The SPCA is urging dog owners to never leave their pets unattended in vehicles during the summer months. Animal Rehab Central veterinarian nurse Jo Shakespeare said dogs can’t cool themselves down properly, and 10 minutes is the longest they can handle the heat inside a car.SPCA Inspectors responded to a call in the Wellington region earlier this year, regarding a dog left in a car for at least an hour. The vehicle was parked in full sun, and although the outside temperature was 22°C, the temperature inside the car was significantly higher. Jo said if the outside temperature is 26degC, then it will be around 38degC inside the car.Unless dog owners left the air conditioning on in the vehicle, it was best they were left at home during hot summer days - walking on the hot pavement was also not recommended.Jo sees too many dogs left in supermarket carparks around Central during summer months, and informs staff of the vehicle number plate to find the owner.“It happens more in the holiday season.”She said some breeds such as French Bulldogs can take up to a day to cool themselves down and regulate their breathing again, if left in a hot car for too long.Owners can be fined $300 if they are found to be neglectful, and if you see a dog in distress inside a vehicle, call SPCA on 0800 SPCA NZ or contact the police immediately.Animal Rehab Central is a charity pet shop in the Centrepoint Mall in Alexandra. During the year it operates a doggy daycare and training workshops.Jo said over the Christmas and New Year period when staff are all on breaks, they allow people to drop off their pets when they are open, for an hour or two each day.Check our listing for more information on how to contact them here

Locals describe their favourite spots, and talk about why they are special to them.For Emma McLean the Nevis is layered with history, memories, wild adventures and family gold. “It’s quiet and isolated. Nevis, where the landscape feels bigger than you and time slows right down. Cold dips in the river leave you grounded and awake.”  For those wanting to learn more about the people and the land, Take Me to Nevis by Louise Joyce shares rich stories and history from the valley and its communities.The Nevis Valley was first used as a trail route by Maori people. Early European settlers farmed the valley and in 1862 gold was discovered by miners from the Dunstan goldfield.The remains of numerous stone buildings from the gold mining days offer a fascinating insight into the perseverance and ingenuity of early pioneers. The relics include everything from the cemetery and settlement buildings through to a woolshed and the first ski hut.Today only the family at Ben Nevis Station occupies the area, so it still feels very isolated. High mountain ranges rise from either side of the valley - to the west the Remarkables and Hector Mountains, and to the east the Old Woman Range. Fed by numerous creeks from the ranges, the Nevis River meanders along the broad valley floor. From Cromwell the unsealed road to Nevis Valley rises 1300 metres over Duffers Saddle before descending to run alongside the river. Nevis Valley has a lower and an upper section separated by a gorge. When the valley is not snowbound, four-wheel drive vehicles and trail bikes can continue on through the gorge and upper valley, crossing several fords before rising over the Hector Mountains to the town of Garston just south of Lake Wakatipu.

Two very Central Otago traditions are back this Sunday (December 28), with cherry pits flying in Cromwell and summer cricket on show in Alexandra.Locals and holidaymakers alike are in for a classic Southern summer weekend - from stone-spitting and family fun in Cromwell’s heritage precinct to packed embankments at Molyneux Park.The National Cherry Pit-Spit Championship returns to the gardens of McNulty House in Cromwell, with contestants aiming to out-spit past records in a competition as quirky as it is competitive.The event features age-based categories for under-6s, under-16s, adult women and adult men. There’s also a “best cherry fest dressed” contest and a colouring competition for tamariki.The current record to beat is a 15.95-metre spit, launched by Dunedin’s Tui Smith in 2023. In the women’s division, Leah Barnfield’s 9.07-metre effort stands as the top mark.Pit-spitting isn’t just a Cromwell thing. The quirky tradition is celebrated in cherry-growing towns across the globe, including annual events in Michigan, New South Wales, Germany and Canada. TheGuinness World Record stands at 28.51 metres.Meanwhile in Alexandra, domestic cricket fans will be heading to Molyneux Park, with men’s and women’s doubleheaders scheduled for both Sunday and Tuesday.Sunday’s games feature the Otago Sparks versus the Canterbury Magicians, followed by the Otago Volts against the Canterbury Kings. Tuesday brings the Sparks back against the Central Hinds,before the Volts face the Central Stags.Otago Cricket Association’s Angus Herron said the Alexandra venue is a summer favourite for players and fans alike.“We love getting into the districts,” Angus said.“It’s a different change of scenery for all of us…and the cricket is always a lot of fun to present.”Last season, Alexandra recorded the highest domestic cricket crowds in the country, thanks to strong local support and the relaxed setting of the willow-lined ground.“A hot day at Molyneux with packed banks is a picture not many associations have the privilege of seeing,” Angus said.The timing may also allow some New Zealand internationals to feature, with provincial squads often strengthened during this quieter stretch of the international calendar.To check out what's happening around Central go to The Central App What's On guide.

If you are looking to get out and about in Central Otago over the next fortnight, there are summer markets, a fishing competition on Lake Dunstan or perhaps a day at the races.The Alexandra Summer Markets are on every Saturday in Pioneer Park from 10am - 2pm over the summer season until Waitangi weekend.Organised by the ‘Four Marketeers’, a group of four women with a long involvement in markets, there are plenty of stalls selling fresh fruit, plants and crafts.New Year’s Eve in Central Otago is fairly low key compared to the Queenstown Lakes district, but there is often live music at the various pubs like the New Year’s Bash @ Station BrewingBut save some energy for daytime activities too. Grab the family, the picnic tables and rugs - Central's favourite day at the trots is on at the Omakau Racecourse - Friday January 2.Free kids entertainment, TAB, food and drinks and of course, the thundering sound of hooves on the track.Enjoy an iconic day out with the Central Otago Trotting Club (COTC) - a fun-filled family orientated day.COTC first raced in 1965 and is run by a volunteer group with great support from the local community.The event attracts some of the top pacers from around the South Island, the highlight of a great program of harness races.The Omakau Trots cater for all ages with free children's entry and entertainment, a Fashion in the Field contest, plenty of food and beverage stalls, and of course, some "edge of your seat" racing.Check out our listing on What's On ‘what’s on’ for more details.If being on the water is more your thing, then perhaps sign up for the Lake Dunstan 14th annual fishing competition, hosted by the Cromwell Town & Country ClubEntries must be received by noon on the day of the event and the weigh-in starts at 4:00 PM on Friday, January 2.All participants must hold a valid New Zealand sports fishing license and comply with the Sports Fishing Regulations for the Otago Region. For things to do and all the great activities around Central Otago go to The Central App Things to do 'section.For a Leisurely Lunch or Vineyard VibesCarrick Winery & Restaurant (Bannockburn): Perfect for a "Trust the Chef" long lunch. It overlooks the Bannockburn inlet and offers a relaxed, organic dining experience right on the edge of the Lake Dunstan Trail.Monte Christo Winery (Clyde): Recently restored and stunningly beautiful. It’s a great spot for an elegant afternoon of wine tasting and light bites in a historic setting.The Stoaker Room (Cromwell): Famous for their unique barrel-cooked food. It’s very laid-back—ideal for those who want hearty, smoky flavors and a craft beer.The Packing Shed: Open for lunch only, and a must visit over summer!For Brunch & CoffeeTin Goose (Alexandra): A local favorite with a bright, buzzy atmosphere. Their cabinet is legendary, and it’s a great sun-trap for a slow morning.Olivers Restaurant & Bar (Clyde): Located in a beautifully restored 1869 complex. You can enjoy a sophisticated brunch in the cafe or a more formal dinner in the restaurant.Forage Cafe @ The Gate (Cromwell): Great for families or a quick, high-quality recharge with plenty of space to stretch out.Store 103 (Roxburgh): Located in the heart of the Teviot Valley, this spot is part sophisticated cafe and part curated gift shop. It’s been a community staple since 1995.For Drinks & DinnerThe Finery (Alexandra): A newer venue with a dedicated whiskey room and an outdoor area, including a playground. It’s perfect for a social evening or a celebratory dinner.Danseys Pass Hotel: If you’re up for a short drive, this historic stone hotel offers an incredible "getaway" feel with a locally sourced dinner menu.Chatto Creek Tavern: is a quintessential Central Otago experience. Located right on the Otago Central Rail Trail (about 17km from Alexandra), this historic stone and mud-brick pub has been a sanctuary for travelers since 1886.Since it's currently the peak of summer (late December), I highly recommend using The Central App to check for holiday hours or to book ahead, as many of these popular spots fill up quickly with holiday makers and cherry-pickers! Eat - Drink - Stay

Wasps are out in full force again this summer, keeping pest control services busy over the warmer months.Cromwell-based Mountain View Cleaning and Pest Control director Steve Churchill said they have fielded a huge amount of inquiries this summer already, “and it’s only going to get worse.”Warm weather brings out several species, including the Asian Paper Wasp, German/European Wasp, Common Wasp, and Australian Paper Wasp. Left untreated, nests can grow quickly and become aggressive, especially around outdoor areas, eaves, and rooflines.A German honey comb wasp nest. file shot.Steve said the German Wasp loved protein and could smell meat cooking from kilometres away.One nest he recently found had 15,000 German wasps inside, and they also gave the worst stings.The past few winters have been warmer in Central Otago, enabling wasps to survive and keeping the breeding cycle continuing.A beekeeper by trade, he said interestingly this season they haven’t seen as many German Wasps, with Asian Paper Wasps making up 90% of their work.He said they had been fielding up to five phone calls a day about wasps since Spring, and his team of 18 was available 24/7 right through Christmas and New Year for anybody needing help getting rid of them.Wasps have more of a menacing and aggressive appearance compared to the humble honey bee, predominantly with a bright yellow body and either black stripes or black dots. Burton Creek picnic area near the Clyde Rowing Club has been particularly bad the past few summers, causing some people to abandon their barbecues and head home.Burton Creek is owned by Contact Energy and head of hydro Boyd Brinsden said together with the Central Otago District Council, who own the rubbish bins, they are monitoring the area, and encourage any members of the public concerned about wasp nests to get in touch with [email protected] 

Free drug checks in Wanaka and Queenstown will kick off again this summer thanks to support from the Queenstown Lakes District Council. KnowYourStuffNZ provides drug related harm reduction services at events around New Zealand, including drug checking. The result of every test is recorded and each year they collate their results across the event season, analysing:what people thought they hadwhat they actually had, andwhat decisions they made about taking the substanceKnowYourStuffNZ started offering the service in Queenstown Lakes back in 2022, and this year they’ll also be at Rhythm and Alps in Cardrona for the first time.General manager Casey Spearin said from their testing nationally, about one in 10 samples “are not what they were presumed to be.”The substances most commonly brought to them were presumed to be:MDMA (60%)Dissociatives such as ketamine (12%),Unknown substances (8%)Indoles such as LSD or psilocybin/mushrooms (7%)Casey said across the clinics they ran last year, about 30 samples came in Wānaka and about 10 in Queenstown. “Our Wānaka team ended up staying open several hours later than scheduled as there were more clients than expected.”Six percent of samples were not what people thought they were. “These samples either contained an extra psychoactive substance along with the desired substance, or were something else entirely.”He said that didn’t include samples brought to them as unknown, or samples that had "fillers" (substances that are generally considered harmless or low harm e.g. creatine, caffeine, paracetamol).“Though it's very worth noting that depending on the person's health and other medications they are on, fillers can pose a risk of harm. Clients are always informed if we have detected fillers in theirsample.”In terms of substitutions, they did detect a number of risky substances, for instance 4-chloromethcathinone and eutylone (synthetic cathinones, often sold as MDMA).  KnowYourStuffNZ will be holding clinics in Wanaka on Sunday December 28 at the Lake Wanaka Centre from 10:30am-4:30pm, and at the Queenstown Memorial Centre on Saturday December 27from 1pm-4pm.Further clinics will be held in the New Year in Wanaka on January 9 and March 13, and in Queenstown on February 13. 

Central Otago employers are being urged to double-check their rosters and trading statuses this week, as the Labour Inspectorate issues a pre-Christmas reminder regarding holiday pay and restricted trading laws.With the region entering its busiest period for horticulture and hospitality, Labour Inspectorate head of compliance and enforcement Jeanie Borsboom said it is vital business owners understand which days they can legally open.Under the Shop Trading Hours Act 1990, almost all retail shops must close on Christmas Day. However, the rules affecting inland Otago are nuanced due to the region's heavy reliance on tourism and essential services.While Queenstown holds a broad area exemption allowing most retailers to trade, businesses in the rest of Central Otago must rely on specific category exemptions to open their doors on December 25. Permitted businesses include dairies, petrol stations, pharmacies, restaurants, cafes, and hairdressers.Jeanie warns shops falling outside these specific exemption categories are committing an offence if they trade on restricted days, and shops are responsible for self-assessing if they meet the criteria.The Inspectorate is also highlighting strict rules around pay.Employees working on any of the four statutory holidays - Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day, and January 2 - must be paid at least time-and-a-half for the hours worked. If the public holiday falls on a day the employee would normally work, they are also entitled to a paid alternative holiday, commonly known as a day in lieu.Staff who do not work the public holiday, but for whom it would be a normal working day, are entitled to their relevant daily pay.For businesses planning a summer shutdown, employers can require staff to take annual leave, but must have provided at least 14 days’ written notice. Public holidays falling during a closedown period must still be paid if they fall on a day that would otherwise be a working day for the staff member.Further details on closedowns and "otherwise working days" for casual staff can be found on the Employment New Zealand website.

Owner of The Central App Vicki McLean is wishing Central Otago readers a Merry Christmas, with a simple message about kindness and making space for others at the table. “Know that everybody’s in a different part of their journey who’s gathering with you today,” Vicki said. She said Christmas can be difficult for some people, particularly after a tough year or for those with mixed feelings about the season, and she encouraged people to be mindful of that when spendingtime with family, friends or wider community groups. “Whether you’re with friends, family, people you don’t know, people you’re getting to know, the church, lunch, wherever you are, just be kind to the person sitting next to you,” she said. Vicki will spend Christmas Day this year in a rented holiday house in Kakanui, continuing a long-running family tradition. The group, made up of 10 adults and eight dogs, includes parents, siblings, an aunty visiting from Australia and partners, gathering together for four days by the coast. “We have a very casual, informal Christmas,” she said. Renting a house allows the family to bring their dogs, who Vicki describes as “our babies”, and avoids placing the burden of hosting on any one household. Christmas day food responsibilities are divided up across the group. The Central App owner Vicki McLean and her ‘babies’ ready for festivities. Image: Supplied Vicki and her partner Fraser are in charge of Christmas morning brunch, and on the menu are a large serve of sausages, new potatoes, bacon and egg bake, and an avocado and salmon platter. “There’s a selection for everyone, you know, depending on if you’re really hungry or just needing a nibble,” she said. The main Christmas meal generally sees a feast including lamb, ham, salmon and chicken contributed by different family members, followed by a Secret Santa exchange planned weeks in advance. Extended family gatherings have featured in Vicki’s Christmas since childhood, when the day centred around her grandmother. “Nana would always put on the big Christmas lunch for everybody – so all the family, the cousins, would all get together,” she said. This year’s Christmas wish? While the world outside remains uncertain, Vicki’s focus is on the people within reach. "There’s a lot of challenges going on in the world right now, and I feel very blessed and fortunate to have the people I love around me this Christmas,“A simple reminder that in a world of challenges, being together is the greatest gift of all,” she said.

Central Otago will officially have a by-election, with three nominations for the council Vincent ward seat coming in at the 11th hour.The Central Otago District Council will operate with one fewer councillor until early March, after councillor-elect Dave McKenzie resigned days after the election result.Louise van der Voort, who narrowly missed out on the Vincent ward seat by just 33 votes behind Dave, said she is committed to Central Otago and believes her skills can help council achieve the best for its communities. With 20 years on the executive at CODC and seven years on the Board of Taituarā, her statement says she has a strong grasp of the key issues facing local government.“Central government is currently implementing significant reforms that will impact local decision making. “Regional arrangements could dilute the community voice and more uniformity may not suit rural communities. “Council must stay connected with residents to ensure their views are heard on the challenges ahead including reform, affordability, and growth, and find opportunities to deliver efficiency, equity and value.”Local businessman Nat Jamieson is also in the running. Originally from Southland, he and his wife moved to Central Otago for the opportunities it had to offer. “I strongly believe in giving back. I currently coach the Matakanui Mudfish Senior Rugby team and volunteer with the Clyde Coastguard, contributing to community safety, teamwork, and connection. “Outside of this, I enjoy involvement with the Chatto Creek Motorcycle Club and the Alexandra Districts Bowling Club.”Nat said he is passionate about supporting sustainable growth for Central Otago—“growth that retains our people, supports local businesses, and makes our region more affordable. I want to help ensure Central Otago remains a thriving, inclusive place for future generations.”The third candidate is Andrew Dowling who is from Ranfurly and now living in Alexandra, working as a veterinarian.In his statement Andrew said he listens to all sides and makes decisions that best suit the community to then get things done.“I’m committed to make sure our council listens to locals and acts for the long term good of Central Otago.”“We need to attract young, skilled people as our future while also looking after those already residing here. “Affordability is an issue; consult, invest and spend appropriately to ensure resources fit the needs of our communities and enable businesses, both urban and rural, to thrive.”Central Otago Mayor Tamah Alley said the number of nominations reflects a healthy interest in local democracy."It’s great to see such a strong interest in representing the Vincent Ward."Having a range of candidates gives our residents a real choice in who they want to see advocating for their interests at the Council table. I encourage everyone in the ward to take the time to look at the candidate profiles and, most importantly, to make sure they cast their vote when papers arrive in late January."Residents will be sent voting documents on Friday January 30, and voting closes at midday on March 3, with official results due the next day.

New Zealand Food Safety (NZFS) is urging residents to "nail the basics" in the kitchen in the coming weeks, warning that food poisoning cases typically spike during the summer holiday period.As Central Otago residents head outdoors for barbecues, camping trips, and holiday feasts, NZFS deputy-director general Vincent Arbuckle has provided some tips to help keep illness off the holidaymenu."No one wants to spend their holiday sick or knowing that they have made others ill from food," Vincent said."Fortunately, keeping safe is easy. Nail the basics, and you will be set up to enjoy your events confident that your food is safe for everyone."One of the primary warnings this season addresses a common kitchen habit: washing raw chicken.According to NZFS, washing poultry does not make it safer. Instead, it spreads harmful bacteria around the kitchen through splashing water, increasing the risk of cross-contamination on surfaces andother foods.The advice is to pat chicken dry with a paper towel - disposing of the towel immediately - and to ensure hands and surfaces are washed thoroughly with hot soapy water after handling raw meat.For those firing up the barbecue, the critical threshold for cooked meat is 75°C."If you don’t have a thermometer, turn chicken, pork, and sausages often so they cook evenly, and juices run clear," Vincent said.Residents are advised to use separate utensils and plates for raw and cooked meats to avoid cross-contamination.With large Christmas meals often resulting in days of leftovers, strict rules apply to reheating and storage.The "two-hour rule" is paramount: get leftovers into the fridge within two hours of cooking. In Central Otago's summer heat, leaving food out longer significantly increases bacterial growth.Some specific advice has been issued for high-risk foods:Uncooked rice can contain bacterial spores that survive cooking. If left at room temperature, these spores can produce toxins that are not destroyed by reheating. Refrigerate rice dishes within twohours and eat within two days.A leftover whole ham stored in a ham bag will last up to seven days in the fridge.Salads containing raw leafy greens should be eaten immediately or thrown out; they can carry bacteria that grow even in the fridge."When in doubt, chuck them out," Vincent said.For those travelling to cribs or campgrounds, NZFS advises using chilly bins with ice packs for transporting food.

Close to 80 people gathered at Lowburn Hall last week for a community Christmas celebration that has brought neighbours together for decades. The hall, which is community-owned and sits on the edge of the Lowburn Inlet, hosted residents from across the valley for a shared potluck dinner. The volunteer committee that runs the hall also provided a Christmas ham. Long-time residents Laurie and Anne McAuley said the event was already well established when they arrived in the valley in 1990. “There are far more people now; it’s just so lovely to see all the community coming together,” Anne said. She said it was particularly special to see young families and new faces at the annual gathering, as that helped shore up the future of the event. “It’s a brilliant little community,” she said. Boys versus girls and parents versus kids as the annual tug of war contests continue for another year. Images: The Central App Santa makes an appearance for a lolly scramble at Lowburn. Image: The Central App “It’s nice to see new people and it’s lovely because that means it’s going to continue,” she said. Her husband Laurie said the Lowburn celebration stood out because it brought whole families together at a busy time of year. He said while parents often attend work functions in the lead-up to Christmas, the Lowburn gathering was one where children and adults shared the occasion. Lowburn farmer and hall committee chair Jack Davis said the Christmas party dated back to before the dam was built. He recalled a campground near the old Lowburn Bridge where early celebrations were held before the area was flooded. A long-running feature of the event is the tug of war, with a rope supplied again this year for a series of friendly battles. The competition saw boys take on girls before families joined in, with parents narrowly winning the final round against the children. A Christmas tree cut from a nearby property was decorated with tinsel and lights, and Santa made an appearance to hand presents out to the children. The afternoon also included a lolly scramble and sack races. 

Snoopy’s Christmas.Former Central Otago Deputy Mayor and staunch Cromwellian Neil Gillespie has always loved Snoopy’s Christmas, “because it is the epitome of Christmas,” and he knows it winds some people up, but he enjoys the message the song brings.“Love is not the right word to describe what I think about this song, but I ‘get it.’ It’s the story of Christmas and humanity.”Where Were You (When The World Stopped Turning) - Alan Jackson.An important song in reflection of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Centre in New York.  “It’s a really powerful song to me, and follows along the same theme of humanity,” he said.Neil and I were talking about the important message in this song just a day after the terrorist attack on Bondi Beach in Australia.Goodbye Earl - The Dixie Chicks (now just The Chicks).A big fan of country music, Neil has seen The Dixie Chicks perform live - they have since dropped the middle part out of their name - changing to just The Chicks in June 2020 to distance themselves from the word ‘Dixie,’ which carries connotations of the Confederate South, slavery, and segregation, especially in the context of growing racial justice movements like Black Lives Matter. “The song is about a bad bastard and they dealt to him,” Neil said. Nuff said. Have a listen for yourself.

Christmas is a time of gathering, and the annual community Christmas Day barbecue in Alexandra creates space for people to celebrate together.Held every year at St Enoch’s Church by the Alexandra Clyde Lauder Union Parish, there are already 80 people registered for the Christmas Day lunch, but there is always room for more.Reverend Andrew Howley said everyone was welcome, but by registering online at www.alexchurch.org.nz/Christmasday ensures the volunteers will be well prepared. “We encourage everyone to register because we don’t want people to miss out.”One Christmas Eve the team had to make a mad dash to the supermarket at the last minute, to buy more chicken for the barbecue kebabs, after a last minute influx of 20 people joined.On the menu this year will be chicken and beef burgers, ham, sausages and salads, as well as pavlova and cheesecake.The food is all supplied by the Alexandra Rotary and cooked on the barbecue by the Alexandra Lions.Andrew said a number of families with children will be joining this year, along with older couples and widowers on their own, as well as single parents who were doing it tough after relationship breakups.“And a lot of these people volunteer and help out too. It’s all about people, food and fellowship.”

There is a pretty good chance it will rain on Christmas Day in Central Otago, but if we’re lucky the temperature might still reach 18 degC.MetService meteorologist Alec Holden said there will be rolling showers on and off over the course of the day, “but if you are brave you could still get out and have a barbecue.”He said New Zealand in general has been experiencing a lot of westerly winds in recent weeks, more typical of spring weather than summer.“A lot of that is from the South West, bringing with it more colder air masses.”There hasn't been a lot of activity on Lake Dunstan, and those that have braved the water for a swim say the temperature is still pretty cool.“I don’t like your chances of your lakes heating up in the next week,” Alex said.The westerly flow is likely to be sticking around for a while yet, and at least into the weekend across Otago, and MetService said it was not going to be particularly warm anywhere.“It’s definitely not what you would expect Xmas time to be like in Central Otago. It’s very unseasonable.”Looking further into the early New Year, Alec said it was still too early to say how the weather will be for those heading away camping and boating.The weather is similar to 2024 where there was a real mixture of warm and wet days over the Christmas/New Year period.For the latest weather reports on Central Otago towns, check out our weather page.

A Cromwell cherry orchard will open its rows to the public on Christmas Eve, continuing a seasonal tradition that has become a fixture for many Central Otago families. The pick-your-own event will run from early afternoon until early evening at The Mathsone on Pearson Road, offering a low-key alternative to last-minute Christmas shopping. Orchardist Sam Matheson, who runs the property with her partner Linden Breakstone, said the decision to open the orchard was driven by a desire to see the fruit enjoyed by consumers closer tohome.“We’ve decided not to do export...and just look after the locals,” Sam said. The Christmas Eve opening has been running for several years, but this season has seen increased interest, leaving Sam with her fingers crossed her parking plan will suffice.“People will reach out in July and August asking if we’re doing cherries for Christmas,” she said. Sam said cherries held strong associations with childhood and family gatherings in Central Otago, even for people who no longer lived there.“It's like a childhood thing. They always remember going and picking cherries or eating cherries at Christmas time." A new generation of cherry pickers is now making those memories, with many families locking the visit into their Christmas calendar alongside other seasonal rituals. “We try to make it really family friendly,” Sam said. Cherries and Christmas go together in Central Otago, Sam say. Image: SuppliedShe recalled one family of returning customers who have made the trip from Queenstown in recent years. “All of them come in white shirts,” she said.By the end of the visit, she said, the shirts are usually covered in cherry juice. “Hopefully they’ll be coming this year,” she said.On Christmas Day itself things would be quieter for Sam’s household, with the orchard closed. “On Christmas Day we plan to just relax and actually enjoy eating the cherries,” she said.

Anglers fishing Lake Dunstan this summer may notice rangers asking a few extra questions, as Otago Fish & Game launches a new survey to monitor the long term health of the popular local fishery.The lake has been added to Otago Fish & Game’s fisheries monitoring programme, with staff and volunteer rangers beginning creel surveys during the peak summer season.Creel surveys involve interviewing anglers on the water and around the lake shore to gather information on fishing activity, catch rates and overall experiences.Fish & Game officer Cole Briggs said the Lake Dunstan survey marked an expansion of monitoring work already underway on other Central Otago lakes.“The Lake Dunstan creel survey has been a great opportunity to get out on the lake and meet local licence holders who regularly fish there,” Cole said.“We expect to meet many more anglers on this popular lake over the summer holidays.“The data we collect will help us manage the fishery for our licence holders to enjoy for years to come.”Similar surveys have been carried out on Lakes Hāwea and Wānaka over the past six years, with three years of monitoring completed on each lake.During the surveys, Fish & Game staff and rangers collect data on hours fished, fishing methods, species targeted, numbers of fish caught and anglers’ overall satisfaction, which is used to assess the condition of the fishery.Each month includes four survey days, split between weekends and weekdays, with randomly selected launch times to ensure the data reflects a wide range of fishing activity.Early survey efforts on Lake Dunstan have coincided with challenging weather conditions.“We’ve had wild weather throughout spring and early summer,” Cole said.“Strong winds and high flows have deposited logs and sediment into the lower sections of the lake, creating less than ideal fishing conditions at times.“However, when conditions have settled, anglers have enjoyed the good fishing opportunities Lake Dunstan provides.”Alongside the surveys, Fish & Game rangers will also be out in greater numbers over the holiday period carrying out licence checks and offering advice to anglers.“Be prepared to present your fishing licence when you meet a ranger,” Cole said.“You’re required to always carry a valid licence when fishing.”Fish & Game said anglers who have not yet received a physical licence can present a screenshot of their licence on their phone, along with a secondary form of identification.Otago Fish & Game manages and monitors waterways and wetlands across the region, including both native and introduced species, to support healthy and sustainable fisheries.

Cultural narratives are taking shape at Cromwell’s new lakeside community facility, with mana whenua design elements now visible following the removal of scaffolding from the building on the banks of the Kawarau River.A prominent angled pole beside the main entrance has drawn attention, representing Tūwhakarōria, the giant kō or digging stick of Rākaihautū, a Kāi Tahu–Waitaha tipuna, chief and captain of the ancient Uruao waka, credited with shaping Te Waipounamu.According to tradition, Rākaihautū used his kō to carve out the inland lakes and rivers of the South Island, with the displaced earth forming the surrounding mountain ranges.The lakes were foretold as places of abundance, freezing glacial waters, and later, waterways shaped by people, known as he puna karikari.The new hall and events centre sits near rivers feeding into Lake Dunstan, one of those man-made waterways created by the Clyde Dam on the Clutha/Mata-Au.These waterways are poetically referred to as Kā Puna Karikari o Rākaihautū, the springs dug by Rākaihautū’s hand.The kō is a central cultural feature developed from narratives provided by mana whenua and integrated into the building’s design by mana whenua-owned design team Aukaha – Mana Ahurea.At a presentation to the Cromwell Community Board on Tuesday November 25, Paulette Tamati-Elliffe, of Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou, outlined the values behind the cultural design integration.“When we look inland to the beautiful landscape, the great lakes, the stunning mountain ranges, where the water flows from into those rivers, we are reminded that Central Otago is the cradle of our creation narratives. Those mountains and waters are our ancestors. Our whakapapa connects us to these places,” Ms Tamati-Elliffe said.“In the cultural design integration of the Cromwell facility, we wanted to bring the first people of this whenua to the visual realm. They are the descendants of Te Kāhui Waitaha, the earliest people of this land and descendants of Rākaihautū and many of the names of those descendants are embedded in the landscapes in Central Otago to this day.”Aukaha – Mana Ahurea design lead Aroha Novak said the significance of the narrative required specialist expertise, leading to the involvement of Kāi Tahu artists Fayne Robinson and Andre Te Hira.“For instance, the kō, Tūwhakarōria, pierces through the ceiling of the entrance way to the Events Centre and will be a beacon of light – literally. It will be illuminated at the centre as a wayfinding signal,” Ms Novak said.“It’s a statement of mana and it has been such a privilege working with mana whenua, Central Otago District Council, Jasmax and SA Studio to embed this important narrative into the design integration of the building.”Cromwell Community Board chair Anna Harrison said the cultural narrative flowed throughout the building and reflected the stories that shaped Cromwell and the wider Central Otago region.“This building design really is so unique to Central Otago and carries such a significant narrative. It will bring so much value to Cromwell and the wider Central Otago region. I hope the community feels really proud of this.”The facility has so far carried the working title Cromwell Memorial Hall and Events Centre, with a formal name yet to be confirmed.Central Otago Mayor Tamah Alley said the council’s Open Spaces Naming Policy would guide the process.“Our Open Spaces Naming Policy gives clear guidance for naming in both English and Te Reo Māori. It’s about more than names—it’s about partnership. The policy emphasises engagement with mana whenua, supports Te Reo names, and encourages dual naming so we can honour our cultural heritage while being practical.”"Across New Zealand, we see great examples of this approach—Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre, Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre, and Toitū Otago Settlers Museum. These show how names can reflect identity and history while serving the community.""We’ll start this conversation with a workshop on 4 February ahead of the Cromwell Community Board meeting. That will kick off consultation through March, with anticipation an English name recommendation going to Council in April.”To find out more about the project go to: Cromwell Memorial Hall & Events Centre | Let’s Talk Central Otago.or click here 

Matakanui Gold Limited has asked the expert panel assessing its Bendigo-Ophir Gold Project to stick to an expedited 30-working-day decision timeframe, pushing back against suggestions the process could take up to 120 days.The request was made in a memorandum filed on December 12, responding to comments from panel convener Jane Borthwick that the scale and complexity of the approximately 9,400-page application could require a longer assessment period.Through legal counsel, Matakanui Gold said the project fits within the intent of the government’s Fast-track Approvals Act 2024, which was designed to accelerate nationally significant infrastructure and development projects.The company said a shorter decision-making timeframe aligns with amendments currently progressing through parliament and reflects the “robust and comprehensive” nature of its application.Counsel said the project does not raise a level of complexity that would justify extending the decision-making period beyond the maximum timeframe set out by the fast-track legislation, despite the application seeking approximately 10 separate approvals supported by 135 technical reports.Matakanui Gold, a subsidiary of Santana Minerals, said it has been actively engaging with the Central Otago District Council, Otago Regional Council, and iwi to resolve issues early and reduce the number of matters requiring determination by the expert panel.“The thorough and comprehensive substantive application was specifically prepared to facilitate efficient decision-making without compromising quality,” counsel said in the memorandum.The company is seeking a decision at the “shorter end” of the allowable range, which would see the panel reach a conclusion within 30 working days.The proposed timeframe has drawn criticism from community groups, including Sustainable Tarras, which has previously welcomed the suggestion of a longer assessment period. The group has argued the mine could have intergenerational and irreversible impacts and should not be rushed.Sustainable Tarras has also raised concerns about transparency in the fast-track process and cited public comments from Regional Development Minister Shane Jones as evidence of political pressure to advance the project.If approved, the Bendigo-Ophir mine would be one of the largest new gold developments in New Zealand in decades, with projected production of approximately 120,000 ounces of gold a year over a 14-year mine life. A conference has been scheduled for January 15 to discuss the differing expectations around the assessment timeframe, and Matakanui Gold has confirmed it will attend.Read more: Panel signals gold mine decision delay

As the holidays approach, many of us return to families with values that no longer align with our own. Here’s how to spot the legacy culture at play, and shift from silence to 'high accountability' communication.We talk often about “organisational culture,” but less about the culture of the first organisation we ever belong to – our family.Christmas Day can be a high pressure environment. It often reactivates childhood norms that clash with the modern values we now live by. The legacy culture we were raised in may feel increasingly out of step with our present day lives.The legacy of the transactional childhoodFor decades, both businesses and families operated on a transactional model. You were rewarded for staying silent, for performing your role, or for meeting expectations.Harmony was valued over honesty. But in today’s communication landscape, that model is redundant. We’re now shifting toward a more transformational culture – one that values self-awareness, inherent worth, and accountability.The discomfort you feel during the holidays may not be personal. It might just be a Lens Gap – different generations interpreting the same environment through completely different cultural filters. In the workplace, we’d call this a misalignment. In families, we call it Christmas.Tool 1: Strategic disengagement – “Let them”Communications expert Mel Robbins has a powerful framework called the “Let Them” theory. The principle is simple: you cannot control how someone interprets your life. If a relative clings to an outdated version of you, let them. You are not responsible for someone else’s cultural “upskilling.” Your emotional energy is better spent with people who meet you in the present.Tool 2: High accountability communication – “Call it”While we can let people have their opinions, we don’t have to let those opinions pollute the environment. Silence in the face of bias – whether racist, gendered or religious – can act as an unspoken co-signature.One effective technique is the Mirror Question:“What did you say?”“I don’t think I understand the joke – can you explain why that’s funny?”This tactic forces the speaker to hear their own words, stripped of your silence. If it lands awkwardly, that’s theirs to process, not yours to manage.Family audit: legacy or transformational culture?Try this self-check during your next gathering. Are you sitting in a transactional or transformational culture?The Red Flag (Transactional) ----- The Green Flag (Transformational)You edit yourself to keep the peace. ............ You speak openly without fear of retaliation.You are valued for what you do. ............ You are valued for who you are.“That’s how we’ve always done it.” ................ “We’re open to growing together.”“You’re too sensitive.” ................. “Thanks for pointing that out.”Love is conditional on performance .................... Love is constant – it doesn’t need to be earned.If most of your experience falls into the Red Flag column, it’s not just a communication issue, it’s a culture issue. In business, we’d call it a toxic workplace. In a family, we often call it tradition.Three tips for a clearer holiday seasonAudit your boundaries: If the cost of keeping the peace is your integrity, the price is too high.Stop the reward loop: You don’t owe anyone a version of yourself that no longer fits.Be the mirror: Ask reflective questions. Disruption is part of growth.Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a restful holiday period filled with the kind of clarity and connection that feels true to who you are today. May your season be defined by mutual respect, genuine presence, and the courage to be your own best advocate.Disclaimer:This article is shared with the intention of empowering you and providing helpful communication tools for the holidays. However, please remember that these strategies are for general guidance and reflection.Every family dynamic is unique. If you are dealing with deep seated trauma, safety concerns, or relationships that feel overwhelming, please prioritise your own well-being above all else. These tools are meant to support your growth, but they are not a replacement for the personalised care and expertise of a professional therapist or counselor. We encourage you to reach out to a mental health professional if you need a safe space to navigate your specific journey.Support Services Useful Numbers