Welcome to the next installment of our "My Town" series.This initiative is to find the charm and attractions of diverse small townships nestled in the heart of Central Otago. Our aim is to provide holiday-makers with an immersive experience that delves far beyond the well-known landmarks, such as Cromwell’s iconic big fruit sculpture and the majestic Clyde Dam. The series will unfold with weekly releases every Saturday and Wednesday until the 26 of January. Over this period, we will cover towns of Central Otago, exposing the region's hidden treasures from a locals perspective.Episode 8. AlexandraTall Poppy Real Estate business owner Peter Hishon welcomes readers to Alexandra, population 6120.How did your story in Alexandra begin?It began with school holidays, camping at Matakanui, rabbiting everyday and digging up old relics around the township. Twenty years later I had the opportunity to work here in the meat industry and now I have been here 35 years.Alexandra is known for being a picturesque town: a new bridge (built in 1958), stands alongside the old bridge towers, built in 1882 over the Mata-Au (Clutha) river. PHOTO: Will Nelson What is it about Alexandra that you couldn’t live without and why?The four distinct seasons. Our hot dry summers with lots of fresh stone fruit, then the colourful autumn with very intense colours, the dry cold winter and finally the spring blossoms.Shaky Bridge above the Manuherikia River is a spot for a stroll or a nearby riverside picnic. PHOTO: File Where’s the best spot in town for lunch?For me, it’s often lunch on the run in Alexandra from the Sushi Café on Centennial Ave, or if I’m in Clyde from Recharge Bar on Sunderland St.A ten minute drive from Alexandra, Recharge bar has fresh pressed juices, coffee and organic food. PHOTO: Supplied What’s a fun fact about Alexandra?It’s the driest region in New Zealand, has only 355mm rain per year (or 14 inches).What’s one thing people need to check out when visiting Alexandra?It’s famous pinot noirs.Where in Central Otago do you like to escape to and why?Ophir’s Pitches Store or any of our golf courses early in the morning.Alexandra Golf Course hole seven ‘The Ridge’ a par four, has views of the ranges, as does much of the undulating desert type terrain 18 golf course on the edge of town. PHOTO: Supplied Proudly sponsored by TyreLAND

A French national is facing four charges of careless driving causing injury after a head-on crash near Butcher’s Dam on January 3.Alexandra Police Acting Sergeant Graham Perkins said the female driver coming from Roxburgh allegedly missed the turnoff to Conroys and carried on along State Highway 8, before making a U-turn and driving back along the road on the right hand side.When she approached the corner to turn off, her vehicle hit a Toyota Hiace carrying a family from Invercargill and their eight year old, who had to be airlifted to Dunstan and Dunedin hospitals.The family were now recovering at home, but the passenger in the other vehicle driven by the female was still in intensive care with a broken femur and lower leg, along with internal injuries. Acting Sgt Perkins said the driver had been in the country for a while but had a momentary lapse of concentration where she forgot what side of the road to drive on.He said there had been many reports of particularly overseas drivers also not adhering to the speed limit, including one driver near Tarras who was clocked at 150 km/hr.“It has just been incredible the number of tourists driving at excessive speeds,” he said.Unnecessary overtaking was another common factor on the roads over the Christmas and New Year period, including the Devil’s Staircase where, fortunately, drivers were picked up on dash cams.

A group of Cromwell and Wakatipu chicks called The Birdies are participating in the Longest Day Challenge on Thursday at Millbrook Resort and the Arrowtown Golf Club.Sounds like a fun girls day out, but the reason behind the event is actually for quite a serious cause.The eight friends have all been affected in one way or another by cancer, and are raising money for the Cancer Society by doing what they love.Seventy-two holes in one day was four times the usual amount of golf a person would play, and the girls will starting at 6:30am and finishing when they finish - 36 holes at Millbrook followed by 19 holes at Arrowtown.“We expect to be finishing up about 8pm in the evening and will continue regardless of whatever the weather gods choose to throw at us on the day,” participant, Jackie Hamilton said. The Birdies were very grateful for the two clubs' donations of accessible tee-times, carts and green fees. Without the two clubs' involvement, they wouldn't have been able to achieve this. Their goal is to raise $8000 and so far they have managed almost $2500.This was the third year in a row The Birdies have gathered together, with some slightly different members each year for the Longest Day Challenge."We are also grateful for our support crew who will be cheering us on from dawn to dusk, bringing food and drinks out onto the course so that we can concentrate on the challenge at hand. The team have decided to dress in Hawaiian theme this year to represent the many bright and variable attributes and attitudes that support crew can bring to the cancer patient.” Team member Jo Neep said living with cancer was both a mental and a physical challenge.“Multiple myeloma is treatable, but not curable which means it never goes away. It festers inside growing slowly until it breaks through the drug barrier, only to be battered back by stronger more toxic chemo. “Currently there are only a handful of treatments available. Meanwhile the body see-saws between being ravaged, to looking and feeling okay. The Cancer Society understand this fight and are a good sounding board providing counselling and practical help when required.  “I am both touched and proud that my golfing buddies are continuing the effort to raise funds for the Cancer Society.  Last year I was too sick to join them. I am honoured that they want to take up this challenge again. I hope that others can find it in their hearts to support this good cause." Visit the team's The Longest Day page to provide support.

Alexandra Rotary Club’s Annual Charity Book Sale is over for another year, this time raising $31,000.The four-day-long event, which took place at the Alexandra Community Centre on January 1 to 4, is a popular new year tradition for many people, including some who enjoy holidaying in the area.Co-organiser and past president Kevin MacKenzie said while books made up a large portion of items on offer, puzzles, magazines, CDs and DVDs were also popular. This year about 60 people were waiting for the doors to open on day one, and many others flowed in throughout the event, proving just how popular it is.Of the money raised, a portion of it will go to the Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter Trust, making it the third year the trust has benefited.Overall, the event has raised more than $600,000 for various groups throughout its 36 year history.The hard working committee will now take a well deserved break and will start sorting items for next year’s event over Labour Weekend.“From start up to clean up, it’s a big job,” Kevin said.Read more: Annual book sale attracts large crowds

Maniototo Area School teacher Sam Stevens is shifting his focus as he prepares to leave the classroom for more time on the land.Sam, who farms at Poolburn, has decided to leave his regular teaching role of almost 20 years to spend more time farming, but will still provide assistance to students in an agricultural capacity when required.His teaching career started in Invercargill in 1998 where he trained as an English and art history teacher.Tempted by opportunities overseas, Sam left New Zealand for England in 1999 where he taught children with learning difficulties in London.In 2000 he went on to teach at a school in Kent, which had a 20-30 acre farm attached.“So, I did some general farming stuff there and teaching.”He returned to New Zealand and went on to teach English and art history at Southland Girls’ High School in Invercargill from 2001 to 2002, and in 2003 Sam and his wife, Deb, who is also a teacher, bought their farm at Poolburn, prompting their next move.By 2004 Sam was dividing his time between the farm and Maniototo Area School where he had taken on a role as a relief English teacher.However, half way through that year he had welcomed another role as an art teacher and over the years also enjoyed teaching agriculture.“It’s only a wee farm [at Poolburn] so we were always going to need to do some teaching as well,” he said, of why it was never just one career, or the other.Sam said there is plenty he will miss at Maniototo Area School, but nothing more than the people.“I will miss the kids - always the kids - and the staff, there’s good people there.”The school’s new $11 million rebuild, which is now complete, is also something he was going to miss.“There’s nice facilities,” he said.“It’s a shame I’m getting out just when it’s all new.”However, he is not giving up on teaching entirely. Instead, he will be working for Primary ITO in a relief capacity at Dunstan High School and Maniototo Area School, sharing his knowledge with Central’s next generation of farmers.

A robust business case was needed for the Cromwell Memorial Hall to justify spending $43 million, the Central Otago district’s deputy mayor says.Neil Gillespie said there was still a lot of work to be done to get it across the line, including operating and depreciation costs, and council still needed to approve the tender for the rebuild. Four companies were shortlisted in that process and this was the single biggest capital project he had been involved in since his time in local government in 1998.The Cromwell Community Board, at its November 28 meeting, decided it needed to understand the total cost of the project, what its operating model would look like and how it would be funded.“It has taken awhile, but with numbers like that you have to get it right. There’s too much at stake to get it wrong.”The estimated $43 million was an “eyewatering” amount of money, and the community board couldn’t just keeping saying yes to everything.At its closed meeting on November 29 community board members questioned the long term picture of the $43 million hall.Board chair Anna Harrison said this was a significant project "and we want to be sure that we fully understand the ongoing costs of operating the building and what the impact will be on rates. “The information that has been presented to us is really complex. We want to be sure that we get it right so that we end up with an asset our community can be proud of.”The cost of maintenance and eventual replacement of the hall also needed to be carefully considered.The old hall will be demolished to make way for the new facility, plans for which include a 400-seat auditorium, cafe, cinema, flexible community and meeting spaces and the Cromwell Museum, according to council documents.Local aggregates will be used in the building and the design is intended to reflect the Central Otago landscape and its people.Funds for the build have been set aside in the council’s long-term plan, apart from about $11 million to come from grants and land sales.Construction is expected to take place this year once budgets are confirmed.

Welcome to the next installment of our "My Town" series.This initiative is to find the charm and attractions of diverse small townships nestled in the heart of Central Otago. Our aim is to provide holiday-makers with an immersive experience that delves far beyond the well-known landmarks, such as Cromwell’s iconic big fruit sculpture and the majestic Clyde Dam. The series will unfold with weekly releases every Saturday and Wednesday until the 26 of January. Over this period, we will cover towns of Central Otago, exposing the region's hidden treasures from a locals perspective.Episode 7. OmakauAlice Caron and Marie Dubois, of Muddy Creek Cafe, welcome readers to Omakau, population about 400.How did your story in Omakau begin? It all started when we launched Fishwives Smokehouse, an artisan smokehouse we created in 2020. The smokehouse was in Omakau, so we would commute from Queenstown every week to smoke the fish. We stopped at Muddy Creek pretty much every time for a pie and a baked good. And, one day decided to view it. The rest is history.Enjoying the sun outside Muddy Creek Cafe. PHOTO: SuppliedWhat is it about Omakau that you couldn’t live without and why? We couldn’t live without the community feel of it. Omakau without its people would not be Omakau. That is what is attractive when coming from a bigger town.Here everyone knows and helps everyone, it is delightful to be part of it.Where’s the best spot in town for lunch? We could be biased but Muddy Creek Café for sure.What’s a fun fact about Omakau? Maybe the good old joke “Oh my cow”!The Otago Central Rail Trail brings a lot of people to Omakau. PHOTO: James Jubb / Tourism Central OtagoWhat’s one thing people need to check out when visiting Omakau and why? Muddy Creek café of course! More seriously, walking along the Manuherikia river is one of the (most) peaceful things to do around here.Where in Central Otago do you like to escape to and why? Naseby is our absolute fav! Such a cute village surrounded by the forest and mountain ranges, a great café and overall vibe!

A popular programme to help parents and caregivers across Central build a healthy relationship with their child will return in the coming months.The Incredible Years Parenting Programme, taking place in Wānaka from March, is open to people throughout Central Otago who want to develop strategies to better understand and support their child, aged three to eight.The free programme, held over 14 weeks each Tuesday evening during the school term, is a Family Works Presbyterian Support Otago initiative, which takes place each year, either in Alexandra, Cromwell or Wānaka.It provides practical step-by-step suggestions for parents and caregivers to handle everyday family situations, including strategies to help manage challenging behaviours and have a better understanding of their child.A spokesperson for the programme said the most common themes the course supports people through are parental separation, anxiety and having two working parents due to the cost of living.She said the programme follows the same format each year, but discussion amongst group members reflects the challenges that arise for people, which are relevant to today.The course provides an encouraging and supportive group learning environment. It also offers individual support throughout the 14-week programme, or ongoing support following it.“It also provides a space for parents to gain the skills and knowledge to strengthen their relationship with their children and be able to have a kete (basket) of tools to utilise in a variety of situations.”She said there are many benefits that come from taking part. While both parents are encouraged to attend, it is still beneficial if only one can make it.“[Outcomes include] less challenges for parents/caregivers, they have a better understanding of the emotional needs and developmental stages of their children [and] children develop strategies for emotional regulation through a positive relationship with parents/caregivers.”Feedback from previous participants has been positive.“People have enjoyed getting to know other parents and to know that they are not alone in their parenting journey. Everyone takes away something different from the course and despite it being 14 weeks, each week builds on the next,” she said.“Parents/caregivers have also reported a greater understanding of their child and a greater self-awareness as a parent.”Anyone wanting to attend can talk to the organisers if travel or childcare costs are an issue.The 2024 programme will take place from March at the Wānaka Community Hub, 34 McDougall St, on Tuesdays from 6pm to 8.30pm.The course will be offered in either Alexandra or Cromwell in 2025.For more information and to enrol call Sharleen on 0508 396 678, text 021 244 7756 or email [email protected] learn more about Family Works, visit The Central App’s community button.

Water testing is becoming a way of life for a selection of Omakau School children.Each year the school’s senior pupils embrace the role of water testing for the Thomsons Catchment Project, a task they complete once a month at about seven sites.And, each year those children pass their knowledge and skill-set on to the next set of senior children who will take the reins the following year.  Year 5-8 teacher Wanda Jaggard said the school’s Year 8 pupils spend the last weeks of their time at Omakau School training Year 7 children on how they do the testing and what they test for, including things like e-coli and water clarity.This year marks the third year since the children started taking on the responsibility and have enjoyed the process and the lessons it has taught them along the way.A wetland, which forms part of the Thomsons Catchment Project, can be seen from a section of the Otago Central Rail Trail, not far from where the trail meets Alton St, near the Omakau Golf Club.“It’s so close to us [at the school] and it’s such an amazing project,” Wanda said.Taking part in some water sampling are (from left) committee member Roger Williams, Will Gillespie and Zac Dougherty. PHOTO: Thomsons Catchment Project Among those who will be taking on the role when they return to school in the new year are Pip Tucker, Charlotte Kirk and Sophie Groundwater.They will take over from Zac Dougherty, Will Gillespie, Wiremu Haraway and Alexis Henderson.The children, along with McKenzi Hamilton and Milly Gillespie, who will both be in Year 7 when they return next year, also spent a day towards the end of last year helping to plant 50 kōwhai as part of the project. Omakau School children checking the quality of water alongside Becky Clements, of the Otago Regional Council. PHOTO: Thomsons Catchment ProjectThe Thomsons Catchment Project, which is led by local farmers, aims to improve the quality of water and biodiversity in the area.Other aspects of the project have so far included planting of other native species around the new wetland, which help filter out nutrients and keep the stream clean.About 600 carex secta have already been planted, while another 45,000 of the native grasses are also expected to go in, along with other species.A wide range of groups have supported the project, including Otago Regional Council, Ministry for the Environment, Fish and Game Otago, the Department of Conservation, Aukaha, local businesses and the wider community.Those groups were recognised for their efforts via a recent catchment group newsletter.“The generosity and support from everyone involved has made this a very special project,” it read.

People sleeping in vehicles that are not certified or self-contained could soon be banned from freedom camping spots, but tents will still be allowed.The Central Otago District Council considered a new Freedom Camping Bylaw in December, but have deferred a decision until after summer, with some councillors warning they will “cop it in the neck.”Both Mayor Tim Cadogan and deputy Mayor Neil Gillespie reminded the council about issues from several years ago, before Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) took control of the situation at its freedom camp spots around Lake Dunstan.Lowburn and Bendigo particularly were becoming congested and facilities overflowing, causing concerns for residents and others trying to use the areas recreationally.The situation had settled with Covid-19 disrupting overseas backpackers from coming into the country, but early numbers at freedom camp spots this season are already looking strong.A report to council by parks and recreation manager Gordon Bailey showed Cougar Security had noticed peak numbers were already back to pre-Covid-19 levels.In particular, the smaller tourist camper vans, and also an increase in local people living rough - but mostly from Friday night to Sunday.Pinders Pond Reserve near Roxburgh was becoming a year-round, long term camping location, driven by the housing crisis and rising rental costs.There have been increased levels of domestic issues and intoxicated campers refusing to be moved on due to not being able to drive, in recent times.The council noted in its report that people experiencing homelessness were exempt from infringements relating to freedom camping. Pathways for assistance for people experiencing homelessness would be explored. The report said recent changes to freedom camping legislation was anticipated to reduce the number of small non-self-contained tourist camper vans, but also possibly increase those living in tents.LINZ currently has designated Bendigo and Champagne Gully as sites where non-certified self contained vehicles can camp, but Lowburn and Jacksons areas only allow certified self-contained vehicles.The council has agreed to monitor the effectiveness of these recent changes and enforcement provisions in freedom camping legislation over the 2023/24 summer season.They would also defer a decision to development a Freedom Camping Bylaw until after the April 2024 council meeting.Gordon said depending on what happened over summer, the council could choose to develop a freedom camping bylaw, which could help manage the impacts of freedom camping.“The changes to the freedom camping legislation that came into force [last] year may change campers’ behaviours, so the monitoring [of] camping behaviour on council land over summer will help make an informed decision on whether a freedom camping bylaw should be developed or not."

Crowds gathered at the Omakau Racecourse to make the most of one of Central Otago's ‘cooler’ summer days.Families, campers, picnickers and holidaymakers turned up to support Omakau's annual trotting meet when the event returned to the area yesterday. Families brought picnics and elaborate set-ups to the races.Punters were kept busy with 11 races happening across the day, including the big race - race 9 with a prize pool totalling $40,000.Winner of Race 9 is Franco Indie driven by Blair Orange. Children were kept entertained with many free activities, including the bouncy castle.The top 10 Fashion in the Field entrants looking glam. Having fun at the races are (from left) Finn (16) Scarlett (9) Siena (13) Isabelle (18).PHOTOS: The Central App 

Welcome to the next installment of our "My Town" series.This initiative is to find the charm and attractions of diverse small townships nestled in the heart of Central Otago. Our aim is to provide holiday-makers with an immersive experience that delves far beyond the well-known landmarks, such as Cromwell’s iconic big fruit sculpture and the majestic Clyde Dam. The series will unfold with weekly releases every Saturday and Wednesday until the 26 of January. Over this period, we will cover towns of Central Otago, exposing the region's hidden treasures from a locals perspective.Episode 6. RanfurlyRaelene Miller welcomes readers to Ranfurly, population 780.How did your story in Ranfurly begin?I grew up in Ranfurly with my family on a small farm. Went to primary school at the area school before moving away to boarding school.After high school I moved away to Australia to work and travel, before moving back to Ranfurly in 2018.This past year my cousin and I decided to open a wee cafe in the heart of Ranfurly.It's been the best decision we've made to make a base in Ranfurly, not only having the rail trail booming and all the travellers through, but our wonderful local support has been out of this world. What do you think is one of Ranfurly's hidden treasures and why?In summer it definitely has to be our local swimming pool!It's right beside our brand new playground and the pool is such a great resource to have in town, it's perfect for families. Ranfurly is good place to take a break while doing to Otago Central Rail Trail. PHOTO: James Jubb/ Otago Central Rail TrailWhat is one piece of advice you would give to someone planning a visit?Probably to take time to explore not only Ranfurly, but the surrounding areas. There's some awesome wee places, walks and secret swimming spots all around us.Chatting to local business owners to get their advice is also a great way to get directions and insights to their favourite spots.The business owners are always there to help and are always up for a chat to visitors.Where’s the best spot in town for lunch?Definitely Floral and Feast!(I may be biased - as I own it, but we think it's pretty great).Joanna Steele (left) and Raelene Miller, who both co-own Floral and Feast in Ranfurly. PHOTO: SuppliedWhere in Central Otago do you like to escape to and why?My favourite place to escape to would definitely be Naseby Forest.There's amazing walking and bike tracks, my dog loves zooming around the trees and my wee boy loves throwing pinecones in the water race and playing on the playground in the forest.Plus it's only a five minute drive down the road.

Did you hear the one about the mother in Southland who tried to get off her speeding ticket by telling the police officer she was yelling at her children?When it comes to speeding, New Zealand Police have heard it all, and in Alexandra they have been spun a few good stories too.“Is this all you have to do?” Senior Constable Graham Perkins has been asked, along with “go and catch some real criminals,” and cheekily “we pay your wages,” even crops up from time to time.There have been stuck jandals to stressed out dogs and a mother who was going 40km/hr over the speed limit who explained to police she got distracted while telling her children off.Despite the excuses, NZ Police’s new speeding campaign was no laughing matter, and officers will be out in full force keeping our roads safe this summer.Southern District road policing manager Inspector Brent Kingsland said while there was no excuse to speed, the reasons they heard on the daily were too funny not to share, but also hoped through the humour people would realise the consequence to their actions.“From ‘I’ve never had a ticket before, can I have a warning?’ to ‘I didn’t see the speed sign’, our police have heard everything,” Inspector Kingsland said.“There’s nothing funny about attending a death on our roads.“Every opportunity we can take to reduce speeds, even by a fraction, has the potential to make a huge difference to safety on our roads.”Inspector Kingsland said officers heard the same old excuses from drivers when they’re caught speeding, time and time again.But, police often also have to witness the horrific consequences when there’s a crash.Among some of the other excuses police have heard was 'there isn’t a speed limit here, it’s a passing lane and you can go as fast as you like to overtake safely'.Then there's the 'it’s not me, blame the car,’ mentality."But it’s not, it’s the driver,” he said.“In a crash, even when you’re not at fault, speed remains the single biggest factor in whether you and your passengers walk away or are carried away.“It’s simple: less speed means less harm.“We want you to get to your destination, so slow down, drive to the speed limit and drive to the conditions. And, know that you can expect to see Police out on the roads – anytime and anywhere.”

Thousands of books are drawing big crowds in Alexandra and it is all for a good cause.Yesterday marked day one of the four-day Annual Charity Book Sale, a fundraiser hosted by the Alexandra Rotary Club.The event is a popular new year tradition and this year is no exception, as people flock to the Alexandra Community Centre in Skird St, in search of some summer holiday reading.Co-organiser and past president Kevin MacKenzie said about 60 people were waiting for the doors to open yesterday, while many more followed throughout the day.“The first day is always our biggest day. That’s the day you get dealers and people who are really keen on getting something specific, so they line up and they come in, which is great.”Holiday-makers also make up a large portion of people who come through the doors.Holiday-makers Angie (left) and Laurelle Hopkinson (5), of Bluff, search for some books on opening day. PHOTO: The Central AppOverall, the event has raised more than $600,000 for various groups throughout its 36 year history.Kevin said this year marks the third year funds have been raised for the Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter Trust, with last year’s event raising $28,000.A wide range of genres and titles will be available to choose from until January 4. PHOTO: The Central App“That’s our target for this year - we try to see if we can do better each year.”For many years the event was held from Boxing Day, but it was shifted to New Year’s Day and the group has not looked back since.“It works really well,” Kevin said.“It suits the people better because we aren’t messing with their family Christmases now, so it’s to stay on January 1st.”The sale will end on January 4.

Tinder dry conditions are keeping Central Otago fire crews busy.Crews from Clyde, Dunstan, Alexandra and Tarras were called to a grass fire in the Waikerikeri Valley area at 1.50pm today, while more crews are on their way to another grass fire on Moutere Disputed Spur Rd, near Chatto Creek.The fire in the Waikerikeri Valley area has affected about one hectare of land, but has been contained.Some of those crews are now responding to the fire on Moutere Disputed Spur Rd, which is also being attended by Omakau and Blackstone.No further details were available.Fire and Emergency New Zealand shift manager Bailey Wells said conditions were still very dry and Central Otago remains under a prohibited fire season.The Central, Naseby, Upper Waitaki Lakes, Glendhu Bluffs and Lake Ōhau zones moved from a restricted to a prohibited fire season on December 18.A prohibited fire season means a total ban on open-air fires and all previously granted fire permits are suspended.Bailey said it was important people remained vigilant, even when doing tasks like mowing lawns, which could cause sparks to ignite.Anyone who sees smoke should call 111. 

Welcome to the next installment of our "My Town" series.This initiative is to find the charm and attractions of diverse small townships nestled in the heart of Central Otago. Our aim is to provide holiday-makers with an immersive experience that delves far beyond the well-known landmarks, such as Cromwell’s iconic big fruit sculpture and the majestic Clyde Dam. The series will unfold with weekly releases every Saturday and Wednesday until the 26 of January. Over this period, we will cover towns of Central Otago, exposing the region's hidden treasures from a locals perspective.Episode 5. NasebyAdrian Hood welcomes readers to Naseby, population 140.How did your story in Naseby begin? We moved from the Danseys Pass to Naseby to run the Ancient Briton Hotel and then the Royal Hotel. What is it about Naseby that you couldn’t live without and why? The mountains, the climate and the vibe - the perfect combination and quite possibly the main reason people love to visit.The Royal Hotel can help you recharge during a visit to Naseby. PHOTO: Geoff MarksWhere’s the best spot in town for lunch? Trick question, but have to go with Royal Hotel! Whether it’s a basket of chips you are after, or a gourmet meal, the Royal Hotel has it all. And, don’t forget to check out the range of Central Otago wines and beers on offer. The building also has a great vibe and celebrates the town’s rich history - so don’t forget to check out the photographs on the walls.What’s a fun fact about Naseby? We are 2000 ft above worry level. The holiday season embraces that notion, whether it’s people passing through on their bikes, staying at their holiday home, pulling up in their campervan, or locals from nearby areas who have made it their destination for the day. What’s one thing people need to check out when visiting Naseby and why? The indoor curling rink, the luge tracks and mountain biking trails in the forest. The town has many hidden treasures waiting to be explored.Naseby is a popular destination for mountain bikers. PHOTO: Mike BlewittWhere in Central Otago do you like to escape to and why? Clyde, another of the district’s quaint towns, which is rich in history, just like Naseby.Proudly sponsored by TyreLAND

Welcome to a new year.As we all know, the stroke of midnight often comes with a sense of “new”, from new adventures, new goals and a new outlook on life.While many of us have locked in one or all of the above, what brought us to make that commitment differs.In some cases, people are keen to break away from bad habits or experiences, while others simply want to embrace the clean slate 2024 can offer, or carry on what they started in 2023.For me, 2023 was full of unknowns and challenges. However, it’s important not to let those times overshadow the good. And, as I look back, there were plenty of great moments that will be forever etched in my history book.At the top of that list was, without a doubt, marrying my best friend.A few challenges followed soon after, including my redundancy from Alexandra Wastebusters, which closed down in the middle of the year.While it was tough on my bank balance and mental state, I’ve come out the other side, back into the world of journalism.So, here I am and I will be forever grateful.I’ve had a great time reconnecting with Central Otago’s wide ranging communities, from sports groups to artists and social clubs to service groups and everyone in between.Our team at The Central App takes a lot of pride in being able to share your stories and we can’t wait to tell many more of them in 2024.So, if you hear of someone doing great things, or you have your own story to tell, we want to hear about it.Let’s see how much news we can pack into 2024 together.You can share your news by emailing [email protected]

As Christmas quickly approaches, many of us plan to take our annual leave during the summer season.After a challenging year, this break offers a chance to recharge alongside loved ones, often near a beach or lake, enjoying a few BBQs. While it's a crucial time for our well-being it's also essential to ensure the business is in good shape before we leave, so you can truly relax this holiday break. This break also offers time to think about the future of your business in the coming year.Here are some top tips to ensure you return refreshed and ready for the New Year, rather than feeling stressed and playing catch-up.Get your business affairs in order before the holidayTo make sure you enjoy a well-deserved and stress-free wellness break, prioritise getting your business affairs organised before you leave. From experience, the festive season can make it tough to motivate yourself to ‘finish things off’, but doing so is crucial as it will impact your well-deserved break.Complete as much as possible before your break to truly disconnect. If some tasks can't be finished, communicate openly with suppliers and customers in advance. Clear communication ensures everyone understands the situation and aligns their expectations with yours, making it smoother for all involved. Good communication is key!Make sure there's a solid cash flow plan for the festive seasonThe holiday season can pose cash flow shortages or challenges for businesses. Revenue tends to dip while operational costs remain steady.Have a solid plan to cover your fixed expenses during this period. Consider discussing a temporary overdraft facility with your bank to ensure enough financial flexibility. Finding solutions during the festive period can be tough, as the whole country tends to run on a skeleton crew during this time. Creating a plan for the holiday break can often save you from last-minute stress. Encourage your staff to take a well-deserved break tooIt's an incredibly important time for your employees to all have a well-deserved break too. In New Zealand, with our holiday cycle, there are not many people that I chat with at this time of year who are not looking forward to (and needing) a decent break. If you're a business owner able to do so, I highly recommend encouraging your employees to take a proper recharge.It's not just about doing the right thing; it also benefits the employer. Giving employees this time off tends to boost employee engagement in the coming year. People return refreshed and motivated, ready to tackle the New Year with renewed energy and enthusiasm. Plus, it helps manage your holiday leave liability, ensuring it stays at a reasonable level (no business wants to pay out an employee leaving with a hefty accrued leave balance). Take time to reflect and set new goalsAfter you've caught up on rest and spent time with loved ones, it's a good idea to review the past year. Take time to reflect on the business success and (equally as important) areas that didn't go as planned and what you would do differently. With fewer emails and calls coming in, it's an excellent opportunity for reflection, learning, planning and goal setting. This clear headspace offers the perfect time to set both personal goals and professional goals. Creating realistic goals and action plans for the upcoming year ensures you return from your break revitalised, prepared and ready to go after a well-deserved break. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New YearWherever you may be celebrating this festive season, I and the BDO Team, wish you and your families well over the Christmas break. I hope everyone has a safe, fun and relaxing holiday.Here's to a fantastic 2023 ending and a warm welcome to all that 2024 brings!    

A mixed bag of weather is in the forecast for today’s end of year festivities across Central.MetService meteorologist John Law said New Year’s Eve weather was “looking like an unsettled story”, with the prospect of showers and possibly some thunderstorms and hail to see out 2023. Fine weather is expected to return by New Year’s Day.High pressure is building across the country for the start of 2024, which would mean many parts of the country will have a good start to the new year with “plenty of dry and fine weather in store”.“Central Otago looks to be one of the warmest spots with a forecast high of 25 degrees Celsius, similar to Hawkes Bay and Gisborne.”However, people are encouraged to keep an eye on weather forecasts, due to their ever changing patterns, which had been the case over much of the holiday season so far.John said MetService’s rain readings since Christmas had shown there had been 18mm at Wedderburn, 13mm at Alexandra and 9mm at Cromwell. He said while there is some rain in the forecast later in the week, the general trend is for a drier start to the year.People can keep an eye on thunderstorm charts here. To keep an eye on weather reports, click on The Central App’s weather button. Read more: Recent rainfall benefits the Maniototo.