The 2025/26 export cherry season won’t go down in history as a vintage year, but orchardists across Central Otago still have plenty of fruit to pick yet.Rain, wind and hail battered Central Otago orchardists since the beginning of Spring, and Cromwell growers have been battling at least one rain event a week for the past two months.Fortune Fruit in Lowburn has called out helicopters to dry cherries at least seven times, and said any more rain will be disastrous for the orchard.Manager Blair Davidson said this season was “unlike any other,” and he described the ongoing wind and rain as relentless.“Things will get pretty dire if we get more rain.”The orchard had to cull 40% of a block of cherries from rain damage in early January, but many of their later varieties were still on the trees, with 350 tonne still to pick. “There is still good fruit out there, if we get no more rain it will still be an okay season,” Blair said.Panmure Orchards grower Jeremy Hiscock, of Earnscleugh, said the rain came at the wrong times when many growers were trying to get export fruit off to market - particularly cherries.“It’s been a cool summer but we’ve had worse.”The weather also affected harvest windows, with some pickers frustrated with delays having to wait for different varieties to ripen.Leaning Rock in Springvale, has been advertising for pickers all this week across social media, as the fruit has all started to finally ripen.Last year the peak of the summerfruit season in Central Otago was around January 17, but this year it was running at least 2-3 weeks behind.Growers say the cooler season has affected sizing across crops and delayed their maturity, “but if anything it has spread the season out and there should be less pain that way,” Jeremy said.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

Popular swimming spots around Central Otago have been closely monitored over summer, and so far the water quality has been good.Otago Regional Council scientist, water quality Helen Trotter said the results from the recreational water quality monitoring programme for Central Otago have been broadly consistent with previous years. She said across the region, there have been several amber (‘caution advised’) results and a small number of red (‘unsuitable for swimming’), most of which were associated with rainfall.“E. coli levels after rainfall can vary widely due to several interacting factors, including sources of contamination present in the catchment (e.g., livestock, wildlife, urban stormwater, septic systems), rainfall intensity and timing, environmental conditions and runoff generation.”Sometimes the heavy rainfall can dilute E. coli concentrations, even when contamination is present in the waterway, she said. As a general precaution, the regional council recommends avoiding swimming for 48 hours after rainfall as the best way to reduce risk, because most elevated bacteria results occur following rain.She said it was also helpful to understand the long‑term grade at monitored sites. Sites graded ‘poor’ or ‘fair’ tend to experience elevated E. coli more frequently, as they usually have more faecal sources in their catchments—such as urban stormwater inputs, or large numbers of livestock, birds and wildlife. This includes the Manuherikia River at various points in the lower catchment.In contrast, ‘excellent' sites typically have fewer contamination sources and therefore may be less likely to show elevated E. coli levels after rain.The Manuherikia River under the Shaky Bridge in Alexandra has had an 83% clean bill of health since weekly monitoring started in early December.The Clutha River at the Alexandra boat ramp has been 100% clear of any elevated E.Coli levels since testing started, as well as the Kawarau Arm at the Bannockburn Bridge.Lake Dunstan at Alpha Street in Cromwell has also been clean along with Burton Creek near the Dunstan Rowing Club.Pinders Pond near Roxburgh is part of the testing and has a clean record as well so far this summer.Monitoring of the 36 sites across the region will continue through to 31 March.Results are updated on LAWA (Land, Air, Water Aotearoa), a national platform that brings together water quality information from councils across New Zealand.ORC has carried out recreational water monitoring since 2006. The toxic algae blooms can also occur in the warmer summer months, and appears as green “pea soup” or scums on the surface of the water. Butchers Dam and the Manuherikia River are both hotspots for Cyanobacteria. Image: suppliedIn rivers, toxic algae occurs as dark brown or black mats attached to rocks, often with a musty smell.Both the Manuherikia River and Butchers Dam are known cyanobacteria hotspots, and the ORC encourages people to report it.If you think you have experienced a reaction after exposure to water containing toxic algae, seek urgent medical attention. Let your doctor know that you think you have swallowed toxic algae, so that they can inform Regional Public Health of the incident. Swallowing water containing toxic algae can lead to vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and nausea. Skin contact can cause irritation of the skin, eyes, nose, and mouth. The toxins can also affect the liver and the nervous system.Dogs are particularly susceptible to poisoning as they can be attracted to the musty smell of toxic algae mats – if eaten it can cause severe poisoning or death. In extreme cases death can occur within 30 minutes after signs first appear. If your dog experiences these symptoms treat it as an emergency and contact a veterinarian immediately.Livestock are also at risk from poisoning from toxic algae and should be provided with alternative drinking water.Symptoms of poisoning in animals include:LethargyMuscle tremorsFast breathingTwitchingParalysisConvulsionsSee the Toxic Algae information page to learn more about it.  

The old way of doing HR—purely administrative, focused only on compliance—is a liability, not an asset. For your business to truly thrive in 2026, HR must become a strategic force. It's the mechanism that directly links your people, processes, and paperwork to your core business goals, vision, and values.What does strategic HR actually look like?It means saying goodbye to HR as just a painful necessity and embracing it as an engine for success:Clarity & Purpose; Every single role in your company must have a clear purpose and contribute directly to your desired direction.Aligned Paperwork; Your contracts, job descriptions, handbooks, and policies must go beyond simple compliance. They need to be genuinely aligned with how you operate and what you are building.Vision-Driven Management; Your daily people management shouldn't just maintain the status quo. It should bring your vision to life, ensuring employees feel like active participants in the journey, not just passengers.Analogy: Think of your business as a gearing system. Each person is a cog. Cogs need to be the right fit, they need regular attention and "oiling," and as the business evolves, they may need replacing. If your direction shifts, you must adjust the whole system—relying on what has "always worked" will only cause a breakdown.⚙️ The 4-Point HR Strategy Checkup for 2026To shift your HR from admin to advantage, here are four steps to implement right now:Stop and Review Your Business StrategyTake the time to revisit your long-term goals. Strategies evolve, and the sooner you identify any unintended drift, the easier it is to course-correct.Reassess Your Structure and RolesIs your current team structure still fit for purpose? Do you need new skills? A structure that was perfect two years ago might now be the bottleneck holding you back from 2026 success.Refresh Your HR Paperwork Compliance is the bare minimum. The real value comes when your employment documents are tailored, current, and genuinely reflective of your operational goals.Review Your People ProcessesOutdated policies, performance management systems, and communication tools don't just frustrate staff; they waste time and create risk. Ensure your processes are evolving alongside your business.Not sure where to start?Achieving business success through your people isn't luck—it's the result of intentional planning, clear direction, and ongoing maintenance. Take our quick HR Health Check here to identify exactly which areas need your strategic focus heading into the new year.Sponsored Content: This article has been submitted by a contributing local expert as part of The Central App’s sponsored advisor programme.

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More than 500 people have signed a petition opposing a Central Otago District Council plan to harvest two pine forest blocks in Cromwell, a move that would close two popular off-leash dog exercise areas. The petition was started by local resident and dog walking business owner Lisa Telle, who said the planned forestry work would leave Cromwell without any suitable off-leash options for many dogs.“There’s no other safe option,” Lisa said.  “It would be quite devastating for the community if it were to go ahead.” The council has said the harvest is required because the pine trees have reached maturity.  One block, bordering Bannockburn Rd, is earmarked for an industrial subdivision, while a solar farm has been flagged as a possible future use for the larger Sandflat Rd block. While alternative off-leash areas have been identified at Alpha St and Dustin Park in Pisa Moorings, Lisa said feedback from dog owners suggested those locations were not suitable replacements. She said the pine blocks provided large, shaded spaces where dogs could exercise without being forced into close contact with other dogs or members of the public. “There’s enough room for dogs to coexist without interacting,” she said.  “People think dog exercise areas are about dogs interacting, but having your dog under control actually requires space - and dogs also need space to run.” Lisa said Alpha St posed safety concerns because of its proximity to a busy road and a shared walking and cycling track. “I would never have a dog off-leash right next to a road,” she said.  “You’ve got cars on one side, bikes and pedestrians on the other, and some dogs don’t react well to bikes. That’s going to cause issues with tourists and members of the public.” She said both Alpha St and Dustin Park were also close to playgrounds and residential areas, were relatively small, and lacked shade. “In summer months it’s incredibly hot to take a dog somewhere with no shade because they can’t regulate their body temperature,” she said. The petition has been running since late November, attracting 512 signatures (as at Tuesday January 13). Lisa said many people who signed also provided written feedback through an online survey. While she accepted council may need to remove the trees, she said she wanted greater collaboration with the community on either replanting or identifying an alternative off-leash area that was genuinely suitable. “I totally understand if they need to take the trees down,” she said.  “But it’s the fact that there are so many dogs that are going to be affected, and therefore the community will be affected as well.” She said concentrating hundreds of dogs and their owners into one or two small spaces could also create further issues. "It's just going to be chaos," she said. Addressing her own commercial interest, Lisa said the petition was not driven by business concerns. “We’ll be fine,” she said.  “If we have to, we’ll rent land or go out of town with our walking and training groups. I’m more concerned about the wider repercussions.” Lisa said she had contacted the council and planned to present the petition and survey findings, alongside other residents, at the Cromwell Community Board’s first meeting of the year on February 4. “A group of us will be attending and presenting the findings from the public,” she said. The council has not yet publicly responded to the petition.  However, responding to discussion on a local residents and ratepayers Facebook page, Cromwell Community Board member Mike Casey said a solar farm was only an idea at this stage. “Solar panels are just an idea of how we best use this land, but it’s only an idea,” Mike said.  “These trees need to be felled because they’re due to be.” He said replanting the site in pine was also an option, and that council would explore a range of future uses for the land. “What we will be doing is exploring options on what to do with this land, and I’m very supportive of concepts that maximise value to put downward pressure on rates,” he said. Mike said any decision would require careful evaluation, noting the land was held as an endowment and must be used to benefit the community.Read more: Dog parks to go as council eyes solar potential for Cromwell Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

While parts of the North Island sweltered through record-breaking heat late last week, Central Otago remained unseasonably cool, with temperatures struggling to climb out of the teens.With some places enduring daytime highs in the mid 30s and overnight lows that did not drop below 20 degrees Celcius, locals and holidaymakers in Central Otago were likely reaching for warmer and waterproof layers instead of swimwear. According to MetService, the heat elsewhere was driven by a westerly flow pulling hot air from the edge of an Australian heatwave, but that air mass did not extend far enough south. Napier Airport recorded a high of 36.3 degrees Celsius over the weekend, while Kerikeri reached 32.7 degrees Celsius, breaking January records.MetService meteorologist Ngaire Wotherspoon said the south was caught in a completely different weather pattern. "It was very much a northern and central parts of Aotearoa heatwave," she said.  "The hot air from Australia just didn't quite make it down to you guys. You’re getting more of that regular westerly stuff from the middle latitudes...and some of that air is coming from further south, from around Antarctica." The cooler temperatures were not the only weather related drama for the area. While the north baked, Central Otago and Southern Lakes were hit by an intense electrical storm early Sunday morning. MetService detected 2,277 lightning strikes across the area, most of them occurring between the early hours of the morning and 10am.  Residents in Lowburn and Cromwell reported houses rattling and thunder that seemed to roll on for several minutes at a time. MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane said there was "a good mix of very intense and less intense strikes" as a large front moved north."But the thunderstorms likely felt more intense due to the proximity and duration of the thunderstorms and also the frequency of the lightning and thunder," she said. Adding to local frustration regarding the summer weather has been a noticeable difference between a popular smartphone weather app and conditions on the ground. Same time, different picures of weather conditions in Cromwell on Tuesday. Images: The Central App and iPhone Weather appOn Tuesday, the Apple Weather app forecast a high of just 16 degrees Celsius for Cromwell, while the temperature gauge at the Big Fruit Reserve reached 25 degrees Celsius in the early afternoon. Kiwi Water Park owner Emily Rutherford said she no longer relies on phone apps for Central Otago forecasts.Her advice to visitors: "Don’t look at the iPhone app for weather in Central; it is incorrect 100% of the time. Check MetService instead." For those hoping summer still has more to offer, there may be some good news ahead.While Ngairie couldn't promise a heatwave, she said Central Otago often experiences its most settled and hottest weather later in the season. "As much as we haven't had those longer spells of fine weather yet, it doesn't mean it's not going to happen," she said.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

At least five incidents of burglaries at properties in the Alexandra area over the past few weeks, has prompted locals to use social media to warn others.People are warning that some letterboxes have been ‘tagged,” possibly as a signal from offenders marking which properties are vacant and therefore targets.Alexandra police investigated a burglary on January 1 at Fruitlands where a vehicle, firearms and ammunition were stolen, along with jewellery and tools, including a chainsaw. Acting Senior Sergeant Adam Elder said after extensive inquiries from Central Otago to Southland, they were able to locate some of the stolen property, including the firearms which have since been returned to the owners.A male aged in his 40s was arrested later that day and remanded in custody to appear at the Invercargill District Court on January 22.He is facing charges of burglary and unlawfully taking a motor vehicle. Inquiries continue for some of the missing property.A couple in Lookout Estate also had their two E-bikes stolen around lunchtime on January 2, and then another resident was woken the next night by their dog barking and the driveway gate left wide open.People were reported walking around a building site in Killarney Street with torches at 11pm on January 7, and then the following night a resident reported offenders trying to break into their neighbours house on the same street.“Be vigilant and look out for one another,” one of the Facebook posts read.Another resident said she had already installed cameras around her property, whilst on Kerry Street, there has been a guy sneaking around houses looking in windows. The man was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and on a push bike, and was reported to police.Central Otago police say keep your houses secure. Image: FileAnd just this week on January 11 an Alexandra woman reported that someone had entered her property in Ashworth Street, and made their way towards the garage.Luckily nothing was stolen as everything was well secured, but her Facebook post prompted others in the area to also write about their experiences.Snr Sgt Elder said four of the five complaints reported to police are still under investigation. “We continue to send the message that this type of crime is not acceptable. We’d like to remind people to stay vigilant and report any behaviour that looks suspicious."The Fruitlands investigation highlighted the importance of quality security systems including CCTV, and alarms which was instrumental in finding the offender, he said.Police suggest some other simple steps to reduce burglary risk: For homes:• Lock doors and windows when you’re not in the room or heading to bed.• Use window stays for ventilation while keeping windows secure.• Close curtains at night.• Get to know your neighbours and let them know if you’re going away. For vehicles:• Always lock your vehicle and take keys with you, even if you’re only away for a short time.• Remove valuables from sight, including wallets, phones, and tools.• Park in well-lit areas or secure garages where possible.• Consider using steering wheel locks or other visible deterrents.• Never leave spare keys hidden in or around the vehicle.• Tradies: Remove tools from vehicles overnight and secure them inside.• Avoid leaving car keys in obvious locations near entry points to your home. “I’d like to remind the public that they should contact police as soon as possible if something is happening or has happened.If you witness any suspicious behaviour please contact Police on 111 if it is happening now, or 105 if it is after the fact.”Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

The sweltering Central summer heat is back and it’s definitely increasing The Central App news teams’ ice cream consumption. So, how hot has it been, and what can you do to find relief?Alexandra Airport’s weather station hit 29.9 degrees on Wednesday, and 27.2degrees the day prior. MetService forecast indicates Tuesday’s [January 28] temperatures will climb to 27’C again.Blenheim cracked 31’C on Thursday January 23 and Invercargill had a chilly southerly reaching only 14’C.The forecast temperatures for the coming days. PHOTO: MetServiceMetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane said this past week certainly has resembled a seesaw, with temperatures in the high twenties but then on Thursday Alexandra hardly even touched 20°C.“This weekend temperatures return to the low to mid-twenties but drop back down on Monday as fresh southwesterlies arrive to the region. Midweek may see temperatures back in the mid-twenties for a time as a weather system approaches with westerly winds.“For those looking to make outdoor plans, there should be plenty of opportunities in the coming days. Saturday could see a shower in the morning, then the rest of the day should remain dry for most.“The first part of Sunday should also be dry - although places close to the Waitaki District may see spots of rain. The second half . . . however, looks to bring showers to the region - the best chance for wet weather for the coming days.”Ideas to help beat the heat:Drink plenty of water (this goes for pets and animals too)Stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day (snaffle a siesta)If exercising outside go early morning, or late evening when the sun is not as strong and temperatures are coolerClose curtains to keep the sun outRun a fan (stick a bowl of ice in front of it to circulate cooler air), or your air conditioning/heat pump on cool If you’re in the sun slip, slop, slap and wrap on some sunglasses (and head to the shade)Open your windows at night to let the cool air in, and then close them before the temperature outside heats upSwim (in a lake, or a safe river swim spot, or a paddling pool, or a council owned pool [LINK: https://www.codc.govt.nz/services/pools/our-pools], or even a cool bath or shower will help to lower your core body temperature)Switch your coffee or tea for an icy-drink or treat - support a local ice cream storeConsider your wardrobe (ditch the black sweater, think jandals or sandals, natural breathable fabrics and a wide brimmed straw hat) Advice on heat stroke and symptoms can be found on the not for profit community website Health Navigator.  This summer is the fourth year MetService is trialling a heat alert system for 46 towns or cities, if the forecast temperatures are expected to be unusual - very hot - for that location.Stay up to date with weather and roads on The Central App.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Otago Regional councillors will meet tomorrow to further discuss how they intend to submit on proposed local government reforms.The ORC has until February 20 to prepare a whole-of-council submission on the Government’s reforms, which is threatening their roles as elected members.The Government’s Simplifying Local Government proposal will see all elected regional councillors replaced by a Combined Territories Board (CTB), made up of mayors and/or Crown Commissioners.There have been ongoing discussions with mayors and chairs across Otago, to share submission points in understanding how each council operates.Chief executive Richard Saunders told the last ORC meeting in December, it would be difficult to get a joint formal submission signed off with other councils before the February 20 deadline.As a result, the ORC would be submitting its own submission, and those points will be discussed at tomorrow’s meeting, and then put forward for resolution at its first official meeting of the year in mid February.Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) has been asking for reform and a review of the system for years, and the proposals announced late last year will affect local democracy across New Zealand.ORC chair Hilary Calvert believes it is not the job of mayors in the region to take on new roles on the Combined Territories Board, because they would become conflicted.Dunstan ward councillor Gary Kelliher said the reforms have come about because of the poor decisions made by the ORC in recent years - and in its defiance of Government direction.“Central Government and ratepayers were very clear they are fed up with regional councils complicating everything unnecessarily, and at huge cost.“If current councillors are to play a part in the signalled transition then they need to be all about efficiency, savings and removal of red tape. Finally we might see progress killing ideology gone from future resources’ management,” he said.Fellow Dunstan ward councillor Michael Laws is in favour of unitary authorities, saying that regional councils have run their course.More to follow post meeting.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

For decades, the corporate structure has remained rigidly vertical. Strategy was dictated from the "bridge" by the captains of industry, while execution was carried out in the "engine room" by the crew. Information flowed down, and obedience flowed up.But we are currently witnessing a massive power shift.Artificial Intelligence is doing something unprecedented: it is leveling the playing field. It is dissolving the invisible barrier between execution and strategy, allowing the "underdog" in the engine room to outpace the traditional "captain" on the bridge.Intelligence, data analysis, and strategic foresight are no longer exclusive perks of the executive suite. Today, they are accessible to anyone with a laptop and the willingness to adapt.The Dinosaur DilemmaDespite the undeniable wave of change, we are seeing a strange phenomenon in leadership circles. I call it the Dinosaur Dilemma.There is a subset of leaders who are dismissing AI with a wave of their hand. You hear them say things like, "It’s not going to take jobs," or "That sort of automation isn't going to happen here anytime soon."These leaders are clinging to obsolete hierarchies. They rely on the authority of their title rather than the efficiency of their output. By ignoring these tools, they are making a fatal career calculation: they are choosing to fall behind the very employees they are supposed to lead. While they cling to the old charts, their crew is already navigating with GPS.The Power Shift: Why They Need YouThis reluctance from the top creates a unique paradox. While traditional bosses refuse to innovate, you have the immediate opportunity to master the tools that will essentially "save the ship."When an entry-level employee can use AI to analyse market trends, automate complex workflows, or draft high level communications in seconds, the hierarchy flattens. Value is no longer defined by tenure; it is defined by fluency.This creates a dynamic where the organisation needs you more than you need them. You are no longer just a pair of hands; you are the architect of your own efficiency. You become the translator between the problem and the solution.Your Window of OpportunityThe market is waking up. While the "dinosaurs" are stalling, open-minded leaders and forward thinking companies are aggressively hunting for AI fluency right now. They don't care if you have five years of management experience; they care if you can leverage AI to do the work of five people.By upskilling today, you position yourself for three distinct advantages:Higher Pay: AI fluency is a leverage multiplier. When you can produce high-quality work faster than your peers, you can negotiate based on output and productivity, not just hours worked.Better Culture: By signaling your skills, you attract (and get hired by) a "tribe" of innovators. You move away from environments that stifle growth and toward cultures that reward curiosity.Real Impact: AI handles the drudgery. This frees you up to do work that actually matters - creative problem solving, strategic thinking, and high-impact projects.The Takeaway We are in a brief transitional period where the gap between the "AI-literate" and the "AI-resistant" is still bridgeable. But that window is closing.Don't let a "dinosaur" stifle your potential. If your current leadership doesn't see the value of these tools, use them to outgrow your current role. Embrace AI now to transition from a bored employee in the engine room to an indispensable asset who knows exactly how to steer the ship.The bridge is yours for the taking.

The Institute of Economic Research's (NZIER) closely followed Quarterly Business Survey for the three months ended December showed a net 39 percent of respondents believed economic conditions would get better in coming months, compared to a net 17 percent in the December survey."There is a turnaround in demand, with lower interest rates finally gaining traction," NZIER principal economist Christina Leung said.Weak sales were still cited as the chief constraint on businesses, but the pressures were easing, with only 3 percent reporting lower sales in the quarter.Expectations were for improved growth in the coming quarter, with a net 23 percent forecasting a lift in their own business - up from 10 percent in the previous quarter.Leung said businesses were increasingly feeling confident about investing in plants and machinery and hiring more stuff.Business confidence improves to highest level since March 2014Net 39 percent expect economic improvement vs +17 pct in September surveyBusinesses report better demand, plan to invest and hire more.Inflation pressures contained around 3 pct, expected to gradually declineSurvey suggests annual growth around 1.4 pct, RBNZ to hold interest rates steadyBusiness sentiment rebounded strongly at the end of last year, with firms reporting improved sales and planning to hire staff and increase investment.NZIER principal economist Christina Leung. Photo: ABC News"Firms increased staff numbers and are feeling more positive about hiring in the next quarter."However, she said there were signs that firms were finding it more difficult to find skilled staff in the manufacturing and construction sectors, which could point to future labour shortages.She said inflation pressures were contained with fewer firms expecting higher costs and also fewer expecting to have to raise their prices, which indicated inflation gradually falling back to the middle of the Reserve Bank's 1-3 percent target band.Leung said the survey indicated the economy was recovering but the increase in growth was likely to be slower than previously thought, with annual growth about 1.4 percent."With demand starting to recover but inflation remaining contained, we expect no further OCR cuts in this monetary policy cycle.""We forecast the OCR to trough at 2.25 percent until the Reserve Bank.. commences increasing the OCR in the second half of 2026," Leung said.The manufacturing sector was the most optimistic of respondents, followed by service industries.

The future of a popular swimming pontoon at Cromwell’s Alpha Street Reserve is in limbo after safety concerns forced its removal last week just months after it underwent specialist repairs.Central Otago District Council (CODC) made the call to haul the structure from the Lake Dunstan swimming area last Wednesday (January 7) after reports it was potentially taking on water.The council was alerted to the issue on Tuesday, January 6, by several members of the public.Staff were onsite that afternoon to erect emergency signage prohibiting use of the structure, before removing it entirely the following day.“Part of the pontoon appeared to be taking on water, making the structure unstable,” the CODC parks manager told The Central App on Monday.“With a large number of people using it at the same time, the added weight caused the pontoon to partially submerge and tilt significantly, creating a safety risk.”Parents at the lake while the pontoon was in use last week said they were concerned the structure could flip, or swimmers could be hit or caught underneath as it tilted out of the water at a sharp angle as people played on it. The Alpha Street pontoon appears to be taking on water, shortly before it was removed for assessment last week. Image: The Central AppThe structure is now at a contractor’s yard for assessment, but its future remains undecided.“Once the cause of the issue has been confirmed, a decision will be made on whether it will be repaired, replaced, or another solution implemented,” the parks manager said.The failure comes despite a major maintenance program carried out last year.CODC owns and maintains four swimming pontoons on Lake Dunstan - at Lowburn, Bannockburn, and Burton Creek, in addition to the one at Alpha Street - all of which were serviced approximately six months ago.“All pontoons were removed from the water during winter 2025 for inspection and repairs by a specialist contractor,” the manager said.Following those repairs, the council said the pontoons were thoroughly inspected and reinstalled in spring.All four pontoons undergo the same annual inspection cycle and, while the Alpha Street site is empty for now, the other three remain in use.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

Ranfurly residents are being asked to conserve water tomorrow and Thursday as Central Otago District Council switches from the town’s old water treatment plant to a new system.The council does not expect water supply to be interrupted during the changeover but said reducing water use would help.“To ensure the transition is smooth and the system remains stable, we are asking all residents to use water wisely on Wednesday 14 and Thursday 15 January,” the council said in a post on Facebook on Monday.Residents are being asked to pause irrigation, including lawn and paddock watering, and to limit non essential water use such as car washing and high volume outdoor cleaning.The council said keeping demand low would help crews complete critical connections and testing safely.The Ranfurly notice follows a conserve water notice issued for Naseby in late December, which council said was a precautionary response to high demand on the town’s water network during peak summer use.It also follows conserve water notices issued across several parts of the district in recent months after heavy rain increased sediment levels in surface water sources, placing pressure on existing treatment systems.Ranfurly’s upgrade is part of a wider $4.2M council project that also includes improvements to the Patearoa water treatment plant. Instead of building new treatment plants at an estimated cost of approximately $21M for Ranfurly and $15M for Patearoa, the council opted for a more cost effective solution.The upgrade includes cartridge filtration and ultraviolet treatment to provide a two-stage barrier against protozoa.Read more: Water supplies still under pressure as upgrades roll outHave a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

There has been plenty of interest in the Speargrass Inn at Fruitlands since it was put on the market in early November.Tall Poppy Central Otago owner Peter Hishon said they have received lots of enquiries nationally, but mostly from within the South Island, and Southland and Otago in particular.Owned by the Cubitt family of Dunedin since 2018, the historic building was originally built in 1870 as a hotel, and has also been used as a restaurant and gallery over the years.Alexandra locals Bert and Annette Kemp carried out an extensive renovation on it back in the mid-1980s, and people would frequent the restaurant for morning and afternoon teas.In the 1990s, it was used for birthday parties and Christmas parties, and has always been an iconic part of Central Otago.Peter said It had great potential for a wedding venue because there weren’t many other options around the district.Sandy Cubitt is an interior designer and has spent the past few years doing up the whisky room, adding new lighting and furniture, and also sealing the roof and stone walls to future proof the building.It has a rateable value of $1.09 million and comes with a gallery, the commercial kitchen and chef’s residence above with an ensuite, as well as a separate accommodation unit with three ensuite rooms, the whisky room, established trees and 4500sqm of land.Fruitlands was once a thriving community back in the early 1900s, which had two schools and the land was originally subdivided for orcharding.The Fruitlands estate originally had 40,000 apple trees planted, but according to Wikipedia, only one crop was ever exported - the hard winter frosts destroyed most of the trees.

Improving health is a common goal for many people in the new year, but where to start?Was that you I spotted at that New Year's Day group exercise class? If not, don’t worry. It’s not too late.The start of a new year is a natural time to think about health and make resolutions for science-backed habits that make a difference over months and years.Rather than extreme diets or complicated regimens, decades of research point to a handful of simple behaviours that are consistently tied to better long-term health.To start the year right, I wanted you to know the most important things you can focus on this year to improve your current physical and mental well-being and have it pay off for decades to come. And yes, I know how hard it can be to realistically follow through when motivation is low or life gets busy.Activities like taking a brisk walk or connecting with friends can improve your wellbeing over time. Unsplash / Natalia BlauthI asked CNN wellness expert Dr Leana Wen to break down five practical, evidence-based actions that can make a real difference in 2026 and beyond. Wen is an emergency physician and adjunct associate professor at George Washington University. She previously served as Baltimore's health commissioner.CNN: For your first tip, you said to prioritize regular exercise. Why does exercise matter so much for health?Dr Leana Wen: Regular physical activity is one of the most powerful tools we have for preventing chronic disease and improving quality of life. It benefits virtually every organ system in the body.Even short bouts of moderate exercise, such as brisk walking, can lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, boost mood and strengthen the heart.For adults, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week plus muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days. Even if you can’t hit those recommendations, some activity is better than none.If you do not currently exercise, start with a 5- or 10-minute brisk walk once a day; if you already walk regularly, try adding a few extra minutes at a time and increasing your pace.CNN: Your second tip is to get checkups at least annually. Why is that so important?Wen: Periodic checkups with a clinician are essential because many high-risk conditions develop silently. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes, for example, often have no obvious symptoms until they have already caused significant damage to the heart, kidneys and blood vessels. Detecting and treating these conditions early dramatically lowers the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney disease and other serious complications.Detecting and treating some conditions early can lower the risk of serious complications. Image: Unsplash / Getty ImagesA checkup gives you a chance to assess risk factors like cholesterol, glucose levels, body mass index and lifestyle habits. You also can establish monitoring or treatment plans with your provider before problems become severe. Timely treatment through lifestyle changes, medication or both can slow or even reverse disease progression.These visits also pose an important opportunity to review vaccinations. Recommendations and public messaging from federal health agencies may change, but your clinician can help you understand which vaccines are appropriate for you based on your age, health conditions and personal risk.Staying up to date on routine vaccines — such as flu, Covid-19 and others recommended for your situation — remains one of the most effective ways to prevent serious illness and protect both individual and community health.CNN: Your third tip is to get adequate sleep. Why does sleep matter as much as diet or exercise?Wen: Sleep is not optional; it's a biological necessity that affects nearly every aspect of health we care about. Without adequate sleep, your body has trouble repairing tissues, regulating hormones and managing energy balance.Research suggests that chronic insufficient sleep is linked to greater risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and mood disorders. One reason may involve hormonal regulation: Sleep deprivation increases hunger hormones and decreases satiety hormones, which can promote overeating, especially of high-calorie foods.Sleep also affects immune function and cognitive performance, so consistent rest helps us to better respond to stress and supports memory, attention and emotional regulation.Most adults benefit from seven to nine hours of sleep per night, and prioritising regular sleep schedules can improve quality over time.CNN: Your fourth tip centers on diet quality, in particular cutting out ultraprocessed foods. Why is working toward a healthier diet so important, and what steps can people take to improve nutrition?High consumption of ultraprocessed foods is linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and even depression and mental health conditions, Dr Wen says. (file image)Wen: What you eat influences your health in important ways. Ultraprocessed foods have become a dominant part of the American diet, accounting for more than half of total calories in many age groups.These foods, which include sugary drinks, packaged snacks, fast food, ready meals and sweetened cereals, are generally high in added sugars, unhealthy fats and sodium, and low in fiber, vitamins and minerals.High consumption of ultraprocessed foods is linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and even depression and mental health conditions. Replacing ultraprocessed items with whole or minimally processed foods (vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, legumes and nuts) supports both physical and mental health and helps stabilise energy, blood sugar and appetite.CNN: Your fifth tip may surprise some people: Consider social connection a core part of staying healthy.Wen: Human beings are social creatures, and our relationships have direct implications for our health.Strong social connections with family, friends, colleagues and community groups are associated with lower rates of anxiety and depression, better immune function, and reduced risk of chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes.Conversely, social isolation and loneliness have been linked to increased risk of cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline and early mortality.Social connection motivates healthier behaviours and provides emotional support during stress, and it encourages engagement in physical activity and other positive habits. Simple acts, such as going for walks with friends, regular catch-up phone calls, shared meals or other group activities, are good for short-term mental health. These interactions also represent a long-term investment in your mental and physical health.CNN: What advice do you have for people trying to follow these five tips in real life?Wen: The most important thing is to concentrate on consistency. These habits do not need to be done perfectly to have an impact.Small, repeated actions add up. For instance, walking most days is far better than exercising hard once a month.Going to regular checkups is crucial, rather than waiting until something feels wrong. Improving sleep by even 30 to 60 minutes a night can make a meaningful difference.It also helps to remember that these five areas are deeply connected.Getting enough sleep makes it easier to exercise and eat well.Regular physical activity improves sleep quality and mood.Social connection supports motivation and resilience, making it more likely that people stick with healthy routines.So instead of treating these as separate goals, think of them as reinforcing one another.Finally, give yourself permission to start where you are. Health is not built in January alone, and it is not derailed by a bad week or a missed goal. The aim is consistent progress. Choosing habits that feel realistic and sustainable, and returning to them when life gets busy, is what makes these five tips work over the long run.

Summer is the perfect time to slow down, find a patch of shade, and get lost in a good story. To inspire your own holiday reading stack, we’ve asked local booklovers to share their top picks from the past year and reveal where they’ll be curling up with a book this season.Today, we are reading with Clyde Library assistant Shelley Ludlow.1. What is a great read from 2025 you would recommend to others, and why?Shelley: One of my favourite books this year was Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid, set in the 80’s in USA at NASA. You learn and are entertained at the same time by joining in on the main character’s journey. This book is a well researched historical fiction - I was often left thinking is this actually a non-fiction book and going off to Google names and places only to find so many others had too and, no, it is fiction.Another of my favourites is a children's fiction series my youngest daughter and I have been reading together: Paddock Grove by J. P. Prose. We like to end each day on her bed catching up and then settling into a good story. This series has left us eager for book three that is coming out in June 2026. These stories have us dreaming of being with the characters at their amazing horse-riding boarding school having fun adventures with friends. My true love is children’s picture books; the beautiful illustrations and kind stories just bring such joy to all ages. Last night we read together David Walliams latest book Bot. It is so funny and reminds us to lean into love and fun and not to stress on the messing things - just laugh it off.2. What is on your summer reading list, and can you describe your perfect spot to read?Shelley: I have a large stack of amazing books at home to pour through on this wee summer break; from crafts, travel, puppy training (wish me luck he he) and a Xmas read from my all-time favourite author Jenny Colgan: The Secret Christmas Library.3. Audiobook, paper, e-reader, or a mix of the three?Shelley: For me, I love walking with our sweet puppy Luna. With one AirPod in, off we go into nature, listening to a book playing in one ear and to our local birds in the other - it is pure bliss. I’m often strolling along quietly laughing away at the humour the author has flowing throughout the story; maybe in Australia, Italy, Svalbard - somewhere far away, taking me traveling in my mind to another place on this wonderful earth. It can make a day that has been tough melt away and leave me ready to carry on lighter and more upbeat.4. Tell us about a book that changed how you think.Shelley: There are always so many amazing books to read and listen to at our local libraries, we are never at a loss for inspiration or enjoyable escapism.

Welcome to 'Central in an object', our summer series celebrating the rich history of the Central Otago district. We asked museum curators and volunteers across the region to strip it back to basics: choose just one item from their collections that tells a story about who we are. Today, Central Stories Museum and Art Gallery operations manager Paula Stephenson tells us about a bicycle that belonged to a survivor of a local industrial disaster.The objectThis object is a bicycle that once belonged to William King.While the bike itself is a standard mode of transport from its era, its owner was involved in one of Alexandra's most dramatic days.William was one of four miners trapped in a terrifying underground fire that shook the town on July 14, 1906.At the height of the gold dredging boom at the turn of the century, Central Otago relied on coal to keep things moving.There were 37 small coal mines operating in the district, feeding the hungry steam dredges working the river.On Friday, July 13, 1906, four men began the night shift in a mine on the bank of the Clutha River (then the Molyneux), less than a kilometre from Alexandra.The disaster unfolded in the early hours when the mine caught fire, trapping miners Samuel Churchill, Michael Keane, Archibald Bruce, and William deep underground.The fire was discovered at 3am by an engine driver on the surface.He was unable to raise the alarm to the men below because the wires had already burnt out, so he rushed to alert the town.The fire bell sounded at 4.30am, sending locals rushing to the scene where the mine's poppet heads and coal staging were already ablaze.The community response was immediate.A bucket brigade of 50 people formed, quickly extinguishing the fire on the surface, but they could make little impression on the roaring blaze in the shaft.A pump was secured from an adjoining dredge, and a dozen experienced engineers and rescuers worked in shifts to lower themselves into the mine.One rescuer described the searing heat of the shaft as a "living hell".Despite the extreme conditions, they managed to get the fire under control by 6pm, allowing rescuers to stay underground longer.At 8.30pm, William was pulled to the surface unconscious.Over the next few hours, the remaining three miners were also rescued, all suffering from exhaustion.By 10pm, the last rescuer emerged from the pit, marking the end of a gruelling day that would be etched into the memory of the community forever.The event, chronicled in John McCraw’s book Mine Fire: Alexandra's Day of Heroism, stands as a testament to the bravery and unity of the town.

We are continuing our ‘Five minutes with…’ summer series, where we slow the pace down to celebrate some of the people who make our district tick.We’ve put the same five questions to a range of residents to find out a bit more about who they are and get their unique take on life in our region.Today, we catch up with Bill May, a co-host at the Crow’s Nest Accommodation. Whether he's recording data at the Oturehua weather station (rain or shine), running movies at the local hall, or volunteering with Lions, Bill is a local fixture always ready to lend a hand.1. What was one of your very first jobs, and what did it teach you?Bill: The first paid job I had was as a research engineer, and one of the first jobs was to measure spray drift from an agrichemical spray event onto an ‘outdoor society’ proposed area for a recreation facility. As their policy was a ‘no clothes’ policy, it taught me to look directly into the person’s eyes when interviewing them!2. When the holiday crowds arrive, where is your secret spot to escape the heat?Bill: Walking around the Idaburn stream with my dog, aiming to have a coffee at Hannah’s Café, sharing the marshmallows that come with my coffee with the dog!3. It’s peak stone fruit season: Cherries, apricots, peaches or nectarines - you can only pick one. Which is it and what's your favourite way to eat it?Bill: It’s sliced peaches. They come in a tin from god knows where and go well on my toasted muesli!4. What is a hidden talent or weird party trick that nobody expects from you?Bill: Along with playing a snare drum in a pipe band (which most people are aware of), I play the spoons, bones and bodhran.5. Complete this sentence: "You know you’re a local in Central Otago when..."Bill: You can trace your Central Otago ancestry back two generations, and/or have lived in the region for at least 40 years. It helps if you know the lineage of older locals in the area!

Consumer NZ warns persistent sunscreen myths and misleading marketing may leave New Zealanders under-protected this summer.Consumer NZ sunscreen expert Belinda Castles said Consumer NZ’s recently updated sunscreen database is now the most comprehensive source of sunscreen information available in New Zealand, helping people make informed choices during summer.She said misleading marketing and long-held myths can result in people either overpaying for sunscreen or not getting enough protection.“Every summer I’m asked the same questions – from whether you need kids’ sunscreen, to whether higher SPFs really make a difference, as well as what sunscreen I personally use. That’s a question I’m reluctant to answer, because sunscreen’s effectiveness depends on how it is used.”“In the New Zealand environment, the best sunscreen is any you actually apply. But you have to apply it properly too – a lot and often.”She says sunscreen should never be the only line of defence.“It’s important to limit your time in the sun when the sun’s rays are most intense and to wear protective clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses.”Three sunscreen myths debunkedMyth 1: Children need a special sunscreenBelinda said many parents are surprised to learn that children don’t necessarily need a separate sunscreen.“The best protection for babies and toddlers is staying in the shade and using sun-protection clothing – as is the case for everybody.”She said sunscreens marketed specifically for children usually just have a milder base for sensitive skin.“If your child doesn’t have a problem with the family sunscreen, there's no need to fork out for one that’s marketed to or for children.”Myth 2: Higher SPF sunscreens don’t need to be reapplied as oftenBelinda said this is one of the most common misunderstandings."Many people wrongly assume that the protection of an SPF30 is double that of an SPF15. There’s also a misperception that SPF50 doesn’t need to be applied as often as SPF30.”“All sunscreens, regardless of SPF, should be reapplied every two hours while you’re outside.”She explains that SPF15 blocks about 93 percent of UVB rays, SPF30 blocks 97 percent, and SPF50 blocks 98 percent. No sunscreen blocks 100 percent of UV rays.Myth 3: A tan means you don’t need as much sunscreen“A tan is a sign that skin damage has already started,” Belinda said.“You need to be even more careful about protecting it.”She says cultural beauty ideals around being “sun-kissed” or “naturally tanned” can be misleading.“Further UV radiation considerably increases the risk of sunburn and loss of skin elasticity – resulting in wrinkled, prematurely aged, leathery skin and possibly skin cancer later in life.”Belinda is particularly concerned by a TikTok tanning trend brought to her attention by her daughter.“This dangerous trend is about achieving quick and prominent tan lines by deliberately getting sun exposure when the UV index is at its highest.”“There is no such thing as a safe tan.”What the expert looks for in sunscreenBelinda said the first thing she checks when buying sunscreen is how recently its SPF has been tested.“That’s an important consideration when buying sunscreen, given inconsistencies and lack of regulation about how often they’re tested in Aotearoa.”Because sunscreen must be reapplied every two hours, price is also a key factor for her family.“We go through a lot of sunscreen, which makes cost an important consideration too.”She said Consumer testing has shown both cheap and expensive sunscreens can meet their sun-protection claims.“Don't assume the priciest sunscreen offers the best protection.”She points to testing by Consumer’s Australian sister organisation, CHOICE, which found Ultra Violette’s Lean Screen SPF 50+ returned SPF results of just 4 and 5, despite retailing for more than $50.Consumer NZ is campaigning for mandatory ongoing sunscreen testing, after its research found some companies rely on reports that are several years old.“Our sunscreen database makes it easy for you to choose a sunscreen you can confidently rely on – you can filter by year of most recent testing and price. You can filter by SPF, water resistance and brand, too,” Belinda said.