A certified marine engineer and skipper who once worked on the Cold Gold Clutha gold mining operation told a hearing in Cromwell this week, the operation had significant environmental shortfalls.Cold Gold Clutha Ltd has applied for resource consents (land use, water and discharge permits) through the Otago Regional Council to suction dredge further up the river, moving from the Millers Flat-Beaumont area, to upstream near Luggate.A consent duration through until February 25, 2031 - just over seven years - has been sought for all consents.  It has currently been operating between Roxburgh Dam and Tuapeka Mouth for the past 10 years.The new dredging area on the river will cover from the Luggate Bridge to the confluence of the Clutha and Lindis rivers.Former Lyttelton Port marine engineer Reginald Hall, who has lived in the Upper Clutha area for 20 years, made a live submission to the ORC hearing on Wednesday, opposing the operation.He also worked for Cold Gold Clutha Ltd and made it clear his departure was amicable.A total of 36 people in total submitted against the proposal, but the applicant has also put forward a strong case being led by Terramark Ltd.Reginald told the hearing, design issues on the dredge when he was employed meant it had to be removed from the river temporarily, and he was surprised to learn after 10 years many of the issues had not improved.Unburnt diesel fuel moving out of a valve resulted in exhaust emissions, which were then discharged into the Clutha River, and the dredge ran on a “dirty, noisy and inefficient” old engine.He said the odds of a fuel spill were extremely high and he believed there were no maritime qualified crew to respond to any emergencies.To remain afloat, the dredge would also have to be located in the middle of the river, and was very limited in its response to move away from other vessels, he said.“The river is considerably narrower than the lower Clutha River and will be “severely restricting” other vessels, he said.Consultant planner Josie Burrows, on behalf of the ORC, recommended the application be declined.She believed there was inadequate information to assess the effects of the suction dredging proposal on cultural values. While the applicant commissioned a Cultural Impact Assessment, Aukaha advised that inadequate information had been provided to mana whenua to assess whether the proposal provided for cultural values, including the mauri of the water (ecology, biodiversity and archaeology.)

Dunstan High School principal Reece Goldsmith will soon be calling it a day after seven years at the helm.Ending his tenure on July 5, 2024, Reece intends to have a good break before deciding what his next career move will be.The 56-year-old has taught at seven high schools throughout New Zealand, and has been a principal for 10 of those, formerly at Mackenzie College in Fairlie before he and his family moved to Alexandra.Reece was raised in Tokoroa and is married to Kira, who is also a teacher at Dunstan High School.Dunstan has played a pivotal role in his career, being the school he has worked at the longest throughout his 32-year-long career.“I felt it was time now to look at other opportunities. But, this has been the most rewarding place I have ever worked in.”Being a high school principal was all consuming, but it was clear his passion for the job was still there - now he feels it’s someone else’s turn.With eldest son Tom heading off to Waikato University next year and Ollie (17) in his last year at Dunstan in 2024, Reece was also keen to broaden his own horizons and see what else was out there.He said teenagers were at times emotional and not always rational, but seeing some of his students grow and change throughout their secondary years was immensely satisfying.“It has been such a privileged profession to be in, and I will miss that part of it hugely,” he said.The reactions from teachers have been mixed, some obviously were sad while others have given him acknowledgement of a job “reasonably well done,” which was nice, he said.The couple don’t plan to move anywhere just yet - Reece and Kira have found Alexandra the best place to bring up kids and would love to stay living here.The huge sense of community and ‘hands on’ role that parents/grandparents/caregivers and wider family play in children’s lives in Alexandra was particularly noticeable, compared to other areas they have lived, he said.Challenges as a principal over the years have included finding the balance with technology, “and dealing with that trial by social media,” where young ones were constantly interacting with each other online, more than ever.He’s proud of how far Dunstan High School has come in terms of catering for the diverse needs of all students, and being more adaptable and flexible to their demands.Reece believes New Zealand has a world-class assessment system for education and with such a wide range of subjects within the curriculum nowadays, it was a whole different world than when he was at school.“If I started now I would be way more engaged than in the 1980s.”Reece started out with a Physical Education Degree alongside a Bachelor of Arts in History at Otago University, then followed a stint as a ski guide in Switzerland and Colorado.Those who follow national rugby may remember his brother Jasin Goldsmith, who was once the country’s youngest All Black at 18. Unfortunately, a broken leg ended his career.Both of Reece’s sons are national level kayakers and compete overseas, so there is still hope in his family for more New Zealand champions. And, as for Reece himself, his future plans are still unknown, but for now the last few weeks of the school year are his focus.

Summer is on its way, a period which can bring the risk of water restrictions and boil water notices to parts of Central Otago.Over the past couple of years, several towns in the district have suffered the consequences of floods and demand exceeding production.In January 2021 a flood event prompted a boil water notice in parts of the Maniototo.The flooding caused high turbidity raw water to enter the Naseby Water Treatment Plant, significantly affecting the treatment process.A boil water notice is a precautionary notice, aimed to safeguard health when the water supply has potentially been compromised.Among the reasons people can be required to boil their water is if tests show harmful microorganisms could be in the water, high turbidity in the source of water, or if the water pressure drops due to equipment failure or power outages.Boil water notices are also issued if repairs on a water main need to be done, if the water source has been flooded, if there is a significant inflow of stormwater, or in situations where special action needs to be taken to protect people’s health.Conserve water notices have also been issued throughout parts of Central Otago in recent years, which mainly aim to warn people that reserves are low, falling below 65 percent in dry weather, or in wet weather when water is dirty and the water treatment plant is unable to make the usual amount of clean water.A Central Otago District Council (CODC) Water Services team spokesperson said a conserve water notice aims to avoid a boil water notice.“It’s usually just a precaution, but sometimes it can be a lot more serious if the drinking water supply has been compromised by an event, or contamination.“Some of our ground water sources are vulnerable to drought and wet, eg Naseby, and sudden influxes of people during peak holiday times.”Niwa has this month launched its outlook report for the next three months, which shows Central Otago could expect above or near average temperatures and above normal rainfall.Strong fronts are also expected to occasionally impact the region, bringing heavy rainfall and a risk of flooding.As summer nears, people are encouraged to start thinking about their water use, how much they use and why - with the garden being one place they can be more efficient.Niwa has launched its predicted outlook for the coming few months. IMAGE: NiwaTo support that concept, the CODC has launched a Dry Garden Competition, which will be judged on water efficiency and suitable placement of climate appropriate plant species.Entries close on January 31, 2024.For more information email [email protected] more: Water conservation tips.

Scams are continuing to do the rounds of Central Otago, prompting some groups to raise awareness.Alexandra Senior Citizens members recently attended a seminar about becoming scam savvy, hosted by an Age Concern Otago staff member from Dunedin as part of their SilverTech programme.Jo Ireland, of Alexandra Senior Citizens, said of the 18 people who attended, six had been scammed.The session taught people how to protect their personal and financial information, how to spot a scam and what to do if they suspect they have become the victim of a scam.She said the seminar was well received and, as a result, would be repeated in the new year, which the general public would be welcome to attend.Scams come in various forms, from those involving tax to purchase of merchandise, and can be targeted in a range of ways, including social media, text, email and phone, among others.Monday marked the start of Fraud Awareness Week 2023, an initiative to make people aware of what scams are out there and how to avoid them.Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) revealed on Monday that just under $200 million was lost to scams over the past year, according to 11 of New Zealand’s largest financial institutions.Investment fraud was one particular avenue scammers were going down, which MBIE had paid particular attention to.MBIE Fraud Awareness Week spokesperson Ian Caplin said scammers were targeting everyone across New Zealand, but especially those with savings or investments who were looking to earn a little bit more from their money.“It’s important to remember real investments don’t just come out of the blue. If it seems too good to be true, then it probably is. If you receive unsolicited investment offers via email or through a ‘cold call’, ignore it,” he said.“It’s illegal to sell financial products through these methods in New Zealand.”He said investors can contact institutions directly through contact details on official websites to verify documents and payment instructions before sending any money. The FMA website also contains details of warnings and real-life examples of scams.“If you think you’ve been scammed, stop all contact with the scammer,” he said.“Do not make any more payments and contact your bank immediately. Report all investment scams to the FMA, and scams in general to CERT NZ to stop others falling victim.”For more information about scams visit Netsafe and Consumer Protection.

‘A real sense of teamwork’ was behind two cultural events in Central last week according to Central Otago district’s Welcoming Communities officer.Alexandra Newcomers Network (ANN) partnered with Central Otago District Council (CODC) and Welcoming Communities to host an international potluck dinner at the Dunstan High School whare on Friday, November 10.Welcoming Communities officer and ANN committee member Heather Harries said about 20 people attended the dinner which had a “lovely and relaxed atmosphere”. Cultures represented were Argentinian, South Africa, Japanese, Indian, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.“The food was diverse and delicious including a Japanese curry, Argentina dish, German sausages, a classic shepherd's pie, Kiwi pavlova, a mix of Indian dishes and a Mexican chilli to try out.”Pierre Wiese, of South Africa (left) and Daiana Penizzotto, of Argentina, attend the recent international potluck dinner. PHOTO: SuppliedAttendees learned about the history of the wharenui (meeting house) and to sing a waiata. “The integration between Kiwis and migrants who have moved here was [evident], as was a real sense of teamwork. Partners got involved with cleaning up.”The second event was the celebration of the multicultural mural in Cromwell, which also was the opening for Bislama Language Week. It was held on Sunday, November 12, and included football, volleyball, short speeches, a karakia (blessing) and songs. Welcoming Communities officer Heather Harries spoke at the celebration for the Cromwell multicultural mural. PHOTO: Central Otago District Arts TrustHeather said about 130 people attended the mural unveiling, which had a great vibe despite “crazy wind” blowing in Cromwell.“The RSE [recognised seasonal employees] guys were there in great force, it was relaxed and everyone wanted to have a good time.”Pasifika Central Otago representative Kusitina Coalailago at the mural blessing. PHOTO: Supplied Whaea Francie Diver blessed the mural on Sunday afternoon. PHOTO: Supplied Several people had stepped up to bring the event together including Central Otago District Council communication and engagement officer Deborah Beange, Central Otago District Arts Trust co-ordinator Rebekah de Jong, Viticultura pastoral care Jo Ennion, Bislama Language Week volunteer lead Joan Lloyd, Shane Norton for support with football and Luana Cross from Grape Vision. Heather also thanked Pasifika Central Otago, Seasonal Solutions Cooperative Ltd and Welcoming Communities who provided food for the occasion including a stir fry, chicken curry and sausages and bread for a barbecue.Welcoming Communities is a programme led by Immigration New Zealand (INZ) in partnership with the Ministry of Ethnic Communities and the Human Rights Commission. Welcoming Communities works towards healthier, happier and more productive communities by welcoming newcomers into the local community.Learn more about Welcoming Communities in Central on the CODC website. Read more: Greetings to Bislama Language Week and Bislama Language Week brings connection.

Welkam! (Welcome) to the first ever Bislama language week, a new initiative which is running for two years as part of a trial.The Central App has collaborated with some local horticulture businesses and employers of recognised seasonal employees (RSE) from Vanuatu to create some short video clips of common Bislama phrases.We would love to hear people in Central giving it a go, so have a listen and let us know what you think by emailing [email protected]. We will play more across the week.Clyde orchards Kris Robb and Cliff Takaro practice ‘Mi glad blo mitim yu’ (I’m pleased to meet you).Clyde Orchards Kris and Fred demonstrate ‘olsem wanem?’ (how’s it going?).RSE Navahli Lava reads a final note from the Ni-van crew to Central residents.Bislama is a common language for people from Vanuatu (Ni-vans), where there are 113 distinct languages and many more dialects.Bislama is phonetically English, it has a melanesian grammar, resulting in complex ideas being expressed as stories, which are often a great deal longer than if told in English.Read more: Bislama language week brings connection.Read more: Celebration of Cromwell multicultural mural.VIDEO: Clyde Orchards and Viticultura.

A proposal to turn an old garden centre site in Cromwell into intensive new housing for the community has taken a U-turn, and now the applicants want to use it for travellers' accommodation instead.It marks the second accommodation business in Cromwell currently under consideration, but the consultant planner for the Central Otago District Council (CODC) has recommended they both be declined.Crum Developments was granted land use consent by a commissioner in September last year for six units within a single two-storied building onsite, as well as to subdivide into separate lots.The multi-unit development received strong support in the community, due to it aligning with Cromwell’s urgent need for more housing.But, now the plans have changed and the company is asking for consent to accommodate a total of 24 people in the two-bedroom units, a discretionary activity under the District Plan.A travellers' accommodation business on Shortcut Rd was recently shut down by the council after being served an abatement notice for operating without any consent.The company will face an independent commissioner hearing on November 21 in Cromwell, to determine whether they can continue the business.The latest units proposed for Cromwell would be in Barry Ave. PHOTO: SuppliedOnly two people have objected to the Crum Development proposal out of three submissions, including one who believed the application was contrary to the original consent, that the units were meant to serve as owner occupied residences for first home buyers or people downsizing.In the report to the CODC hearings panel, consultant planner Oli Monthule-McIntosh said while the applicant has promoted a management plan, “in my experience such management plans are generally only effective when there is an onsite supervisor available.”He also notes that the applicant intends to sell the units with the consent in place, which will result in each one being managed by a different accommodation manager.He said that would create significant difficulties for monitoring the compliance of the consent.Oli noted that the application “diverges from that original intent by proposing to convert these residential units into  travellers’ accommodation, thereby removing them from the local housing stock. This raises fundamental questions about the  appropriateness of the proposal in light of the  original consent’s objectives".He concluded that the proposal was inappropriate in the context that the underlying over-density multi-unit development was originally supported, in part, due to the perceived positive effects it would have on the local housing supply.“While the provision of travellers’ accommodation contributes to the local economy and tourism, its appropriateness within residential zones, to the exclusion of housing that was specifically consented to address a housing supply issue, is highly questionable.”

One of Alexandra’s iconic hotels looks set to change hands for the first time since the late 1990s.The Criterion Club Hotel, which first opened in 1880 - known by the locals as the ‘Middle Pub,’ is being marketed by Property Brokers Alexandra.The Flannery family have owned the pub since 1998, and the sale includes the freehold land and buildings, comprising 17 guest rooms, a bar, dining room and a games room on six titles.Coranne Flannery said she and her late husband Tony moved into the pub a year before Alexandra’s big 1999 flood.   Her daughters now own it and it is leased to another local family with a final expiry date of April 2032.Situated right next to the proposed Alexandra Riverside park project, plans are also progressing with the $3.46 million development, to rejuvenate the downtown area of lower Tarbert St.The original proposed plans for the Riverside Park Trust project.A trust, made up of local businessmen Rory McLellan, Lindsay Breen and Dave Ritchie are all involved, and project co-ordinator Lynda Gray said there have been some recent developments.“We are revisiting the original consent plans and looking at more of a staged approach with a plaza development at the south end, followed by developing the river access in stage two.”The Central Otago District Council agreed to support the development with a loan funded investment of $650,000 last year, and a report to the Vincent Community Board later this month will consider the next steps.“Funding is still an issue and there is a shortfall,” Lynda said.The Alexandra Riverside Park Trust has signed a Memorandum of Understanding for Stage 1 with council, and the parks and recreation team will lead the project in partnership with the trust and engage with local rūnaka.The development will link the township to the riverside by establishing a community and heritage greenspace and precinct, which will include a terraced riverside area, boat launching pontoon and local heritage elements.The project will provide a space and focal point for locals and visitors to the cycle trails and local attractions. The Criterion Hotel is being marketed by real estate agent Geoff Beckley who said proposed plans for the Riverside Park development will assist in unlocking the potential of the prime location of the adjoining pub. The deadline sale closes Wednesday, November 22.

Talented curlers from Central are making international headlines, qualifying for the World Championships while living in an unusual setting.The New Zealand men’s team is based in a retirement village in Calgary, Canada, following a social media post from World Curling Federation board member and former Australian Curling Federation president, Kim Forge, hoping to find them accommodation.Chartwell Colonel Belcher Retirement Residence answered their call.Their story has featured on television news, including Seven Sharp, The Project and Radio New Zealand. They have also caught the attention of radio and television outlets in Canada, the United States, including the New York Times) and on the World Curling Federation website.Brett Sargon said it feels great, but also crazy, to see how much attention the story has attracted.“As athletes we want to succeed on the ice, but we would also love to contribute to the growth of this great sport back in New Zealand. “We hope the interest in our story will raise awareness . . . back home. The dream would be for this to lead to greater resources [for curling]. “It would be amazing to be able to get some dedicated curling ice in Auckland, which we firmly believe would lead to the sport exploding in New Zealand,” Brett said. Three of the men’s team (Team Hood) have connections to Central: Hunter Walker (Kyeburn), Ben Smith and skip Anton Hood (Naseby). The other team members are Brett Sargon (Auckland) and Peter de Boer (Wellington).  Brett was the first to land in Calgary and he was immediately encouraged to join the local retirement home residents for a beer at Happy Hour.“They live up to the Canadian stereotype of being incredibly friendly and welcoming,” Brett said.“They didn’t judge a book by its cover and wanted to know our story.”The four Kiwi curlers are now at home amongst the 175 permanent residents of Chartwell Colonel Belcher Retirement Residence in the Canadian city of 1.6 million people.The NZ men’s team on day one of PCCC. PHOTO: Seixeiro PhotographyBrett said the team’s focus is to prepare the best they could for the World Championships at the end of March. “We are missing home and are so thankful for all the support and messages we have received while we chase our dreams over here in Calgary.”Team Hood (from left) Peter de Boer, Hunter Walker, Brett Sargon, Ben Smith and Anton Hood. PHOTO: Team Hood Facebook The women’s team have strong ties with Central; they either live here currently or grew up here, including; skip Jessica Smith (Naseby), vice-skip Bridget Becker (Patearoa), Natalie Thurlow (Becks), Holly Thompson (Ranfurly), Courtney Smith (Naseby), and women’s coach Sean Becker (Ranfurly) assisted by Nelson Ede (Naseby).Team Smith (from left) Natalie Thurlow, Courtney Smith, Jess Smith, Bridget Becker, and Holly Thompson. PHOTO: Team Smith FacebookThe New Zealand curling teams have both recently played in the Pan Continental Curling Championships (PCCC) in Kelowna, Canada (October 29 - November 4). The top five teams at PCCC have qualified for the World Women’s and Men’s Championships in 2024.The Kiwi teams matched last year's results, again both securing a fifth placing to qualify for their respective World Championships. The 2024 World Men's Curling Championship, which will be held in Schaffhausen, Switzerland (March 30- April 7) and 2024 World Women's Curling Championship will be held in Sydney, Nova Scotia (March 16 -24). Residents can follow Central curlers on the Facebook accounts, Team Hood and Team Smith.The Central App will update readers on the teams’ campaigns in the months as the World Championships get nearer.Read more: Maniototo brother and sister top curling doubles qualifierRead more: Special recognition for Becker familyRead more: Central curler wins top sportsmanship award

Poppies are starting to adorn street signs in Alexandra, commemorating ex-servicemen who had links to the area.The first of the signs will be unveiled during today’s Armistice Day memorial service, which will take place at 11am on Weaver Close, in Molyneux Estate, instead of the town’s cenotaph.Weaver Close is one of five streets in the area to feature the poppy emblem, marking the start of the Alexandra Poppy Places project, an initiative led by Alexandra-Clyde RSA and supported by the Central Otago District Council (CODC). The poppies are placed on streets named in memory of Central Otago servicemen, which also includes Stevens Way, Tohill Court, Walker Place and Kinnaird Close.Those streets represent Private Rex Joseph Stevens, Private Hugh Augustus Tohill, Trooper Charles Leslie Weaver, Sergeant John Weaver, Trooper Peter Weaver, Lance Corporal Reginald William Walker and Private James Kinnaird.Alexandra RSA executive member Paul Galloway said the project had been a work in progress since about April, after learning about the Poppy Places Trust.“I thought that would be a really cool thing to do and made a submission to the council that we did it in partnership.”He said the RSA identifies the streets and places that fit the criteria, ensuring it has a link to the military service, while the CODC funds and provides the new road sign and does the installation.Research is a big part of the process, something Jo Mullenger and Mark Davies had been an integral part of, Paul said.He said it had taken a lot of time and effort, but playing to each other’s strengths had helped.Today’s ceremony, which will take about 30 minutes, will include firing of the 25 pounder near the ice skating rink and vehicle access to Weaver Close will be closed from 10.30am to 11.30am.All other streets will be accessible as normal.People are asked to be gathered by 10.45am in time for an 11am start.Here’s a look at who the five Alexandra Poppy Places are linked to:Lance Corporal Reginald William Walker 16876, War Medal 1939 -1945 & New ZealandWar Service Medal. 2nd New Zealand Expeditionary Force (WW2).A local Alexandra man, Reginald William Walker (16/06/1918 - 28/11/43) was a dredge hand before he enlisted in the Army. He was one of two brothers who volunteered for active service with the 2nd New Zealand Division. Walker, who held the rank of Lance Corporal, was a member of 16 Platoon D Company, 23rd Battalion during the Italian campaign of 1943.Private Hugh Augustus Tohill 39359, Victory Medal & British War Medal 1914 -1920.New Zealand Expeditionary Force (WW1).Hugh Augustus Tohill (23/10/1892 - 25/07/1918) was born and raised in Alexandra, where he attended the local District School along with his three brothers Daniel, Edmund and John. Hugh became well known in the district for his prowess on the football field. On October 6, 1916, Hugh enlisted, joining the 22nd Reinforcements. He left New Zealand on February 16, 1917, aboard the Troopship Aparima bound for the Western Front.Private James Kinnaird 8/2638, Victory Medal & British War Medal 1914 - 1920. New Zealand Expeditionary Force (WW1).A resident of Earnscleugh, James Kinnaird (29/06/1893 - 27/09/1916) was an orchardist before he enlisted in the Army. Joining the 6th Reinforcements, he left New Zealand on the 14th of August 1915 aboard thetroopship Willochra, bound for Egypt; a staging post for the Dardanelles.Rex Stevens (05/08/1921 - 06 /02/ 2012) was employed as a printer for the local newspaper.Like so many others eager to do their bit, Stevens joined the Territorial Army, reporting to Burnham Military Camp on the 8th July 1941. In a 2005 interview for the Central Otago News, he described what happened next: “ {I} was shipped out to Egypt to train before joining the Allies in Italy just before the fall of Monte Cassino” (CO News 21/04/2005).Private Stevens served in the 23rd Battalion, 2nd NZ Division.Charles Leslie Weaver (known as Leslie) 9/890 served first as a Trooper in the Otago Mounted Rifles and then as a driver and gunner in the 3rd Battalion of the New Zealand Divisional Artillery Column. He saw action in Egypt, the Balkans and on the Western Front.Leslie Weaver was born in Clyde on the 9th Aug 1893 and was the third son of five, plus two sisters. His family’s establishment in the district followed a familiar pattern for the times. His grandfather came over from the Victorian goldfields when his father, Patrick, was a child and the family moved from gold mining to dredging and finally into orcharding. Leslie states his occupation as fruit-grower in his enlistment papers. Also of interest in these papers is the fact that he had done some compulsory military service with the Dunedin City Guard.Sergeant John Weaver 9/461. Distinguished Conduct Medal, Victory Medal, British War Medal 1914 -1920 & Meritorious Service Medal. New Zealand Expeditionary Force (WW1).A fruit grower from Clyde, in August 1914 at the outbreak of war John (24/08/1891 - 6/06/1945) volunteered for service in the Otago Mounted Rifles. After basic training, on the 22nd September John was shipped abroad with the rest of the first wave of volunteers, the ‘main body’ men. First to Egypt for acclimatisation for both man and horse, then on to Gallipoli minus their horses in May 1915, as the Allied losses exponentially increased.Trooper Peter Weaver 9/1747, Distinguished Conduct Medal, Victory Medal & British War Medal 1914 -1920. New Zealand Expeditionary Force (WW1).An orchardist from Clyde, Peter Weaver (24/06/1895 - 13/09/1919) was 20 years old when he enlisted in the Army on August 24, 1915. Attached to the 8th reinforcements, Weaver sailed for Egypt on November 13 that year. Arriving post Gallipoli, Weaver was originally assigned to the Otago Mounted Regiment(OMR), shortly afterwards he was transferred to the N.Z. Pioneer Battalion and sent to France. In July 1917 he was moved again to his preferred choice: a trooper in the OMR. There is some evidence that the influence of his elder brother John (Weaver 9/461), a Non Commissioned Officer (NCO) in the OMR assisted in the process.Learn more about Poppy Places

New Zealand’s first private galaxiid sanctuary is opening in Central Otago on Saturday, November 18.The sanctuary is the work of local property owners and freshwater project group Tiaki Maniototo (TM) at Spec Creek, a tributary of the Kyeburn River.The Central Otago roundhead galaxias (Galaxias anomalous) is found only in the Upper Taiari/Taieri catchment and in a few streams of the Manuherekia catchment. Spec Creek, is one of the best places in the world to find Central Otago roundheads. The naturally low flow means that few trout find their way up into the creek, and water quality in the stream is generally high. Phil Smith of Glenspec and Hamish MacKenzie of Kyeburn station have, with TM’s help, fenced off a stretch of Spec Creek on their properties, creating a corridor where cattle will be excluded.Phil said education about the native fish is a big thing.“If we can educate people about how endangered the species is, we can then start doing something about it.”Central Otago roundhead galaxias. PHOTO: Tiaki ManiototoFreshwater consultant Richard Allibone said the new sanctuary was highly significant.“Of all the Otago galaxiids, this is the least protected of all of them . . . [Phil and Hamish] have taken a step that no one else has."Richard said it represents a big shift in the general attitude of the farming community.“[We are going from] we know nothing about these things and don't really care about them, to actually, they're special to our area, and we’re doing something to protect them. It’s a whole switch in how we’re treating the stream.”The reserve is dedicated to freshwater ecologist Matt Hickey, who worked closely with the Kyeburn community and passed away last year. A carpark, a walking track and a kiosk for signage has also been built.Willows will be controlled in the sanctuary and trout periodically removed. Otago is a national hotspot for freshwater fish called galaxiids, with more species living here than in any other part of New Zealand.Most of these species are now under threat from competition with trout, altered stream flows and degraded habitat. For more information see Tiaki Maniototo’s website.

A Sport Otago researcher involved in designing a concussion framework for secondary schools around New Zealand, will be in Alexandra and Cromwell next week to share her knowledge.Kate Mossman along with ex-professional cricketer Shawn Hicks and Barry Grehan will be holding a series of free presentations on head injuries and mental health, on behalf of Sport Central, to help people understand and identify the symptoms and give support.ACC figures show that total concussion-related claims in the 13-19 age bracket have consistently exceeded 5000 a year since 2016, except for 2020 when Covid-19 disrupted sports participation.Rugby accounts for about 20 percent of concussion claims among teenagers, and in 2021 football, basketball, rugby league and winter sports were the other sports in the top five for concussion-related claims in that age bracket.Kate Mossman will be in Central next week. Kate was part of a team that co-designed Framework For Managing Concussions in New Zealand Secondary Schools (FRANCS), in 2021, which has now been rolled out to 12 across the country.She said the framework was about supporting teenagers back into learning, and helping them negotiate the academic demands of secondary school.“Early feedback is that we need some education around concussion in the youth space,” she said.FRANCS was also about making sure concussion was reported to the right people, and ensuring teachers, coaches and students were aware of the symptoms.Factors such as loud noises and bright lights can all have impacts on young people recovering from concussion in the classroom, and FRANCS links in with the school system to help make it happen.  Kate said while it looked like concussion was on the rise in young people, it may be that also people were recognising it more.Cromwell will be hosting a session on the morning of November 15, followed by an evening session at the Central Otago Netball Centre in Alexandra.Go to the Sport Central Facebook page to learn about these presentations.To register for any of the four presentations contact Jo Knight on 0272329390.Listen to more here with The Outlet podcast.

The Manuherekia Valleys Charitable Trust is calling for more people to help turn its dream of an Omakau Community Hub into a reality.Committee members are working towards construction of a purpose-built, multi-use community facility on the Omakau Recreation Reserve, for the benefit of the township and surrounding communities.Trust chair Andrew Paterson said progress was tracking well, including the signing of the trust deed, development of concept plans and pricing of the project now finalised. He is now keen to get more people involved who can help get the project over the line.“We do need more people that are willing to go out and do the footwork with approaching people for sponsorship,” he said.“The more people we can get involved, the better.”He said the last committee meeting was “a bit thin on the ground”, so welcomed anyone with an interest to get in touch.Central Otago District Council’s (CODC) property team provided an update on the hub project to the Vincent Community Board at its latest meeting, including how it was tracking and what steps it would take next.The next steps include further development of the hub’s design plans and installing a fundraising thermometer at the proposed site to keep the community informed on funding progress.A fundraising strategy would also be developed, along with plans to pursue fundraising initiatives. An updated design and the fundraising strategy will be presented to the community board for approval, and the trust will proceed with funding applications to external funders once all avenues of funding have been confirmed.Andrew said the cost and design was estimated at $5.2 million, with $1.7M already secured thanks to the CODC and the Bob Turnbull Trust, which had given a grant of $600,000.The Matakanui Combined Rugby Football Club has also pledged $80,000 to the project.Several fundraising events have also been held.“It means we are on track and onto the next phase of the Omakau Hub Project, and have a good gauge of the work ahead to make this fit for purpose facility a reality for the local community.”The floor plan of the proposed Omakau Community Hub. IMAGE: SuppliedHe said there were several fundraising activities planned with funding applications to be submitted to the Central Lakes Trust, Otago Community Trust and Lottery Grants Board.“There will be an opportunity for businesses, groups and individuals to contribute to the project. The trust is very appreciative of any financial support or in-kind/volunteer work that people may be able to help with along the way.”People can email the secretary on [email protected] if they are interested in supporting or joining the fundraising committee.For more information about the Omakau Community Hub Project go to: Agenda of Vincent Community Board - Tuesday, 17 October 2023 (infocouncil.biz)

Bislama Language Week will soon take centre stage in Central, an initiative being piloted for two years to boost Ni-Vanuatu culture in New Zealand.Organiser Joan Lloyd has been appointed by the Ministry for Pacific Peoples to lead the pilot in Central.She said she was looking forward to the week but Cyclone Lola had impacted some of the preparations for the Ni-Vanuatu (Ni-Van) community.The severe tropical cyclone hit Vanuatu in the early hours of October 25, a week earlier than the official start of cyclone season. “Some of the guys are not here in Central yet as they’ve stayed home longer to help.”A few cultural items planned to be used during the week are stuck in Vanuatu as they’ve been stored in buildings closed down and secured due to Lola’s impacts. “It will be great to have [the week] going in the long run, it will empower [RSE] to be themselves.”When asked what her language means to her she said it is “connection, love and identity”.“Language lights your world . . . hearing it sparks something in the guys and makes them feel more comfortable.”Bislama is the language of Vanuatu, where many of Central’s recognised seasonal employees (RSE) come from.From October through November there are about 390 Ni-Vans arriving in Central for the following seven months' of work in horticulture and viticulture.The week of celebrations begins on Sunday, November 12, at 2pm with an unveiling of the Cromwell Alpha St Reserve multicultural mural.Throughout the week there will also be speaking events, primary school visits, a screening of a movie from Vanuatu and a closing celebration featuring a Ni-Van string band at the Cromwell Presbyterian Church on Saturday, November 18 at 1pm. Joan has volunteered more hours than she can count to prepare for the week, including compiling displays to go into both Cromwell Museum and Central Stories Museum and Art Gallery. The exhibitions will feature artefacts from Vanuatu and digital images from a Ni-Van photographer on a video loop. A Vanuatuan movie “Tanna” will be screened at Central Cinema on Friday, November 17 at 7.30pm.The move Tanna will screen at Central Cinema. IMAGE: SuppliedJoan described it as a Vanuatuan version of Romeo and Juliet. It is the first film to be shot entirely on location in the village of Yakei on Vanuatu’s Tanna Island. The film won the Audience Award Pietro Barzisa at the 72nd Venice International Film Festival. It was selected as the Australian entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 89th Academy Awards (2017).Joan’s husband Trevor, who can also speak Bislama, has worked as a doctor for Volunteer Services Abroad (VSA) in Vanuatu and will be sharing his experience with staff at Dunstan Hospital on Wednesday, November 15. A teacher who has also visited and worked in Vanuatu, together with Joan will be sharing Ni-Van culture with primary school children in Alexandra, Cromwell and Roxburgh during the week. The Central App will bring you more on Bislama language next week, including some phrases to try. Lukim yu (see you later). Read more: Workers from cyclone-hit Vanuatu arrive in NZRead more: Alexandra-based Nivans raise $4K for Vanuatu

If working hard, building relationships in the community, and giving up weekends appeals to you then you might just have what it takes.There are around 16,000 licenced real estate agents or entities in New Zealand, a number that fluctuates depending on the volatility of the housing market. Some commit to the job as a full-time career, but the nature of the work means it suits those who are looking for part-time gigs too.Here’s what you need to know:Qualifications: In NZ, there are various qualifications you need depending on the level of licence you are aiming for. To start with, you can become a real estate salesperson with either a New Zealand Certificate in Real Estate (Salesperson) (Level 4), ora National Certificate in Real Estate (Salesperson) (Level 4).Recognised property degrees are also valid. As your career progresses, you can complete other qualifications along with work experience. It generally takes less than a year to become qualified to sell property.Character: You need to be 18 or older and a fit and proper person. The test of “fit and proper” character is important as you will have legal responsibilities, be involved in financial transactions, and need to be able to follow ethical and legal guidelines and codes of conduct. You cannot obtain a real estate licence if you have certain prior convictions, particularly around dishonesty.Income: The money you take home is typically a reflection of the work you put in, as with all sales jobs. All agencies are slightly different, but here at Tall Poppy sales consultants are the recipient of both the listing and selling share of the commission. Some agencies offer a retainer as well as commission, especially for new agents. Experienced agents typically work solely for commission.Responsibilities: A real estate salesperson will need to be able to build relationships with buyer and sellers, negotiate, be accurate with paperwork, advertise and market properties, manage open homes, and research and understand the property market. A people person with a good head for numbers and a good understanding of the sales process and negotiating will go far.Real estate sales is often about match making buyers and sellers and not a strong sales pitch.Working conditions: The hours can be irregular and long, with weekend and evening work required, but there is often flexibility. At Tall Poppy, for example, we don’t use traditional offices so you can work the way you want from where you want. Given the size of our region, a reliable vehicle is a must.Different agencies will offer potential agents different packages so it pays to ask around to find a workplace that suits you. If you are keen to explore reals estate as a career, I am happy to share my advice and experience; just get in touch.

Mountain Bikers of Alexandra (MOA) is keeping its lines of communication open with members, following news Matangi Station has been put on the market.The station is home to a mountain bike park, which MOA members are hoping will remain available in the future.MOA sent a e-newsletter to members on Saturday, October 28, outlining thoughts about the sale, their past involvement in the MTB park creation, and some possible scenarios around the recreation permit, which authorises mountain biking on the station.MOA president Andrew Dowling said he and the committee were working closely with the owners, the Sanders family, and were “in regular communication”.“The club is looking at all options to help to keep [Matangi Station MTB park] running for bikers, walkers and runners.“It is the hub of cycling here, for school kids, workers and the retired community. We really want to see it continue.”The property, marketed by PGG Wrightson Real Estate, was listed on their social media account in mid-October. That post has been liked more than 300 times, shared and commented on. The sale raises questions for Central Otago's mountain bikers and holders of Matangi Station MTB passes, particularly around the park's future.Matangi Station MTB park owners have been approached for comment, but could not be reached by deadline.MOA’s email said that the recreation permit issued by the Commissioner of Crown Lands (the commissioner) to Matangi Station MTB Ltd is for 15 years from December 1, 2020. There are three possible scenarios following a sale.Firstly, Matangi Station MTB could continue operating the permit, a new purchaser could take over operating the MTB park if they could obtain a new recreation permit from the commissioner, or the commissioner might agree to vary the permit, to transfer it to a new owner of the station.The third possible scenario is that the permit could be terminated by agreement between Matangi Station MTB Ltd and the commissioner.The email said MOA will try to connect with prospective buyers to establish a relationship with them and offer members’ ongoing support for maintaining the bike trails.“MOA has done everything possible to secure access for mountain biking and foot recreation. We have not taken for granted public access on Matangi Station.“The proposed sale raises the question of what will happen regarding the December 2023 annual renewal of the MTB Park membership, and events at the MTB Park planned for next year. Matangi Station MTB Limited will communicate directly with its members, as soon as possible, on these points.”Linger & Die Enduro is a grass roots MTB event held in September at Matangi Station. PHOTO: AuthenticAsQuestions still hang over the December 2023 annual renewal of subscriptions and 2024 MTB park events.The email added: “Brett and Helen Sanders are committed to the MTB park and want it to continue. They need to first clarify some points with the commissioner and will then inform the MTB park members of the situation for next year.“They appreciate that this is all unsettling and tight timewise. They will update the MTB park members as soon as possible.”Andrew said he envisaged nothing changing in the immediate future.“We will forge ahead as normal, regular maintenance [of trails] is going on, local laps are coming up.” The station sale has a deadline private treaty which closes on December 7. MOA maintains many of the trails in the region on a voluntary basis, including the Alexandra Airport, Boot Hill and Flat Top trails. Another project MOA has been assisting Central Otago District Council with is to develop a pump track in Alexandra. This is in the planning stage and should be up and running in about six months. MOA began back in 2000 with just a few members and since then membership has grown to 500, which is made up of family and individual members. Along with Crankworx Summer Series, and the Linger & Die MTB enduro and cross country event, The Prospector MTB stage race final day is usually held at Matangi Station.Alexandra is well known for its gnarly mountain biking terrain, and Matangi Station MTB Park offers 35 trails and challenging varied rocky single track, close to the township. Questions or feedback for MOA email: [email protected] more: Blistering pace and mint weather for Prospector.Read more: Bike park pumped to host huge events.Read more: Locals rocket to Crankworx podium.

Apricot growers across Central Otago are thrilled with how the season is looking, with early indications showing a bumper crop.Orchardist Simon Webb of Cromwell said he currently had 25 people frantically thinning out the fruit, with 12 different varieties of apricot grown for the local domestic market.Last season’s snow event in mid October wiped out much of his apricot crop, but this year it is quite a different story.“When you have a light crop one year, you know you’re going to have a heavy one the next.“Apricots are biennial and they have set up really well this year, with great pollination weather.”The orchard is already talking to the market to warn them about the abundance of fruit coming in, so they can be prepared, and the news is all good for consumers.“We have so much and there will be a drop in price.”As well as being a large crop, he is confident they will be good quality as well, “they seem to stay firmer and don’t all ripen at once.”Peaches and nectarines were also looking good and there were plenty of staff this season for picking, with numbers back up to what they used to be pre-Covid.The orchard employs a mixture of permanent staff, RSE workers, university students, retirees and backpackers coming through as well.Down in the Teviot Valley, grower Stephen Darling said a good fruit set had made for a positive start to the apricot season, but cooler days during October-November also pushed back the harvest time.“We’re looking forward to seeing some volumes of the new varieties coming through, but we have to get the fruit off the orchard first and then to market.”Being cautiously optimistic, he said the later harvest, which would start early in the New Year, made it easier to find staff after everyone had their holidays.The last time he’d seen a bumper crop of apricots like this was back in 2017 and 2018, but the season was also earlier.

An unconsented travellers' accommodation business in Cromwell that was served an abatement notice in June by the Central Otago District Council, now has 11 objections to its new application.Jun Hou and Lihua Zhang will face a hearing with an independent commissioner on November 21 in Cromwell, to determine whether they can continue the business, but consultant planner Oli Monthule-McIntosh has recommended the non-complying activity be declined.On April 24 the Central Otago District Council (CODC) received a complaint about the units at 43 Shortcut Rd being used for travellers’ accommodation without the necessary consent in place to do so. The matter was investigated by council’s monitoring and enforcement officers and a notice letter was sent to the operators, requesting that the travellers' accommodation activity cease and all accommodation listings for the activity be taken down by May 25.  The listings were not removed by the date directed and an abatement notice was subsequently issued.   The planner involved in the hearing, speaking on behalf of the client, told The Central App when contacted, that Jun Hou considered current activities on site permitted.  “A resource consent process for the travellers' accommodation is underway to address that specific matter.”In March 2018 they received land use consent on a non-notified basis to establish a 19-unit multi residential development on the corner of Shortcut Rd and State Highway 6. The consent was for five two-storied four bedroom apartments and one two-storied three bedroom apartments as manager’s accommodation, as well as 13 single-storied one bedroom apartments.Code of compliance for stage one was issued in September 2021, but a report to the hearing’s panel says that stage two and three haven’t been signed off yet.In 2022 consent was granted for a revised 22 unit multi-unit development, effectively changing the four bedroom units to two bedrooms.The property now contains nine completed residential units that have been subdivided by unit title. Those units comprise stage one of a three-stage multi-unit development.The couple propose to use eight of the units for travellers' accommodation, but face 11 objectors who say they’ve already experienced adverse effects of ‘anti-social’ noise and vehicles from the unconsented activity.Oli said, in his planners report to the hearings panel, that in his opinion the proposal is likely to have significant adverse effect on neighbourhood character, amenity and social cohesion, and that the proposal is inappropriate for the subject site. “The conversion of residential units into short-term travellers' accommodation results in a loss of that housing stock for the purpose of housing residents and workers. This loss exacerbates existing pressures on both the rental and purchase markets, particularly in areas like Cromwell where there is already a documented housing shortage.  “The impact is especially pronounced on the rental housing market, which is already in critically low supply in Central Otago. This scarcity disproportionately affects young people and lower-income workers, who are often more reliant on rental options.”

Pontoons will be back on Lake Dunstan around our popular swimming spots this summer after some of them had to be removed last season when they became water logged.Many families were disappointed in 2022 when a few weeks out from Christmas, the pontoon at Weatherall Creek filled up with water and became unsafe.The Central Otago District Council is responsible for all of the assets on the water and parks and recreational manager Gordon Bailey said they intend to have the Weatherall Creek and Lowburn pontoons back in the water by the end of November. “Both have had to be repaired and we hope they will remain watertight for the summer. The floating sections are made of plastic which is very hard to repair.” The CODC used to have its own local harbourmaster, but in September 2020 the Otago Regional Council took over the contract from its Dunedin base.The Queenstown Lakes District Council also has its own separate harbourmaster for the busier lakes, including Lake Wakatipu, Lake Wanaka, and Lake Hawea. Otago Regional Council harbourmaster Steve Rushbrook said the team of three based in Dunedin provide year round cover for Lake Dunstan, including the maintenance of navigation marks pre-season.They recently had to pull another pontoon out of the water at Northburn that had broken off from its mooring and became swamped.   Steve said it was important to get the right structures and in the right location for everyone’s safety.The ORC team also monitor Poolburn Dam, the Blue Lake and the Clutha River, and over the holiday period are out on the lake daily.With the recreational boating season in Aotearoa New Zealand getting underway, safety was a priority of people going out on the water. “With the holiday season fast approaching thousands of people are preparing to head to Otago’s coastal waters, harbours, lakes and rivers. "Whether you’re a keen paddle-boarder, kayaker, jet skier or boatie, take the time to do a thorough check of your vessel and all your gear before you head off.” he said. “Before going out, prep your boat, safety and communication equipment, check the weather conditions and know the rules. “For those new to boating, please stop, think, and find out about basic boating safety rules to protect you and your loved ones. Be safe, it’s about enjoying our amazing environment and coming home safe at the end of the day. If in doubt, don’t go out. “No matter if you’re on a power boat, jet ski or kayak, remembering the boating safety code is integral.”