The last long weekend for a few months was action packed for Central residents with family friendly winter events, arts and sporting success.In Oturehua the Ida Valley Winter Art Show attracted hundreds of people and raised $1,666 for the Oturehua Hall. A spokesperson said it was an unbelievable success and he had plans to make the next edition even better.“The goal of using the hall, creating a fun social activity for the community and supporting local artists, who earned 100 per cent of their sales, was achieved,” they said.Sculptor Martin Sullivan took home the people’s choice award of $2,750 and gained an invitation to return next year. One of his pieces sold for over $15K during the weekend. The Central App client liaison Dorothy Boyd presenting Martin with the people’s choice award. Photo: Margaret MitchellOther local artists who displayed works were Tony Stanford Shields (landscape paintings), Birgit Krippner, Ruth Arnott (ceramics) and Debbie Moore (pastel landscapes).The red shark is one of Martin’s pieces included in the show. Photo: Margaret MitchellThe amount of art sold totalled $25K and one artist sold everything they exhibited. Read more: Ida Valley winter art show to help Oturehua HallManiototo Adventure Park (MAP) and Alexandra’s Ice Inline both hosted ice skating discos.A MAP spokesperson said ‘Lights on Ice’ on Friday evening was a huge success with fabulous costumes, colourful lights and a good turnout. Alexandra’s ice disco was split by ages allowing the smallest of skaters lots of room and to be home for an earlier bedtime.The Alexandra Ice Skating Club (AISC) members grasped hands and gave tips to those wobbling on the ice and a DJ played Disney movie hits and well known bangers under the roof and under lights.Maori health provider Uruuruwhenua Hauora provided free tickets, including skate hire for families. Photo: The Central AppWellSouth funding assisted Uruuruwhenua Hauora to hold the discos for tamariki and rangitahi. For the junior disco Matariki themed activities were provided, including free face painting and a sausage sizzle. In Naseby the Erewhon cup ice hockey tournament was held. Eleven teams from across the South Island entered (in two divisions), and games were played over four days.The Erewhon Cup is one of the the oldest sports trophies in New Zealand, dating back to 1938.  Six teams contesting division one (the Erewhon Cup) were Alexandra Flames, Whakatipu Goldrush, Ice Junkies, Gore Grizzlies, and the Dunedin Penguins. Six teams made up division two (Opawa Cup): the Maniototo Hawks, Alexandra Renegades, Gore Moonshiners, the Dunedin Bulls, the Wild (Christchurch), and Dunedin Beast.The Alexandra Flames won all four pool games, made the final, but ended up losing 1-3 to the Dunedin Penguins. The players in the Alexandra Flames team on Saturday night, prior to what one player described as their “crushing” defeat. Photo: Supplied The Maniototo Hawks were runner up in the other division two (or B) final to the Dunedin Bulls (0 - 2), after also making it through pool play unbeaten. Photo: Supplied Next year the tournament will return to Tekapo. The competition is always played on an outdoor rink if possible. The Alexandra United Football Club (AUFC) men’s team clinched the Central Lakes Football league division one title winning 13 of their 14 games this season. They played the Queenstown Falcons at home (Pioneer Park) on Saturday. AUFC won the game 3 -0 and won the title for the first time in seven years.Seasonal Solutions Alexandra. Photo: Santana Minerals CO Football League The Alexandra Armadillos played the Maniototo Maggots in Ranfurly on Saturday, losing by three points (18-15). Armadillos player and captain Tyler Ford was the first player to bring up 100 points during the season at this game.   Have a story to share?Contact [email protected] 

It’s getting closer to Election 2025 in October and there were now four candidate information sessions around Central Otago for those intending to stand.A joint meeting with Central Otago District Council and Otago Regional Council will be held next Tuesday (July 1) in Alexandra, followed by another one in Roxburgh on July 4 for just CODC. A further meeting will be held in Cromwell the following Tuesday (July 8) and an online Q+A on Thursday July 10. This week the Central App talks to Cromwell based district councillor Cheryl Laws on her thoughts leading into the election.Will you be standing again?I am putting my name forward for the Central Otago District Council, Cromwell Ward. Why?I have enjoyed my time as a councillor and community board member. It’s very satisfying when a project comes to fruition and I know the council has done something that will benefit the community. How long have you been involved with CODC?I have served two terms as a district councillor and a community board member. What achievement are you most proud of in the time you have been a councillor?Some time ago the Cromwell Community Board agreed upon a design for Gare Estate stage two. Frustratingly this took significantly longer than anticipated however, I’m pleased this development is back on track and I intend to make sure the integrity of the original design is adhered to with green spaces and priority given to first time purchasers before going to the open market. What advice do you have for any new candidates standing?Be patient, things don’t move fast in local government which can be incredibly frustrating. You are only one vote around the table and as a district councillor you represent the whole district not just your ward. But I think most importantly, you need time. Sometimes there is significant reading required to prepare for council meetings, community board meetings and workshops. What do you see are the pressing issues in your ward?Rates affordability is becoming a critical issue facing our district. Central Otago is a very popular part of New Zealand to live and managing this growth incurs increasing costs for our ratepayers. Constant regulatory changes imposed upon local government by central government with no extra funding leaving our rate payers bearing the brunt of the costs associated to these changes. Having said that, Central Otago is a wonderful place to live and that’s why we all live here.Find out more about the candidate meetings here.

Tickets are now on sale for the chamber music festival At the World’s Edge (AWE).The festival will return to Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes for the fifth time in October with a programme that explores the complex relationship between music and nature, organisers say.“As a festival rooted in the landscapes of the Southern Lakes, we’re constantly inspired by our surroundings,” AWE festival director Justine Cormack said. “It’s a privilege to celebrate five years of extraordinary performances with artists and audiences who share our belief that music, like nature, can shift our perspective and stir something deeply personal.”The festival will open with a weekend in Wānaka and the world premiere of a newly commissioned string quintet by John Psathas; the ambitious two-cello work is one of two new pieces commissioned for AWE 2025. It is one of seven performances - including celebrated chamber works, lesser-known pieces, and bold new compositions - plus a series of free events.Performances will come from country’s most acclaimed chamber musicians including pianist Michael Houstoun, cellist James Bush, and Composer in Residence John Psathas, joined by a cast of renowned international artists including UK violinist Anthony Marwood, US violist Yura Lee, and Australian harpsichordist Erin Helyard.AWE’s series of public performances, workshops and talks will extend the conversation beyond music, with acclaimed architect Fred van Brandenburg set to share insights into biomimicry and design, and Olympic freeskier Jossi Wells planning to explore the parallels between performance, creativity, and the alpine environment.Following the main ticketed performances, AWE continues with a week of school visits, during which AWE artists bring chamber music directly to students of all ages across the region.At the World’s Edge will run from October 4-12, with performances in Cromwell, Bannockburn, Wānaka, and Queenstown.Find more information and book tickets at the festival website.

Property managers and insulation companies are noticing a huge upsurge in home owners upgrading their houses under new Healthy Homes standards.Government requirements that came out in 2019 ensured any private house that was rented had to have both ceiling and underfloor insulation, but landlords were given from between 2021 and July 1, 2025 to comply.LJ Hooker Alexandra property manager Kate Snape said there was a noticeable number of landlords have had assessments on their insulation requirements done in recent months.Mammoth Modern Insulation company - which is nationwide but has a base in Dunedin, has been seen around Alexandra fitting new insulation into properties.The Central App spoke to a long-term Mammoth employee who said it was good the government was putting the onus on landlords to upgrade their houses.“In the past they didn’t have to do it because they weren’t living in them.”He thought by upgrading the houses to make them warmer, it would encourage tenants to take more pride in their property as well.Kate said the rental market has changed, with many new properties becoming vacant in Cromwell and Alexandra, as low interest rates allowed more first home owners back into the market.With new families moving into the area and the rental market opening up, people are being given more options, she said.Find more information about the new standards here.

Almost 18 months after former Central Otago District Council (CODC) mayor Tim Cadogan spent time as a parking warden around the district, the council will soon officially start dishing out tickets.Central Otago District Council is once again putting the spotlight on parking behaviour as it reactivates the community education campaign in preparation for parking enforcement to begin in late July. The initiative builds on work in early 2023, when council consulted on changes to its 2020 Roading Bylaw to allow for better parking management and to align with the Land Transport Act. "We're picking up where we left off," CODC regulatory services manager Lee Webster said. "Our focus is still on education for now - talking to drivers, leaving friendly reminders on vehicles and encouraging people to be more mindful of where and how they park." Drivers may receive a friendly reminder if they are parked:On yellow linesOn or blocking a footpathOver the time limit in a time-restricted parking spaceIn a mobility space without displaying the required permit "Parking is free across Central Otago, but that doesn't mean it's a free-for-all," Lee said. "There are rules in place to make sure parking is fair and safe for everyone - particularly in our busier town centres like Cromwell and Alexandra." CODC continues to receive complaints from the public about unsafe or inconsiderate parking. As a result, it is signalling a move toward active enforcement, including issuing infringement notices. Once enforcement begins, parking infringements will range from $20 to $750, depending on the offence. “Our aim is to keep our streets safe and accessible. We want to ensure roads remain clear, mobility spaces are available for those who need them, and to promote responsible parking practices,” Lee said. Drivers are encouraged to take a moment before parking to check the signage and be mindful of parking correctly. "We're giving people every opportunity to adjust their habits before infringements begin," Lee said. “If everyone does their part, drivers won’t ever need to see a ticket on their windscreen.”Read more: Mayor tackles parking problemPHOTO: Supplied

Twenty four bricks have already been sold in the Molyneux Turf Incorporated (MTI) Buy a Brick community campaign.MTI spokesperson Nikki Heckler said it was exciting to see "a wee run of people" supporting the idea straight after its launch ten days ago.Central Otago District Council (CODC) has agreed to provide a $300,000 grant in the long term plan toward the project - an artificial turf where the old tennis courts at Dunstan High School are.Nikki said donations were in from local families, many of whom were hockey players or had children playing hockey.“Someone has bought one from Australia, as a memorial for their mother who was a former hockey player from Omakau. That’s pretty cool, to step up and help a turf go in [from overseas].“My grandmother was made a life member for her contribution to hockey, we’re thinking we’re going to buy one as a memorial for her too,” Nikki saidThe $250 bricks can be paid for via online banking, or an invoice can be sent. Each brick will be engraved with two lines of text of 16 letters and spaces.  “People don’t have to pay for it now, the bricks will be made and installed right near the end of the project - we are aiming for within 2026.”  She said a group of people had been working on bringing the project to life for 20 years.The expected cost is $1.8M, and more fundraising activities are in the pipeline, as are funding applications to local funders like Central Lakes Trust and Otago Community Trust. A feasibility study for the project said in a best-case scenario (high participation and high population growth) Eastern Central Otago hockey player numbers could increase by 50 per cent, between 2024 and 2048.If businesses or individuals were interested in donating to the turf project they can contact [email protected] more: New turf backed by council grant.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Each week, Mayor Tamah Alley shares a one-minute snapshot of the week that was, highlighting key decisions, updates, and the issues her team is tackling on your behalf.Democracy works best when your voice is heard. Tap into Let's Talk for ways to connect and be heard, from surveys and drop-in sessions to writing directly to Mayor Tamah Alley. She’s committed to making sure your voice is part of the decision-making.Click here to go to Mayor Tamah Alleys website.

A fortnightly series about those moving here to call Central Home.An anxious six month wait is over for Reno’s Emily Schmith after her visa was approved this month.The 32-year-old US citizen met partner Dunedin’s Gareth Williams in early 2024 while she was travelling around New Zealand. After staying in touch for a few months, Emily moved in with Gareth on an orchard in Central last April.She’s jumped into community life here, while working remotely as a faculty led coordinator at University Studies Abroad Consortium, recruiting US students to go overseas for a portion of their university studies.She has taken on a volunteer event organising role (the "social bitch") for the charity Good Bitches Baking’s Queenstown Central Otago chapter.Emily stumbled across a volunteer role at Otago Community Hospice’s biography service, applied for it, got selected, and completed a weekend’s training to be a transcriber.“I get to listen to this person’s story. They’ve lived a life, that’s what they’re doing. It’s a privilege.”So far she’s transcribed interviews for two people, calling it “mostly interesting” but more time consuming than initially expected.Whenever she can she helps at planting days for Haehaeata Heritage Trust and other not for profit groups, and said missing “the social life of a big city” means she says yes to anything and everything she can get involved in.She’s become the striker of the Alexandra United Football Club’s women’s team, making new friendships across the district through sport.Her ‘up for anything' attitude has led her to orienteering, quiz nights, art workshops, gigs, bowling, book clubs, and more.“I love running into people randomly here… and I’ve always said I’d like a small town life.”Hockey player Gareth and footballer Emily. PHOTO: Supplied Washoe Valley (30 minutes from Reno where Emily grew up) is small with lakes and mountains, but it doesn’t have wineries and orchards of Central. Before she left on her travels Emily lived in Reno, a city of 400,000, also known for its proximity to the mountains (Sierra Nevada) and as the birthplace of the first riveted blue jeans, created by Jacob Davis and Levi Strauss in 1871. The future for Kiwi drain layer Gareth and Emily isn’t laid out yet, but presenting evidence to immigration of their genuine partnership, and figuring out all the tax implications of her US employment, has given them three more years to build their life together. Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

More than 3,200 people have voted on the Central App poll asking how they felt about the proposed Bendigo gold mine by Santana Minerals.A majority 64 percent were against the mine, a further 15 percent very concerned, and only 19 percent supported it.Last weekend lobby group Sustainable Tarras Inc shared the Central App’s poll on social media, encouraging people to respond, saying “and tell others in your household who might have an opinion”. Meanwhile, the Wānaka App ran the same poll and has so far received 182 responses, with an equal number in support and against.Sustainable Tarras organised two “urgent public meetings” in Dunedin and Wānaka this past week, and questions were asked about why Santana wasn’t invited and why the meetings weren’t held in the towns mostly affected by the commercial mine.A panel of its own experts spoke at the meetings, including Dunedin MP Rachel Brooking, environmental historian Dr Jonathan West, and Matt Sole from the Central Otago Environmental Society.Landscape architect Di Lucas addressed the Wānaka meeting, along with RMA lawyer Rob Enright and Green Party List MP and ecologist Lan Pham.Sustainable Tarras group member Suze Keith said the Dunedin meeting went well and the audience was super engaged, while Wanaka’s meeting had more than 200 people registered.“There is clearly a great deal of concern out there,”she said.Santana has said while the project would be assessed under the fast-track approval process - which aims to streamline projects of national significance - there was mandated legislation and standards that would need to be met, including the Resource Management Act and associated regulations and national policy statements. Santana Minerals has held its own public drop-in sessions at Tarras and Cromwell to discuss the project, with two more planned in coming weeks.Click on our past story to cast your vote on the proposal. Goldmine meetings in Central Otago heating up

A driver died and three passengers were injured when their vehicle rolled on a farm near Millers Flat shortly after 10pm last night.Police were called to the property after reports a single vehicle had run off the road and rolled.One person was pronounced dead at the scene.Three others with minor to moderate injuries were taken to hospital.Police said the cause of the crash is under investigation and they are providing support to the victim’s family.

Matariki long weekend is the perfect time to slow down, reconnect, and explore some of the special spots around Central Otago. Whether you're looking to get active, take in some local culture, or simply enjoy a great meal in good company, here are three top picks worth checking out:Oturehua Art Show Idaburn in Winter, Tony Stanford ShieldsSupport the community and be inspired by the creativity of local artists at the annual Oturehua Art Show, on all weekend at the Oturehua Hall.This year’s lineup is impressive: Expect vibrant Neo-Impressionist landscapes by Tony Stanford Shields, stunning natural light photography by Birgit Krippner, evocative pastels by Debbie Moore, politically-charged sculpture by Martin Sullivan, and handcrafted ceramics by Ruth Arnott. Buy or adore.It’s open all weekend (Friday 10am–8pm, Saturday 10-5pm and Sunday 10am–6pm), and entry is by koha. Don’t forget to vote for the People’s Choice Award, winner announced Sunday at 5:30pm.Whatever you choose to do, we hope your Matariki weekend is full of warmth, connection, and discovery.Ice skating, Curling or Luge - It's all here..Take a drive to the historic village of Naseby, and visit Maniototo Adventure Park. The Southern hemisphere’s only dedicated indoor curling rink. Fully accredited and ideal for curious first-timers or seasoned curlers eager to sharpen their skills. Feel the rush as you race down the Gold Rush luge track. Click here to bookBike It Now! - Clyde, Cromwell and WānakaIf you’re after fresh air, big views, and a bit of a leg stretch, Bike It Now! has everything you need to explore Central Otago’s iconic trails.From the epic Lake Dunstan ride to the serene Clutha Gold and Roxburgh Gorge, their expert team can sort you out with a bike, a map, and all the local knowledge to make the most of your ride, whether it’s for a day or a multi-day adventure.Their Clyde shop is the heart of it all, offering bike hire, retail, and expert planning services seven days a week. It’s no wonder they’ve earned rave reviews for their friendly service and smooth planning, ideal if you’re after a stress-free way to get out and soak up the trails this Matariki. Click here to book.Chatto Creek Tavern If you’re out and about this weekend, especially on the Rail Trail, don’t miss a stop at the historic Chatto Creek Tavern. This mud brick pub, dating back to 1886, is a local gem known for warm hospitality, hearty meals, and a sunny garden bar perfect for a relaxed afternoon.From classic pub meals to lighter options, the menu’s packed with local flavour and the wine list’s worth a look too.Bookings are essential for dinner, so plan ahead if you’re looking to settle in for the evening. Whether you’re cycling through or just craving a laid-back afternoon with friends, Chatto Creek is a top Matariki pick. Click here to bookFor more things happening over the weekend, go to The Central App What's On or for all Things to do. If you're going away for the long weekend don't forget to check the Roads.If looking for a home - there is an extentive list of homes open for viewing this weekend under Real Estate, Open HomesWhatever you choose to do, have a safe, warm and fulfilling weekend. From the Team at The Central App.

Funding for six new teaching spaces at Dunstan High School has been announced by Education Minister Erica Stanford.The announcement yesterday (Thursday June 19) of $27M investment into new infrastructure will ensure schools meet the needs of their communities and “get ahead of new growth”, the minister said.The funding will support construction of six new teaching spaces at Dunstan High School and a 12-teaching space expansion at Te Kura Whakatipu o Kawarau.Erica said the announcement builds on the government’s commitment to ongoing investment in school property, and follows recent announcements to support growth in Canterbury and the Central North Island, and the provision of specialist education.“Quality education is crucial to growing the regions,” she said. Planning for the two projects is underway and is expected to begin in the next 12 months, she said. “This means that students, families and the Otago community can benefit sooner.”South Island Minister James Meager said the new classrooms “are an investment in the future of young learners in Otago Central Lakes”."There is huge potential for Otago Central Lakes to become a hub for digital and tech investors, alongside our traditional backbone industries of tourism and agriculture,” he said. The education minister said the use of standardised building designs and offsite manufacturing has lowered the average cost of a classroom by 28 percent, allowing 30 percent more classrooms to be delivered last year compared to 2023. PHOTO: Supplied

Matariki celebrates the Māori New Year and is a time for people to gather, honour the dead, celebrate the present and make plans for the future.This year, the public holiday falls on Friday 20 June. (today)It became an official public holiday only in 2022, but it's already become one of our most meaningful days and the first holiday to recognise Te Ao Māori. It was the first new public holiday since WaitangiDay became a public holiday in 1974.The date of Matariki changes from year to year, but it will always fall in June or July.There will be plenty of Matariki events throughout Friday and the weekend, and RNZ will be featuring coverage throughout. click here for LIVE celebrations.What's open?Trading restrictions don't apply to Matariki in the way they do on Easter holidays, Christmas or the first half of Anzac Day.Shops, restaurants, cafes and other businesses can be open as usual, but they can close if they wish - so it pays to check opening hours beforehand.Will there be surcharges?Hospitality businesses can add a 15 percent surcharge to their services to cover the costs of paying employees time-and-a-half.If a business does charge a surcharge, they must have clear signage communicating this to the customer. Customers can complain to the Commerce Commission if they feel they have been misled about surcharges.Puanga and Matariki pictured above Ruapehu. Photo: Supplied/Richie Mills and NAIA Limited.What is Matariki all about?Matariki is the name of a star cluster in the constellation of Taurus, commonly known as Pleiades. In mid-winter, the stars rise and herald in Te Mātahi o te Tau, the Māori New Year.The word 'Matariki' is an abbreviation of 'Ngā mata o te ariki o Tāwhirimātea' or 'the eyes of the god Tāwhirimātea'. Matariki was taken as a wife by Rehua and she gave birth to eight children, each star having a unique purpose and defined role in Te Ao Māori.Traditionally falling at the end of the harvest, the cluster's rise marked a time of abundant food and feasting. Today, people across Aotearoa gather to celebrate the day with plenty of kai, stargazing, and community gathering.Why does the holiday date change each year?Matariki public holiday is observed on different dates each year.This is because Māori follow an environmental calendar system that considers the sun, the moon, various stars, and other ecological indicators to determine time.The Matariki public holiday dates fall on the closest Friday to the Tangaroa lunar period during the lunar month of Pipiri. Tangaroa is not a single phase of the moon but rather the last quarter period of the lunar calendar. Because of this, the dates to celebrate Matariki will differ from year to year.Future public holiday datesIn 2022, the Matariki Advisory Committee set out the Matariki public holiday dates for the next 30 years.2025 - 20 June 2026 - 10 July 2027 - 25 June 2028 - 14 July 2029 - 6 July 2030 - 21 June

Budget 2025 introduced a range of changes to KiwiSaver that aim to boost long-term retirement savings, particularly for younger workers.At Central Financial Planning, we believe these changes present both opportunities and challenges. Now more than ever, it’s essential to understand how the rules affect you, your ideal future, and your finances.What’s Changing?1. Contribution Increases (Phased In):From 1 April 2026, the default employee and employer contribution rates will increase from 3% to 3.5%, and then to 4% by April 2028. While employees will have the option to remain at 3% in the short term, this change represents a shift in the default savings culture, nudging all working New Zealanders to put more toward their retirement.2. Government Contributions Adjusted:The Government’s contribution will be halved from $521 to $261 per year starting 1 July 2025.High-income earners (those earning over $180,000) will no longer be eligible for this annual top-up.But good news for younger workers, 16- and 17-year-olds will now become eligible for both government and employer contributions, starting July 2025 and April 2026 respectively.A Mixed Bag for Savers and EmployersAt Central Financial Planning, we support initiatives that help New Zealanders build better financial futures. Increasing the default contribution rate is a step in the right direction for long-term retirement security.A 4% contribution, from both employee and employer, can make a significant difference over a 30–40 year working life.However, reducing the government’s contribution and removing it altogether for higher earners sends a mixed message. Many clients have come to rely on that top-up as part of their savings strategy.The reduction may also disproportionately affect lower- to middle-income savers, who benefit most from the relative boost it provides.For employers and small businesses, the phased increases in compulsory contributions may present budgetary challenges, especially in tighter economic environments.We recommend business owners factor these changes into their long-term payroll and cashflow planning early.Don’t Miss Out on Your Government ContributionWith the government contribution reducing from 1 July, now is a great time to review your KiwiSaver account to make sure you’ve contributed enough to receive the full entitlement this year.To receive the full $521.43 government top-up, you need to contribute at least $1,042.86 of your own money between 1 July and 30 June. If you haven’t hit that target yet, there’s still time to top up before the deadline.Young Savers Benefit, and That’s a Good Thing!One of the most encouraging shifts is the inclusion of 16- and 17-year-olds in the KiwiSaver incentives.This change gives young people a genuine head start — not just in financial contributions, but in cultivating good saving habits early.With employer and government support, the compounding benefits of long-term investment can start making a real difference from a younger age.What’s Next? A Possible Shift in the Retirement AgeWhile not part of this Budget, there’s ongoing conversation about raising the age of eligibility for NZ Superannuation.If the retirement age shifts from 65 to 67 or beyond in future years, this may also influence when you can access your KiwiSaver funds.It’s important to understand how these broader policy moves could interact with your retirement planning.Now is the Time to Get AdviceAt Central Financial Planning, some of our core values are transparency, trust, and proactive engagement to equip people with knowledge to help them make confident, wise and informed decisions.These changes mean more of your income will be going into your KiwiSaver. That makes it even more important to ensure you’re invested in the right solutions, with the right strategy for your goals and life stage.Ask questions. Check your settings. Top up your account if needed.Understand your fund type. If you’re unsure where to start, reach out. We’re here to guide you, because it’s your future, and it’s worth getting right.

The Alexandra Blossom Festival is the town’s biggest event of the year every September, and wouldn’t be possible without its amazing volunteers.Te Wiki Tuao ā-Motu National Volunteer Week shines a spotlight on the incredible contributions of volunteers across the country, and we talked to one of the names who's been involved in many roles with the festival over the years.Dianne Elliott was awarded the Jan Belt Memorial Trophy in recognition of an outstanding contribution to Alexandra Blossom Festival in 2018.Starting off as secretary of the committee for 12 years from 1996 – 2008, she started helping the late Pam Love with the princesses in about 2004, then gradually took over from her.After a break she came back in 2010 and also took on the job of finding all of the gatekeepers.With five gates around Pioneer Park needing to be staffed all day of the festival, Dianne had to find 60 people in total to check tickets when the crowds came into the park.There’s never been any shortage of volunteers for the role and even the reserve list had another 60 names on it.“This means I can be calling up to 120 people to fill those five gates…some people have been working on the same gate in the same time slot for many years and don’t like change.  “Unfortunately, some of these people are now getting to the stage where they feel they can’t do the job any more because of their age or ill health, which means we have to find fresh blood, with younger people, ideally those in the 30-45 age bracket whose kids don’t want anything to do with their parents on blossom festival day.”Dianne’s other job was contacting businesses to get prizes for the gift packs for the princesses (and in the case of last year a prince too).“At the moment there are 28 businesses involved. These businesses are very generous and without them it would be very difficult. Again, some have been giving gifts for many years.”Then there was the three judges to organise, the the photographer, sashes, flowers for the three winners, events for the contestants to attend, (including the official judging), leading up to the Saturday of blossom festival, and the events for the three winners to attend - as well as doing all of the paperwork.“I also organise people to count votes, usually 4-5 depending on the number of floats. We are on a tight timeline to get the votes counted prior to the official ceremony and again, we have a great team who come back year after year to help with this.”The work doesn’t just stop there. On the day, Dianne delivered the flowers and gifts to the park, and once the procession was over, checked the contestants were okay on their float and being looked after with warm clothes (if necessary), water, until it’s time for them to get off (usually an hour and a half later).One of many volunteer gatekeepers at the blossom festival. Alexandra Blossom Festival chairwoman Sharleen Stirling-Lindsay said it was the volunteers who made the festival possible. “The festival could not run if it wasn't for the amazing volunteers.” “Volunteers make our community and event what it is and I am so grateful for the time and energy they give.” Blossom Festival event manager Martin McPherson echoed her sentiment and said each volunteers’ generosity of spirit, time and talents was a true reflection of the community. “The incredible dedication of so many wonderful people behind the scenes is what truly brings the Alexandra Blossom Festival to life.” “Their efforts highlight the strong community spirit that makes this event so unique and cherished."

Resource consent applications are being finalised for the new Kawarau Arm boardwalk, and Contact Energy will also complete trial plantings this Spring to see what is suitable for the hydro lake environment around Old Cromwell.The company expected to start the construction phase of the project in early 2026, once consents were granted and the design completed, including land reclamation, a jetty extension, boardwalk development and planting.Contact Energy said one of the landscaping challenges was to plant species that could withstand and thrive in the unusual environment of fluctuating water levels of a hydro lake. “This will be considered during the choice of species being developed with mana whenua and ecologists; to test this we intend to complete trial planting this spring to understand if the species identified are appropriate for the intended area.”The beautification project around the Old Cromwell area was in line with Contact’s consent conditions, to mitigate adverse effects caused by its generation activities on Lake Dunstan and the wider Clutha catchment.It has been accepted the lake is returning to becoming a braided river — a known consequence of the construction of the Clyde Dam -- which has caused sediment build-up and driftwood, affecting access to the boat ramps and jetties, along with weed and algae odour.Head of hydro generation Blair Croall said they planned to lodge its resource consent applications for the beautification project in early July.He said they were currently working on developing the applications and the process included engagement with key stakeholders and consenting authorities, as well as developing the design to enable construction.“The Cromwell waterfront, a valued community asset where the town's history meets the beauty of nature, holds immense potential for rejuvenation and enrichment in response to the projected sedimentation in the Kawarau Arm of Lake Dunstan.”https://centralapp.nz/NewsStory/old-cromwell-boardwalk-plans-progressing/67ad080ff7c709002d1a537a

Each week, Mayor Tamah Alley shares a one-minute snapshot of the week that was, highlighting key decisions, updates, and the issues her team is tackling on your behalf.Democracy works best when your voice is heard. Tap into Let's Talk for ways to connect and be heard, from surveys and drop-in sessions to writing directly to Mayor Tamah Alley. She’s committed to making sure your voice is part of the decision-making process. Click here to learn more.

The founder of a landmark study following more than a thousand babies born in the early 1970s has died.Dr Phil Silva, who started the Multidisciplinary Health and Development Study - commonly known as the 'Dunedin Study' - died on Thursday, aged 84.He began the study, which followed the lives of 1037 babies born at Queen Mary Maternity Hospital, Dunedin, in 1972.Current Dunedin Study director Professor Moana Theodore. Photo: SuppliedCurrent Dunedin Study director Professor Moana Theodore said he was "an interesting academic", who previously worked as a former primary school teacher and psychologist.Teaching rural children in the 1960s underpinned his life's work, she added."He always had a passion for teaching, and helping support children and their families."A masters degree and doctorate in research focused on children began under Otago University lecturer Dr Patricia Buckfield in the late 1960s, Theodore said.Buckfield had an interest in neonatology and gathered data on every baby born at Dunedin's Queen Mary obstetric hospital between 1967-73. This lead to the creation of the Dunedin MultidisciplinaryHealth and Development Unit, under Silva's direction.Theodore said Silva was an energetic mentor, who "took people along with him", and this bolstered the study's success, despite the odds of little funding."In the very early days, that meant he was able to bring on board hundreds of volunteers, who would help the study."He was incredibly driven, he had this huge energy and he faced almost impossible odds to set up the Dunedin Study in those early days, but he didn't let a lack of resource deter him."Through this ability to create relationships and to bring people on board with this greater purpose of improving other people's lives, he was able to get hundreds of volunteers to collect data and thathas been something that's made the Dunedin Study really special."The study's 90 percent participation rate - more than 50 years later - was "unparalleled in the world", she said."A lot of that is to do with it's really a community study - it's proudly the Dunedin Study, it's not just the Dunedin Study - and that began with Phil."Silva mentored both the previous director - the late Professor Richie Poulton, who ran the study after Phil retired, beginning in 1999 or 2000 - as well as Theodore, she said."He hired me originally as an interviewer at the age-26 assessment phase, when the study members were 26, back in 1998, and he always kept actively involved in supporting and providing advice tome as well."He was so passionate about improving the lives of others and, starting in early life, he once argued publicly that New Zealanders, as a whole, could be seen to care more about their cars than they didabout their children. They would check cars every six months to a year."His research and his vision for improving lives resulted in things like more routine check-ups for children, particularly in pre-school, and this growing understanding of health in those early years, suchas the high rates of glue ear, and the need to show compassion to our children and young people, particularly if they were seen to be going off the rails."The study made the cover of Time magazine in 1993 - a year before he was awarded an OBE for services to health and education."The headline read, 'All you need is love'. That summed up how Phil really felt about children and young people."Silva left behind "an incredible legacy" said Theodore. "We continue to work to uphold [that] and we're seeing study members now at age 52, through this lifetime of service."Dr Phil has left this legacy and a taonga [prize] for New Zealand, which leaves behind the best childhood foundation guarder in the world - and the most studied group of people anywhere in the world."

Anybody standing or just curious about the role and responsibility of being a district or regional councillor, is invited to a joint presentation in Alexandra on Tuesday July 1.The Otago Regional Council and Central Otago District Council are holding five presentations during June and July for anyone wanting to learn more about what is involved if you become a councillor.Topics covered during the presentation include:how the council is structuredthe role and responsibilities of elected representativesskills requiredanticipated time commitmentsmeeting schedulesan overview of the nomination and election processeshttps://www.orc.govt.nz/get-involved/events/2025/july/candidate-information-presentation-with-central-otago-district-council/We continue our pre-election coverage with another Q+A - this time Otago Regional Council Dunstan ward councillor Gary Kelliher responds:Will you be standing again?  YesWhy or why not?I have been encouraged to stand again by a number of people and I feel there's unfinished business with the delayed Land and Water Plan, and attempting to rein in escalating rates, and ideological decision making.How long have you already been involved exactly?I had an initial term 2013 to 2016, and then from 2019 until now.What are you most proud of/achievements in the time you have been a councillor?That's a tough question as I have found myself evolving into a position thats almost continually at odds with most other councillors and staff. I don't pride myself in having to regularly challenge with negativity, however to me I’m not prepared to just go with the flow and accept what regional councils have become...a monopoly on resources that cost more and achieve less. What advice do you have for any new candidates standing?To new candidates I say that if you want a cruisy role and you have a tendency to agree to everything put in front of you, then in my mind please reconsider. Local and regional government is very broken in this country, councils are run by their staff and not enough councillors say no. We desperately need more councillors who will say no.What do you see are the pressing issues in your ward that you are particularly passionate about?The ORC needs reined in, rates brought under control, escalating staff numbers brought under control, and the council turned from being restrictors and halters of everything necessary to the region. We have to turn the focus towards growing our economy and at the same time protecting the environment. And stop council being a major impediment to the hardworking ratepayers of the region who just want to get on with that.https://centralapp.nz/NewsStory/deputy-mayor-to-leave-central-otago-district-council-after-nine-terms/682f8be31591fb002e65855d