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Maniototo community stalwart acknowledged
Maniototo community stalwart acknowledged

13 July 2025, 6:00 PM

There was a moment's silence in Central Otago District Council chambers on Thursday (July 10) to acknowledge the passing of former councillor Mike Dowling, of Ranfurly.Mike also served on the Maniototo Community Board, including chair for seven years, and the Community Trust of Maniototo from 1989 to 2017.He died on June 30 and a celebration of his life was held in Ranfurly on July 6.A third generation farmer of Pine Terrace (which has been in the Dowling family for over 100 years), Mike was a long standing stalwart of the Maniototo community and had been married to Joan for more than 50 years. The couple had seven children. Mike also gave his time to rugby clubs, school boards and charitable trusts. There were many tributes on social media for the man who was patron of the Maniototo rugby club, including from members of the ex Maniototo Maggots.“Over the years as a supporter there wouldn't have been a game he and Joan did not miss. Every ground in Otago country and beyond supporting their boys. They were a constant,” read the tribute.The ex-Maniototo Maggots said Mike was always on hand to give well-thought-out, truthful and experienced advice on how they had played, “and it was always respected and sought after”.Mike was crucial in the formation of the club and with the building of the new clubrooms.“His length of time of involvement in rugby on the Maniototo would be second to none. Not only have we lost a patron we have lost a pillar of our club but also a very dear friend.”Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

Kim Bowden welcomed to The Central App
Kim Bowden welcomed to The Central App

13 July 2025, 5:45 PM

Kim Bowden has joined The Central App news team, replacing reporter Anna Robb who worked for the company for the past three years.Kim retrained as a journalist about 15 years ago after working in the travel industry.Her most recent work was for Crux Media and a brief stint recently with Allied Press, for both the Otago Daily Times and the Central Otago News.Kim, who is based in Lowburn with her husband and three children, moved to Central Otago eight years ago. She worked for The Central App when she first arrived.Having graduated from AUT’s postgraduate journalism course, her first newspaper job was with The Southland Times, based in Alexandra.“It was a maternity leave contract, and I returned to Auckland, but I remember a glorious golden summer that left my husband and I wanting to return,” she said.Kim said she is passionate about local journalism - covering stories that directly affect people’s day-to-day lives. “I believe it plays a big role in creating connection and a sense of belonging, but also in helping communities face up to challenges,” she said.“I’m not afraid to report on the hard stuff - I think it’s important to reflect back what’s really going on, even when it’s uncomfortable. Good local reporting gives people reliable information to chew over at the dinner table or on the sidelines of the sports field. It lays out the issues clearly, so even if people disagree, they’re at least having the same conversation - and that’s how communities move forward together.”Kim is looking forward to getting stuck into some local democracy reporting, and is known for asking tough questions, thinking on her feet, and wanting to understand how and why things work the way they do.She also loves talking to people who do brilliant things, “whether it's a local business owner, a farmer with a smart new idea, or someone quietly making a difference”. “There's something energising about hearing what makes people tick, and I really enjoy turning those conversations into stories that celebrate their work and passion.”Before becoming a journalist, Kim worked as a tour guide across Southeast Asia and the Pacific (Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Fiji, Vanuatu, and NZ) for Intrepid Travel. “And, even further back, after graduating with a degree in politics and geography from the University of Auckland, I worked as an electoral secretary for three Members of Parliament.” Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

Life & Health insurance name changes in New Zealand (sponsored)
Life & Health insurance name changes in New Zealand (sponsored)

13 July 2025, 5:00 PM

As with many industries, life and health insurance providers sometimes change their names, particularly following acquisitions or structural shifts. Here’s a helpful breakdown of recent insurer name changes and what they mean for your policy.Why are insurance companies changing names?In recent years, several life and health (L&H) insurers in New Zealand have been bought or sold. This trend is especially noticeable where banks have chosen to focus on lending and outsource insurance to dedicated providers, rather than handling policies in-house.For policyholders, this can create confusion, especially when you receive a letter from a company you don’t recognise. And with the rise in insurance scams, you might even question if the correspondence is legitimate.Recent life & health insurer name changesHere’s a list of recent life insurance company name changes to help clarify who your policy may now be with:Asteron Life (previously owned by Suncorp Australia) was sold to Resolution Life in 2025.BNZ Life was acquired by Partners Life in 2022.Westpac Life NZ was sold to Fidelity Life in 2022.AMP Life, including the AXA Life brand, was sold to Resolution Life in 2020.OnePath Life NZ was sold by ANZ to Cigna in 2018.Cigna Life Insurance NZ was later sold to Chubb Life in 2022.AIA acquired Sovereign in 2018, and Sovereign policies were rebranded to AIA. Note: ASB Life is also part of the AIA NZ group.What happens to my policy if the insurer changes names?If your insurance provider changes name, your policy remains valid. In all transitions listed above, the original policy terms were honoured. Often, it's the same team operating behind the scenes, just under a different brand.Could this be a good thing?In some cases, joining a specialist life insurer may bring added value, such as improved claims processes or even enhanced cover options. Consolidation can mean better service and innovation.Unsure who your policy is with?If you’re unsure who your life or health insurance policy is now with, or if you're concerned about any unfamiliar correspondence get in touch. We’re here to help.Contact our Life & Health team

Latest listings with Tall Poppy (sponsored)
Latest listings with Tall Poppy (sponsored)

13 July 2025, 3:15 PM

This weekly feature showcases the newest listings from Tall Poppy Real Estate, offering you a first look at the latest homes on the market and updated every Thursday.Space, Style & Value for Big Families5 Ethereal Crescent, Mount PisaIf you're searching for incredible value in a spacious home that effortlessly caters to large, blended, or multi-generational families, 5 Ethereal Crescent in the peaceful community of Pisa Moorings is the one you've been waiting for. This substantial two-level residence offers the perfect blend of space, comfort, and functionality, making it ideal for growing households or those who love to entertain. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Keeley Anderson and Niki Lord.Seriously Sharp Buying30 Waenga Drive, CromwellOffering exceptional value for money, this substantial 210m2 home on a massive 786m2 section delivers the perfect blend of space, comfort, and location - ideal for families, relocators, and holiday home buyers alike. Whether you're making a permanent move to the heart of Central Otago or seeking a generously sized holiday base for all-season adventures, 30 Waenga Drive ticks all the boxes without compromising on lifestyle or budget. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Keeley Anderson and Niki Lord.Best buy in Wooing Tree? We think so!60 Wooing Tree Avenue, CromwellWhether you're a first home buyer, investor, or looking for the perfect holiday base in Central Otago, 60 Wooing Tree Avenue is an exceptional opportunity to secure stylish, low-maintenance living in one of Cromwell’s most desirable and fast-growing neighbourhoods at an exceptional price! Located in the sought-after Wooing Tree subdivision - just steps from the iconic reserve and the famous Wooing Tree itself - this is modern living with a heart, surrounded by vineyards, mountain views, and community spirit.Click here for more information or to contact the agent Keeley Anderson and Niki Lord.Exceptional Design Meets Effortless Living!1 Fraer Street, CromwellDesigned and built with inspiration from a show home, this thoughtfully curated property showcases exceptional quality, comfort, and attention to detail throughout. Every element has been carefully considered, resulting in a home that is as functional as it is beautiful.Click here for more information or to contact the agent Kate Andrew.Appealing Bridge Hill Home with Stunning Views!39 Kamaka Crescent, Bridge HillWelcome to this well appointed residence at 39 Kamaka Crescent, nestled in the picturesque locale of Bridge Hill. This delightful property presents a wonderful opportunity for families, couples, or anyone looking for a peaceful yet vibrant community to call home. With its elevated position, stunning views, and proximity to local amenities, this home seamlessly blends comfort and convenience. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Peter Hishon and Dee Labes.Springvale Rural Charm16 Waipuna Road, SpringvaleNestled in the peaceful Springvale countryside, this charming and versatile family home offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and rural charm. Ideal for families, lifestyle seekers, or equestrian enthusiasts, 16 Waipuna Road presents an exciting opportunity to embrace the best of Central Otago living. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Stacey Waldron and Rebecca Ireland.Private Waterway Delight16 Briar Crescent, AlexandraWelcome to 16 Briar Crescent, Alexandra. Perfectly positioned on 830 m2 (approx.). A well-appointed home awaits the next new owners, on offer are four bedrooms, a master bedroom with ensuite and walk-in wardrobe with the separation of the living/dining and kitchen leading you to the three bedrooms. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Fiona Cooper.Charming 2-Bed Home in Prime Alexandra Location!24 Bringans Street, AlexandraWelcome to 24 Bringans Street, a charming residence nestled in the heart of Alexandra. This delightful two-bedroom home has been thoughtfully updated to create a sanctuary that perfectly blends modern living with timeless appeal. Whether you are a first-time buyer, a downsizer, or looking for a solid investment in a popular area, this property is sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Stacey Waldron and Rebecca Ireland.Want to see more? click here to view all of Tall Poppy’s current listings.

Daisy’s dating diary: Old flame reignites
Daisy’s dating diary: Old flame reignites

12 July 2025, 5:45 PM

You all must be wondering what happened to Daisy’s Dating Diary?Well, everyone loves a good love story, so listen up.Do you remember when I mentioned seeing an old flame from 25 years ago on a dating app and swiping left to say hello?That was about three to four months ago. When he didn’t match with me I got the huff and took down my profile. It was like my past was catching up with me and this dating game was getting all too hard.But then one cold, horrible, inversion layer Saturday evening I gave it another shot. Reworked my profile and got back on the horse.Well, lo and behold, there he was again. Surely this time he’ll at least be polite and match with me, even just to say a quick hello?Jackpot! Yep he did. So why now and not four months ago I asked him?… Apparently he did match with me and even left me a big message but I had already left the site and completely missed it. Hmmm. Not sure if I totally believe that, but anyway, I gave him the benefit of the doubt.So after chatting online for hours and hours (we had 25 years to catch up on remember), he agreed to drive from Dunedin on one of those horrible inversion layer days to take me out for lunch.Green flag right there. Full points for effort. We spent the best part of the afternoon by the fire talking about old times, and all of the time in between. Married in the past? Nope. Any kids? Nope. No baggage is always a bonus. And the best part was that it felt like no time had passed at all, and we were able to carry on right where we left off.He said it was like finding an old shoe behind the couch and slipping it back on. Old shoe? Okay I’ll take it, considering I’m no spring chicken.So definitely still a connection after all of this time and definitely somebody I am excited about seeing. The only problem is we live in different towns and I have children. So I had to explain that while I had my life and he had his, we would have to find a way to create a ‘third’ world in the middle - while we were getting familiar with each other again.So that’s where I am at right now. Which means no more dating diaries because that would hardly be fair would it?Tune in next time when I reveal what happens next. Will we manage to make this new relationship work? I call him my recycled boyfriend, but not sure he’s liking that much.

Supermarket loyalty card cyberattack prompts password warning
Supermarket loyalty card cyberattack prompts password warning

12 July 2025, 4:15 PM

A cybersecurity attack has prompted a warning for supermarket customers to change their passwords and some accounts may have been accessed by outsiders.Members of supermarket loyalty and online shopping programme New World Clubcard received an email on Friday night, telling them scammers had attempted to gain access to accounts by trying commonly used passwords.A "recent" cybersecurity incident had affected "a number of New World Clubcard accounts", the email said."Our technology team has identified suspicious external activity where scammers have attempted to gain access to accounts by trying commonly used passwords across many usernames," thesupermarket said."Based on our investigation, it appears that some New World Clubcard accounts with weaker or reused passwords may have been accessed, without the cardholder's authorisation."Protecting yourself after a data breach: What you need to knowPhoto: SuppliedMost customers were told their account had not been affected, but the supermarket advised them to change their passwords to be safe.In the email, New World said its own systems had not been breached and its technology team was monitoring for "any further malicious activity".The supermarket retailer, which is owned by parent company Foodstuffs, said it was working with cybersecurity experts to ensure customers' data remained secure."We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience. Your privacy and security are extremely important to us, we have taken these actions to protect you, and strongly recommend you [establish] a refreshed and strong password."Foodstuffs did not respond to RNZ's requests for comment.

Blossy Fest declined licence because not selling booze
Blossy Fest declined licence because not selling booze

11 July 2025, 6:00 PM

Vodka jelly shots sold at the Alexandra Blossom Festival (ABF) in 2024 by a vendor who had no understanding of their liquor licence was one of the reasons why the committee was applying for a special licence.But the Central Otago District Licensing Committee initially declined the special licence because the festival committee wasn’t selling the alcohol.As a result, a hearing was held yesterday (Friday July 11), by the licensing committee for the festival committee to contest its on-site licence for the Saturday in the park event.The committee was told in 2024 that individual vendors were now required to obtain their own onsite licences, but that meant organisers had no control over who was selling what and where.In 2024, one vendor advertised on Facebook that they were selling vodka jelly shots at the event—“an activity we would never approve of”, the committee said in its report to the hearing.Police officers in attendance were also unaware of the vendor’s licence conditions, and the licensee themselves had no clear understanding of their obligations. “The sale of jelly shots was only halted when we informed the licensee they could be removed from the event if they did not comply. This situation was unsatisfactory for both the organisers and the licensee.”“We are still unclear as to why control over alcohol sales at our own event was removed, which is why we are submitting this application.”The licensing committee said that in order to comply with the requirements, a licensee must be directly involved in the sale and supply of alcohol - a requirement that changed in 2024.Every other year between 2013 and up until 2024 the committee was granted a special licence, and supporting evidence from Alexandra Police said the event had been well run with very few issues.Read more: Blossom Festival to contest special liquor licence Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

‘Souperheroes’ making a difference
‘Souperheroes’ making a difference

11 July 2025, 5:45 PM

KiwiHarvest’s 'Souperheroes' campaign has provided over a tonne of soup, stews, and curries to charities in Queenstown Lakes - including in Cromwell and Alexandra - since launching in May. The food charity collects surplus food and delivers it to those in need, and ‘Souperheros’ started as a small side initiative, KiwiHarvest Queenstown Lakes branch manager Gary Hough says.“What began as a simple idea - aligned with KiwiHarvest’s mission to reduce food waste and support those in need - has grown into something that fills me with pride and hope.”Gary said KiwiHarvest started by collaborating with students from Queenstown's Liger Leadership Academy, working together to find a new way to feed people facing tough times.It soon expanded into a district-wide mission, with primary schools collecting surplus containers (like ice cream tubs and yoghurt pots) and teaming up with chefs at hotels and restaurants to turn excess food into a stockpile of frozen soups, stews, and curries.“The ‘Souperheroes’ campaign has exceeded expectations with over one tonne of food contributed,” Gary said.Souperheroes now delivers these meals to 13 charities.“Over 550 kilograms of nutritious, heartwarming soups and stews have been prepared, with local chefs transforming excess produce from KiwiHarvest and local kitchens into comforting winter meals,” Gary said.“In addition, we’ve received over 450 kilos of canned soups and stews that have generously been donated by our community…”On the back of the success of ‘Souperheroes’, Kiwiharvest has launched its major fundraiser of the year, ‘Cruise for a Cause’: an overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound with RealNZ.“We have come along with local grant support etc in the last couple of years but [we are] still operationally in a deficit of around $20K for the next two years,” Gary said.“This event we hope will help to bridge that gap for next year and make our operation more secure and sustainable, which has a massive ripple effect for the community.”Find out more about the Doubtful Sound cruise here and more about KiwiHarvest here. Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

Samsung is looking into more AI devices - potentially including earrings and necklaces
Samsung is looking into more AI devices - potentially including earrings and necklaces

11 July 2025, 4:21 PM

Samsung is looking into new wearable devices, potentially including earrings and necklaces, amid an industry-wide push to develop new types of AI-powered consumer electronics.AI could enable a new wave of devices that allow users to communicate and get things done more quickly without having to take out a phone, Won-joon Choi, chief operating officer for Samsung's mobile experience division, told CNN this week.For Samsung, these types of new devices could be something you wear around your neck, dangle from your ears or slip on your finger."We believe it should be wearable, something that you shouldn't carry, (that) you don't need to carry," he said. "So it could be something that you wear, glasses, earrings, watches, rings and sometimes (a) necklace."Choi's comments underscore the opportunity tech giants see to develop new hardware products around AI, a technology that some say is expected to be as impactful as the internet itself.AI services like OpenAI's ChatGPT and Google's Gemini have moved beyond basic text prompts and are getting better at handling complex tasks. That's led tech giants to look into devices that require less manual input than smartphones, which largely require typing and swiping on screens.That search is already in full swing, starting with smart glasses. Meta has touted its AI-powered Ray-Ban smart glasses, of which 2 million have been sold since 2023, as a success. The Facebook parent also recently acquired a minority stake in Ray-Ban parent company EssilorLuxottica, according to Bloomberg, further indicating the company's interest in AI-powered wearable gadgets.Samsung, Google and Snap are also developing smart glasses, while OpenAI and ex-Apple designer Jony Ive are collaborating on a mysterious new AI device for next year.When CNN asked Choi whether Samsung is actively looking into developing earrings or other smart jewelry, like a pendant or bracelet, Choi said the company is "looking at all kinds of possibilities"."What do you wear? Glasses, earrings… necklaces, watches and rings, something like those," he said.However, that doesn't mean those possibilities will become products. Samsung and other tech companies routinely develop prototypes and evaluate new technologies internally without bringing them to market.Some tech startups have already unsuccessfully tried to develop new AI gadgets to replace smartphones at certain tasks.The Humane AI Pin, created by a pair of Apple veterans, flopped because of its high price and buggy performance. The company shut down the product and sold parts of itself to computing giant HP in February. Another device called the Rabbit R1 also launched to a lackluster reception last year, although it's undergone significant updates since then. And a startup called Friend created an AI necklace that's meant to be a digital companion, although its launch has been delayed until the third quarter of this year.Samsung's approach, unlike some of these options, will involve a device that's a companion to your phone rather than a standalone product, similar to the company's smartwatches, according to Choi.And the company's upcoming smart glasses, which it hasn't revealed many details about yet, could be just the start."We are actively working on glasses, but some people do not want to wear glasses because they change their look," he said. "So we are also exploring other types of devices."- CNN

Figures readjusted for water model
Figures readjusted for water model

10 July 2025, 6:00 PM

Despite the Southern Water Done Well model shrinking by the day, Central Otago District Council (CODC) is still pushing ahead with its jointly-owned Council Controlled Organisation (CCO) with remaining district councils Clutha and Gore.Timaru pulled out of the deal first in March and then just this week Waitaki, but at council’s meeting yesterday (Thursday July 10) councillors agreed to forge ahead with their plan to share the water services delivery model with their southern neighbours.That was in line with the majority of Central Otago submitters - 47.5 percent agreed the joint CCO model was best, out of 303 submissions.The joint CCO is subject to further analysis prior to adoption of a Water Services Delivery Plan that has to be submitted to the Department of Internal Affairs by September 3.CODC also requested staff to provide further analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of the jointly owned CCO model with an anticipated three councils.CEO Peter Kelly said while four councils in the CCO was better than three, three councils was also better than just two, but one council standing alone with an in-house business unit was not an option.He told the meeting council would have had to go to the bank and borrow $216M to make the in-house business unit work, when they are already $50M in debt.“And we’re forecasting over the next seven years in the LTP to spend $247M just in water alone.”Clutha District Council also met yesterday to also decide on its water services delivery model, while Gore District Council would decide on Monday (July 14).CODC mayor Tamah Alley said she understood about 70 percent of councils around the country are in some form of joint CCO.Given that Waitaki had now pulled out of the Southern Water Done Well deal, she said it made sense to have another set of eyes to look over the figures before a final decision is made.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

Reporting ‘priority pests’ 
Reporting ‘priority pests’ 

10 July 2025, 5:45 PM

Have you seen a rook? What about Mediterranean fanworm? Or an Asian Paddle Crab?Otago Regional Council (ORC) wants residents to report sightings priority pests - and now there’s a new way to do it that makes sure all the right information lands directly in the ORC biosecurity team’s inbox. The new online ‘report pests’ form is a quick way to alert the biosecurity team to priority pests or any potential biosecurity threats in the Otago region, ORC biosecurity team leader Robert Win said.“Priority pests are a significant environmental concern that have either not yet established, or not widely established and have the potential to cause substantial harm, such as Moth plant or the Freshwater Gold Clam,” he said. The form, which can be found on the ORC website, collects pest sighting details, precise location data, and other information for the biosecurity team to investigate.   People can still use ORC’s 0800 number (0800 474 082) to report pests, but ORC is encouraging people to instead use the form - which lets people upload photos and pin the exact location of the sighting - as it is more detailed and efficient.“Citizen science is a valuable way the public can help protect Otago’s environment,” Robert said. “Otago is home to many threatened and taonga species.” “We can help to protect these and the region’s wider indigenous biodiversity if we all work together, especially if Biosecurity staff have timely information on pest sightings and exact locations.”Priority pests in Otago include African feather grass, African love grass, Asian paddle crab, Chilean needle grass, Horsetail reed, Lagarosiphon, Spartina and many more.Find the new pest reporting form here, as well as more information on priority pests, here.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

Former Prime Minister Dame Jacinda Ardern to give evidence to Covid response Inquiry
Former Prime Minister Dame Jacinda Ardern to give evidence to Covid response Inquiry

09 July 2025, 9:00 PM

Former Prime Minister Dame Jacinda Ardern will provide evidence to the Royal Commission investigating New Zealand's Covid-19 pandemic response.The inquiry is looking into the government's response to the pandemic and its effects.This week's hearings have concentrated on the impact of the extended lockdown in Auckland and Northland in 2021 and on vaccine mandates and safety.RNZ previously reported that the commission had requested Ardern to give evidence at a public hearing in August.But the commission said no decisions had been made about who would appear."The witness list is still under consideration, and it is not appropriate to make further comment about it at this stage," they said in a written statement."The Inquiry will share the witness list and more information about the planned August public hearing in due course."A spokesperson for Ardern said she will provide evidence to assist the commission meet its terms of reference and are in discussions about the best way for that to happen.She provided testimony to the first phase of the Inquiry, the spokesperson said."She is also happy for the commission to access her previous testimony," the spokesperson said.The first phase was conducted behind closed doors with conclusions and recommendations made public afterwards.The impact of the extended lockdown in Auckland and Northland in 2021 has been the main topic of discussion at this week's hearings.On Tuesday, Dr Antje Deckert told the Inquiry that 63,000 lockdown breaches were reported to police by citizens during levels 4, 3 and 2.Police road stops were also counterproductive because officers were often unclear on how to enforce lockdown rules, she said.Deckert said people found it difficult balancing government messaging of being kind while also enforcing lockdown rules.Representatives from the disabled community have revealed they were often a target of abuse during lockdowns.A Pasifika health expert said the Pacific population was over-represented in all aspects of the pandemic.Auckland Council disability advisory group co-chair Barry De Geest said because disabled people were often mask or vaccine exempt, it led to cases of discrimination."The number of people we had crying because they'd been uptown or done something and they were being abused by people saying you know 'put your mask on', you know 'think of us', you know sothere was so much of that."

NZ First MPs connect with orchardists 
NZ First MPs connect with orchardists 

09 July 2025, 6:00 PM

A gathering of just 11 people attended a public meeting in the Earnscleugh Hall this week to hear New Zealand First List MPs Jamie Arbuckle and Andy Foster speak about their coalition achievements.Jamie also hopped on an e-bike (thanks to Tourism Central Otago), on a cold four degrees day, and went for a quick ride down the Roxburgh Gorge Trail.The reason for the Earnscleugh location was also to connect with local orchardists. Jamie is a grower in Marlborough and a strong advocate for the horticulture industry.“It’s all about getting out in the grass roots of our communities,” he said.With six portfolios including deputy chair of the Justice Committee, Jamie, the ‘party whip’, is also responsible for organising the New Zealand First party caucus. He also spent five terms on the Marlborough District Council.He was interested in hearing about the challenges for local growers and what the government’s target of doubling exports would mean for the horticulture industry.Jamie said he believed the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme needs to be more streamlined and improved, as does market accessibility, and said he understood the frustrations of pricing between corporate versus family growers.New Zealand currently has 190,000 job seekers and - like Prime Minister Christopher Luxon - Jamie was all about encouraging participation in the growth of the economy.But in the horticulture industry where a lot of the work was physical, there was still the risk of growers having to be babysitters, which was a challenge, he said.Andy is the former mayor of Wellington and spent two years as a city councillor. He explained that New Zealand First was the only party where all the MPs were list MPs.He chairs the Transport and Infrastructure Committee, and his other portfolios include housing, conservation, education and civil defence.“I’ve always been interested in economic development… we need to get the economy moving.”The pair also visited Timaru before heading south to Alexandra.

That new asset tax break? Here’s what it really means for your business (sponsored)
That new asset tax break? Here’s what it really means for your business (sponsored)

09 July 2025, 5:00 PM

With effect from 22 May 2025, the Government launched a new tax incentive called Investment Boost. It made headlines at the time, but as is often the case with policy changes, the initial noise dies down and life goes on.Now that things have settled a bit, it’s a good time to take a second look, to check in re whether it’s something that fits into your business strategy.So, what is Investment Boost?In simple terms, if you buy an eligible asset, say a new piece of machinery, a vehicle, or some tech equipment, you can immediately deduct 20% of its cost from your taxable income, on top of the usual depreciation you’d claim.That means a lower tax bill in the year you make the purchase, which sounds like a win. The Government says this is about encouraging growth and boosting productivity and for some businesses, it could do just that.But here’s the thing...This is about cash flow, not just taxA lower tax bill can be helpful, sure. But it doesn’t magically make a new purchase affordable.Let’s say you want to spend $10,000 on new equipment. With Investment Boost, you are allowed $2000 extra depreciation on that spend, plus you are allowed the normal depreciation on the remaining $8000 portion, so let’s say another $2,400 for example at a 30% rate. But remember, that’s not money in your pocket. It results in a reduction in cash income tax payable of say $1200- $1700 depending on your circumstances. The net effect of $10,000 less reduced cash tax payable $1200- $1700, is an after tax cost of around $8,300 - $8800 on that $10,000. Another thing to remember, is an income tax benefit now, will impact your March 2026 year income tax to pay, so there is a time lag for the associated tax payments to roll around.So a key question becomes; Is this something you were planning to buy anyway? Or are you buying it mostly because there’s a tax break attached? Don’t overcommit because the numbers “look good”If a new asset genuinely moves your business forward, you both need and can afford it, then this incentive is a win and more power to it. That said, we’ve also seen businesses trip up by chasing tax perks without thinking about the longer-term impact on their cash flow.Consider whether you would be stretching your budget now, and whether that would mean you're struggling to pay suppliers, hire staff, or weather a quiet month later. Sometimes the tax saving might come at too high a cost. Knowing your future cash flow projections is crucial for your decision making.It’s not a one-size-fits-all opportunitySome businesses are in growth mode and/or still have solid cash flow. Others are still rebuilding after a tough few COVID years. For some, this tax break will exactly what is needed for their pre-existing plans. For others, it could create stressful cash flow 10-12 weeks down the track. This is why understanding your specific business context, matters.So, what should you do?We always say, before you make any big spending decisions, especially off the back of new tax policy, have a chat with your accountant or adviser. Not just to crunch the numbers, but to talk about your goals, your cash flow, and the timing of any major investments.Even if you’ve already bought something and you’re wondering how this change affects you, it’s still worth checking in.The bottom line:Investment Boost is a useful tool, and is better than having no stimulus, but it’s not a magic fix. Like anything in business, the value lies in how and when you apply the changes. So now that the noise has died down, let’s sit down, look at the big picture, and figure out if this is the right time, and the right move, for you. Because good business isn’t just about saving on tax. It’s about making smart, sustainable decisions that keep your business moving forward, one step at a time. To achieve the type of life you want.Want some complimentary business or tax advice? Reach out to us for a no-obligation, no charge chat. Love to you, from Love to Grow

Central Beat - Weekly Police News
Central Beat - Weekly Police News

08 July 2025, 6:00 PM

Central Otago police have dealt with a range of driving offences this past week, as well as a fatal collision.A 42-year-old man has been spoken to in relation to a disorder incident at a Cromwell hotel on June 28. He has been summoned to appear in the Alexandra District Court later this month (July 23).“Enquiries are continuing for others that were involved in the altercation,” Sergeant Bruce Martin of the Alexandra Road Policing Group said. A 51-year-old man was stopped for drink driving with a breath alcohol level of 1391 mcg on Friday (July 4). The legal limit is 250 mcg. The man’s licence was suspended for 28 days and he is to appear in Queenstown District Court on July 18. An 18-year-old woman was apprehended travelling at 149kmph on State Highway 6 on Sunday (July 6). She was issued with a $630 fine and her driver licence suspended for 28 days. “Our stance on safety remains straightforward,” Sergeant Martin said.“Drivers need to be clear that if they are detected speeding or driving impaired by alcohol or drugs, they will be ticketed. “The best way to avoid being ticketed is not to speed, not to drive drunk or under the influence of drugs. It’s that simple.” Police attended a fatal motor vehicle collision on State Highway 8 at Dumbarton at approximately 11am on Friday (July 4). A 31-year-old man died as a result of injuries at the scene from a collision between a car and truck and trailer unit. The Police Serious Crash Unit attended with the road being closed for a number of hours. A diversion was put in place down the Teviot Valley.  “Enquiries into the crash are continuing,” Sergeant Martin said.He said icy roads are unforgiving, “especially here in the South where we deal with some of the most intense winter conditions in the country”. Four factors can lead to fatalities and serious injuries on our roads: restraints, impairment through alcohol and drugs, distractions, and speed. Police are urging drivers to make sure they are well-rested and take regular breaks, check their speed, and wear their seatbelts.“If you would like to take a look at the scenery, please pull over in a safe area or a designated rest stop,” Sergeant Martin said.Call 111 when you need an emergency response from police, fire or ambulance.Call 105 to report things that don’t need urgent police assistance.Call *555 to report road incidents that are urgent but not life-threatening.To make an anonymous crime report contact Crime Stoppers.

Southern mayors respond to withdrawal from water partnership
Southern mayors respond to withdrawal from water partnership

08 July 2025, 5:45 PM

The mayors of Central Otago, Gore and Clutha district council have issued a joint statement following Waitaki District Council’s withdrawal from the Southern Water Done Well partnership yesterday (Tuesday July 8).Waitaki voted to exit the Southern Water Done Well partnership and pursue instead an in-house water services delivery unit.“Today’s decision determines that our Water Services Delivery Plan will focus on an In-House Business Unit for the next two years at least, subject to the [Department of Internal Affairs] reviewing and approving the plan,” Waitaki District mayor Gary Kircher said.Waitaki’s reasons for this choice included feedback from the community; the fact the third piece of Local Water Done Well legislation, the Local Government (Water Services) Bill, has yet to be passed by Parliament; and a desire to retain local control.Waitaki also agreed to further discuss the future management of water, looking at various models adopted by other councils – including exploring the possibility of a future shared services/Joint Council Controlled Organisation approach with South Canterbury councils.Mayors Tamah Alley (pictured), Bryan Cadogan, and Ben Bell say councils need “to be mindful of whether alternative options comply with government regulations and expectations”. Photo: FileCentral Otago mayor Tamah Alley, Gore mayor Ben Bell, and Clutha mayor Bryan Cadogan issued a joint statement yesterday.“While acknowledging that councils must make decisions they feel are in the best interests of their communities, we believe a jointly owned Council Controlled Organisation remains the best option for water services delivery in the future.  “The government has been quite clear about its expectations for councils to work together to deliver Local Water Done Well legislation,” they said.“Southern Water Done Well meets those expectations and sets a strategic, long-term direction for delivering financially sustainable, efficient water services while retaining local control.”The three mayors said councils need to be "mindful of whether alternative options comply with government regulations and expectations”.CDC and CODC will both meet on Thursday (July 10) to decide each council’s water services delivery model, while Gore District Council’s meeting is on Monday (July 14).Revised reports based on Waitaki’s withdrawal from Southern Water Done Well will be presented at those meetings.Councils throughout New Zealand must submit a Water Services Delivery Plan (WSDP) to the Department of Internal Affairs by September 3. Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

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