The independent panel assessing the massive Bendigo-Ophir gold mine has signalled its decision will likely take longer than the standard timeframe the fast-track law allows.Panel head Jane Borthwick put out a formal request (called a Minute) on Tuesday (December 9), asking the mine’s developer, Matakanui Gold Limited, a subsidiary of Santana Minerals, if it wouldagree to an extension.The mine is going through the government’s special fast-track consenting process for its planned open cast and underground mine in the hills above Cromwell.Jane said the decision process needs more time because the proposal is large and complex. Under the recently updated fast-track rules, the expert panel must make a decision within a maximum of 90 working days unless the applicant - in this case Matakanui Gold - agrees to a longertimeframe. However, Jane said her initial assessment suggests more time may be needed. "Based on the information before me, the scale, nature, and complexity of the application suggest that a timeframe exceeding 90 working days may be warranted," she said in the Minute. She suggested a timeframe of 110 to 120 working days, citing the sheer volume of the application, which includes 10 approvals sought, 22 proposed management plans and 10 sets of conditions.A 90-day decision would be due on July 28, if the panel begins its work at the start of February as planned, while a 120-day timeframe would push the final decision out to September 8. Jane said she will be "seeking views on this matter before forming a concluded view". Matakanui Gold Limited was directed to respond to the request by Friday (December 12), and at the time of publication no response had been uploaded to the government’s fast-track projects website. The request to extend the timeframe received approval from local protest group Sustainable Tarras."Against the background of Santana executives trying to speed up the process, reduce community involvement and minimise environmental protections, plus [Regional Development Minister] ShaneJones placing pressure on all involved to speed up and 'dig baby dig', this is welcome news," the group wrote on Facebook.  "The decision to proceed with this mine will have intergenerational and irreversible impacts. The panel needs sufficient time and space to consider all aspects of the application, and to make aconsidered decision." The Bendigo-Ophir mine, if approved, would be the largest new gold development in New Zealand in more than a generation. The company’s application, lodged at the start of November, includes nearly 9,400 pages of documents and 135 technical reports.Santana Minerals chief executive Damian Spring has said the milestone reflected “years of serious technical work and deep environmental assessment by New Zealand experts”.  The company anticipates the mine would produce up to 120,000 ounces of gold a year over a 14-year life, generating $5.8b in GDP and hundreds of jobs.Read more: Sustainable Tarras: fast-track process stacked in favour of miners and Santana lodges fast-track bid for Bendigo gold project 

Construction on the cycle trail linking Cromwell and Queenstown is advancing, with an opening date now scheduled for early 2026.Southern Lakes Trails announced the Kawarau Gorge Trail is expected to open towards the end of the summer season, around the end of the first quarter.Alongside the timeline update, the trust outlined specific risks associated with the route.Officials stated the trail is a backcountry experience in complex terrain and will not be a “simple walk in the park".Users will need to be prepared for a remote environment with few exit points. The trust said once on the trail, the only options will be to return the way users came, continue forward, or be evacuated by helicopter in emergencies.Three new suspension bridges - spanning 108 metres, 82 metres, and 70 metres - will be constructed early next year, with the sequencing designed to discourage public access into partially completed sections.Southern Lakes Trails chair Aaron Halstead outlined the engineering achievements in the gorge to date to provide future access for recreational users."The team is continually amazed by the innovation and dedication of the crew, who are meeting challenges head on by building bridges across a major river without easy access, helicoptering diggers into location, building bluff bridges capable of carrying machinery and creating a trail around one of the gnarliest highway bluffs in the region," Aaron said.He said the team is constructing stacked stone abutments and shaping the trail to sit naturally within the terrain.Aaron said they were "following the path of the early settlers, preserving and enhancing the ecology and working with the terrain to build a trail that will last for generations".Early modelling suggests the trail could exceed the rider numbers of the Lake Dunstan Trail, which attracted 80,000 riders in its first year.Southern Lakes Trails chief executive Janeen Wood described the project as a generational investment."The team can't wait to deliver this world class trail to locals, visitors and the wider biking community,” Janeen said.“The Kawarau Gorge Trail is a giant leap towards a unified regional trail network.”To support the long-term stewardship of the asset, the trust is expanding its "Track Pack" supporter programme to help fund maintenance.Janeen said that "for everyday trail users - riders, runners and walkers - this is their chance to pay it forward".

The Central Otago District Council has begun shaping its next Long Term Plan, launching a three-year process that will guide how the district grows from 2027 to 2037.Workshops with elected members are now underway, with the Teviot Community Board the first to begin discussions, on Thursday this week.Chief financial officer Paul Morris led the session, asking members to think ahead about how they want their communities to develop over the next decade, and what ideas could help get them there.A large part of the workshop focused on ‘Rates 101.’ Paul highlighted the complexity of rating, noting that the council deals with over 15,000 properties, each subject to a "multitude of different outcomes".The council’s average rates increase for 2026 is set at 7.5%, and he addressed the Government’s proposed 4% rates cap, which he explained is not yet law but could influence future planning.The LTP (2027-2037) process includes several major milestones before the final document is adopted in June 2027.A full rates review is scheduled for June 2026, followed by community consultation. Budgets for the 2027–2037 period are due in August 2026, but the final audit and sign-off of the LTP won’t happen until mid-2027.The next workshop will be held with the Vincent Community Board on Monday at 3pm and will be live-streamed. More workshops for all elected members will take place at the first council meeting of the New Year.The council said these early workshops are designed to start long-term thinking before wider public engagement begins next year. Community input will form a significant part of the drafting process as the district plans for future growth, infrastructure, services and investment.The LTP will set the direction for the next decade, balancing financial pressures, legislative changes and the needs of Central Otago’s communities.

Some simple, evidence-based strategies will help you navigate the Christmas party season without relying on will power alone.December is a perfect storm for anyone trying to cut back on drinking. Between end-of-year deadlines, work parties, family gatherings and school events, alcohol is suddenly everywhere.It can make drinking feel not just normal, but expected.“We must have a drink before the end of the year!”If your aim is to cut back, try alternating each alcoholic drink with something non-alcoholic.But if you want to drink less (or not at all) this silly season, you don’t have to rely on willpower alone. Having a plan can help.Some evidence suggests when goals are focused on how you’ll approach something – such as a not-drinking strategy – rather than what you’ll avoid (alcohol), it’s easier to follow through.So here are some simple strategies, backed by evidence.1. Make a planWhen making decisions, our brains tend to prioritise immediate goals over long-term ones. Scientists call this “present bias”. This means it’s harder to keep your long-term goal (cutting back on alcohol) in mind when confronted by the chance for immediate gratification (having a drink).But if you plan when you will and won’t drink in advance, you reduce the need to make this decision in real time – when alcohol is in front of you and your willpower may be lower and you’re more driven by emotion.Look ahead at your calendar and choose your drinking and non-drinking days deliberately. Committing to the plan ahead of time reduces the chances of opportunistic drinking when social pressure is high.2. Track your drinksTracking when and how much you drink is one of the most effective and well-supported strategies for reducing alcohol use and staying motivated.You may be surprised how much tracking alone can change your drinking, simply by being more mindful and helping you understand your patterns.It doesn’t matter how you do it – in an app, a notebook or even on your phone calendar. Writing it down is better than trying to remember. And doing it consistently works best. Aim to record drinks in real time if you can.There are lots of free, evidence based apps, such Drink Tracker, that can help you track your drinking and drink-free days.3. Try zero alcohol drinksFor many people, the rise of alcohol-free beer, wine and spirits has made it much easier to enjoy the ritual of drinking at social events, without the intoxication.But they’re not for everyone – particularly those who find the look, smell and taste of alcohol triggering. Know yourself, see what works, and don’t force it if it’s not helping reach your goals.4. Slow the paceIf your aim is to cut back, try alternating each alcoholic drink with something non-alcoholic.Water is best, but zero, low or non-alcoholic drinks can still reduce how much you drink overall – and as a bonus they can also help you stay hydrated, which may reduce the chance of a hangover.Eating something healthy and filling before and during drinking is also a good idea. It prevents rapid spikes in blood alcohol levels, as well as slowing the absorption of alcohol into your system. This means your body has a better chance of metabolising the alcohol.Eating well can also help calm the cravings for sugary, fried and salty foods that are often triggered by alcohol.5. Beware of an all-or-nothing approachDon’t fall into the “goal violation” trap (sometimes called the abstinence violation effect). That’s the when slipping up makes you abandon your plan altogether.Maybe someone talks you into “just a splash” – or one drink somehow becomes five – and you tell yourself: “Oh well, I’ve blown it now.”But a slip is just a slip – it doesn’t mean you have to give up on your goals. You can reset straight away, at the next drink or the next day.6. Set up accountabilityLetting a friend or partner know that you are trying to drink less helps you stay accountable and provides support – even better if they join you.7. Have responses readyPeople may notice you’re not drinking or are drinking less. They may offer you a drink. Try a simple “I’m good” or “I’m pacing myself tonight”. Work out what feels OK to you – you don’t need to give long explanations.8. Be kind to yourselfWhen you’re making a big change, it won’t always go smoothly. What matters is how you respond if you slip up. Shame and guilt often lead to more drinking, while self-compassion supports longer-term behaviour change.Instead of seeing a slip as failure, treat it as information: What made it hard to stick to your goals? What could help next time?December doesn’t have to derail your goalsChange comes from consistent small steps, even during the busiest month of the year. Focus on developing a relationship with alcohol that you are in control of, not the other way around.

Central Otago District Council (CODC) has awarded a contract for vital maintenance work at the Ranfurly Wastewater Treatment Plant, with desludging of the oxidation pond and wetlands set to begin this month. Glasgow Contractors will carry out the work, which is expected to run from December through to June. In a statement, the council said the project involves removing a “significant” build-up of sludge identified during a recent survey.  The council said the work is essential to restore the pond’s capacity, improve treatment performance and support the long-term operation of the wastewater system. “It’s not just about clearing material; it's about restoring the plant's capacity and efficiency,” CODC capital projects programme manager Patrick Keenan said.  “By removing the sludge, we ensure the oxidation pond can perform its role optimally, securing the long-term effectiveness of the Ranfurly wastewater treatment system for the community.” Sludge removal increases the volume of water the pond can hold, extending retention time and improving biological treatment processes within the system. Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] The Ranfurly desludging is part of the council’s wider programme to bring its wastewater treatment plants into compliance following abatement notices issued after a 2023 audit by Otago RegionalCouncil. Since that audit, abatement notices have been lifted for Alexandra, Cromwell and Naseby. Notices remain in place at Ranfurly and Roxburgh, although council has previously reported encouraging compliance results at Roxburgh following earlier desludging and aeration upgrades. On its website, Auckland-based Glasgow Contractors says it has experience in dredging and desludging oxidation wastewater treatment ponds across the country.Read more: Sludge-busting works set to start in Ranfurly

Public health warning signs near a busy stretch of the Lake Dunstan Trail have been removed after three days of clear water quality results, the Central Otago District Council (CODC) has confirmed. The signs had advised people and animals to avoid the area only a few hundred metres from the Kiwi Water Park. It is understood they were installed earlier in the week after a wastewater overflow was reported. In a notice issued at 5pm on Thursday (December 11), CODC said the overflow near Luggate-Cromwell Road (State Highway 6) between Cromwell and Lowburn had been repaired by contractors. Precautionary water sampling over the past three days showed no contamination, and the wastewater was contained on land and did not reach Lake Dunstan, the council said. “‘No swimming’ signs were temporarily erected as a precaution and have been removed today [Thursday]...following clear sampling results,” the statement said.  Cones and signage were used to warn the public to keep off the affected area.Some details about the timing and cause of the incident remain unclear. People are advised not to swim in the lake adjacent to the overflow site, Thursday, December 11. Image: The Central AppA worker from Trility, CODC’s three waters contractor, was onsite when The Central App visited on Thursday afternoon.  He said the incident involved the main wastewater line that services Lowburn and Pisa Moorings.He said the council became aware of the issue on Sunday. CODC’s public notice refers only to a “wastewater overflow” and did not specify when the initial failure occurred. A spokesperson from the Kiwi Water Park said the park had been notified earlier in the week.They said CODC tested the park’s water on the day the signs were installed. “We got a call yesterday that it came back perfect,” the spokesperson said.  The Central App has requested further information from CODC about the cause of the overflow, the volume of wastewater released and when the incident was first officially reported. Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

Local Government New Zealand says major resource management changes will need strong funding support to avoid extra pressure on ratepayers.The Government unveiled its new Resource Management system earlier this week, signalling what councils describe as a “fundamentally different” way of working for the country.LGNZ Vice President Rehette Stoltz said councils are ready for long-awaited reform.“New Zealand has been talking about RM change for decades; councils want to get on with delivering it well.”She said the push for more certainty and less red tape is welcome.However, transition arrangements — including extended consents and elements of the new system applying immediately once legislation passes — may take councils by surprise.“The extension of some consents will likely have workforce impacts for councils in the regions.“We need to transition to the new system with care. Local priorities need to be reflected within national frameworks.“We will have opportunities next year to help shape those.“This reform means less local voice and more central direction, which means decisions around trade-offs are largely made at a national level, or through plan making, rather than through consenting.“It’s vital the public are aware that they need to participate in the development of combined plans if communities want to have their say on the outcomes they want in their regions.“The implementation timeframe is rapid and transition and implementation costs will be significant, particularly the development of Regional Combined Plans and their independent hearings process.“LGNZ will be advocating for funding and support to manage these changes effectively, and we’ll be asking the Government to make this a focus in Budget ’26.”LGNZ regional sector chair Dr Deon Swiggs said the reforms will have wide impacts on regional councils.“We know it’s a difficult period for staff and elected members. Regional councils still have a critical job to do for New Zealand.”“Jobs, trade and the economy rely on New Zealand’s natural resources; the work to protect the environment will still need to be done by regional councils until the new system is in place.”Rehette said other policy settings will need amendment to ensure planning reforms deliver real benefits.“Planning reform allows more development but councils still need to provide the infrastructure for those developments. We need new funding and financing tools, like development levies and Infrastructure Funding and Financing Act changes, to service this growth, especially as requirements to free up more land challenge councils' ability to plan.“We welcome new development levies and IFF changes to fund development. Implementing the coalition’s GST sharing on new builds policy is needed to unleash the reform’s full potential,” she said.Fish and Game says key interests of anglers appears weakened under the RMA overhaulMeanwhile, Fish & Game New Zealand said while it welcomes parts of the reform — including the retention of Water Conservation Orders and simpler wetland creation — stronger safeguards are still needed.CEO Corina Jordan said retaining Water Conservation Orders in the new system is a major positive."Water Conservation Orders protect 16 nationally significant water bodies, and Fish & Game has been instrumental in establishing most of these."These orders recognise outstanding values for fishing, hunting, recreation and ecosystem health. Their retention is excellent news for our 300,000 licence holders and all New Zealanders who value these special places."Corina said the organisation supports clearer national direction, simpler planning processes and national standards that may make wetland construction easier."We've been advocating for years to make it easier to create wetlands.”"If national standards enable wetland construction without requiring resource consent, that will be a significant positive step for game bird habitat and broader environmental outcomes."However, she said key interests of anglers and hunters appear weakened under the reform."The Resource Management Act specifically required consideration of trout and salmon habitat, amenity values, and recreational opportunities."These provisions appear to have been removed or significantly diluted, and we're concerned this doesn't reflect the values of our licence holders or the broader New Zealand public who value freshwater recreation."She said Fish & Game will closely examine how environmental limits are implemented under the new framework.Jordan said access is another concern."The Resource Management Act required councils to maintain and enhance public access to lakes, rivers and the coast. The Planning Bill only requires councils to maintain access, removing the obligation to improve it. For hunters and anglers, access to waterways is fundamental."She says local input is essential but must sit within a strong national environmental framework."We believe New Zealand can have healthy freshwater, thriving communities and a prosperous economy. But the legislative framework needs to support all three of these outcomes, not prioritise one over the others."Jordan said Fish & Game will continue engaging as the legislation progresses through Parliament."Our vision is a New Zealand where freshwater habitats and species flourish, hunting and fishing traditions thrive, and all Kiwis enjoy access to sustainable wild fish and game resources,” said Jordan."We'll be working to ensure these reforms support that vision."Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

Central Otago locals love the long, sun-soaked season here, but rising temperatures are also bringing a higher risk of fast-moving fires across our dry landscape.Hotter summers and longer dry spells are becoming more common across the world, and Central Otago is right at the sharp end of those changes.With more days climbing over 25°C each year, places like the Clutha Valley, Lake Dunstan and the Manuherikia are expected to see some of the biggest increases in heat by the end of the century. That extra warmth might be great for stonefruit, but it also raises the fire danger for homes, lifestyle blocks, and farms. Reduced frost and snowfall in winter also affect water storage and crop resilience, compounding the risks for lifestyle blocks and farms.Dry vegetation, strong nor’westers and limited rainfall all create the perfect conditions for rural fires to take hold – and spread quickly. Understanding how your land, buildings and daily routines may add to that risk is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your home.Three ways to reduce your property’s fire risk this summer1. Know your land and the hazards around youFire and Emergency NZ notes that most rural fires start from preventable causes, so proactive property checks are one of the most reliable ways to protect your home, assets, and livelihood during the peak of summer.Fire risk starts small. Dry grass, leftover firewood piles, fallen branches, rubbish heaps and even a forgotten bottle or piece of broken glass acting like a magnifying glass can all help a fire ignite. Unsecured gas bottles, and flammable liquids are also risks to be aware of. Walk your property regularly and look for anything that could fuel a blaze.Embers can travel more than 2 kilometres, so it’s worth looking beyond just your immediate boundary. Highly flammable trees such as pine, cedar, fir, larch, spruce, eucalyptus, kānuka and mānuka shouldn’t be planted within 10 metres of your home. Keeping vegetation low, clearing debris, and maintaining firebreaks all help slow the spread of fire.2. Have a plan in case a fire breaks outA good plan gives your property a fighting chance.Having multiple hoses ready means you can tackle flames from different angles if a blaze begins. Storing water barrels or tanks around the property adds another layer of protection when pressure drops or access is tight.Make sure your home has a clear, well-maintained safety zone. Irrigated green grass acts as a natural fire break, and Fire and Emergency NZ recommends keeping that area free of anything that could ignite – from stacked firewood to outdoor clutter. If you’re building or renovating, consider fire-resistant materials where you can.If you use heavy machinery, always carry a fire extinguisher. Hot exhaust and dry grass are a dangerous mix, and a small spark can move fast in Central Otago conditions.A quick checklist to keep in mind:Stack firewood well away from the houseClear gutters, decks, and dead vegetationAvoid machinery use near dry grass on hot days3. Understand your cover and protect what mattersFire risk isn’t just a property issue – it’s an insurance one too.Your broker is there to help make sure your sum insured keeps pace with rising building costs so you’re not caught short. They also talk to insurers about the steps you’re already taking to reduce fire risk, which can make a real difference at renewal time.Affordability matters, and brokers work with you to keep your cover sustainable – from negotiating premiums to adjusting excesses or setting up instalment options. The goal is simple: protecting your home, your assets, and the lifestyle you’ve built here without having to compromise on essential cover.However hot this summer gets, taking a few practical steps now helps keep our community safer – and reminds us why Central Otago is a place we’re proud to call home.If you'd like any help, C & R Insurance are here for you. You can call us on 03 448 7139 or check out our website hereSponsored 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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A Cromwell Community Board member has taken matters into his own hands, organising a small weeding working bee at one of the town’s state highway roundabouts amid ongoing local frustration over who is responsible for maintaining the site. Wally Sanford spent part of last week pulling weeds at the roundabout on State Highway 6 at the intersection with SH8B, near Cromwell’s main entrance, before encouraging others to join him over the weekend. The roundabout, installed in recent years by the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA), has been the subject of increasing online criticism, with residents questioning its untidy appearance as weeds have overtaken the rock garden earlier planted with natives.  Wally said the condition of the roundabout, as well as that of a second roundabout a few hundred metres down the road past the Big Fruit on State Highway 8B, had been bothering him well before the debate escalated on social media. “There is plenty of chat about the roundabouts around town but first and foremost the state of them was frustrating me before the matter hit Facebook,” he said. “Pulling weeds and grass is hands down a more effective approach than emailing and squabbling over whose job it is.” Six people joined the informal working bee on Saturday (December 6), with Wally providing cold drinks for volunteers.  Pisa Moorings resident Wally Sanford weeds the problem roundabout. Image: Facebook/Brett SherriffHe estimated they had completed only a fraction of the work needed. “We have done about 10 per cent of the job to date so a much bigger effort is still needed,” he said. While he planned to continue weeding when he could, Wally said he would not be organising further formal working bees. “If people want to help, they should just go and do it as and when it suits them. 8pm onwards is a great time of day for it,” he said. Questions over the roundabouts’ upkeep stem partly from their location on state highways, generally under the jurisdiction of NZTA rather than the Central Otago District Council. In response to queries from The Central App, an NZTA spokesperson said responsibility for the roundabouts was still being worked through. “We are currently in discussions with other parties about where specific responsibilities rest in relation to these roundabouts,” the spokesperson said. They said NZTA’s immediate focus was on safety rather than appearance. “In the meantime, NZTA has been responding swiftly wherever safety concerns have been raised, such as vegetation interfering with the sight lines/visibility of road users,” the spokesperson said. “In the current constrained fiscal environment, the focus is on safety over amenity.” The roundabout is located at one of Cromwell’s busiest gateways, with traffic flowing between State Highway 6 and State Highway 8B toward Central Otago in one direction and Queenstown Lakes in the other.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

Central Otago youth will be empowered to design their own digital wellbeing solutions, thanks to a $350,000 grant from Otago Community Trust.The Netsafe Otago Young Digital Leaders Pilot is a new programme that puts young people at the centre of digital safety initiatives across the region.The pilot will run in Central Otago, Dunedin, North Otago, and South Otago, giving rangatahi the opportunity to lead projects, respond to online harm, and help shape policy affecting their digital lives.Netsafe chief executive Brent Carey said there were incredibly grateful to the Otago Community Trust for backing youth-led innovation in online safety.“Netsafe is also investing in this initiative as part of our ongoing commitment to serving all regions and communities across New Zealand, a commitment we strengthened when we opened our Dunedinoffice in 2024.”The programme will establish four youth rōpū, where participants will collaborate to develop community-specific responses to digital wellbeing challenges.Through youth-led workshops, leadership development, and advocacy training, young people will gain skills, confidence, and connections that continue beyond the life of the programme.The projects they develop, from educational resources to policy recommendations, community events, or research, will be fully shaped by the rangatahi involved.The three-year rollout will begin with two locations in its first year. It will expand across Otago in the second year and move to sustainability and knowledge-sharing in the final year. Netsafe will facilitate the pilot, drawing on more than 25 years of online safety education expertise while ensuring young people remain the decision-makers.“The digital world is evolving rapidly, and with major policy changes ahead, it’s more important than ever that the voices of young people are heard and reflected in the solutions we co-create,” Brent said.The funding comes through Otago Community Trust’s Tamariki & Rangatahi Impact Fund, designed to support the wellbeing and leadership of young people across the region.The trust said the initiative has strong potential for long-term, intergenerational impact, not only for the young leaders directly involved, but for future generations who will benefit from their work.The pilot is also supported by additional philanthropic funding and Netsafe’s own investment, reinforcing a collaborative commitment to youth-led digital safety in Aotearoa.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

Motorists across Central Otago are being reminded to check speed limits, with a series of recent changes now in effect on roads in Cromwell, Bannockburn, Pisa Moorings, Clyde, Omakau, Ranfurly and St Bathans.Central Otago District Council (CODC) issued a reminder on Wednesday (December 10) following ongoing online chatter from drivers who say they have been caught out by the new limits.Among the most significant changes for drivers in and around Cromwell, Bannockburn Road, Pearson Road and Sandflat Road have dropped from 100 kilometres per hour to 80, while neighbourhood streets in Pisa Moorings without footpaths are now 40 kilometres per hour, down from 50.Approaching Cromwell’s growing industrial area, Cemetery Road - between State Highway 6 and Chardonnay Street - has reduced from 70 kilometres per hour to 50.Near Omakau School, Racecourse Road has dropped sharply from 100 kilometres per hour to 50 at the end of the school’s variable speed zone, while in St Bathans the heritage precinct and Loop Road are now 30 kilometres per hour, down from 50. Cross Street and part of St Bathans Downs Road have also reduced to 30 kilometres per hour.Cambrian Road has seen one of the largest changes, dropping from 100 kilometres per hour to 30, with additional sections on the approach to St Bathans reduced from 100 kilometres per hour to 60.Not all changes involve reductions. Short sections of Ranfurly–Patearoa Road and Earnscleugh Road have increased from 50 kilometres per hour to 100, where council says the road environment supports higher travel speeds.The speed limit changes were approved by council on September 24 and followed public consultation earlier this year attracting 129 submissions.CODC group manager of infrastructure, planning and regulatory services Quinton Penniall said the changes were targeted rather than “blanket” reductions.“Central Otago is a large, varied road network. Infrastructure upgrades aren’t always practical or cost-effective, so setting the right speed limit for each road is one of the most effective tools we have to reduce harm,” he said.Quinton said feedback had led to some refinements, including extending the proposed 30 kilometre per hour heritage precinct in St Bathans and adjusting the length of the Racecourse Road change near Omakau School “to improve clarity and reduce driver confusion”.New signage has been installed, and a full list of changes is available on the council’s Let’s Talk webpage.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

The finance minister says mortgage holders should shop around after Westpac increased its fixed-term home loan rates.Westpac is increasing its home loans over two-to five-year terms by 30 basis points, taking a two-year fix to 4.75 percent.It comes after a period of falling interest rates that the government has made a point of publicising to say its economic plan is working.Asked about Westpac's move to increase its rate, Finance Minister Nicola Willis said people should investigate what bank can offer them the best deal."My message to New Zealanders is shop around. Westpac have made that choice. Other banks have not."I really want to see New Zealanders seeing that they have some power when it comes to where they take their mortgage."Don't just look at the headline rates, go and hold your bank's feet to the fire. See if another bank will give you a better rate. Make them compete with each other."Don't just accept that you're getting the best deal right now. Let's make them compete."Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said the wider context was important."We've been managing spending so we can manage inflation down so we can get interest rates down. For a New Zealander that's on an average mortgage that's $10,000 a year of savings that they've got through nine interest cuts already under our government."Each bank will make its own decision about its assessment of the medium term but the Reserve Bank will continue to monitor that. What's important is that after a world of twelve interest rate rises, we've had nine interest rate cuts."Interest rates are relatively low compared to where they sit in other parts of the world now. Inflation is under control and you're seeing signs of growth in the economy."Labour leader Chris Hipkins said Westpac's higher rate proved the coalition's economic plan was not working."They've built their whole narrative around lower interest rates and fixing the economy. They haven't fixed the economy; unemployment's gone up, business liquidation's are up, people in hardship are up, house building has slowed down, the list could go on."I think this highlights the problem with the government's overall economic strategy here. They're waiting for the Reserve Bank to save them because they haven't got a plan to tackle the cost of living or to grow the economy."Nicola Willis has made this problem for herself. She actually said the Reserve Bank's one job is to keep inflation within the target plan. They don't have a remit around employment anymore. They don't have a remit to grow the economy. That's the government's job and they haven't got a plan to do that."

Central Otago mayor Tamah Alley has issued a blunt warning to the building sector regarding abuse of council staff: bad behaviour could soon hit you in the pocket.The issue was raised during a meeting of the Audit and Risk Committee on Monday (December 8), following a report highlighting several incidences of aggression towards the council’s building control team.While there was general acknowledgement this sort of behaviour was “the exception and not the norm”, Tamah raised the possibility staff might need to attend site visits in pairs in some circumstances for safety.However, she was adamant if such a change was required, the cost should not fall on the general ratepayer."I think it's important that this goes back on the sector because this is a user-pays system," she told the meeting."If we have to send two people... because you cannot be trusted to behave like an adult when you are requiring a service from us, then you will pay for two people."The discussion followed a Health, Safety and Wellbeing report covering July to September.While total reports of aggression across the council decreased compared to the previous quarter, the report identified a specific concentration of "intimidating behaviour" targeting building control officers.It detailed incidents where officers faced "loud yelling and swearing" and "suspected unauthorised photography" during site visits, while a third staff member faced "threatening and rude behaviour" during a phone call regarding inspection wait times.The report also detailed issues at public council facilities, including an incident at a library where a young adult was verbally abused by “two homeless individuals”.When asked by the mayor if the perpetrators had been trespassed, staff confirmed they had not.The report also looked at incidents involving contractors, including a biohazard scare where "graffiti was found written in blood" at the Lode Lane toilets in Cromwell.The meeting discussion emphasised the importance of contractors reporting these incidents back to the council, with staff saying “the more they report it, the more we’re going to understand it” - referring to health, safety, and wellbeing trends across all facets of the council’s work.Committee chair Bruce Robertson noted the variety of incidents, saying the data "reflects the complexity" of the environment the council operates in.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

The Otago Regional Council will prepare a whole-of-council submission on the Government’s proposed local government reforms, which could see regional councillors removed as early as next year.The Government’s Simplifying Local Government proposal proposes all elected regional councillors be replaced by a Combined Territories Board (CTB), made up of Mayors or Crown Commissioners.Cr Michael Laws said regional councils and regional councillors were still in a state of shock about the proposals announced in late November.“Many of us won’t have jobs next year, none of us will I suspect, we won’t be here, we won’t exist…” he said before adding that it was a good idea to have some collective views on the issues.Cr Neil Gillespie suggested they work with territorial authorities to get the best understanding.But chief executive Richard Saunders told the meeting it would be difficult to get a joint formal submission signed off with other councils before the February 20 deadline.However, there were ongoing discussions with Mayors and chairs encouraging that they shared submission points in understanding the other councils across Otago.Councillors supported the whole-of-council submission process, and would attend a briefing workshop in early January to identify priority issues for staff to prepare a full council submission. The motion was led by former chair Gretchen Robertson who said they needed to show some regional leadership “and do it now.”“This is a key, most important issue that is facing us and our region at the moment.”She said it not only affected all councils but local democracy across New Zealand.Gretchen reminded the meeting that Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) has been asking for a reform and review for a really long time, “so hey we are up for it.”“We must shift the destructive narrative - it does not serve Otago and it does not serve New Zealand.”She suggested the submission should focus on transitioning the ORC rather than getting rid of it, “we are the solution, not the problem and we need to be in that tent. I’m sick of the negativity around it.”Cr Gary Kelliher looked at the issue slightly differently. “We are the problem and that’s why the Government is taking action. The Government has stepped in and said, ‘we want something different.’”Michael believes that regional councils have “run their course” and is strongly in favour of unitary authorities, saying the model had worked at six other regions across New Zealand, including Gisborne.“Nobody’s going to die in a ditch to save regional councillors…we have created a rod for our own backs in some ways, through the way in which we acted in our last council, and the defiance of Government direction was used repeatedly by senior politicians responsible for this reform.“We need to take some collective responsibility for that and how are we going to transition to a new local Government structure."Councillors will meet to discuss the issues further at a workshop in mid-January, and staff will progress work on the submission, ready for the February 20 deadline.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

Lake Dunstan boaties will not face an alcohol ban while operating vessels, with Otago Regional Council staff advising there is no evidence intoxication is causing accidents.The ORC’s navigational safety bylaw is under review, and will go out for public consultation in the new year.At its last meeting, Cr Kate Wilson said it was “madness” that people were allowed to operate boats while under the influence of alcohol, given the risks.Other regions take a stricter approach.The Queenstown Lakes District Council has its own bylaw prohibiting alcohol consumption on boats on Lakes Wakatipu, Wanaka and Hawea. Auckland Council and the Northland Regional Council also enforce similar rules.However, Otago Regional Council staff said alcohol use on boats is not currently regulated under the bylaw, making it unclear whether it is a significant issue locally.Under the current bylaw (section 6(1)), a person in charge of a vessel is responsible for the safety and wellbeing of every person on board and for the safe operation of the vessel. If unsafe operation or an accident is reported, the harbourmaster can investigate regardless of the cause.Harbourmaster Steve Rushbrook told regional councillors at its last meeting that controlling alcohol use on boats was something that had to be led by Maritime NZ.“As a group of national harbourmasters, we’ve been pushing on that door for quite some time, and will continue to do so.”The Otago Navigation Safety Bylaw 2020 assists with the regulation of ports, harbours, waters and maritime-related activities in the region.New rules and regulations governing navigational safety will go out for consultation in early 2026, with an aim to adopt the new bylaw in April 2026.Aspects such as boat speed limits in certain areas of Lake Dunstan and the need to always wear life jackets on the water, will remain unchanged.One new proposal that will be in the draft bylaw is for all commercial vessels carrying 12 or morepassengers both day and night, and all vessels 15-plus metres, to carry a new mandatory automatic identification tracking system (AIS).Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]  

As we countdown to the final few weeks to Christmas, Central Otago REAP is reaching out to people across the district to ask: what would you love to learn in 2026?Covering a wide area from Middlemarch to Makarora, right across Central Otago and south to Tapanui, the not-for-profit organisation delivers and supports lifelong learning opportunities to communities of all shapes and sizes.Adult Community Education (ACE) team leader Emma McLean said capturing the community voice happens in many ways, and a survey is one important tool. “Every community we work with is different, and listening is the key. The survey is one way we hear what matters to most people.”This year with ongoing cost of living pressures, REAP has seen increased interest in skills that help households stretch further, from sustainable food-growing practices to clothing repair (darn is back!),and other foundations of back-to-basics learning.The Friday ‘garden club’ at the Alexandra Community Gardens has been a highlight, connecting generations as seasoned gardeners pass on knowledge to younger people keen to learn.Through the community survey REAP hopes to identify gaps in its services, and guide funding to where it can make the biggest difference.“We want to hear what people value in sustainability, health and wellbeing, and everyday skill building.”“It’s about creating opportunities for people to take small achievable steps to where they want to be,” she said.REAP is encouraging people from all sectors of the community to share their voice - whether they have joined a course before or are simply curious. Clink on the banner below to fill in the surveyFor those who make the effort, a Christmas hamper will be drawn on December 15, so share your thoughts and be in to win.Check out the courses still available until December 18 on our Central App what’s on section.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

There have been plenty of houses join up for The Central App’s Light Up Central festive season, but we’d love to see more from the surrounding towns of Clyde, Cromwell, Roxburgh and Ranfurly.Now in its third year, Light Up Central is a festive way for people to create a Christmas atmosphere at their properties for others to enjoy.After the self guided tour, locals are encouraged to vote online for their favourites, and the top three will claim a prize, thanks to our generous sponsors.First Prize – A $1,000 Goodie Hamper from Paper Plus AlexandraSecond Prize – A $500 gift from Jamies JewellersThird Prize – A luxurious pamper experience at Harmony valued at $250Tracey and Trevor Washington were last year’s winners, decorating their Alexandra property in solar lights, blow up features, candy canes, flags and of course a Santa.Second place in last year’s competition went to Jackson Hill of Clyde with his Hazlett Street creation. Photo: Lisa Hill Christmas is important to Cromwell based Central Otago district councillor Sarah Browne and her four children, with their English heritage.Back home they would drive around the snowy streets and drink hot chocolate, marvelling at all of the decorations and lights.Her parents live in Staffordshire, a small rural village that decorates its town hall for Christmas.  Back in Cromwell, Sarah’s hoping she and the kids might see some people making the effort for Christmas like they do at Halloween.  “I just think people should stop and celebrate Christmas,” she said.Sarah’s kids have a tonne of lights to put up, but they live in a back section so it doesn’t have the same appeal without street frontage.She’s been hoping there might be a Christmas trail available in the community so they can drive around and look at others, to keep the family tradition going.The Central App’s Light Up Central has that covered. Last we looked there were two houses from Cromwell on the button.Want to let locals know to drive past your house on the tour? It's easy, just click on our button Light Up Central and go to Light Up Central Houses and add to the "Add your home here"Light Up CentralWe already have 28 houses around Central Otago registered for the Light Up Central competition, with one each in Ranfurly and Omakau - but we would love more!So don’t miss the chance to showcase your creativity and spread the holiday spirit.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

The Central Otago District Council has been urged to be “ambitious” in overhauling its financial systems after an external review found its current processes risk repeating past budgeting issues. An independent Deloitte report presented to the Audit and Risk Committee on Monday (December 8) rated the council’s financial maturity as “developing”.  The assessment noted “reactive” planning, inconsistent forecasting, and an over-reliance on “poorly controlled” manual spreadsheets. The review also found departments often budgeted in “silos”, with limited cross-organisation coordination.  Deloitte said this had contributed to a “low capital completion rate”, meaning key infrastructure projects were being delayed or carried over to future years. Committee chair Bruce Robertson said there was a clear need for improvement across the organisation. He said there was “dissonance within the organisation in terms of staff understanding their budgets and how to prepare them and manage them”, and warned the council risked repeating mistakes in itsnext 10-year plan if it was not proactive. “If we aren’t ambitious and trying to work on these rather relevant recommendations in here we’re going to repeat the same mistakes for this LTP (Long Term Plan),” Bruce said. A detailed “roadmap” for implementing the changes is expected to be presented to the committee in February. Deloitte report writer Kelvin Weston told the committee the “developing” rating was not a concern and reflected the size and complexity of the organisation. “It’s what would be expected for an organisation or council of your size and scope,” Kelvin said.  He described the rating as “good news”, saying it meant there was clear room for continual improvement. Improving financial maturity was not simply about upgrading software, with Kevin saying, “People, process, and technology need to work hand-in-hand". “The success of uplifting maturity really depends on all three of those areas.” Deputy mayor Tracy Patterson said the council wanted to be upfront with the community about areas that could be strengthened. “We’re trying to be very transparent where we have things that we can work on,” she said. “We’ve got room for improvement, which is where we all should be heading.” CODC chief financial officer Paul Morris told the committee staff were already working to ensure the recommendations were incorporated as planning begins for the 2027-37 Long Term Plan. Deloitte recommended establishing “cross-functional budgeting coordination groups” to reduce siloing and providing targeted training to budget holders to improve financial skills across the organisation. Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]