The rain did not dampen the positivity or numbers at Omakau Trots annual event ( January 2) looking to break all previous records dating back to 1965.Gate-takings suggest there was a big crowd enjoying great racing and entertainment. Central Otago Trotting Club president Graham Sinnamon said he was grateful the crowd chose to spend the second day of 2026 at the races, and praised the community effort that made the day possible.John Dunn after his 1500 race win with Henry Hubert“There were 19 community groups running the show today,” he said.“Even though we are the trotting club, there's 19 other clubs that make it happen. It’s just like a big jigsaw. We are a piece, and so is everybody else. By the time you put all the pieces together, you've got the day, and I think that it's a community thing.“Today was a culmination of a lot of work and things going right on the day like the weather was fantastic. The crowd were fantastic. It's just what you hope for.”Family fun at the Omakau races“I was talking to people in the car park… [who] hadn't seen a race, but they are having a fantastic time. It's not for us to tell you how to enjoy your day. We provide what we think is a wide-ranging package, and there's something for everybody,” Graham said.For more of the big day at the Omakau Races, click on the video link below.

We are continuing our ‘Five minutes with…’ summer series, where we slow down the pace to celebrate some of the people who make our district tick.We’ve put the same five questions to a range of residents to find out a bit more about who they are and get their unique take on life in our region.Today, we catch up with Pisa Moorings resident and Cromwell Community Board member Wally Sanford, who at the end of 2025 rolled his sleeves up and organised a weeding working bee at an overgrown state highway roundabout that had been creating a community headache.1. What was one of your very first jobs, and what did it teach you?Wally: Agricultural contracting. Working between fencing, hay/baleage, ground works etc taught me how quickly you can pick up different skills if you give yourself the chance. 2. When the holiday crowds arrive, where is your secret spot to escape the heat?Wally: In my garage. Full insulation was a great idea! 3. It’s peak stone fruit season: Cherries, apricots, peaches or nectarines - you can only pick one. Which is it and what's your favourite way to eat it?Wally: Cherries right off our trees (An average apricot is really bad, but a really good one is amazing though).4. What is a hidden talent or weird party trick that nobody expects from you?Wally: I know the McDonald’s kiwi burger song off by heart and can kind of walk on my hands. 5. Complete this sentence: "You know you’re a local in Central Otago when..."Wally: You complain about how cloudy it is, but can still see the top of Mt Pisa - that’s not cloudy!

Welcome to 'Central in an object', our summer series celebrating the rich history of the Central Otago district. We asked museum curators and volunteers across the region to strip it back to basics: choose just one item from their collections that tells a story about who we are. Today, Teviot District Museum’s Barbara Fraser tells us about a doll that represents the often-overlooked stories of pioneering women.The objectFor Barbara Fraser, this isn't really about a doll; it's about the story of its owner.The object itself is a highly valued childhood possession: a delicately handmade doll resting in an intricate crib.It was the treasured property of a young Miss Mary Effienne (Effie) Hamilton.Effie won it in a raffle at the Gullane Church Bazaar in Scotland on August 22, 1902.Today, the toy, along with its winning ticket, is in the care of the museum in Roxburgh.Effie, her elder brother Robert, and parents James and Mary Hamilton immigrated from Scotland to New Zealand, arriving in Dunedin on New Year's Eve, 1910, aboard the HMS Ionic, with the doll accompanying Effie on the voyage.Her father had run a green grocers in Scotland but always wanted to grow his own produce.A year after arriving, the family settled in Ettrick in the Teviot Valley, establishing an apricot orchard and building a family home they named "Gullane", which still stands today.They were joined by David Sibbald, Mr. Hamilton’s former delivery boy from Scotland, who worked with them on the orchard.Effie’s life was shaped by the immense tragedies of her era.While her father passed away later in the mid-1940s, both her brother Robert and David, the family friend, enlisted for World War I and were killed in France. Robert was just 21 when he was buried in Bapaume, France, in 1916.Effie never married, a common fate for women of her generation due to the devastating impact of WWI and the subsequent 1918 flu epidemic.Instead, it is likely she cared for her mother, Mary, as was expected of unmarried daughters at the time.Despite the hardships, Effie became a notable citizen in the Teviot district.She compiled a photo scrapbook of a carnival parade held to raise patriotic funds during WWI, which is now held by the museum.She also attended the raising of the first power pole in Roxburgh in 1923, where she collected acorns at the site. In 1924, she crafted them into an attractive necklace, which has been displayed at the Teviot Museum since 1975.Acorn necklace, on display at the Teviot museum. Image supplied

Workplaces are dynamic environments, and sometimes things can go wrong. When they do, New Zealand employment law provides a pathway to resolve these disputes, known as the personal grievance process.Understanding how this works is important for both employees and employers, as it ensures workplaces operate fairly and allows for disputes to be resolved constructively.In Central Otago, where many businesses are small and seasonal work is common, knowing your rights and obligations can make a big difference. A well-managed process can protect legal rights and help to maintain strong workplace relationships.What Is a Personal Grievance?A personal grievance is a formal complaint raised by an employee, or an ex-employee if they believe they’ve been treated unfairly at work. They exist to ensure fairness and accountability in employment relationships.Common grounds for a personal grievance include:Unjustified dismissal – being fired without a valid reason or fair processUnjustified disadvantage – negative changes to work conditions without justificationDiscrimination or harassment – including racial or sexual harassmentEmployees must raise a grievance within 90 days of the incident (or 12 months for sexual harassment claims). The process usually starts with a written complaint to the employer, followed by mediation if needed, and as a last resort claims to the Employment Relations Authority or the Employment Court.Unjustified DismissalThis occurs when an employer:Lacks a valid reason for dismissal, orFails to follow a fair processValid reasons can include serious misconduct, restructuring, or bullying. Even with a good reason, the dismissal may still be unjustified if the process wasn’t fair.Unjustified DisadvantageThis happens when an employer’s actions negatively affect an employee’s work conditions without justification. Examples include:Removing responsibilities without explanationMaking changes that hinder job performanceIssuing an unjustified warningFor Employees: Know Your RightsIf you believe you’ve been treated unfairly you should seek legal advice to help you raise the issue with your employer. Ideally this should be in writing, be clear about what happened, how it affected you, and the resolution that you seek.If the issue isn’t resolved, you can seek free mediation through the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment (MBIE). In the event that a mediation fails, the matter can then be escalated to the Employment Relations Authority (ERA).Potential remedies can include compensation for lost wages or emotional harm, reinstatement, and rectifying the disadvantage.For Employers: Responding Fairly and LegallyAs an employer, receiving a personally grievance can be challenging. It is important to continue to act in good faith, and engage in honest, open and constructive communications with your employee. Failure to do so can escalate disputes as well as damage confidence and trust. As an employer it is important to:Acknowledge the grievanceReview the complaint thoroughlyFollow a fair process and allow the employee to respondSeek legal advice How to Avoid GrievancesEmployers:Keep clear employment agreementsDocument decisions and processesCommunicate openly and earlyEmployees:Raise concerns promptlyKeep written recordsSeek advice before escalatingThe Cost of Getting it WrongPersonal grievances can be expensive and stressful for both sides. Employers may face compensation orders for lost wages and emotional harm, legal costs, and reputational damage. While employees can experience financial hardship during disputes, as well as emotional strain and uncertainty. Seeking legal advice and an early resolution through open communication and mediation can often save time and relationships.Why This Matters LocallyIn Central Otago, where many businesses are small and there is a strong sense of community, handling employment issues with care and sensitivity is especially important. A well-managed personal grievance process not only protects legal rights but it also helps to preserve relationships and work place culture.How Checketts McKay Can HelpAt Checketts McKay, we assist both employers and employees with practical and timely advice. Whether you need help drafting employment agreements, raising a grievance, or navigating mediation our employment team can guide you through the process. We aim to resolve issues early and constructively, reducing the stress and cost for everyone involved.

With summer here, many of us are taking annual holidays for time with loved ones. Central Otago, with its stunning landscapes and influx of visitors, becomes especially busy during the festive season. Unfortunately, this also coincides with a rise in theft and burglary.According to NZ Police, burglary and theft made up 73% of crime in the Central Otago region in 2024, a reminder that rural areas are not immune to opportunistic crime.With simple signs like overflowing mailboxes, curtains shut for weeks, or a dark house at night, it doesn’t take much to make a home look empty. A few proactive steps before you head away, along with checking your insurance cover, can make all the difference.  1. Secure your place before you goBefore loading up the car or catching that early flight, take a moment to run through a quick home-security checklist:Lock every door, including side and back entrancesClose all windowsSecure sheds, garages, and outbuildingsKeep valuables out of sightReinforce sliding doors with a simple bar or piece of timberEven a small oversight, like a window left slightly open, can make your home vulnerable.Treat this checklist the same way you would your packing list.2. Let whānau or neighbours know you’ll be awayA trusted neighbour is one of Central Otago’s greatest security assets.Let them know the dates you’ll be gone so they can keep an eye out. Small actions go a long way — collecting mail, putting out bins, or parking a car in your driveway can all help your home look lived in. If they do spot anything unusual, it’s always best they call 111 straight away.3. Make the place look lived inBurglars tend to target homes that appear empty. A few simple touches can help:Use timers for indoor lightsLeave curtains slightly openArrange for the lawns to be mowed if you’ll be away a whileKeep the mailbox clearThese small details help your home blend in with the everyday rhythm of the neighbourhood.4. Think about adding a security systemModern systems are easier to use and more affordable than they used to be. Many allow you to check in on your home from your phone, giving you peace of mind no matter where your holiday takes you.Even a basic system with a couple of cameras or sensors can deter unwanted visitors. Some insurers may even offer discounts for approved setups.Summer should be a time to relax, not worry about what’s happening back home. With a bit of preparation, support from neighbours, and the right insurance cover, you can head off knowing your place is in good shape.If you’d like to check whether your current policy still fits your needs, the team at C&R Brokers is always happy to help. Sponsored Content: This article has been submitted by a contributing local expert as part of The Central App’s sponsored advisor programme.

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Central Otago Police investigating a burglary in Alexandra yesterday are seeking the public’s help to locate a related vehicle.After the burglary on Saturday 3 January, a first stolen vehicle was dumped near Ōmakau.A second vehicle, a white Holden Colorado ute, was stolen from Ōmakau about 1pm - and it is this vehicle Police are seeking.A trailer, and the ute owner’s dogs, were with the ute at the time it was stolen.The trailer has been found, but the ute and dogs have not yet been located.If you have witnessed the incident, have knowledge of the ute or dogs’ whereabouts, or have dashcam, mobile phone or CCTV footage in the Maniototo area that can assist, please get in touch.Contact Police through 105 either online or over the phone using reference number 260103/4368.Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111. 

Names, email addresses and GPS locations - as well as posts and private messages - of users of the Stuff-owned community website Neighbourly have been put up for sale on the dark web.Neighbourly is back online after being shut down on New Year's Day when its operators became aware of a data breach.A website monitoring the dark web says a massive database of information belonging to Neighbourly was put up for sale over Christmas.Daily Dark Web said a user claiming to possess more than 213 million lines of data from the site offered the information for sale on a cybercrime marketplace.Neighbourly has told its members it will look to seek a court injunction against the use of any of the material, but said it was satisfied the breach was quickly contained.The breach came the same week as details of up to 126,000 ManageMyHealth users were accessed without authorisation.

Police are asking the public to help identify a man who was on Ballarat Street in Queenstown in the early hours of Thursday 1 January.Police are asking anyone who does recognise the individual to update them through 105, either online or over the phone.The reference number is 260101/7878.Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

Summer is the perfect time to slow down, find a patch of shade, and get lost in a good story. To inspire your own holiday reading stack, we’ve asked local booklovers to share their top picks from the past year and reveal where they’ll be curling up with a book this season.Today, we are reading with Alexandra Paper Plus co-owner Stevie Robinson.1. What is a great read from 2025 you would recommend to others, and why?Stevie: Locked Door and Housemaid. Both Frieda McFadden books were gripping, twisty thrillers that kept me second-guessing everyone. Fast-paced, dark, and addictive - I couldn’t put them down.2. What is on your summer reading list, and can you describe your perfect spot to read?Stevie: More Freida and back to my fav Steve Cavanagh as he has a new book out! Fav place to read is anywhere in the sun!3. Audiobook, paper, e-reader, or a mix of the three?Stevie: Always hard copy! I’m old school!4. Tell us about a book that changed how you think.Stevie: Diary of a CEO, bite sized gold! Such a great read! Steven Bartlett is a clever engaging guy! 

Alt-folk musician Janie Shaw is back in St Bathans this summer, saving money for her first album which is due to be released in May 2026.The 27-year-old draws inspiration from the late sixties and seventies, weaving folk influences with hints of Americana. Based in Christchurch where she has been working full time on her music and part-time as an art therapist, she’s back on the family farm driving tractors for her father’s contracting business, to help pay for her debut album - ‘Mythology of the Girls.’“With an album there’s a lot of moving parts. Everything has to be mixed and mastered.” Otherwise known as ‘Just Janie,’ - her EP ‘Muse and Musician’ surpassed a million streams and gained her nationwide recognition in 2024.But she’s enjoying being home, working out in the fresh country air with Daisy the Jack Russell by her side in her tractor cab, which has air conditioning and Wifi to play her music (most importantly).Just Janie’s top 2 songs on her playlist:1. ‘Kāhore He Manu E’ - Marlon Williams and Lorde: Click here to listen Janie and her mother went to this concert in Christchurch earlier this year at the town hall, and were blown away with the atmosphere.“I don’t think I have ever felt so overwhelmed with pride from such a beautiful experience. You could feel the energy and the meaning behind the songs,” she said, even though she doesn’t understand Te Reo Māori.Janie has fond memories of singing waiata right back to her primary school days and can still remember the words to every song she’s learned in Te Reo.“As someone with very basic Te Reo, this album has encouraged me to learn more and practise through music.”2. ‘See You Later I’m Gone,’ - Robert Lester Folsom.Click here to listen This song was first released back in 1978 but never made it big - until 2010. Robert gave up music to become a house painter and then for some reason the song went viral more than 30 years later - with 9 million streams worldwide.“It was just one of those unlucky things. But now with the power of the internet… how beautiful that he is getting his time now. The world is so mysterious,” Janie said.“I think this is really inspiring as a musician trying to break into the industry that your moment may come when you're least expecting it.”

A 42-year-old man appeared in the Invercargill District Court today (2January) after a reported firearms offence in the Tapanui-Raes Junction area yesterday.A Police media spokesman says a person was taken into Police custody at an address on Tapanui-Raes Junction Highway yesterday. No injuries were reported.The man faces three charges of unlawful possession of a firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, three charges of failing to comply with conditions, burglary, believed to have occurred at an address near Roxburgh, and unlawfully taking a motor vehicle. With the matter now before the courts no further information could be provided, the spokesman says.

We are continuing our ‘Five minutes with…’ summer series, where we slow the pace down to celebrate some of the people who make our district tick.We’ve put the same five questions to a range of residents to find out a bit more about who they are and get their unique take on life in our region.Today, we catch up with The Central App’s own Dorothy Boyd, who swapped dentistry in Dunedin for Central Otago life.1. What was one of your very first jobs, and what did it teach you?Dorothy: My first job was potato picking in the North East of Scotland. We had school holidays in October called the "tattie picking holidays". The kids were picked up in a cattle truck outside the local police station before the sun was up - not very health and safely conscious back then! The mornings were bitterly cold, but the day warmed up when the sun rose.I liked the smell of the soil and the tractor engine. In the breaks for morning tea and lunch we could ease our sore backs by stretching out across the drills - probably quite ergonomic! Once when it rained the farmer put all us kids in the barn and turned on the grain driers. Then when we were dry we went back out. I learnt that a bit of slog was worth it, because at the end of the two weeks (I was paid eight pounds a day) I bought the road bike that I had my eye on.2. When the holiday crowds arrive, where is your secret spot to escape the heat?Dorothy: That's easy - just my verandah, where we have some old lounge chairs and a sofa. Roses and wisteria tumble at the edges, and make it a secret space. I love to spend an hour or two reading with a mug of good strong tea. And I love to swim in the Blue Lake later in the day when the crowds have gone home for dinner.3. It’s peak stone fruit season: Cherries, apricots, peaches or nectarines - you can only pick one. Which is it and what's your favourite way to eat it?Dorothy: Cherries. I like to eat them just as they are, warm in the sunshine. 4. What is a hidden talent or weird party trick that nobody expects from you?Dorothy: Hmmm...I can hula hoop, does that count? Or maybe a better one is making my own haggis from scratch. I found I couldn't buy the crumbly oatie textured haggis that I know and love, so I started to make my own. It is based on the recipe from the Great British Chefs. I make a wee tweak every batch and write it down. It's close to perfect now!5. Complete this sentence: "You know you’re a local in Central Otago when..."Dorothy: Oh my goodness - I don't think I can call myself a local and get away with it - not with this accent, and with a place in Central for just 19 years!

Central Otago Police clocked three drivers – two who were overseas visitors, allegedly travelling at excessive speeds during the holiday break – one overseas driver allegedly driving at a whopping 170km/hr on 28 December.Otago Lakes Central Acting Area Roading Policing Manager Sergeant Derek Ealson says that overseas driver will appear in the Queenstown District Court on 5 January charged with driving at dangerous speed. His vehicle was impounded and his licence suspended for 28 days. Another overseas driver was caught allegedly travelling at 135km/hr on the open road in the Maniototo area on Boxing Day. “He had previously had his driver’s licence suspended for 28 days for a similar offence and was awaiting his court appearance,” Ealson says. The man was given a speeding ticket, and his vehicle was impounded for 28 days.  Another male driver was allegedly clocked at 141km/hr in the same Maniototo area on Boxing Day. He was issued with a speeding ticket and his driver’s licence was suspended for 28 days. Police have recently aired concerns about some of the high speeds reached by both overseas and New Zealand drivers, in some areas around the region.“There’s simply no excuse for speeding,” Ealson says. “The speed limitis just that – a limit – not a target. This summer we want all road users travelling throughout Aotearoa to get to and from their destinations safely.“We expect people to drive safely within the legally posted speed limit and depending on the conditions that may be slower than the limit,” he says. “Speed and travelling too fast for the conditions are contributing factors in almost all crashes resulting in serious injury or death, regardless of the cause.”Ealson says Central Otago Police have been out in force on the region’s roads during the holiday period “with a focus on maintaining and enforcing road safety”.More than 3600 drivers were breath tested locally during that time.“There was good compliance, except for New Year’s Day when six drivers were caught drink driving,” Ealson says. “Drivers need to be clear that if they are detected exhibiting any unsafe behaviours, they will be caught and be ticketed or face further enforcement action.”He says Police know there are four main behaviours which contribute to death and injury on our roads; people driving too fast for the conditions,driving while impaired (by alcohol, drugs, or fatigue), driving whiledistracted – including using a cell phone – and not being properlyrestrained.“You can expect to see Police anywhere, anytime on the road to deter any dangerous behaviour that impacts the safety of road users.”

Locals describe their favourite hidden spots - what do you love about this place and why is it special to you?Aimee WilsonWhat I love about having grown up in Alexandra and then returning years later as an adult, is discovering places that trigger a memory back to childhood.The drive to Conroys Dam is interesting from the start - my son and I passed an old timer coming back out the windy gravel road, and he wound down the window and told us about his gold claim success.We carried on to the dam carpark and consulted our maps about the location of the walk that promised old gold mining ruins and huts. I should’ve known by the topography of the DOC map that it wasn’t just a quick 4km loop walk.It was late morning on a summer’s day and I decided to leave my drink bottle in the car - but by the time we walked out 1.5 hours later we were hot and dehydrated.I should've learned by now never to go anywhere in Central Otago in the middle of summer without liquid.Following an old 4WD track on the true right bank of Conroys Creek at first, a more narrower interesting foot trail then leads to gold sluicings, and after 30 minutes of climbing steadily up hill and then winding around into a gully, a well-preserved rock shelter appears under overhanging bluffs.There are further alluvial gold workings on the left bank of Conroys Gully. You can possibly drink from the stream at the bottom of the gully, before winding your way back out the other side.Soon you come back out into the open where the Mokomoko Dryland lizard sanctuary is, and you follow the special fence line back down to the carpark - always a welcome site to see your vehicle in the distance, knowing water will be on hand again soon.

What are you happy to say goodbye to from the last year? What new experience would you commit to for the year ahead? What’s a routine you’ll prioritise that keeps you sane/brings you peace? Two-week holiday anywhere you want in 2026...? I’m a Christmas grinch so there’s definitely no Santa hat on my head but if I run through my other hats…Farmer hat…last year was a barely break even year so I’m desperately hopeful that next year might have that ever aspired for…profit. Sheep beef and venison all up on last year so the prospects are good at the moment. If the weather gods play ball, a bit more rain than last year and nothing expensive craps itself then we might just get there.Business hat…it was a tough year for my businesses, workload high, challenges with repairs and upgrades, and a drop off in volume. I have felt a recession for some time, I think we have teetered at the edge of it, but am very hopeful of a better year coming.Clown hat…the past ORC council I’m very happy to say goodbye to, and I really like the make up of the new council. I think we can really achieve efficiency, rates reductions, and streamline the necessary services of ORC. We’ve gone from the council that was the governments’ justification that regional councils have to go, to being the council that could turn that around. If the recent announcements proceed then ORC will be gone, but I’m hoping across the new year we can be included in assisting the mayors in shaping the future new look for regional and local government. Bring on unitary authorities.Christmas for me will be with our family at Dad’s, roast goose is a tradition we all love (with the exception of my army Colonel sister), and the irrigation will all need moved at some stage during the day. But I do wish everyone a very happy holiday season, thank you all for your support across the year and especially in the October elections, and best regards for the New Year.I’m hoping to have my next break in the middle of winter, when I escape to Melbourne for some downtime to reflect - but it won’t be two weeks.

As we launch into a new year, it’s common to set fresh resolutions.We think: “This year, I’ll finally get my finances in order.”But much like gym goals that fade by February, financial plans often lose traction when they feel too big or distant.What if the secret to lasting progress isn’t a dramatic overhaul… but a series of small, sustainable steps - steady habits that build momentum and confidence over time?That’s the core insight from David Booth, founder of Dimensional Fund Advisors. In his recent Kiplinger op-ed, he argues that the most effective strategy is “one small step for your money, one giant leap for retirement.”It’s a mindset that resonates deeply with how we at Central Financial Planning help clients make meaningful and lasting financial progress.Small Steps Make Big ProgressBooth encourages investors to define long-term goals first — like retiring comfortably or supporting family - and then ask a powerful question:“What small step can I take today that brings me closer to that future?”This could be as simple as:Increasing your KiwiSaver contributions by just 1% - For someone earning $70,000, that’s about $13 a week. You might not notice the change, but over time, it could add tens of thousands to your retirement savings.Setting up a monthly automatic transfer of $100 into a separate “travel fund” or “emergency savings” account - building good habits without needing to think about it each time.Reviewing your will or enduring power of attorney - Not exactly exciting, but critical for peace of mind and protecting your loved ones.Booking a financial check-in with your adviser - A quick catch-up can help you see where you stand, where you’re headed, and how to course-correct if needed.These steps may seem small, but as Booth puts it, when compounded over years, they can lead to “a giant leap for your retirement.”Why Big Resolutions Often FailAt the start of the year, bold goals are appealing: “I’ll get everything sorted this year!” But big changes without a clear path often lead to frustration or inaction.Small steps, on the other hand, create positive momentum. They’re easier to stick with, easier to measure, and more likely to build confidence along the way.As Booth says: “The best chance you have to make good decisions is to stick with a plan that can help you reach your destination.”Support Makes All the DifferenceEven the best-laid plans can fall by the wayside without structure and accountability.That’s why having a trusted adviser by your side can be so valuable.Your financial planner won't just give you a plan and leave you to it. They walk the journey with you - helping you:clarify what matters most to you,break big goals into manageable, realistic actions,and adjust course when life inevitably changes.They’re not there to push products or quick fixes. They offer thoughtful, long-term guidance designed to give you confidence, clarity, and control - every step of the way.Start This Year With One Step ForwardForget trying to do it all at once. Just take the next right step. Then the one after that.Here are a few practical small steps you can take this month:Haven’t reviewed your KiwiSaver in years? Book a 30-minute call with your financial planner to check if you’re in the right fund for your age and goals.Have some savings sitting idle? Consider allocating it more strategically to support your retirement income goals.Feeling overwhelmed by paperwork? Pick one thing to tick off - like updating your insurance beneficiaries or consolidating old super accounts.Whatever it is, start small. Then stay consistent.At Central Financial Planning we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way. If you haven't got a financial planner, contact us today!Sponsored Content: This article has been submitted by a contributing local expert as part of The Central App’s sponsored advisor programme.Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute personalised financial advice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Investment and financial planning involve risks, including potential loss of principal.

Five people were injured in a three-vehicle, high-speed crash in a narrow section of the Kawarau Gorge near Roaring Meg, blocking State Highway 6 from Gibbston to Cromwell temporarily this morning.A St John Ambulance spokesperson says two ambulance crews responded to the scene just before 10.30am, assessing five patients, one of whom was in a moderate condition, the other four in a minor condition.The patient in a moderate condition was transported by ambulance to Lakes District Hospital, she says.The accident occurred near the intersection of Kawarau Gorge Road and Cardrona-Roaring Meg Pack Track in the gorge.Fire and Emergency NZ Southern Communications Centre relieving shift manager Ian Littlejohn says St John called in their assistance to the “high velocity crash” with two Cromwell fire appliances and a support vehicle attending.“It was a three-car crash involving five patients, described as ‘walking wounded’. No one was trapped and we managed traffic and scene control with one lane blocked,” Littlejohn says.Police say enquiries into the circumstances surrounding the crash are ongoing.The highway was down to one lane after the crash.The road remained partially blocked for several hours while emergency services worked at the scene, reopening fully just before 12.30pm.Motorists were advised at the time to avoid the area and expect delays.Littlejohn says a single vehicle crash was also reported at Roaring Meg in the Kawarau Gorge around 4.20am today with one person receiving minor injuries.

For Trevor Goudie more than 30 years of service to the Alexandra community and local theatre “didn’t feel like work – just fun”.The 83-year-old retired accountant, who’s thrown his talents and skills into numerous community organisations, was awarded a KSM for that service in the New Years Honours list yesterday (December 31). New Year Honours 2026 - the full listWhile it’s all “quite nice really”, Trevor’s quick to point out that he couldn’t have achieved all that he has without the support of his wife, Claire, and others.“I’m very fortunate. It’s a reflection of what others think of what you’ve been doing,” he says.And he’s been doing a lot.Since moving to Alexandra in 1989 where he began 20 years of service as accountant at the newly amalgamated Central Otago District Council, Trevor’s been a jack of all trades sporting an impressive lineup of volunteer roles.“I’ve served multiple terms as president, been production manager, stage manager, stage crew and I’m currently treasurer for the Alexandra Musical Society. The only role I’ve not held is secretary,” he grins. “But it’s been a cooperative effort with Claire.”Trevor says they first got involved with the Musical Society when two of their three sons were youngsters.In 2002 sons Simon and Nicholas, and Trevor were all on stage taking part in ‘A Little of What You Fancy’. Simon is now programme leader for the National Academy of Singing and Dramatic Art in Christchurch and Nicholas works for a theatre company in Melbourne.Fame on the local stage hasn’t always come easy for Trevor. “One year in the early days I was ‘Rattlesnake’ in Calamity Jane and each night I had to literally fall through the bat-wing doors from the bar off the stage to be realistic, landing on my shoulder,” he chuckles. “That was a bit painful.” Typically, Trevor gives everything 100%.He was made a Life Member of the Society for his efforts in 2017, also a Life Member of Alexandra Men’s Shed, which he’s been involved with for more than 10 years, starting as an early volunteer, now treasurer and trustee.“That’s been an opportunity to gain skills I didn’t have, like recently learning to turn on a metal lathe – my long-term objective,” he says.“That was quite satisfying.” Trevor was right there amongst it helping fundraise for this initiative and the blokes recently made seven large, luxurious two-storey dog kennels for the Otago Hunt Club.Trevor was an original trustee and is now a life member too of the Dunedin Light Rail Trust, something he’s passionate about having grown up in the city enjoying the Mornington cable car. From 2015 he fundraised for the reestablishment of the historic cable car line and built a display shed, lending his finance skills to a feasibility study for that project as well.“As kids we used the cable cars regularly,” he says. “At primary school age six of us would move one of the trailers across the holding track from where the lines went down on High Street to the cake shop, movingit back and forwards for fun.”A former joint county treasurer split between the Tuapeka and Clutha County Councils prior to the 1989 amalgamation, Trevor says it was “a no brainer” when he was offered the choice of accounting roles at either Alexandra or Balclutha. Serving on the Alexandra Community Arts Council for almost 12 years, Trevor’s been involved with distributing grant funding from creative communities and the Central Lakes Trust for the Arts Council of which he’s a past treasurer.With eldest son Logan severely affected by autism Trevor has been a firm supporter and volunteer for the local IHC, an organistion dear to his heart. He’s also been involved locally with Scouts and served on school boards of trustees when his sons were younger. However, even at 83 Trevor hasn’t got time to play bowls like other retirees.“Heck no! I’m far too busy! We live on a 5-acre block.”Although he does get a kick out of singing for the RSA Gentleman Singers, performing at rest homes around Alexandra.