The duck population will be significantly reduced across Central Otago this weekend, and a planned goat cull was also planned for the Cromwell Gorge.Alexandra Police Senior Sergeant Graham Perkins reminded duck shooters to be vigilant heading into opening weekend.Remembering basic firearm safety was important such as identifying your targets and being mindful of those around you for public safety.Drinking alcohol was another risk and best saved for the end of the day when the hunting had finished, Snr Sgt Perkins said.If children were accompanying adults they should be wearing ear protection, and legally nobody under 16 should be in possession of a weapon.“And finally look after your dog, feed it and keep it warm,” he said.According to the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council, which supports hunter safety and carries out firearms training, 87 per cent of game bird hunting injuries occur in May and 50 per cent over opening weekend.Falling, tripping and slipping in or around the maimai is the most common cause of duck hunting injury, but firearms incidents also occur, such as proximity-related injuries, hearing loss, as well as facial and eye injuries.Fish and Game officers would be out and about checking licences, and there will be a strong police presence, particularly in the Maniototo, carrying out breath testing on road users.Motorists travelling through the Cromwell Gorge recently would have noticed many wild goats and their small families that have come down from the hills to find fresh feed.Snr Sgt Perkins said Aspiring Highways had a goat cull planned for May, as numbers have started to escalate and encroach on the road verge.

The Alexandra Blossom Festival committee is disappointed by comments made by the Vincent Community Board (VCB) this week that it should work towards becoming financially self-sustainable. Festival organiser Martin McPherson, who sits on the VCB, was not privy to the discussion and declared a conflict of interest - removing himself from the meeting.Festival treasurer Tim Coughlan spoke to the recent grant application on Tuesday and said he was “deeply disappointed’’ to hear the comments made by council staff and board members about the festival’s sustainability.  To his knowledge this has never been raised as an issue with the festival committee.The VCB has granted $20,000 for this year’s festival - less than a tenth of the cost to run the event ($224,400), and $4000 less than what it received last year.Tim said when the opportunity arose to clarify any issues or concerns the VCB had with supporting the festival, they chose to remain silent, with discussions about sustainability held after he had left.VCB chair Tamah Alley said, when approached for comment, Tim could have remained for the discussion, and she acknowledged to him that she could have specifically invited him to, and will in the future.“It was important for the board to have a conversation directly with the blossom festival committee rather than through alternate channels. “I have spoken with members of the committee and we all look forward to meeting soon to talk through how to support this event into the future.”She said the VCB “whole heartedly” supported the festival, “and as the current cost of living makes life challenging, it is important that fun events in our community remain accessible to as many people as possible. The committee has always strived for this by subsidising entry fees. It is important to consider all options with a long-term view to ensure this event remains accessible and viable for years to come."The Alexandra Blossom Festival has been a cornerstone event in Alexandra and the wider region for 67 years, attracting visitors from across New Zealand, and internationally. The past two years saw more than 12,000 people attend the Party in the Park - with 17,500 attending the Grand Parade - many of them from out of town. Festival chairwoman Sharleen Stirling-Lindsay said the festival had survived more than six decades despite the odds, and was a non -for-profit entity that relied heavily on generous sponsorship, grants and donations. “The festival has survived recessions, Covid-19 lockdowns, extreme weather and a cost of living crisis, but only with the support of the community and key grants and sponsorship stakeholders.  “Where other events have folded, the blossom festival is still standing, proving the not-for-profit event is sustainable, with the support of generous sponsorship, grants and donations,’’ she said. Sharleen said she welcomed the opportunity to discuss with members of the Vincent Community Board any concerns they may have regarding the festival. “We have always said the festival is by our community, for our community - but if our own community can’t afford to go, then what’s the point?’’ 

At Collinson Wealth Partners we take a holistic approach to personal finance with emphasis on simplicity, common sense, and a long-term perspective.We believe with this approach; you are less inclined to take the wrong path and get distracted from securing your financial future, which in this business is an easy thing to do with all the noise and emotions involved when it comes to money!Build Wealth Through Emotional IntelligenceBuilding wealth is a process of consistent saving, investing and adhering to a well-thought-out plan, regardless of market fluctuations.Emotional intelligence - more so than just intellectual intelligence - is the key to your financial future, especially when making investment decisions. But it is also the hardest part. Controlling your emotions and avoiding the temptation of jumping in and jumping out of the market is crucial to financial success.Wealth accumulation is best done gradually with patience, discipline and a focus on setting and achieving personal and financial goals. Align Level of Risk with Life StageAnother complication is that life experience shapes our perception of potential risk. Our capacity and need to take financial risks should be aligned with our stage in life, financial situation, objectives, and individual risk tolerance.At the end of the day, we are all mostly looking for financial security and peace of mind. This can be achieved by creating a financial plan resilient enough to withstand market uncertainties, while being flexible enough to adapt to individual needs. Keep It SimpleThe modern financial landscape provides us with opportunities and challenges. The ease of automating investments and a wide range of financial products can be a positive and a negative.Automation can simplify the process, but new investment options can overcomplicate and cause you to deviate from your wealth plan.Most success comes from getting the plan and financial goals right at the beginning, and then letting time and compounding do the heavy lifting, without getting interrupted by new investment strategies/products, ideas, or attempts to time the market. SummarySo, the keys to wealth management are understanding the physiological aspect of investing, the value of keeping it simple and maintaining focus on the long term. This is where advice from an experienced and knowledgeable investment specialist can make all the difference.We at Collinson Wealth believe our core value lies in helping clients create their financial plan and keep their focus on what is important to them in the long term; keeping them from being distracted by the noise and promise of instant wealth which appears so prevalent in the modern investment environment.The information contained in this publication is general in nature and is not intended to be personalised financial advice. Before making any financial decisions, you should consult a professional financial adviser.Collinson Wealth Partners FSP 743091 believes the information in this publication is correct, and it has reasonable grounds for any opinion or recommendation contained in this publication on the date of this publication.  

The word on the street is that using job titles or language like Superstar, Rockstar, Boy/Girl Friday, or Ninja in job advertisements may not be as effective nowadays when seeking candidates to join your team.It can say more about you than the potential candidates.And let's be honest, we all embody these qualities when we're in a fulfilling role, appreciated, and working at our very best ability!So here are some top tips for kicking off your recruitment campaign in the right vain!1. Grab Attention with an Engaging TitleThink creatively to capture the interest of your perfect candidate. What would make them pause and take notice? Consider what unique opportunities your position offers: flexible working hours, school hours, remote work, health insurance, training, and career development!2. Keep It Clear and ConciseIn a world of information overload, brevity is key.Write with clarity, using action verbs to make your ad easy to read. Trim unnecessary words and streamline your message, drawing from the job description – we all love a few bullet points! You should be able to easily condense all your details into 250 words.And to really kick your job listing up a notch, getting current employees involved adds that extra touch of authenticity.You may feel the need to include lots of details about your business but anyone worth their salt will go straight to your website and socials and find that information out for themselves.Additionally, if you include the hourly rate/salary range, you are going to get over 40% more engagement. People don’t enjoy ambiguity when it comes to money, so take the awkwardness out of those initial conversations. It will save a lot of backwards and forwards later in the recruitment process.3. Define Your Ideal CandidatePaint a clear picture of who you're looking for. Developing a "target candidate persona" helps you go beyond basic qualifications and envision the perfect fit for your team.Also, think about the kind of person you don't want to attract. If you need a strong leader, make that clear. If a nurturing vibe is what you need, then focus on that in your wording.4. Showcase Your Company's AppealHighlight what makes your company stand out from the competition. If you have company values that you put into action, then this is where you can really shine! Emphasise exciting projects, growth opportunities, and benefits. Let potential candidates see why joining your team is a game-changer for their career.5. Outline the Application ProcessMake the hiring process seamless and straightforward to encourage qualified candidates to apply. For instance, instead of a lengthy instruction, opt for a direct call to action like: "Send CV & cover letter to: [address]."You can also include a closing date for applications, but this might run the risk of discouraging a great applicant from applying if it’s a few days past. You can take advertisements down once you have decided to move forward to interviewing.Need some help?For guidance in recruitment and retention, your local specialist team EASI NZ are happy to help in all or any parts of the recruitment process. From developing job descriptions to reference checking, we are here for you! 

Driving for Perfection on Old Golf Course Road10 Old Golf Course Road, AlexandraEnquiries over $2,100,000Escape to the perfect blend of comfort and style, town and lifestyle, on the edge of the picturesque Alexandra basin. Taking in the current beautiful Autumn colours, the stunning surrounding landscapes, views, all day sun you can indulge in the serenity of this executive 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom oasis boasting spacious living areas including a separate lounge for cozy nights by the open fire. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Peter Hishon.Family approved!9 Kohinoor Lane, CromwellEnquiries over $1,035,000Nestled in the coveted Prospectors Park, in Central Cromwell - an easy walking distance from Lake Dunstan, Heritage Precinct, Golf Course, Shops and more. Our latest listing will excite families looking for a home with space, flexibility and all the mod cons in a central location. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Keeley Anderson and Siobhan Ramage.Discover Cromwell Living Today!7 Electric Place, CromwellDeadline SaleStep into luxury through an enticing entrance to your newly expanded garage, perfect for all your vehicles and storage needs. Fully fenced for peace of mind, your furry friends can roam freely in the lush, landscaped yard, kept vibrant and green with efficient irrigation. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Kate Andrew.Contemporary Home With Ample Space!30 Ethereal Crescent, Mount PisaDeadline SaleStep into a modern contemporary masterpiece offering fabulous views and an expansive living experience. This remarkable home, built approximately in 2018, is perfectly situated close to the serene lake and scenic Dunstan trail, in Pisa Moorings, just 15 minutes from Cromwell and approximately 50 minutes from Wanaka and Queenstown. ensuring both convenience and tranquility. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Kate Andrew.Good Starter Or Holiday Home7 Old Bridge Road, AlexandraDeadline SaleA family home nestled in a peaceful neighborhood. This property offers a comfortable and convenient lifestyle, with easy access to the river and cycle trail. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Stacey Waldron and Rebecca Ireland.Downsize Into Prime Location14 Schaumann Street, AlexandraEnquiries Over $715,000Discover the perfect blend of comfort and convenience at 14 Schaumann Street. This inviting home boasts two spacious double bedrooms, plus a versatile single bedroom or office space - ideal for modern living. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Peter Hishon.Cromwell Lifestyle Opportunity94 Pearson Road, CromwellDeadline SaleWelcome to 94 Pearson Road. Ideal for those seeking an orchard lifestyle with income potential, as well as homeowners yearning for a harmonious blend of comfort, sustainability, and breathtaking natural surroundings. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Kate Andrew.Modern Living At Its Finest!30a Monaghan Street, CromwellEnquiries Over $890,000Setting the standard for chic, modern living, this contemporary low maintenance home will impress and inspire. Located in sought after Old Cromwell and surrounded by mountain views. Its conveniently across the street from popular Cromwell Primary and an easy walk to the Heritage Precinct, Lake Dunstan - ideal for first-home buyers, investors and more. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Keeley Anderson and Dimple Tuteja.A Spectacular Luxury Pisa Home!39 Missy Crescent, Mount PisaEnquiries Over $1,525,000Behind the private high fence is a spectacularly luxurious family home located in affluent and desirable Pisa Moorings, one of the most admired and sought-after areas in the region, nestled on the edge of Lake Dunstan - a short drive from Cromwell, Queenstown, and Wanaka. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Keeley Anderson and Siobhan Ramage.Families Get Excited!69 Wallis Drive, CromwellEnquiries Over $1,265,000Families looking to upsize or relocate to Central will get excited with our latest listing in popular Prospectors Park. A short walk to Lake Dunstan, the Cromwell Golf Course, Schools, supermarket, and more - this four-bedroom modern and substantial home will exceed expectations. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Keeley Anderson and Siobhan Ramage.A Step Onto The Property Ladder!2 Gavan Street, CromwellEnquiries Over $650,000Welcome to this charming and versatile 1960's gem with LIM available, offering something for everyone - whether you're a first-time buyer, investor, or holiday maker. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Kate Andrew.Rural Oasis: The Station Retreat In Omakau11 Half Time Close, OmakauEnquiries Over $1,000,000Escape to your own rural oasis at "The Station" retreat in Omakau. This exceptional property offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern luxury, providing a sanctuary for relaxation and leisure. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Peter Hishon.OPEN HOMESOpen HomesNOW SOLD

From Monday cellphones were banned in New Zealand schools, with the Minister of Education Erica Stanford’s message being “phones away for the day”. Central schools are well placed to keep students focused on learning in a phone free environment because many have adhered to the ban for months in advance.The new regulation states that "schools must ensure students do not use or access a phone while they are attending school, including during lunch time and breaks. This includes students who are on a school course or visit outside the school grounds." As students returned to school this year, The Central App asked some Central secondary schools how they were approaching the cell phone situation.On January 30, Cromwell College (CC) principal Mason Stretch said CC had banned them last year for students in year seven to 12.Mason said there was strong support from the school community for this. The return to school for 2024 saw this ban extended to year 13 students; a term prior to implementation of the Government policy to ban cellphones in schools.After two days of the new nationwide regulation being in place CC has had very few issues, he said.“Students are understanding and accepting of the requirement [and] parents have also been supportive. If a student is seen with a phone at any time during the day, then a staff member will ask for it. It will then be stored safely in the office area.”“CC is currently collecting one or two phones per day, mainly from senior students."Parents pick up confiscated phones at the end of the day.”At CC, listening to music is at the discretion of the teacher and depends on the work for that lesson. “There would be no music during whole class instruction or group collaborative work. If music was allowed by the teacher it would generally be during independent tasks.”  Maniototo Area School (MAS) principal Melissa Bell said in early February that students have always handed phones in, and there were going to be no changes to the usual process for MAS.“Almost none of our students have smart watches so they are not an issue either.“Listening to music via laptops might be something that happens at certain times. For example, while working on an art portfolio. Headphones are not allowed during instruction time in any class,” Melissa said. Dunstan High School (DHS) has a new cell phone policy, which requires phones to be turned off and in a school bag between 8.55am and 3pm, they cannot be used in break times, and they must remain off until the student has left school. Smart watches cannot be used as a phone, and must have notifications turned off. In a return to a past practice, laminated copies of student timetables were distributed to DHS students, some of whom before now had timetables stored on their phones. The behaviour change stemming from the cell phone ban extends to whānau who need to contact students during the day, instead of firing off a text message or sending a voice memo, they need to call the school office. Feedback from students was mixed. One DHS student said they were still using their phones at break times, with no consequences and another said on Monday there were seven phones taken off students, and on Tuesday there were 11. There are exemptions to the ban such as if the student requires their phone for health purposes to monitor insulin levels, or for students aided by their phones to address barriers to accessing and participation in learning.  DHS acting principal Bryce Clapham was approached for comment, but missed the publishing deadline. One Central father said getting students off social media during school time might help their learning.“Teenagers are still online on snapchat, Tiktok, gaming and all the rest of that at the first chance they get.”Further information is available on the Ministry of Education’s webpage Phones away for the day. Read more: Kapa haka group welcomes Minister of Education The Central App would like to hear from Central youngsters about how they’re adjusting to being phone free at school. Send the news team an email, outside of school hours: [email protected] and share your thoughts. 

Sustainable Tarras has not let the Christchurch Airport proposal go, and now the Central Otago group is also submitting against the Santana Minerals gold mine operation.Local media and group spokesperson Suze Keith have both poked fun at Santana’s ‘scoping study’ which promotes plenty of employment opportunities for the local population.“Good news, every person (children, adults, workers, retirees, like absolutely everyone) living in Cromwell can be assured they’ve got a job with Santana Minerals,” Sustainable Tarras’ Facebook page says.Santana’s scoping study said ‘fly-in, fly-out’ of staff or major camps were not required when Cromwell had an 8000-strong labour pool, and there was main road access from State Highway 8.Sustainable Tarras is made up of just eight members, with support from people all over New Zealand, who meet fortnightly to discuss their research and findings, and make Official Information Act requests for important information on relevant high-profile projects.Suze said the group was particularly concerned with Santana’s ‘fast track’ proposal, which it believes will open up politicians to corruption, being the final decision maker.Site map of the area for the proposed Rise and Shine gold mine near Bendigo. PHOTO: SuppliedMaking a formal submission on the proposal, Suze said the group believed it was a form of authoritarianism not seen since the Muldoon era of the 1980s.The group advised against any developer in New Zealand using the fast-track process, as it risked being seen as disrespecting social licence, and alienated the local community.While Bendigo had been used to mine gold many years ago, it was not a landscape that recovered well from the industry activity, she said.Then there was the toxic waste left behind and storage dams built to contain that risking contamination of waterways.“Our infrastructure deficits do not lie in airports or gold mines. It’s not smart development,” she said.The Australian-owned company said several weeks ago that it expected to make a net profit of $2 billion, but was still a year away from starting its Rise and Shine prospect.The mine would operate for eight years as an open-cast mine and for four years underground, recovering 1.12 million ounces of gold.

A squad of 13 masters rowers from Dunstan Arm Rowing Club (DARC) smashed out 25 rowing races over the two-day South Island Masters Rowing Regatta held at Glendhu Bay, Wānaka, on April 25-26. The group collected three trophies and 10 gold medals. Coach Natalie Wilson said it was a successful weekend for the small squad who range in age from 30-60 years old.“[There are] those who are relatively new to the sport through to those who have previously rowed at representative level.”Trophies went to the fastest men’s quad crew of Kelvin Maker, Dave Hanan, Chris Brooks, Andrew Jolly, the fastest women’s four of Rebecca Kingan, Heather Breen, Natalie Wilson and Melissa Cragg (of Picton) and the fastest double team of Rebecca Kingan and Dana Leishman.Pictured (from left) are Dana Leishman and Rebecca Kingan. PHOTO: Supplied  On Friday fresh snow on the mountains brought chilly conditions and a stunning backdrop to the day, but due to choppy conditions the long-distance race was shortened from 5km to 2.5km. The South Island Masters Rowing was held in Wānaka last weekend with snowy vistas. PHOTO: Stephen DuncanDARC rowers were in a combined crew who won the mixed masters eight on Friday. The crew was Rebecca Kingan, Natalie Wilson, Emilie Nebulot (North Shore), Maude O'Connell (Cromwell) Jeff Steele, Quentin Annan, Phil Newsome, Wayne Gloag and coxswain Abbey Pederson.The men’s and women’s eights were another highlight of the regatta. In the women's four DARC rowers Rebecca Kingan, Heather Brennan, Dana Leishman and Natalie Wilson teamed up with Melissa Cragg (Picton), Anne Arnt (Union), Christina Blackford and Vanessa Felix (Avon) and coxed by Abbey Pederson. “They [had] a blistering race, rowing through the North Shore eight in the second half of the race to take line honours,” Natalie said.  The winning South Islands Masters women’s four was (from left) Rebecca Kingan (stroke), Heather Breen, Natalie Wilson and Melissa Cragg (Picton). PHOTO: Stephen Duncan. It was a tight battle in the men's eight with Kelvin Maker, Quentin Annan, Andrew Jolly, Chris Brooks, Gary Jack, Jeff Steele, Phil Newsome and Wayne Gloag and cox Abbey beating Picton on the finish line to win the gold.A prize giving and an evening function was held at the Lake Wānaka Centre, hosted by the Wānaka Rowing Club for competitors and supporters.Pictured (from left) are the gold winning crew of Chris Brooks, Dave Hanan, Kelvin Maker and Andrew Jolly. PHOTO: Stephen Duncan.Some DARC masters train all year round, getting together on the weekends for training, followed by breakfast and a few rowing yarns at one of Central’s cafes. “Some masters will hang up their oars over winter, but for others they'll pop on a few extra layers and continue to head out on the water."Planning is underway for a masters training weekend at Dunstan in late winter, with masters coming from all over New Zealand before the NZ Masters Rowing Regatta at Lake Karapiro in September.”For information see DARC’s listing.

The Alexandra Blossom Festival committee is working hard to build up its reserves in case it had to cancel the event at the last minute.Treasurer Tim Coughlan spoke to the Vincent Community Board (VCB) yesterday about how 2023 was a close call, with rain all week in the lead up to the September festival threatening the iconic event.“We were pretty close last year, but the weather gods came through with the sun at the last minute,” he said.According to its accountability report, the festival costs $224,400 a year to run and the VCB grants the festival $24,500 each year for the infrastructure.The committee also relies on corporate sponsorship - Contact Energy has been involved for many years, donations/fundraising in 2023 raised $126,000 and revenue on the day almost $100,000.Tim said they were looking at securing a new agreement with Contact Energy in coming months, but had also been advised the company was under a corporate review.VCB chair Tamah Alley questioned what would happen if the Blossom Festival was canned at the last minute, and how much of a loss they would face.Tim advised it would cost them $100,000 in reserves, but all market sales would be refunded.“We broke even last year, but there is not much room for error. “The committee was just “one event away” from not being able to go ahead if threatened by bad weather or another Covid-19-type outbreak.“All of our funding is short term and we have to do that annually.”Numbers attending last year’s Saturday in the Park was around 12,000 - similar to 2022.The board decided it was important to have another talk with the committee about how best it could become self-sustainable.Board member Tracy Paterson said it was so iconic to the region and was here to stay, “and we need it to stay.”

A French fruit picker working on a vineyard at Bendigo was airlifted to Dunedin Hospital last week, after getting stuck underneath a moving car without a driver.Alexandra Police Senior Constable Graham Perkins said the car was parked on an incline and started to roll backwards, picking up speed as it headed towards the fruit picker and knocked him over.“He became wedged underneath the vehicle which dragged him and rolled him and then spat him out the front,” he said.The incident happened on Lakeview Rd on private property so police wouldn’t be laying charges as it was a Worksafe New Zealand issue.Snr Const Perkins said he wasn’t sure how severe the man's injuries were, but it was obviously an extremely unpleasant experience for the backpacker - having not long arrived in New Zealand.In other police news, a civil dispute between a landlord and tenant in Omakau last week, resulted in the 65-year-old owner of the property being charged with cultivating cannabis.Snr Const Perkins said an argument broke out between the pair about unpaid rent, and the landlord called police.The local officer walked past the garage and smelled the cannabis. Five mature plants were later discovered, which had been harvested, along with a large quantity of marijuana on the bench.Back in Alexandra last weekend, two Central Otago men, aged 19 and 20, were arrested by police for interfering with a patrol car in Queenstown.Snr Const Perkins said one of the men was also charged with endangering transport after police had to pull over on the way to a job and pump up their tyres.Endangering transport carries a maximum sentence of 14 years' imprisonment. The pair were also identified by CCTV footage for stealing a taxi sign off the roof of another vehicle.They appeared in the Queenstown District Court on Monday morning and were bailed with conditions, which includes a curfew.   

A women’s Sunday social soccer league has started in Central and women of all ages and skill levels are welcome.Organisers are hoping to involve players from across the district to grow the sport as a whole.For the inaugural game almost 30 women met in Wānaka with ages ranging from high school students, to younger women in their 20s, mums and grandmothers getting involved.It was a multicultural game, with an emphasis on enjoyment, as players from Mexico, the United States, Argentina, Spain as well as New Zealanders and Australians took part. Some had never played in an eleven-a-side game previously, or with proper goals, nets and a referee.The women’s draw is planned to follow the junior football rotation, which moves between the four clubs every Sunday (Wānaka, Cromwell, Queenstown and Alexandra.)The next game is on Sunday, May 5, 3pm at Cromwell’s Anderson Park. To join in you need boots, shinpads, a water bottle and a good sense of fun.There are women’s squads regularly training in Alexandra and Cromwell, with the support of the Alexandra United Football Club and Cromwell Football Club. To find out more contact Jess Carrington on [email protected] or find the Alexandra Women’s Football group on Facebook.

Feeling overwhelmed by the idea of downsizing as retirement approaches? You're not alone. Many of us find ourselves faced with the prospect of downsizing. Whether it's to simplify our lives, reduce maintenance, or free up equity, downsizing can be a daunting task but ultimately a rewarding journey.Here's how to prepare for downsizing and make the transition smoother: Sort Out Your Budget:First things first, get a clear picture of your financial landscape.Seek a market appraisal from a trusted real estate agent to understand the estimated value of your current property. This information will be invaluable when determining your budget for a new, smaller home.Once you determine the price, remember to include legal fees, real estate agent fees, removal costs, and any other related expenses, as well as consider how much you want to set aside to support your retirement savings, before you complete your budget.This will provide you with a ballpark figure and help you make an informed decision on what houses you should be looking at.Research Several Properties:Once you have a budget in mind, make a list of your "must-haves". Your must-haves could include the number of bedrooms, office space, bathrooms, or even the level of maintenance required both internally and externally.While thinking about your "must-haves", you must also factor in what it might look like for you getting older. Proximity to amenities like supermarkets, medical care, and recreational facilities might be crucial to consider especially when things like driving become a challenge in the future.It might be worth exploring different housing options, such as retirement villages or houses closer to town, based on your needs and preferences.Aurum on Clutha residentsThe Future You:Getting older may mean your living space may have to look a little different.Some common considerations that people look into are single level with few stairs/stairways, internal access garage, low-cost heating, ensuite, wheelchair access and wet floor shower.Consider factors like medical dependency or convenience to amenities when making your decision too. Although homes like these are usually more favourable and can mean more demand, hiking up the prices. In Preparation For Downsizing:When downsizing you're not going to have the same storage space you once had, so you'll have to start decluttering and getting rid of items you no longer need. Consider giving back your children's belongings and consider hosting garage sales, donating to charity or putting extra belongings in a storage unit.While you might be excited to get rid of unwanted items, there may be quite a few sentimental items that can be hard to part with. Downsizing often requires making tough decisions about what to keep and what to let go, so start preparing months in advance to allow plenty of time for the decluttering process. Your real estate agent can also help you make decisions around decluttering.There are many areas of the house such as your kitchen or closet space that are likely to be smaller after you downsize, so it's a good opportunity to simplify and lighten your load across all areas of your life. With less square footage available, larger items like furniture pieces and heavy appliances might also need to be downsized or creatively arranged to fit the available space more efficiently. Don't Leave It Too Late:One common mistake is leaving downsizing too late. Waiting until health issues arise or mobility becomes limited can make the process more challenging. Start planning early to avoid unnecessary stress and ensure a smoother transition.Getting started early gives you extra time to spruce up your place for open houses or viewings. You can freshen things up with a new coat of paint or improve the lighting by switching out bulbs to better appeal to potential buyers. If you'd like some more suggestions, you can check out my article for some tips on getting your home ready for showings.Get The Help You Need:Consider involving family members in the downsizing process. They can provide support, help with decisions, and assist with the physical aspects of moving. Keeping lines of communication open ensures everyone is on the same page and can alleviate some of the burdens associated and decrease the stress levels with downsizing.Conclusion:Downsizing can be a significant life transition, but with careful planning and preparation, it can also be a fulfilling one.If you need some expert advice and guidance on budgeting, moving logistics, or navigating the real estate market, don't hesitate to reach out to me. We can support you every step of the way on your downsizing journey throughout Central Otago. 

Insurance brokers play a vital role in the complex world of insurance, acting as intermediaries between clients and insurance companies. But are they worth the investment? Let's delve into the reasons why getting a broker can be a valuable asset.Deeper understanding of the insurance marketFirstly, insurance brokers are experts. They have industry knowledge and extensive insurance advice that can be invaluable when navigating the myriad of options available.With their in-depth understanding of insurance policies and regulations, advisers can help clients assess their needs and find the most suitable coverage tailored to their specific requirements.Insurance personalised to your needsInsurance needs will differ from person to person. Insurance brokers can provide personalised service, taking the time to understand their client's unique circumstances and priorities, and helping them find the right type of insurance.By building long-term relationships based on trust and understanding, advisers can offer ongoing advice and support, ensuring that clients have adequate coverage regardless of whether their situation changes.Offering Diverse Options Beyond a Single ProviderAnother key benefit of using an adviser for insurance is access to a wide range of products from multiple insurance providers.Unlike an independent insurance agent who represents a single insurer, brokers have the flexibility to shop around and compare policies from various providers, ensuring that clients receive competitive pricing and comprehensive coverage options.Advisers are in your cornerAdditionally, insurance advisers advocate for their clients in the event of a claim, assisting with insurance claims processing and liaising with insurance companies on behalf of the policyholder.This can be particularly valuable during stressful times, as advisers work to expedite the claims process and maximise the benefits for their clients.Summary While insurance advisers may incur additional costs compared to purchasing insurance directly from an insurer, their experience, personalised service, expert advice, access to a wide range of insurance products, and ability to tailor coverage to individual needs can make all the difference for individuals and businesses seeking peace of mind and comprehensive insurance coverage. Don't hesitate to reach out and explore how a broker from C&R Insurance can make a difference for you and/or your business.Commercial - Horticulture & Viticulture - Rural - Personal - Life & Health - Income Protection 

Two winners of an Alexandra and Districts Parents Centre fundraising raffle scooped up $500 worth of groceries in a mad two-minute grocery grab yesterday. Mum-to-be Courtney Mudgway nominated her partner Alain to take the trolley around because she’s due to have their first child in mid-July. The other winner was Paul Anderson, who sent his son Joe Mugford to collect his family's winnings as he couldn't attend.Car seat coordinator Courtney Winstanley, winner Paul’s son Joe and APC president Nicola Rae. PHOTO: The Central AppAPC committee members thanked Helen and Shane Ryan from Alexandra New World for supporting the grocery grab and APC. Helen scanned the items after the two-minute dash. PHOTO: The Central AppCourtney had briefed Alain to get meat including roasts and steak. PHOTO: The Central AppThe store was open during the grocery grab and other shoppers were informed to stay aware of the action and give the runners plenty of room. Watch Alain’s sprint through the store, firmly focused on the butchery section. VIDEO: The Central AppAlain said he couldn’t steer due to his pace, and that the time constraint made him feel panicked. His trolley was jammed with sausages, chicken, pork roasts, steak and a last second grab of orange juice.Watch Joe’s turn, where he gets Kiwi favourites tomato sauce, milk and cheese. VIDEO: The Central AppJoe said the two minutes weirdly felt a bit longer.“I didn’t want to stay in one spot too long.”He spent time in the butchery and the dairy section, stocking up on whole chickens, eye fillet, bacon, 1kg cheese blocks, milk, tomato and burger sauce. He was the only one to get fresh vegetables, he nabbed a lettuce at the start of his run. His last-minute find was some chocolate, taking him to the $500 figure.There were some exclusions and winners could not put cigarettes, alcohol, Lotto or gift vouchers in their trolley. The APC raffle proceeds have gone towards four new car seats for the car seat hire service.As the cost of living continues to put pressure on household budgets the winners said they were grateful for the prize and chance to stock up for the winter months.Statistics New Zealand’s selected price indexes (released March 13) showed grocery food had a 3.9 per cent increase in cost in February 2024 than February last year.  Learn more about APC here.

Alexandra Police are noticing an increase in golf carts being used by players illegally on the road in Clyde.Senior Constable Graham Perkins said golf carts needed to be registered and warranted if driven on the road, and more and more players were using them as transport and pushing the boundaries to get to and from the Clyde golf course.“And they are coming from further afield.”Players could also be breath tested and were liable to the same conditions as a normal motorist.Alexandra Police have met with the Clyde Golf Club president who will advise members in a newsletter about their responsibilities.Snr Const Perkins said it was the same as a farmer using a quad bike between paddocks - their vehicles also required to be registered and warranted if used regularly on main roads.Meanwhile, a 64-year-old woman, who had been using an E-bike, was airlifted to Dunedin Hospital on Thursday after she was found lying on the Roxburgh Gorge track, north of the dam.Snr Const Perkins said she had been riding her bike alone and while her current condition was not known, it must have been serious if she was taken to hospital by the rescue helicopter.He said accidents on E-bikes were becoming more common, and riders needed to know their limits and be familiar with the track conditions, as well as their own riding capabilities. “They’re either coming around a corner too fast or cutting corners.”Last week a driver fell asleep at the wheel of his car near Lowburn between 7am to 8am, and side-swiped a truck coming in the other direction.Luckily there were no serious injuries, but the driver’s car received extensive damage.

Views on how willow trees could and should be managed throughout the Manuherekia Catchment were heard in Omakau last week.The session, which was funded by the Ministry for the Environment, allowed everyone to be part of the conversation on willow management, while also helping the group prioritise sites for action.The Manuherekia Catchment Group (MCG) hosted a public workshop at the Omakau Rugby Clubrooms on Wednesday, an event that attracted about a dozen people, keen to share their knowledge and opinions.MCG general manager Clare Hadley hosted the event alongside Sally Dicey and Mike Thorsen, both of Whirika Consulting in Dunedin.Clare said the input from the public had been good, with many keen to look at the detailed LiDAR data technology displayed on a big screen tv, which showcased where willows were located.The group said the aim was to get the community to provide input so they could understand community priorities and perspectives.Clare said the drop-in session was not designed to brand all willows as bad.A willow in the right place was a good thing, she said.But, a willow in the wrong place could be problematic, she added.In some cases, willows could consume a lot of water, ultimately affecting waterways, while also providing cover for trout, which can create a negative environment for Galaxias anomalus.However, a willow tree in the right place could also be a good thing, such as providing shelter.They are also good for long finned eel, as willows protect their habitat.Mike said while willows do not self-seed, a twig flowing down stream can re-establish itself.Willow leaves can also impact water quality by smothering organic matter, which affects the food chain and sucks the oxygen out of the water.Another negative was when willows choke up waterways, causing creeks to flood, break their banks, and affect crops.However, the group acknowledged there was a flip side, whereby if the wrong trees were removed, it could create instability.The MCG will now look at developing a strategic plan on willow management, based on the feedback it received.

A nationwide shortage of dentists is impacting Central, with local practices reporting three month waits for appointments. Central Dental practice manager Ben Paterson said they have been short by two dentists since the start of 2024.Ben said for Cromwell the wait was about four to six weeks for an appointment.“In Alexandra it’s booked out until halfway through June.”The practice has been advertising but Ben said they can’t compete with overseas.“Our job ads are lost in a sea of others.“On the New Zealand Dental Association website there are hundreds of ads.”The shortage has become widespread that Ben said “even Auckland is struggling for dentists.”Ben said that neighbouring districts' problems are spilling over into Central, as patients were travelling from Invercargill for treatment, and people from Queenstown were coming to Central for appointments.His message for locals is to make sure you are continuing with regular checkups and dental care.“We are trying to look after our own patients first . . . if you have an emergency it’s a matter of ringing around . . . there might be cancellations as there is a bit of Covid-19 still around.”Tarbert St Dental Surgery business owner and dental hygienist Emma Ishikawa said a few times a day they get phone calls or people popping in trying to get appointments.The business is also advertising for a dentist and have been for the past few years, with only a few applications coming in.Emma said they haven’t taken on any new patients since 2020.“We were lucky and got a wonderful dentist last year who is full time.”One of the Tarbert St Dental team dentists, Mark Smith, is splitting his time between New Zealand and the United Kingdom currently, but Emma said they are committed to looking after their enrolled patients and informing them that checkups may be slightly delayed.“If it’s an emergency, [for our patients] we will get you in within a day or so.”Emma said the main challenge in getting dentists to relocate to Central was accommodation.“I’ve spent more than 20 hours [in the past] trying to find accommodation for a locum dentist . . . it was the expense of it, then there was no flexibility around it.“We are looking at buying a place now, so we could rent it to a locum dentist.”Emma said they were a family run business, their staff were treated like family and everyone took great pride in their work, so not just anyone can join their team.“Friends of friends, and word of mouth” might just help with the shortage and she was hoping a dentist “popped out of the woodwork” to ease the waiting times. For dental emergencies in Central there is an on-call roster running on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. If you have an emergency after hours phone 03 746 6157 for help.

There has been a 10 percent increase in the number of years that New Zealanders are staying in paid work, since a mandatory retirement age was eliminated in 2000.A study by AgeCalculator.com using OECD data indicates New Zealand had the fourth highest increase in the age when workers retire and was the only non-European country to make the top 10 list.While government superannuation kicked in at 65, people were staying in work longer, with the average age rising to 67 years in 2020, from 61 in 2000.The findings were no surprise and reflected a positive change to retirement policies that took place in New Zealand 24 years ago, Retirement Commission policy lead Michelle Reyers said."New Zealand has got a number of policies in place that actually encourage older people to continue in paid work that don't actually exist in other countries. And this is really giving people flexibility and choice to decide when they're going to exit from paid work."Read more: How old is too old to still be working?In some countries, there was a mandatory retirement age."And because New Zealand Super is not mean tested, there's no disincentive to continue work beyond age 65," she said."So all of these things are playing a bit of a role when you do comparisons with other countries."She said a 25 percent workforce participation rate of New Zealanders over the age of 65 was also one of the largest such groups in the OECD."There are a whole lot of things going on in the background that are actually encouraging ongoing participation in the workforce for older workers in New Zealand."She said there were also government policies to encourage employers to improve workplace flexibility for older workers."We know from research that people are wanting to transition into retirement and not just stop altogether."And we know it's really important to eliminate ageism, or age discrimination in the workforce, and really important for training and upskilling for older workers to allow them to continue working if that's what they choose to do."The Retirement Commission wanted a cross-party political agreement to keep the superannuation age at 65.In February, Commissioner Jane Wrightson said a superannuation age of 65 was "perfectly affordable" at the moment, but if that changed, access to NZ Super could be income tested.National wanted to raise the age to 67 from 2044, while Labour was sticking with 65.

Central Otago’s business community has a new platform for growth and support with the establishment of Business South Central Otago (BSCO). BSCO is a result of collaborative efforts of Business South and the Central Otago advisory committee (COAC) to support all businesses within the region.The new entity seeks to empower Central’s business community, fostering an environment where businesses can thrive and flourish. It aims to address challenges and seize opportunities to benefit the entire business community.COAC will be rebranded to Business South Central Otago (BSCO), to show integration with Business South and its resources. Soon BSCO plans to name its committee members and extend invitations for broader participation, ensuring representation from diverse industries. BSCO chairperson Dewald de Beer said he was honoured to be part of this journey.“The establishment of BSCO signifies a bright future for our region, and we are committed to leveraging every opportunity to propel our community forward. I want to thank Mike Collins, CEO of Business South, and the entire Business South board for their steadfast support and dedication to the region's growth.”BSCO chairperson and CR Insurance adviser Dewald De Beer. PHOTO: SuppliedFor information contact  Business South regional business navigator Amanda Cushen on [email protected] or Dewald de Beer on [email protected].