In the investment world, market downturns are as inevitable as paying taxes. In fact, you could think of investing as accepting the short-term ups and downs of the market as the “tax” you pay for potential long-term gains.Navigating through these turbulent times is when the value of a well-structured investment plan becomes most apparent. Such a plan acts as a roadmap, guiding investors through short-term fluctuations.Here are some of the key benefits of sticking to your plan during economic downturns:Emotional AnchorAn investment plan serves as an anchor, helping investors avoid panic-selling during market lows. It fosters a long-term perspective, which is crucial when short-term market movements turn negative.Risk ManagementA well-crafted financial plan includes risk management strategies like diversification and asset allocation within your portfolio. These strategies can help mitigate losses when certain sectors or asset classes face downturns.Opportunity for RebalancingMarket corrections can sometimes shift an investor's asset allocation away from their target. A solid plan allows for periodic rebalancing, presenting opportunities to buy low and sell high.Disciplined ApproachAdhering to a plan promotes a disciplined approach to investing, ensuring decisions are based on rational strategies rather than emotional responses to market fluctuations.Clear ObjectivesA well-constructed plan defines clear financial goals and outlines the path to achieve them, providing reassurance during uncertain market conditions.Cost EfficiencyFollowing a predetermined plan helps investors avoid the costs associated with frequent trading, such as fees and taxes, which can erode returns over time.Performance MeasurementAn investment strategy offers a framework for measuring performance against benchmarks and long-term goals, rather than reacting to the market’s unpredictable swings.It's important to remember that, throughout most of modern history, markets have been in a constant state of short-term uncertainty and flux, driven by unpredictable events. Yet, over time, they have consistently trended upward. A well-thought-out plan helps investors capture this long-term growth.As markets fluctuate, investors who stick to a plan are often the ones who reach their desired destination. A long-term strategy provides focus, keeping them on track while others get distracted by noise and fear.This is where an investment adviser can help. At Collinson Wealth we work with our clients to put together an investment plan focusing on what’s most important to you in the long term. We then help you stick to it through the inevitable downturns ensuring you get to reap the long-term rewards of prudently managing your wealth.The information contained in this publication is general in nature and is not intended to be personalised financial advice. Before making any financial decisions, you should consult a professional financial adviser.Collinson Wealth Partners FSP 743091 believes the information in this publication is correct, and it has reasonable grounds for any opinion or recommendation contained in this publication on the date of this publication.

Welcome to our third edition of Community Champions, celebrating the remarkable individuals who make our communities special. Today we feature a Reluctant Hero Heather Lindsay.When it comes to supermums, they don’t come much better than Highlands Motorsport Park Operations Manager and single mum of three, Heather Lindsay.Heather’s a pretty good juggler. She not only gets the job done with a hug and a cheery smile, but she’s renowned for going the extra mile.Heather’s the one you also want around in an emergency. When her youngest was a baby Heather’s ex-partner, the children’s father, had a heart attack at home on Mother’s Day right before they were to sit down for a celebration roast.She performed emergency CPR and saved his life before medical help arrived. A huge recovery period followed with her partner in Dunedin Hospital for a month and Heather managing the family while also commuting to work in Queenstown at Shotover Jet.“Shotover Jet were amazing during that time,” she says.“I am just so thankful to live in a small community where everybody rallies round. The amount of food that came through our door!”Heather having some fun with her kids on the back lawn back in the day PHOTO: SuppliedIt was merely payback time. Heather’s renowned for dropping off food to others going through a hard time.Friends and workmates say she has ‘care’ imprinted all over her heart. ‘She’s always first to organise meals for the team if someone is going through a bit of a challenge,” Highlands CEO Josie Spillane says.“It’s inherently in her to care for people. It’s as natural as breathing.” Heather is now a vital part of the Highlands’ team as Josie’s deputy.“I couldn’t and wouldn’t want to do it without her,” Josie says. “We’re a formidable duo.”Heather, fourth from right, Josie, in the red hat, and Highlands with Scott McLaughlin at the Indy. PHOTO: SuppliedBorn in Winton, Heather grew up on a farm in Otautau, until unfortunately her farmer dad died, aged 40, when she was 12 and they moved into the township.When Heather was 17, her mum moved the family to Cromwell.After a stint at Jackson’s Orchards fruit stall, Heather made her first foray into hospitality at the Golden Gate Lodge. Here her friendly, outgoing, personality shone. “I absolutely loved the social environment,” she says. “We worked hard but knew how to play hard too.”In the late 90s, she and her ex moved to Christchurch, where Heather waitressed.“At the time the drinking age was 20 and I was only 18 but that was the time of paper licences and I had an older sister,” Heather grins.After another stint back at ‘The Gate’ in 2002, she applied for a job as photographer at Shotover Jet with no previous experience and landed the role.“They were so lovely. I walked out of that interview knowing that I really wanted to work there.”It was a 45-minute commute, but it was at “Shottie” that Heather found her “customer service wings” working with an incredible team.She had three children during the 12 years she worked there, taking only three months paid maternity leave after each one, working her way through the ranks quickly.“I did beach control, drove the bus, took reservations and managed the photo and retail department.Tourism’s just such an amazing industry in terms of the people it attracts.It’s not dull. People want to connect, and you enjoy the variety every day.”In his early 20’s, Heather’s ex-partner was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, and she was the sole breadwinner.“When we had the kids, my ex stayed at home with them, and I returned to work.”They were long days commuting but the drive gave her time to switch from “work mode into Mum mode”.“I loved my job, but often think how I’d love to have had more time with the kids when they were little. That can be really challenging.”With her personal circumstances changing, it became more difficult to commute to Queenstown daily for work.While it was sad leaving Shotover Jet, Heather received a traditional Shotover Jet hero’s send-off.“They egged and floured me and threw me off the end of the jetty into the river,” she laughs. “That was a sign of respect.You knew you were well liked if you got worked over before you left.”Heather needed a job in Cromwell to spend more time with the kids and Highlands was the only place she really wanted to work.Heather with Tayla and Baylee at a Taylor Swift concert. PHOTO: SuppliedShe started out as front desk supervisor, but when Josie became CEO and the company’s reach spread nationally, Heather became the membership manager and began stepping up when Josie was away.“Josie has allowed me a huge amount of flexibility when it comes to being a working mum as she knows that I will stay late and get the work done, when it’s necessary,” Heather says. “I don’t know that I could work as a single mum without her.”It's been a family affair too, with all three kids working weekends and school holidays at Highlands at times.Tayla is thrilled to be training as a track marshal these school holidays.Her kids are the centre of her world and Heather wouldn’t have it any other way.With Baylee now studying in Christchurch and Dylan off to uni in Wellington next year, Heather’s spent a busy few years as manager of youngest Tayla’s Flames U15 Ice Hockey Team in Alexandra.She’s regularly on duty at tournaments around the region, with the Flames competing as far away as Dunedin, Gore, Tekapo and Queenstown in the Southern Ice Hockey League.Last year she was right in the thick of a huge fundraising effort to take the local U14 team to Melbourne to compete.“It was a busy season with a huge number of BBQ’s and an epic fundraising night with Nadia Lim and Matt Chishom, but we raised a phenomenal amount,” she says. “I’m lucky to be part of an amazing club with so many dedicated and fun-loving people.”There’s been another key ingredient to this supermum’s success – her own mum.“My mum is the real hero. She lived over the back fence when the kids were little, and we had a wee gate the kids could get through to go to Nan’s. The kids absolutely dote on her and were always over with her enjoying being spoilt, something only grandparents can do.”One morning, Nan awoke early to a three-year-old Baylee standing beside her bed. “Baylee had unlocked the ranchslider and climbed through Nan’s doggy door to spend some time with her.“Needless to say, we got deadbolts after that,” Heather laughs.When Heather got to travel to the Indy 500 with Josie and some Highlands members this year it was Nan to the rescue again.“I’m so grateful for her. She makes everything so much easier for me. I couldn’t do it without her.”“I tell my kids, that when challenges arise you have to choose how you deal with them and what attitude you’ll face them with,” Heather says.“Concentrate on what you can control and don’t pay too much mind to the rest.Be determined and channel your energies into what’s important to you.” It’s advice that’s stood this Superhero Mum in good stead.Do you have someone in the community you'd like to nominate as our Community Champion for November 1? 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 Alexandra Blossom Festival resulted in a quiet and well-managed weekend this year, thanks to increased security measures and the dedicated efforts of the Red Frogs crew.Red Frogs, a support programme for young people aged 13 to 30, had representatives in Pioneer Park last Friday night cooking pancakes for those who had flocked to the area following the Alexandra Blossom Festival's Mardi Gras.Representative Shannon Thomson said the Alexandra Blossom Festival committee first invited the organisation to help keep the park safe in 2019, and they’ve been coming back every year since.The volunteer organisation’s mission is to help combat a culture in New Zealand that is largely dominated by alcohol and other substances, often leading to dangerous and life-altering behaviours for young people.Alexandra Police confirmed it had become quite a tradition for underage drinkers to consume alcohol in Pioneer Park after the Mardi Gras, and extra security had been put in place to minimise that behaviour.This year had been surprisingly quiet and by 10.30pm the Red Frogs crew were able to start packing up their tent.Previous years had been a different story with some teenagers needing help sobering up and finding a way home right up until the early hours of the morning, with the Red Frogs on hand to offer food, water and a safe space until parents could be located.  This year huge lighting towers had also been brought into each corner of the park to keep the area well lit, and security officers as well as Māori wardens were patrolling the area as part of the harm prevention strategies.“We want to make it non-confrontational,” Shannon said.Alexandra Police acting sergeant Graham Perkins said the festival got the thumbs up from police with few incidents reported.“There was a bit of disorder, but it was minimal and sorted very quickly,” he said.Between Alexandra and Cromwell there were 2141 vehicles stopped by police at checkpoints, and only three people were processed for drink driving - and all were under 400mcg.Infringement notices were given to 25 drivers for various offences such as no seatbelts worn, and only four people were ticketed for drinking alcohol in a vehicle in a public place, while the liquor ban was in force.Three vehicles were green stickered for being too low in suspension and unroadworthy.Only one person was arrested for fighting in a public place on Friday night in Alexandra, and there was no trouble in Pioneer Park both evenings, he said.

The Alexandra Blossom Festival provided a wide range of entertainment throughout the weekend, from intricately decorated floats to musical performances, among much more. People gathered from far and wide to enjoy everything it had to offer, with more than 15,000 people packing into Pioneer Park, where they made the most of the entertainment, rides and food on Saturday. Below is a snapshot of some of the action.Winner of the best floral float was Kung Fu Panda by Combined Lions Clubs of Clyde & Districts, and Alexandra. PHOTO: Clare Toia-Bailey/ Image Central Street performers on stilts captured the attention of visitors of all ages. PHOTO: Clare Toia-Bailey/ Image Central Dunstan Kahui Ako kapa haka group performed in front of the main stage at 3.30pm to resounding applause from the audience. PHOTO: The Central AppThe kapa haka performance captured the attention of the large crowd. VIDEO: The Central AppModes of transport on show in the parade were varied, including this historic wagon and tractor from yesteryear. PHOTO: The Central AppPipe bands in full regalia took to the streets including the ILT City of Invercargill Highland Pipe Band. PHOTO: Clare Toia-Bailey/ Image Central The first ever joint winners (from left) Blossom Festival King Nate Alexander (17), first runner up Kimberley Dacosta (16) and Queen Lily Kain (16). PHOTO: Clare Toia-Bailey/ Image Central The Mardi Gras fireworks were enjoyed by many, kicking off an absolute banger of a weekend in Central. PHOTO: The Central AppRead more: Celebrating another successful Blossom FestivalRead more: Opinion: Efforts pay off for Blossom Festival 

A German tourist who had to be plucked out of the Clutha River on Sunday also managed to escape out the back of an ambulance on the way to hospital.Alexandra Police Acting Sergeant Graham Perkins said the 32-year-old man was picked up by two local jet skiers 2km south of the Alexandra bridge in a hyperthermic condition.After dropping his backpack off at Community House, the man went walking on the Millennium Track and decided to take his clothes off before entering the river.The two men that found him in a strong current said most of his head was submerged and he was very white. They managed to pull him up onto the back of the jet ski.Acting Sgt Perkins said ambulance and police were waiting near the boat ramp, and he was shaking severely and was initially incoherent because of the time spent in the cold water.“His body temperature had dropped drastically,” he said.One of the Otago Southland Rescue helicopters also arrived onsite, but a paramedic assessed him as suitable for transfer to Dunstan Hospital in an ambulance instead.Enroute to Dunstan Hospital the man managed to undo his seatbelt and when the ambulance pulled over and officers attempted to restrain him, he opened up the back door and took off naked towards the river again - near the Alexandra Golf Course.Realising he couldn’t get through because of the 4WD tracks and willows blocking the river access, he turned back and was arrested by police who had arrived on the scene.Acting Sgt Perkins said the man was transferred to Dunedin for a psychiatrist assessment.Family in Germany were also contacted.“He was very lucky to be found. I have big praise for the local jet skiers for their attention and observation,” Acting Sgt Perkins said.The second rescue helicopter that landed in Pioneer Park on Sunday was transferring a young motorbike rider to an ambulance so he could be taken to Dunstan Hospital, following an accident.

Central Otago Mayor Tim Cadogan has announced he will be resigning at Labour Weekend.He made the announcement at 6.30pm, via a Facebook Live, saying it was “not an easy” decision to come to, but felt the time was right as he was not seeking a fourth term.“It’s really important to note that I’m not resigning at present because if that were the case it would trigger a by-election.”Instead, he plans to step down from his position on October 26, which would mean it would be up to the Central Otago councillors to decide who the next mayor would be.Mayor Tim said the timing also meant his departure would not interrupt the process of the upcoming 10 year plan.“With the Long Term Plan (LTP) cycles, every three years we do a 10 year plan and that involves a lot of work, and it also involves leading that plan.”That plan was usually done in the middle of a term, but as it worked out that plan would not be happening until June next year. “It made a lot more sense to me for the council and for the community, for me to step aside before that time and allow a new mayor to step into the office and lead that LTP and, hopefully, to lead beyond that LTP into the next term.”He understood the news had possibly come as a surprise to a lot of people, but it was a decision he had come to with the support of his family.Mayor Tim ended the Facebook Live saying he believed he was leaving the council in good hands and would “talk later because this isn’t easy”.He later followed that up with a post apologising for the “truncated ending to Facebook Live”.“What I would have said had I not been losing it a wee bit was that, alongside being a father of a blended family and a husband, being the mayor of this district has been the greatest privilege of my life. It has been an honour and a pleasure to have been in this role for the last eight years,” he said.“What I also would have said was the next bit, which is that we will be moving to Wellington. I will be taking up the role of Local Government engagement specialist at the Water Services Authority Taumata Arowai. I am looking forward to a new challenge, although leaving this magnificent place for a while is really going to hurt.”

There was plenty to celebrate last weekend following the return of the 67th Alexandra Blossom Festival.The Round the Clock Race, followed by the Mardi Gras on Friday night, complete with fireworks set the scene, drawing crowds wanting to catch some of the action.While many watched from the sidelines, others sporting tutus, high school track suits and bright colours tackled the climb to the Alexandra Clock, before making the most of what the Mardi Gras had to offer.Paul Foulds and his band provided musical entertainment, while street performers and illuminated fairies stunned the children.The addition of interactive lighting installations, including an entire garden bed of sunflowers and inflatable flowers were also among the evening’s highlights.Freestyle NZ also brought their daredevil FMX antics to the party, providing high octane thrills, before a fireworks display lit up the night sky.On Saturday festivities continued with the Grand Procession, which attracted thousands of spectators wanting to catch a glimpse of the trucks, floats, florreys, marching and pipe bands, street performers and community groups as they made their way along Alexandra’s Centennial Ave. A colourful display of Rainbow Fish, Kung Fu Panda, Lego, BMX bikers, SteamPunk enthusiasts and cultural groups wowed the crowd. Olympic silver medalist Nicole Shields was among those who took part in the parade, riding in a red Bentley with Olympic rings on the side, surrounded by children from Clyde Primary School.  She wandered through Pioneer Park throughout the afternoon, talking with the masses who stopped to congratulate her.Saturday in the Park was another of the weekend’s huge successes with more than 15,000 people attending.   Bands The QFO Experiment, Paul Foulds Band and Jody Direen, rocked the crowd, before an emotional kapa haka performance by Central Otago primary school pupils stole the limelight. Simon Green’s Neil Diamond Tribute “A Solitary Man’’ and Highland Storm rounded out the night with everyone up on their feet dancing and singing. The crowd rang out in support as two historic firsts took place: joint winners for the highly anticipated 2024 Blossom Crown - and the festival's first ever Blossom King. Lily Kain (16), representing Alexandra Scout Group was crowned 2024 Alexandra Blossom Festival Queen, while Nate Alexander (17), representing Puna Rangatahi was crowned 2024 Alexandra Blossom Festival King. Kimberley Dacosta (16), representing Little Oaks, was named first runner up. There was not a dry eye in sight as the pair were announced, with fellow contestants jumping up to congratulate them. The weekend wrapped up with the Delta Garden tour, a self-driven tour of eight spectacular gardens around Alexandra and Clyde on Sunday. Blossom Festival chairwoman Sharleen Stirling-Lindsay said she was thrilled with the weekend’s success. “It was an absolute stunner of a day in every way! The community really came out to celebrate,’’ she said. “We are so grateful for all the support from the sponsors, the volunteers and our wonderful community.’’ 2024 Float WinnersBest Contemporary Float - Wall-e Saving the Planet by Puna Rangatahi Alexandra & Districts Youth TrustBest Education Float - The Art of Childhood by Omakau & Districts PlaycentreRunner Up - The Wiggles by Little OaksBest Floral Float - Kung Fu Panda by Combined Lions Clubs of Clyde & Districts, and AlexandraBest Small Float - Flower Basket by Central Otago Filipino CommunityPeople Choice - Rainbow Fish by Grans Who Can Other PrizesBain Cup - Best decorated window: Jamies Jewellers and Paper PLusJan Belt Memorial Trophy: Dave Ramsay

The Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter Service will use money from community donations to install a new webcam in Alexandra to help monitor weather conditions in the town.Trustee Stephen Woodhead and critical care paramedic and team leader Ross Kirkpatrick spoke to the Otago Regional Council (ORC) last week, and also presented its 2023-24 annual report.The rescue helicopter service had been slightly quieter than the 2022-2023 period, but there was still an ongoing high level of demand for the service, having responded with critical care for 1883 patients.Accident numbers decreased from 629 to 553, but medical emergencies were up slightly from 436 to 457, and hospital transfers from 935 to 941. Search and rescue missions decreased from 109 to 106.The Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter Trust continued to co-fund the service $800,000 a year, along with a further $400,000 from the Lakes District Air Rescue Trust, through the Crown - The Ambulance Team (TAT) and Health NZ and ACC.Funding innovations such as the network of Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) routes have been developed across the lower South Island over recent years. The IFR routes were nearly complete and provided connections through all the main valleys in Otago and Southland, enabling missions to be completed where poor visibility would otherwise preclude flying.The ORC is a major funder of the trust, donating $350,000 annually, and a further $1million was donated throughout the various communities.These included $30,000 from the Lions Club of Maniototo, $5000 from Alexandra Rotary, $3065 from the Otago Cavalcade and $31,500 from the Central Otago Winter Feed Competition.“The teams bring life-saving care to patients across the lower South Island 24/7, 365 days of the year. It is an expensive operation, and we are very grateful for the funding support provided,” Stephen said.ORC chair Gretchen Robertson said the report highlights the critical work the Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter Trust does for the region.“This is an important service that unquestionably saves lives every year. Otago is a large and geographically diverse area, and this service plays a critical role in helping patients across the region. The hundreds of patients cared for over the past year reinforces how valuable this service is for the people of Otago.”“I want to thank the trust, pilots and emergency response staff who play an important role in saving lives and helping our communities every day,” she said.

Cromwell Newcomers and Central Lakes Basketball are gearing up to host Unity Hoops, a day-long social basketball tournament celebrating cultural diversity. Unity Hoops, taking place on October 6, aims to be a fun social tournament that will bring people together at the Cromwell College gym. The tournament is all about celebrating cultural diversity with players connecting through the common language of basketball.Cromwell Newcomers facilitator Sharon Smid said people connect over shared activities, whether it’s a meal, trying a new sport and other recreational pursuits.“Unity Hoops is just adding another string to the bow to meet and connect with people of all nations.“Our vision is to bring other sports into Unity Sports in 2025. We know keeping active is important for all facets of health and it is always more fun and motivating when there is a social element to it.”Team entries so far are from Asia, The Philippines, Samoa and India.Players need to bring a plate of shared food from their homeland for a potluck meal after the tournament.Sharon said the game format was social with seven-minute halves and short breaks in between to keep it flowing.“Teams will have an equal number of games. The [referees] role will be to mentor people through the game if they are trying the sport for the first time or have not played since high school.”Sharon thanked supporters for backing the tournament; Cromwell Newcomers, Central Lakes Basketball, Central Fitness, Sport Central and Cromwell College. “Central Lakes Basketball are funding the gym time to ensure that everyone gets the opportunity to take part.”Unity Hoops will bring people of all cultures together in Cromwell. PHOTO: Supplied The event is free to enter, all skill levels are welcome and organisers can help people find a team.Sport Central will be attending and providing play opportunities for local tamariki too.To registar an find out more go to The Central App’s notice board.If you'd like to share a community notice, please list by clicking here or go to the top of the News section and clicking on Notices. It's free to share your community information that is relevant to our local readers.

Free outdoor education programme for Central girls, Journeys, has completed its latest three-month winter season with 50 girls and women exploring the great outdoors.Caitlin Shea (17), a Year 12 Dunstan High School student, has been volunteering as a co-leader this year, along with participating in the older girls' programme ‘Inspire’.She said becoming a co-leader had helped her confidence with talking in front of a group.“I’d recommend becoming a leader, the leadership camp [in Hawea] was really fun. I got to know people around my age group who I wouldn’t know otherwise.”Caitlin said the hours she spends as a co-leader are contributing to her Duke of Edinburgh Award and she loved being physical and getting out of the house.Journeys participants warm up during a mini-rogaine held in August. PHOTO: Journeys Central Otago FacebookA recent Journeys newsletter reported girls were adventuring on nights of steady rain and in freezing fog and subzero temperatures, and one week in a horizontal snow blizzard.“We are constantly receiving feedback about the enormous amount of joy our young women get from Journeys - being the highlight of weeks, and something that is hugely looked forward to and filling souls. “We always take a short moment to wonder why, as at a glance the Journeys formula is so incredibly simple - we're literally just hanging out in our wild places, exploring, sharing snacks and having fun,” the newsletter said. Journey’s leader Isla Nelson enjoys the winter views and sunsets with a group of girls. PHOTO: Supplied Alexandra-based business Dunstan Automotive is a new supporter of Journeys.Business owner Butch (Michael) Henderson and partner Amanda (Mandy) Kidd said it started with daughter Mackenzy joining in term three.“[Journeys] put a call out for people to bring some flasks to use for the nights the girls were going [out], so we decided to buy enough flasks for them and the drinks to go in it.” Mandy said a newsletter put a call out for a new basecamp and Dunstan Automotive decided it wanted to help so offered up a garage space they are leasing.“We are fully funding them to be in there . . . and our landlords are aware of this and happy for us to do so.”The new basecamp has plenty of room and includes a toilet, kitchen and office. It is currently getting fitted out with functional storage for bikes and gear.Journeys co-founder Megan Longman said the plan is to get some Journeys participants to take the lead with “beautifying” the space and she hoped it would be in operation from late November.Before now gear has been stored in one of the instructor’s garages. Journeys, which was registered as a charitable trust in 2020, was founded by Megan Longman, Kim Froggatt and Penny Smale, based on their own outdoor experiences while they were growing up.Along with the Inspire group, aged 16 to 24, there were eight groups of girls aged 11 to 15, nine Year 11 and 12 co-instructors, and adult women instructors in the 12-week programme held over winter. The summer season begins in November, which will see girls adventure on their mountain bikes in Central’s wild places, and those in Inspire will bike and do some water activities. Mountain biking groups are for Year 7 to 11 on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and Inspire will be on Mondays.The summer season runs for 12 weeks, six in term four, and six in term one of 2025. Major funders Central Lakes Trust, Sport Otago, Otago Community Trust and Lottery Grants Board combined with widespread community collaboration between families, schools, local businesses and clubs makes the programme possible.For more information about Journeys summer programme register online.More information is on Journeys Central App listing.Read more: New free outdoor programme for Central kōhine

As of 3:47 PM today (Sunday, September 29) multiple unplanned power outages affected 2,000 homes.A spokesperson from Aurora Energy says the reason was due to an electrical fault that disrupted power for approximately 2,000 customers in Alexandra and the Omakau area.It is understood that a 11 kV voltage cable, which supplies electricity to a commercial customer, experienced a termination fault, leading to a small localised fire on a pole structure.An Aurora Energy spokesperson explained the situation: "At the request of Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ), we isolated the associated overhead feeders to ensure their safety while they extinguished the fire."The spokesperson also expressed gratitude for the quick response from both FENZ and Aurora’s 24/7 fault response team, noting that power was restored within about 90 minutes. "We will continue our investigation into the cause of the cable fault," the spokesperson added, emphasising the company's commitment to understanding and preventing future incidents.The incident highlights the ongoing challenges of maintaining electrical infrastructure and the importance of swift emergency responses in minimising disruption to local communities.Areas impacted by the outage include:AlexandraGallowayLetts GullyLittle ValleySpringvaleWaikerikeriBecksCambriansChatto CreekClydeCromwell GorgeDrybreadEarnscleughFraser DamIda ValleyLauderManorburnMatakanuiMoa CreekOmakauOphirPoolburnSaint BathansThe Central App were also quick to provide a push notification to direct locals to visit the Power outages section located on The Central App for up to date information.

If there’s one thing Alexandra does well, it’s a Blossom Festival and this weekend was no exception.The week has been full of celebrations, from crowning of the Senior Queen to the Round the Clock Race and Mardi Gras on Friday, followed by the Grand Procession and Saturday in the Park, among much more.I joined the many thousands of people who flocked to the main street to watch the Grand Procession roll through town yesterday morning, an event that brought excitement to people of all ages.Onlookers get toots from truck drivers during the Grand Procession. VIDEO: The Central AppTruck drivers tooted, people riding bright coloured floats waved and, from where I was standing, everyone watching on was smiling.Yes, the weather can play a pivotal role in the success of these events, but nothing completes the jigsaw of a well-oiled festival than the committee who works tirelessly behind the scenes.It takes a lot of time and dedication, so if you know any of the committee members, please remember to acknowledge their efforts when you see them next. Also helping make the Alexandra Blossom Festival a success are the businesses who decorate their shop windows to brighten the town, polish their big rigs to join the procession, or set up a stall.And, then there’s the groups that spend countless hours decorating floats and florries.There’s also those who put themselves front and centre for roles such as Senior Queen, Prince and Princesses - something not everyone would find easy to do, I know I certainly wouldn't.Others have put their beautifully manicured gardens on show, adding another layer of charm to the festivities and not to mention pressure on the owners to keep them looking immaculate for the big day. The list goes on.While I can’t name everyone, please know that no matter what your involvement was during the 67th Alexandra Blossom Festival, your contribution did not go unnoticed and contributed to a fantastic week of events.Read more: Blossom festival royalty to feature in Grand ParadeRead more: Diverse artwork displayed at Blossom Festival exhibitionRead more: Delta Garden Tour to showcase spring beauty

I was in a taxi in Wellington a couple of weeks ago and got yarning to the driver. Or he actually got yarning to me, as I sat back and listen to his life story. I may get some details wrong here, but it went something like this. He was born in Ethiopia and when he was 8, his entire family was killed in a war there. He entered some form of convent and trained to become a monk. When he was about 13, he left there and wound up in Sudan, a country at that time at war with itself. He didn’t go into details, but said it was horrible. I shudder to think of what this guy’s definition of horrible is. He then had to get out of there and wound up in Libya. There he was arrested as an illegal immigrant and put in prison. His job was to find someone who would front up with US$10,000 to secure his release. This was an impossible task for someone with no family and nothing to his name. To encourage him to find a solution to this impossible task, the authorities gave him three months to find the cash, or he would be executed. They gave him access to the internet and, getting perilously close to the three-month timeline, he found a pastor from that convent long ago in Ethiopia who had travelled to the West and was in a position, with the aid of a parish, to help. My driver then found himself in Egypt where he was kept alive by the kindness of others because, as an illegal immigrant, he couldn’t work. Eventually, he found another friend from the convent who sponsored him to come to Auckland. He found love there but that went disastrously wrong, so he packed his bags one night and moved to Wellington.  And here’s the thing. He was smiling as he told his heartbreaking story. His face was alive with happiness as he recounted his horrors because of where he is now and the life he now leads. He said Wellington and New Zealand are paradise, because they are peaceful. I thought of this man as I stood grinning like a five-year-old at the Blossom Festival fireworks on Friday night. I was surrounded by children squealing with delight at the booms and flashes and thought of those little ones around the world who will right now be screaming in terror from similar sights and sounds in places like Gaza, Ukraine, Lebanon and others. Children who, by the lottery of life, would be cowering from deadly shell-fire now marvelling at pyrotechnics. I have noticed in myself over the last eight years of being mayor that I have become less tolerant, possibly even intolerant, of people who come to me with what they think are big issues but in the scheme of things, just simply don’t matter. The common complaint of too many road cones being used jumps to mind, or this week a group complaining about a tiny detail in a civic plan that didn’t meet their approval. These people need to get some perspective about just how incredibly lucky, how unbelievably blessed we are to live in this place, and at this time. Of all the times in history and all the places in the world, we are amongst the most fortunate people to ever have lived and to right now be in Central Otago, Aotearoa, New Zealand. I tell myself that every day. It seems tremendously ungrateful to me not to.

Cromwell’s ‘welcome’ sign will turn pink in October in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.The structure is one of 80 landmarks, streets and prominent buildings across New Zealand that will shine under pink lights as part of the Breast Cancer Foundation’s Global Illuminations campaign. Other participating sites across Otago include Queenstown’s TSS Earnslaw "Lady of the Lake" and Arrowtown’s Lakes District Museum & Gallery.Also turning pink for the occasion will be Dunedin’s Toitū Otago Settlers Museum, University of Otago Clock Tower, Otago Museum, Forsyth Barr Stadium, Town Hall, Railway Station, Speights Brewery Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral, and Otago Boys’ High School.The campaign aims to help Breast Cancer Foundation NZ spread the message that breast cancer is most survivable with early detection. Shedding light on the campaign also draws attention to the charity’s annual Pink Ribbon Street Appeal, taking place on October 18 to 19. Cromwell's welcome sign greets people along SH8B. PHOTO: FileAround the country, thousands of collectors will be shaking their pink buckets, collecting donations for breast cancer research, education campaigns and patient support programmes. Breast Cancer Foundation NZ’s chief executive Ah-Leen Rayner said October was an opportunity for all New Zealanders to help change the dial on breast cancer.“One in nine women today will learn they have breast cancer, but early detection is the key to successful treatment,” she said. “We’re grateful to so many sites in Otago helping us to raise awareness and vital funds this Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Every dollar donated to the Pink Ribbon Street Appeal will make a massive difference to support Kiwis undergoing treatment and aid us towards our vision of zero deaths from breast cancer.” Around 240 women are diagnosed with breast cancer across the Southern Health NZ Te Whatu Ora area every year. The survival rate for breast cancer if diagnosed early is 92 per cent. Breast Cancer Foundation NZ is urging all women to be ‘breast aware’ to give themselves the best chance of surviving breast cancer – that means getting to know the normal look and feel of their breasts, regularly touching and looking for any changes, and getting changes checked by a GP as soon as possible. For women aged 45-69, free mammograms are available through BreastScreen Aotearoa every two years. The Foundation is still looking for volunteers to take part in its Pink Ribbon Street Appeal. For more information on this and other ways to get involved with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, visit the Breast Cancer Foundation website.

Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes mayors are progressing a plan to maximise private money to improve health services across the regions.Central Otago Mayor Tim Cadogan said in his monthly report to council this week, he was continuing to work alongside Queenstown Lakes Mayor Glyn Lewers and the three local MPs, with a specialist consultant on the issue.“The need across Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes is palpable. Growth has far outstripped the already under-pressure hospitals we have locally.”Health New Zealand figures show that Dunstan and Lakes District hospitals need an additional 29 beds between them to achieve parity with other similar rural hospitals. Dunstan Hospital was 199 km from a tertiary hospital with specialist care, making it the second most isolated level three rural hospital in the country.Currently, Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago’s combined resident-only population is 79,000.Advocacy group Health Action Wānaka chair Monique Mayze said the communities were rapidly growing, and a lack of beds increased the risk of poor health outcomes for people.“We have 0.71 inpatient beds per 1000 people in the Dunstan and Lakes District hospitals catchments, while 1.2 inpatient beds per 1000 people is the average at other level three rural hospitals across the country.However, this was based on 2018 census data, so the disparity was actually much larger, she said.“While the West Coast is the most isolated in terms of distance to a tertiary hospital, it has a higher bed ratio to compensate. Similarly, Kaikoura is quite isolated but also has a higher bed ratio, while some rural areas such as Bay of Islands and Hawera have lower bed ratios but are closer to large hospitals."Monique said the Upper Clutha loses out on both counts with a lower bed ratio “and our significant distance from a large specialist hospital.”She said the ambulance service was also under pressure which meant patients were often moved between hospitals and could be at risk of being discharged early to free up the beds.“Lakes District Hospital is the publicly funded emergency department for our community, and with only 17 beds (12 general ward and five maternity), is unlikely to be able to meet demand of our community’s rapidly growing population along with the spikes in numbers due to visitors. “Meanwhile, the team at Dunstan Hospital is also under pressure because their 24 funded beds are often full. “We recognise that funding decisions need to be based on more than just population size and must be responsive to the particular needs of each community, however, we also believe this lack of funding reflects a larger trend of inequitable distribution of services to our region.”

Clyde's Lodge Lane could soon be restricted to pedestrians and cyclists only.A proposal to make Lodge Lane a pedestrian and cyclist-only space to enhance the village atmosphere will be open for public feedback from September 30 to October 30. Lodge Lane received a makeover three years ago as part Central Otago District Council’s (CODC) Clyde Heritage Precinct Upgrade project. The upgrade to create a shared public space and a central community hub at the ‘heart’ of Clyde was consulted on with the community through council’s 2018 10-Year Plan. CODC senior land development engineer Dan Kirkman said the next step would be to ask people whether they want the space to be restricted to pedestrians and cyclists only.  “With the work on Sunderland Street progressing, and Clyde opening up again from December, it’s time to ask the community what they think about Lodge Lane and whether they want it to be vehicle free and its future function in the village of Clyde.” People can give their feedback on the matter from Monday, September 30 via council's Let’s Talk document.

Get ready to spring into summer; daylight saving begins this weekend which will mean we lose an hour of sleep - but the days will be warmer and brighter.So, when do the clocks switch over? Why do we observe daylight saving? And how do you check the time on your phone is accurate? Here's everything you need to know.When does daylight saving start in New Zealand?Clocks will go forward one hour at 2am on Sunday 29 September.Do the clocks go forward or back?Spring into summer!Clocks go forward for summer, from 2am to 3am. That means you'll lose an hour's sleep and it will be darker when you wake up in the morning.It also means the sun will go down an hour later, allowing extra time in the evening for those summer BBQs.How do I change the time on my phone?You probably won't need to, because most smart phones will adjust to time zones automatically. Here's how to check if your smartphone does that:Android: Go into the clock app, tap more and then go into settings. Then go into change date and time, select set time zone automatically and then select use location to set time zone.iPhone: Open settings, select general, to go date & time and make sure set automatically is turned on.Samsung: Open settings, go to general management, select date and time and then make sure automatic date and time is turned on. This should mean your phone will automatically reflect the time depending on where you are.Remember clocks go forward one hour from 2am on Sunday. Photo: COLLANGES / BSIP / BSIP via AFPWhy do we have daylight saving?Because the Earth is on a tilt (of about 23 degrees, for those curious), we are exposed to more sun during summer and less during winter.That means the days are longer during the warmer months and shorter in the colder months.Daylight saving is intended to make the most of those long daylight hours. It means an extra hour of light on summer evenings, rather than super early in the mornings when hardly anyone is awake to enjoy it.How long have we been doing this?New Zealand first observed daylight saving in 1927.However, the dates that clocks went forward and back, and the amount of time they were changed, varied over the following years.In 1941, daylight saving was extended year-round under emergency regulations to help save energy during World War II.Five years later, daylight saving time (or summer time as it was then known) was adopted as standard time, effectively discontinuing daylight saving.In 1975, daylight saving was introduced again.It was extended to its current dates - from the last Sunday in September to the first Sunday in April - in 2007.When will daylight saving time end?Daylight saving time ends every year at 3am on the first Sunday in April.That means it ends in 2025 at 3am on Sunday 6 April.Daylight saving is intended to make the most of those long daylight hours. Photo: UnsplashDo other countries observe daylight saving?They do, but they're in the minority. About two thirds of the world's countries do not change their clocks throughout the year, according to Pew Research.The practice is most popular in Europe, where 37 out of 44 countries observe daylight saving, and it's also observed in parts of North America, Latin America and Australia.Egypt is the only African nation with daylight saving after bringing it back in 2023.Countries close to the equator do not usually change their clocks as the length of their days does not vary enough throughout the year to justify it.What if I'm working when the time changes?The rules around getting paid for working during daylight saving time are set out in the Time Act 1974.It says that if you're working when clocks go back an hour, you are entitled to be paid for that extra hour.For example, if your shift started at 10pm and finishes at 6am, you will have actually worked nine hours and must be paid for nine hours of work.If you're working on 29 September when the clocks go forward, you are still entitled to be paid for your normal hours. In this instance, a 10pm-6am shift will only mean seven hours of work, but you must be paid for eight.I've changed the clock on my microwave - what next?Daylight saving is a good time to check the batteries on your smoke alarm by pushing the test button to sound the alarm.Check the alarm's expiry date too - most last a maximum of 10 years - and give the cover a clean to avoid false alarms from dust buildup.The ancient Roman alternative to daylight savings timeFirefighters warn to check smoke alarms for daylight savingDaylight Savings and Sleep HealthWhy time has always been against us

Senior Queen Robyn Marshall is gearing up for her next big role - sitting front and centre in this year’s Alexandra Blossom Festival’s Grand Parade.Robyn, who has dedicated countless hours to community initiatives over the years, was this week named Senior Queen during a special ceremony to honour each of the five nominees.The four other nominees were Jo Ireland, who received the People’s Choice award, Bernie Butler, Jacqui Hood and runner-up Anne Dougherty.Now, with a few days to adjust to her new title, Robyn talked about her latest role on The Outlet podcast.She admits it was not the first time someone wanted to nominate her, but this year decided to welcome the opportunity, while representing the Clyde and Districts Lions Club.Robyn, who is a foundation member of the club, has also held the roles of president and catering convenor, among others.“It’s a delight to be able to help out our local community with the funds that we collect from the projects,” she said.However, her involvement with the lions club is not where her dedication to the community starts and ends.Robyn, a retired teacher, can still be found in the classroom supporting those who need assistance with reading and writing. She is also part of a knitting group, ensuring babies in the community are kept warm.Robyn will ride on the Contact Energy float on Saturday, one of her many roles throughout the Alexandra Blossom Festival.To follow the busy lineup of festivities, click on the festival's Programme via The Central App.Read more: Robyn Marshall crowned Senior Queen 2024Read more: Introducing Senior Queen nominees for 2024

One of Alexandra Blossom Festival’s first official events for 2024 kicked off on Wednesday night, with the annual Central Otago Art Society (COAS) exhibition.This year’s exhibition at Central Stories Art Gallery and Museum also coincided with the 50th anniversary of the society, and a special ‘Milestones’ category was included in the awards.The exhibition attracted 140 paintings from 50 different artists - both locally and from around the South Island.The Central Otago Art Society celebrated 50 years with a special cake at the art exhibition opening night on Wednesday.COAS trustee Judy Campbell said the first blossom festival art exhibition was held in 1963, at the old Alexandra swimming pool, and Denis Kent was one of the founding members.Now in his 80s, Denis was present at the awards and given a special mention, having entered every competition since the beginning, and picking up the Premier Award in 2011.COAS patron and founding member Denis Kent (right) and Clyde artist Maxine Williams share some memories.This year guest judge and renowned artist Nicola Bennett chose the winning pieces and spoke about her love of blossoms, having only just experienced her first spring in the town, after moving from Rotorua with her husband in January.An abstract artist who exhibits regularly from her gallery in Auckland, Nicola has been selling work internationally for the past eight years and was inspired by food and flavours, and the feelings they invoke.She said the art works she chose for the winning prizes in the exhibition were not necessarily the best works, “but they just spoke to me". "Art is hugely subjective,” she said.COAS trustee Dorothy Piper, of Roxburgh, was given the Premier Award for her magpie painting that was accompanied by a famous Denis Glover poem.Nicola described the three art works that Dorothy entered as “technically brilliant,” realist paintings that featured strong narratives.“I could’ve given the award to either of those works,” she said.Dorothy also won a Merit Award in 2019 and the Premier Award in 2020, and has been painting, mostly with water colours since she was a teenager.Sarah Freiburger, of Dunedin, was runner-up and the Elizabeth Stevens Memorial Award was given to Sue Stewart, of Alexandra.Kim Bungard, of Invercargill, won the special Milestones category, and two Highly Commended awards were given to local artists Fiona Hughes and Debbie Malcolm.The exhibition will be on at Central Stories Art Gallery and Museum daily until Friday October 4, concluding with the People’s Choice Award that night.Click on the 2024 Blossom Festival Art Exhibition listing on The Central App for more information.PHOTOS: The Central App