An intensive residential subdivision is being proposed along Alexandra’s Dunstan Road.Glenoir LP is a land development entity comprising Shanon Garden, George Collier and Shaun O’Docherty, hoping to subdivide the 4.1ha property into a 30-lot housing development.The Central Otago District Council invited submissions on the proposal and noted four adjoining landowners on Dunstan, Gilligan’s Gully and Hillview Roads as being adversely affected.The application was made under the new Plan Change 19 (PC19) zoning that was about to be changed from a Rural Resource Area to Large Lot Residential, but it was still subject to an appeal by the company in the Environment Court.Glenoir LP hoped to change the zoning to Low Density Residential, and that would mean the majority of the development would be complying (Lots 5-30 ranged from 900sqm to 1880sqm).Meanwhile, further along Dunstan Road, Molyneux Lifestyle Village was granted resource consent for its 16ha William Hill winery subdivision after eight years.Owner Russell Ibbotson said he was still waiting on the tender documents for the engineering specifications, but he hoped the Large Lot subdivision would go to market in the next few months.The old winery site would offer a range of 2000sqm to 3000sqm sections and was fully compliant with the District Plan.He said the new housing developments, including Ngai Tahu, were great for Alexandra, “because we badly need it.”Meanwhile, Glenoir’s application stated that the design of the subdivision and the allotment density was made under the Comprehensive Residential Development (CRD) framework introduced into the District Plan.The CRD framework allowed for lots to be created below the 1500sqm minimum lot sizes, provided the threshold for minimum development area was achieved as an average across the total or gross site area - the site also had to be at least 2ha.Glenoir LP applied for resource consent in September 2023, and revised its application down to just 30 lots a year later - the proposal was then withdrawn and the current one lodged in its place.The developers also want to introduce four small lots with a higher urban density, to allow for a variety of housing typologies - of between 550sqm-700sqm.Smaller lot sizes promoted lower cost housing as well as enabling viable rental investment opportunities, and the developers believed this node of housing was in keeping with the character of the surrounding neighbourhood.Glenoir LP said in its application that the subdivision sought to enable some variation in lot sizing, “reflecting the inherent benefit of allowing for a variety of residential living options, within communities, and avoid ‘one-size-fits-all’ urban form.”The size of the sections increased at the rear of the property, where the landscape was sloped and bordered the tree belt behind.Submissions closed Friday June 6 with a hearing to follow.Have a story to share? Contact [email protected]

150 years ago schooling came to the Ida Valley and this labour weekend there will be plenty of yarns shared as past principals, pupils and families get together to mark the jubilee.Organiser and Poolburn School teacher Deb Stevens said the organising committee already had approximately 70 registrations in, and they were hoping to double that.Lots of activities are planned including a school tour with memorabilia, a photo session of each of the decades, tree planting ceremony, a chance to relive the old school bus route, speeches and an ”old fashioned knees up “ dinner and dance at the Poolburn Hall.Deb has taught at Poolburn School for the past 10 years, and all of her own children have gone through the school. Deb Stevens. PHOTO: Poolburn School “In typical Ida Valley fashion things will come in late…. But it’s a great place. We’ve got lots of children who are generational and from families in the valley.”Deb said a book ‘School reunion 100 years Poolburn Moa Creek 1874-1974’ was collated for the 100th jubilee, it has insights into history and the organisers had enjoyed looking back on how things were. Fellow organising committee member Carol Goodlass said the fabulous original parents used their own funds to get a school established.  “In 1873 a group of the local men began negotiating with the Otago Education Board to establish the first school in the valley. It opened 1874 at Ida Valley Station.”An excerpt from the 100th anniversary book details challenges with heating and water supply. PHOTO: Supplied Pupils used to walk, or come by horse to school and the Moa Creek-Poolburn teacher split his week and walked the miles from one to the other.For more information about the weekend contact [email protected]. Registrations are due by May 31.See the anniversary listing here Have a story to share?Contact [email protected] 

Police have paused their search for a tramper missing in Milford Sound since last Sunday, following six days of intensive efforts in extreme conditions.Acting Southern District Commander, Inspector Matt Scoles, confirmed the decision today, describing it as “incredibly difficult” for both police and the tramper’s loved ones.“We have been supporting the tramper’s family and we know this is difficult news for them to hear at what has been an incredibly distressing time,” Inspector Scoles says. “Police remains in frequent contact with the family.”Over the past week, search crews have scoured treacherous terrain by foot and air, focusing on known climbing routes and the wider region using helicopters and thermal imaging technology. Drones were also deployed to reach inaccessible areas.The large-scale effort was supported by a wide network of agencies including:Land Search and Rescue teams from Southland and OtagoWakatipu Alpine Cliff Rescue, with support from Mt Cook Alpine RescueDunedin Cliff Rescue and Dunedin Surf Lifesaving teamsSearch and rescue dogsSouthern Lakes Helicopters, Heliworks Queenstown and Real NZInspector Scoles acknowledged the significant support received from the Milford Sound community.“While the search has now been paused, we will be reviewing our efforts and looking to see if there is anything further we can do,” he said.Our thoughts remain with the missing tramper’s family at this very difficult time.

A jointly owned council-controlled organisation (CCO) with Gore, Waitaki and Clutha District Councils was the preferred option that Central Otago is going out to public consultation on.Last Thursday, the CODC approved the Southern Water Done Well consultation document, along with the other three councils, and from May 9 to June 6 the public will have its say on it.Mayor Tamah Alley told the meeting that it was a substantial document on the back of the Long Term Plan (LTP), which had an amazing response, “and ideally we’ll have the same types of people submitting on the water plan as well, but I wouldn’t hang my hat on it,” she joked.Councillor Cheryl Laws said it was good that each council involved received the same information, “that’s pretty vital and now how we get our message to the public and avoid all of those myths that are out there that’s the next step.”Cr Sarah Browne said the feedback she was receiving from people was that they wanted council to keep the water services delivery in house as the status quo option.“It’s not that we don’t want to, but we can’t. People think we are giving it away by choice.”Although council was consulting on three options - a jointly owned CCO, a stand alone CCO and an in-house business unit, Cr Martin McPherson said the consultation document was more about educating, “because we don’t have a choice - we have to do this come hell or high water.”Mayor Alley acknowledged there were some challenges coming when people expected council to stay with the status quo, because they just didn't have the resources in house to do the work.Group manager Three Waters Julie Muir told council that from the LTP numbers, it appeared just over 50% of people wanted the status quo, and just under 50% were keen for council to set up a separate group.Council would be holding drop-in sessions from May 9 to June 6 and then the wider council consultation outcomes would be collated and presented back to council to inform water service delivery model decision making.https://lets-talk.codc.govt.nz/southern-water-done-well.

Youth Week is bigger, brighter and better this year in Central as the creativity of the districts youth is being celebrated.Puna Rangatahi (Alexandra and District Youth Trust) youth worker Courtney La’ulu is organising a youth art display at Central Stories Museum and Art Gallery and at the Alexandra Library, and collaborating with others in the community to coordinate more creative fun for youngsters.Courtney said it was her second year in the youth worker job and she was bringing her strength in creative activities to the nationwide awareness week. “I want to show and celebrate the youth in our community and the part they play in it, and give them a forum for their artwork to be on display.“These [pupils] might not have the opportunity to display their artwork outside of the high school, so this will help them to build confidence and celebrate their creativity.”‘A Night at the Museum’ on May 22 (from 5-7pm) will be a special event showcasing the colossal squid exhibition, after dark. There will be a neon art station for youngsters and a night sky photography tutorial for rangitahi in year nine and above. Courtney said the evening event grew out of a brain torm with Central Stories operations manager Paula Stephenson, and she hoped it would be a fun evening, with something for all ages. Youth Week (is a nationwide festival of events organised by young New Zealanders to celebrate the talents, passion and achievements of young people. This year’s theme is Take Our Place – Whai WāhitangaYouth Week recognises the amazing contributions that young people make to their communities throughout New Zealand. The week inspires us to value, support, and affirm the diversity of young people in our society.The Youth Week Art Exhibition runs from May 17 - May 23. A selection of pupils from Dunstan High School in years nine and up will have portfolio and photography works on display. The night sky photography tutorial will have limited places, register by emailing [email protected]. Entry to the night at the museum is by koha (donation). Read more: Giant squid exhibition in Alexandra What’s On: Night at the Museum and Youth Week Art Exhibition.Have a story to share? Contact [email protected]

Buying a house in Central Otago isn’t just a financial decision — it’s a lifestyle one. Whether you're settling in Alexandra, eyeing a section in Cromwell, or upgrading to a lifestyle block near Omakau, purchasing property here comes with its own unique quirks.In a fast-paced and competitive market like ours, it’s more important than ever to get solid legal advice right from the get-go.Get legal advice before you sign anythingEven if it’s “just a conditional offer,” always check in with your lawyer before signing any Agreement for Sale and Purchase.You’d be surprised how many buyers skip this crucial step and get caught out later.If you're buying at auction or making an unconditional offer, it's even more vital — once your name is on the dotted line, you're committed.We’ve seen enough local deals go sideways to know that reviewing the agreement upfront can save you a mountain of stress (and cost) down the line.What conditions should you include?If you're making a conditional offer, your lawyer will help you include smart conditions to protect your interests, such as:Finance approval (especially if you're working with a bank or mortgage broker)A building inspection, to check for hidden problems like dampness or poor workmanshipA LIM report, so you know what the Council knows about the propertyDue diligence, giving you time to review title issues, insurance, zoning or even sun hours!These clauses are your safety net — they give you time to make sure the home fits your needs and doesn't come with any nasty surprises.Understanding the title and what comes with itEvery property in Central Otago comes with its own history — and that includes legal baggage.Our property lawyers will review the record of title and check for:Easements (e.g. shared driveways or accessways across neighbouring land)Land covenants, which can limit things like what you build or even what colour you paint your homeConsent notices, especially common on newer subdivisions, requiring you to follow Council-imposed rulesCross-lease or unit titles, which come with extra documents and legal responsibilitiesIf you’re buying a unit in Cromwell, or considering a home in an older subdivision in Clyde, these details can make or break the deal. We’ll walk you through the fine print so nothing’s left to chance.Using KiwiSaver for your first home? We’ve got you coveredIf you’re a first home buyer (and good on you — it’s a big step), you might be eligible to use your KiwiSaver funds toward your deposit or final settlement.We’ll guide you through the process and liaise with your provider to make sure everything is squared away on time.Avoiding local pitfalls: know what to watch forIt’s not just about ticking boxes — it's about knowing what can go wrong, especially here in Central Otago. We regularly help clients steer clear of issues like:Unconsented building work, which can delay settlement or require expensive fixesBoundary issues (common in older Alexandra properties)Vague or outdated easements, which can lead to future disputes with neighboursDefective cross-leases or incorrect flats plans, which may affect finance and insuranceBy involving your lawyer early, you avoid last-minute headaches and ensure you’re buying what you think you’re buying.Local lawyers who know Central Otago inside outAt Checketts McKay Law, our team has walked thousands of locals through the property buying process. We understand the local Council rules, the quirks of Otago land titles, and even the seasonal pressures of the market.Whether you’re buying:a house in Alexandra close to the Rail Trail,a new build in Clyde,or a rural lifestyle block around Earnscleugh or Chatto Creek,We're here to give you straightforward, friendly legal support that makes the process less stressful and more successful.

This weekly feature showcases the newest listings from Tall Poppy Real Estate, offering you a first look at the latest homes on the market and updated every Thursday.Perfect Central Starter!43A Melmore Terrace, CromwellOur instructions are clear - this home will be sold, so get in quick to appreciate all this home offers - the ultimate blend of location, comfort, and convenience. Just steps from the lakefront, you'll love morning strolls or bike rides along the water's edge, while directly across the street, the brand-new, state-of-the-art community centre is set to become a vibrant hub for locals. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Keeley Anderson and Niki Lord.Brand New Build Among the Vines101 Wooing Tree Avenue, CromwellPositioned in the sought-after Wooing Tree Estate, 101 Wooing Tree offers a newly completed, thoughtfully landscaped home designed to match the estate’s design brief. This brand new, single-level residence features three bedrooms, two fully tiled bathrooms, including a bath in the main bathroom, and a modern open plan living, dining, and kitchen area. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Kate Andrew.Modern Comfort Awaits16 Pollock Street, AlexandraDiscover this stunning modern home, perfectly positioned in an excellent location just steps from the iconic Central Otago Rail Trail and nearby sporting facilities and schools.. Designed with style and functionality in mind, this beautifully presented 3-bedroom property offers comfort and easy living. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Stacey Waldron and Rebecca Ireland.Elevated Elegance15 Aronui RoadDiscover the perfect blend of comfort and style at 15 Aronui Road, nestled in the vibrant community of Alexandra. The home, located on the picturesque Bridge Hill, promises a warm welcome. With its scenic views and beautifully refurbished interior, this property is ideal for families or anyone seeking a serene retreat in a prime location. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Peter Hishon and Dee Labes.Timeless Architectural Gem in Clyde Awaits3 Gye Street, ClydeNestled in iconic Clyde, 3 Gye Street beckons with an array of premium features that define modern living. This architectural masterpiece, built in 2015, offers a unique blend of sophistication, comfort, and lifestyle, making it the perfect retreat for families or retirees. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Peter Hishon and Dee Labes.Want to see more? click here to view all of Tall Poppy’s current listings.

Leadership in Central Otago never wears a suit. It shows up at 6am to warm the kitchen, stands on frosty sidelines, and spends late nights in living-rooms “strategy sessions” to keep households and entire communities moving forward.As our team at The Central App planned this year’s Mother’s Day coverage, we found ourselves swapping stories about the women who helped raise us. These mums balance budgets like seasoned CFOs, refereed sibling disputes with the calm of HR directors, and somehow still had the energy left to check on the neighbour next door.“Mum ran our place like a high-stakes start-up powered by love and zero downtime,” laughs Central App director Vicki McLean. “Listening is her super-power. With teens, being open about both the wins and the wobbles.”Behind every strong mum stands another, often a Nana who steps in when life gets messy, quietly mending the gaps. Vicki is celebrating that multigenerational magic with a “Celebrate You Day” road trip for her mum, Margaret, and her partner’s mum, Sharon.Sharon McKnight and Margaret McLean - Two mums being celebrated this mothers day. “Both lost their own mums a few years ago, so this year we’re bringing them together,” Vicki says. “They belong to a generation whose quiet achievements often went unnoticed. We’re taking them somewhere we know they’ll both love. It's our way of saying thank you for the years of service by making the day truly about them.”Part-time reporter Anna, also a mum of two, agrees that motherhood’s reach spans the ordinary and the epic. “It’s fixing broken bones and broken hearts but it’s also cheering the first fish, the first driver’s licence, the first triumph. Every moment counts.”Dylan with his mum and Central App reporter Anna RobbShare Your StoryThis Mother’s Day, The Central App salutes the mums, step-mums, grandmothers, and mother-figures whose quiet leadership has shaped Central Otago for generations. Whether you’re serving breakfast in bed, calling from overseas, or planning your own “Celebrate You Day,” we’d love to hear about the remarkable women in your life.Send a photo or short story to [email protected] and go in the draw to treat your special person to their own “Celebrate You Day.” Includes a road trip to somewhere we know they'll love.To every unseen CEO keeping the wheels turning, we thank you. May your day bring the recognition and rest you so richly deserve.

At 15, he’s clocked more volunteer hours than most people contribute in a lifetime, starting at the ripe old age of six and showing no signs of slowing yet.Alexandra teenager Taine Ballantyne has already hit the big time in volunteering, contributing a whopping 650 volunteer hours for his community.Asked by his mum, Donna, why he does it, Taine, from a very young age, has always replied: “Because I love helping people, Mum.”From offering to mow elderly widowed neighbours’ lawns and cleaning their spoutings to turning up at the Cromwell Speedway early after a big meet to scrub the barriers and empty the rubbish bins, being kind to others is just in the Ballantyne genes.Mum Donna used to do the local Scout Hall lawns and gardens, Taine, when old enough, joining her with mowing the lawns.He’s also tagged along helping Dad Glenn clean out the local Scout Hall rubbish.A keen family of speedway racers – Taine himself up there in his youth mini stock race car.\Taine in his mini stock race car. Photo: SuppliedHe’s attended almost every working bee at the racetrack during the off-season from May to September, through many a chilly winter weekend. I’m the youngest there by 20 years,” he grins.He’s raced mini stock cars very successfully for two years: “The trophy shelf in my room is getting quite full,” he says – five trophies to be precise, all for participation, Most Outstanding Youth Driver and Riverview Contracting Youth Allrounder.Most special of these was the probably the Daryl Ainsley Memorial meeting and racing as part of the Rees Tour in Christchurch, Blenheim, Dunedin, Invercargill, Nelson, Greymouth and Cromwell.Taine’s always at the forefront during meets, volunteering to help the tow trucks and remove any pranged race cars, helping get them to the pit if he’s not racing himself. “Most weekends I’m at the racetrack.”Taine ready to ride. Photo: SuppliedMuch older brother, Liam, is also a speedway racer and Taine loves nothing more than to help him do a motor change.This love of tinkering with cars has instilled a long-held desire to do his motor mechanic’s apprenticeship.A 1st Alexandra Scout Group Kea at age five, Taine was well used to monthly rubbish collections, climbing up to the town’s famous clock and clearing the Central Otago Rail Trail.As an older Scout and Venturer, Taine’s also helped with Keas and assisted with the local Park Run every Saturday as a timekeeper or marshal.Scout Taine at your service. Photo: Supplied“When our elderly neighbour moved into Ventry Street, she needed help with her garden and lawns, so I said I’d be happy to do it for as long as she’s living here,” Taine says.And if there’s any spare time, Taine played softball during summer and does all his volunteer work after school and in the weekends. “I have to do my homework before I go to school.”A practical bloke, Wood Tech is his favourite subject, and you guessed it, Taine’s right there amongst it in the Dunstan High School Student Volunteer Army, his teachers regularly congratulating him on his selfless community efforts.“We meet once a month and report on what volunteer projects we’ve been working on,” he says.Unsurprisingly, Taine won the school’s Waldron Volunteer Cup in 2022, despite only being in Year 11, clocking 540 volunteer hours from Year 9 until now.The Can Drive at Christmas and Vincent Country Motorcycle Rally at Galloway are all on his repertoire, Taine even camping out at the rally for three days to drive participants to their campsites on the quad bike, sell tickets at the gate, or clean up rubbish.At Easter it’s Taine who erects the town’s large white cross on the hill and takes it down.If there’s a volunteer role needing filled in Central Otago, Taine’s usually the first stop, but it’s not like he can’t say ‘no’: “I just really want to help people,” he says. “People just expect to see me everywhere.”His reward comes in the kind words he receives: “My neighbour I help always says, ‘You’re amazing! You keep doing it.’” Taine says.There’s always nice baking and chocolates come Christmas and a nice cold drink or ice block mowing those lawns in the Central Otago heat.As if he’s not just busy enough, a man has to make a buck as well, especially when he’s competing at speedway meets around the country.Taine works full-time every school holidays at Eden’s Orchard’s Juice Factory, making and bottling the juice, or packing it into boxes.He’s keen to earn his forklift licence to load them onto the trucks.“I do all my volunteer work after that each day,” he says.There’s not much down time and while most parents are nagging at their kids to get off the Xbox, Mum Donna says she’s elated when Taine occasionally says: “Mum, I’m off to my room to play a bit of X-Box with my friends.”Donna couldn’t be more proud: “He’s just amazing, and he always initiates it,” she says. “You can’t say ‘no’ when your teenager asks for a ride to do good.Little Taine. Photo: SuppliedSometimes I get home from the speedway at 11pm and he says, ‘Mum, can you take me back up there early to clean up?’ I don’t think I’ve ever said, ‘no’.Why would you?” Donna says.After all he’s seen it modelled, tagging along on her volunteer duties from a young age.He was right there at primary school too with that giving heart, helping the kids with neurological disorders and learning difficulties, buddying up in particular with one wee boy who was non-verbal.On school athletics day it’s Taine who stays behind to pack up the gear. "Our friends were away for a few days, and they came home to a couple of barrow loads of wood at the door from Taine,” Donna says.It all comes back sooner or later.Taine’s just been accepted for the Spirit of Adventure sailing expedition north of Auckland in July, the local Lions Club donating him the money to get there.“He works his little butt off so it’s well deserved,” Donna says. “He would’ve clocked literally thousands of voluntary hours throughout the whole of his life so far.”Taine shouldn’t have any trouble getting a job. “I think I might eventually move up to Wellington when I’m working but I will carry on my volunteer work,” he says.“I’ll probably do a bit of overtime and work and not get paid for it.”We want to hear about someone who’s made a difference in the community or in your life. Nominate them as our Community Champion of the month

The people, passion, and performance in the Central sporting community was showcased in the 2025 Central Otago Sports Awards in Wānaka on Thursday (May 8).Major prizes went to several locals including kayak cross Olympian and former Dunstan High School pupil Finn Butcher, who won sportsman of the year and the supreme prize - the Bruce Grant Memorial Trophy. Ice swimmer and member of the Alexandra Swimming Club Heidi Winter was awarded the junior sportswomen of the year. She was the first Frozen Fern to win an overall gold medal at the World Ice Swimming Championships in Molveno, Italy in January.Heidi WInter. PHOTO: Image Central Shane Norton won the senior spirit of Central Otago award for his contribution to football.Shane Norton. PHOTO: Image Central Alan Hamilton (Bones) was inducted into the hall of fame, for decades of coaching excellence in athletics, shaping the futures of countless Central Otago athletes.Finn’s accolades were accepted on his behalf by his father, Dale, who shared his family’s strong connection and gratitude to the Central Otago, and wider Otago, sporting community for fuelling his son’s success. Sport Central Sport and Active Recreation Advisor Jo Knight said the judges had an incredibly tough job this year, which reflects the calibre of talent in Central Otago.“The finalists seem to raise the bar every year. All categories were hotly contested, with so many national and international champions and multiple athletes breaking local, international and world records.” The Central Otago Sports Awards are always a celebration of achievement, but this year, more than ever, it was about people, Jo said.  “Many of our winners spoke with genuine gratitude for the support they’ve received from the wider Central Otago sporting community — a reflection of just how important that foundation is in helping athletes thrive."As Dale Butcher said — the Central Otago recipe for growing great athletes is a winning one.” Alongside Bones another hall of fame recipient was Jenny Ferguson, for her long-standing impact on netball as both a player and internationally appointed physiotherapist. Sport Central congratulated all award winners, nominees, and those who continue to give their time, energy, and passion to sport in Central Otago.List of winners:Sportswoman of the Year: Zoi Sadowski-Synnott (Snowboard Big Air & Slopestyle) Sportsman of the Year: Finn Butcher (Kayak Cross) Junior Sportsman of the Year: Luke Harrold (Freeski Halfpipe) Junior Sportswoman of the Year: Heidi Winter (Ice Swimming) Team of the Year: Sky City Stampede (Ice Hockey) Coach of the Year: Nils Coberger (Alpine Ski Racing) Para Athlete of the Year: Adam Hall (Skiing) Junior Spirit of Central Otago Award: Ryan Enoka (Athletics, Karate & Rugby) Senior Spirit of Central Otago Award: Shane Norton (Football) Official of the Year: Adam Nagy (Ice Hockey) John Fitzharris Trophy for Services to Sport: Flick Wallace (Snow Sports) Supreme Award - Bruce Grant Memorial Trophy: Finn ButcherHave a story to share?Contact [email protected]

First home owners in Cromwell will be given first dibs for the next round of sections in the Gair Avenue subdivision.More affordable options such as semi-detached and terraced housing on smaller building footprints would help fill a much needed gap in the housing market.Cromwell Community Board Chair Anna Harrison said the board was really keen to lead the way in providing a range of housing types, “while taking care to meet our community expectations to ensure we create a liveable community with greenways and open spaces.”She said it was exciting to see sections coming onto the market as they explored the options for bringing the plan to life.The Central Otago District Council (CODC) was looking at selling the balance of the land to a developer for a comprehensive housing project, as it explored all available options to delivery housing solutions.Those included investigating the potential for group homes companies and other alternative housing models such as Offsite Manufacturing (OSM) that could contribute to meeting the community’s needs.Nine sections would be up for sale in Stage 1, initially for a limited timeframe, to fulfil the Cromwell Masterplan objectives to deliver a range of housing types. Bulk earthworks began in March and were expected to be completed in mid-June, with civil infrastructure scheduled to begin during May and finished around October 2025.CODC property and facilities manager Garreth Robinson said this was good time to be looking at development options.“It’s a good feeling to be at this point, that work is underway and that eventually there will be about 110 new houses in all, to cater for the projected growth in Cromwell.”In 2022, the community board approved the five-stage approach for developing the remaining block of council-owned land, and a year later approved $2,093,410 to fund development of stage 1A and 1B - the remainder of the 5.2-hectare block was ready for the development of the next four stages. 

The public is invited to spend some time exploring Matakanui Station - winners of the National Farm Environmental awards for Otago, this Wednesday.Owners Andrew and Tracy Paterson have opened up their farm for a field day to share their story on how they have transformed the land over the years.Organised by the New Zealand Environment Trust, the 5300ha station has been in the family since 1958, and the couple took it over in 2014, having worked there since the turn of the century.As well as celebrating their success, the open day was on opportunity for people to engage with industry representatives and the farming community.Before the event kicked off with free lunch at 12:30pm, people were invited to spend the morning at the Orkney (Thomsons) wetland, 15 minutes drives from Matakanui Station (11-1pm).Two weeks later on May 27, Minister for Biosecurity and Food Safety Andrew Hoggard (also the Associate Minister of Agriculture), will be special guest at the one year anniversary celebration of the wetland project - hosted by Waiora Manuherekia.The Patersons have 6.3ha of wetlands restored and partially planted on their property as well, and an additional 24ha set for protection this year. In collaboration with their neighbour, they were protecting 132ha of alpine totara forest under a QEII Trust covenant, recognising its significance as the largest known stand of its kind in Central Otago. Tracy said the forest was regenerating, even as they continued to farm, and some of the trees were three to five metres tall, with new ones coming through as well.The public will get to see the significant investment in irrigation, fencing and pasture development on the property as part of the open day.For more information on Wednesday’s open day contact Camille McAtamney at [email protected] a story to share? Contact [email protected]

Police can now release the name of the man who died in a crash on Cromwell-Clyde Road in Central Otago on 11 March.He was 26-year-old Mitchell Douglas McLeary, of Cromwell.Police extend our condolences to his loved ones.Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash remain under investigation.

Search efforts for a missing tramper in Milford Sound are set to resume today.After weather prevented search teams continuing yesterday, staff spent the day planning for further search efforts, beginning today.Police are maintaining a positive outlook as search efforts continue.Approximately 40 staff and volunteers are working in the Milford Sound area.There is a large-scale air and ground search effort planned for the coming days, and we would like to acknowledge everybody assisting with the search.Land Search and Rescue teams from across the southern region are working with a Dunedin-based LandSAR search dog, members of the Wakatipu Alpine Cliff Rescue team, the Dunedin LandSAR Cliff Rescue team and the Otago Surf Life Saving Club and the Southland Amateur Radio Club.Our search efforts continue to be greatly supported by Southern Lakes Helicopters, Heliworks Queenstown and Real NZ.

Heavy Rain Warning lifted for The headwaters of the Otago Lakes and Rivers: Rain is easing, and the Warning is now lifted.A strong wind watch is in place for most of Otago, including Central until 1am Friday morning.An orange heavy rain warning is in effect for the headwaters of the Otago Lakes and Rivers from 4pm today to 1am Friday, with flooding, slips and road closures possible.A strong wind watch has been issued for Queenstown Lakes, Central Otago and Clutha west of Tapanui, running from 9am to 9pm Thursday. North-westerly winds may approach severe gale in exposed areas, and there's a moderate chance this could be upgraded to a warning.Next seven days forecast- source Metservice.Weather shifts like these are typical for this time of year and with a variety of conditions ahead.Stay safe, and don’t forget to secure any outdoor items then enjoy the diverse week of weather Central Otago has in store.You can stay updated in your area by visiting The Central App Weather.

A former journalist and broadcaster has spent four years uncovering the past of the Maniototo pioneers, and discovered stories of intrigue, sacrifice, tragedy and remarkable achievement.Shaun Brown started out investigating his wife Felicity’s great grandfather, Silas Hore who came to Maniototo in 1869.“I discovered he was just one of a dozen siblings and cousins who’d left tin-mining in Cornwall for the Central Otago gold rushes. “I was fascinated by the scale of this exodus, its impact on the family members left behind and, above all, the extraordinary outcomes achieved by those who arrived in New Zealand.”Sydney-based Shaun said he knew if he didn't tell these stories no one else would.He researched online, accessing extensive archives in New Zealand and Cornwall, and spent time in both countries in the past year.“We knew Felicity’s great grandfather had owned a store in Waipiata but we had no idea his siblings and cousins had also travelled to Maniototo and that many of them had stayed to build farming dynasties there.“There must be hundreds of descendants of those Hore families still living in Maniototo, some of them unaware of their links to the extraordinary Hore diaspora.Shaun said he had already met Hore descendants who’ve generously helped with information and photographs and he expected to meet many more at the upcoming book launch.The book’s characters come from two large Cornish tin-mining families, closely related and both bearing the surname Hore, whose ancestors, for at least 300 years, had worked the tin on the isolated moor they called home.In the 1860s, 14 offspring from both families answered the call of the goldrush, and came to Otago, ending up on the Hogburn (Naseby), Kyeburn and Hamiltons goldfields.The subsequent generations married into other founding families, Inder, Howell and Tregonning, and together they formed the cornerstone of early Maniototo settlement.Through their experiences, the book charts the transition from mining camps to permanent settlements built around farming.Naseby characters in 1870. PHOTO: Supplied “I often reflect on how dramatically the lives of these pioneers and their descendants were transformed by their bold gamble to chase the gold. How could a young man labouring in the Cornish clay pits ever envisage that he would one day be a landowner and successful businessman and that his son would create a chain of jewellery stores that has become the largest in Australasia?“And then there’s the two cousins, one digging clay the other working tin, who couldn’t possibly imagine the status two of their descendants would acquire when they became All Blacks.“But it’s not just these lofty examples that testify to the successful future these pioneers created for their descendants. Throughout Otago and across the nation thousands of New Zealanders can trace their relative prosperity back to the courage and tenacity of these forebears.“I hope my book helps them recognise and value the gift their ancestors gave them.”Local historian Jim Sullivan will present a questions and answer session with Shaun on Sunday May 11, at Waipiata Hotel at 2pm Learn more here: The Hore Alchemists - From Cornish tin to Maniototo Gold" by Shaun Brown book releaseThe cover of the new book, which includes 90 photographs and illustrations from the Maniototo's early days. PHOTO: Supplied Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Funding applications are underway for the relocation of the Cromwell Museum, so it can be moved to its new premises in the Memorial Hall and Events Centre in 2026.The Cromwell Community Board heard from project manager - property Phil Quinn this week about where the museum relocation was at.When council approved the design of the new $45.8 million facility in 2023, there was also $1.6 million budgeted for the fitout of the museum internally.The design incorporated a designated wing for the museum with specific environmental control systems, aimed at enhancing the overall functionality and preservation capabilities of the museum facility. To enhance the Cromwell Museum, staff have been working with external funders to gain funding for a museum fit out to complement the design of the new hall and to showcase the Cromwell Museum collection. The old fit out and display of the Cromwell Museum would be disposed of either through auction or donations. With the Cromwell Memorial Hall base build well underway and on track for completion in 2026, the project team, incorporating Story Inc as design consultants, has been working with the museum on its new space.A draft concept design was completed towards the end of 2024 with a primary output of estimated costs to inform the funding applications. Funding applications were underway with Central Lakes Trust (CLT) granting $1.1 million, Lotteries Heritage $500,000, and discussions underway with Otago Community Trust.The Cromwell museum was currently based in the mall and ran on an operating model of 2800 volunteer hours a year, also employing a part-time director.The museum trust hoped that they could fund a full time director position for the museum, and had a big job ahead in the next 18 months to pack up the collection and move.New content development for each of the displays also needed to be organised before the move.The CCB decided at the meeting this week to consider leasing the café, cinema and catering kitchen in the new hall and events centre to commercial operators.Council staff and community board members talked about the potential to maximise the hours of operation to allow the facility to serve the community in the best possible way. The café space was used as an example of how the business could not only be open during the daytime but also into the evening.Have a story to share? Contact [email protected]

A giant squid and its story is on show in Central Otago for the next month; the specimen is part of a touring exhibition from Te Papa.The exhibition is interactive and features specimens including: an actual lens from a colossal squid’s eye, a section of tentacle from these massive creatures, a complete tiny squid—the miniature version of its colossal relative and touchable rotating models of a squid’s tentacle hook and the colossal squid’s formidable beak.Specimen jars are lit up for visitors to closely inspect the contents. PHOTO: The Central AppThere have only ever been four complete giant squid discovered, it is said to be one of the ocean’s greatest mysteries. The first scientifically documented giant squid was in 1925 from remains found in a sperm whale’s stomach.Puna Rangitahi youth worker Courtney La’ulu said the squid was part of the exciting youth week activities coming up in the third week of May.Central Stories Museum and Art Gallery operations manager Paula Stephenson said she hoped the exhibition generated a lot of interest and she expected numbers through the door to pick up as the week went on.Learn more about Te Papa’s collection of giant squid here. Scientists with the colossal squid, 2008. PHOTO: Te PapaAn examination of one of Te Papa’s giant squid was webcast, viewed live by more than 800,000 people from over 180 countries, and can still be viewed on YouTube: Science Live: Colossal Squid.Stay tuned for more information about Youth Week (May 17 - 23) coming soon. Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Former Dunstan High School pupil and cricketer Reuben Love had the best time in India with a New Zealand team under the tutelage of former Black Cap Jacob Oram.He played eight matches, did sightseeing and enjoyed all the diverse cultural experiences during his two week long trip.Mum Paula Love said Reuben had worked determinedly at his job at Olivers, saving hard to fund the cricket tour.Reuben told The Central App it took close to three months of working to squirrel away the $8.5K he needed for the tour.“I worked from the end of exams right up until [university] started.”Reuben said the cricket went pretty well.“We won two out of eight games, we were playing some high calibre teams.”It took him a week to get used to the new environment, and the conditions were vastly different to home.“The smog in Delhi, it was difficult to breathe… I got Delhi belly for one day and missed one game of cricket.”Reuben said batting in 45 degrees Celsius was something else entirely.Reuben in action in India. PHOTO: Supplied Another highlight was attending an Indian Premier League (IPL) game, the Delhi Capitals versus Rajasthan Royals. “The atmosphere was off the charts. People were going ballistic. The crowd was about 30-40 thousand, but it was packed so tight it felt like a hundred thousand really.”Reuben found out about the opportunity to join the touring team via an online advertisement.He wasn’t sure it was legitimate initially, but got his uncle to check with Jacob Oram directly, as the pair used to play cricket together.Reuben said he learned a lot from the coaches about being determined in different conditions, along with improving mental strength and how to beat the heat, keep hydration up and recover well.Fifteen young men and women were a part of the KiwiCaps cricket tour, and along with Jacob Oram two other coaches helped out during the trip, Georgia Atkinson (Central Hinds) and Chris Sharrock (Cricket Whanganui).The KiwiCaps contingent. PHOTO: Supplied Reuben is studying his first year of nutrition at the University of Canterbury, living in a hall of residence and playing cricket for a Sumner division one club team.Jacob Oram, who played 33 tests, 160 one day internationals (ODIs), and 36 Twenty20s (T20s) has led similar cricket tours for young players for several years, together with company Take me to the World. Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]