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]

A new chapter of biking has begun in Central Otago that enables people who can’t ride the opportunity to share an experience with those who can.Upcycles Charitable Trust has been overwhelmed with support for its Cycling Without Age pilot training programme, which teaches people how to ride a trishaw.The Central Otago chapter started in June, as part of a global movement that began in 2012 by Ole Kassow in Copenhagen. Ole wanted to help his neighbours at the local nursing home get back on their bicycles, but he had to find a solution to their limited mobility. Alexandra resident June Clarke, an abled-bodied pensioner, bought an electric trishaw in mid-winter and got in touch with Upcycles, to see if there were other keen bikers who could help take people for rides too.Upcycles project director Chris Foggin said there were obviously some health and safety hurdles to negotiate when combining bike riders with passengers.Chris (Foggie) will be helping train between 12 and 15 keen riders starting on September 15, through the Community of Bike Ambassadors programme.“The handling of an E-trishaw is different to a bike and the weight distribution of the people on the front makes it tricky too,” he said.Upcycles project director Chris Foggin gets a lift from Alexandra resident June Clarke. Photo: SuppliedThe three-day programme will start with the fundamentals and bike skills - how the trishaw brakes and turns corners, and what speed they should operate at.Chris said pilots needed to be able to handle a bike well themselves and be fit enough to take others.The initiative wasn’t just restricted to elderly - disabled and infirm people of all ages would also benefit from being a passenger on the front of a trishaw.“It can be lifesaving for people and get them into a better space mentally,” he said.Peak Safety Ltd would then come in and teach first aid training out on the trail.The Otago Central Rail Trail would be the only place the trishaw would be used around Alexandra, but eventually Upcycles hoped to have them in Clyde and Cromwell as well.There have been other chapters started up around New Zealand, including in Napier and Te Anau, and one underway in Wānaka as well.Long term, Upcycles was looking for somebody to co-ordinate the project, but for now it would stay under the umbrella of Upcycles, because it was already set up as a charitable trust and able to access funding.An E-trishaw cost around $30,000 because of the complexities of the passenger bucket on the front, so future funding for additional ones or a corporate sponsor would need to be found - as well as for ongoing training of the pilots.And one day Foggie hoped that the whole range of biking represented across Central Otago could be showcased in the Alexandra Blossom Festival parade.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

If you’ve ever needed to sign an international document, you might have heard the term Notary Public thrown around. But what exactly is a Notary Public, and why does it matter that CM Law can now offer this service? We’ve got some exciting news: Kirsten Knights, Director at Checketts McKay Law (CM Law), has recently been appointed as a Notary Public — and that opens up a new level of convenience and capability for our clients across Central Otago and beyond.Let’s break it down. What is a Notary Public?A Legal Witness with International AuthorityA Notary Public in New Zealand is a lawyer authorised by the Archbishop of Canterbury (yes, that’s in the UK — it’s a very old tradition) to officially witness signatures, certify documents, and verify identities for use outside New Zealand. In short, a Notary Public acts as a bridge between our legal system and the rest of the world.What Does a Notary Public Actually Do?Here are a few things a Notary Public can help with:Witnessing signatures on powers of attorney, affidavits, or statutory declarations for use overseasCertifying copies of official documents like passports, birth certificates, or academic recordsVerifying identity for international business or legal transactionsPreparing Notarial Certificates that confirm a document is authenticFacilitating Apostille or Authentication processes for use in countries that require additional verificationIf you're dealing with foreign banks, embassies, courts, or universities, chances are you’ll need a Notary at some point. Kirsten Knights – Your Local Notary Public in Central OtagoWe’re proud to announce that Kirsten Knights, Director at CM Law, has recently been appointed as a Notary Public. With this new designation, CM Law now offers in-house Notary services — meaning you no longer need to travel to Dunedin or Queenstown to get documents notarised. It’s one more way we’re working to make life easier for our clients. What This Means for You1. No More Long DrivesCentral Otago has long needed more accessible Notary services. With Kirsten now authorised, you can save time and money by staying local.2. Peace of MindAs both a senior lawyer and a Notary Public, Kirsten ensures that your documentation is handled with precision and in compliance with international standards.3. Faster TurnaroundsBecause the Notary services are in-house, you don’t have to wait for referrals or delays — we’ll get you sorted quickly and correctly. Who Needs Notary Services?International travellers, students, investors, business owners, or anyone dealing with offshore authorities. If you’re:Applying for a job overseasBuying or selling property abroadStudying at a foreign universityDealing with offshore trusts or companiesHandling an overseas estate…you’ll likely need something notarised. Why Choose CM Law for Notary Services?At CM Law, we’re more than just legal experts — we’re part of your community. With over a century of trusted service in Central Otago, we’re known for:Clear communicationTailored solutionsTrusted expertiseDeep local rootsAdding notarial services just makes sense. It’s another cog in the machine that helps our region run smoothly — and it aligns with our vision to be your first choice for legal support in Central Otago. How to Book a Notary AppointmentIt’s simple:Call your local CM Law officeLet us know what you need notarisedBring along valid photo ID and any original documentsWe’ll take care of the rest In ConclusionHaving a Notary Public on the team at CM Law means we can offer even more comprehensive legal services — all under one roof, close to home. Whether you're sealing a deal abroad or applying for an international opportunity, we’re here to help make the paperwork pain-free.Notarising your documents doesn’t have to be a hassle. Now, it’s just another thing CM Law can take care of — professionally, locally, and efficiently. FAQs About Notary Services at CM LawQ: Can anyone at CM Law notarise documents?No, only Kirsten Knights is authorised as a Notary Public. However, our wider team can support the process by helping prepare your documents for notarisation.Q: Do I need an appointment?Yes, it’s best to book ahead to ensure Kirsten is available, especially if you have time-sensitive documents. Some documents require Kirsten to verify them with the issuer and this can take some time.Q: What should I bring to the appointment?Bring a valid passport or NZ driver licence, the original document, and any instructions from the receiving country (if applicable).Q: How much does it cost?Fees vary depending on the type of notarisation required. We’re happy to provide a quote over the phone or via email.Q: Can CM Law arrange Apostilles or further authentication?Yes, we can assist you in submitting documents to the Department of Internal Affairs for Apostille or Authentication, where needed.

Each week, mayor Tamah Alley shares a one-minute snapshot of the week that was, highlighting key decisions, updates, and the issues council is tackling.Democracy works best when your voice is heard. Tap into Let's Talk for ways to connect and be heard, from surveys and drop-in sessions, to writing directly to mayor Tamah Alley.

Campbell Wright’s story has always been one of admiration. A young athlete from Hāwea with fierce dedication, against the odds, in such a minority sport as biathlon is truly remarkable.He is one of four sons of Americans Scott and Alison Wright, who emigrated to New Zealand in 1993. Scott was a founder of Bay Audio and sold the business in 2009, with the family finding their way to Wānaka in 2011. His brother Paul is a very accomplished cyclist who competes in Europe.For many of Campbell’s early years in the sport, he was it — New Zealand’s only biathlete. He had a coach who lived overseas, whom he found online to help guide and train him.Thank goodness the Snow Farm was in his backyard. He made the most of those world-class facilities to hone his skills and fuel his desire to become one of the best in the world.Can you imagine, over time, being basically the only athlete of your kind in the country? A coach on the other side of the world, training on your own day after day.Wondering where it was all going to lead?He moved overseas in his teens, basing himself in Canada. He represented New Zealand at the Biathlon Youth World Championships in 2019, 2020 and 2021, with a best result of sixth.At the 2020 Youth Olympics, he was New Zealand’s flag bearer and achieved two top-ten results.Fast forward to 2022, Campbell made the New Zealand Winter Olympic team for Beijing. As the youngest athlete, he finished 32nd in a field of 92.At the 2023 World Junior Championships, he won gold in the 10km sprint. He became the first New Zealander (and first Southern Hemisphere athlete) to win a medal in biathlon.These results helped New Zealand place equal third in the medal tally, behind only Germany and Norway. How good is that!In October 2023, it was announced that Campbell would join the USA biathlon roster. He now competes for the red, white and blue, but retains his strong Kiwiana roots.Earlier this year, he became the first USA biathlete, and New Zealander, to win back-to-back silver medals at the World Championships. He is still only 23.There is so much more to this young man’s story. A movie or book would no doubt be a best-seller.Roll on the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy. What are the chances we’ll see a young man from Hāwea, New Zealand, representing the USA on the podium?It’s been a heck of a ride so far for Campbell — and just imagine the icing on the cake if his dream is realised.Campbell shares more about his journey and what’s next in our podcast this week.

The Alexandra Blossom Festival, which will take place on September 26-28, has announced an entertainment lineup for the annual celebration of spring.The festival has been a fixture on the Central Otago calendar for 68 years, celebrating not only spring but also the region’s special character and its role in the summer fruit and wool industries.More than 10,000 people enjoy the festival celebrations each year.This year’s entertainment lineup includes the Contact Party In the Park mainstage, featuring Alexandra blues guitarist Paul Foulds, and well known Kiwi musicians Barry Saunders and Jackie Bristow. Ten-piece band Capitol City will also take to the stage, bringing their trademark synergy and infectious energy.The children’s entertainment stage includes crowd favourites Mullet Man and MiM - a husband and wife team with combined circus entertainment experience of over 50 years; Wayne McEwan Magic Guy - a fast-paced family show; Mr Heaphy - who specialises in stilt walking, aerial performance and sideshow; juggler, magician and clown Mr Wozowski; and the festival’s newest performer Emma Mackey - a circus performer and party entertainer.Find more information about the Blossom Festival here. Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

Compliance work from Otago Regional Council (ORC) had a strong focus in Central Otago over the past year, given the number of water schemes and water take and bore consents.The Annual Operational Compliance Monitoring Report 2024/25 was discussed by ORC’s environmental delivery committee on Thursday (September 4).As at mid-August 2025, a total 8,252 combined consents and permitted activities throughout Otago were assigned priority from 1-6.Priority 1 site audits and inspections completed in the Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago districts were typically dominated by earthworks relating to development and in-stream consented activities.The Central Compliance Team also completed a large number of septic tanks and medium-sized privately owned wastewater treatment site audits and inspections, under Priority 2.Water schemes, water takes and bore consents came under Priority 3.Manager compliance Simon Wilson told the meeting there didn’t appear to be any worsening trend of significant non-compliance of consents in the past 12 months.“We have put in a lot of effort into discharge consent monitoring, and many are proving better than they have been,” he said.Discharge monitoring could be carried out by the team monthly because of the direct impacts on the environment, and when there was significant non-compliance.Simon said he was pleased with the general level of compliance and engagement from people attending education focused events, plus the increased use of ORC’s 24/7 Pollution Hotline.The team had a target of completing 6,000 planned performance monitoring assessments (monitoring required under a consent) and 1,000 audits and inspections in the 2024/25 financial year.There were also a total of 8,794 performance monitoring returns graded and 1,264 audits and inspections completed. “The compliance monitoring and enforcement teams continued to meet and exceed targets largely through the effectiveness of solid work planning, on-going training and in implementing efficiency gains across the respective teams,” Simon said. The Otago-wide 24/7 Pollution Hotline was also an excellent resource for people and communities to engage directly with ORC, effectively acting as “eyes on the ground”, he said. “Using the Pollution Hotline enables us to get staff to these events quickly and assess whether there is in fact an impact on the environment, and how best to contain it.” There were 1,042 individual incidents associated with the 1,407 complaints reported through to the Pollution Hotline during the 2024/25 financial year. The most common complaints received within the 2024/25 financial year related to water pollution (331), outdoor burning (230), odour (160), and domestic chimney smoke (92). The investigation and compliance teams issued 125 formal enforcement actions, an increase from 100 formal enforcement actions taken in the 2024/25 year.  The focus was always on education first, but it is important that the right compliance tool was used at the right time. Enforcement actions during the year included five formal warnings, 62 infringement notices and 56 abatement notices. One enforcement order was applied through the Environment Court while one prosecution was initiated. Two prosecutions were concluded with two prosecutions still in progress. Of the two prosecutions concluded one person was convicted for outdoor burning, while the other resulted in an offending company and individual being convicted in relation to tyre storage.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

Otago Regional Council (ORC) is asking people to call in the professionals to deal with any rook sightings. People in Otago are being asked to report rook sightings during spring, when the pest birds are most active. ORC biosecurity coastal delivery lead Simon Stevenson said while rooks have been reduced to very low levels, there are still some occasional sightings.  “We need the public’s help to target the last remaining birds, bearing in mind the potential always remains for the population to increase again,” he said.“This enables us to better map nests and target these pests.” In recent years, ORC and Environment Southland have worked together to eradicate rooks, with community help, which has pushed populations down to very low numbers from many thousands of breeding pairs in the 1980s and 1990s. Southland is now rook free, while the birds continue to be sighted in Otago.Historic rookeries in the Otago/Southland regions.As rooks are intelligent and wary birds it is important that people don’t shoot at them but report them to council so effective control options can be undertaken, at no cost to the landowner. Rooks are part of the crow family and are large birds with glossy, purplish-black feathers. They can be differentiated from other birds, such as magpies, by their larger size, their distinctive ‘kaah’ call, slow wing flap and their wariness of people. Rooks are attracted to recently cultivated paddocks and will feed on newly sown crops causing significant damage. Rooks were introduced to New Zealand between 1862-1873 to control insects, and, like many other introduced species, their population flourished and spread.People should report any rook sightings immediately to ORC. Do not attempt to control any yourself, as unsuccessful attempts encourage dispersal and make rooks very wary and much more difficult to control. Find out more about why rooks are a pest here.Images: ORCHave a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

Leaning Rock Station has been sold to a Central Otago farmer and property developer, subject to consent being approved for a 32-lot subdivision on the land.The farm, formerly owned by Tom and Jan Pinckney - owners of the neighbouring Northburn Station, had been on the market since 2022.New owner Andrew Dalziel, who is also currently subdividing Pisa View Farm where he lives, said Leaning Rock had been under offer since October 2024.Consent for the subdivision on 90ha of the 2696ha station had been lodged with Central Otago District Council, and Andrew was confident a hearing would be held in coming months.The former North Canterbury farmer moved south in 2010 to buy land in Gibbston, and started the Gibbston Tavern.He sold that in 2015, and was involved with another subdivision with the remaining land before purchasing Pisa View Farm in 2018, where he also had a 4ha cherry block.The workable part of Leaning Rock Station had been leased to Bevan and Tiffany McKnight for several years, and Andrew said the profit from the subdivision, if granted, would go towards a new 46ha sustainable irrigation scheme.“There is productive farm land if it had proper irrigation, but it’s that dry,” he said.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 farmed by the McKnights.One of the lots (165ha) would be retained to support the working station, and was protected by a no build covenant.JHC Cromwell had been marketing the 32-lot subdivision since March 2025, and Andrew said there had been huge interest - both locally and from people living in Auckland wanting to move south.“The bulk of the inquiries are from Queenstown with people wanting to downsize,” he said.He said there were quite a few sections (all 2ha minimum) that couldn’t be seen from the road that were ideal for smaller homes.There would be covenants in place to restrict the size and to keep it in the higher end of the market - with sections ranging in price from $399,000 right up to $845,000 (11 sections were up on a terrace that had expansive views).Andrew said council had indicated the subdivision wouldn’t need to be publicly notified, and he was currently working with neighbours to address their concerns.He also intended to tarseal a further 3km of Waikerikeri Valley Road, and had been collaborating with Heritage New Zealand on the location of historical gold workings on the property.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

Central Otago District Council says meeting the government’s new building inspection targets will be “challenging”, with extra resourcing likely needed to keep up.Regulatory services manager Lee Webster said the council was currently completing 80 percent of inspections within three working days.However he warned the target would be difficult to sustain month to month, given fluctuating demand and limited staff. “In the coming months, we do expect inspection wait times to lengthen due to training commitments, annual leave, and recent staff vacancy,” he said.Recruiting new building control officers was also difficult, with a two-year training programme and many officers opting for contracting work instead.“This further impacts council’s ability to meet the needs of the community,” Lee said.“Customers can help reduce delays by submitting good applications, being ready when inspections are booked and ensuring the building work matches the consent issued.”Southland MP Joseph Mooney welcomed the changes, saying they would reduce costly hold ups for the building sector.“Delays can cost builders thousands of dollars in lost time,” he said. “When our government introduced reporting for building consents, delays improved. Now it’s inspections’ turn.”The new rules announced by Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk came into effect on August 22. Councils must now complete at least 80 percent of building inspections within three working days of the date requested.The minister expected the new target, alongside wider consent reforms, to cut inefficiencies and give homeowners and builders greater certainty.The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment will publish quarterly wait time data for every council with the first results released in the final quarter of this year.“Shining a light on the data will lift performance and give the public a clear view of how councils are tracking,” the minister said.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

The annual $24,500 Alexandra Blossom Festival promotional grant funding from Central Otago District Council has gone back into the pot, paving the way for new events to be considered.The Vincent Community Board decides on both promotional grants and community grants twice a year, and since the blossom festival’s funding had recently been secured by tourism reserves, there is now $45,000 available.Next week the community board will consider applications from Thymed Events NZ, which is asking for $10,000 for the Clyde Classic, and $8,000 for the Alexandra Airport Backyard Ultra 2026.Mountain Bikers of Alexandra also put in an application for $,2795 for medic support at its next Linger and Die Enduro MTB race in September.Meanwhile, nine community grant applications have been received - requesting $76,951 in funding from a funding pool of just $38,000.The applications cover a wide range of initiatives, including a $2,100 utility mural box for the residents of Juniper Close in Alexandra, and $5,000 for stage 3 of Clyde Museum’s restoration.The Alexandra District Museum Inc has asked for $30,000 for its ‘Our Stories’ exhibition, and the Dunstan Equestrian Centre needs $15,000 for carpentry costs of the new toilet block and changing rooms.The remainder of the applications were for rent and hall hire costs for several community groups including Puna Rangatahi (Alex & Districts Youth Trust, Alex & Districts Pipe Band Inc and the Alexandra Community Advice Network.)Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

While the end of New Zealand’s rural copper network “marks the end of an era”, Central Otago’s mayor is confident modern alternatives can cover connectivity needs across the district.Tamah Alley says the move "highlights just how far technology has come”.The comments come after the Commerce Commission recommended deregulation to the Minister for Media and Communications, arguing that copper regulation is no longer necessary to promote competition. The mayor acknowledged the challenges of losing copper in areas without fibre but said new technologies are helping bridge the gap.“Previously, the loss of copper in areas where fibre internet is not available has been a huge barrier, but the increase in availability and reduction in cost of satellite options will cover most situations,” she said.“In the past, the copper network has served as a ‘backup’ for emergency situations, but council now uses Starlink to fill that gap.“It’s not inconceivable that within the next few years all our smart phones will also be satellite phones.”Commerce Commission telecommunications commissioner Tristan Gilbertson says rural consumers are increasingly moving to “cheaper and better performing alternatives”, and fewer than a third of rural households still rely on copper.If the minister approves deregulation, Chorus could begin withdrawing copper infrastructure from rural areas. But Rural Women New Zealand is urging caution. “Our members understand and accept the reasoning behind the move away from copper,” national president Sandra Matthews said. “However, we’re concerned about the consequences for rural people, particularly those without access to alternative technologies, with medical needs, or for whom digital literacy remains a barrier.”She says copper is still a lifeline for many rural families and older residents, and a well-resourced, transparent education campaign to support the transition was required.The sentiment is echoed by Federated Farmers, which is urging decision makers to ensure rural communities aren’t left behind as technology shifts.As if to prove the point, a live interview on the topic on RNZ’s Nine to Noon show in recent weeks cut out when the group’s rural connectivity spokesperson Mark Hooper’s line from his Taranaki dairy farm failed."I couldn’t have timed it better if I tried," he said."Just as Bryan Crump was suggesting rural people had plenty of modern alternatives to rely on, he got to see firsthand what those of us who live in rural New Zealand deal with every day."Rural connectivity isn't up to scratch, cellular reception is patchy at best, and Chorus’s withdrawal of the copper network only adds to concerns many rural residents have about connectivity.”The Commerce Commission has emphasised the need for a managed withdrawal process to protect consumers, similar to the Copper Withdrawal Code used in urban centres.Chorus has reassured remaining copper users they will be given ample notice and support to transition to alternatives such as fixed wireless, regional internet providers, or satellite connections. Media and Communications Minister Paul Goldsmith is expected to make a final decision by the end of the year.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

Internationally renowned artist and storyteller Maungarongo (Ron) Te Kawa will be in Central Otago in mid-September giving workshops on textiles and connection.As part of the ACE Festival of Adult Learning and Welcoming Communities Week, Central Otago REAP and Central Otago District Council are holding Whiria te Tāngata from September 5 to 14 - celebrating lifelong learning and the threads that connect people.Ron will have two workshops: one in Bannockburn on Saturday September 13 and a second in Earnscleugh on Sunday September 14.The textile artist and former fashion designer who currently lives in Woodville would be part of a week of events to promote hands-on learning and cultural exchange.Whiria te Tāngata was a Māori whakataukī (proverb) meaning ‘weave the people together’. “It speaks to unity, connection, and belonging, the strength we gain when individuals and communities come together with shared purpose,” ACE team leader Emma McLean said.Following a vibrant career in costume design and fashion, Ron dedicated himself to full-time art-making and teaching. In addition to producing his own elaborate whakapapa quilts, he also hosts sewing workshops, guiding participants to express their creativity and genealogy through fabric. His works are held in a wide range of private and public collections, including those of Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū, the Dowse Art Museum, and the University of Auckland Waipapa Taumata Rau.A hands on workshop day at the Maniototo arts centre starts today (Friday September 5) from 9-3pm, for anybody wanting to drop in and learn about gardening, AI, voice and wellbeing.At Alexandra Community House on Monday night (September 8), Lake Hāwea singer/songwriter Anna van Riel will offer vocal coaching.Other events include a whakarongomai listening lounge session on September 11, involving stories from locals newcomers while enjoying South African cuisine.More information about the week can be found here on the Central App community button.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

Central Otago District Council has signalled concerns about the government’s Local Government (System Improvements) Amendment Bill, warning it could limit the council’s ability to plan for long-term community needs. Mayor Tamah Alley said she intends to present the council’s submission to central government decision makers, if given the chance.The bill, introduced earlier this year, aims to focus councils on “core services” such as roads, water, and waste, while removing the broader social, economic, environmental, and cultural well-being responsibilities reinstated in 2019. It also seeks greater national oversight, standardised governance tools, and stronger reporting on council expenditure.In its submission on the bill, delivered last week, CODC welcomed the government’s goal of improving efficiency and transparency but raised concerns that the bill misunderstands the drivers of rate increases and could encourage short-term decision-making at long-term cost.“Our community has clearly asked us to manage increasing cost pressures with a mature, planned approach,” the submission said. “We ask the government facilitate this with a bipartisan government consensus on the purpose of local government and stability to navigate the future.”The council notes 77 percent of its spending is on roading, water infrastructure, and waste, with increases in three waters, insurance, and energy costs driving a chunk of rates rises. The submission warns proposed rate-pegging measures could severely limit the council’s capacity to invest in housing, infrastructure renewal, and climate resilience.While supporting improved reporting and accountability at a national level, the council emphasises that “what looks good for Christchurch or Wellington is not the same as what looks good for Ranfurly or Cromwell”.The submission also raises concerns about community well-being: removing the four well-being provisions could narrow councils’ purpose and restrict their ability to reflect local values. “Local government is the most immediate and accessible form of democracy,” the submission said. “The strength of our system lies in its responsiveness to local voices, local diversity, and local aspirations.”Finally, the council is concerned there’s a risk the bill shifts new responsibilities onto them without enough support, particularly in civil defence and climate adaptation work.“Central Otago District Council is concerned about the potential for unfunded mandates and communities falling through gaps in this legislation,” the submission said.Mayor Alley said the council will continue to advocate for local autonomy, clear guidance, and resources that enable Central Otago to plan for its community now and into the future.Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

Psychiatric services for children and adolescents would be expanded in Central Otago, and telehealth consultations made available to those in the Upper Clutha region.Two additional mental health nurses have also joined the Queenstown-based community mental health team, providing increased in-person support across the region, Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey announced last Thursday (August 28). The minister said the government was committed to faster access to mental health support, more frontline mental health workers, and a better mental health crisis response.A new psychiatric registrar recently joined the Central Lakes Community Mental Health team based at Dunstan Hospital - transferring from Dunedin.Matt Doocey told the Central App the psychiatric registrar role for Central Otago, which also covered Queenstown and Wānaka, improved capacity for face-to-face appointments.Those spoken to in the industry confirmed the biggest need for the service in Central Otago was in the area of moderate to severe mental health.The community mental health team had an on-call 24-hour service that linked with Dunedin’s Waikari Hospital for urgent referrals.In November 2024, New Zealand Police started scaling back its mental health assistance, including transportation requests to psychiatric hospitals - saying it was taking up too much of their time.Police now only respond to mental health sector requests where there is an immediate risk to life and safety.The minister announced another new contract for child and youth mental health services in Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago, awarded to ADL Supporting Young People and based in Cromwell.ADL employs a team of clinicians and wellbeing coaches that offer professional counselling services to youth.On his recent visit to Wānaka as part of the nationwide Rural Health Roadshow, Matt had the opportunity to meet with more than 300 locals at a community meeting - the largest turnout of the roadshow.“While there I held a dedicated session with Health Action Wānaka, a local group advocating for improved health services in the region.“Hearing directly from residents and frontline health workers, including their concerns, reinforced why this government is working hard to improve the health system.” He said the changes would help deliver better child and youth services together with adult crisis support, clinical care, and therapy closer to home: “Something we heard loud and clear was needed during our Wānaka visit.” Matt said the government was “turning the corner” on reducing wait times and increasing the mental health workforce. “Recent data shows the frontline Health NZ mental health workforce has grown around 10 percent since we came into government, and over 80 percent of people are being seen within three weeks for specialist services.” Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] 

A new bloc of candidates for Otago Regional Council (ORC) is promising not just a rates freeze, but actual rates cuts.Vision Otago, which includes sitting Dunstan councillors Michael Laws and Gary Kelliher, launched its rates and finance policy this week, pledging to “reduce rates, not hold them” over their first council term.The group said its campaign is fuelled by what it calls the “obscene annual rate rises” of recent years.While this year the average rates rise for the region was 5.5 percent - significantly lower than the forecast 13.8 percent - it was 16.6 percent, 18.8 percent, 18 percent, and 48.5 percent in the years preceding.Michael said households in Central Otago and Southern Lakes often experienced rates rises higher than average.Both he and Gary refused to sign off on rates rises in the past term in a bid to “instil more responsibility to the council’s finances”.Vision Otago argues the council has let spending spiral, pointing to staff numbers they say have almost doubled in recent years, a new Dunedin headquarters that is over budget and behind schedule, and the contrast of still hiking rates despite fully owning Port Otago and banking a $15M dividend last year.“In the midst of a cost of living crisis – when farmers, businesses and ordinary households are doing it tough – the ORC has purposefully turned a blind eye,” Michael said.“This isn’t so much not reading the room – this is not reading the region.”In the Dunstan constituency, a third candidate for council, Nicky Rhodes, a commercial real estate agent based in Wānaka, is also running on the Vision Otago ticket.The elections will be conducted by postal vote using, for the first time, the Single Transferable Vote system, which allows voters to rank candidates in order of preference and can encourage strategic grouping.At a meet-the-candidates event held in central Queenstown on Monday night (September 1), local Queenstown-based ORC hopefuls Matt Hollyer and Ben Farrell reportedly joined forces to suggest voters rank them ‘1’ and ‘2’ on the ballot - then stop there, to up the chance of a strong Wakatipu voice on the council.The Dunstan constituency covers the communities of Wānaka, Cromwell, Tarras, Makarora, Alexandra, Maniototo and Teviot Valley, in addition to Queenstown.Long-standing Central Otago councillor and deputy mayor Neil Gillespie, of Cromwell, and Maniototo-based community worker Aime Pont round out the seven candidates vying for election to the four seats representing the area - up from three at the last election.Ballot papers are expected in letterboxes throughout the region later in September, with voting closing on Saturday, October 11. Read more: Councillors slam STV shift as 'Dunedin-centric' and ORC’s new voting system ‘easy and effective’: expertHave a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]