Residents of Oturehua are disgruntled with an RNZ story about the town which ran earlier this week (Monday September 8). The story correctly says there are historic businesses for sale in the town, but what caused the pushback was the headline: ‘Most of Oturehua’s Main Street is on the Market’.It's not. Residents have pointed out there are three businesses for sale (the pub, the shop and the backpackers); the pub and the shop both have associated B&Bs, and the shop manages the mail run. Many residents live along the main street, and those homes are not for sale.Following the article’s publication, a local posted on the town’s community chat on Messenger: “…I’ve been inundated with [messages from] friends around the country pointing out our sale status – it’s either very flattering or a bit depressing I can’t decide which.” Another resident proposed the idea of a t-shirt: ‘We  Oturehua’One Oturehua resident said it's not just the natural beauty of the area that captivates people, it is also “a fiercely proud and vibrant community”, with plenty going on. In the past few months alone, the Oturehua Hall has hosted the Ida Valley Winter Art Show, a community-run lunch for car enthusiasts, and a potluck dinner to raise money for the Prostate Cancer Foundation. Over the same period a Not the Brass Monkey Rally was held, and the annual Duck Dinner was hosted at the pub [Oturehua Railway Hotel]. Add to this a Night Sky Tour and a Just Janie concert held at Inverlair Lodge, and coming soon there will be the Under Rough Ridge writers retreat, and the ROCK wellbeing/personal restoration retreat. Then there are groups for curling, cricket, mountain biking, meditation, and more.  The tight-knit community is also proud of the way people pitch in to help each other. Families who have farmed in the valley have been helping each other out for generations. If things need to get done, they get done.One resident told The Central App: "If you happen to buy one of the businesses that is for sale in Oturehua, you might just find that you have won the lotto for the best place to live in New Zealand."Residents say no-one put it better than the late Brian Turner, a former Oturehua resident, who wrote:‘Once in whileyou may come across a placewhere everythingseems as close to perfectionas you will ever need.’ Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

Last year’s ‘Cockies & Tradies Golf Tournament’ made $140,000 for Melanoma New Zealand and Dunstan Hospital, with the third event teeing off on October 3.When local plumber Chris Flannery was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic melanoma in 2019, he missed the social side of work and sport, and the tournament gave him some purpose.  He also wanted to turn his experience into a way to raise awareness of melanoma, and support others affected by the disease.Chris and his family will host the tournament at the Alexandra Golf Club, with free spot checks onsite as well.“It’s something positive that I hope makes a difference in our community,” he said.Chris grew up in a farming family in Central Otago and played representative rugby and cricket.Telling his kids he had cancer was something he’ll never forget, he said, “but we just had to keep going, no matter what.”Chris’s wife Nicola Jones said he caught up with the oncologist last week, and there had been no new tumours, so Chris was now off treatment. “Looks like the Ipi (Ipilimumab) did the job,” she said.Chris described his treatment (a combination of Keytruda and Ipilimumab, radiotherapy and surgery) as a game changer.A key part of his treatment has been the care he received at Dunstan Hospital, allowing him to undergo treatment locally, without the need for regular travel to larger centres. “Staying in Alexandra, driving myself to appointments, and maintaining some independence made a world of difference.”Proceeds from the October golf event will specifically help expand outreach in rural areas, and increase access to free skin checks and support services.The melanoma van will also be at Pioneer Park after 1pm on Friday October 3rd for anyone in the community to get any spots checked. Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

The Central App asked local body candidates for community boards about their community track record.When have you stood up for our community? What exactly did you do, who did you bring with you, and what changed as a result?Here’s how they responded:Cromwell Community Board candidates respond:There are ten candidates for four vacancies on the Cromwell Community Board.Mike Casey: “I have not yet stood up for my local community of Cromwell, but I have been fighting for New Zealanders for a better energy system. We are seeing tangible and quantifiable results from the work we are doing in terms of reducing barriers for customers to electrify, create and store their own electricity and to be paid fairly for their contribution. My electric cherry farm has become a national example of how we can significantly reduce energy costs for farms, businesses, and households and positively impact balance sheets. As a result, I have raised millions in philanthropic funding to help build our charity, Rewiring Aotearoa, and have seen a huge number of local community groups come to my farm to learn more.”Anna Harrison: “This is my ninth year as an elected member of the Cromwell Community Board. I believe that I have stood up for the Cromwell Community throughout that time in many ways. I strive to be a strong and steady representative that seeks to represent the Cromwell community and particularly to advocate for [a] Cromwell voice to be included in decision making about our town. I am particularly proud of the work last year alongside the CCB around the change to a district wide funding model for many council functions and subsequently to the delegations of the board. We brought the community along with us and stood up for making sure the board is kept at the forefront of Cromwell decision making. There is still work to do in this space as the impact of these changes come into effect over this next term. One of the major outcomes has been the development of the Cromwell Endowment Land Investment Strategy. This strategy will help guide the use of the proceeds of the sale and development of Endowment land. It will support decision making to ensure that proceeds are used for the benefit of the Cromwell community and that these benefits consider our current and future population.Wally Sanford: “Last year was the year for standing up for our community. Core duties as a board member were firstly understanding the districtisation proposal and the effect it was going to have on community boards and informing the public of what was happening throughout the process. Our board at the time worked really well together in forming a response to council through the appropriate channels. Prior to community board experience, I was involved with setting up the Pisa District Community Group as an incorporated society and was involved with Connect Cromwell, which was a DIA funded five-year community initiative. I've assisted with native planting days and lakeside clean ups, both organised and ad hoc, mountainbike track digging and wilding pine removal. I'm currently on the local Automobile Association District Council. In my role with Connect Cromwell I was involved with seed funding many community groups and initiatives including goal posts for Alpha St and Dustin Park, bike stands along the Lake Dunstan Cycle Trail, timing equipment for the BMX club and disc golf to name a few. I also constructed and installed the trig beacon at the highest point of the Lake Dunstan cycling and walking trail over covid and just prior to the trail opening.”Jane Smith:“My track record includes working for CODC as the information and records management lead (retiring at the end of July 2025). In this role I not only provided community members information from physical records in archives, administered official information requests, responded to general information requests, ensured personal and private information was collected, used, shared and managed appropriately, but also assisted residents with advice and/or references to other agencies regarding family histories. The records of our community’s history ‘tell our story’, including the early days of Chinese Miners, and ensuring information on Maori is retained as archival material. I worked alongside CODC staff to ensure our community information and records are accurate, preserved, protected, maintained and appropriately available. Promoting all of the above raised awareness of how important it is to document our history and maintain accurate and complete information.”Rebecca Anderson, Gerald Duncan, Gary Kirk, Haemia Melling, Travis Muir, and Bill Sanders did not respond.Vincent Community Board candidates respond:There are seven candidates for four vacancies on the Vincent Community Board.Roger Browne:“I have been pleased over the past six years to support Alexandra’s Central Stories museum. This includes ensuring their Vincent Community Board funding was maintained. This means the museum can stay open seven days a week. I have promoted collaboration between the council and Haehaeata Trust for planting projects on council reserves such as the Half Mile reserve.” Jayden Cromb: “In November 2024 a late report was presented to the board recommending the divestment of nearly all of council owned halls in the ward. As chair I facilitated a lengthy debate on the issue and the board came up with its own recommendations based on what it believed the community would accept. While all of those halls still ended up on the list for the Long Term Plan consultation, we still ended up with our recommendations being approved in the end. To achieve this I spent a considerable amount of time around the ward. Formal information evenings, a school, small committees, anyone I could find that wanted to be heard I met with them. By bringing the VCB members and community together we saved the Clyde town hall, railway station and museum. As well as the Ophir, Poolburn, and Becks halls. It was about bringing the community along on the journey to get the result they wanted. Another added benefit of proper engagement and public partnership was 46.8 percent of general submissions and 83 percent of youth submissions coming from this ward. It was a win for everyone involved.”Martin McPherson:“My work as a commissioner under the RMA with Plan change 19 decision making process. Future proofing growth in the wider region. Engaged with residents, property owners and developers. I continue to support our heritage sector and lobby for our museums and cultural vitality. Heritage sector and museum staff. Helped secure ongoing funding. Wilding Pines - the Half Mile. I wanted to see better engagement with the local residents and supported a staged approach to the development of this area. I failed but tried to engage with my fellow elected members to work alongside the residents. Not everything you do is successful but you try.”Karla Sanders“Since co-founding Sticks ‘n Stones in Central Otago in 2013, I’ve consistently advocated for young people to be genuinely involved in research, evaluation, and bullying prevention. That has meant working alongside them as co-researchers and presenters at national and international events, and advocating directly with government to ensure their voices were heard in shaping policy and practice. Through this work, I’ve also ensured that our community has received funding for programmes including mentoring, leadership, and opportunities for young people to develop and connect.Beyond this, I’ve contributed to a range of local committees and community groups here in Central Otago. Standing up for our community, for me, has always been about bringing people together, making sure those who are often overlooked are included, and pushing for decisions that reflect the real needs of our district.”Tony Hammington, Dai Johns, and Jim Moffitt did not respond.Maniototo Community Board candidates:There are seven candidates for four vacancies on the Maniototo Community Board, none of whom responded.Teviot Valley Community Board candidates respond:There are seven candidates for four vacancies on the Teviot Valley Community Board.Gill Booth: “I have a bit of history when it comes to standing up for the “underdog” and for standing up and speaking out against what is wrong. Before becoming a community board member I was involved, with others, in organising the two Groundswell protests in Alexandra. Result. No results.Myself and a friend organised a Central Otago District rural petition against 3 Waters. A verbal submission was presented to the CODC. Result. No Results. The 600 plus signatories were ignored and dismissed by council. The template submissions were classified as one submission.I was part of the organisation team for the Groundswell/TPU Southern ‘Stop 3 Waters’ campaign and was part of the team that collected two petitions, one requiring a full public meeting about 3 Waters, and the other to defund LGNZ. These were delivered to the mayor of the time. Result. No results. Hundreds of people were ignored and dismissed. Council wouldn’t hold a ratepayer/residents meeting and dismissed defunding LGNZ.After being elected for community board, I put out a series of information fliers into nearly every letter box in Teviot Valley. Two results. 1). I was publicly called out by the mayor and two other elected officials for spreading misinformation. Result. 2). Many people learned about the theft of 3 Waters, and the workings of LGNZ and LGFA. Good result. Solicited submissions about the proposed rates increase. Result. Submissions ignored, rates increased by up to 33 percent in Roxburgh and withdrawal of berm mowing. Was called “appalling” by the mayor of the time and censured by my board chairman. Standing up for the ratepayers of Roxburgh was not to be condoned.Solicited submissions against Districtisation which would be detrimental to our area. Result. Despite Teviot and Cromwell being overwhelmingly against Districtisation it went ahead anyway. Two communities were completely ignored. Presented a verbal submission to council about the LTP, which is detrimental to our area. Suggested 3 Waters be a referendum issue in this year’s local body elections, and spoke against the debt burden. Result. Nothing. When not one councillor stood up in outrage at the “get a reverse mortgage” suggestion by mayor [Tim] Cadogan, and the same deafening silence followed the interim mayor's statement about not being able to afford your rates in two years’ time, I realised that no-one is fighting for the residents and ratepayers of our area of Central Otago, so now is the time to make a stand against the tsunami of debt that is headed our way under the current regime at the head table.”Curtis Pannett:“I was fortunate to be appointed to the Teviot Valley Community Board in December 2024 to fill a vacancy. At my very first meeting, we were presented with a list of buildings the council was considering for divestment—one of which was the Millers Flat Hall.Having grown up in Millers Flat, I, along with many others in the community, was perplexed to see this hall on the list. It's a well-used facility—hosting events two to three times a week—and is widely recognised as a well-maintained and valued community asset. Its inclusion in the potential divestment list raised serious concerns. In response, I worked alongside my fellow community board members and the local hall committee to help prepare the strongest possible submission to council. Our goal was clear: to ensure the Millers Flat Hall continues to be recognised and maintained as a core community asset. As a result the hall was retained.”Becky Slade, Hayden Smith, Richard Tamblyn, Sue Cain, and Mark Jessop did not respond.

On Friday September 5, a 34-year-old Cromwell man was arrested in relation to breach of protection order and a trespass incident in Alexandra. He appeared in the Alexandra District Court on September 11.A 20-year-old Alexandra man was summonsed for theft after being apprehended for shoplifting from a local store. He is to appear in the Alexandra Court on October 9.An 18-year-old Cromwell man was involved in a single vehicle crash, where the vehicle he was driving has left the road and crashed into a commercial building at the intersection of Barry Avenue and McNulty Road. Both the vehicle and building sustained moderate damage in the crash. He was uninjured, but he returned a breath alcohol level of 1131 mcgs. His legal limit is zero. The man’s licence was suspended for 28 days, and he is to appear in the Alexandra District Court on October 9.Several other drivers were dealt with during the week for drink driving, with a 23-year-old Wānaka man returning a breath reading of 468 mcgs. He will appear in the Queenstown Court on September 22.Two other local drivers returned breath readings of 388 mcgs and 396 mcgs. Both were dealt with by way of a $200 infringement notice that carries 50 demerits points. The legal limit for a driver over 20 years of age is 250 mcgs and under.Our stance on safety remains straightforward. Drivers need to be under no illusion that if they are detected driving impaired by alcohol or drugs, they will be held to account for their actions.Police are concerned with a number of serious crashes that have occurred in the area over recent weeks, with a three-vehicle crash in the Cardrona Valley, and another two-vehicle crash at the SH8 and 8B intersection. Both crashes left people with serious injuries and enquiries are ongoing with both cases.Police are continuing to issue infringement notices throughout the area for speed, unsafe passing manoeuvres, use of cell phones and people not wearing their seat belts.Police know these factors can lead to fatalities and serious injuries on our roads.Police are urging drivers to make sure they are well-rested and take regular breaks, not to drive impaired, check their speed, and wear their seatbelts.Police have also received numerous complaints around vehicles driving around the Alexandra township late at night with their stereos operating loudly, which has been disturbing local residents.Police will be addressing this anti-social behaviour, and drivers could expect a fine of up to $600, demerit points or both.If you see unsafe driving behaviour, or someone is in immediate danger, call 111 as soon as possible.Report non-emergencies or historic matters through 105 or via the Police website.

The Roxburgh Pioneer Brass Band was grateful for its $2,000 operating grant from the Teviot Valley Community Board (TVCB) this week, and secured the same amount for next year too.One of the only country bands left in New Zealand, the Pioneer Brass Band has been established in the valley since 1884, but was now “struggling” without its Roxburgh Entertainment Centre as a base.Member Doug Dance told the TVCB not being able to hold any regional or national events due to lack of facilities would affect the group of 18, “but we’re going to keep going and keep blowing as long as we can”, he said.In recent years the band performed at various ANZAC day celebrations across Central Otago, and one member played The Last Post in Wellington last year.Doug said the entertainment centre had been described as one of the best playing halls in New Zealand, because of the “absolutely outstanding acoustics”.Only three community grant applications totalling $10,000 out of an estimated $23,575 were received for the Teviot Valley Grants Reserve.A new community arts collective called On The Rox was successful at receiving $5,000, which it will use to secure a commercial lease in Roxburgh.Fay Kennedy addressed the community board with the group’s plans, which she said had taken five years to develop.She said the Teviot Valley had a wealth of artistic talent but until now there had been no available facility in the town from which to operate from.“The catalyst was the availability of the building on Scotland Street.”The collective already had 18 signed members committed to monthly memberships to cover the cost of renting the space, and a team of support people to help run the shop.Artists would be selling homewares, recycled clothing creations, jewellery, screen printing, mixed media and even bird houses.Fay said they also wanted to run educational workshops for both children and adults, and had applied for funding through Creative NZ.Puna Rangatahi (Alexandra Youth Group) received $2,500 for expenses associated with using the Scout Hall building - and was also successful at gaining a multi-year grant (2025/26 and 2026/7).Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

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.Lifestyle, Location, and Space All in One!21 Hosking Drive, CromwellPositioned on one of Cromwell’s most popular streets, this five-bedroom home is on the market for the very first time. Vacant and ready for new owners, it offers space, comfort, and the chance to add your own personal touch. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Kate Andrew.Light, Space & Comfort - Your Perfect...1 Quail Close, AlexandraWelcome to 1 Quail Close, a stunning property nestled in the heart of the sought-after neighbourhood of Alexandra. This charming home offers an exceptional blend of style, comfort, and convenience, making it the perfect sanctuary for families and individuals alike. Tucked away in a prestigious cul de sac, known for winning the "Best Cul de Sac Award," this residence promises a peaceful lifestyle whilst being in close proximity to local amenities, schools, and recreational opportunities.Click here for more information or to contact the agent Fiona Cooper.Move in and Enjoy10A Lanes Road, AlexandraWelcome to 10A Lanes Road, an appealing home nestled in the highly sought-after Bridge Hill area. The hard works been done, with new fencing, landscaping, interior painting & flooring giving our new purchasers little to be done after moving in. The property has a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, making it an ideal retreat for first home buyers, couples, or individuals seeking a serene yet friendly neighbourhood lifestyle. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Peter Hishon and Dee Labes.Your Next Chapter Starts Here57A Wishart Crescent, CromwellSet in one of Cromwell's most popular pockets, 57A Wishart Crescent is a home that instantly feels like the right choice. Whether you're stepping onto the property ladder, looking for a smart investment, or searching for a lock-and-leave holiday base, this property delivers the perfect blend of style, comfort, and Central Otago lifestyle at a great price. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Niki Lord and Keeley Anderson.A first home buyers dream!4 Orpine Court, CromwellSituated in a peaceful Cromwell cul-de-sac, this modernised home offers space, style, and security on one of the larger fenced sections in the neighbourhood. With a generous floor plan, thoughtful updates, and the practicality of a separate single garage plus ample off-street parking, it’s a property that combines comfort with convenience in a location families and professionals love. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Niki Lord and Keeley Anderson.Perfect Summer Bach in Clyde70 Newcastle Street, ClydeWelcome to 70 Newcastle Street, Clyde – a 170m2 home that offers boundless potential. Nestled in an elevated and welcoming neighbourhood, this property presents an enticing opportunity for families, couples, or anyone seeking a slice of tranquil living while remaining conveniently close to essential amenities. With its original 1980s design and a host of inviting features, this residence is ready for the next chapter. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Peter Hishon and Dee Labes.Opportunity Knocks on Horace Street43 Horace Street, CromwellCalling all DIYers, renovators, first-home buyers, and developers – this property is brimming with potential. Set on a generous 840m² (approx.) section in a sought-after central Cromwell location, you’ll love being just moments from Cromwell Primary, Lake Dunstan, and the historic Heritage Precinct. The town’s famed wineries, Highlands Motorsport Park, and scenic cycleways are all close by, with Queenstown and Wānaka within easy commuting distance. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Niki Lord and Keeley Anderson.Comfort and Convenience16 Henderson Drive, AlexandraPositioned on a desirable corner section, this immaculately presented 2010 brick home offers space, sun, and thoughtful design throughout. Built with quality and comfort in mind, this wheelchair-friendly home features wider-than-usual hallways, doors, and an internal access double garage with added width and the convenience of a built-in laundry. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Peter Hishon and Dee Labes.Urgent Sale – A Must View!26 Matthews Crescent, CromwellThe vendors have secured their next home and are on the move, pricing this property well below what it has cost them. Without doubt, this is the best-priced water view home in Cromwell – a genuine opportunity for buyers seeking exceptional value in a prime location. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Niki Lord and Keeley Anderson.A Smart Buy in the Heart of Cromwell18 Blyth Street, CromwellOur latest listing will fill the demand from first home buyers, investors, and those seeking a lock-and-leave holiday base, wanting to combine affordability with comfort, convenience, and a superb Cromwell location! Set in a quiet street just moments from the lake, the Heritage Precinct, cycleways, and local shops, you’ll enjoy the very best of Central Otago living right on your doorstep. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Niki Lord and Keeley Anderson.Relocation Creates Opportunity!22A Orchard Place, CromwellDiscover easy living in this solid unit, low-maintenance two-bedroom home, ideally positioned in a quiet cul-de-sac close to the park, local amenities, and Cromwell town centre.The open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area is enhanced by a heat pump and two light tunnels, filling the space with natural light and creating a warm, welcoming feel. Recent upgrades to the quality flooring, along with sunscreen blinds and venetians, further elevate the home’s presentation. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Kate Andrew.Want to see more? click here to view all of Tall Poppy’s current listings.

A Queenstown landlord who crammed tenants into partitioned rooms, garages, caravans and a bus has been ordered to pay $81,050 on behalf of 117 tenants.Conrad Joseph Lawrence Goodger and his companies Rent Ezi and Nice View Limited ran eight boarding houses - four of them unlawful and overcrowded, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment said.The ministry began investigating after complaints from tenants and a fire at one of his properties.Photo: MBIEDespite site visits, an interview and a formal warning from its Tenancy Compliance and Investigations Team (TCIT), the Ministry said Goodger's properties remained non-compliant with the Residential Tenancies Act."All the properties were overcrowded and operating as boarding houses, with many tenants unsure of the number of occupants and their names. Several of the rooms were notably cramped. One tenant described their space as having a sloped ceiling that made it hard to stand upright, while another was sharing a single room with four others," the ministry said.Photo: MBIEThe TCIT referred Goodger to the Tenancy Tribunal last year, which found the accommodation often lacked proper fire safety, ventilation, or sanitation.It found numerous tenancy agreements were missing key information, while others included unlawful clauses that undermined tenants' rights.Despite Goodger claiming TCIT's investigations were a "fishing expedition" aimed at putting him to out of business, the tribunal's adjudicator, Kate Lash, found there was "no evidence that TCIT were targeting Mr Goodger and trying to identify an issue upon which they could prosecute".Photo: MBIEGoodger and his companies were ordered to pay $53,600 for breaches of building, health, and safety requirements; $15,250 for unlawful tenancy agreement clauses; and $12,200 for failing to include mandatory information in tenancy agreements.They were also issued with a restraining order - prohibiting further breaches of those obligations for three years.Published by Permission

The Central App asked local body candidates about their community track record.When have you stood up for our community? What exactly did you do, who did you bring with you, and what changed as a result?Here’s how they responded:Central Otago District Council mayoral candidates respond:Tamah Alley: “Worked to secure a long-term water solution through a joint Council Controlled Organisation — ensuring safe, compliant services for future generations. Supported council’s participation in CouncilMARK/Te Korowai, an independent benchmarking tool that drives accountability, transparency, and service excellence.Led the biggest-ever engagement campaign for the Long Term Plan, resulting in the highest number of community submissions on record.On the board of Southern Lakes Trails Trust, building future cycle connections from Cromwell to the Wakatipu Basin and Wānaka, and finally ‘closing the gap’ to Roxburgh.Brought Central Otago to the table with central government as part of the only three-council Regional Deal proposal in New Zealand.I’m proud to say I’ve brought the whole council along on this journey. Over the past 12 months, our decision-making has been built on consensus. One of my key focuses for the last election was increasing community engagement, and I’ve delivered on this — making council more accessible day-to-day across new platforms and reaching demographics that had been underrepresented in the past. I've also ensured Central Otago has a strong voice nationally — from developers to government agencies to national media, we're recognised for making a big impact despite our smaller population. Central Otago is on the map — and in charge of our future. We’re keeping decisions local, from a fairer water solution to strong partnerships with businesses, health, and government. These relationships mean our community is shaped by us, not outsiders. We put people first: protecting what we love, planning for what we need.”Mark Quinn: “Since 2023 I have been travelling NZ with Challenging Councils enlightening all walks of life in the direction and the roles that the councils have become. Much to our forefathers having established councils for the people. Today councils are no longer managing councils in the way that they were set up. Our core services and infrastructure are in seriously poor shape. Water, sewer, rubbish bins, berms, country roads, are seriously neglected, and the huge income from rates and loans are gone to fluffy, feel good, woeful projects instead.Challenging Councils today has followers in all parts of NZ now standing up and going for council. It is a successful educational tool, and will only get stronger as more people learn we pay the council's wages but they are working for Local Government. Councils are now moving away from this LG demanding wasteful status. Auckland, Christchurch the biggest to leave. Smaller councils have also left Local Government. We should too.”Charlie Sanders did not respond. Candidates for the Cromwell Ward respond:There are nine candidates for four vacancies in the Cromwell Ward.Sarah Browne: “I pride myself on being a real community champion for Cromwell. In my role as a councillor for the Cromwell ward in the current triennium, my most notable example was the vote for or against districtising services and facilities. I engaged with the community to get their feeling and I went to the table to bring those points forward. When it came to the vote (which I unfortunately lost) I was one of the two councillors who voted against this (the other being another Cromwell councillor Cheryl Laws). The whole Cromwell community board worked together to make a submission and support our people’s voice and I believe it was a good measure for our community that we really do ‘have their backs’.”Stephen Carruth:“My family and I have spent a considerable period living and (me) working in the major-project construction industry in Australia (before returning relatively recently to live in Central Otago permanently). Before we left Central Otago in 2004, the Cromwell Community Board proposed a land-swap deal that would have seen a Wānaka-based developer create a housing estate right along the top of the 'Sugarloaf’ (the long land-form adjacent to Lowburn). The Sugarloaf is the best example, cited by the NZ Geological Society, of fluvio glacial outwash terraces in the whole of New Zealand. Council had not invested time or energy in protecting that significant landscape.The proposed development was contrary to the Amended Proposed Central Otago District Plan when the Community Board initiated the land swap deal with the developer. As a member of the Lowburn Action Group, we opposed this development and fought hard to undo the Community Board's decision to undertake the land-swap deal. My specific role within the Lowburn Action Group was as group spokesperson. We generated a significant amount of local support for our stand. The disputed development application ultimately went before a panel of independent commissioners (to determine whether a resource consent would be granted). The independent commissioners decided unanimously to reject the application in favor of protecting this important natural landscape.”Dave George: “In Cromwell ward I was concerned about the scoping and layout for the new hall complex. I felt the museum would be better aligned with Old Cromwell. I made an appeal through the ombudsman, to ensure that council began to consult with the wider community. As a ratepayer of nearly five decades I was disappointed with the response from council. There was little or no consultation with the wider community. As a result we have a budget blow-out of $1.6M a year, for the first two years. This obviously will change with measures taken. But we must consider whether council can trade its way out of difficulties.”Cheryl Laws: “I stood against the district wide funding model (districtisation). The council is an organisation that is completely dependent upon information provided by staff in making policy decisions. On the issue of stripping Cromwell’s assets from the Cromwell Community Board and transferring them to the wider interests of the Central Otago district, I was resolutely opposed. I appreciate the community support for my stance, but we were out voted around the council table. That vote taught me a lesson and that is that sometimes this council doesn’t appreciate that Cromwell is the driver of economic activity in our district. Standing up for, and advocating for the best interests of the Cromwell community, will continue to be my priority.”Bob Scott: “During the four years I have served on the Cromwell Community Board, I have been involved with many community groups. Most notably, I have been the liaison between the Community Board and the Cromwell and Districts Promotions Group who famously organise the Light Up Winter event along with many others. I was also instrumental in finding a new home for the toy library after their previous home at the Memorial Hall was no longer available. I campaigned for the pedestrian crossing in Waenga Drive to be installed ahead of schedule to assist the residents of the Golden View retirement home to safely access the town, Anderson Park, and the medical centre. I managed with others to secure the long-term future of the Cromwell Golf Club on its existing course in the centre of town. I am very proud of my achievements as an elected representative of this community, particularly in securing with fellow board members the proceeds of the sale of endowment land for the benefit of the people of Cromwell.”Terry Davis, Andrew Burns, Gareth Noble, and Charlie Sanders did not respond.Vincent Ward candidates respond:There are 11 candidates for four vacancies in the Vincent Ward.Gill Booth:“I have a bit of history when it comes to standing up for the “underdog” and for standing up and speaking out against what is wrong. Before becoming a community board member I was involved, with others, in organising the two Groundswell protests in Alexandra. Result. No results. Myself and a friend organised a Central Otago District rural petition against 3 Waters. A verbal submission was presented to the CODC. Result. No Results. The 600 plus signatories were ignored and dismissed by council. The template submissions were classified as one submission. I was part of the organisation team for the Groundswell/TPU Southern ‘Stop 3 Waters’ campaign and was part of the team that collected two petitions, one requiring a full public meeting about 3 Waters, and the other to defund LGNZ. These were delivered to the mayor of the time. Result. No results. Hundreds of people were ignored and dismissed, Council wouldn’t hold a ratepayer/residents meeting and dismissed defunding LGNZ.After being elected for community board, I put out a series of information flyers into nearly every letter box in Teviot Valley. Result 1) I was publicly called out by the mayor and two other elected officials for spreading misinformation. Result 2) many people learned about the theft of 3 Waters, and the workings of LGNZ and LGFA. Good result. Solicited submissions about the proposed rates increase. Result. Submissions ignored, rates increased by up to 33 percent in Roxburgh and withdrawal of berm mowing. Was called “appalling” by the mayor of the time and censured by my board chairman. Standing up for the ratepayers of Roxburgh was not to be condoned. Solicited submissions against Districtisation which would be detrimental to our area. Result. Despite Teviot and Cromwell being overwhelmingly against Districtisation it went ahead anyway. Two communities were completely ignored. Presented a verbal submission to council about the LTP, which is detrimental to our area. Suggested 3 Waters be a referendum issue in this year’s local body elections, and spoke against the debt burden. Result. Nothing. When not one councillor stood up in outrage at the ‘get a reverse mortgage’ suggestion by mayor [Tim] Cadogan, and the same deafening silence followed the interim mayor's statement about not being able to afford your rates in two years’ time, I realised that no-one is fighting for the residents and ratepayers of our area of Central Otago, so now is the time to make a stand against the tsunami of debt that is headed our way under the current regime at the head table.”Jayden Cromb:“In November 2024 a late report was presented to the board recommending the divestment of nearly all of council owned halls in the ward. As chair I facilitated a lengthy debate on the issue and the board came up with its own recommendations based on what it believed the community would accept. While all of those halls still ended up on the list for the Long Term Plan consultation, we still ended up with our recommendations being approved in the end. To achieve this I spent a considerable amount of time around the ward. Formal information evenings, a school, small committees, anyone I could find that wanted to be heard I met with them. By bringing the VCB members and community together we saved the Clyde town hall, railway station and museum. As well as the Ophir, Poolburn, and Becks halls. It was about bringing the community along on the journey to get the result they wanted. Another added benefit of proper engagement and public partnership was 46.8% of general submissions and 83 percent of youth submissions coming from this ward. It was a win for everyone involved.”Dave McKenzie: “School board of trustees. Brought business and property management experience. Developed an asset management plan for schools and policy for children with separated parents.”Nathan McLean:“Community involvement for me started back in high school, being involved with groups tasked with running events for youth. From there I became involved with my faculty student and staff society while studying at university, eventually serving as treasurer for two terms. Once living in Central Otago, while my children were young, I became involved with the Alexandra Toy Library committee, serving for five years as Treasurer. I've been involved with hockey and rugby in Alexandra, coaching and managing teams. As a family we are also involved with the Alexandra Squash Club, where I am involved as a player, but I am also on the club committee, looking after memberships, treasurer duties and I am the club secretary.I am also on the Board of Trustees for St Gerards School, serving for the past nine years (three terms) and the past three years serving as the presiding member.I love being involved, I love being able to represent others and advocate for those people who don't have time, or don't have the ability to be present.”Martin McPherson:“My work as a commissioner under the RMA with Plan change 19 decision making process. Future proofing growth in the wider region. Engaged with residents, property owners and developers.I continue to support our heritage sector and lobby for our museums and cultural vitality. Heritage sector and museum staff. Helped secure ongoing funding. Wilding Pines - The Half Mile. I wanted to see better engagement with the local residents and supported a staged approach to the development of this area. I failed but tried to engage with my fellow elected members to work alongside the residents. Not everything you do is successful but you try.”Tracy Paterson:“Since arriving in Omakau… 25 years ago I have been actively involved in the community. Initially starting out in Plunket and the Omakau and Districts Toy Library when my kids were young I then moved on to serve for 13 years on the Omakau School Board of Trustees. I have stood up for health care in Central Otago for over 12 years through my involvement in Central Otago Health Inc. both as a member and chair. I have served on the Central Otago A&P Show committee for several years and [am] a strong advocate for the importance of the rural sector in our district. I am the chair of the Bob Turnbull Charitable Trust that gives grants to the community every year. I am a volunteer for the Riding for the Disabled (RDA) Central Otago and am passionate about the amazing opportunity for growth and development it offers its participants. In my capacity as an elected member I have always stood up for the community - both to those who have actively engaged and those who speak to me on the side of sports fields, at the supermarket, the petrol station, the engineers, the woolshed, the various retailers or on the phone. I have backed community groups with their proposals to create better spaces and amenities while making the hard decisions on community infrastructure.”Louise van der Voort:“In my professional role in local government, I frequently engaged with the community through workshops on master planning, spatial planning, and district plan discussions. I facilitated collaboration among diverse groups, ensuring all voices were heard. My expertise in legislation and strong people skills have led to well-informed discussions and decisions with improved community outcomes.” Cam Withington:“About 2003/4 the Alexandra Historical Society was in dire straits and struggling to complete the fit-out of their new museum. So I raised a two year salary outside of council funds to help complete the project. Soon after, I applied to various agencies and government ministries to raise several hundred thousand dollars, which virtually completed the fit-out. In the meantime, a good number of significant artefacts were brought back to the new facility, all the while, negotiating the acquisition of Russel Clark’s 28-panel mural - all at no cost to ratepayers. Our community was very supportive and today they continue to enjoy the art gallery and the historical content.”Lynley Claridge, Ian Cooney, and Kas McEntyre did not respond.Maniototo Ward candidates respond:There are two candidates for one vacancy in the Maniototo Ward.Michelle Bisset:“Having only recently returned to Otago, I would like to refer to a project I was involved in in my last rural community which has broad application in any rural area faced with a changing workforce. Partnering with Rural Women New Zealand (Tutaenui Branch) and a local training provider in Marton (ICENZ), our project worked with Pacifika women whose families had come to New Zealand to work at a local meat works. The pastoral care for these families was minimal and in addition to lacking the basic household essentials, upskilling in local foods and cooking methods was essential. Once a week for a term, the Tutaenui women shared their recipes and cooking skills using economical and seasonal foods to produce nutritionally balanced family meals. During class time, these were compiled into a recipe book and at the end of term this was published to be distributed across the community and also entered into the RWNZ Lady Blundell competition, which the group won.I have had decades of contributing to every community that I have lived in - from volunteering with service groups; collecting and supporting charities such as the Child Cancer Foundation; Blood and Leukemia and the Cancer Society to involvement in local politics and Civil Defence. I remain a member of Rural Women New Zealand and am currently the secretary of the Patearoa Community Group.”Stu Duncan:“I have been a chairman of the Wedderburn Community Association – which we raised funds and shifted the Wedderburn Goods shed back to its site on the rail trail. I have also been on the Naseby Cricket committee, Ranfurly rugby club committee, setting up the original Rail Trail Operators group. I have been on the management committee of Ranfurly Fire Brigade for 10 years and we were instrumental in merging the rural and urban fire brigades – which was the first in NZ. I have been on the Maniototo Community Board for over 20 years and have seen some amazing developments – hospital – curling rink – new playground. I have been a councillor for four terms and in this time have seen enormous growth within this region. I have stood up for many issues in support of my community – from bank closures, potential library closures, road closures, hall closures and have always been a strong advocate for the Maniototo in retaining our key community services.”Teviot Valley Ward candidates respond:There are two candidates for one vacancy in the Teviot Valley Ward.Curtis Pannett:“I was fortunate to be appointed to the Teviot Valley Community Board in December 2024 to fill a vacancy. At my very first meeting, we were presented with a list of buildings the council was considering for divestment—one of which was the Millers Flat Hall.Having grown up in Millers Flat, I, along with many others in the community, was perplexed to see this hall on the list. It's a well-used facility—hosting events two to three times a week—and is widely recognised as a well-maintained and valued community asset. Its inclusion in the potential divestment list raised serious concerns. In response, I worked alongside my fellow community board members and the local hall committee to help prepare the strongest possible submission to council. Our goal was clear: to ensure the Millers Flat Hall continues to be recognised and maintained as a core community asset. As a result the hall was retained.”Mark Quinn:“Since 2023 I have been travelling New Zealand with Challenging Councils, enlightening all walks of life in the direction and the roles that the councils have become. Much to our forefathers having established councils for the people. Today councils are no longer managing councils in the way that they were set up. Our core services and infrastructure are in seriously poor shape. Water, sewer, rubbish bins, berms, country roads, are seriously neglected, and the huge income from rates and loans are gone to fluffy, feel good, woeful projects instead.Challenging Councils today has followers in all parts of NZ now standing up and going for council. It is a successful educational tool, and will only get stronger as more people learn we pay the council's wages but they are working for local government. Councils are now moving away from this local government demanding wasteful status. Auckland, Christchurch the biggest to leave. Smaller councils have also left local government. We should too.”

The developer of the proposed Leaning Rock subdivision has put his application on hold, just a week after he spoke out about it publicly.Many Waikerikeri Valley locals were angry and opposed to the 90ha subdivision, but nobody has been keen to speak out on the record.The Central App received emails regarding the story outlining Andrew Dalziel’s plans to subdivide Leaning Rock Station last week.Some came from as far away as Gibbston Valley where Andrew first started developments in Central Otago (as early as 2003), questioning his credibility.The Companies Office website shows many past companies that he’d been involved in as a director and shareholder had since been liquidated.The former North Canterbury farmer moved south in the early 2000s to buy land in Gibbston, and started the Gibbston Tavern.According to the Companies Office that business was liquidated in 2012, and understood to have since sold to the new operators in 2015.The final liquidator’s report said the company had owned properties in the Gibbston Valley, which were heavily mortgaged. The properties were sold in December 2010 to an unrelated company, resulting in a shortfall to the mortgagee.Andrew told The Central App he had purchased Leaning Rock Station, subject to consent being approved for a 32-lot subdivision on the land, in October 2024.The station had been on the market since 2022, and was currently still being marketed by Colliers, while the subdivision was being marketed by a Cromwell-based real estate company JHC.The agent listed for the subdivision passed on Andrew’s phone number last week, and he confirmed his position as the new owner and developer.Andrew, who was currently living on the Pisa View Farm on Hawkburn Road, near Cromwell, said he was also trying to subdivide his own land.Central Otago District Council confirmed the initial resource consent application by one of his companies, Ysan Investments, was now suspended.The Central App contacted a resident in Waikerikeri Valley on September 10, and was invited to come out and discuss the application with those in the community who were opposed to the development.But later that same day, they messaged to say once the developer heard it would be publicly notified, the application had been put on hold.“At this stage we won’t be making any comment, but we’ll contact you in the future if it progresses and keep you informed,” the resident said.Council confirmed the applicant had subsequently requested that processing of the application be suspended to enable them to respond to the public notification determination.“The process of public notification will not commence until the suspension of the processing of the application is lifted.”Leaning Rock Station was added to Northburn Station in 2001 and covered the Dunstan mountain range from the Waikerikeri Valley on the east, over to Lake Dunstan on the west.A total of 2456ha was under Crown lease and 260ha was freehold land that was leased and farmed by the McKnight family.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

A contingent from Central Otago has been spreading a little Kiwi magic in Spain ahead of next year’s World Gold Panning Championships in Cromwell.Terry Davis, who is part of the crew charged with hosting the event, said the delegation’s mission at this year’s international competition in Navelgas was simple: “We had to feed them all, and we had to give them a taste of New Zealand”.The “taste” came in the form of chicken and pork tacos, rubbed with a classic Kiwi barbecue mix, and topped with a vibrant kiwifruit salsa made from 500 Zespri kiwifruit. “People were blown away. Kiwifruit salsa…honestly, red onion, garlic, lemon juice, a wee bit of chili and fresh coriander. Beautiful,” Terry said.The team even turned sparkling Spanish wine into a Kiwi-inspired cocktail, adding crushed ice and chopped kiwifruit. The reception, he said, was overwhelming. “They were genuinely impressed. It was a beautiful thing.”Alongside the food, the Cromwell delegation showcased slides and images of Central Otago, featuring cycle trails, wineries, and heritage precincts, giving competitors and supporters a real sense of the region. Five-hundred kiwifruit were turned into salsa and cocktails. Image: SuppliedSome of the organising committee didn’t just promote - they panned. Terry and colleague Odette Hopgood took part in multiple events, putting their skills to the test. “I qualified fourth fastest into the semi-finals,” Terry said. “Odette did really well too. We didn’t podium, but we were in the mix.”Goldpanning at a world championship is straightforward: competitors are timed on how quickly and accurately they can find tiny gold flakes in 15-kilogram buckets of sand and gravel. Past championships have attracted close to 500 participants from more than 20 countries.Next year, Cromwell will host the 2026 World Gold Panning Championships at the town’s racecourse from September 26-30. Terry said the organising committee is gearing up for volunteers and sponsorship. “We’re going to need about 40 to 60 volunteers a day for seven days…and there’s going to be plenty of opportunities for sponsorship and signage up. We’re really excited for a good competition next year.”The Spain trip gave the team a head start in connecting with international competitors. “Several of them have already booked their accommodation,” he said. “It’s kicking off.”Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

Promotional grants for the Vincent Community ward have been undersubscribed by $20,000 for the past three years, which meant only half the funding was allocated in the latest round.Thymed Events NZ was successful at gaining $5000 for the Clyde Classic and $2500 for its Alexandra Airport Backyard Ultra 2026.Mountain Bikers of Alexandra was also awarded $2,795 for medic support at its next Linger and Die Enduro MTB race later this month.The Vincent Community Board considered the applications on Monday (September 8) and heard that organisers of the Clyde Classic donated 25 percent of the entry fees to the local school for new sun shades last year.There were lengthy discussions around the table regarding community grant allocation, with nine applicants all vying for a slice of the $76,951 pie.Puna Rangatahi (Alex & Districts Youth Trust) would receive its annual $6,000 operating grant, which would be increased to $10,000 next year.Community development lead Rebecca Williams said the increase reflected the rise in operating costs and the group hadn’t had any increase in funding since 2012.Clyde Museum was allocated $3,500 towards stage 3 of its restoration project, and the Alexandra District Museum Inc given $10,000 towards an upcoming exhibition.Cr Tracy Paterson said the work Central Stories did in the community was underestimated, and Cr Martin McPherson backed that up, saying: "Museums act as a conduit of information to visitors, and if Central Stories didn’t exist, this community would be missing out."Residents of Juniper Close in Alexandra were awarded $2,100 to cover up an “eyesore” of a utility box on their street, which they intend to paint over with a mural.Some concern was expressed that the board could end up with more residents looking for funding to cover up other utility boxes around the town.The Dunstan Equestrian Centre was given $15,000 for carpentry costs of its new toilet block and changing rooms; Alex & Districts Pipe Band Inc was given $3,000 for hall costs; $800 was granted for hanging baskets in for the Keep Alexandra and Clyde Beautiful group; $1,400 for new blinds at the Alexandra Toy Library; and $3,000 for Alexandra Community Advice Network.Rebecca said it was the hardest round of community grants she had ever been involved with, “because of the demand and they are all exceptional projects".Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

Central Otago District Council is warning residents to expect noise and vibration as well as traffic disruption as upgrades continue on a key pipe delivering water in Alexandra.Contractors are set to begin construction work at the Bridge Hill end of the watermain upgrade project to replace 100-year-old pipes dating back to when the Aronui Dam supplied the town’s water.“Pipeline construction on Bridge Hill will likely require extensive rock breaking, creating reasonable levels of noise and vibration,” the council said in a statement.“The upgrade will cause significant disruption to road users in the area and require detours.”For light vehicles, there will be a detour on the east bound lane of Earnscleugh Road between State Highway 8 and Aronui Road, while heavy vehicles will be forced to detour via Conroys Road.The council has created a map to advise motorists of acceptable routes to take while this section of pipe is installed.Work is scheduled to begin on Monday (September 15) and continue through until December.Detours will be needed as a critical water pipe linking Bridge Hill to town is replaced. Image: CODCThe council describes the concrete-lined steel pipe as “nearing the end of its useful life” and a critical supply link for Bridge Hill properties.It suffered a significant burst in 2015 and a minor break in 2021.Meanwhile, work to replace the problem-plagued watermain also continues on Enterprise Street past Dunstan High School.Here, construction started at the end of July, to replace another aged stretch of pipe, blamed for drinking water discolouration.“This is the main water source for schools and local early childcare facilities in the vicinity,” the statement said.“The 70-year-old pipeline has been impacted by Alexandra’s softer water supply from Lake Dunstan, leading to issues such as discoloured water.”CODC capital projects manager Patrick Keenan said the wider project is aimed at ensuring a more reliable water supply for residents and future-proofing the town’s water network.The project has a $2.7M budget, with HEB Construction contracted to complete the work.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

Central Otago tourism leaders say a collaborative campaign highlighting the South’s diverse visitor experiences has proven its worth, with the initiative now a finalist in the 2025 New Zealand Tourism Awards.Tourism Central Otago head of destination Anthony Longman said the ‘One Trip to See It All’ campaign broke new ground by encouraging visitors to fly into one southern airport and depart from another.“The campaign was an industry first in terms of being an open-jaw airline product. If visitors are flying in one airport, and out another, it’s much more likely they’ll visit multiple regions, including Central Otago,” Anthony said.In travel terms, an open-jaw ticket would allow a traveller to, for example, arrive from Auckland into Queenstown, travel overland through Central Otago, and then fly back to Auckland from Dunedin.Anthony said teaming up with rental car companies to remove the “perceived barrier” of one-way hire fees had been another “key enabler” in attracting visitors to explore beyond a single stop.“By promoting and educating visitors through inspiring multi-region itineraries we can guide visitors to and through our regions, highlighting the diversity and the proximity of an amazing variety of activities.”The campaign was developed by Southern Way, a collective of eight Regional Tourism Organisations spanning the lower South Island, from Waitaki to Stewart Island, and including Wānaka, Clutha, Queenstown, Fiordland, Southland and Central Otago.It ran in partnership with Air New Zealand and the Southern Airport Alliance (Dunedin, Queenstown and Invercargill airports) between July and August 2024.Destination Queenstown chief executive Mat Woods said being named a finalist in the Industry Collaboration category was “a testament to what can be achieved when regions unite under a shared purpose”.“We’re proud to work together as a macro-region, amplifying our collective voice and showcasing the South’s extraordinary offerings. This nomination reflects the strength of our partnership and the bold direction we’re heading as a united lower South Island.”Great South tourism and events general manager Mark Frood agreed the campaign showed the power of collaboration.“The Southern Way is more than a campaign - it’s a movement that proves collaboration is our greatest asset. Together, we’re building a resilient, future-focused visitor economy that celebrates the richness of our landscapes, communities, and shared ambition.”Anthony said aligning with neighbouring destinations was also a clear priority identified in Central Otago’s Destination Management Plan.“We know visitors don’t see our regional boundaries, and by partnering with our neighbours on projects such as Southern Way we’re able to showcase Central Otago in ways that we could never do by ourselves.”The winners of the New Zealand Tourism Awards will be announced at a gala dinner on October 29.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

Uber has officially launched in Alexandra, bringing more options for food delivery and rideshare services across Central Otago. Whether you're excited about convenient meal delivery or considering driving for Uber or Uber Eats to earn some extra income, it’s important to understand what it means for your vehicle insurance.Thinking About Driving for Uber in Alexandra?While signing up to drive for Uber or other rideshare platforms is relatively straightforward, many drivers are unaware that standard car insurance often doesn’t cover commercial use. Most private policies state your car is only insured for “private or domestic purposes.” That means if you’re delivering meals or transporting passengers for money, you may not be covered in the event of an accident.The Risk of Being UninsuredWithout the right coverage, a simple fender-bender could become a costly mistake. Even worse, misleading your insurer (even unintentionally) could result in denied claims or policy cancellation.Protect Your Vehicle, Protect YourselfUpgrading your insurance to include business or commercial use is usually simple—and it’s a small cost compared to the financial risks of being uninsured. It’s one of the smartest steps you can take to safeguard yourself and one of your most valuable assets.While Uber sets requirements to protect its platform and users, those requirements don’t always protect you.If you’re unsure whether your policy covers rideshare or delivery work, get in touch — we’ll make sure your insurance is working just as hard as you are.

Central Otago voters are advised to start checking their letterboxes this week, with ballot papers for the 2025 local government elections being delivered from today until September 22.This year voters will again be choosing representatives for both Central Otago District Council and Otago Regional Council - but there will be a change in how they do it. While the district council election will continue under the traditional first past the post system, the regional council election will be conducted under single transferable vote (STV) – a change voted in by councillors last year. Under STV, voters rank candidates in order of preference rather than ticking just one name.The contests are shaping up to be lively. In the Dunstan constituency of the regional council, four seats are up for grabs – one more than last election, after the area gained a seat at the expense of Dunedin. Seven candidates are standing, three of them under the Vision Otago ticket.At district council level, competition is even more intense. A total of 58 nominations were received, with 54 candidates confirmed across the mayoralty, council, and four community boards. That’s almost double the 29 nominations received in 2022.A series of ‘Meet the Candidates’ events are still to be held across the district in the coming weeks, giving residents the chance to quiz those standing before casting their votes.When it comes to returning voting papers, there are several options. Soon to be ‘rolling out’ - orange wheelie bins at council service centres, libraries and some supermarkets for vote collection. Image: CODCSecure ballot bins will be placed at council service centres, libraries, and selected supermarkets across the district. CODC governance support officer Sarah Reynolds told The Central App the council would be “rolling out” orange voting bins to New World and Fresh Choice in Cromwell, New World and Woolworths in Alexandra, Four Square in Ranfurly, and Fresh Choice in Roxburgh.Votes can also be returned by post, but voters need to post them no later than October 7 to ensure they arrive in time. After this date, all votes must go into the ballot boxes.Voting closes at midday on October 11. Progress results will be released later that day, with official results declared in the days following. Dates for the diary:Now until September 22 - voting papers delivered to mailboxesOctober 7 - last day to post votesOctober 8-11 - votes must go into ballot bins (libraries, service centres, selected supermarkets)October 11, midday - voting closesOctober 11, evening - progress results releasedFollowing days - official results declaredOctober–November - new council and community boards sworn inVoters can also keep an eye on The Central App in the lead-up to election day. We’ve sent every candidate a series of four questions, and their responses will be published in a weekly Q&A series over the next month.The questions cover:How candidates have stood up for their community beforeWhat skills and experience they bring to the decision-making tableHow they would balance the books and which services they see as essential (or open to cutbacks)Why they are standing this election and what’s motivating them nowThe series will run right up until voting closes, giving residents another tool to help make an informed choice.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

The trust behind the Cromwell Museum has secured $1.65M in grants to pay for the outfit of the museum in its new location beside Lake Dunstan.Trustee Martin Anderson delivered the news at a Cromwell Community Board workshop on Thursday (September 4), saying $200,000 had been confirmed from Otago Community Trust, on top of $1.1M from Central Lakes Trust and $350,000 from a Lottery Environment and Heritage fund.He told the board the trust was now confident of delivering “a magnificent facility”, which would be a “major drawcard” to the new hall complex, under construction on Melmore Terrace to replace the Cromwell Memorial Hall.Elected members were given a digital walkthrough of design plans for the museum by consultants Story Inc, who delivered a detailed concept design to the museum trust last week.Story Inc director James McLean said the Maori legend of Rākaihautū, who used his giant kō (digging stick) to carve out the mountain lakes of the South Island, sparked inspiration for design elements of the new museum.He started his presentation with a poem: “Carved out with a kō in an ancestor’s hand, water flowed life into the land, many passed through, some stayed, the town submerged as the waters raised, people, like water, find their way”.Displays planned for the space will reflect the themes of the poem: geology and land forming process, early Māori journeys through the area, the arrival of European surveyors and farmers, the gold rush, dam building, horticulture and viticulture, and conservation stories.Windows on the southern side of the under-construction museum face Lake Dunstan. Image: The Central AppJames described a museum that would be less about written words, and more about interactive displays bringing history to life through technology and real-person storytellers.Examples included audio ‘cups’ allowing a visitor to sit and listen to a narrative “without bothering other people”, and a ‘gold cradle’ that, once the user has done enough, will reveal “little specks of gold” thanks to a lighting effect.“We just want to create a spot that people say, ‘Oh, you must go down there’,” he said.Cromwell Community Board chair Anna Harrison thanked Story Inc for its work, which she said would take “people on a journey”.“There’re some really nice touches in there.”She confirmed a name for the new museum had not been decided on, despite recent speculation in the community.A vision for Cromwell’s new museum. Image: SuppliedMuseum curator Jennifer Hay said she wanted the new space to be seen as a “living museum”.“The displays will be refreshed and renewed regularly in order to keep it updated and dynamic and relevant for our population and for future generations,” she said.Earlier this year Jennifer, the former director of the Cromwell Museum, accepted a one-year role as transitional curator for the new space, employed by Otago Regional Council.Construction of the hall and museum is well underway and on track for completion mid next year.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

Vehicles have been getting stuck on a traffic island at the entrance to the new Kāmoanahaehae Riverside Park carpark in downtown Alexandra.Central Otago District Council staff have been instructed by the Vincent Community Board to remove the central splitter island, which was put in place to stop trucks and buses from accessing the area.Cr Martin McPherson said it was an idea “that quite frankly doesn’t work”, noting that many regular users of the carpark had got stuck on it and damaged their vehicles.He told the meeting he’d like “the damn thing” to go.The central splitter island was installed to stop 8.0m medium rigid trucks or larger to have access to the carpark. Truck restriction signs have also been installed on the centre island, and council said it was proving effective in deterring trucks from entering the car park area.But Martin said even the sign had been bowled over by motorists trying to negotiate the tight entrance.“Get the jackhammer out and get rid of the thing.”The development of the Kāmoanahaehae Riverside Park project necessitated the relocation and reconstruction of the entrance to the Warehouse carpark. Prior to the development, the carpark had been accessed by delivery trucks of various sizes, but it was expected that when the project was complete, they would no longer use that space to turn around.Mayor Tamah Alley questioned whether they had overestimated people’s ability to drive.“That corner is meant to be capable of carrying everything but a bus,” she said.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

Health NZ Te Whatu Ora (HNZ) - the entity responsible for planning and delivering health services - has provided an update on its planning for the Central Lakes region (which includes Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes).A statement from HNZ last week (September 1) - ‘Shaping the future of health services in Central Lakes’ - outlined the clinical services review currently underway. Meanwhile, private investors and others are planning health infrastructure and, in one case, preparing to break ground.HNZ said it is planning “to guide the future of health services in the Central Lakes region – one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing areas – with initial workshops and stakeholder engagement sessions already in progress”. The project will “help to determine what future publicly funded clinical services may be required in the area, how they will be delivered, and where they will be provided”. An investment company has just received consent for a five-level surgical hospital and helipad in Wānaka, supported by four purpose-designed office buildings for allied medical services, and on-site car parking.Roa CEO Mike Saegers said the community “can now look forward to the Wānaka Health Precinct attracting medical specialties and services not currently available in the area”.Why wait for the government to do it? The Regional DealAlso underway are regional deal negotiations between central government and Otago Lakes Central (a group comprising Central Otago District Council, Queenstown District Council (QLDC), and Otago Regional Council). The draft deal includes plans for a privately financed, publicly leased hospital in Queenstown - at least partly funded by Queenstown businessman Rod Drury’s Southern Infrastructure group.QLDC councillor Lyal Cocks, a member of the regional deal negotiating committee, said the deal includes a proposal for health infrastructure and services based on work undertaken by the Otago Central Lakes Health Services and Assets Project, as well as identifying existing health projects and resources.  Lyal said “we’ve got to look at alternative ways of doing things”, explaining that if private providers build health infrastructure maybe central government doesn’t have to.“It’s a good thing if we get it earlier rather than later.”Lyal said it was essential to ensure HNZ completes a Clinical Services Plan (CSP) for the region to identify what is needed and where, and “provides the services as identified in the CSP, in whatever way possible”.  Mayors, MPs, private investors collaborateThe Otago Central Lakes Health Services and Assets Project, which includes Central Otago District Council mayor Tamah Alley, Queenstown Lakes mayor Glyn Lewers, Southland MP Joseph Mooney, Waitaki MP Miles Anderson, and Queenstown-based ACT MP Todd Stephenson (and which is backed by a charitable trust) has been working with health infrastructure specialist Helen Foot - of Markit Consulting in Queenstown - with the goal of incorporating public health services alongside existing and planned private providers. Helen Foot has not responded to questions put by this writer.Otago Central Lakes Health Project steering group members (clockwise from left, Queenstown Lakes District Council mayor Glyn Lewers, Waitaki MP Miles Anderson, Queenstown-based ACT MP Todd Stephenson, and Southland MP Joseph Mooney.A statement from the group in July said HNZ’s clinical services review “clears the way for a new hospital in the region that could complement and support existing health services”. “It could be New Zealand’s first large privately-owned and publicly operated hospital,” the statement said.Central Otago Health Services Ltd chair Richard Thomson has urged Central Otago councillors to strengthen their case for Central Otago under the Regional Deal proposal, and from what was proposed in the Otago Central Lakes Health Services & Assets project.Richard said a base hospital in Queenstown would mean the majority of medical patients would have to travel further for care, because of our disaggregated region with multiple population centres (Wānaka, Cromwell, Alexandra, Roxburgh).He believes the focus should be on health services rather than health buildings, “and a base hospital incorporated into a private facility in Queenstown should not be the only option on the table”.Read more: Health leader pushes case for Central Otago hospitalWhat is Health NZ’s role?Despite this work underway, our question to HNZ on who is responsible for planning health infrastructure drew a firm response: “The role of planning for public health services sits exclusively with HNZ,” HNZ Southern interim group director of operations Craig Ashton said.HNZ’s statement last week said its Southern executive regional director Dr Pete Watson, who is new to the role, is encouraging regional and Southern health leaders and service providers to think of the future: digital technologies, new innovations, different ways of working and using different workforces. HNZ Te Waipounamu community integration group manager Aroha Metcalf said planning will incorporate secondary hospitals in Dunedin and Invercargill as well as rural hospitals in the district. “This planning process is essential to shaping the future mix, delivery model, and distribution of publicly funded health services for the Central Lakes region,” she said. “We are committed to working closely with the community, papatipu rūnanga (local Iwi), and key stakeholder groups to ensure access to high-quality and appropriate healthcare services. Community views and experiences of the health system will be a cornerstone of the clinical services planning process.”  Aroha said the review will “set a precedent nationally for the way services are delivered in rural and remote communities by responding to population and geography in equal measure”.HNZ said it is on track to deliver a Clinical Services Plan by December, with planning for implementation beginning in the new year.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] Images: Supplied

A small stone cottage has taken shape on a slope above Lake Dunstan, marking the first step in a long-planned project to honour Cromwell’s Chinese goldmining past. The replica miner’s hut sits above the site of an original Chinese settlement, between the Cromwell Heritage Precinct and the new hall and museum complex under construction.  Mary Hinsen, part of the team behind the project, said it will eventually anchor a larger interpretation of how Chinese miners once lived, gardened and contributed to the town’s life. Research with the help of old photographs and records helped guide the design, and the miner’s hut incorporates local schist, repurposed old timber, sacking for roof lining and trusses made from local trees. “The whole thing’s been built really authentically,” she said.  Stonemason Ben Carr of Rocktipu Stone crafted the walls by hand – for him, it was all about recreating local history. “I’ve seen lots of Chinese huts up in the hills around here, and now I got to build one,” he said. Ben relied on traditional methods throughout the build.  “There’s no string lines, everything is done by eye, rather than with modern tools. It’s minimalistic, just as it was back in the day,” he said. Sacking roof lining and natural wood trusses give a newly-built Chinese miner’s hut an air of authenticity. Image: The Central App The hut is on a steep site, reflecting the conditions the miners themselves faced.  “They just built where they could and where they had the space to do it,” Mary said. “They had to dig into and shore up areas of land that were on incredible slopes. And so we thought we need to do the same sort of thing.” The next stage of the project will involve creating hut footings, partial reconstructions, and gardens to show how miners lived together as a community. There are also plans to use technology in an “exciting” way to help bring history to life, although details remain under wraps for now. The project has its roots in successive community plans, which highlighted the need to share more of the story of Cromwell’s Chinese miners.  Historical records show the miners were part of the wider community, even fundraising for the local hospital, Mary said.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]