Wildlife is thriving in the Mokomoko Dryland Sanctuary near Alexandra, thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers and their work over the past 10 years.The translocation project of many skinks and geckos since 2018 into the 14ha site has been hugely successful for the Central Otago Ecological Trust.Led by Dr Grant Norbury, a wildlife ecologist who is retiring this week from Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research after 33 years, the sanctuary is also abundant with regenerated native bush and at least 46 species of moth.Seven different species of lizard now live there and the 2m-high fence keeps mammalian pest species out - mice, rats, ferrets, rabbits, hares, cats and hedgehogs.But trustee Anna Yeoman marvels at seeing the Karearea - native falcon, occasionally preying on lizards, as an example of native predation that is naturally occurring onsite.It’s all part of the natural cycle of life. Also, lizards are omnivores and not only munch away on coprosma berries and insects, but the bigger Grand skinks will sometimes eat a smaller cousin, such as the Schist Gecko as well. A Grand Skink munching on a Schist Gecko inside the Mokomoko Dryland Sanctuary. Image: Sam PurdieThere have also been tuatara bones found nearby from years ago, as they too once hunted smaller reptiles.The start of the lizard translocation project goes back well before 2018, when Grant arrived in Central Otago in the 1990s to measure the predator impacts on the local lizard populations.Originally from Australia where he grew up in a Melbourne city suburb and kept birds in an aviary, lizards became the new attraction when he moved to Alexandra.After many years of translocation trials to see which lizard species adapted best to local conditions, the trust raised the $539,000 for the new predator fence. Originally 33 Grand Skinks and 43 Otago Skinks were translocated, followed by 86 Jewelled (green) Geckos. Otago Green Skinks (61) were introduced in 2023.In 2019 Grand and Otago Skinks started having babies, followed by the Jewelled Geckos. At the last count there were 69 baby Grand, 75 baby Otago Skinks and 41 baby Jewelled Geckos.Anna said New Zealand lizards don’t breed ultra fast, and only once a year, but since they have been in the sanctuary, the numbers have started to rapidly climb. The pair head out to the sanctuary every month or so, to check on new babies and to look for mice and make sure none are present. Other volunteers also check the fence line to ensure there are no gaps.Because lizards are not as active when they are cold, they are a prime target for even the most humble field mouse, who can sometimes sneak its way inside the fence.“They are violent predators,” Anna said.Baby lizards recently found at the Mokomoko Dryland Sanctuary. Image: suppliedIn 2018 Grant received a Queens Service Medal for his services to conservation, and last year Anna published a book Geckos & Skinks: The Remarkable Lizards of Aotearoa, which received a Whitley Award for conservation.They are currently carrying out a survey on the three species of ‘common’ lizards that have occupied the land long before the others were introduced.These species - McCanns skinks, Southern Grass skinks and Schist geckos, are thriving in numbers inside the sanctuary, compared to outside in the general landscape.“The numbers doubled in the first five years and have looked to have doubled again since then,” Anna said. The sanctuary has also been used extensively by university staff and students for various studies, such as DNA testing on the lizards to look at their relationship to other species, and their social behaviours in the presence and absence of mammalian predators.“That’s a bonus that we didn’t expect to happen,” Grant said.The 14ha is serving its purpose and the lizards are far from using up all of the space - there are still plenty of schist outcrops that have yet to be explored by the reptiles.“There is still plenty of unoccupied habitat,” Grant said.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

Households in Central Otago are being told to brace for significant power price hikes this winter, despite hydro dams spilling surplus water.Consumer NZ released a warning this week predicting power prices will surge by approximately five per cent across the country in 2026, off the back of a 12 per cent increase last year.It is a move Consumer NZ called "a blow to households".The price warning coincides with heavy summer rainfall that has forced dams like the one in Clyde to spill water - a sight familiar to local commuters."It’s an unfortunate reality that households are being asked to shoulder higher charges to have electricity delivered to their homes," Powerswitch manager Paul Fuge said."But at the same time, heavy rainfall over summer - so extensive that major hydro lakes are spilling water - has driven down wholesale electricity prices.“Those lower generation costs should be easing the pressure on consumers by offsetting these rising lines charges. That doesn't seem to be happening. And that’s deeply unfair."Industry body ERGANZ, which represents electricity providers, defended the current pricing structure, arguing investment in the poles and wires delivering power was the primary driver of upward price pressure.“Those rising network costs may be passed through in some bills by some electricity retailers,” the ERGANZ spokesperson said.They said while generators may release water for "safe limits" and flood control, these wholesale swings do not hit bills immediately."Households do not pay the wholesale spot price directly," the ERGANZ spokesperson said."Electricity generator-retailers manage supply and set prices over the long term, which helps keep household bills more stable when wholesale prices swing."Consumer NZ research found last winter, one in five New Zealanders went to bed early to stay warm, and one-quarter went without heating."Based on our price predictions for 2026, we think the situation will only get worse," Paul said.Local lines provider Aurora Energy confirmed its new prices will take effect from April 1, with the exact figures to be published on February 25.Aurora chief executive Richard Fletcher said the company’s charges reflect "continued investment across our network to increase capacity and resilience".Aurora is in a unique position compared to other lines companies because it is currently finishing a five-year "customised price path" for its investment plan, which ends on March 31."While other lines companies saw a larger price increase last year as part of the adjustment, our changes are taking effect this year," Richard said.He said the company’s charges reflected the need to increase network capacity as more households electrify - switching to electric heating and vehicles - as well as the cost of connecting new customers and repairing old infrastructure."We understand price increases are challenging for many people in the communities we serve, and transparency about what’s driving these changes is vital," he said.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

Tourist arrivals topped 3.5 million for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic, driven by a surge in Australian visitors.Stats NZ numbers showed overseas visitor arrivals hit 3.51 million in the year ended December 2025, up 6 percent from the prior year.The agency said it was the first annual period to exceed 3.5 million since the year ended March 2020.However, total annual visitor arrivals were 90 percent of 2019 levels, before the Covid pandemic began globally.It said Australia was the biggest source of visitors, up 10 percent from 2024, followed by the United States and China.More than 1.5 million tourist arrivals were from Australia in 2025, followed by 385,000 from the United States, and 262,000 from China."Holidaymakers were the main driver of the annual increase in overseas visitor arrivals in 2025 from 2024, followed by those visiting friends or relatives," Stats NZ international travel spokesperson Bryan Downes said.Visiting friends or relatives was the second most common reason for travel, Stats NZ said."The increase in overseas visitors to New Zealand in 2025 coincided with a 4 percent increase in flights into the country compared with 2024," Downes said.The country's two main international airports both reported additional seasonal flights for the peak summer period for tourism in New Zealand.Auckland Airport, the main gateway for overseas visitors, said in December that international capacity for the 2025/26 summer was up nearly 4 percent (207,000 seats) on the 2024/25 period.Christchurch Airport said in November it expected a record summer season in 2025/26, with international capacity up 15 percent on the prior year.

After years of stalled discussion, the future of the Cromwell Mall is back before Central Otago District Council, with attention turning to land the council already owns. At a workshop on Wednesday (February 11), councillors and Cromwell Community Board members discussed early direction for the Cromwell town centre, beginning what staff said would be a six to seven-month process.The aim is to develop options that could be consulted on as part of the 2027–2037 Long Term Plan.Much of the discussion focused on whether the existing mall, now more than 40 years old, remained fit for purpose.Councillor Stu Duncan questioned the value of reinvesting in the current structure.“Cabbage boiled twice is never any good,” Stu said.“Why try to redevelop the mall when it didn’t work in the first place?”Cromwell Community Board chair Anna Harrison said any future development needed to give people a reason to stop in Cromwell rather than pass through.“How do you pull people off that highway to come in and realise that Cromwell has got something more to offer than having your photo taken at the big fruit?” Anna said.CODC owns only some of the buildings in the mall, including the Cromwell Service Centre and neighbouring library. Image: FileMayor Tamah Alley questioned whether Cromwell should compete with "big box" retail of the type found in Queenstown’s Five Mile and suggested a different kind of anchor, such as visitor accommodation, could provide a stronger draw.Anna said traditional retail was changing, with many everyday purchases – such as “socks and undies” - now made online.“We could have a vibrant café, restaurant, bar, quirky little shop space,” she said.Property and facilities manager Garreth Robinson said the under-construction memorial hall and events centre on Lake Dunstan was already attracting outside interest in the town.“We have investors sniffing around the edges,” Garreth said.“They want to get their teeth into Cromwell.”There was broad discussion about shifting focus away from the existing mall site, which involves multiple private landowners, toward council-owned land and assets, including the Big Fruit reserve.Staff and elected members said working within the council’s own footprint would give greater control over future development, with the expectation it would increase foot traffic and act as a catalyst for improvements to existing commercial buildings.While there was discussion about land swaps and the possibility of private owners selling, Tamah reminded the room the workshop was a public forum and it was not appropriate to discuss specific individuals or past deal options.The outskirts of the Cromwell Mall, 12 February 2026. Image: The Central AppTamah acknowledged strong opinions about the mall had circulated in the community for many years, including through local media and online discussion.Traffic and road safety were identified as immediate concerns, regardless of how quickly any redevelopment progressed.Tamah described several intersections in the area as “super dodgy”.“Even if we were doing nothing in the mall, something needs to be done about those,” she said.Staff said road alignment could improve safety, while also opening up additional council land for development, and any roading project could qualify for central government funding.A report presented to the workshop said Cromwell was experiencing strong commercial demand driven by visitor numbers, population growth and regional tourism trends.Garreth encouraged elected members to be future-focused as they considered the scope and vision for the project - “don’t be scared”, he told them.Further workshops are expected over the coming months.Read more: $200k spent on Cromwell Mall fixesHave a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

A new hazard assessment for the Roxburgh area has mapped where debris floods are most likely to occur during very heavy rainfall.On November 26, 2017 Roxburgh was hit by severe flash flooding and debris flows following intense thunderstorms - described as the worst in over four decades. The event, which occurred after months of dry weather, caused significant damage, cut off access to the town, and led to a major water supply crisis. State Highway 8 was severely damaged by debris at five main creek sites (including Reservoir, Black Jacks, and Pump Station creeks), cutting the town off from the south.The Otago Regional Council (ORC) has invited the public to a community event to understand the latest findings from their natural hazards team.The study examined 13 catchments feeding into the area between Coal Creek Flat and Dumbarton. It focused on alluvial fans — low-lying areas formed by sediment deposited from creeks — which can be prone to debris flooding during intense rain.ORC manager natural hazards Dr Jean-Luc Payan said the work built on ongoing engagement with the Roxburgh community.“The new mapping identifies areas where debris floods are more likely to occur and assesses the level of risk for people and property,” he said.The assessment models three different sizes of debris floods for each of the 13 alluvial fans. The map shows the 13 catchments in the Teviot Valley included in the new study. Image: suppliedSmaller events are more common, while very large floods are rare. The mapping shows how floodwaters and debris could travel, how deep they might be, and what properties or infrastructure could be affected.Properties located close to creek channels or downslope of State Highway 8 may face higher risk, according to the findings. However, Jean-Luc stressed that being on an alluvial fan — or even in a higher-risk area — does not mean a debris flood will definitely occur, nor that homes are in immediate danger.“This information is intended to help people understand where hazards exist and support early awareness and preparedness,” he said. “There’s no reason to be alarmed — we’re simply sharing information so the community can understand the risk, stay safe and make informed, early decisions.”Jean-Luc also confirmed there are currently no planning changes or mitigation measures proposed as a result of the study. Any future decisions around land-use planning, adaptation or mitigation would be community-led and involve Central Otago District Council, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, Otago Civil Defence Emergency Management and other stakeholders.The community event at the Roxburgh Golf Club will be held on February 18, with a drop-in session 3pm to 6pm.This will allow residents to speak one-on-one or in groups with staff from ORC, Central Otago District Council, Civil Defence Emergency Management and NZTA, view detailed hazard maps, and raise questions or concerns.A formal presentation and Q&A session will follow from 6.30pm to 9pm, with technical experts outlining the study’s findings and answering questions.Alongside the full technical report, ORC has published an easy-to-read summary and a set of frequently asked questions addressing common concerns — including whether residents in higher-risk areas need to relocate. The council’s answer is clear: no one is required to move.“Being in a higher-risk area does not mean a debris flood will definitely happen,” Jean-Luc said. “Any future decisions would involve further work and full community engagement.”Mapping for other alluvial fans in the wider Teviot Valley is also available through the Otago Natural Hazards Portal.The full report, summary and FAQs can be accessed here, or residents can contact ORC’s Natural Hazards team on 0800 474 082 or [email protected] for assistance.

Work to fix problem pavers in the Cromwell Mall that had proved to be a safety hazard for shoppers and an ongoing headache for business owners has been completed.Central Otago District Council said the work began in mid-November and finished in late December, after incidents related to lifted pavers had been reported to council over several years.Parks and recreation manager Gordon Bailey said the project focused mainly on areas where tree roots had pushed up the paving.“To minimise and reduce ongoing maintenance of the pavers, we decided to extend the lawn around the tree near the library to create a new, more enjoyable area,” Gordon said.Pavers around trees along the manmade stream running through the outdoor mall were also removed and replaced with garden areas, with planting planned for April and May.The work was funded through the council’s Long Term Plan, with $200,000 allocated to the project.Contractors remove problem pavers in Cromwell Mall in December. Image: The Central AppAs part of the upgrade, several underutilised rubbish bins were removed and replaced with waste and recycling bins positioned in what the council described as strategic locations.Gordon said monitoring showed some existing bins were rarely used, while emptying all the bins was time-consuming for contractors.“Reducing the number of bins allows efficiencies to be reallocated to other areas,” he said.The remaining bins had been replaced with a three-bin system for glass, recycling and general waste, which Gordon said aligned with the council’s Waste Management and Minimisation Plan and best practice elsewhere.He confirmed there was no formal policy to replace general waste bins with this style of recycling bins across the district, and swap outs would only happen as projects and budgets allowed.A three-bin system has replaced too man bins in the mall in Cromwell. Image: The Central AppHe said the work in the mall was approved by the Cromwell Community Board, and businesses in the mall were advised ahead of construction.Concerns about the condition and future of Cromwell Mall are longstanding, with repeated reporting of uneven pavers causing tripping hazards and prompting complaints from business owners.Broader redevelopment of the mall was discussed during consultation on the council’s 2021–31 Long Term Plan, when the community was asked to consider a $42M proposal to revitalise the area.That proposal included upgrades to council-owned buildings such as the service centre and library, along with demolition, landscaping and wider improvements to public spaces.Many of the buildings in the mall are privately owned.That council-led redevelopment plan did not progress.A month and $200,000 of repairs - but is it enough to satisfy local shoppers and businesses? Image: The Central AppAsked how the recently completed maintenance work fitted into any longer-term visions for the mall, the council declined to comment.While the $200,000 project addressed specific safety and maintenance issues, frustration remains among some in the community about the mall’s future, with ongoing calls for clearer direction on whether and when more significant changes might occur.Read more: Business owner calls for Cromwell Mall upgrade and Council workshop reopens Cromwell Mall discussionHave a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

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Hot conditions have returned to Central Otago, with more warm weather expected before rain moves in tomorrow (Friday February 13).After a slow start to summer, the region has well and truly turned up the heat just as many locals return to work and children head back to school.A cooler change is expected tomorrow, with a front forecast to bring a drop in temperature and some much needed rain.In the meantime, health officials are reminding residents to take care during the hottest part of the day.Tips to beat the heatDrink plenty of water, including for pets and livestockAvoid direct sun during peak afternoon hoursExercise outdoors early morning or late eveningClose curtains during the day to keep heat outUse fans or air conditioning where availableOpen windows at nightWear light, breathable clothing and a wide brim hatSlip, slop, slap and wrap when outdoorsCool off with a swim at a safe river spot, lake, paddling pool or council poolOpt for refreshing drinks instead of hot beveragesAnimal welfare remindersWith temperatures climbing, residents are urged to consider animal safety.Dogs in cars - Even on a 25°C day, the temperature inside a parked vehicle can exceed 40°C within minutes. Opening a window does not make it safe. Owners are encouraged to leave dogs at home.Meanwhile farmers across the district are ensuring sheep and cattle have access to reliable water sources and adequate shade. Providing stock with a cool area to escape peak sun is essential during dry spells.If you notice an animal welfare concern, head to the Reports section on The Central App and click Animal Welfare Report it!The boil water notice for Roxburgh remains in place following the discovery of a dead possum in the water supply. Read more here, Dead possum triggers water warningResidents should continue boiling all drinking water until further notice from council. Updates are available under Water Notices in The Central App reports section.The Alexandra outdoor pool provides a safe place for families to cool off during hot weather. Photo: The Central AppCouncil owned swimming pools across Central Otago are open today. Details can be found under the CODC section on The Central App Swimming PoolsWhatever you’re doing today, stay cool, stay hydrated and check in on neighbours, family and animals.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

A dead possum discovered during an inspection of a Roxburgh water reservoir has prompted a boil water notice in Roxburgh and Lake Roxburgh Village.Central Otago District Council (CODC) issued the notice on Wednesday afternoon (February 11), advising residents and businesses on the council water supply to boil water while contractors flush the network in both communities.The council said it was not known how long the possum had been in the reservoir, but continuous monitoring had shown no sign of any problem with water quality.Those using tap water from the network were advised to boil all water used for drinking, brushing teeth, food preparation, washing fruit and vegetables, making ice, baby formula, juice and other cold beverages.Two water tankers supplying fresh drinking water were available from 5.30pm on Wednesday at Roxburgh Area School and the Lake Roxburgh Village Hall.The reservoir was immediately isolated once the possum was identified and will remain offline until full disinfection has been completed.An investigation is underway to determine how the animal entered the reservoir, with any identified entry points to be dealt with.Group manager three waters Julie Muir said the boil water notice was a precaution while the network was flushed.“We know any boil water notice is an inconvenience to our communities, but we must be sure the water is safe to drink,” Julie said in a statement on Wednesday.“We’ll lift it as soon as the network has been fully refreshed, which may be as early as tomorrow (Thursday February 12).”The council said the water supply network was sampled three times a week year-round, with no issues identified in recent results, while routine inspections of the reservoir took place at least monthly.Water regulator Taumata Arowai has been notified.The council asked residents to ensure tenants, neighbours and visitors were all aware of the issue.Find updates to water notices hereHave a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

There was pure cowboy action in the Teviot last weekend, as the Central Otago Pistol Club hosted 75 competitors in the New Zealand Masters Games. Club development officer Steve MacManus said a small cowboy village was set up in East Roxburgh for competitors at the Featherstone Range during the three-day competition.'Tucson The Terrible' was there from Tapanui, and 'Gypsy Rose' along with 'The Alchemist' and 'Dan Nabbit' from Dunedin.Competitors take on an ‘alias’ which is part of their character for the event in full costume, just like the cowboys of the mid-1800s.They use replica’s of traditional old Western style guns, and there’s plenty of smoke and fire action.Steve said some of them were putting 400 rounds through the pistols and rifles, especially in the Black Powder section, “and they take an absolute hammering,” he said.‘The Alchemist’ from Dunedin, also a lab chemist in her day job. Image: suppliedThis was the second time the Central Otago club hosted the NZ Masters Games - alternating with Wanganui every second year.In 2024 they started hosting the Cowboy Action section and then realised nobody else was holding the Black Powder or Steel Shooting, so this year they secured three events.“There was a lot more work than usual over three days, because you have to make sure your gear survives. It’s all blast, smoke and flames.”The main base for the Central Otago Pistol club is at Galloway but a club member that owns some land in Roxburgh enabled a satellite range to be established on his property.“It’s a fully registered range that is part of the pistol club now.”Steve said being able to operate satellite ranges around the district meant they can offer a lot more scope for members.“People come for the sport and they stay for the people.”Check them out on our community page here

Otago regional councillors support Ngāi Tahu having a role in any future change mechanism under the ‘Simplifying Local Government’ reform.The ORC moved to support iwi in its local government reform submission yesterday, but chair Hilary Calvert was initially cautious about the alignment.She said while it could be seen that the ORC supported a sense of direction that was being carried out by Ngāi Tahu, it didn’t mean they were totally onboard with it.ORC said in its submission it valued the long-standing relationship with mana whenua in the region.Announced by Government late last year, the reform proposes to replace regional councillors by a Combined Territories Board (CTB), made up of mayors across each region. Their job will then be to develop Regional Reorganisation Plans (RRPs) to improve service delivery.The regional council supports RRP’s in principle but strongly recommends that the process be undertaken by an alternative body - like an independent South Island entity.The ORC considered in its submission that ‘business as usual’ regional council governance functions should remain with regional councillors, who hold a mandate from the community.There would be conflicts of interest with Mayors being on CTB’s and the regional council decided not to make a comment about Crown Commissioners being brought in as an alternative.“If we choose that, then you don’t believe in democracy at all. We have seen how it failed,” Cr Michael Laws said.The regional council does not think the reorganisation process should be constrained by current regional boundaries, and sees the reform to at least give them another opportunity to reset the local government model.Michael said he had fundamentally changed his view on the reform since the workshop in January, and believes it doesn’t go far enough.“They have to go much further and make it more radical, “ he said.He used Auckland as an example of the model they should be following and said the Government’s reform made no sense.The new legislation will be introduced into Parliament around mid-2027, after a Select Committee process has taken place.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

For small business owners and managers, deciding when to employ, who to employ, and on what type of contract is one of the most important strategic decisions you will make. It’s also one of the most common areas where we see well-intentioned employers in Central Otago inadvertently increase their risk—often without realising it. The biggest trap? The “accidental employee.” Why Casual Employment Feels Like a Safe BetWhen a business is new, growing, or navigating the seasonal peaks of Central Otago, committing to guaranteed hours can feel daunting. Permanent or fixed-term roles require specified minimum hours and an ongoing financial commitment, even when the future is hazy.In this context, a casual contract seems like the perfect "safety net." On paper, it offers a pair of hands without the long-term obligation. But in the eyes of New Zealand law, this is where the ice gets thin. What a Casual Contract Actually MeansTrue casual employment is built on one core principle: no expectation of ongoing work. Each shift is a separate engagement, and either party can say "no" at any time.No guaranteed hours: Work is intermittent and irregular.Holiday Pay: Paid at 8% on top of gross earnings.Public Holidays: No pay if the business is closed; if worked, it’s time-and-a-half with no alternative day off (day in lieu).The Reality Check: Where Employers Get CaughtThe trouble starts when a "casual" role begins to look and feel permanent. If you regularly roster the same person for the same shifts over a sustained period, you’ve likely established a pattern of work.Here is the kicker: the Employment Relations Authority (ERA) ignores the label on your contract. They look at the reality of the relationship. Because New Zealand legislation doesn’t strictly define where "casual" ends and "permanent" begins, you are at the mercy of case law and the ERA’s interpretation.The Risk: Once a pattern exists, that employee may be legally deemed permanent for those hours, regardless of what the contract says. Why This Matters for Your Bottom LineIf an employee is reclassified as determined to be permanent, the "low-risk" option suddenly becomes a compliance nightmare:Enforceable Hours: Those regular shifts become contractually guaranteed.Recalculated Leave: 8% pay-as-you-go may no longer be compliant; annual leave entitlement must be accrued.Public Holiday Entitlements: They will be entitled to paid public holidays if you are closed and if they work a shift that’s usually theirs, they’ll get a day off in lieu as well as time and a half. Restructuring Hurdles: You can't just stop giving them hours; any reduction requires a formal, legal process including consultation.Is Casual Employment Ever the Right Choice?Absolutely. It is the correct tool for work that is:Genuinely irregular or unpredictable.Short-term and event-based (e.g., a one-off festival or seasonal harvest surge).If you are using a casual contract simply because you’re nervous about the future, you aren't protecting yourself, you're potentially creating a ticking time bomb. A More Strategic Path ForwardInstead of defaulting to casual, Central Otago businesses should consider all the options available: Part-time permanent roles with modest, sustainable hours.Fixed-term agreements tied to a genuine, documented business need.Flexible clauses that balance business adaptability with legal certainty.How we helpAt EASI NZ, we work alongside small and growing businesses to design employment arrangements that align with their operational realities, growth plans, and risk profile, while ensuring legal compliance and clear expectations.If you’re unsure whether you may have an accidental employee, or you’d like confidence that your employment structure truly supports your business, now is the time to review it.

Alexandra Police and the Alexandra BNZ are dealing with complaints about scammers almost on a daily basis. As a result, Grey Power Central Otago organised a public meeting on Tuesday, and invited experts to share insights and tips on how to stay clear of them.Just before Christmas, a social media post claiming to be the Government and using a photo of the Prime Minister, informed all seniors and beneficiaries that they would be receiving a bonus payment on December 15.Work and Income NZ and the Ministry of Social Development denied any knowledge of it, and quickly sent out a statement declaring it to be a scam.Sergeant Darren Kidd told the meeting that identify theft was huge, “because in today’s society, and with AI, they can construct anything.”Facebook marketplace is rife with scammers, and relationship scams are common too, according to Joanne Rae from the Alexandra BNZ, who said these have caught out a few locals recently.“They have often lost a lot of money and are too embarrassed to come to us,” she said.One Grey Power member received a call from the bank asking if she had been to England recently, because somebody had spent $4000 from her bank account on gaming subscriptions.Sgt Kidd said at least two people a day drop into the police station with concerns, including after receiving text messages asking them to pay unpaid fines.“If you get a text from NZ Police to pay a fine, don’t do it.”Then there are the scam emails claiming to be from customs, asking people to pay more postage to release packages, the popular WhatsApp scam from 2022 claiming to be relatives overseas looking for money - unable to call because they’ve lost their phone.Netsafe has a resource called ‘The Little Black Book of Scams’ that is useful for people to download. The BNZ also has a ‘Scam Savvy’ booklet that people can pick up from the bank.Meanwhile, Grey Power Central Otago has invited the national president Gayle Chambers, to one of its next meetings in May, and are hoping to attract more members.President Stan Randle said despite what people think, "you don’t have to be old to join, our guide is 50+ and it has nothing to do with grey hair, and all to do with grey matter.”There are currently more than 250 members in Central Otago, and more information can be found on them here.

Central Otago mayor Tamah Alley has joined a viral social media trend, creating an AI-generated caricature after seeing local business owners share their own entertaining versions online.The trend, powered by generative AI image tools, allows users to upload a photo and prompt to produce a stylised, cartoon-like version of themselves.The resulting images often exaggerate facial features and include props or backgrounds that reflect a person’s interests or personality.Tamah said she first noticed the trend when her Facebook feed was “flooding” with caricatures.“Some people had fantastic - and very accurate - depictions,” she said.It was seeing Alexandra business owners taking part that convinced her to give it a go.“When I saw the ones from Paper Plus with all the books, I thought it was time to generate my own,” she said.“It was quite fun waiting to see what ChatGPT would come up with.”Her verdict on how AI interpreted her photo?“I think mine is a pretty accurate depiction - my role is awesome, so I’m pleased I look like I’m having a great time,” she said.“It’s captured Central Otago well, including Lake Dunstan and Leaning Rock, despite the fact we’ve not had as much heat and sun as we would have liked this summer.”She did, however, question one particular feature.“The teeth - I feel like I’d have to pay a lot of money to get teeth that white and enormous.”Alexandra Paper Plus owners Stevie and Sam Robinson also shared their AI caricatures on social media.“We had a bit of fun with it - the first one we did for me put Stevie’s mole on my face, and it was actually hard to tell which one was who,” Sam said.AI’s interpretation of backgrounds added to the appeal.“Mine was taken in my office as I was about to leave, so we love what AI did to the background - messy office hidden,” Sam said.Sam and Stevie Robinson’s AI caricatures shared on Facebook. Image: FacebookWhile the pair were curious about how AI might support some aspects of business, they were clear about its limits.“It can’t replace the human interaction in our store with our customers,” Sam said.The online challenge is now being extended to others across the district.“Alexandra Paper Plus nailed theirs (but the) best yet is still Nat Thurlow with her Thermomox,” Tamah said on her mayoral Facebook page.“Would love to see other local businesses. Maybe a butcher??? Do we risk it?”Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

Central Otago Police issued 165 bad driving infringements over Waitangi weekend.Road policing teams dealt with many offending drivers, while managing heavy traffic in Central Otago over the long weekend.Sergeant Regan Price said that a high number of driving infringements from Friday to Sunday was concerning.“Police are disappointed they had to issue 165 speed and traffic infringements in the Central Otago area over three days. Lots of people were coming to the area, drawn to a number of events on during the weekend.“It’s dangerous to speed or have bad driving behaviour at any time, and a busy public holiday only increases the risk someone could get hurt,” he said.On Waitangi Day, Alexandra Police clocked a car travelling over 50km/h over the speed limit on Alexandra – Fruitlands Road.Officers impounded the vehicle for 28 days, and the 26-year-old driver has been charged with driving a vehicle at a dangerous speed. He will appear in the Alexandra District Court on February 26.Police at Ranfurly dealt with a vehicle crash where alcohol was suspected to be a factor. A 19-year-old has been charged with driving with excess breath alcohol and will appear in the Alexandra District court on February 26.Meanwhile, the female motorcyclist from the St Bathans crash remains in hospital. Sgt Price said enquiries into that crash are continuing.Police encourage safe driving at all times. This includes ensuring you are not impaired by fatigue, alcohol or drugs, that you are alert and free from distraction, driving at a safe speed within the speed limit and ensuring everyone is properly restrained in a seatbelt or child car seat.  If you see dangerous driving, call 111.

A Bannockburn residents’ group has warned the village is unprepared for a major increase in cyclists once the Kawarau Gorge Trail opens, citing pressure on parking, safety concerns and a lack of public toilets.Representatives of the Bannockburn Responsible Development Society Inc. raised the concerns during the public forum at last week’s Cromwell Community Board meeting.The group said demand projections prepared for Central Otago District Council in 2024 estimated between 80,000 and 102,000 cyclists would use the trail in its first season.Speaking on behalf of the society, Harvey Perkins said peak day demand could reach close to 1,000 trips, with peak hour use of up to 225 cyclists.“This is almost two trips per minute in both directions,” he said.Harvey said the projected numbers raised questions about where cyclists would park, rest and access facilities, both at the Felton Road trail end and within Bannockburn village itself.He said parking was already congested and there was no public green space available for visitors.The society also highlighted the absence of public drinking water and toilet facilities.“Toilet provision is a major issue, given the peak...projections,” he said.“We need the community board to create a plan urgently.”Contractors finish the deck of a bluff bridge on the Kawarau Gorge Trail. Image: Supplied/Dave HowardSafety concerns were also raised regarding the lack of a formed walking and cycling path linking the end of Felton Road with Bannockburn Road and the village’s hotel and cafe.Several Cromwell Community Board members acknowledged the issues raised, saying the presentation highlighted valid pressure points ahead of the trail opening.A Central Otago District Council staff member told the meeting funding had been allocated for a path connecting the trail to Bannockburn village.However, the project had been paused to align with upcoming three waters infrastructure work. The staff member said council officers were assessing whether the path should be built as part of the water project or delivered separately, to avoid digging up newly completed work.Council staff also outlined ongoing work with the trail trust and commercial operators around signage, drop-off locations and encouraging use of larger parking areas further from the village.The Kawarau Gorge Trail is nearing completion, with less than one kilometre still to be formed.Contractors are finishing work through the gorge, with surfacing, safety barriers and signage still to be completed.An official opening date has not yet been confirmed, but the trail is expected to open later this summer.Read more: Kawarau trail close to finishHave a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

A record number of podium finishes at the South Island Rowing Championships has set up the Dunstan Arm Rowing Club well for nationals this week in Lake Karapiro.Head coach Simon Smith said the club dominated at the South Island champs with 43 athletes making top three finishes, which he described as “phenomenal.”“I’m proud of the squad collectively, and these fantastic results are testament to the hard work and commitment put in. We have a fantastic team of people and coaches driving the club forward.” Last season the club had 26 podium finishes at the South Islands, so the standard just keeps on lifting, with many multiple medals across the different events.“As the old adage goes do better than before,” he said.This season has also seen the school rowing programme integrated into the club programme, offering more opportunities for school rowers to train alongside athletes of similar abilities and creating clear development pathways through to elite level rowing. Simon said both the club and senior programme have grown significantly over the past three years, attracting athletes from across New Zealand and around the world. “Our programme is growing, our depth of athlete is growing, and we’re the fastest growing club in New Zealand,” he said.Up until three years ago, Simon was coaching on his own, but now with three extra coaches they can all target one group each - seniors, club, intermediate and junior level rowing.DARC head coach Simon Smith with club squad coach Lauren Gibb with the medal haul from the recent South Island championships. Image: suppliedThe club has 109 rowers - 90 of whom are competitive and this weekend a squad of 60 athletes will represent the club at the New Zealand Rowing Championships.Club season will then finish and about 15 Dunstan High School rowers will carry on training for the South Island Secondary Schools and the Maadi Cup to conclude the season in March.Simon said about 12 rowers will be trialling for New Zealand - about the same as last season, and the club also has three international athletes (two from Germany and one from Canada).“We’ve had multiple international rowers that have competed for their countries.”However, the growth and success of the club comes with logistical and financial challenges, with more  equipment and volunteer power required to ensure all athletes have the resources they need to perform at their best. As a not-for-profit organisation run entirely by volunteers, Dunstan Arm Rowing Club acknowledges the generous support of its key sponsors—C&R Insurance, ITM Southern Lakes, Breen Construction, and Vincent Holdings—along with the dedication of its coaches, committee, rowing families, and the wider local community. This support is vital to the club’s success both on and off the water, and the club’s sponsors were recently acknowledged at an event held at the club. “We are looking forward to seeing our athletes compete on the national stage at the NZ Champs on Lake Karapiro next week. We couldn’t do it without the generous support of our club sponsors.”Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

Divers have removed 7.5 kilograms of rubbish from St Bathans’ Blue Lake during a clean-up dive run last week. The dive was carried out by Dunedin-based Dive Otago, whose students travelled to Central Otago as part of the company’s summer school and instructor training courses. Dive Otago general manager Virginia Watson said the clean-up was inspired by PADI’s “Dive Against Debris” programme, aimed at removing and recording rubbish found in lake and coastal waters. “One of the cool things training here in Otago is that we can go up to the lakes and do some altitude diving, which is a little bit more technical,” Virginia said. The dive took place at an elevation of 540 metres, with students working at depths of up to 14 metres, mainly around the edges of the lake. Virginia said the group recovered a range of rubbish linked to recreational use of the lake, including stand-up paddleboard paddles, fishing gear, bottles and food packaging. “None of it looks like deliberate dumping,” she said.  “It’s all misadventure - things ending up there.” Some of the 7.5 kilograms of rubbish pulled from the remote Central Otago lake. Image: Dive OtagoSome heavier items were brought to the surface using lift bags, allowing students to practise recovery techniques as part of their training. Virginia said one item stood out as more unusual than the rest - a metal object believed to be part of a chimney or ventilation unit.She said documenting what was found was an important part of the process.“If we keep going back to the same places, overtime we can start seeing whether there’s less rubbish, more rubbish, or different types of rubbish,” she said. She said Dive Otago tried to incorporate clean-ups into most of its training programmes.The goal, she said, was to pass that ethic on to future instructors.“Then wherever they go, they’ll know they can do similar activities,” she said.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

Central Otago District Council will proceed with harvesting two pine forest blocks in Cromwell despite a petition signed by more than 600 people opposing the move. The blocks house popular off-leash dog exercise areas, and the Cromwell Community Board has acknowledged there will likely to be a period when no equivalent dog exercise space is available in the town.The issue was discussed at Wednesday’s community board meeting, where petition organiser Lisa Telle and her partner Eddie asked the council to consider a paused, staged or partial approach to the larger harvest site on Sandflat Rd.Community board chair Anna Harrison said the trees were plantation forestry and could not simply be left in place indefinitely."They're 40 years old, and there is a lifespan of them being safe,” she said.She said allowing dog access during harvesting would not be safe, but there was openness to re-establishing a dog exercise area within the Sandflat Rd block once harvesting was complete."I don't think there was ever any intention...it would be a loss forever,” she said.Lisa told the board the two pine blocks made up the vast majority of Cromwell’s off-leash dog exercise space, providing shaded areas where dogs could be exercised safely and away from roads, cycleways, playgrounds and, in some cases, other dogs.Using council mapping tools, the pair showed once harvesting begins, almost all of the currently marked off-leash area would be lost.This would leave a small grassy area beside Alpha St and Dustin Park in Pisa Moorings as the only remaining options.Zoomies Dog Training and Adventures owner Lisa Telle with Roo at one of Cromwell's off-leash dog exercise areas. Image: SuppliedLisa said feedback gathered through an online survey showed most respondents did not consider those locations suitable.Concerns raised included safety, lack of shade, limited size and proximity to other park users.Community board member Mike Casey suggested it may be better to “rip the Band-Aid off”, complete the harvest, and then move quickly to re-establish a suitable off-leash area at Sandflat Rd.The smaller pine forest block, bordering Bannockburn Rd and the council’s transfer station, has been rezoned for industrial subdivision.Mike said he supported further investigation into future uses of the Sandflat Rd land, including solar generation, but said those options were not mutually exclusive with retaining space for dog exercise.Regardless,“the numbers have to stack up”, he said, and any solar proposal would need to deliver value to the community.He also thanked the petition organisers for their “community leadership”.Lisa said she accepted the trees may need to be removed but wanted council to work closely with the community on what came next.She pointed to dog exercise areas such as Jardine Park in Queenstown as an example of what Cromwell could work towards.Board members also acknowledged there were no other council-owned, tree-covered reserves in Cromwell that could immediately replace the spaces being lost.Council staff confirmed the two pine blocks are scheduled for felling in April.Read more: Dog owners rally to save off-leash parks and Dog parks to go as council eyes solar potential for CromwellHave a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]