A crisp start and promising skies drew Otago hunters to the wetlands and riverbanks in large numbers this past weekend, marking the 2025 game bird season opening with enthusiasm, tradition, and plenty of family camaraderie.From early morning setups near Clydevale to lakes and rivers across Ida Valley and Manuherekia, spirits were high, even if ducks proved elusive in the still conditions.For two hunters stationed along the Lower Clutha, it was a morning to remember. “They had shot 40 mallards between them before midday,” Fish & Game officers reported. “It was their best Opening Day ever.”Across Otago, ranging teams visited 67 hunters by midday including 12 junior hunters. Officers noted strong compliance with bag limits and safety regulations, though three individuals were found hunting without a licence, and several juniors received verbal warnings for using lead shot.Weather varied across the region, adding unpredictability to the hunt. Around Ida Valley and Manuherekia, the skies were clear and windless — not ideal for duck movement. Yet hunters still reported mixed bags of mallard, shoveler, and paradise shelduck.Kyeburn saw quieter action, with birds scarce in the calm. But what stood out most was the sense of community: “It was great to see farmers sharing their maimais with visiting friends and family,” one ranger said.Conditions near Clydevale provided a contrast — overcast skies and patchy rain helped encourage duck flight. On one side of the river, around 20 percent of ponds were being hunted despite a strong bird presence. On the opposite bank, most maimais had bagged about 15 mallards and two or three paradise ducks by late morning.Fish & Game Otago highlighted the tradition’s deep roots and community values."Game bird season in Otago is about more than hunting,” said Jordan, a Fish & Game spokesperson. “It’s a powerful cultural moment — a passing down of values, skills, and a respect for nature. You can see it in the multi-generational maimais and the way farmers welcome urban hunters.”He noted Otago’s continued commitment to conservation through hunting: “Our licence holders help protect and restore wetlands — habitats that benefit not just ducks but dozens of native species. They’re passionate about the outdoors and safeguarding it.”As the day wound down, stories and laughter echoed across the banks — a reminder that the essence of the hunt lies as much in companionship as in the harvest.For those who missed the opener, the season continues with opportunities for connection, fresh kai, and Otago’s enduring wild beauty.

Welcome to the third installment on the diverse and interesting people who make Central their home.Adventure, the ice and the mountains called American doctors Ally and Danny Ross and their family, and now they love living in Alexandra.The couple moved here in February to work as general practitioners (GPs) at Health Central.Their four children have settled into St Gerards School and early childhood education and life is busy but fun according to Ally, as everyone is jumping into their winter sports.Ally was late to medicine, completing Anthropology study first, which took her to do field work in Africa and to a leprosy colony.“I’ve always loved adventures and exploring,” she said.The oldest of five girls, her dad was a doctor and she didn’t see him a lot when she was growing up.An idea to find a career that could lead to adventure while helping people meant medicine was a logical choice for her.She trained in rural medicine and during her residency came to Kaitaia, Northland, New Zealand for five weeks, 12 years ago.She said that’s where it all started as she loved exploring Northland, hiking, visiting beaches and touring around.Danny and Ally exploring the South Island. PHOTO: Supplied She signed up to a social media group for GP opportunities around the world and landed a swap situation in Cambridge in 2024, where her family moved into another GPs home, and had the use of their car for a year.  “We enjoyed it, there was a great community there, but we missed the mountains.”Ally is from Idaho and her husband Danny is from Montana; both states are known for their mountainous terrain, natural beauty and wildlife.“We wanted to be somewhere we could stay and [Cambridge] wasn’t that for us.“I googled all the towns with ice rinks in the South Island and then emailed and cold called all the GP clinics.“We took a road trip through the South Island and interviewed at clinics all over, including Gore.”“As soon as we arrived in the [Alexandra] valley my son loved it.. It has similar topography with schist, rocks, high desert...and defined seasons.”Pictured are (back row) Ally, Danny, Archer and front row Coleman, Lyla and Josie. PHOTO: Supplied Danny is a keen ice hockey player and together with Ally, and oldest kids Coleman and Lyla they’ll be on the ice with the Flames ice hockey club this winter. She said the welcome they’ve felt has been warm, including a “delivery of venison” but it was humbling having to get to grips with a hugely different health system.“I’ve done better than I thought I would away from my family.”The things about New Zealand she said she rates are the unique culture and mindset, Kiwis' sense of humour and the sustainable ethos.“People have an inclination to protect the world and the environment, people shop second hand… you are ahead of the USA in terms of plastic.”Residents in Roxburgh who have had a stream of locum doctors in recent years can look forward to some certainty, Ally is in the town one day per week and said so far their new home was delivering all the adventures they were after. Read more: Central Home: Meet the Dhakal family, from Nepal to Alexandra. Read more: Central Home: Sisters make Ida Valley home. Have a story to share? Do you know an interesting candidate for Central Home?Contact [email protected]

Alexandra’s The Terrace School (TTS) blessed five new classrooms in a special ceremony yesterday (May 2). Rangitahi (youngsters), tamariki (children), TTS kaiako (teachers) and kaimahi (staff), whānau (family), kaumātua (elders), representatives from TTS board of trustees, TTS parent teacher association and the Ministry of Education (MoE) attended at 8am, in a chilly 3 degrees Celsius.A karakia (blessing), waiata (songs), ribbon cutting ceremony occurred, followed by procession through the new spaces to touch the walls and bless them prior to the pupils moving in.TTS year eight pupil Meesha Jones cuts the ribbon with the help of principal Sarah Graham. TTS principal Sarah Graham said the new rooms were warm, modern and bright and everyone was very excited to get into their new learning environment.“The Ministry [of Education] making improvements in schools here, it’s great for the kids and our community… it really lifts everyone.”TTS year seven and eight teacher Hannah Alabaster said that for her and many other teachers, it was the first time in their teaching careers to have a new classroom.“We’re grateful to have the opportunity to learn and teach in a modern, warm and insulated building. We know how much work it has taken to get to this point.”Hannah had used the plans for the new blocks as an opportunity for learning with her class, who had enjoyed watching the demolition, build and construction process.Board of trustees chairperson Jayden Cromb thanked Nelson based Fitzgerald Construction, the MoE, TTS trustee responsible for property Ashleigh Anderson and local kaumātua Tim Riwhi, Louise McKenzie and Francie Diver for their help on the project and the opening occasion.Pictured at the ceremony (from left) are kaumātua Louise McKenzie, Tim Riwhi, Francie Diver, Sarah Graham and Jayden Cromb. Louise spoke to the crowd and explained the blessing process would make the whare safe, happy and warm.“You will relax, enjoy and open up your minds to learning all sorts of clever things to be as smart as us… these assets will be enjoyed by tamariki, whānau and the community. Alexandra is looking affluent.”The new classrooms will be used for classes from next Friday. The ākonga (learners) in years five to eight will be moving in after seniors return from Deep Cove camp. The new classrooms are in two blocks, they are numbered rooms 10 - 14 and located alongside the field and scooter track. Watch highlights from the ceremony here (1 min 20sec). VIDEO: The Central App Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

The cause of the Roxburgh Entertainment Centre on February 6 may never be known, because of how devastating it was.Those were the words from Central Otago District Council property and facilities manager Garreth Robinson to the Teviot Valley Community Board yesterday.Council staff were at the meeting to start the process of the community steering group for the rebuild, which would be led by the community board (TVCB).A report to the board showed the rebuild project had an ‘optimistic’ opening date of July 2028, but the next step was for the TVCB to decide on four external stakeholders with relevant experience.The steering group would comprise the project sponsor, the business owner, project manager, a member of the TVCB and the four appointed members of the community.Council recommended a representative from the Roxburgh Entertainment Centre Improvement and Promotions Group (RECIP), the Roxburgh Musical Society, Roxburgh Brass Band and a TVCB member.The community board would meet again in the next few weeks to progress the steering group, which would be formalised by July 31, and then signed off by council.Board member Gill Booth said from feedback in the community, if it was viewed as a council rebuild, and council “controlled,” they risked not getting as much financial support from donations and fundraising, “because people don’t view it as theirs.”But Garreth said there was no point in having 150 people around a table trying to make a decision, “it’s not going to happen.”Board chair Norman Dalley, who was also part of the Entertainment Centre committee, said there seemed plenty of opportunity for input to be extracted from the community.The group would look at the proposed scope developed by the architect, provide feedback, and generally be a sounding board for the project.The historic building was opened in 1875 and divested to the council in 1918. It was insured for $6.4 million and the council would go out to market with potential suppliers for ideas on a new community space and theatre. Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Clyde Volunteer firefighter and orchardist Tim Paulin is gearing up to complete his eleventh Sky Tower Challenge next month. He is one of five from the Clyde brigade taking part, they’ve been training since February, using their “Stairs For Mental Health” WhatsApp group to tee up stair climbs at the Clyde Dam and keep each other on track. Tim said each member wants to raise $1,500 individually to qualify for automatic entry to next year's event. “[As a team] we’ve got $2,500 so far… and we expect to get around $5,000.”Firefighters need to cover their own accommodation and travel costs but he said it was a rewarding experience to be a part of.“We get as much out of it ourselves, as we put in. It’s a good cause, it keeps us fit, and we get together and have a yarn.”Now in his 50s he has figured out his pace up the Sky Tower but he said participants, himself included “get wobbly, and your brain goes to funny places,” due to the difficulty of the event.“You sound like Darth Vader in your helmet, but it’s all about focus.“People are lined up at the start, there’s 20 second intervals.. and the young guys in their 20s do catch me and pass me. I carry on plodding.“Then I’ll pass them maybe 10 more floors up, or by the end… they’ve blown themselves out.”A Clyde firefighter takes part in the 2021 Sky Tower Challenge. PHOTO: File After a workout in the Clyde Dam; Peter, Andy, Tim, Tom and Barry from Clyde. PHOTO: SuppliedTim said he plans to keep doing the challenge, until he can’t, or maybe the cost to take part might result in him stopping. “Clyde is a little town, and we’re a little brigade, the fundraising side of things is getting harder.”Tim has had a cousin who has had blood cancer and has another friend currently battling Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. “Plenty of people have been touched by [Leukaemia and Blood Cancer]”Other Central firefighters are training for the annual Auckland Sky Tower challenge next month too. Pages for local residents to show their support can be found online for Alexandra, Clyde, Cromwell and Naseby.Dunstan rural firefighter Josh Woodside has been training with the Clyde members for the challenge, and has signed up as an individual. PHOTO: Supplied The Firefighter Sky Tower Challenge is now in its 21st consecutive year and now raises more than $1M for the charity annually. Along with Kiwi firefighters international competitors come from Australia, Chile, Germany, Croatia and the United Kingdom. The firefighters will be wearing full firefighter gear and breathing apparatus that weighs around 25kg. The climb is 1103 steps, 328m high. It’s more than 50 flights of stairs to the top. The average race time is 16 minutes.Fundraising closes just prior to the challenge, on Saturday May 24. Leukaemia and Blood Cancer New Zealand supported 6,600 patients in 2024, along with the firefighter challenge one of it’s other fundraisers is Shave for a Cure that occurs in May too. All the best to the Central firefighters taking part.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

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

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

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

Game bird hunters across Otago are gearing up for what looks to be an encouraging start to the 2025 season, which opens on Saturday (May 3).Despite a change in monitoring approach this year, Otago Fish & Game officers are optimistic about duck numbers throughout the region following favourable breeding conditions.Central Otago Sports Depot - all your duck shooting supplies are here!"We’re committed to preserving our outdoor traditions and protecting the habitats that sustain game bird species,” Fish & Game officer Bruce Quirey said."After analysing years of data between annual aerial counts of mallards and harvest surveys in Otago, we've found the numbers don't correlate."A large mallard count doesn't necessarily mean a big harvest, and vice versa."In response to these findings and recognising the importance of being responsible with how Otago Fish & Game manages its resources, the organisation has suspended preseason aerial flights this year."Instead, we're working at a national level to review best practices for game bird monitoring," Bruce said."We will keep licence holders informed of next steps and continue our long-term harvest surveys this season. Don't be surprised if you get a phone call from us, asking about your individual hunting success."Anecdotal reports from across the region suggest promising populations in multiple areas.In the Maniototo, good numbers of ducks are being seen on the upper Taieri River, which is beginning to recover after several dry months. Around the broader Taieri area, hunters and farmers are commenting on healthy duck populations along the river system and in certain paddocks.The Milton area is seeing large mobs of mallards moving on and off paddocks, while South Otago observers have noted substantial numbers on ponds near Balclutha and on the lower Clutha River (Mata-Au).Recent footage captured a significant mob of ducks in the Clinton area, with good numbers also observed on Lake Tuakitoto.West Otago is reporting large numbers of ducks on ponds and harvested grain paddocks around Tapanui. The Fish & Game managed wetland at Takitakitoa is holding more water than at this time in the previous two years – a positive sign for hunters in that area.Hunters on large water bodies such as lakes Waihola and Waipori will be hoping for windy conditions to move birds around.“As with every season, Opening Weekend success will depend significantly on weather conditions,” Bruce said.Hunters should expect moderate breezes and cloudy skies with late showers around coastal and southern parts of Otago, according to the latest forecasts. Light to gentle breezes are expected inland.Fish & Game has contacted owners of corporate and government sites in the Milton area, requesting assistance with disturbing ducks off private, unshot ponds on opening day to help hunters in the area.Five ranger teams will be checking compliance at both private and public hunting locations across Otago on opening weekend.Hunters are reminded to make firearms safe, present game bird licences when requested, and follow rangers' instructions.Duck hunters planning to hunt in other Fish & Game regions are also being reminded to check local regulations.“Each region has its own set of regulations working in conjunction with the national regulations, these include bag limits and season lengths.”Have a story to share? Let us know how your duck shooting opening weekend goes, email your pictures and we'll publish the best ones.Contact [email protected] Otago Sports Depot

Central Otago police have extra tools to control highway disorder around both the Alexandra Blossom Festival and the New Zealand Merino Shears.The Teviot Valley has now been included in the Central Otago Alcohol Restrictions in Public Places Bylaw, after issues from out of town hoons in recent years.Alexandra Police spoke to the Central Otago District Council yesterday as part of its submission, and said the issues weren’t from drivers, but their passengers engaging in alcohol-fuelled behaviour enroute to the festival.Sergeant Adam Elder said the influx of carloads from Gore, Invercargill and Dunedin - known as the ‘Around the Mountain’ trip, last year resulted in vandalism of the Millers Flat School, and the tavern.Regarding the NZ Merino Shears, the disorder was mostly focused around drinking in stationary vehicles in the carpark and broken glass.In 2024 there was also a serious assault with a weapon and an arson at Raes Junction, and Cr Sally Feinerman, said she had people urinate on her property who were quite intimidating.Senior Sergeant Clint Wright said they wanted to separate the blossom festival from the disorder, and incrementally they have seen a better result in recent years.Cr Martin McPherson, also the Blossom Festival organiser, said they had come a long way since police were making huge arrests at the actual event itself, “but by giving the police the tools we will see a decline in anti-social behaviour.”A report to the council from senior strategy advisor Alix Crosbie, said nine submissions were received in support of the extended alcohol restriction zone and six against.The Teviot Valley has been added to the Blossom Festival Temporary Alcohol Restriction Zone and that timeframe had been extended to include the Merino Shears the following weekend.

Investing in the share market is an integral and essential part of any long-term investment strategy, but it can feel like a roller coaster ride. While market volatility is inevitable and the very reason professional investors invest, there are strategies you can use to navigate these fluctuations and stay on track with your financial goal1. Stay the Course One of the most important principles of investing is to stick with your plan. Market downturns can be unsettling, but reacting impulsively to short-term market movements can be detrimental to your long-term financial health and put your ideal future at risk.Historical data shows that, without exception, markets recover over time, and those who remain invested are rewarded. Remember, you are investing in businesses that make up the market, and those businesses generate long-term profits and growth for shareholders, regardless of what the market does in the short term.For every seller, there is a willing buyer at the other end of the transaction. Market dips are opportunities for professional investors to take advantage of short-term volatility to enhance your longer-term goals and your ideal future.2. Rebalance Your PortfolioProfessional investors regularly rebalance your portfolio for you. Rebalancing involves selling assets that have performed well and buying those that have underperformed, to restore your portfolio to its target allocation.Think of this like stocking up on items you need that are on special at the supermarket. Another key point is that professional investors can also put items back on the shelf that no longer fit with your plans.Disciplined rebalancing is an opportunity to ensure your investment strategy continues to support your long-term goals and helps you live your ideal future.3. Focus on What You Can Control You cannot control market movements, but you can control how you react. Day-to-day market changes have little impact on a well-structured, long-term plan. This includes maintaining a disciplined savings plan and staying informed about how your investments contribute to your ideal future.Avoid making long-term investment decisions based solely on short-term news.Investing is a long-term journey that requires a clear strategy, patience and discipline. Focus on what you can control. Stay calm through the ups and downs of the markets, knowing that these present opportunities to help you achieve your long-term goals and support the life you want to live.

Former Alexandra resident Lisa Kelliher had the honour of representing the New Zealand Army in Belgium on Anzac Day, which had a very personal touch as well.Colonel Kelliher attended the Tyne Cot service and placed a poppy at the memorial of her great uncle Peter Flannery, of Poolburn - a rifleman who was killed in action in Pascendale in 1917.She first dreamed of joining the New Zealand Defence Force while at Dunstan High School, but applied to study accounting and mathematics at the University of Otago before deciding last minute to sit a test and join the armed forces. What made her trip to Belgium even more special this year, was she turned 50 the day after Anzac Day.Col Kelliher has been to South Sudan and Timor and was one of New Zealand’s most decorated soldiers for active service.Brought up at her family’s sheep and beef farm near Alexandra by parents George and Daphne, she is now based in Waiouru but came home to Central Otago at least once a year to visit her father and brother (Gary).Col Kelliher's great uncle was one of two brothers killed in the war from the Flannery family, Peter on the battlefield and Michael in hospital later on.

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

Alexandra’s Nick Collier is still buzzing after strong results in the Canoe Slalom National Championships recently.The paddler secured the Ian Mercer Cup for winning the under 23 men’s K1 (solo kayak), and he earned a swathe of other strong results in the championships.Nick said this summer had been more focused on racing than training.“I’ve paddled in one competition in China, two in Australia, and five in New Zealand. The national championship wraps up the domestic season. Now I'm looking forward to competing at the senior world ups and U23 world championship in Europe, followed by the senior world championship in Sydney, Australia.”Alexandra’s Olympic gold medallist Finn Butcher edged out Australian Olympic friend and rival, Tim Anderson, to win the men's K1 in Tekapo.“Finn was dominant in the kayak cross leading up to the finals; however, he made a mistake, and placed fourth (third New Zealander) behind me, Jayden Parker from Hawkes Bay, and Tim Anderson. “On the back of Finn Butcher's Olympic success, placing above him and becoming the vice-national champion, has me pumped. Only one athlete from each country can attend the Olympics, so as the new Olympic cycle, Los Angeles 2028, begins, I'm happy to kick it off on a high note,” Nick said.Central Otago brothers and former Dunstan High School pupils Tom and Ollie Goldsmith competed at the championships.Tom suffered an injury in training just days before the event and had to pull out of the finals.Ollie Goldsmith came third in the U23 K1 men's and seventh in the men's kayak cross events. Nick said the camaraderie and competition amongst his fellow paddlers is partly what pushes him to succeed.“There's five of us that are neck and neck. That's Tom Goldsmith, [and three who represent Rotorua Awa Sports Club] Oliver Puchner, George Snook, and Michel Uhl. There's a great atmosphere between us."“We're friends on and off the water, except when it comes to kayak cross, then anyone is fair game.“The majority of us have competed alongside and against each other for over a decade now. Having this strong competition is excellent because we push each other to be better.”Nick (on left) alongside Olympic gold winner Finn Butcher. PHOTO: Supplied Nick was awarded the Glass Trophy for men’s C2 (two person canoe) for being the fastest overall with partner Lachie Harkness from the Hawke's Bay, the pair also scooped the Hoffman Cup for under 23 men’s C2.  In under 23 men’s C1 (single person canoe) he placed second, despite it being a secondary discipline for him.“K1 and kayak cross are absolutely my focus; however, the skillset required for C1 has so many crossover benefits to the other disciplines. So I've occasionally implemented C1 into my training program to enhance my performance,” Nick said.The Canoe Slalom New Zealand National Championships hit Tekapo over Easter weekend, hosted by the Central Otago Whitewater club.Paddlers from across the country and a few Australians including Kate Eckhardt, Tim Anderson, and Kayak Cross Olympic champion Noemie Fox turned up the heat on Tekapo’s stunning whitewater course.An aerial view of the Tekapo Whitewater course. PHOTO: SuppliedNick thanked volunteers who attended the national championships and Kellie and Roy Bailey and the Central Otago Whitewater Club for running a successful event. Read more: Locals smash Alexandra backyard ultra running event.Read more: Central Otago Sports Awards finalists announced.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes communities have been consulted on whether they want councils to continue discharging treated effluent into waterways.The Central Otago District Council also made a submission on new draft wastewater environmental standards released by Water Services Authority–Taumata Arowai. The public consultation period closed on April 24.Data released from the district council last week showed Alexandra’s wastewater treatment plant was discharging 1200 cubic metres of treated effluent into the Clutha River every day, compared to Queenstown’s 12,000-24,000cu/m into the Shotover.Cromwell operated under a discharge to water consent as well, but not directly into the Clutha River/Mata-Au, and only released 1700cu/m of its 4400cu/m -7500cu/m limit.Concerns have been raised by some local government leaders about the high levels of non-compliance across all councils - particularly in Queenstown, and questions have been asked about whether the issue was being taken seriously enough.But latest water quality monitoring downstream of the Shotover River that fed into the Kawarau and onto the Clutha, has showed decreasing levels of E.Coli from the emergency discharge consent - recently issued by the Otago Regional Council.Central Otago Deputy Mayor Neil Gillespie told the district council at its last meeting, that while it seemed a huge number from Queenstown, the dilution factor was going to be significant, and that was also backed by Three Waters group manager Julie Muir.The CODC operated seven reticulated waste water reticulated treatment plants (WWTP) under eleven main discharge consents - the Queenstown Lakes District Council had four, with the same number of discharge consents (two currently not active).Regional council staff gave a report for the past year across Waitaki, Clutha, Central Otago, Queenstown Lakes and Dunedin councils, which showed high levels of non-compliance across all districts.There were a total of 21 significant non-compliance, 11 moderate, and nine low risk during the reporting period.Clutha was high, along with Queenstown, but since January, Central Otago’s wastewater consents have been back on track.The QLDC recently admitted publicly it was continuing to risk overflows from its disposal field, which were becoming too much of a health risk.Discharging treated water into the Shotover River was the best outcome in the meantime, until a new disposal option could be found - up to 4 to 5 years.Dr Sara McFall of Taumata Arowai, said the proposed standards would require councils to consistently monitor and report on their wastewater performance in key areas. “The transparency this provides would enable operators and the sector to identify improvement opportunities and also ensure that communities are aware of the environmental impact of this infrastructure and any risks to public health.”Do you have a story idea? contact us [email protected]

A group of Central runners smashed out lap after lap in the first Alexandra Airport carousel backyard ultra running event recently.For Central’s Teresa Noble the goal of 100km had special meaning, she wanted to prove to herself and others that her hidden illness of Crohn’s disease, diagnosed nine years ago, wouldn’t stop her.She’s tried to complete 100km previously but had to withdraw at 75km in an Arrowtown event.Together with running buddy Joel Neilson she completed 16 laps (107km) at 1am on April 20, after starting the event at 9am the day before. Teresa said she was chuffed to bits to complete her goal and the “icing on the cake was doing another lap after”.Joel and Teresa with her t-shirt raising awareness about Crohn's disease. PHOTO: Alexandra Airport Backyard Ultra FacebookIt took months of preparation for the pair and they ran 100km each week as the event got closer.“We focused on running laps at the airport both day and night time, so we were comfortable. We also practiced what we were going to eat on training runs, and then had everything bagged up for each lap.”Having a home advantage, and a huge support crew of friends and family definitely helped the pair.“The Airport is fantastic for both running and biking. The course was awesome, and we would break it up in our heads.“It was so cool that there were planes buzzing around all day, and the beautiful colours of the autumn leaves were stunning. The course kept you interested in every lap.”The day got hotter and by the evening the weather turned, along with having to run with headlamps from lap 10, heavy rain began to fall. Crohn's is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects one in 500-700 of the population, symptoms can vary greatly and for sufferers there are times when symptoms flare up (relapse) and times when there are few or no symptoms (remission).Teresa said despite suffering from a challenging health condition it is important to keep moving for both your mental and physical well being.“It will be tough, but never be afraid to set a goal and accept that there will be failures on the way. This is all part of the journey, and will make you stronger....I promise. Do not let your condition define you.”A backyard ultra is a form of ultramarathon race where competitors must consecutively run a 6.71km course in less than one hour, every hour. After finishing each lap, the remaining time within the hour is used to recover and refuel for the next hour's race. The race finishes when one person completes one more lap than anyone else.The winner was Cromwell’s Kieran Phillip who completed 26 laps, second was Queenstown’s Jub Bryan (25 laps) and third was Ettrick’s Jonty McKinney (24 laps). Last woman standing was Alexandra’s Claudia Cooke who ran 18 laps of the course.   Two local teenage competitors who completed personal bests were Cromwell’s Nevaeh Reddy (six laps) and Alexandra’s Meia Wetherston (four laps).Local runners (from left) during the event Joel, Teresa and Claudia. PHOTO: Alexandra Airport Backyard Ultra FacebookThe Alexandra Airport Backyard Ultra was the brainchild of local trail runners Hannah Presswood and Tom Heath and there were 50 entrants from across the South Island.A portion of the entry fees was donated to Bowel Cancer New Zealand and I am Hope to support these charities with their work with youth mental health and bowel cancer patient support and advocacy.For more about trail running in Central, find the Alexandra Trail Running Group on Facebook, they meet each Tuesday and Thursday 5.30pm at Shaky Bridge.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

A Maniototo curling duo, Jess (27) and Ben Smith (25) are currently competing with the world's best in the World Mixed Doubles Championship in Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada.The siblings earned New Zealand's place in the field at December's world qualifying event in Scotland.The pair, who were raised in Naseby, trained in Calgary for a week with their Canadian coach Kimberly Tuck before heading to Fredericton. Kimberly and husband Wayne were Canadian mixed doubles champions in 2014 and played in the 2015 Winter Games NZ at Naseby."We’re very grateful to have Kim with us and excited to learn from her experience," said Ben."And Jess and I are very excited to finally get our shot at the World Mixed Doubles Championship."The siblings on the ice in a qualifying match against Turkey. PHOTO: Supplied This tournament is their third opportunity to play at the World Championship. They prioritised their careers in 2019, and the 2020 event was a casualty of Covid-19."We are aiming to do ourselves, our community, our sponsors and everyone who has supported us proud. We want to represent New Zealand Curling to the best of our ability."To date the Smiths have played three times in the world championships, with a loss to Estonia, a win against Spain and a loss to the United States. Their next match up is today (5am NZ time, on April 29) against Norway and then Japan at 1am on April 30. The venue in Fredericton is where Nat Thurlow and Hans Frauenlob earned a fifth placing for NZ in 2013.Ben in action in a match against Latvia last year. PHOTO: Supplied There are ten teams in two groups in the mixed doubles. The Smith pair are in group B together with Australia, Czech Republic, Spain, Estonia, Japan, Norway, Switzerland, Turkey, and the United States.Ben and Jess both play on national teams for curling and have represented NZ at World Championships and Pan Continental Championships.Ben is the third in a team with Anton Hood, Brett Sargon, Hunter Walker and Jarec Palanuik (alternate) and Jess is the skip for the women’s team of Courtney Smith, Bridget Becker, Holly Thompson and Natalie Thurlow (alternate).  The world senior championships are being held alongside the mixed doubles. The men’s team is Dave Watt, Iain Craig, Lorne DePape, Dean Fotti and Tom Telfer. They will be keen to emulate their success from the last time the world seniors were in Fredericton. Lorne DePape was a member of the 2013 team who bagged the silver medal, NZ’s best result at this event.Jo Olszewski, Sandra Thomas, Liz Matthews, Merran Anderson and Juliet Charko will fly the flag for the NZ Women. Liz Matthews also returns from the 2013 team.Both tournaments started on Saturday April 26, with the finals decided a week later. Stay up to date with results and updates on NZ Curling social media pages.Read more: Women’s curling lessons coming to Alex.Read more: Winter sports underway in mild conditions. Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Queenstown Airport is launching its next major capital project, extending the terminal north to add 800m² of new office and operational space for Air New Zealand, Planebiz, and Aviation Security. Over 14 months, the project will deliver modern workspaces, upgraded security areas, and significant electrical improvements, including a new transformer and power centre.“This will give airline staff a much better work environment and improve operational efficiency,” says project manager Greg Emms.The $12 million project, scheduled for completion in early 2027, will also enhance the airport’s resilience. “Queenstown Airport is an essential community asset, and we need to ensure our criticalinfrastructure is robust,” Emms adds.Meanwhile, $10 million is being invested in seismic strengthening of the terminal, including steelwork, bracing, and reinforced columns. Work is underway and will continue at night for the next 17 months to improve safety and earthquake preparedness.“This seismic strengthening project underscores Queenstown Airport’s commitment to the safety of our passengers, staff, and wider community,” says Chief Operating Officer Todd Grace.*Please note the image does not show the Airport Emergency Service base beside the tower

Next month Central women can try curling, and learn from one of the nation’s best. Ice master John Campbell will run sessions and his daughter Natalie Thurlow will attend some days and play in the Wednesday league after the introductory month. Becks resident Natalie is a six-time New Zealand women's curling champion, a two-time NZ mixed doubles champion and a NZ Curling representative.She first started curling on the outdoor rink in Alexandra as a 13 year old. “We practiced outdoors at night, in the freezing cold and I probably only carried on for a start because Dad wanted me to. “Luckily I did, as it has opened up so many amazing opportunities in my life to travel, compete and make friends,” Nat said.Her reason for coaching was she loved to see the sport grow, and the rinks flourish, she said.“Curling is a sport for everyone.”Ice rink manager Bill Roxburgh said curling is a fun activity and indoor curling doesn’t need a lot of strength. “We have young school groups, seniors and have had people in wheelchairs play. Coaches Bruce and John are on hand to show new groups how to play as part of coming along.”The four Wednesday morning sessions are a chance for individuals to try the sport and join a group to play, they start on May 21, and there is a $5 charge per session. If demand warrants it there will be a Woman’s Wednesday league, from June 18, at a discounted rate. Bill said after the introductory lessons participants can relax in the warm lounge and have a coffee afterwards. “After the four introduction sessions we will help form teams to continue in their own league. “Our social league on Thursday nights has 42 teams of four… and a lot of women help make up these social teams, so [there is] another progression from learning.” If you are keen on trying curling bring along warm clothing as cool and sturdy gym shoes.For more information contact [email protected] or call 03 448 8599.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]