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]

The Cromwell Racecourse reserve could be used for new sports fields to accommodate population growth in the town.The community was being asked for feedback on the future of the racecourse reserve, which spans 93.49ha on Ripponvale Road.Currently managed under a lease agreement with the Central Lakes Equestrian Club Committee Incorporated, investigations have been taking place to find out if the reserve would support both equestrian use and a broader range of community recreational activities.Cromwell has been identified as being short of sports fields, from an assessment carried out by the Central Otago District Council in 2022.Central Otago’s population was forecast to increase by over 26 percent by 2040, with Cromwell’s population alone expected to grow to more than 8000 residents. The growth was expected to place significant pressure on existing reserves and infrastructure.At the racecourse reserve, medium term (to 2030) there could be provision for four new full-sized sports fields, and long term (to 2045) an additional four fields, enabling up to eight full-sized fields in total. This development would occur without displacing equestrian users and supported the vision of the site as a future regional sports hub. To support the dual-purpose approach and respond to population growth and increasing demand for sporting and recreational spaces in Cromwell, a new Reserve Management Plan was required to reflect current use and future aspirations.The two-month public consultation would run in accordance with Section 41 of the Reserves Act 1977.The draft RMP will be available online Let’s Talk Central Otago and in hard copy at the Cromwell Service Centre and Cromwell Library, from 19 May to 14 July 2025.A drop-in session would also be held at the Cromwell Service Centre Council Chambers on Wednesday 4 June, 4pm-6pm providing the public with an opportunity to learn more and speak with staff.

The National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) is seeking feedback on a revised code of welfare for sheep and beef cattle.NAWAC is an independent group which advises the government on animal welfare issues.The draft code proposes several updates to minimum standards and recommendations for best practice, and includes a ban on the use of electro-immobilisation devices.Chairperson Dr Matt Stone said this followed best practice overseas and few farmers used them these days anyway."The majority of farmers no longer use this method, and we feel there are better alternatives out there that are highly effective."Among other key changes are the introduction of dairy sheep standards, which Dr Stone described as a "growing industry"."That's a brand new section in the code that obviously draws from industry experience but also apply sort of let's call them hybrid settings between some for the settings we might see in the dairy cattle code but then of course also related to sheep husbandry."There would also be new minimum standards for animals in off-paddock facilities and feedlots, and ensuring sheep and beef cattle have the opportunity to express natural behaviours.This included contingency planning, which Dr Stone said was especially "topical" given multiple adverse weather events across New Zealand in recent years."[They] describe the responsibilities of farmers and people in charge of animals in relation to contingency planning for adverse weather events, but also for infrastructure failures such as critical infrastructure on farm automated feeding systems, these types of things, or a fire or other natural disaster."Beef + Lamb New Zealand chairperson Kate Acland said the draft appeared to take a "balanced approach" to ensuring stock owners ensure the welfare of the animals in their care."Based on our initial analysis of the updated Code, the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee should be commended for considering on-farm practicality, and for showing their reasoning, in setting out the standards that must be achieved."The new proposals take into account new technologies and updated science, she said.Pain relief during animal husbandry procedures such as docking or tailing has been recommended as best practice rather than a minimum standard, and the standards around shade and shelter appear sensible and achievable.Acland said some areas though may need a closer look, such as ensuring unweaned lambs being prepared for transport have been fed within a specified period."As farmers, we pride ourselves on how we look after the animals in our care."In addition to seeking views from sheep and beef farmers and others affected by the changes, Dr Stone said NAWAC was encouraging feedback from animal advocates and the public."We welcome a wide range of perspectives on the proposed changes to ensure the code is practical and delivers good animal welfare outcomes."More information can be found on the Ministry for Primary Industries website.Consultation closes on 15 July.To report an animal welfare concern go to the reports section on The Central App then click on the Animal Welfare button.

There were school principals, passionate community hall users, museum supporters and even primary school students at the Central Otago District Council Long Term Plan (LTP) hearings yesterday.Council considered submissions on the LTP (2025-2034), and spent the day listening to 72 speakers both in person and online, to determine the direction of the district for the next 10 years.The proposed divestment of up to 26 community halls and buildings - including a significant majority in the Maniototo, brought many passionate pleas for council to rethink their proposal.Naseby Vision member Dave Brady said most communities were not set up to run their assets, and losing council support for their general store would have a detrimental effect on the town.Saying it was “disingenuous" to add the divestment of halls to the LTP, he encouraged the council to reject the proposal outright.The Patearoa community felt the same way about theirs - Michelle Bissett telling council that with no school and the pub on the market, where else could people in the community meet?“You are gutting the heart of rural communities.”Garry Price and David Hurd spoke on behalf of the Ophir Welfare Committee and said asking 50 to 60 residents to shoulder the responsibility of maintaining their memorial hall was unfair. Year 7 and 8 students from Poolburn School made a special trip to Alexandra to present their submission in person.The school relied on the Poolburn-Moa Creek hall as an extension of their two classrooms, for prizegivings, a talent show and disco, and the wider community used it for birthdays, weddings and 21st’s.One student brought Cr Lynley Claridge to tears with her comments “you can feel the walls combusting with thousands of memories.”Council was already talking to many community groups about acquiring their halls and buildings to maintain the on-going operational maintenance - to take the burden off ratepayers.Next week (May 20), council will meet again to consider all of the submissions and consultation items - including other important issues such as the future of community pools in Alexandra and Roxburgh.Draft budgets would be amended prior to the material being presented to Audit New Zealand. The final audit would commence on Monday May 26, and the LTP presented at the June 25 meeting for adoption - where the rates would also be set for the year.Have a story to share? Contact [email protected]

Let’s cut through the noise: running your own business is hard. You’ve gone from being an expert in your field to becoming a one-person corporation. You didn’t sign up to wear every hat—consultant, marketer, IT specialist, accountant—and yet, here you are. The pressure is immense. The self-doubt creeps in. And sometimes, you wonder: Am I really cut out for this?Have you ever:Felt terrified that you’re not capable of pulling this off?Been overwhelmed by self-doubt, wondering if you’re really doing the right thing?Wrestled with imposter syndrome, questioning whether you even deserve to be here?Constantly compared yourself to others, feeling like everyone else is smashing it while you’re… just keeping your head above water?If you hesitated, or even whispered “yes” you’re not alone.The truth is, we all feel this way at some point.But I want you to know this: you’re more capable than you give yourself credit for.You’ve already achieved so much—why stop believing in your brilliance now?Here’s the real question: What’s stopping you from stepping into your brilliance and letting the world see it?Let’s unpack this with three steps you can take today to move past the fear and fully own your power.1. Own Your ValueAre you boldly showing up as the expert, or are you a self-proclaimed card-carrying member of the world’s best-kept secret club?You’ve spent years, maybe even decades, honing your craft. So why, after all this time, are you still downplaying your value? You’ve got the expertise, the experience, and the results to back it up. Own it. Shout it from the rooftops. Stop hiding behind modesty or fear of judgment.Ask yourself:What do you truly stand for?What’s the work you love doing?How are you helping your clients solve real problems?Remember: you’re not starting from scratch. You don’t need to slash your rates to attract clients. Stand tall, and unapologetically communicate your worth.2. Be SeenAre you putting yourself out there, or are you stuck waiting for people to notice you?I’ve spoken to countless women who are brilliant at what they do, but they’re struggling to be seen and heard by the right people. Perhaps you’re so bogged down in the day-to-day delivery that you ‘don’t have time’ to market yourself. Maybe the initial flurry of referrals has dried up, and now you’re unsure how to attract new clients.There is so much noise in the business world that visibility is crucial.You can’t stay invisible and expect your business to grow.You need to step into the spotlight. Build your reputation as an authority in your field, speak up, share your expertise, and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. It’s your brilliance that will attract the right clients and opportunities to you.3. Focus on Aligned OpportunitiesNot everything deserves your yes.As your business grows, people will push and pull you in different directions. The temptation to say yes to everything can be strong, but remember: just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.Focus on the work that aligns with your brilliance—the kind of work that excites you and helps you grow. Don’t get caught up in projects or clients that drain your energy or don’t align with your values. Learn to say no to anything that doesn’t move you forward or light you up. Stay true to your purpose and your passion, and let that guide your decisions.You’ve come so far. Every step, every win and loss, has led you to this moment.Now is the time to own your brilliance.It’s time to stop playing small, stop waiting on the sidelines, and step into your power.Are you ready to take that next step?Your brilliance is ready to be seen.

Lately, there’s been a feeling in the air, and maybe it’s just me, that many of us around Central are living week to week, running hard but standing still. You know that “rat on a wheel” feeling? Wake, work, rinse, repeat... and still wonder if you’re getting anywhere.On Tuesday, I found myself wondering: Why am I working so hard, but still feel stuck?But then Wednesday rolled around, and I was invited to speak at the Rotary Club in Alexandra. I walked in feeling heavy and tired but walked out feeling lifted and inspired.What changed?Simple. A few people took the time to share how much they enjoy using The Central App and about how they check it daily, that it’s their go-to for what’s on, local news, and what’s happening in our towns.It was just a few comments. But they meant the world.It reminded me how powerful a little positive feedback can be. We hear a lot about what’s going wrong, but not enough about what’s working.So here’s my challenge to you this week: Tell one person they’re doing a great job. Say thanks. Let them know you see their effort.At The Central App, we know news can’t always be positive, but we’re committed to highlighting the good where we can.This week’s stories are full of community wins, inspiring people, and reasons to feel good about where we live.

As the temperature drops in Central Otago and frosty mornings become the norm, so too do the habits of locals and visitors shift. For businesses across the region, winter isn't a time to hibernate it's a time to adapt, inspire, and connect more deeply with your audience.Here’s how you can make the most of the cooler season, create a memorable experience for customers, and keep your business thriving through the winter months.1. Understand How Your Customers Act in WinterPeople’s behaviours change dramatically with the seasons. In winter:Locals tend to hunker down and stick to routine.Foot traffic in town centres can dip.Travellers coming for the snow might seek out warm places to eat, shop, and explore between adventures.Families are looking for things to do indoors.Everyone is craving comfort whether it’s food, fashion, or friendly service.The takeaway? Think about what your audience is likely to need right now. Is it convenience? Warmth? A pick-me-up? Shift your messaging to suit the season. A café might lean into hearty winter specials or mulled drinks. A retailer could showcase winter gear, gifts, or “cosy home” ideas. Service providers may offer winter-ready packages, deals, or reminders.2. Leverage Your Online Presence – Even If You’re a Brick-and-Mortar BusinessWinter is scroll season. When it’s cold out, people are more likely to browse from the couch.Even if your business doesn’t offer delivery, your online visibility matters more than ever in winter. It’s where inspiration begins—customers check your socials, The Central App, Google listing, or website before stepping foot in your store.Some quick wins:Keep your business profiles up to date with winter hours, photos, and offerings.Post regularly on social media with seasonal content (behind-the-scenes, staff picks, winter promotions).Share “what’s in store” updates—photos of products, specials, or even the vibe in your shop that day.Use local hashtags (like #CentralOtagoWinter or #AlexandraNZ) so people planning trips or outings find you.3. Create an Inviting Winter Atmosphere In-StoreLet your space feel like winter in the best way possible. This is about sensory marketing: warmth, colour, and emotion all influence behaviour.Use:Warm lighting and deep-toned colours to create a sense of coziness.Seasonal scents like cinnamon, pine, or vanilla if suitable for your business.Friendly touches like blankets, heaters, or a hot drink corner to make people want to linger.This kind of atmosphere creates positive associations it’s not just about the product, it’s about how people feel when they’re with you. And that feeling is what gets shared and remembered.4. Run Winter Campaigns That Speak to the MomentWinter is a great time to get creative with your marketing. You might not have the foot traffic of summer, but people are still engaging. They just need a nudge.Try:Themed sales or bundles: “Winter Warmers,” "Frosty Day Picks,” “Cosy at Home Packs.”Collaborations with other local businesses think cafés, clothing stores, and activities teaming up for shared giveaways or trails.Customer rewards or loyalty boosts during the quiet months.Highlight the products or services that solve your customers’ cold weather woes think warm blankets, cosy drinks, winter attire, or home comforts. Show that you have what they’re looking for this season.5. Remember: Presence Beats PerfectionYou don’t need a massive campaign or polished videos to win at winter marketing. You just need to be visible, relevant, and genuine. Be where your customers are (online and offline), speak to their winter needs, and show up with warmth literally and figuratively.Central Otago has a special kind of winter magic. Lean into it. Celebrate it. Reflect it in your business. Whether you’re selling mulled wine, handmade scarves, car servicing, or haircuts, this is the time to build connection and community.And when spring rolls around, you’ll be top of mind.Need help crafting your winter campaign or updating your local listings? Let us know we’re here to help you make this winter your warmest season yet.

The second stage of the Central Otago District Plan review will see council engage with the rural community and industries about land use going forward.Community information sessions were being held in Tarras, Cromwell, Bannockburn, Roxburgh, Alexandra and Ranfurly over the next week to discuss the issues facing rural communities.The CODC said it was an important piece of work given the significance of production to the Central Otago economy.Principal policy manager Ann Rodgers said the planning team intended to "cast the net wide" to talk to as many people and interest groups as possible for their views.The review would include consideration of allotment size, worker accommodation, reverse sensitivity, landscape classification, indigenous biodiversity and ensuring productive capacity was protected.Suze Keith from Sustainable Tarras, said the group was very interested in the review of the rural land chapters, “we see it as a great opportunity to have a collective and holistic discussion about the long term vision for the district.”She said it was a rare chance for those that lived and worked in Tarras to be heard, “lately Christchurch Airport, Brisbane miners and remote ministers have had a lot to say about the future of Tarras.”Sustainable Tarras was made up of just eight members, with support from people all over New Zealand, who met fortnightly to discuss their research and findings, and make Official Information Act requests for important information on relevant high profile projects.The council would also look at provisions for rural residential and settlement zones, and opportunities to extend the protection of the night skies enabled by Plan Change 22 in consultation with rural communities.Have a story to share? Contact [email protected]

Most of us don’t love feeling like we’re being “sold to,” and chances are your customers don’t either. But if you’re running a business, you still need to let people know what you offer and why it matters. The key is to connect with them in a way that feels real and helpful, not pushy.Here are a few simple but effective ways to do just that:Talk About the Problem FirstRather than diving straight into what you do, start by showing you understand what people are struggling with. What’s annoying them, costing them time, or stopping them from getting ahead? Once you’ve shown you get it, you can explain how your product or service fits in as a genuine solution. People are more likely to trust you if they feel you’re on their side, not just chasing a sale. And if you’ve helped others in a similar situation, share that too. Real stories go a long way.Let Your Customers Do the TalkingPeople trust other people far more than they trust brands. So if you’ve got happy customers, let their words and experiences take centre stage. Online reviews, testimonials, or even a quick quote can build more credibility than a slick sales line ever could. Social proof isn’t about bragging, it’s about helping others feel confident they’re making a good decision.Make It PersonalNobody wants to feel like just another number. Tailor your messages when you can. Whether you’re running a campaign, sending an email, or posting on socials. Think about who you’re speaking to and what matters to them. When your content speaks to their situation, people are more likely to stop, read, and connect.Share What You KnowYou don’t need to save all your best knowledge for paying customers. If you’ve got tips, insights, or ways of working that could genuinely help someone, share them. People will appreciate the openness, and it shows you know your stuff. Over time, this kind of honest, helpful content builds trust and trust leads to sales.Stick in People’s MindsSometimes the simplest ideas are the ones people remember. Try to get clear on what makes you different and explain it in a way that’s easy to understand. Avoid overthinking it. Just say what you do, who it’s for, and how it helps. If you can say it in a way that sticks, even better.Shift the FocusIf your content is all about “we do this” and “we’re great at that,” it might be time for a shift. Put the focus back on your customers – their needs, goals, and experiences. It’s not about you; it’s about how you can make life easier or better for them. This shift in focus often makes people feel like you actually care, not just trying to make a quick sale.Start with ValueBefore you ask for anything (whether it’s time, money, or attention) think about what you can give. Share helpful info, answer a common question, or offer a free resource. It shows you’re here to help, not just to sell. If people get value from you early on, they’re more likely to stick around and want more.

Thinking about using video to promote your business but not sure where to start? You’re not alone. Creating videos can feel a bit daunting at first especially when you’re juggling everything else in your day. But the good news is, you don’t need fancy gear or heaps of experience to make videos that actually work. With a few simple tips, you can create content that gets people to stop scrolling and pay attention.Here are six easy tips to help you create videos that stop the scroll and actually get seen.1. Start with a strong hookYou've got about three seconds to grab someone’s attention. That’s it.So whether it’s a bold statement, a surprising question, or a striking image, lead with something that’ll make people pause. Don’t be afraid to get creative. Add bold text on the screen or kick things off with a visually unexpected moment.2. Make it mobile-friendlyMost people are watching on their phones, so it pays to think vertical. Stick to a 9:16 ratio (that’s full screen on mobile) and make sure any text is big enough to read on a small screen. Bright colours, clear visuals, and a product or message that stands out will give you a leg up.3. Use a video editor to add a bit of magicYou don’t need to be a tech wizard to make things pop. Even simple edits like smooth transitions, basic animations, or fun effects can hold attention for longer.4. Tell a story your audience cares aboutThis is where the magic happens. Great videos don’t just sell—they connect.Think about what your audience needs or struggles with, and highlight how your product or service helps. Can you make them smile? Surprise them? Make them feel seen? Do that, and they’ll remember you.5. Don’t rely on soundLots of people scroll with the sound off. So if your video doesn’t make sense without audio, you might lose a big chunk of your audience.Use captions, on-screen text, or subtitles so people can still follow along—no headphones needed.6. Keep it short and punchyUnder 30 seconds is a good place to start. People have short attention spans online, so get to the point quickly. If you’re not sure what length works best, check your social media analytics to see where viewers tend to drop off.The bottom line?Creating scroll-stopping videos doesn’t mean you need a huge budget or a film crew. It’s about knowing your audience, keeping things sharp and simple, and bringing a bit of creativity to the mix.Start with these tips, test what works, and refine as you go. Your next video might just be the one that gets them to stop, watch—and maybe even buy.

Central Otago District councillors have sent a clear message to gaming societies, to increase their transparency and increase their funding.Council had to decide this week whether to retain class 4 gambling machines in pubs and clubs under current settings or introduce a 'sinking lid' approach where gaming machines would reduce over time.The societies which operate gaming machines were legally mandated to return 40% of the proceeds by way of community grants, but Central Otago received an average of just 27% of gaming machine funding returned as grant funding per year. "It's hard to prove there is a benefit coming back to the community, and whether that benefit would outweigh the harm," Mayor Tamah Alley summarised, asking that the societies return, at the next review, with clear benefits, data and evidence of an increase in return.In its Moderation Matters Consultation 2025, the number of submissions for and against phasing out gaming machines were split 11 each way, and councillors heard from health professionals and those involved with gaming machine funding.Those arguing against the sinking lid policy, including the Gaming Machine Association of New Zealand, said there was no link between the decline in machine numbers and problem gaming - which was currently at 0.2%.The district currently received $1.28 million in local grants from gaming machine funding, and Otago Rugby Football Union chief executive Richard Kinley said without it would result in a reassessment of its programme delivery.“Cost should be no barrier to children for rugby. We want children to play sport and if that’s rugby that’s great.”ORFU had been a recipient of gaming machine funding for many years, and emphasised that it was a critical part of its ability to deliver programmes across the region.But the Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF) said more than $1.037 billion was lost to pokies in New Zealand in 2024, and was strongly in support of the sinking lid policy.Central Otago currently had nine Class 4 Gambling venues (pubs/clubs) - considered the most high risk and harmful types in New Zealand. There were a total of 107 machines in the district.Mayor Alley asked councillors to weigh up the costs of problem gambling in the community, versus the benefits of being able to keep kids in sport.She also questioned the PGF about what support services they had for people in the district. Staff said there a fulltime counsellor available in Dunedin. Health New Zealand medical officer of health Dr Michael Bouchard, who also strongly in support of the sinking lid policy and said the peer reviewed medical literature spoke for itself.“It’s not an issue of problematic people but problematic products.”He said they couldn’t fix gambling harm by treating people but treating the cause.Mayor Alley used the opportunity again to question what level of support problem gamblers had in Central Otago, highlighting the district’s lack of access to many important health services.Dr Bouchard said the harm in gambling outweighed the grants “there is no doubt about that.”“The grants are easy to see but the harm is unseen because it’s in people’s homes. People are unaware of the magnitude of the harm.”After a lengthy discussion, councillors moved to support retaining the status quo, citing concerns about the risk to community funding, and the lack of alternative funding sources.The policy will next be reviewed, based on any of these changes, in 2028.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected] 

One farmer’s story of a bumpy day and how he kept the wheels turning.Accidents on the farm are never ideal, but they’re often inevitable. With deadlines to hit, stock to manage, and paddocks that don’t plough themselves, there’s never a good time for your gear to be out of action.Toby knows this all too well. One evening, after a full day’s work, he parked up his tractor and trailer, only for a mate’s truck to back into them. The force of the hit jolted the trailer forward into the tractor, smashing the PTO and leaving the whole setup unusable.There’s not a lot of time for stress on a farm, but in that moment, Toby was stuck. Tractors aren’t exactly something you can do without when things are moving fast. Replacements are pricey. Payments take time. And nobody’s got hours to waste.Luckily, Toby’s story didn’t stop there. His policy included something called a Loss of Use Benefit, basically, cover that kicks in when your vehicle can’t be used, even if it wasn’t your fault. He was able to hire a tractor straight away, get back to work, and then recover the cost through his insurance.These kinds of policies don’t just cover crashes. They’re designed to reduce downtime because for farmers, standing still isn’t an option.This particular claim is real, though we’ve changed a few details to protect the people involved.Every year, around 30% of farm commercial motor vehicles are claimed on, and the average cost for non-windscreen damage sits at about $5850.While most people think of these policies as protection for big crashes, the benefits stretch much further—helping farmers stay productive even when things go off track.Some of those added protections can include:Cover for borrowed vehiclesRental vehicle costsTyre damageEntanglement cover (think PTOs and wire fences)Worth having a yarn with your broker about what’s in your current policy? Could save you a major headache down the track.

The new Elevate Central business group has formed an incorporated society with an active committee, after its inaugural general meeting in February.With 30 to 40 active members already joined, the group encompassed a large cross section of people from across the district including business owners, school principals and council representatives.Elevate Central Inc was committed to strengthening the region through connection, collaboration, and shared leadership.At its second monthly breakfast in Alexandra this week, chair Dewald de Beer encouraged members to get to know one another and share insights from their industry.Over the past month the committee has canvassed the business community to have conversations about the Central Otago District Council’s Long Term Plan (LTP), and received feedback from 108 of those.Dewald said as a district they had to be mindful of growth projections and planning, as there could be some issues around infrastructure.Committee member Brent Wilson was part of the original Central Otago Chamber of Commerce group back in the 1990s, and said they had come a long way since then.“It’s about being positive and proactive. Together we can do a hell of a lot more.”He said despite the economic upheaval, people were just “getting on with it.”Elevate Central Inc members would also be collaborating on local projects and be involved with business advocacy.There would be guest speaker breakfasts and networking sessions, and overall it was a platform to share, learn and celebrate local success stories.If you'd like to learn more about joining the leadership group email [email protected] If you have a good story to share contact [email protected] Central Group formed

The new Elevate Central business group has formed an incorporated society with an active committee, after its inaugural general meeting in February.With 30 to 40 active members already joined, the group encompassed a large cross section of people from across the district including business owners, school principals and council representatives.Elevate Central Inc was committed to strengthening the region through connection, collaboration, and shared leadership.At its second monthly breakfast in Alexandra this week, chair Dewald de Beer encouraged members to get to know one another and share insights from their industry.Over the past month the committee has canvassed the business community to have conversations about the Central Otago District Council’s Long Term Plan (LTP), and received feedback from 108 of those.Dewald said as a district they had to be mindful of growth projections and planning, as there could be some issues around infrastructure.Committee member Brent Wilson was part of the original Central Otago Chamber of Commerce group back in the 1990s, and said they had come a long way since then.“It’s about being positive and proactive. Together we can do a hell of a lot more.”He said despite the economic upheaval, people were just “getting on with it.”Elevate Central Inc members would also be collaborating on local projects and be involved with business advocacy.There would be guest speaker breakfasts and networking sessions, and overall it was a platform to share, learn and celebrate local success stories.If you'd like to learn more about joining the leadership group email [email protected] If you have a good story to share contact [email protected] Central Group formed

Super Smash cricket will be back in Alexandra this summer, and the Alexandra Blossom Festival has secured operational funding for 2025 to run its annual September event.Otago Cricket and the Alexandra Blossom Festival Committee were both successful through the promotions and events grants for 2025 from the Vincent Community Board yesterday.The board agreed to grant $10,000 towards Super Smash cricket played at Molyneux Park over summer, to cover scaffolding for sight screens and camera towers.The blossy fest committee was given reprieve from a Central Otago District Council staff recommendation in 2024 to become self sufficient.The event cost $231,000 to run and the committee has to contest the council’s promotional fund every year - of which there is only $50,000.Board chair Jayden Cromb said with grant policies now slightly changed, there was no longer a requirement for the blossy fest grant to become a “sinking lid,” however, it remained a ‘suggestion’ and a preference for the long term.Winter Stellar Charitable Trust was declined its $20,000 application for a Dark Sky Reserve, and staff would continue to work with the group to make its application stronger.Blossy fest committee treasurer Tim Coughlan spoke to the board about the annual festival, which he described as a “massive” promotional event for Alexandra, that made sense both economically and socially.“We want to keep it affordable to get everyone there.”But as a not for profit organisation, it was not sustainable, “and we do have some great sponsors but that can change anytime.”Last year a Ministry of Business and Innovation (MBEI) grant meant they could use 50% of that for marketing spend, and another submission had been made for this year.Tim said the volunteer hours put in behind the scenes was huge, “from the gatekeepers who come back every year… it has every generation involved.”Warren McSkimming of Otago Cricket spoke to the board and said the Super Smash would bring six games to Molyneux Park during December/January and it was broadcast to six different countries, with 50,000-70,000 viewers.“Support for the Sparks is massive and the people queue up to watch the full day.“It’s a large cost to bring this to Alexandra, but the community still love having that cricket in the town. People know cricket and have been brought up with it.”

As we continue to advance into 2025, one trend stands out prominently: the conversation around generational differences in the workplace is shifting. Instead of focusing on age or background, the emphasis must be on hiring the right candidate based on their skills, values, qualifications and experience. While skills can be taught, trained or learned, instilling values and achieving cultural fit is considerably more challenging. Therefore, developing a measurable scoring system during recruitment can be a transformative approach.Creating a Measurable Scoring SystemMany hiring managers may wonder “How can we implement a scoring system without it feeling arbitrary?” The answer lies in its ability to streamline the hiring process by cutting through disagreements and guiding decision-making. A structured scoring system ensures alignment among hiring teams by providing a clear framework for evaluating candidates.To create a scoring system, begin by identifying key competencies that are vital for the role. For instance, if team-building skills are essential, you might consider asking prospective candidates: “Can you share an example of how you brought a team together to overcome a challenge? What actions did you take, and what was the result?”You can develop a scoring scale from 1 to 5, where 5 signifies the best possible response. A candidate who responds with, “I conduct regular team meetings,” could earn a score of 2 or 3; while it shows initiative, it may not comprehensively address the question. Conversely, a strong answer might be: “I spent time understanding each team member, observed the group dynamics, and sought their input before crafting a plan. Initially difficult, this process built trust and facilitated honest feedback, allowing us to improve collaboration and communication, ultimately leading to enhanced efficiency and profitability.” This response could receive a score of 5.Implementing this structured approach ensures the scores generated are substantive and relevant, helping to clarify who would best integrate into your team.The Importance of Reference ChecksWhile interviews are vital in the hiring process, they do not provide the complete picture. Reference checks are just as crucial; they can either reinforce your choice or raise potential concerns. These checks offer additional insights into a candidate’s previous performance, work ethic, and collaborative abilities. In many cases, reference checks might be the final puzzle piece that helps solidify your hiring decision.Valuing All Ages and ExperiencesIt is imperative to recognise the value that diverse experiences bring to the workplace. Age should never be a barrier to employment. Whether a candidate is just entering the job market or brings a wealth of industry experience, each individual contributes unique perspectives, knowledge, and potential mentorship. A workplace that values diversity across ages cultivates a mix of innovation and wisdom, leading to a stronger, more cohesive team.Partner with EASI NZ for Effective RecruitmentNavigating the hiring process can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially if you're new to it. At EASI NZ, we understand the intricacies of recruitment, and we are here to support you every step of the way. From creating tailored interview guides and conducting comprehensive reference checks to crafting engaging job advertisements, we have the tools and expertise to assist you in attracting the best candidates.Additionally, we offer regular workshops focused on Recruitment and Onboarding, encompassing the entire hiring process. Our mission is to help businesses thrive by aligning their recruitment strategies with company values, ensuring new hires not only possess the necessary qualifications but also align seamlessly with your team culture.Don't hesitate to reach out for a free, friendly chat and discover how EASI NZ can support you in making informed hiring decisions that will benefit your business. Together, we can build teams that excel, fostering a positive workplace culture while driving your business forward.By following this comprehensive approach to recruitment, you're more than just filling positions—you're building a foundation for long-term success. Let EASI NZ be your partner in cultivating a thriving workforce that embodies skill, values, and the right fit.

As we head into the Easter break, here are a few gentle reminders to help you reset, recharge, and reconnect—whether you're at home or still juggling work:1. Rest is ProductiveIt’s easy to feel guilty stepping away from the emails or to-do list, but rest isn’t laziness—it’s fuel. Even a short pause over Easter can give you the clarity and energy you need to move forward stronger.2. Disconnect to ReconnectGive yourself permission to log off (even if just for one day). Whether it’s spending time with family, going for a walk, or doing absolutely nothing—real connection starts when we’re present.3. Don’t OverscheduleWe often treat holidays like a race to catch up with everyone and everything. It’s okay to say no. Protect a bit of quiet time for yourself.4. Do One Thing Just for YouNot for your business, not for anyone else. Whether it’s reading in the sun, painting eggs with the kids, or sipping coffee without multitasking—small joys have a big impact.5. Reflect, Don’t RehashUse the space Easter brings to check in with how you’re really doing. What’s going well? What needs a shift? No pressure—just honest reflection.

Last night, while watching The Rookie with the kids (yes, we’re a bit behind, but completely hooked), something surprising happened. Between the action scenes and snack runs, I built a complete Easter landing page for our Shopify store.No developers.No design team.No detailed brief.Just me—and some incredibly smart AI tools.It wasn’t planned. I had been meaning to set up the page all week, but life kept getting in the way. So, I decided to give it a go while the kids were winding down for the night. I opened my laptop on the couch, fed a few prompts into the AI tools I’ve been testing, and just like that—it came together. Page built. Copy done. Images generated. All while still keeping up with the plot twists.This kind of thing used to take a whole team and multiple days. Now? It’s within reach of anyone willing to explore what's possible.And yet, for many retailers, AI still feels like this big, technical mystery—one more thing on an already full plate. With new tools appearing constantly and time being tighter than ever, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.But stories like this—where everyday tasks are made simpler, faster, and even a little bit fun—are becoming more common.This isn’t just about future-proofing anymore. It’s about working smarter now, using tools that are already here, already powerful, and surprisingly accessible.Retail is changing fast. And sometimes, that change looks like building a fully functioning online page during a Tuesday night TV binge.