Many Central Otago businesses have websites that cover the essentials and that’s a great foundation.But there’s real opportunity in taking it a step further. With a few thoughtful tweaks, your website can become a tool that reflects everything you’ve built: your values, your story, your strengths.It doesn’t need to be complicated. A well-crafted website can bring in new customers, support the ones you already have, and free up your time so you can focus on what you do best.Tell your story, your wayYour business is more than just your logo and a list of services. People want to know the story behind it, why you started, who’s involved, and what makes your business tick. You don’t have to be poetic, just be real. It helps people connect and trust you.Make it easy to get in touchIf someone’s on your website, chances are they’re looking to take the next step, call, visit, book, or buy. Make your contact details easy to find, and be clear about how people can get in touch or what to expect when they do.Show what you do, even if you don’t sell onlineEven if your business isn’t e-commerce, people still want to see what you offer.Whether it’s services, events, accommodation, or handmade products, make sure there’s a clear page (with good photos) that shows what people can expect.If you’re a hairdresser, show your cuts. If you’re a vineyard, show your bottles and tastings. It’s not about selling online it’s about clarity and trust.Use real photos where you canA few well-taken photos of your space, your team, or your work go a long way.You don’t need a full photoshoot just something that feels authentic and gives people a feel for your business. Stock photos tend to feel generic and don’t show your uniqueness.Keep your info up to dateIf your last update was pre-COVID, it’s time.You don’t have to change your website every week, but check it a couple of times a year.Are your hours still right? Do you still offer that service? Has your team changed?Even small updates keep things fresh and show that you’re paying attention.Think about local searchA few simple tweaks to your website can help people find you more easily on Google especially when they’re searching “Clyde bike hire” or “best coffee in Alexandra.”Make sure your location is clear, your services are listed in plain language, and you’ve linked to your Google Business Profile.Make it mobile-friendlyMost people will look you up on their phone often while out and about.If your site’s hard to read or navigate on a small screen, they’ll probably give up and try someone else. Test it on your own phone and see how it feels.Encourage next stepsYour website should give people a clear next move. That might be booking a table, making an enquiry, joining a newsletter, or just following you on social media.Make it obvious what to do, and don’t assume people will go hunting for it.Your website doesn’t have to win awards. But it should work for you not just sit there.Final thoughtsA tidy, useful, and up-to-date site builds trust, brings in business, and shows you care about your customer experience, even before they walk through the door.If you’re not sure where to start, tidy up the basics. If you’re ready to go further, bring in someone local who gets it. You don’t need a huge budget just a bit of intention.

We’re now in July, just passed the midpoint of the year, and a critical juncture for any business leader. The pace may be fast, but this is your chance to step back, zoom out, and strategically evaluate where your business stands and where it’s headed.At this point in the year, too many businesses simply "keep going" without asking the important questions. But if you want to finish strong, now is the time to reassess your strategy, realign your marketing, and make targeted shifts to ensure you’re on track to achieve your goals or adjust them if needed.Start by carving out time away from the daily grind. Seriously. Jump off this page, make time in your calendar and come back to answer these questions.Use this moment to reflect not just on performance, but on direction.1. Reconnect with your vision and market positionAre you still aligned with your original purpose or has the market shifted beneath you?Have your customer’s needs evolved ? Have you?Are you still solving a meaningful problem, or is it time to reposition?This is a prime opportunity to assess your brand relevance. If your value proposition feels generic or vague, it's time to refine it. Brands that win are brands that adapt without losing clarity or consistency.2. Re-evaluate your business model and marketing strategyYour business strategy and marketing must work hand-in-hand. Ask yourself:What’s driving revenue? What’s draining resources?Are your products or services delivering results and demand?Is your marketing attracting the right audience or any audience at all?Audit your funnel from first touchpoint to sale. Which messages are resonating? What content is converting? Are your campaigns clear on value, or simply adding noise?Consider where your highest-margin customers are coming from and double down. Pause vanity tactics that don’t move the needle.3. Cash Flow: Beyond the balance sheetDon’t wait until year-end to assess cash flow mid-year is your chance to get ahead.Revenue might look healthy, but it’s profit and timing that tell the real story.Are payments arriving when you need them?Are you overly reliant on a few clients?Are you spending in line with your priorities?This is the time to segment your cash into tax, operating expenses, owner’s pay, and reinvestment, so you're not making reactive decisions.Remember: cash flow isn’t just about survival; it funds your ability to grow, hire, and market in the second half of the year.4. Marketing ROI: Time for brutal clarityMarketing spend should never be “set and forget.” Do a hard audit:Is your message relevant to today’s market needs?Where is your competition showing up that you’re not?If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it. Create KPIs that matter cost per lead, conversion rate, customer lifetime value and review them monthly, not just mid-year.Don’t just look at outputs (content volume, ad spend). Focus on outcomes. Are you building trust? Awareness? Leads? Sales?5. Tax & compliance: Get ahead of the gameNow’s the time to sync with your accountant or financial advisor. Check in on your projections, update your estimated payments, and review any recent regulatory changes that could impact you.If your tax situation surprises you in December, that’s a strategic failure not just a finance one. Good marketing and tax planning go hand in hand because strong margins mean you can reinvest.6. Trim the fat: Cut waste, keep valueRun an expense analysis. Not just to save money but to sharpen your focus.What subscriptions or software tools aren’t earning their keep?Are there manual processes that could be automated?Is there a mismatch between your overhead and your growth stage?Lean doesn't mean stingy, it means strategic. Free up resources to reinvest in what works: your team, your clients, and your marketing momentum.7.Check in with your team: Realign, reenergiseYour people are the engine behind your strategy, so take time to check in with them, too.A mid-year review isn’t just about metrics and margins; it’s about morale, clarity, and cohesion.Ask your team what’s working, what’s not, and where they feel blocked or underutilised.Are they clear on the company’s direction?Do they understand how their role contributes to the bigger picture?Small course corrections now. Whether it’s better communication, streamlined workflows, or recognition of effort can create massive gains in performance, culture, and retention.Strong teams build strong businesses, and investing in those relationships mid-year can unlock the energy you need to finish the year strong.8. Redefine success and recommit to itNow that you've assessed where you are, reset your targets:Which goals still matter?Which should be redefined based on what you now know?Where can you accelerate and where do you need to pivot?Write down no more than three strategic shifts you’ll make in the next 90 days. Assign owners. Set deadlines. Make accountability visible.9. Bonus: Market the shiftWhen you recalibrate your business, tell your audience.Share your renewed vision, refreshed offerings, or bold goals with your customers and followers. Marketing is storytelling, and change is one of the most powerful stories you can tell.Use this moment to re-engage your audience and inspire confidence. Momentum is magnetic.Final thoughtsThis mid-year review is more than a checklist. It’s your leadership moment. Your opportunity to stop reacting and start leading with clarity and purpose.Take the time. Ask the hard questions. Make the right adjustments.Because the second half of the year won’t wait and neither will your goals.

In a world where digital is everywhere, it’s easy to forget how powerful traditional marketing can still be. But when you combine both print, posters, local events and digital tools like websites, email, and social media, you can create a much stronger connection with your customers.Here are five practical ways to blend old-school and online marketing to give your customers a better, more personalised experience.1. Use online insights to make conversations warmerOld-fashioned cold calling or random email blasts don’t work like they used to. But if you look at who’s visiting your website, what emails they’re opening, or which products they’re searching for you can see who’s genuinely interested.Even a basic tool like Google Analytics or your email marketing stats can show:Which pages people are readingWhich products/services they’re most interested inIf someone’s clicked a link more than onceFrom there, you can reach out with a message that’s actually relevant not random.Tip: If you have a CRM (like Hubspot or Mailchimp), make sure it’s tracking who’s doing what, so you can follow up meaningfully.2. Pair print with smart targetingPrint still works especially in smaller communities like ours. People pick up flyers and notice something in the mailbox more than another email in their inbox.But print works best when it’s not done blindly. For example:Run a short flyer campaign to the people who’ve recently clicked on your websiteInclude QR codes that take them to a specific page (like a promo, video or booking form)Use simple design with a clear message and one action you want people to take3. Make the most of events by planning around themLocal events are perfect for face-to-face brand building. But instead of just showing up with a banner, think of the full customer journey:Before the event: Send an email or post on social media to let people know you’ll be thereDuring: Offer a competition, demo or chat that adds valueAfter: Follow up with a personalised email, discount, or invitation to visit in-store or online4. Match posters & billboards with online targetingGot a billboard or poster around town? You can now use tech to help you follow up with the people who’ve seen it.You could even add a short web address or QR code to your poster so people can visit a special landing page or run a special deal just for locals who "saw the sign"5. Use direct mail to reach people who ignore emailsIf a customer has gone quiet (not opening emails or visiting your site) a well-timed postcard, handwritten note, or even a small printed gift can get their attention again.To make it count:Only send mail to people who have interacted with you before (so it's not completely cold)Keep it short, friendly, and personalGive them a reason to scan a code, redeem a voucher, or reach outTip: Use direct mail as a surprise “extra” in your customer journey, it’s great for thank-yous, anniversaries, or special offers.Final thoughtBlending traditional and digital marketing isn’t about doing more, it’s about doing it smarter. A little bit of personalisation based on who your customers are and where they’re at can make your efforts go much further.So whether you’re running a local tourism business, café, trade service, or online store, consider how print, digital, and personal touches can work together to grow your brand in Central Otago.

Let’s face it running a business in isn’t for the faint-hearted. Whether you’re juggling emails, managing bookings, chasing invoices, or trying to post on social media before dinner, there’s always more to do than hours in the day.That’s where automation can be a real game changer.And no, we’re not talking about robots taking over your shop or AI running the show while you retire to a vineyard. We’re talking about small, smart tools that can take care of the boring, repetitive stuff, so you can spend more time on what actually matters: your customers, your team, and the reason you got into business in the first place.So, what is automation?At its simplest, automation means using software or systems to do tasks for you. Without needing to lift a finger each time.Things like:Automatically sending out appointment remindersPosting to Facebook or Instagram on a scheduleFollowing up with customers after a purchaseKeeping your stock or bookings up to dateIt doesn’t have to be flashy or expensive. In fact, it can start with tools you probably already use.Step 1: Spot the bottlenecksStart by asking yourself (or your team): “What’s something we do over and over again that eats up time?”Maybe it’s replying to the same questions, chasing late payments, or even copying data from one system to another.Write those tasks down. If something is boring, repetitive, and doesn’t require much thinking, there’s a good chance you can automate it.Step 2: Start smallThe best automation projects are the ones that feel like a relief, not a headache.Here are a few simple wins to start with:Bookings & appointmentsUse tools like Calendly, Acuity, or even your Google Calendar with built-in booking forms. Clients can pick a time, and they’ll get auto-reminders, no back-and-forth required.Email newslettersPlatforms like Mailchimp or Flodesk let you write once and send automatically, great for monthly updates, promotions, or welcome emails.Invoicing & paymentsXero or Stripe can help automate invoicing, payment reminders, and even recurring billing.Social media schedulingTools like Meta business suite or Later let you plan posts in advance so you’re not scrambling every morning for a caption.You could also try looking at your customer lifecycle the steps people go through from first hearing about you to becoming regulars. Here are a few spots where automation can help:Awareness: Schedule social posts or set up simple analyticsFirst interaction: Use auto-replies or welcome emailsPurchase: Set up online booking or invoice automationAfter purchase: Send follow-ups, review requests, or loyalty rewardsRepeat & referral: Automate special offers or referral trackingEven one small change in the right place can make a big difference.Step 3: Keep it personalOne of the biggest worries with automation is losing the personal touch. But used wisely, it can actually free you up to connect more with customers, not less.For example:Automate your quote follow-ups so you don’t forgetUse email templates with a few personal tweaksSend birthday discounts or “we miss you” emails to past customersThe goal isn’t to remove the human, it’s to support it.Step 5: Ask for help if you need itWhether you’re in retail, hospitality, real estate, or running a solo operation, you don’t have to figure this out alone. There are people around who can help from your bookkeeper to your local digital expert.Even just a one-hour session with someone who “gets” automation can save you hours every week.Final thought: Time is money, but energy matters tooHere in Central Otago, life moves a little differently. We value our community, our environment, and our time. So if a bit of smart automation can help you spend less time on admin and more time enjoying what matters, why not give it a go?Start small. Pick one thing. Try it.Before you know it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

Each week, Mayor Tamah Alley shares a one-minute snapshot of the week that was, highlighting key decisions, updates, and the issues her team is tackling on your behalf.Democracy works best when your voice is heard. Tap into Let's Talk for ways to connect and be heard, from surveys and drop-in sessions to writing directly to Mayor Tamah Alley. She’s committed to making sure your voice is part of the decision-making process. Click here to learn more.

More than 100 people attended a Business After Five (BA5) meeting in Cromwell on Thursday night, where Santana Minerals spoke about the gold mining project ready for fast tracking.A panel of experts from Santana spoke at the meeting, from engineers to environmental managers. The company has been transparent in the community over the last year - including holding drop in public meetings from Tarras to Roxburgh. A Bendigo vineyard owner raised concerns about leakage and its potential to dent tourism. Many believe Central Otago’s riches have long been built on visitors, wine and fruit.The region’s natural beauty, clean air and water have underpinned an economy that continues to grow with no shortage of jobs."While open-cast mining may bring significant financial gains, we must equally weigh its impacts and risks for Otago’s people, its established industries and the natural environment".Santana Minerals was continuing to boost up 'drop in' meetings over the coming weeks, and have made significant promises to the community, adding they were thinking with the end in sight, and ensuring the mine was left for the better of the community years after they finished.The meeting heard there were over 800 people interested in working there, with at least 300 jobs on offer once it opened.Santana Minerals chief executive Damien Spring addresses the BA5 meeting in Cromwell on Thursday. Photo:The Central AppMeanwhile, Sustainable Tarras was organising public meetings of its own, in both Wanaka and Dunedin next week, with a panel of experts - not yet identified.Sustainable Tarras Inc chair Suze Keith said the panel will outline what is known about plans for the gold mine, take audience questions, and discuss what the community can do.“From the information released so far, there are numerous very worrying issues,” she said.“These include the size and scale of the mine right in the heart of an Outstanding Natural Landscape, the massive tailings dam which will hold 10,000 Olympic swimming pools of toxic waste, and the extensive use and storage of large quantities of cyanide just upstream of the Clutha River.“And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.”Santana Minerals said it was aware of the public meetings through posts on social media but hasn't been asked to attend or speak at the events.Engagement manager Vicki Blakeborough said they were still working towards its application for consents through the fast-track process.Sustainable Tarras believed Santana had not been “open and transparent with concerned locals”.“They’re not providing us information we’re reasonably asking for, and which we know they have got,” Suze said.The company has said while the project would be assessed under the fast-track approval process - which aims to streamline projects of national significance - there was mandated legislation and standards would need to be met, including the Resource Management Act and associated regulations and national policy statements.Suze said the mine is “getting attention from people who are concerned that the fast-track process is being used inappropriately for a project which is not about public infrastructure or community benefit, but rather is solely about extraction of resources and maximising shareholder profits, most of which will go offshore”.“This mine would become the largest single earthworks in Otago since the Clyde Dam could be approved without the general public having any right of input into the proposal,” she said.People interested in attending the meeting in Wānaka can register to find out more here. www.bit.ly/notmine2025.Have a story to share? Contact [email protected]

There’s a new way to find a sounding board, or someone to be in your corner to help grow new Central businesses. Central Otago District Council, Business South and Welcoming Communities has launched a new business mentorship programme for newcomers.Two newcomers will be selected for a free year from a business mentor, and online expressions of interest need to be in by June 30. Visit the online form here. LINK: www.codc.govt.nz/newcomerWelcoming Communities officer Heather Harries said it was a fantastic opportunity for a newcomer.“It [is] a huge help to have that one-to-one support as it can be quite isolating setting up a business as a sole trader.”The criteria to apply are; you need to have lived in Central for less than six years and you must have a desire to develop leadership and/or business skills within the workplace. You do not need to be a business owner. Mentoring is a supported system where one person shares their skills, knowledge and experience to assist others to grow and develop.  The mentors will be from Business Mentors New Zealand, an independent not for profit organisation who have more than 1,800 mentors nationally. The newcomer scholarship to the Business South leadership academy which has been offered for the past three years is not going to be offered in 2025. For more information contact [email protected] Read more: Central Home: French flair at Omakau's Muddy Creek cafeRead more: New to Central?Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]  

An important stage of the Kāmoanahaehae - Riverside Park development in downtown Alexandra is being moved forward to ensure better stability of the site.The Vincent Community Board yesterday heard from parks and recreation manager Gordon Bailey, who said the ramp from the edge of the riverbank to a floating jetty, would need to be completed in Stage One, at a cost of $400,000.The ramp was intended to be the main feature of the design and allowed people to access right down to the water’s edge. In his report, he said the design of the ramp itself, based on Geotech requirements, had been challenging to ensure it met required building standards, was flood resistant, looked good and was functional. A wooden design had been agreed on which would see 9m poles driven into the ground to support it. “This option provides least disturbance to the bank and any potential archaeological items. The poles will need to be precisely placed then driven into the ground to anchor the ramp.”But until that phase was completed, contractors were unable to finish and concrete the plaza area in Stage One as vibrations would crack it.As a result, staff recommended bringing forward the start of the work for Stage Two - which included the ramp and gabion baskets to create a level area for the mana whenua artwork, associated balustrade and lookout.The VCB agreed to fund the $400,000 through its Reserves Contribution Fund.“If we are going to do it, we need to do it properly,” Gordon said.In the 2021 – 31 Long Term Plan council allocated $650,000 over three years for the construction of the Kāmoanahaehae - Riverside Park, and additional funding of $723,848 was also received from Otago Community Trust ($100,000), Central Lakes Trust ($250,000), Lottery Environmental and Heritage Fund ($48,848), and MBIE TiF funding ($325,000).Construction began in September 2024 on Stage 1 which included several additional permissions, underground work and investigations required for archaeological authority. Additional work was undertaken by the Otago Regional Council in the removal of the riverbank trees from the traffic bridge to Tarbert Street.The Wairoa Manuherekia Trust provided $120,000 for the removal of additional willow trees from the Manuherekia riverbank and an off-road trail was currently linking the park to the Linger and Die and onto the Otago Central Rail Trail.

The new Southern Lakes Health Trust report aligns with the component of the Regional Deal proposal that Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes district councils are partners of.Mayor Tamah Alley was on the steering committee of the trust, which was exploring partnerships with the private sector to invest in services and infrastructure to benefit the region.The report https://www.southernlakeshealthtrust.nz/health-project/ was sent to Minister of Health Hon Simeon Brown in February 2025, and was a collaborative effort, led by Joseph Mooney, MP for Southland, involving Health New Zealand, CODC, QLDC, rural health providers, iwi, including kaupapa Māori health providers, and the community.“We have a clear objective; to expedite planning and investment in health services and infrastructure in Otago Central Lakes,” Joseph said.The group was now waiting on feedback and director from the Minister on the report, and how that would help inform work on a health assessment for the area.“70 per cent of New Zealanders who live two or more hours from a hospital live in Otago Central Lakes. Our proposal will bring healthcare closer to our residents and help to reduce demand on our regions’ base hospitals in Dunedin and Invercargill,” Mayor Alley said.The trust’s approach would lead to a far more streamlined and effective healthcare for the rapidly growing population, which was currently at 155,596 and expected to double by 2054.The report offered a practical way forward: partnering with private hospitals, clinics and investors already in the planning process or building in the Southern Lakes area. By working together, they could include publicly-funded health services in private infrastructure projects; to bring more care close to home, without waiting years for new public builds. This collaborative approach would ease pressure on overstretched services and deliver lasting benefits for the entire region.The report warned the Minister about creating a two-tier health system, where services were only close to home for those who could afford it, while everyone else would still have to drive hours for care.With the Minister’s support, a working group would be established to work with Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora to progress the proposed solutions. Community engagement and consultation would follow to ensure the healthcare needs of everyone in the Southern Lakes Region.The report proposed a regional model of care delivered across three key locations: Queenstown, Wānaka, and Central Otago, with six early-stage public-private partnerships already identified. These projects are ready for collaboration:Southern Lakes Public Hospital (location to be determined). A proposed privately financed facility with full public hospital services and future capacity to become a regional hospital. Lakeview Te Taumata Clinic (Queenstown). A private surgical hospital expected to open in 2027, with opportunities for maternity care and workforce development.Integrated Care Hub (Wānaka). A planned day surgery with potential space for publicly funded after-hours services.Wānaka Health Precinct. A private surgical hospital designed with capacity to integrate public services.Aged Care Facilities (Clyde) Currently under construction, with potential to expand into a full suite of publicly funded services for older people in Central Otago. Central Otago: Securing land and investors for future public health infrastructure, based on the outcomes of other projectsThe trust was also seeking $2 million in funding to complete the groundwork for:Community consultationClinical design and planning processesTechnical assessments and detailed business cases that Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora can work with.And there are other ways to get involved:They’re exploring innovative mobile modular units that can be used as consultation rooms, clinics, or staff accommodation.The Strategic Report can be viewed at: https://www.southernlakeshealthtrust.nz/health-project/

Business South has announced a new partnership with Icehouse, giving Otago based businesses easier access to premium business growth programmes designed to accelerate success for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).The collaboration means local business owners and their teams will now be able to take part in Icehouse’s specialised training, mentoring, and coaching workshops, without having to travel far.“We’re thrilled to be partnering with Business South to bring premium Icehouse programmes and workshops,” says Icehouse CEO Olivia Blaylock. “Growing capability within a business is vital for growth in an ever-changing marketplace.”The move has already been welcomed by local business owners.“For me as a business owner, trying to train my team to be business minded, there’s no better option than the Icehouse in New Zealand,” said Justin McEntyre from Dunedin based passive fire protection company Contego.“We’ve invested in Icehouse training for seven of our team, including myself, and we’ve certainly seen the returns. It’s allowed us to take the business to the next level.”Since launching in 2001, Icehouse has helped more than 4,000 Kiwi businesses sharpen their strategy, leadership, and operational performance.More details about the programmes available in Otago and Southland can be found at theicehouse.co.nz

Business owners talk a lot about lead generation.“How do I get more leads?” “Where do I find them?” “Should I be running ads?”These are the kinds of questions I hear over and over again. But here’s a more important one: What are you doing with the leads you already have?Because truthfully, many businesses don’t have a lead generation problem. They have a lead retention problem.It’s not about finding more. It’s about holding onto what’s already working.Your next lead might already know youLet’s flip the script.You don’t need to spend all day creating new funnels, cold messaging strangers, or refreshing your inbox hoping for something new.Chances are, your best leads are already in your world: the person who asked for a quote but never heard back.The past client who had a great experience and just needs a reason to return.The contact who said “circle back in a few months” (and you never did).The happy customer who would recommend you. If only you’d asked.We often assume the opportunity is out there somewhere, when really, it’s sitting quietly, waiting for a nudge.The real cost of inactionHere’s the kicker: so much potential business is left sitting idle because of silence.Think about how often this happens:Enquiries get lost in inboxes.Proposals are sent but never followed up on.Past clients go months, even years, without hearing from you.You finish a project and forget to ask for a referral—even though the client was thrilled.It's not a lack of leads. It's a lack of follow-through.3 Quick fixes to stop the leakIf this sounds familiar, the good news is it’s fixable and fast. Here's where to start:1. Follow up more than feels comfortable Most people stop after one or two follow-ups. But often, it's the fifth or sixth message that lands.No reply doesn’t mean “no.” It might just mean “not yet.” Life gets busy. Following up shows professionalism, not desperation.Dust off those half-finished conversations and check back in.2. Reconnect with past clients Your best future client might be someone you've already helped.They know you. They trust you. Don’t treat them like a closed file treat them like an open door.Check in. Share something useful. Offer a next step. Keep that relationship warm.3. Make referrals effortless People love to recommend great services but they need a little help.Make it easy. Send them a line they can forward. Offer a referral link. Remind them who your work is best suited for.A good referral system isn’t pushy, it’s thoughtful and clear.Do This Before You Close Your LaptopYou don’t need to overhaul your marketing. You just need to act on what’s already in play.Before the day ends, try one of these:Re-send that proposal.Call a client you haven’t spoken to in a while.Ask someone you trust for a referral.That single action might bring in your next client without chasing anyone.

Last night, after a long day, I found myself aimlessly scrolling TikTok just like many of us do.One video caught my attention: a street interview, the kind where someone walks up to strangers and asks deep or silly questions. It seemed real enough, until I glanced at the comments.Everyone was saying the same thing: “This is AI.”I looked a little closer and sure enough, they were right.Turns out, Google recently released a new version of its AI video generator Veo 3, and it's shockingly realistic. The facial expressions, the tone of voice, the body language it all felt so human. I ended up going down a rabbit hole, watching video after video trying to figure out which ones were real and which were AI-generated. At a glance, they’re nearly impossible to tell apart.Once you know what to look for, unnaturally smooth movements or slightly off audio, you can spot them. But if you’re casually scrolling? You probably won’t notice. That’s the unsettling part.AI is everywhere and that’s the problemAI-generated content isn’t limited to video. It’s showing up everywhere from Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok, to TV ads and even non-media spaces like toothbrushes.Ads are using superimposed faces and voices to sell products at a mass scale.I even saw an ad the other day from Skinny where a woman’s face was digitally placed into different scenes, urging people to buy into their next plan.At first glance, it’s clever. But at what cost?On Pinterest, I’ve seen AI-generated products advertised with glowing reviews only for people to receive scam items, if anything at all. Fake crystal mugs for sale on Pinterest On Facebook, AI images go viral with tens of thousands of likes and shares, fooling people into believing they’re looking at reality.Look at the number of comments and shares on these Facebook posts!AI bots are also boosting comments and engagement, responding to content and mimicking real users. TikTok now has interviews where the interviewer and interviewee are both AI-generated.It’s starting to feel like we’re not watching people anymore. We’re watching simulations of them.So what does this mean for you?We’re now living in a time where it’s getting harder to trust what we see online. People are frustrated. They feel tricked, misled, and disconnected. There’s growing resentment toward AI not because it’s not impressive, but because it’s replacing something important: effort, authenticity, and human connection.Consumers are becoming more aware of AI-generated images and videos. And when they suspect something is AI? Trust evaporates. Even big companies are feeling the heat. Duolingo, the language learning app, recently faced backlash after its CEO said the company was going to be “AI forward,” which led to staff cuts. The result? Thousands of users deleted the app, feeling let down by the brand’s shift away from people. And internally, the decision sparked resentment among staff on often overlooked cost that can weigh heavily on a business over time.The fear isn’t just about job loss. It’s about identity. Work, creativity, storytelling these are core parts of who we are. So when a business replaces those things with automation, it can feel like a dismissal of human value.Where do we go from here?AI is only going to get better. It will soon create more realistic, more human-like content than ever before. But just because it can, doesn’t mean it should replace everything.As businesses, we need to be selective and intentional about how we use AI. There’s a fine line between enhancing productivity and eroding trust.Here’s what not to do:Don’t rely on AI for all communication. Mass-generating emails that sound generic or robotic might save time, but it strips away the personal touch. If customers feel like they’re talking to a machine, they’ll disconnect.Don’t use AI-generated art or visuals without transparency. People are becoming increasingly wary of digital imagery that feels “off.” If your product or brand identity is tied to visuals, using AI art without care can make your brand feel impersonal, or worse deceptive.Avoid fully automating reporting and insights without context. AI can crunch numbers, but it doesn’t understand nuance. Reports that are purely AI-generated often lack the strategic interpretation your clients or teams actually need. Add human commentary to make insights meaningful.Don’t let AI become your brand’s voice. Customers crave real connection. They want to feel heard, understood, and valued. If every touchpoint your captions, emails, ads, support is written by AI, it can start to feel like no one’s really behind the brand.Ultimately, what will set businesses apart isn’t how efficiently they can implement AI it’s how well they preserve their humanity while doing so.Use AI to support your work, not to replace the essence of it. Let it handle the repetitive tasks so your team can focus on what matters most: building relationships, telling real stories, and showing people that they still matter in a world that’s becoming increasingly automated.

Budget 2025 ‘The growth budget’ has been out for more than a week and people are asking what’s in it for me, and what do I need to know?The Central App has several trusted advisors and regular contributors from a wide range of sectors and services, including employment, insurance, property, finance and law, who we’ve approached for their take on the announcements.In this article retirement and business are the topics covered, and the other sectors will follow in the coming days. Central Financial Planning (CFP) director Brent Wilson said changes to KiwiSaver, aimed at boosting long-term retirement savings, present both opportunities and challenges.“Now more than ever, it’s essential to understand how the rules affect you, your ideal future, and your finances.”Contribution increases will increase in a phased way - from April 1, 2026 it’s up to 3.5 per cent for employees and employers and then in April 2028 it’s up to 4 percent. Employees can opt to temporarily stay at 3 per cent, but then it’s the same for their employer too.  Government contributions will be halved starting July 1 (from $521 to $261 per year).Brent said the reduction may also disproportionately affect lower- to middle-income savers, who benefit most from the relative boost it provides.“For employers and small businesses, the phased increases in compulsory contributions may present budgetary challenges, especially in tighter economicenvironments. We recommend business owners factor these changes into their long-term payroll and cashflow planning early.”Younger workers (ages 16 and 17) will be eligible for both government contributions from July 2025 and employer contributions from April 2026. Brent said this was an “encouraging shift” that “gives young people a genuine head start — not just in financial contributions, but in cultivating good saving habits early.”Checketts McKay Law director Fraser Sinclair said the main positive aspect for business was the announcement of the Investment Boost initiative, which is a tax incentive for businesses to invest in productive assets.“The government is anticipating that this will incentivise businesses to invest in productive assets like machinery, tools, and equipment. “The announcement indicated that they expect this incentive to lift gross domestic product (GDP) by one per cent and wages by 1.5 per cent over the next 20 years, with half of those gains in the next five years.”With Investment Boost, businesses can deduct 20 per cent of a new asset’s value from that year’s taxable income, on top of normal depreciation. Because the cashflow from investments improves, more investment opportunities become financially viable and therefore more take place.If you’re a farmer or a business about to buy a new asset such as a tractor or vehicle, talk to your accountant - you’ll be able to offset 20 per cent of the purchase price when it comes to paying your tax bill at the end of the year.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Transformative environmental work in the Manuherekia catchment was celebrated at a special 1st year anniversary event near Lauder on Tuesday.Andrew Hoggard - Minister for Biosecurity and Food Safety and Associate Minister of Agriculture (Animal Welfare, Skills) and for the Environment, opened the celebration event and emphasised that collaboration was key to success.The Waiora Manuherekia Project, led by the Manuherekia Catchment Group, was first launched in July 2024, thanks to Ministry for the Environment funding.Project lead Clare Hadley said they had to move quickly and stay laser-focused on its vision to connect the community to the Manuherikia River, “and carry out environmental work to help improve and enhance this unique and special resource.” Thousands of people live and work close to the Manuherikia River and its tributaries or received water from the river directly or indirectly. The river sat at the heart of the region and connected the community through access to water for wellbeing, recreation, economic activity and spiritual connection. In less than a year, the project has achieved significant environmental outcomes:Treated 70 hectares for weedsPlanted 7.75 hectares with 15,000 plants on riparian, lake and wetland areasBuilt or repaired 67.7 kilometres of fencingWorked with 12 landowners to support 14 wetland restorations through a contestable funding processSupported willow removalCreated soil and landscape mapping to support farmersConnected with the community through training sessions, events, school competitions, newsletters and celebrations "This is only the start," Clare said. “I am confident the momentum will continue, and with a community as motivated as ours, we know great things will continue to happen.” 

Central Otago’s Deputy Mayor for the past 15 years Neil Gillespie, also a district councillor since 2001, has decided to throw his hat in the ring for a seat at the Otago Regional Council.Announcing his intention to stand at this year’s election for a position on the Dunstan ward, he said the timing was right, given his recent change of employment.Neil left Contact Energy in January 2025 after 47 years in the electricity generation industry to work in his own consultancy business, and has been looking at other opportunities within the region as well.Given his vast experience in resource management through his role as chair of the Central Otago District Council Hearings Panel and at Contact Energy, the ORC was the perfect fit.As a regional councillor, the governance role largely covered environmental decisions relating to water, air and land use activities, whilst district councillors made decisions on infrastructure and services, assets and overall community wellbeing.Gary Kelliher and Michael Laws along with Alexa Forbes currently represented the Dunstan ward of the Otago Regional Council, which was being extended to four seats next term, but Queenstown-based Alexa has already announced she won’t be standing again.That could mean three Central Otago-based elected members all representing Dunstan if Neil was voted in - including two from Cromwell.In our election coverage, we will look at who was intending on standing again this October from the district council, in both councillor and community board roles, as well as any other new surprises for candidacy in the ORC.Neil said while he’d always had a leaning towards the regional council, he was unable to stand while working for Contact Energy, as it was too much of a conflict.Regarding his time as Deputy Mayor and district councillor, in the last two terms he always said there was a lot of work that experienced elected members needed to do, "but i can’t keep saying that. Now i have the capacity to consider the ORC and i have that experience in what they do.”Looking back over his 27 years, Neil said it was about doing the right things for people, in a balanced way that best reflected the “big picture” views of the community.“I’ve always said that I got involved in local government so I could be part of the team that would ensure Cromwell/Central Otago would be a place in the future that would be able to provide future generations with opportunities that my family benefited from.”“But I have done my time and now it’s time for something else in my life.”Mayor Tamah Alley has already put her name forward to be elected, and word on the street is there may be two others joining her, so then the next big question is, who will be the deputy?

The Otago Regional Council is still waiting on confirmation from Minsters about whether it can use the exemption pathway for its water permit deadlines.Unintended consequences of the regional council not being able to notify its Land and Water Regional Plan last year were being worked through with the Ministry for the Environment.But Cr Michael Laws questioned staff last week about whether they had a back up plan if the Government was not favourable.Chief executive Richard Saunders said they have continued engagement with MfE officials including sharing technical information, and they have gone back to brief Minister Penny Simmonds.But the Budget process was currently taking priority, and there had been no recent updates, he said.“Are you hoping to change the minds of Ministers and haven’t got a Plan B?” Cr Laws questioned.Staff told the regional council at its last meeting in Queenstown there has been several unintended consequences for ORC in performing its function to sustainably manage freshwater. They related to continuing with the current planning framework and were a particular issue for managing rural diffuse discharges and water quantity in Otago.The council asked Minister Simmonds to make a legislative amendment to existing water permits so their expiry date was after the new plan was operative, overriding the existing December 31 date and extending it to 2031.The Government’s National Policy Statement on Fresh Water (NPS:FM) was being consulted on this year, and the regional council was hopeful they would get a good outcome.The regional council has already spent $20 million on its original land and water plan and expected it would take another five years for the new one.“But we not actively working on a Plan B or committing staff resources at this time,” Richard said,Have a story to share? Contact [email protected]

Recent changes to New Zealand’s Equal Pay legislation have sent a strong signal: relying on government action alone is no longer enough to close the gender pay gap.Employers must lead the way.Change starts within organisations, driven by business leaders ready to take responsibility. This is your opportunity to ask: Are you ready to stand up and say “Fair Pay” with pride?Fair pay isn’t just about compliance. It’s a strategic advantage that strengthens workplace culture, helps attract and retain top talent, and builds lasting trust with your team.Leading by Example: What Does Fair Pay Look Like?1. Conduct proactive pay audits Don’t wait until legislation forces your hand. Regularly review pay structures, identify disparities, and make adjustments. Be transparent about what you find—this builds credibility.2. Start conversations about pay Creating a culture of pay transparency helps normalise the discussion. Use initiatives like the government’s Mind the Gap to guide your efforts. Their pay gap registry features organisations committed to reporting and improving pay equity.3. Promote your values Showcase your “No Gender Pay Gap” stance in your employer branding. Consider joining the Mind the Gap Registry as a public declaration of your commitment to fair pay and equity.4. Support others and lead industry changeLead industry-wide change. Celebrate businesses taking action, share your own journey, and collaborate to create systemic change. A collective approach drives faster progress.While recent legislative changes may have limited some legal pathways to achieving pay equity, they also serve as a catalyst for a different approach: courageous, values-led leadership. Organisations that prioritise fairness and transparency are not only doing the right thing — they’re also positioning themselves for long-term success. Fair Pay Leads to Business SuccessWhen women and other underrepresented groups feel valued and paid fairly, they’re more engaged, more loyal, and more likely to thrive in your organisation. This improves retention, boosts innovation, and builds a stronger, more sustainable business.This isn’t merely about compliance — it’s about cultivating a culture of fairness that becomes embedded in your organisation’s identity. It’s your legacy in the making. Will Your Business Say “Fair Pay Starts Here”?Now is the time to take action. Be a leader in fair pay—not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because it’s good business.Whether you’re starting or scaling your commitment, EASI NZ is here to help.Learn more at mindthegap.nz/just-ask or get in touch to embed fair pay in your organisation’s culture.

The average rates increases for the next year are closer to being finalised, with the Central Otago District Council currently sitting at 12.46% after its Long Term Plan deliberations yesterday.There's another deadline looming - the Roxburgh Pool Committee has until Monday to decide whether to hand over its two-year-old facility to the council, or the transfer was off the table.Deputy Mayor Neil Gillespie had strong words for the Teviot community, to “get it together,” following the divide among residents about whether to divest the pool asset.The Roxburgh Pool Committee first told council in December 2024 that the complexities and costs associated with managing and maintaining a pool had increased, and they were struggling to employ lifeguards to keep the facility safe and supervised. But council taking ownership of the pool would mean a further increase in rates for the Teviot, and many people were not keen on that option, according to feedback in the LTP.Council would officially strike its rates on July 1, and the final decision needed to be made on who was operating the Roxburgh pool moving forward.Meanwhile, the Alexandra community has made it clear its outdoor pool should stay and would be better utilised if adequately staffed, and the council has listened.The Centennial Milk Bar will be retained in RanfurlyEight low use halls/community facilities would be divested across the district, and those council has chosen not to continue financially supporting - Patearoa, Wedderburn and Waipiata, already had community discussions underway for their future ownership.A total of 13 halls and community facilities have been retained - Millers Flat, Poolburn, Becks, Ophir, Clyde Hall, museum and the railway station, Ranfurly Hall, Wallace Memorial Rooms, Centennial Milkbar, Naseby Hall and general store, and the Fenton Library.The proposed $250,000 tourism grant to SuperCars was now off the table after council hadn’t received any formal proposal about the event - nor had they received a submission on it.Council decided that bumping up volumetric water charges from 60 cents to $2.40/cu m was extreme, and decided to increase them initially to $1.60 for the first year, and then up to $2.40 the following year - to give high users time to explore other options.With no water charge increases since 2012, council admitted it had dropped the ball, but staff said by staying with the status quo they risked not being able to service some high use areas in Cromwell and Clyde.Mayor Tamah Alley said the big issues were with commercial irrigators still linked into town water supplies, “and they’re going to have to find alternatives.”The Alexandra Blossom Festival’s $24,500 that it had to reapply for every year, would now be funded annually through the District Tourism reserves.A surprise mining royalties contribution of $165,000 per annum would be used for the roading emergency works fund, and there would be more about that in the Central App tomorrow.Have a story to share? Contact [email protected]

Active board members of community and not-for-profit organisations around Central Otago that were willing to help others are encouraged to sign up for a six-month mentorship.Organised by huddl - an organisation that helped support community groups and networks across Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes, the programme matched mentees with local mentors to improve their effectiveness, impact and confidence in governance. Project lead Fiona Reeve said they have some really great Central Otago mentors on the programme who understood the local environment.Over the past three cohorts, they’ve had 36 mentees complete the programme, and the programme opened up each year to about 12 new candidates.The programme would run from June to December 2025 and was designed to develop governance capability, foster connections, and build confidence among non-profit board members.Participants were matched with experienced local mentors who brought not-for-profit governance knowledge and an understanding of the region’s unique challenges and opportunities.  The programme was made up of one-on-one mentoring sessions and three cohort networking events, and online check-ins.“Great mentoring can make a huge and ongoing impact, not only for the mentee but also for their organisation and community.”“Governance can sometimes be isolating, particularly for those in chair roles,” she said. “That’s why the networking events and cohort connections are such a valuable aspect of this programme.”Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed, with the final cohort confirmed ahead of an orientation in mid-June. To register head to www.huddl.nz or email [email protected] huddl was governed by members of Alexandra Community House, Central Lakes Trust, Central Otago District Council, Cromwell & Districts Community Trust, Queenstown Lakes District Council, Sport Central, Volunteer South and Whakatipu Hub.Have a story to share? Contact [email protected]