An influx of international families moving into Central Otago has seen job vacancies filled and school rolls boosted.Welcoming Communities officer Heather Harries has been working with these new families who have come from Sri Lanka, India, The Philippines, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Chile, Argentina, and Nicaragua.She has also assisted them with their English through her role with Central Otago REAP.“The community is starting to see the vibrancy that the diversity brings,” she said.Welcoming Week in Central Otago will take place from September 6-16, and Heather in her role for the Central Otago District Council along with graphic designer Mark Fenton, have been putting together a video of some of the many families speaking their home language.This will be launched on Monday, September 9.Heather said some of the families had moved here for work in the caregiver industry, with some now employed at Ranui in Alexandra, and others were working in various trades.But there were many adjustments they have endured after moving to Central Otago, such as understanding the very colloquial Kiwi accents, lack of public transport and generally adapting to everyday New Zealand life.“We are one of the fastest speakers in the world. So, the best thing people can do is slow down,” she said.Teaching Kiwi slang is part of her role at REAP, in helping the families understand why everything in New Zealand is “sweet as,” and why “ta” is actually somebody saying thanks and not that they are ‘done’.  “Slang dominates informal conversation in the construction industry and most new migrants have been taught formal English, so it is like a whole new language.”Schools have also played a part in helping new families become adjusted to Central Otago life, including The Terrace primary school that has its own ‘Tribe’ group to support children from overseas.Principal Sarah Graham said they’ve seen a noticeable increase in student numbers in the first two terms of this year, and St Gerards also confirmed its role was the biggest in 20 years, with a significant number of international families.“Our numbers in the first half of the year are comparable to what we've typically seen for an entire year on average,” Sarah said.The ‘Drive My Life’ academy further helped families with getting a licence and gaining experience on our roads, so they could start exploring the region more.“It’s so important for them to have that independence,” Heather said. 

As the 67th Blossom Festival nears, last year’s winner is encouraging people to get involved with the fun-filled weekend.Myah Turnbull spoke with The Outlet podcast producer Brent Harbour in today’s episode reflecting on her experiences of the festival while growing up in Central, entering as a princess, and then being crowned queen on the main stage last year.“It was an amazing experience . . . I was so happy to be involved in all the community events leading up to the day. [I] loved making connections in the community such as the rest homes and the art shows.”Myah said her advice to people thinking about entering as a princess was to “totally do it”.“I would never hold back on it and I would tell everyone to get involved. Just be yourself, put yourself out in the community and be really authentic because that's what they're looking for.”She said the committee and the community support behind the festival were the secret to its endurance and growing attendance numbers. “The passion that the community and the committee has for this event is definitely the reason why it's fun and well organised.”The crowning of the queen has been a feature for the last 67 years. Following tradition, the previous year’s queen crowns the new queen each year. Crowned: 2023 Alexandra Blossom Festival Queen Myah Turnbull (centre) with first runner up Tyla Davidson (left) and second runner up Arlia Murphy. PHOTO: James Allan/IMAGE CENTRALLike many people with friends and family connections in Central, Myah's looking forward to the festival weekend, where she’ll pass on the crown and listen to the bands.“The atmosphere is probably my favourite thing. Just seeing everyone in one place is [so] cool. “I’ve always loved the annual clock race at the Linger and Die [Reserve] on the Friday night, so I definitely would say get along to that.”Myah has been studying at Otago Polytechnic this year, where she’s completing a New Zealand certificate course in community health and wellbeing - mental health and addiction support.Read more: Big read: Our Community ChampionsRead more: Florrey entries urgently neededRead more: Blossy early bird tickets on sale now

A 37-year-old Christchurch woman who recently created mayhem in a Cromwell motel, returned to Central Otago and did the same thing at another accommodation business in Alexandra.Police were called to an incident of disorder by the motel owners, after the woman started throwing things around the room.Using the room for ‘night work’ purposes on both occasions, she was picked up by police and transported to Queenstown before trying to attack the officers.Senior Constable Graham Perkins said they put a spit hood on the woman, but she continued to be aggressive, and a female officer from Wānaka was called in to carry out a search.“She then started pulling out her hair and trying to get naked,” he said.Police kept her on constant monitoring overnight before mental health services were called.Snr Const Perkins said the woman, who had breached her bail, was meant to be residing in Dunedin.She was charged with assaulting police, disorderly behaviour and possession of cannabis and utensils.A Wānaka woman, who also had a warrant for arrest after failing to appear in court, bit a police officer on the hand and wrist, after opening the door to what she thought was a courier driver.Snr Const Perkins said she also had a spit hood placed on her and was transported to Queenstown, charged with resisting arrest and assaulting an officer.Building sites in Wānaka have been targeted by offenders on several occasions recently, but serial numbers on tools had obviously stopped anything being taken, Snr Const Perkins said.One builder noted his business had been watched by two men during the day while workers were on site, and he promptly told them to leave.A man who fell asleep at the wheel of his car at Shingle Creek on Wednesday, faces a careless driving charge after crashing into a bank.Snr Const Perkins said the man had been spoken to by police at Lawrence and admitted to being tired and was planning on having a sleep. A 23-year-old Alexandra man has also been charged with burglary, after admitting taking $1800 worth of tyres and wheels from his former employer, after being caught on CCTV.

Now is “traditionally” the season to light vegetation fires responsibly, but failing to take the right precautions can have dire consequences, Fire and Emergency New Zealand (Fenz) warns.Fire crews have attended numerous callouts to vegetation fires across wider Otago in recent weeks, including one at Becks on Monday, which Omakau, Blackstone and Dunstan crews attended.Crews across East Otago have also had a series of callouts in recent weeks, which has required helicopters in some cases, a cost that is paid for by Fenz.Fenz advisor risk reduction for the Otago District Mark Mawhinney said while now was usually the right time of the year for burning unwanted vegetation waste, people should remain cautious.He said that meant checking the weather forecast before burning and remaining vigilant over the days it continues to burn and smoulder.“The thing catching people out at this time of year is the wind and that’s what’s caused these fires to become a problem,” he said.“While it’s a good time to burn . . . people do still need to be careful.”He said, in some cases the burns are quite big, which means they can remain burning or smouldering “for weeks”.Those fires should be monitored regularly, along with the weather and if wind starts to pick up, the fire should be buried or extinguished.“With wind picking up, embers travel so other grass can catch fire.”Mark said unpredictable weather meant it was a “real catch-22”.“It’s a delicate balance.”However, help was always at hand, he said.He encourages anyone wanting advice to contact Fenz.“If they haven’t done much burning before we’re happy to come out and take a look, free of charge.”To enquire about receiving advice in Central Otago and the Queenstown Lakes email [email protected] but in an emergency dial 111.Visit the Fenz website to learn more about outdoor and rural fire safety.

Increased living costs haven't stopped Central residents from digging deep for the Cancer Society’s Daffodil Day appeal.The annual fundraiser returned to the streets of Central on Friday, giving people a chance to donate to the cause, while groups also came up with creative ways to pull in some dollars.Among them was The Terrace School, which raised $471 with a mufti-day and barbecue fundraiser.Puna Rangatahi, the Alexandra and District’s Youth Trust, joined in the efforts by hosting a bake sale in Roxburgh, which raised about $1000.Daffodils are in bloom, the flower that represents the Cancer Society's annual appeal. PHOTO: Anna WinterTrust manager Tash Kane said Roxburgh Area School students in the social studies class made the baking, while those in the Mahi Mātātoa, an adventure-based programme, also helped sell the baking alongside daffodils outside the town’s supermarket.“As part of that programme is a volunteer day, so we reached out to Volunteer South, and they put us in touch with the Cancer Society.”Fulton Hogan in collaboration with Soul Fitness gym also supported the cause with a collection, led by Anna Winter.Members of Soul Fitness were among those who got behind Daffodil Day last Friday. PHOTO: Anna WinterAnna, who is a department manager at Fulton Hogan and an active member of the gym, said about $650 cash was raised on the day, while more was donated via a QR code, but she was not sure exactly how much.“The support I received from everyone was brilliant. It was quite overwhelming how generous people were and how many people are touched by cancer.”Cancer Society Otago Southland volunteer partner Kelly Hoskin said final figures from the day had not yet been collated, but overall people were keen to give, and their support had created a “positive vibe” to the day.“People are really pleased with how it went, which was good.”This year’s theme for the Daffodil Day appeal is ‘one in three could be me’, highlighting the fact one in three people will get cancer in our lifetime and it does not discriminate.Anyone who still wants to donate money to the cause can do so via the Cancer Society’s Daffodil Day website.The Central App also caught up with Southern Cancer Society head of funding Jonet Warhurst ahead of the appeal, who talked about the cause on The Outlet podcast.Read more: Volunteers unite for Daffodil Day

Does spring begin on the first day of September? Or does it start on September 23 - the perfect middle point between the winter and summer equinox?Principal scientist at the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) Chris Brandolino is American, and sees spring as starting on 23 September."We kind of follow the astronomical definition of the seasons, which is marked by the sun crossings of [an] imaginary line on the Earth, whereas other parts of the world, including New Zealand . . . they go by the meteorological or climatological definition of the season, so there's two sets of definitions."Why do we see it differently here? Well, following meteorological dates and dividing seasons into three-month chunks keeps things tidy and is helpful we want to look at the average temperature and rainfall during the season, Brandolino told Nights.The so-called spring equinox in the Northern Hemisphere goes right down to the minute, with this year's one starting September 23, 2024 at 12.43am.The seasons in this definition are determined by the sun crossing an imaginary line across the equator at 23.5 degrees, either north or south, twice a year - giving us the shoulder seasons known as autumn and spring.Why do we care so much about seasons?Seasons are a human construct that give structure to our way of life and have historically been useful for determining things like harvesting.But the seasons in terms of their practical sense are getting longer and shorter, largely because of climate change, Brandolino said."The winter season, that's getting shorter. We're seeing frosts happen later, the first frost, and we're seeing the latest frost happen sooner. So, what happens is that it's kind of shrinking on both ends and then this is a long-term trend."Whatever definition you subscribe to, astronomical or meteorological . . . we are seeing that the types of weather we are experiencing during those seasons evolve with time."Does spring begin on the first day of September? Or does it start on September 23 - the perfect middle point between the winter and summer equinox? Photo: UnsplashStill, that doesn't mean you wouldn't expect the coldest temperatures to be around the same time of the year in the future, he said."If we hop on a time machine and we exit the time machine 70 years from now, we will still have the coldest temperatures, if you were to kind of graph when the warmest weather occurs versus the coolest weather, it'll be in the winter season, it just won't be as cold."So what can you expect this spring?This outlook for spring was the 'theme' for the season, not a forecast, Brandolino advised."Weather is your mood, climate is your personality. So, what I'm describing here is Mother Nature, is basically her personality for the next three months. Now, on any given day during the next three months, her mood may be incongruent with her personality."NIWA is confident about a warmer than average spring for eastern parts of the north and south islands. Other parts of the country could experience a warm lean too, but NIWA's confidence on that is lower."So, we're thinking either average or above average, and that's about equal chances. But to put differently, a colder than average spring is pretty darn unlikely over the next three months," Brandolino said."So, days where we get this unusual warmth, maybe more common than what say typically spring offers, which is a moody season. It's the teenager of seasons because you have these wild swings between winter which we've just exited and summer which we are approaching."The eastern side of both islands are also leaning towards a dry lean, but there is some uncertainty there so it's unclear if rainfall will be average or below average at this point.The west and top of the South Island and the west of the North Island was leaning towards being more wet, with normal or above normal rainfall. And the top of the North Island could see near normal rainfall for the seasons.Baby lambs have been born and daffodils are in bloom - it's starting to feel like spring has sprung. Photo: Unsplash

Clyde Orchards general manager Kris Robb has been recognised for his leadership in New Zealand’s horticulture industry.Kris won the President's Trophy, which was presented by Horticulture New Zealand at the annual industry conference gala dinner held in Tauranga last weekend. The President's Trophy recognises passion for working on behalf of the horticulture industry, as well as a commitment to developing as a business leader and successful grower.Kris said he was a bit overwhelmed and honoured when he found out about the award.“There are 4500 growers in the country. A lot of passionate, hardworking growers out there that do a lot.“I don’t think I’ve done anything special . . . anything I’ve done is to try to benefit our business. If I can make our place better and if it flows on and benefits others, then that’s good.”Kris has worked at Clyde Orchards for the past 12 years and has been in the role of general manager since 2020. He is president of the Central Otago Fruit Growers Association and serves on a number of other industry committees.During Covid-19, he worked to secure New Zealand labour for Central through his independent work on social media and contribution to other industry initiatives.He has produced 60 videos to tell the story of life on the orchard, helping to lift the profile of horticulture in Central along with educating and entertaining the local community with the complexities of fruit production. Kris said good leaders enabled those around them, developed a well-rounded team and were not scared of getting their hands dirty.“A good leader is leading from the front . . . they identify their own weaknesses and will bring people in to support them and strengthen these areas.”Looking forward to the 2024/2025 season Kris said his and his team's focus was to make a “conscientious effort to do what we’re doing, [cherries and flat peaches], really well.”“In the future there is really cool technology coming in and available and it will be exciting to see what this will bring.“For the post-harvest area exciting technology and efficiencies are available to be implemented. A big question will be do we have the scale to justify this investment, partnerships and consolidation will need to be considered.”Kris was a guest speaker at the conference sharing his experiences of improving recruitment and building strong relationships with recognised seasonal employees (RSE) to empower workers and build success.“There were great presentations right through the RSE and horticulture conferences," he said.“Government officials from the Pacific Islands were there and shared their perspectives of the programme and where it is going, which was valuable.”Other major prize winners in 2024 were Dr Stuart Davis and John Dine.Dr Davis, sustainability manager for LeaderBrand in Auckland, was presented with the organisation’s Bledisloe Cup for outstanding and meritorious contribution to the industry.Hawke’s Bay industry consultant John Dine was presented with the Industry Service Award, which recognises long and dedicated service to a supplier or service role and working beyond the call of duty for the betterment of the industry. Last year’s winner of the Presidents Trophy was Colin Jenkins who was general manager of Ngai Tukairangi land trust who produce kiwifruit on the Matapihi peninsula, Tauranga.   

It all started with just some men and buckets of water, but 150 years later the Cromwell Volunteer Fire Brigade is still going strong.And on Monday night the brigade decided to recognise this milestone, by holding its monthly meeting at exactly 8pm on September 2 - the same day and time as it first met back in 1874.The Mayor of Cromwell at the time David Anderson Jolly held a public meeting at the town hall to form the brigade after reading about “disasters” in Dunedin where businesses had lost property through a series of fires.Cromwell Volunteer Fire Brigade members will soon be celebrating the station's 150th anniversary. PHOTO: Lisa Hill Mr T. Fergus thought the idea of a fire brigade a praiseworthy one, and moved the mayor’s motion that a brigade be formed at once, and instantly 22 names were signed up.“An organisation of men, even with buckets, could do much towards extinguishing a fire,” he said at the meeting, which was reported in the Cromwell Argus at the time.Cromwell Volunteer Fire Brigade chief fire officer Neil Gillespie said preparations were also underway to celebrate the 150th anniversary between October 11 and 13, which 120 people had registered to attend.The event will start with a gathering of past and present members on the Friday night, followed by an open day for the public to attend on the Saturday, with formal proceedings following on that night, including its annual honours by Fire and Emergency New Zealand.

Everyone can learn about how Central Otago’s environment is connected to the marine system at a free session in Cromwell tomorrow afternoon.The University of Otago Aquavan brings live marine critters and touch pools to schools and communities, to create awareness and understanding of the connectivity between river health and the coastal environment.Specially designed to transport marine species, the van is equipped with chilled re-circulating seawater tanks and a mobile touch tank to support hands-on learning.Attendees will learn about how sea salt, climate and geology link in Central to create special habitats for plants and invertebrates.The Aquavan contains fun hands-on activities. PHOTO: James Jubb/ Southland Regional CouncilAquavan is visiting Cromwell College from 3.30pm - 6pm, all ages are welcome, and afternoon tea will be provided. If you have any questions about the visit contact Enviroschools facilitator Lucy Franke on [email protected] more: Central’s ancient vegetation to be revealed Read more: Predator monitoring protects Thomsons Wetland birdlife

Many borrowers across the country breathed a sigh of relief recently when the Reserve Bank decided to cut interest rates by 0.25 basis points in response to a weakening economy and inflation nearing their target range. Though a modest change, it signals a gradual decline in interest rates for the foreseeable future.Kiwibank was quick to respond, lowering rates soon after the announcement, followed closely by other major banks such as ASB and ANZ.The impact on New Zealand’s housing market will be varied. As a softer labour market, job security and costs of living continue to influence activity and values. However, the property market in Central Otago has shown remarkable resilience and growth, with key metrics indicating a positive trend.Search activity on Trade Me Property in Central Otago has increased by 12% compared to July last year, suggesting growing interest from potential buyers and investors. New listings on Trade Me at a regional level are up by 23%, highlighting a strong supply of properties entering the market. While Otago, as a whole, has seen an even greater increase of 39%, the growth in the Central Otago district is particularly significant, reflecting the region's appeal. This surge in listings not only offers more houses for sale for potential buyers but also demonstrates the confidence of sellers in the market’s potential.Properties listed on Trade Me are now selling 2% faster than before, a clear sign of the high demand for homes in Central Otago. The demand for properties is increasing and buyers are acting quickly. Central Otago is becoming a competitive real estate market where well-priced homes are swiftly snapped up. Properties priced under $800,000 are the most popular in Central Otago, with searches and sales in this price range increasing significantly over the past three months. This mirrors a national trend in New Zealand, where there is strong buyer interest in more affordable homes. The surge in this segment reflects the region’s accessibility to a broader range of buyers, including first-time homeowners and investors looking for value.The latest figures show that house prices in Central Otago have risen by 4%, according to the most recent price index. This steady increase in property values indicates strong demand for real estate in the area, making it an attractive destination for both investors and homeowners seeking long-term gains.Out of 70 areas across New Zealand, Central Otago is one of only three regions experiencing growth in the property market. This unique position underscores the region's appeal, driven by its scenic beauty, quality of life, and investment potential. As Central Otago continues to thrive despite economic challenges, the region’s unique blend of opportunity and appeal makes it a standout destination for both local and international home-buyers alike.

WoolOn is over for another year with Allison MacKay’s creation, titled ‘Mr Fungi’, taking out the Supreme Award during the event’s 20th anniversary.Allison’s work of art, which was inspired by her family’s love of mushrooms, was made from hand crochet wool, and featured interlocking fibres representing mycelium strands, champions of decomposition and renewal. “It is such a surprise, I started working on it a year ago when my daughter gave my husband a mushroom pack as a father's day gift and that was my inspiration.” A sellout crowd of more than 500 people packed out the Alexandra Bowling Club for the gala event, many having travelled from outside the area to be in attendance.  WoolOn event coordinator and deputy chair Jamie Richards said the increase in demand and the heightened anticipation for WoolOn this year has been both “heartwarming and reassuring”.“WoolOn is a great opportunity to experience the cultural and creative significance of wool here in the heart of Otago. This year we have been overwhelmingly impressed by the standard of the designers, it is without doubt our best showcase yet”.Allison MacKay’s creation, titled ‘Mr Fungi’.Daphne Randle's creation titled 'Autumn is Over' was runner-up. Second runner-up in the novice section was awarded to Jan Fraser for her creation titled Ka Tiritiri o te Moana Waimakariri.This year also marks the 20th anniversary of the event, a milestone that is not taken for granted.“WoolOn has evolved a lot over the past 20 years and is now more relevant than ever as we all seek more sustainable ways to live,” Jamie said.“We are ambitious about what we can achieve in positively promoting the sustainability of wool with this proudly Alexandra based event in the years to come.” All WoolOn entries have to be 75 per cent wool, a challenge that tests a designer's skill and creativity while showcasing the abundant qualities of the material.  While the New Zealand fashion industry has had several challenges this year, Central Otago has seen an increase in local designers as well as demand for the use of sustainable materials.   Judge Liz Mitchell, an Auckland based fashion designer, also praised the event.“This has been a really exciting evening. Alexandra is such a great choice for the venue and great to see the community support.” Judge Margi Robertson, of Dunedin based label NomD*, recognised the efforts of the many designers.“It’s incredible to see the amount of hand work that has gone into many of the garments. It’s pretty amazing.” Judge Christina Perriam, founder of merino brand Perriam, also acknowledged the skills people were utilising to craft from wool.“It’s so awesome to see how people are using wool, it’s such an amazing fibre, even young people are making amazing things with it, it’s great to see them coming through.”PHOTOS: Lisa Hill

The Alexandra-based Hawkeswood Mining company is very happy that its Millers Flat gold mine has been approved and the company can get on with its 10-year project.Operations Manager Simon Johnstone said they had spent close to $2.5 million on the joint Otago Regional/Central Otago District Council consent application, and would be fully operating within the next month.Hawkeswood Mining Ltd expects to create up to 30 jobs and inject an estimated $5 to $7 million annually into the local community with its mine on the banks of the Clutha Mata-Au River.Commissioners Louise Taylor, Craig Welsh and Rosalind Day-Cleavin released their decision last week, granting the 10-year consent but reducing the proposed water take to just six years.In their decision they said the potential adverse effects of the proposal were either minor or minimised to the extent practicable, or were otherwise suitably avoided, remedied, mitigated or offset by the imposition of appropriate conditions of consent.All 475 submissions were closely regarded, and some submitters raised concerns about the impact of the proposal on private property prices and commercial ventures.But the commissioners said in their decision, the direct effects of an activity on the environment were the primary consideration for our decision. “Any indirect effect on property prices or suchlike are not relevant matters we can consider in our decision. We have carefully and thoroughly considered the direct environmental effects of the proposal, including on people and communities, throughout this decision."One of the conditions of the consent was to ensure that mining work did not prevent public access to the Clutha Gold cycle trail. However, the cycle trail may be temporarily diverted in accordance with the Master Plan, to enable ongoing public use and access. 

Haehaeata Natural Heritage Trust’s (HNHT) upcoming AGM will feature a speech by a Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research expert, offering insights into Central Otago's ancient landscape. The event, which everyone is welcome to attend, will include a segment by Dr Matt McGlone who plans to speak for 45 minutes on ‘a vegetation history of the dry heart of New Zealand; Central Otago from the last ice age to the present’.Matt said he would cover the long history of what's gone on - from 18,000 years ago to the present day, which would help us to understand what the future looks like.His work includes analysing fossils from moa nests and coprolites (moa poo) from Central, including Earnscleugh and the Cromwell Gorge.Matt said Central was a fascinating area and one of the most affected by human settlement.“Central Otago was affected by fire 600 to 700 years ago. Māori burnt the area fairly substantially.“It was podocarp, beech, totara, kanuka, toatoa, grey scrub and a few areas of low grassland . . . all the trees were obliterated.“The birdlife we used to have would have been quite amazing . . . the intermediate vegetation was dominant over the eastern South Island.”With modern techniques of fossil analysis, Matt will explain how science is getting closer to the truth of the past.“Until recently, people thought waves of long tussock was the native vegetation of Central Otago. "Matt will also talk about climate changes coming for Central and trends facing the district. “It will be warmer in summer, increased evaporation… . . . not as many southerlies or big fronts coming through. [A likelihood of] some very dry years.”The AGM is on September 12 at 7pm in St Enoch's Church lounge and people need to RSVP online.Find out more about the talk on The Central App's notices section.

A new online course to help people with public speaking is kicking off in Central this month.Lisa Coppins, who grew up in Alexandra and attended Dunstan High School when she was younger, has been to the United States to undertake Toastmasters training and to attend a convention.She’s launching a six week programme for 10 - 20 people called ‘Speechcraft’ on Monday nights from 7.30pm - 9.00pm. Its aim is to help others grow in confidence and have fun while they learn.“It’s a learn by doing format and [people] can expect to be practically involved . . . each time you are taught a new element, you'll be adding this into your speech project.”The course covers how to control your fear, topic choice, introducing a speaker, speech structure, knowing your speech purpose, using body language, how to give effective feedback and using vocal variety. Lisa said there will be about an hour's work in between each weekly session to prepare a speech to deliver the following week. Her involvement in Toastmasters came from a work performance review, and she initially completed the course she is now leading.Lisa, a vet nurse in Temuka, also runs her own dog-training business.“As a student at Dunstan High School, I absolutely hated public speaking, I hated being the centre of attention, I'm sure I am one of the least likely people that my teachers would have expected to see doing something like this.”Her confidence grew, she joined the local Toastmasters club, and now her role includes growing new clubs which she hopes to do in Alexandra.“I have filled most of the club leadership roles, and over the last couple of years I have taken leadership roles beyond club level. I am currently serving as the club growth director for . . . the Wellington region and the South Island. “My favourite thing now is watching others achieve. I especially love seeing the improvement of new members, and watching them grow into amazing speakers and leaders is what keeps me going each week."Toastmasters has been helping people develop communication and leadership skills since 1924. Toastmasters international currently has over 280,000 members in 14,700 clubs worldwide. Run almost entirely by volunteers, it is one of the most affordable self-development programmes available.Interested people can contact Lisa on 0277669211 or email [email protected] to find out more. The Speechcraft course is $20 and you need to be over 18 years old. Youth leadership programmes for teens aged 14-18 are a future possibility too, please contact Lisa if you would like to find out more. 

Welcome to our second edition of Community Champions, celebrating the remarkable individuals who make our communities special. Today we feature Alexandra's Martin McPherson.He was a renowned Christchurch event promoter and king of PR, schmoozing over lavish, three-hour champagne lunches during the heydays of a booming, 1980s, pre-crash sharemarket.Rubbing shoulders with music greats, Martin McPherson was destined to organise events.From the tender age of 10 his mum recalled him making his stage promoter debut, capitalising on the family of dancers next door.“The two girls did ballet, and the boy did tap so I organised a concert, dragging the furniture into the driveway, and charging the local kids to come.”It's a skill that Martin’s honed for over 50 years, and one that’s ensured the survival and success of the Alexandra Blossom Festival, now in its 67th year.Born on Christmas Eve, 1956, Martin was given up for adoption but that fell through leaving him unwanted and destined for an orphanage at 10 months old until his adopted mother, who’d fostered him as a newborn, brought him home.Martin celebrating his Christmas birthday, last year. PHOTO: SuppliedHis mum sent a telegram to his father, a shoe factory manager who was overseas for work, and said, ‘You know that baby we had at Christmas, we’re keeping him.“Dad didn’t have much choice,” Martin grins.He went to St Albans School then St Andrews College and Mairehau High School where he was elected prefect only to be vetoed by the principal.“I had a dubious academic career. I was above average, but my school reports said, ‘could do better’, ‘easily distracted’.”Leaving school in 1972, Martin worked in retail for Symon and Lowther, then menswear boutique Mathew & Son selling “seriously flared trousers, platform shoes and seersucker shirts”.Martin the male model in 1982. PHOTO: SuppliedHe had a “brief flirtation” with a modelling career and downtime was spent surfing.The family’s colour television had arrived in 1974 in time to watch the Christchurch Commonwealth Games.Martin hitched around New Zealand before breaking into the music industry, as the Canterbury University Students Association’s culture and entertainment manager, attracting bands like Chris Knox and The Enemy.He was flatting with the designer of Flying Nuns’ logo and always putting posters up for pub gigs.“I was active on the fringe of Christchurch music scene.“I’d always wanted to be on stage but had no talent. I wanted to bathe in that reflective glory and the best way was to organise other people.”Christchurch’s music scene was pretty spartan.Bands did gigs in halls, charging $2 admission, events frequently turned over by police.It was the beginning of punk rock, so Martin started his own events.“We were breaking new ground.”He was a booking agent for the likes of Toy Love, The Androids, rubbing shoulders with Iggy Pop and Tom Jones.He earned a reputation and gravitated into PR, working for renowned American company Hill & Knowlton in Christchurch.“It was pre-1987 sharemarket crash. The champagne was flowing. We wore $1000 silk suits and hosted three-hour long lunches.”The events were grand affairs, requiring grand entrances.Martin’s most embarrassing moment came after his Trustbank Canterbury 25th anniversary event in the Christchurch Town Hall.The history was portrayed through four nights with bank uniform fashion parades and hits of the previous 25 years played by the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, led by leading NZ conductor Sir William Southgate.“I had my ‘cans’ (headphones) on backstage and he called me out on stage. Mum was in the fifth row, centre. The chord got caught and my cans went flying off my head one way and I went the other in front of 3000 people!”His next role was more anonymous – Ronald McDonald for client McDonald’s, opening a new Christchurch outlet - Ronald’s entire 1000-page manual had to be memorised.However, in 1987 Martin’s whirlwind world came to an end with the sudden shock of the sharemarket crash.“PR was the first to go. The American company pulled out of NZ, and we tried on our own, but PR had dried up,” he says.“Overnight, friends who were millionaires on paper, ended up losing their homes and their parents’ homes. The late 80s and early 90s were terrible times,” Martin says.Martin at Canterbury Cup Day in 1985, a highlight of his PR career. PHOTO: SuppliedChristchurch Mayor Sir Hamish Hay asked Martin to manage a youth facility aimed at unemployed street kids with glue sniffing rife.“It was horrific. There was a lot of pain. On dole day afternoons we had Kiwi bands play by the Avon for free and we ran dances.”Herbs played and Martin called favours on the local Black Power and Mongrel Mob gangs to man security, ensuring they were on ‘neutral turf’.The Christchurch City Council entrusted him with grant funding to help street kids.“The only ones who turned up to help were the Salvation Army, so they got the money.”Martin has helped them in return every year since.Martin and his dog, Alfie, collecting for The Salvation Army. PHOTO: SuppliedHe’s worked in radio promotions with big names like James Daniels, Gary McCormick and Simon Barnett, organised Summertimes Festivals and boosted hospitality takings, staging successful music events.The HART (Halt All Racist Tours) protest promoter from the 1981 Springbok Tour was doing Rugby World Cup promotions for the NZ Rugby Union by 1991.But Martin had, had an epiphany while organising a 1989 New Year’s Eve party at Oliver’s in Clyde for Fleur Sullivan.“I looked up at the stars and knew in my bones I’d end up in Central Otago.”His brother lived in Letts Gully and in 1993 Martin scored a job as Alexandra Promotions manager organising events like the Alexandra Blossom Festival.“I was the slick kid from the city and the town literally stood back with their arms folded.”Martin with one of his favourite acts - Lady Killers (from left) Tina Cross, Jacqui Clarke and Annie Crummer at the 65th Blossom Festival in 2022. PHOTO: SuppliedHis proposal to change the route of the festival parade had one woman threatening to leave town.“I volunteered to help her pack, but there was no animosity. People thought I would fall over but I earned their respect.”In 2002 – the year his mum died, and his ex-girlfriend discovered she was pregnant, he was made redundant only to be invited back in 2009 with the festival in financial strife.Those preceding years were tough, Martin working as a Stop & Go man and in an orchard packhouse, but daughter Sophie, now 22, became his shining light.“I had her for her first sleepover at 10 days,” he says, proudly.Martin and life partner Christine brought Sophie up from age 9.A Central Otago District councillor for over 20 years and former chair of the Vincent Community Board, Martin reckons he does his best work in the supermarket.He’s proud to have turned the Blossom Festival, costing $250,000 a year, around, through sponsorship and gate sales, with market stalls bringing in $20,000 and a Food and Wine Festival introduced.“It’s like a giant jig-saw puzzle. I start in January and do the sky, corners and bottom and by early August I get concerned as I think I’ve lost a couple of pieces,” he says.And well, the weather’s out of his hands.Even a bid for prayer from Father O’Brien, concerned that Martin’s Catholic mum had married a Protestant, once prompted the cheeky reply: “Son, knowing your history I could only go down on one knee for you,” Martin grins.Read more: Big read: Our Community ChampionsRead more: Funding to help promote blossom festival nationwideDo you have someone in the community you'd like to nominate as our Community Champion for the 1st of October? Contact Us and let us know who and why. Thank you! We love to share stories about the heroes walking the streets of Central.

The Central App continues to thrive, with rising user engagement and new features helping keep the community connected and informed.It has become a ‘go-to platform’ for many people across the district and beyond, with a reach of 80 per cent of the Central Otago adult population, serving both residents and visitors.Owner manager Vicki McLean said aside from the growing reach, it also has more than 500,000 app and website visits each month, illustrating just how valuable the service has become with our regulars using the app daily for news and information.“Whether it’s finding out what’s happening around town or looking up local businesses, the app has become a trusted source of information. I couldn't be more proud of what the team has acheived.”She said the team behind The Central App do not just report on the community—they’re part of it. “With all members living and working in Central Otago, they bring a local perspective that helps ensure the content is relevant and meaningful. Their deep ties to the area mean they know what matters to the community, and that’s reflected in what you see on the app.”Team members from left to right: Anna Robb (Reporter) Alexia Anderson (Editor) Vicki McLean (Owner) Caitlyn Thomson (Client support) Sarah Calder (Admin) Aimee Wilson (Reporter) missing Sierra Connell (Marketing) PHOTO: The Central AppVicki said The Central App’s reach continues to grow beyond just your phone screen. Last month, Google analytics showed 21,265 people used the app over 87,000 times viewing over 570,000 pages. “It’s insane, as a remote working team we hear people say they use the app but its the figures that show us it's working for our community. Our focus has always been to provide relevant and timely news and information that is relevant for our locals. We also received over 16,000 views on our social media last month, and our newsletter now has more than 300 subscribers. Our podcast, 'The Outlet’, has seen 4062 downloads since its release. It's all part of an effort to reach users wherever they are and keep the community conversation going.” If you’d like to check out or join the community conversation…Join our newsletterFollow our Instagram Follow our Facebook Listen to ‘The Outlet’ In addition to its many features, this month The Central App launched a Community Notice Board, accessible through the news section. (See the Tab at the top)The new feature provides a space for all locals to share announcements, garage sales, lost pets, flatmates wanted - anything a typical community notice board offers. “It’s a small addition that’s already making a big difference in how the community stays informed. We are trying to keep everything free for our readers and want to remind readers to support those who support us - that's why we have ads saying, ‘because of me, your news is free’ with the local business enabling you to receive free content and news."To visit the page, click here.Vicki said as digital tools become more integral to daily life, The Central App continues to evolve, adding features that reflect the needs of its users. One of the newest events on The Central App calendar is an AI seminar, allowing clients to gain a better understanding of the concept and its features, ultimately supporting them and their business into the future. A few tickets are still available to the event taking place on August 20 at Monte Christo. Contact Us if you'd like more information.“With its strong local presence and a team that’s truly part of the community, the app looks set to remain a key player in keeping Central Otago connected.“We want to take a moment to thank everyone who has made The Central App what it is today—our readers, local businesses, and community members. Your support and engagement have been invaluable. “As we continue to grow, we’d love to hear from you. How can we improve? What features would make the app even better for you? Your feedback is crucial in helping us serve Central Otago even more effectively. Please feel free to share your thoughts and ideas with us.”Click here to help us keep improving our app so it delivers what you need. Please take a couple of minutes to complete our survey.

Efforts are underway to safeguard birdlife at Thomsons Wetland ahead of the arrival of potential predators to the area.The wetland, on the outskirts of the Omakau township, attracts a wide range of native and endangered birds.To keep them protected from predators including stoats, ferrets, hedgehogs and possums, monitoring stations have been placed around the wetland, which a group of volunteers are regularly monitoring.The wetland is not accessible to the public but can be viewed from the Otago Central Rail Trail. PHOTO: The Central AppA group of seven ventured to the site on Friday morning to gauge what predators were already moving into the area, ahead of the warmer months.To do that, volunteer Kim Hore used a guide sheet to determine what rodents had nibbled away at peanut butter infused boards dotted around the wetland.Boards slotted inside small tunnels were also used to help the group determine what footprints had been left behind.The group’s latest investigation found signs of mice and rats in the area.Swans and their cygnets grace the wetland, among a range of other native and endangered birds. VIDEO: The Central AppHowever, there appeared to be limited activity, Kim said.“There’s just not that much here yet, which is good news.“I think we are ahead of it.”She said while rats could move in, in big numbers, stoats and ferrets could be the most damaging.The group monitors one of the stations during a walk around the wetland on Friday. A guide helps the volunteers determine what predators have been in the area, based on chew marks left on a card, pictured in the background. Trapping stations will soon be installed.As the group moved around the wetland on Friday, two resident swans with their four small cygnets appeared, a promising sign that predators were being kept at bay.Kim said the cygnets first appeared about two weeks ago, so was pleased to see all four were still alive and well.“We can see the wildlife coming in, so we are just trying to protect them.”The Thomsons Wetland is the work of the Manuherekia Catchment Group, which started out as a way to find solutions to protect water quantity and quality.Weather permitting, the next event for the Thomsons Wetland is a planting day, taking place on Sunday, September 29, from 10am.Register your interest at [email protected] or visit the Manuherekia Catchment Group’s website to learn more about the group, or to read its latest newsletter.PHOTOS/VIDEO: The Central App

The Central Otago community is being asked for feedback on the Otago Regional Council’s (ORC) draft Strategic Climate Action Plan (2024-2034).Chair Gretchen Robertson said the council has a vision for a low emissions Otago, which is resilient to the impacts of climate change and is encouraging the public to join in the discussion.“We want to know if our vision aligns with yours. Is a changing climate of concern to you and have greenhouse gas emissions and changing climate influenced your choices when it comes to things like travel, transport, your purchases, business decisions and where you want to live?” she said.The survey will seek feedback on council’s draft mitigation and adaptation goals and whether we could be doing more. The results will help shape a plan aimed at enhancing the social, economic, environmental, and cultural wellbeing of Otago’s communities.“It’ll help us stay proactive and closely aligned with the communities we serve, as we build resilience and navigate a changing environment and climate together.”The survey will be open until October 6, an extended period which will allow time for feedback from the rural sector involved in the busy lambing season, she said.The council’s draft Strategic Climate Action Plan 2024-2034 sets out goals that ORC will adopt and actions that ORC will take to help the region reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the changing climate. The plan will be reviewed and updated every three years – or more often if needed – to take advantage of emerging opportunities and ensure it stays on track to achieve these goals. Cr Robertson said council’s current workplan includes actions to help mitigate greenhouse gases and help its communities adapt to climate change, but council wants to know, are they doing enough and what should the strategy prioritise and build on? “We want to hear from you about your climate action priorities and what you think about the draft plan,” she said.“You can do this by reading the draft plan then completing the survey online or in hardcopy at your local library or council service centre. Your responses will inform the development of the plan and the work we do to implement it. Please read the draft Strategic Climate Action Plan 2024-2034 first and then have your say.” The draft Strategic Climate Action Plan 2024-2034 can be read online at www.orc.govt.nz/climate - with hard copies available from council offices, services centres and district libraries. 

Two of Central’s good blokes have won The Central App’s father's day competition; each taking home a $100 voucher from local businesses.Nathan McLeod and Steve Goodlass celebrated in style this father’s day enjoying some of the food and drinks from Chatto Creek Tavern and Paulina’s in Clyde.The McLeod family enjoying Fathers Day lunch at Chatto Creek Tavern: Photo from left: Libby, Nathan, Oliver, and Mason McLeod who nominated his Dad.Nathan, who won the Chatto Creek Tavern prize, was nominated by Mason (11) who said he was “kind and goes the extra mile when we go on holiday to make us have the best time.”Paulina’s voucher winner Steve was entered by Aria (11) and she wrote; “my dad is the best". “He takes care of mum and makes our home a lovely place. “He has amazing hugs and advice and gives me many skills in life. He always has great answers to my questions, and will always be there for me in the long run.”The two winners were nominated in a father’s day competition that was drawn on Friday, August 30. The nominee had to submit a reason why their dad or father figure was the best to enter into the random draw.A wide range of answers were received about Central dads, including having the best dad jokes, that he teaches the kids about how to grow a veggie garden and he works two jobs and makes one mean curry. Thanks to all the readers who entered the father’s day competition. A special thanks to Paulina's Bar in Clyde and Chatto Creek Tavern for gifting the prizes.