It's been a tumultuous three years at the Gore District Council with a heated election in 2022 ending in a close call and New Zealand's youngest ever mayor; a fallout between the new mayor and long-serving chief executive; scandal; division; and murmurs of central government intervention. But two-and-a-half years on, how is the council and the community faring now? And what does October's election hold? RNZ's Timothy Brown reports."The first year was a shambles. It was an absolute shambles - a train wreck."Former Gore mayor Tracy Hicks doesn't mince his words in assessing the reign of his successor.Hicks, a six-term incumbent, lost the mayoralty to then-23-year-old Ben Bell by only eight votes in October 2022.Gore Mayor Ben Bell. Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnonAbout 100 voting papers were left blank and more than 4300 eligible voters did not even bother.The tight contest followed an election campaign described by one veteran councillor as the ugliest he had witnessed.There were nasty rumours about salacious photos and Bell's sexuality, with mud slung at the opposing candidate by both camps.Following his election, Bell and then-chief executive Stephen Parry shared a fractious relationship which left the men unable to communicate without an intermediary.An aborted vote of no confidence in Bell followed, as did petitions calling on Parry to resign, failed mediation, and ultimately Parry's resignation and a new chief executive being appointed.RNZ has attempted to speak to the key players of the past three years and everyday Gore residents.Numerous attempts have been made to interview Bell about his first-term - even travelling to Gore to meet with him.However, on the morning of the agreed interview, Bell pulled out at short notice; was unable or unwilling to re-schedule; and has not responded to subsequent efforts to make contact.Parry told RNZ he has no interest in being interviewed on the situation either, saying: "I am enjoying a private life".Former Gore mayor Tracy Hicks was a six-term incumbent. Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnonBut Hicks and deputy mayor Keith Hovell have been happy to talk.Hicks gives the current council a low four-out-of-ten for its performance under Bell."You've got to give credit to a number of the individuals around the council table who have done sterling work and never been appreciated for it - in my view anyway - but there are a number that I wouldn't give much credit," he says.Without stating it explicitly, it seems Bell is not one of those whom he credits."I'm not sure - what's he achieved?" Hicks says."I've been thinking about that today - what has he achieved? I struggled to find anything concrete to point to and I guess I'm not surprised at that, because he came completely fresh to the scene and, like it or not, local government is quite a different beast and it's not a beast that moves quickly."So I do feel sorry for him and the fact that you can't make the changes you want quickly, but he promised changes and he promised a number of things along the way that - if I'm wrong, I'm wrong - but I don't see those changes happening."Hicks says if he had won a seventh term, the council would have been more functional and could have avoided reputational damage.Under Bell's watch, rates have risen an average of 11 percent in 2023, 21 percent last year and 8.8 percent this year.It is well in excess of the 5.9 percent, 8.2 percent and 5 percent for the three years prior, however, it is hardly Bell's fault alone and he even opposed the extent of this year's hike.But Hicks says despite escalating rates hikes, the council is still spending far more than it brings in."Just looking at what the costs of the council have been over the last three years, they're extraordinary," he says."That really worries me because ... it's something like a 59 percent increase in costs, not in rates, but in costs. In my time I don't know of that ever happening here or anywhere. I think that is a really telling statistic on how the council is functioning."But deputy mayor Keith Hovell, who is stepping aside from local politics after October's elections, does not shy away from the rates rises."We did what needed to be done to secure the financial stability of the council moving forward. And I would hope that the electorate recognises that," he tells RNZ.Deputy mayor Keith Hovell is stepping aside from local politics after October's elections. Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnonHovell was thrust into the role of deputy mayor after a majority of councillors called for Bell's first choice, Stewart MacDonnell, to step down.The retiring councillor defends the efforts of the council this term."There have been issues at a governance level and we've worked those through, but there are also some underlying issues that feed into that. As councillors, we believe that we were acting in the best interest of the community with what we've done over the last three years and particularly during that first six months," he says."We were seen as the bad guys, but we believe we were acting in the best interests of the situation that we faced at the time."Hovell has a "clear conscience" after his time around the council table and he says he looks back on his achievements positively."I think when you look at what we have managed to achieve over the whole three years, and setting aside the slow start that we had, the advances that we've made in the last two years in particular, I think are serving the community extremely well," he says.Hovell has often been at the frontline of ructions this term.He was instrumental in the call for Bell to step down as mayor, as well as the aborted no-confidence vote and in blocking the petitions calling for Parry's resignation."I guess I'd sum it up that I retired and retirement's about doing the things you want to do and I am - but not necessarily the way I want to do them all the time," Hovell says."We went through our initial period and have found a way forward. So we're working together professionally doing what we need to be doing."So what does he make of Bell's leadership?"Ben does bring a particular skillset, particularly what we're working through at present with the three waters. So from his technical background, he's not only able to provide the leadership that's necessary from a mayor, but also some technical input," Hovell says.But after previously leading a mutiny against the young mayor, does Bell now have his support?"The mayor has my confidence to do the job that we all need to do to see us through over the next four or five months."There is a sense among those in Gore, regardless of where they sit in the district's political spectrum, that time has been lost this term.Bell stood at the 2022 elections as part of the Team Hokonui alliance of candidates.In addition to Bell winning the mayoralty, Team Hokonui council candidates Robert McKenzie and Joe Stringer were elected on a promise of change.McKenzie tells RNZ there has been no discussion of resurrecting the group, though he intends to stand for a second term."I'm definitely standing and I fully support our young mayor Ben Bell," McKenzie says."I'm definitely standing because there's work to be done. We wasted the first 18 months on political bullshit."Bell also seems to have the backing of his community.Ratepayers and residents who spoke to RNZ outlined a litany of grievances with the council and the work it is doing, but are supportive of Bell and believe he is trying to do the right thing by ratepayers.While in no way a scientific measure of sentiment, those who spoke to RNZ rated Bell's performance between six and eight out of ten, with all unanimously saying fresh blood is good for the council and they are likely or certain to give Bell a vote for a second term - even those who admitted to not voting for him at the last election.Bell has publicly committed to seeking a second term and others are already putting their hand up to run.It is possible a familiar face will be among them."A month ago I would have said no, and I haven't made a decision, but I have been quite surprised at the number of people that have approached me," Tracy Hicks says."I'm fearful of where this community's heading, particularly on the fiscal front and I'm very mindful of what has been gained over the years - over almost a century and a half - developing this as a stunning community ... I think there's a lot to make sure that we don't lose."Hicks says his future is in Gore, but he is not convinced that is true for Bell."I guess I'd been there a long time - 18 years - you can see why people wanted a change, I don't blame them for that," Hicks says."But I'm not sure change has delivered anything better. In fact, I think ... it put us back."In saying that I hold no grudges against Ben. He's a young guy who was out to make his name and make a profile for himself, and he's done that. So good on him for that. Is his long-time future representing Gore district or the Gore community or the eastern Southland community? I'm not sure about that."Published by permission

Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel wrapped up fourth spot on the points table after posting a closely-fought 61-55 win over Go Media Stars in Invercargill on Monday.Both teams were out to finish the season on a positive note, the Steel looking to get over the disappointment of narrowly missing out on the Finals Series while the Stars have not had luck on their side in an injury-ravaged campaign.Despite nothing riding on the final match of the regular season, with both sides already out of Finals Series contention, there was no lack of desire from either side, the Steel holding the edge in the second half to clinch the spoils on the back of a solid season.Closely contested throughout, the Steel held a two-goal advantage coming into the final quarter during which they took control and shut down any chance of a Stars comeback.Key targets at both ends, Aliyah Dunn for the Steel and the Stars Maia Wilson, did all that was asked of them from the goal shoot positions with Dunn nailing 42 from 43 and Wilson 44/45.In the end, the Steel won the moments that mattered while having slightly the better of the possession stakes.The Stars competed gamely but just lacked the consistency to keep the Steel under the pump.Both sides made solid and effective starts with the Steel managing to nose in front on the back of pacey and accurate attacking play which was expertly finished by shooters Dunn and Georgia Heffernan.The Stars also gained traction from the long game to bring the contest back to level terms.Defensive pressure from Carys Stythe and Abby Lawson created turnover opportunities for the home side in the Stars attacking zone, ultimately iced by a super shot from Georgia Heffernan to push the Steel out to a 14-10 lead at the first break.With defenders Lili Tokaduadua and Remi Kamo getting their hands to intercept opportunities on the resumption, the Stars clicked into gear.Converting their extra ball opportunities, the confidence levels lifted from the visitors.That resulted in finding their flow, speed and accuracy on attack where the movement of captain Wilson opened the space under the hoop with the ball landing perfectly via Mila Reuelu-Buchanan and Lisa Mather.Starting with an 8-4 run against them, the Steel took a tactical time out before the Stars nudged into narrow lead, the last five minutes of the second stanza going goal-for-goal and ending in a 28-all stalemate at the main break.The Steel turned the tables during a high-scoring and entertaining third quarter. The home side needed no second invitation when pouncing on a couple of early lapses in the Stars scoring zone.The response was rapid and highly accurate through-court play where Kate Heffernan and Kimiora Poi worked the ball expertly to set up the shooting duo of Georgia Heffernan and Dunn.The shooters worked seamlessly in tandem, Heffernan sharing the load while Dunn continued her strong season with an impressive showing.The Stars hung on admirably, with midcourter Reuelu-Buchanan and Kate Heffernan having a mighty tussle while Wilson ended the stanza in style when sinking a super shot to narrow the Steel’s lead to 45-43 at the last break, leaving the game wide open.

The country's water regulator says a Southland councillor who refuses to boil his tap water could be risking his health.However, councillor Derek Chamberlain is standing by his decision to ignore a local boil water notice despite criticism from Taumata Arowai.Southland district councillor Derek Chamberlain says there is nothing wrong with the water coming out of his tap. Credit: Supplied.Chamberlain made headlines this week for saying he would sooner drink from his compromised Eastern Bush/Otahu Flat network than have Auckland water.[www.odt.co.nz/southland/%E2%80%98nothing-wrong-it%E2%80%99-southland-councillor-water-under-boil-notice]The district councillor lives on one of 54 properties in rural Southland which has been under a boil notice since July 2024.Taumata Arowai head of operations Steve Taylor said Chamberlain’s decision to ignore the notice was not safe, even though he was using a filter.There were a range of factors affecting a filter’s ability to remove microorganisms including type, pore size, and whether it was used in conjunction with other treatments like boiling or UV, Taylor said.“Your councillor may feel that their water is fine to drink, but they may be risking their health.”One of the main issues affecting the Eastern Bush/Otahu Flat supply was turbidity — or cloudiness — which became worse when rain dirtied the Wairaki River.Taylor said high turbidity impacted treatment and indicated a higher risk of protozoa, which the supply did not have a barrier to protect against.Even if the water was visibly clear, it could still contain pathogens which could lead to serious illness, he warned.In response, Chamberlain issued the regulator a challenge“If they’re that concerned about it, why don’t they come down and do something about it?” he said.“My argument’s at Wellington. I mean it’s alright for them sitting up there bloody making all the rules, someone’s got to pay for it.”The boil notice was issued in July 2024 and could be in place until as late as 2027 when the treatment plant is upgraded.On Monday, the council issued a reminder to residents that boiling was still necessary.The notice is the only active one across the entire region.LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air

Southland became host to the Green Party on Saturday (12 Jul) when members of the Deep South Tauraka Waiwai Green Party, including MPs Lan Pham, Scott Willis and Francisco Hernandez, visited Riverton for their annual general meeting and a hui.Items on the agenda included the need for support and livelihoods for rural communities, the Dunedin Regional Hospital, clean energy, fresh water protections, the impact of the government’s Fast Track approvals regime on the environment, and the government’s move to break up the Polytech collective - Te Pukenga.Environment Southland Councillor Robert Guyton and Green Party MP Lan Pham discussing water issues at a Green Party local hui, following the group's AGM. Photo: SuppliedGreen MP Scott Willis told the Southland App that one of the big issues in our region was the lack of support and sustainable industries for rural communities."Our recently released Green Budget has a detailed plan for sustainable jobs based around clean energy and this includes reinvigorating of the Jobs for Nature programme.""This was a Greens-initiative that the previous Government took up, resulting in jobs in areas such as the Wilding Conifer Management Strategy," Willis said."The current Government has pulled the pin on that, along with the jobs that were part of it.""Letting wilding pines run rampant again makes no sense," he said.Willis said the Greens also have a plan to prioritise sustainable industries that would allow rural communities to thrive while also addressing the energy hardship that many households faced, with renewable energy playing a core role.“We also recognise that people of our region have been crying out for a new hospital for years, and we've had enough of a Government that makes promises about it and then breaks them time and again, trying to fob us off with half-pie solutions.""Our party has committed to working towards a full spec hospital for the deep South, and we have made provision for these plans in the Green Budget,” he said.

Road OpenNo Avalanche HazardComments:Brief snow expected tuesday afternoon near the tunnel , not expected to cause delays.  Weather forecast for the Homer Tunnel area:Today: Rain developing, light snow possible near tunnel Tomorrow: Fine Thursday: Showers Friday: Periods of rain Saturday: Showers clearing

The public has three weeks to come up with ideas to enhance and retain Te Anau’s much-loved Bird Sanctuary with its future up in the air, and while the prized takahe will likely stay, DOC can’t confirm yet that the other birds will.A collaborative call for feedback was launched today (14 July) by the relevant agencies with submissions closing on 3 August.There’s been great concern in the Te Anau community that the birds, including Te Anau’s prized takahē – a local icon, may be moved elsewhere and out of the park with DOC opting out of the park’s management.Te Anau's popular Bird Sanctuary has suffered from a lack of direction and investment. In February 2025 DOC announced it was withdrawing its management of the facility and would be actively exploring alternatives. Photo: Southland AppA number of individual community interests have been exploring ways for locals to take over the operation, including the possibility of setting up trusts.DOC acting operations manager Te Anau Elicia Milne says, “at this stage there are no plans to rehome the takahē pairs at Te Anau Bird Sanctuary”, although details for any management transition are yet to be finalised.There are currently 16 birds at the park - four pāteke/brown teal, two kōwhiowhio/whio, four Antipodes Island kākāriki and six South Island takahē, two of which are chicks.Asked whether DOC was considering moving any other of the species out of the park, she said she couldn’t confirm that, or anything else, because “the transitional model” had not yet been confirmed.Once that was confirmed DOC would share the plans for the other birds with the wider community.“There’s still some thinking on that and working through within DOC what our next steps are, but we will communicate that within the coming weeks or next few months, before the next breeding season,” Milne says.She could not share anything else at this stage.“Any future transition will be managed with the wellbeing of birds, staff and Te Anau Bird Sanctuary/Te Punanga Manu o Te Anau’s future in mind,” she says.At this stage DOC is supporting Ōraka Aparima, Great South and Fish and Game with technical advice for managing any captive species and with their scoping work. This Kākāriki (Antipodes Island Parakeet) calls the Te Anau sanctuary home. Photo: Chris Watson/ProfocusThere’s already been an overwhelmingly positive response to today’s call for ideas for the future of the park from manu whenua, key agencies and the community, Great South facilitating that process.The united regional effort is exploring opportunities to make the park viable on its present site.DOC, site owners Southland Fish and Game, iwi Ōraka Aparima Rūnaka and Great South have asked anyone interested to share their thoughts on what the future of this site could look like.People are encouraged to fill out a feedback form on Great South’s website – www.greatsouth.co.nzKen Brown, of the local Save Our Sanctuary group, says while he’s pleased there’s now a transparent process underway and a coordinated approach, the main concern has been that DOC may be trying to move some of the birds out the park.“That would be disastrous.""If the other birds are moved it will be impossible to build up the park as a sanctuary moving forward.”His group is keen to bring all the different agencies and local interest groups together to work on the best options moving forward.He says there are several individual groups working on proposals, such as setting up various trusts to save the park and its birds.Kōwhiowhio (Whio / Blue Duck) can be seen at the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary. Photo: Chris Watson/Profocus“We’re hoping to pull a meeting together of all those interested,” he says.Their response would then be handed to local iwi during the submission and feedback process.“We’re happy though that things are moving in the right direction,” Brown says.Great South General Manager of Regional Strategy Bobbi Brown says her phone was already running hot within a short time of the news being announced on social media today (14 July), with three very good submissions arriving in too.“I’m absolutely happy with this process and the early response has just reinforced that the local community needs to be included in any plans.""It’s reinforced the depth of feeling and that it’s a topic that everybody cares about,” she says.“People want to know more and this way there will be balance.”It’s vital that the community get to put their ideas forward, she says.“I can guarantee that your feedback and ideas will get in front of the people that control the outcome.”The jewel in the crown - Takahē, can be seen by visitors all year round at the sanctuary. Photo: Chris Watson/ProfocusThere seemed to be a positivity and excitement coming through on options for the park’s future.“Everyone loves it. It’s such a valuable taonga, and some people see potential for what it can become in the future, opportunities to make it even better.”She’s expecting lots of quality submissions and feedback and she’d been encouraged already by ideas shared by those calling her, including local businesses, all emphasising the importance of the park as a local tourism gem.“I’m really pleased that people are thinking outside the square,” Brown says.Fiordland Community Board chairperson Diane Holmes says she’s relieved to see there’s a promising future for the park and that key players are interested in making it a sustainable operation.She was also pleased to see some public communication, “as in the absence of that people fill in the gaps with other scenarios”.Ōraka Aparima Rūnaka deputy chairperson, Sue Crengle says the joint call is “an important step toward a future that would be shaped by values of kaitiakitanga and community connection”.“Te Punanga Manu is a taonga – a treasure for our people and our region,” she says.“This is an opportunity to reset and reshape what it can be for future generations.""We’re looking forward to hearing from the community and working in partnership with others to realise that vision.”The Te Anau bird sanctuary is located within sight of the Murchison Mountains, the 1948 rediscovery location of Fiordland's takahē. Photo: Chris Watson/ProfocusThe insights gathered will be shared with Ōraka Aparima Rūnaka and Fish and Game New Zealand with technical advice provided from DOC.The group says the next steps will be made available publicly around the end of August, early September.The Feedback Form is available here or via Great South’s website www.greatsouth.nzFor further information or questions contact: Bobbi Brown at Great South E: [email protected] M: +64 21 241 7506.Sue Fea is a senior journalist with more than 40-years experience covering police, social and general news in the southern regions.

The Southern Institute of Technology (SIT), including Telford campus, is one of ten institutes around the country to have regional decision-making restored from next year, Vocational Education Minister, Invercargill MP and former SIT chief executive Penny Simmonds said today (14 Jul).SIT lost its local governance on 1st November 2022, when the then Labour government controversially amalgamated it as a division of the new Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology.“Labour dismantled regionally-led vocational education – and now we are restoring it,” said Simmonds said.“This is all about returning SIT to the people of Southland – to the students, the local businesses and the Southern industries who rely on and support our local polytechnic."“It’s a great day for our city, and our province, with this return to regional decision-making bolstering strong economic growth across the Southland province."“Locally led, regionally responsive, and future focused vocational education is at the heart of what will become this region’s on-going success story."“If we are to grow our economy, provide Southland businesses with the staff that they need to expand, and ensure that SIT graduates secure the employment that they deserve, then locally-led decision making is the way of the future."Simmonds said they had listened to extensive industry feedback and was confident the plan will set up the vocational education secto, both in the South and New Zealand, for long term economic growth and learning success.SIT Operations Lead Daryl Haggerty said the community was strongly supportive of SIT’s goal to regain its autonomy, and had expressed it through written submissions, attending meetings and voicing their preference for an independent SIT during the VET consultation phase.“The shift to autonomy is a momentous step forward,” Haggerty said.“We’re thrilled to regain our independence, and we know our community and industries will welcome this announcement as much as we do.""This milestone recognises the high quality of our institute and our staff, the dedication of our learners, and the strength of our links with our community, industry and iwi.”Being independent will enable SIT to provide more opportunities to students, break down barriers, and deliver easier access to tertiary education through SIT’s iconic Zero Fees Scheme, its visionary HyFlex delivery mode, and its well-recognised, successful online SIT2LRN programmes.“We now have greater flexibility to innovate, respond more directly to local needs, and preserve the unique identity that makes SIT so special,” he said.The institute was also planning a campaign to strengthen its international partnerships and attract more overseas students to Southland to study at SIT and support the local workforce as skilled graduates.The ten polytechnics returning to regional governance are the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT), Ara Institute of Canterbury (Ara), Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT), Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT), Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology, Waikato Institute of Technology (Wintec), Unitec Institute of Technology (Unitec) and Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT), which will stand up as a single entity, Otago Polytechnic, Universal College of Learning (UCOL) and The Open Polytechnic of New Zealand.

A Southland district councillor living under a boil water notice says he’s not bothering with it because "there’s nothing wrong" with what's coming out of the tap.But the council behind the notice has issued a fresh reminder to residents that the water must be boiled before consumption.Local Democracy Reporting put questions to Southland’s three territorial authorities asking how many boil water notices were currently in place.The answer was just one — in the Southland District Council administered area of Eastern Bush/Otahu Flat, north of Tūātapere.Councillor Derek Chamberlain lives in one of the 54 properties affected, but says he still drinks the water without boiling it first.“I’d sooner drink our water than bloody Auckland water. There’s nothing wrong with it,” he said.Southland district councillor Derek Chamberlain is living under a boil water notice but is none too concerned. Credit: SuppliedA key factor was the turbidity — or cloudiness — of water coming out of the Wairaki River, which Chamberlain said was originally a supply for livestock that people had later tapped into.The river became dirty when it rained, and the council was not able to effectively filter the water due to hardware issues.Chamberlain testified that discolouration was a factor but said there was no issue with the water which he ran through a filter.“People aren’t getting sick or dying or anything in Eastern Bush, I can assure you.”The notice was issued just over a year ago on 11 July 2024 and will likely remain in place until 2026 or 2027 when the treatment plant is upgraded.On Monday, the council reminded residents on social media that the notice remained in place because of potential contamination from flood water.That meant there was a risk of disease-causing bacteria, protozoa, and other contaminants.Water “must be boiled” for drinking, preparing food and personal use such as brushing teeth, it said.The notice is an outlier in the region.Gore District Council had not issued one since the September 2023 flood event, which it did out of precaution.Invercargill City Council had no record of a notice being issued in recent decades.LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air

Two updates below to the work happening on Southland state highways this week: Southbound closure on SH1 Clyde St on Wednesday 16th July for surfacing repairs:Light vehicles detour via Earn/Nith streetsHeavy vehicles coming from the Bond St bypass detour via Clyde St (northbound direction)/Crinan Street/Nith St This work will take place from 9am-7pm on Wednesday 16th July (rain date 17th July) Stop/stop traffic management on SH1 Edendale-Woodlands highway near Homestead Road on Wednesday 16th July. Stop/stop traffic management will be in place during the day for hedge removal and rock work, expect delays.

Te Anau is kicking goals both on and off the field, with junior football enjoying a major revival thanks to strong community and volunteer support, and the backing of Southland Football.Junior numbers have more than tripled in recent years, and for the first time in ten years Te Anau is fielding teams in the junior Southland-wide competition.The increase in interest is in part attributed to local volunteers running, for more than 10-years, winter football sessions at the school focusing on skill development, friendly games, fun and development.Te Anau Football Club coordinator Stef Braaksma said there had been massive support for the club over the last three years with numbers rising from 30-40 kids to now around 120.The players are thriving with regular competition, skills are improving and they are genuinely enjoying the game.“Over the last two years we entered teams in the Old Boys Junior Football Festival in Invercargill."Te Anau v's Thistle game on Saturday (12 Jul). Photo: Supplied"The kids loved it and competed really well and we just thought why not get them involved in the Southland-wide competition,” she said.This season Te Anau has two 11th grade and one 14th grade team in the competition and they’re backed by strong volunteer and parent support.There’s already talk of up to five junior teams for next year’s competition, and the process to formalise the club is on the cards.Southland Football had been eager to support the growth of the game in Te Anau and had allowed two home games a month in an effort to limit their travel to every second week.Football Development Officer Ryan Gardiner said it was fantastic having Te Anau teams in the competition.“It creates a wider range of opposition in Southland for our junior players,” he said.“Within Southland there is often lots of travel involved in community sport, but it’s great to see all clubs willing to travel to Te Anau to play football.”Football Southland Development and Operations Manager Iain Walker said the Junior Committee was supportive from day one and had looked at various ways in which they could support, with member clubs ultimately suggested the bi-weekly travel model."We have a very positive, solutions-based committee - this puts us in a very healthy position and is another reason why we are experiencing growth in our game.”“I watched the Under 14 team play recently at Waikiwi Domain in Invercargill and can say firsthand that they are definitely enjoying the experience.”Funders including the Fiordland Community Board and the Kepler Challenge Mountain Run Trust have made it possible for the Te Anau club to host official matches by supporting the purchase of proper goals and other equipment.

Three men have been rescued following a boat capsize near Howells Point, Riverton, yesterday afternoon (14 Jul).The men, believed to have been fishing in a small home-built ply-over-wood boat, were returning to shore when the incident took place.Riverton Coastguard president Ross McKenzie said they dispatched the 8.5m Russell John Chisholm just after 5pm after being alerted by both members of the public and the National Rescue Centre."One swam to shore while the other two were picked up by Russell Rescue.""They had an EPIRB, a VHS radio, and were wearing lifejackets," he said.Mckenzie estimated the men had been in the water for 20 minutes before being rescued.McKenzie praised members of Riverton Coastguard saying they had done really well getting out there so fast.Environment Southland Harbourmaster Lyndon Cleaver said the Environment Southland maritime team had now visited the scene (14 Jul) and had located the boat.Attempts are being made by Riverton Coastguard to tow the boat to a more secure location and out of the shipping channel, he said.The boat was powered by two outboard motors, and there is no sign of any oil spill.

On Friday, 27th June, we said farewell to someone who has not just led Hedgehope School but has been the heartbeat of it. Sue Rogers has been the Principal of Hedgehope for 8.5 years and has built a culture that’s vibrant, caring, and brave.Whaeā Sue is a leader with boundless energy, big dreams, and ideas so wild they somehow always worked. Sue planted seeds of greatness here. And they will keep growing long after she has gone. We’ll miss you.Thank you to the MAARD chefs and Wendy for catering the delicious MidWinter Feast, Kate for her kind words, current students for their caring speeches, and to all the Hedgehope students and staff for their passionate haka and waiata.Farewell to Sue Rogers with flowers and midwinter feast for all. Photo: Supplied.On Wednesday, 25th June, families braved the darkness and cold sea temperatures to collect toheroa from Oreti Beach for our Mid-Winter Christmas/Farewell Whaeā Sue dinner.It was a great experience! Randomly, it was 3 years ago to the very day that these shellfish were harvested for a Matariki feast in the Hedgehope Hall. Collecting toheroa from Oreti Beach. Photo: Supplied.Two of our Enviro Leaders and two members of our MAARD cheffing team were invited to a Sustainable Kai Day at Rock Hut on Mt Linton Station earlier this month.Students went target shooting, butchered deer and wild pork, competed in orienteering, built campfires, cooked pancakes and made connections with like-minded peers..Hedgehope School proudly sponsored by Winton & District Funeral ServicesThe Hedgehope students REACHed for Greatness and are inspired to embed some of these learnings at our school. A huge thanks to Active Southland, Matt Middlemass and Michelle from Takitium Area School for hosting a great day of rich learning. Sustainable Kai Day at Rock Hut on Mt Linton Station. Photo: Supplied.Thanks to Josh at Environment Southland, we have been able to access an Enviro Schools Action Fund. These funds will help us manage the vegetable garden and hothouse, upgrade the chicken coop area, create more structures in the nursery to protect our nursery stocks, and hang gates in the garden.We wish for the students to become kaitaiki and take ownership of this space.The vision is to create a space which will draw the children into graze on their choice of vegetable/fruit/berries. If you are keen on any native plants from our nursery, please get in touch.Students learning to become kaitaiki and take ownership of thier space. Photo: Supplied.

Road OpenNo Avalanche HazardComments:Brief snow expected tuesday morning near the tunnel , not expected to cause delays.  Weather forecast for the Homer Tunnel area:Today: Showers clearing in evening Tomorrow: Brief snow in morning Wednesday: Fine Thursday: Rain developing Friday: Periods of rain

Southland Police are seriously concerned about an alarming increase in young drink drivers, one a 17-year-old driver who allegedly blew a whopping 1097mcg after leaving a local rugby last weekend.Acting Inspector Mel Robertson says the marked spike in drink driving offences among young drivers under 20 throughout the province is extremely concerning with three high readings just last weekend (5 and 6 July) alone highlighting the severity of the issue.Drivers under 20 have a zero-alcohol limit.An 18-year-old-driver, stopped shortly after leaving a licensed venue, allegedly blew 817mcg and another teenage driver allegedly blew 576mcg on a rural road near Waikaka, she says.“These figures are well over the legal limit for any driver over the age of 20, but it’s even more alarming that these young drivers have a zero-alcohol limit while driving, showing a dangerous disregard for road safety,” Robertson says.Western Southland Road Policing Supervisor Sergeant Dave Leach, of Te Anau, says he was also charging a 19-year-old Lumsden man with allegedly driving five times over the legal youth limit, twice the adult alcohol limit, at 800mcgs.He says considering it’s illegal for youth under 20 to drive having had any alcohol at all – a zero limit, that level was “through the roof”.Police regularly catch drivers in their late teens – 17, 18 and 19 drink driving in rural areas.Anyone under 20 caught driving with 200mcg of alcohol per litre of breath was heading straight for court, while those under that level received an instant $200 fine and 200 D-merit points.“It’s pretty clear cut. If you’re under 20 and you’ve even just had one beer, you can’t drive,” Leach says. Young drivers are taking risks and driving home. “Make plans to get home or arrange a sober driver.”Robertson says there’s been “a troubling upward trend in excess breath alcohol offences, particularly among drivers under 20” during the last few months.Police have increased proactive patrols and enforcement efforts across the district with support from Impairment Prevention Teams and further operations are planned for the Eastern Area in particular.“We’re doing everything we can, boots on the ground, education in clubs, regular messaging through local radio, to get the message across, Eastern Southland Area Response Manager Senior Sergeant Gary Iddenten says.“But it’s frustrating when it feels like it’s going in one ear and out the other.“We’re urging people to think ahead, plan their nights, and make smart decisions. One poor choice can have devastating consequences, not just for the driver, but for everyone on the road.”Overseas Drivers Speeding To Milford Clock up to 156km/hrMeanwhile, Western Southland Police continue to regularly catch drivers clocking excessively high speeds, especially in the Lowther area near Five Rivers.Leach says the last person he caught speeding this week clocked 96km/hr in a 50km/hr zone at Mossburn.“They’re mostly overseas visitors rushing to catch boat cruises in Fiordland, four caught recently with speeds ranging from 146km/hr to 156km/hr,” he says.“They’re often rushing to get to a boat cruise and feel pressured because of what their GPS is telling them. Naturally they want to speed up,” Leach says.“If they didn’t have GPS, they wouldn’t be in tune with how late they were.”Black Ice Warnings – Slow DownAll this in mid-winter with black ice crashes happening around the south and warnings for drivers to slow down.Leach says there have been several crashes in which black ice has been a factor, fortunately nobody was injured.One was by The Key where a motorist slid off the bridge and down to the water table coming to rest in the grass.“Bridges are always high risk for black ice, so people need to slow down and be cautious,” he says.Police around the region say people should expect loose grit, ice or black ice at the time of year with some heavy frosts.They say icy roads are “unforgiving, especially in the south”, which has some of the most intense winter conditions in the country.Drivers are being urged to drive to the conditions, slow down and check their speed, wear seatbelts, make sure they’re well-rested and take regular breaks.Anyone wanting to look at the scenery should pull over in a safe area or designated rest stop.Aggravated robberies - Enquiries continuingEnquiries are still continuing into the two aggravated robberies in Invercargill last Saturday morning, however, Southern District Police Area Investigations Manager Sean Carins says they’re not seeking anybody else in relation to these.A young person appeared in the Youth Court this week after being arrested in relation to the robberies that occurred at around 6am in commercial premises in Tay and Dee Streets. Cairns says Police are very grateful to the members of the public who assisted them with information in relation to these.Police CBD Holiday Clampdown Deters DisorderA Police clampdown on unruly and disorderly behaviour in Invercargill’s CBD this school holidays produced the desired result with “overwhelmingly positive feedback” from both local retailers and members of the public.“As the school holiday period concludes, we’re happy to report a highly successful and positive fortnight within the Invercargill CBD,” Robertson says.Police ran increased patrols throughout the two-week break and reports of disorder were minimal.“The city centre, as well as popular gathering areas for youth, remained vibrant and well managed,” she says.Police want to commend those in the community for their “cooperation and commendable behaviour”, which contributed to a safe and enjoyable environment for all.Sue Fea is a senior journalist with more than 40-years experience covering police, social and general news in the southern regions.

Morning all, a map of sites where you may experience delays on Southland state highways due to maintenance or third-party contractor work can be found here, and these sites are listed below.   **SH1/Clyde St Invercargill closure:Due to resurfacing repairs, there is likely to be a southbound closure of Clyde Street in Invercargill between Balmoral Drive and Grace St on Wednesday 16th and Thursday 17th with a detour for all traffic. Detour route confirmed Monday 14th. Highways South work with temporary speed limits this week:SH1 Clyde St from Nith St to Grace St, southbound closure, detour (as above)SH1 Clyde St from Tay St to Eye St, lane dropIntersection of SH94/SH97 in Mossburn, stop/go Third party work and events with traffic management in place this week:SH1 Gore Mataura Highway between Racecourse Road and Saleyards Road, stop/goSH1 Gore Mataura Highway between Falconer Road and Racecourse Road, stop/goSH1 Gore Main St, between Mersey Street and Medway Street, northbound closure between Mersey and Medway Streets.  Northbound detour via Mersey St east - River St - SH1 Southbound unaffected. Closure from 9pm for less than an hour, Thursday 17th July. Useful 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.

It is quite literally going to take some magic for the Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel to keep its 2025 ANZ Premiership season alive.Perhaps one of the worst feelings in sport, the Steel’s future lies firmly in the hands of one it its rivals, the Avis Magic.It’s a simple scenario. If the Magic beat the Te Wānanga o Raukawa Pulse on Saturday, the Steel can cement a place in the playoffs with a win over the Go Media Stars at ILT Stadium Southland on Monday night. Alternatively, if the Pulse win or get a bonus point by finishing within five goals, the Steel’s campaign effectively grinds to a halt. Not being in control of their own destiny doesn’t sit well with head coach Wendy Frew but you won’t hear any excuses.“We probably wish we had another round to be honest. We lost a couple of games on the trot earlier in the season and that’s really affected us now on the table,” she said.“We’ve done that to ourselves with some of our performances. There’s a couple of games where we could have hung in there for the bonus point or that Mystics game in Dunedin that we could have taken and got the three points. It just comes down to so many little moments that make such a big difference.“It is all valuable learning. As a player, if you’ve never been in a situation where you’ve missed out on goal differential, or by one win, or by one or two points, those experiences are really important. You build from it and make sure you’re ticking every box in the future to ensure we have the best opportunity to make that top three. “This group of players, and us as coaches, will be a lot better for those learnings going forward in the future.”The Steel hasn’t wavered in its approach to Monday night’s clash. “For us as a team we’re just ensuring we are purely focused on the Stars and putting in a good performance against them. Obviously, we’ll be watching the Magic-Pulse game but really it’s out of our control so we’re just concentrating on bringing the intensity to training and doing all the prep we can do to be ready for the Stars,” Frew said.When it comes time to reflect, she already knows it will evoke immense pride in the team’s progress. “They’ve worked really hard. Even though it was a new coaching group and new players, everything gelled pretty nicely. ‘It’s certainly been an enjoyable season so far watching the players grow on the court with their combinations and the culture we’ve created off the court – it’s been such an enjoyable ride and I hope we get the opportunity to make that top three and push on because I feel like the potential of this team is really huge and I would love to have the chance to play in that top three and see what’s possible.”Scenes of the bench erupting when the Steel beat the Pulse in round seven were a highlight. “I’ve looked back at that moment and watched it quite a few times and that was just pure emotion right there of getting over the line after being down by nine in the last quarter. It was a whole team effort and those girls on court were just true professionals and put everything out there to execute those last 15 minutes so well,” Frew said. “You just can’t script those moments – it was just pure emotion. That’s why we play.” Frew was eager to see a packed house at ILT Stadium.“Nothing beats playing in our Steel fortress with a full crowd of our loyal fans. We need everyone out in force – the noisier the better.”Tickets are on sale from the venue or online at www.southernsteel.co.nz.

Location AreaSH 94 Te Anau to Milford (Homer Tunnel)DirectionBoth DirectionsEvent DescriptionRoad WorksEvent CommentsState Highway 94, Homer Tunnel is open. Maintenance Works are complete. Road users are advised to take extra care along this route.StatusResolved

Road OpenNo Avalanche HazardComments:Normal travel times expected. Very unsettled weather in the foreseeable future with frequent bursts of rain. Snow is mentioned in the forecast for next week.  Weather forecast for the Homer Tunnel area:Today: Rain. Tomorrow: Rain. Sunday: Showers. Monday: Showers turning to rain. Tuesday: Heavy rain, easing.

The family of the New Zealander killed by an elephant in Zambia have told RNZ they are thankful for the support they are receiving as they work to bring their loved one home.Alison Jean Taylor, 67, from Porirua, was attacked by a female elephant on 3 July while walking on a safari in South Luangwa National Park, along with another woman from the UK.Her brother Bill Taylor said the other woman who died was his sister's longtime friend and second cousin Janice Taylor Easton, also known as Janet.Bill Taylor said the family's focus was currently on repatriating his sister and her belongings back to New Zealand.He said they were thankful to the many people who were providing them with assistance during "this difficult process".He said Alison Taylor grew up in Southland and after attending Otago University, spent the majority of her working life in Wellington, where she lived.Alison Taylor was the deputy chair for Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) Porirua.On Wednesday, CAB Porirua said Alison Taylor was "a valued and highly effective volunteer" and would be profoundly missed.Porirua councillor Geoff Hayward said Alison Taylor was a cheerful, compassionate and helpful person."I think of her as an inspiration that we can all do more and be more kind in this world," Hayward said.The two women were near big Lagoon Bush Camp in South Luangwa National Park when the elephant, which was with its calf, charged at them.Shots were fired at the elephant, wounding the animal and ultimately stopping the attack.However, Eastern Province Police commanding officer Robertson Mweemba confirmed both women died at the scene.Two others travelling with the group were uninjured.A farewell is expected to be held for Alison Taylor on 15 August in Wellington.The family were requesting privacy at this time.Published by arrangement