Patearoa residents can drink from the tap again after Central Otago District Council (CODC) lifted a long-running boil water notice for the township yesterday (Monday December 15).The advisory, which had been in place as a precaution due to the lack of a protozoa barrier in the local supply, was removed following the successful commissioning of new treatment infrastructure.The lifting of the notice comes just weeks before a national regulatory deadline requiring surface water supplies to meet stricter standards by the end of December.CODC has advised residents to flush their systems to remove old water from pipes.Since early November council contractors have been onsite at the Aitkin Road treatment plant, installing new cartridge and ultraviolet (UV) filtration systems designed to remove the risk or protozoa contamination.CODC water services operations manager Andrew Watson said testing confirmed the new systems were performing as intended.“These upgrades provide a long-term level of protection for the Patearoa water supply,” Andrew said.“We appreciate the community’s ongoing support as we continue working to provide safe, reliable drinking water across our district.”The Patearoa project is part of a wider $4.2 million investment allocated across the council’s 2024 Annual Plan and 2025 Long Term Plan that covers upgrades for both Patearoa and Ranfurly, where similar water quality challenges exist.The decision to retrofit the existing plants was a fiscal one; Council earlier indicated building entirely new treatment facilities would have cost ratepayers significantly more - approximately $15M for Patearoa and $21M for Ranfurly.The upgrades were required in response to new quality assurance requirements for drinking water suppliers, which came into effect at the end of 2022.While the new technology significantly reduces the likelihood of future advisories, severe weather events or extremely high turbidity could still trigger occasional precautionary notices in the future.In September 2023, Queenstown experienced a cryptosporidium outbreak linked to its drinking water supply, which lacked a required protozoa barrier. CODC’s how-to guide for water users:Taps: Run all cold water taps for at least five minutesAppliances: Clean and flush coffee machines, ice makers, and water dispensersTanks: Ensure a full turnover of water in any header tanksFilters: Check and clean or replace household filters

SuperGrans across Central Otago are making an impact in people’s lives, but they could do with some more help.You don’t need to be a nana or a grandad to be involved, anyone of any age is welcome to be part of the SuperGrans SuperSkills group, operated under the umbrella of Central Otago REAP.Founder Ann Conder said people can give as much or as little time as they want to.The programme has grown significantly this year, becoming a key support partner for local agencies and a valued community hub.Based at Alexandra Community House, SuperGrans offers regular gatherings, workshops and in-home mentoring. Its focus is simple: sharing life skills while building stronger relationships between generations.A cornerstone of its work is the Wednesday Coffee Morning, designed to support young families. The sessions offer practical learning such as beginner sewing, knitting, baking ideas and simple recipes. Many parents return each week for companionship, connection and the chance to learn in a relaxed environment.Speakers have covered topics including budgeting, child development, first aid and car-seat safety. Seasonal workshops include everything from Christmas wrapping to microgreen planting.A successful pilot of Grans in Schools is also underway, pairing volunteers with students who benefit from regular contact with older adults. Three volunteers spend time each week in a classroom, supporting learning, listening to students and building positive relationships. Ann said teachers have reported the trial has added valuable one-on-one support, while students have enjoyed receiving guidance and hearing local stories.SuperGrans continue to widen its support for local families through in-home visits referred by Plunket, Dunstan Hospital, Anglican Family Care and Strengthening Families. Volunteers may share a practical skill, help with household tasks or simply support a parent who needs an extra pair of hands.A dedicated knitting group supplies the Maternity Unit with handmade blankets, singlets, booties and beanies, and is currently producing “Teddies for Trauma” for care packs. Toy Swap and Clothing Swap events have also become popular, giving families a cost-free way to refresh items while reducing waste.With continued growth, the programme is exploring new opportunities, including helping at school sports and supporting isolated older residents. Volunteers say the value is mutual: serving families also enriches their own wellbeing.

Central Otago locals love the long, sun-soaked season here, but rising temperatures are also bringing a higher risk of fast-moving fires across our dry landscape.Hotter summers and longer dry spells are becoming more common across the world, and Central Otago is right at the sharp end of those changes.With more days climbing over 25°C each year, places like the Clutha Valley, Lake Dunstan and the Manuherikia are expected to see some of the biggest increases in heat by the end of the century. That extra warmth might be great for stonefruit, but it also raises the fire danger for homes, lifestyle blocks, and farms. Reduced frost and snowfall in winter also affect water storage and crop resilience, compounding the risks for lifestyle blocks and farms.Dry vegetation, strong nor’westers and limited rainfall all create the perfect conditions for rural fires to take hold – and spread quickly. Understanding how your land, buildings and daily routines may add to that risk is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your home.Three ways to reduce your property’s fire risk this summer1. Know your land and the hazards around youFire and Emergency NZ notes that most rural fires start from preventable causes, so proactive property checks are one of the most reliable ways to protect your home, assets, and livelihood during the peak of summer.Fire risk starts small. Dry grass, leftover firewood piles, fallen branches, rubbish heaps and even a forgotten bottle or piece of broken glass acting like a magnifying glass can all help a fire ignite. Unsecured gas bottles, and flammable liquids are also risks to be aware of. Walk your property regularly and look for anything that could fuel a blaze.Embers can travel more than 2 kilometres, so it’s worth looking beyond just your immediate boundary. Highly flammable trees such as pine, cedar, fir, larch, spruce, eucalyptus, kānuka and mānuka shouldn’t be planted within 10 metres of your home. Keeping vegetation low, clearing debris, and maintaining firebreaks all help slow the spread of fire.2. Have a plan in case a fire breaks outA good plan gives your property a fighting chance.Having multiple hoses ready means you can tackle flames from different angles if a blaze begins. Storing water barrels or tanks around the property adds another layer of protection when pressure drops or access is tight.Make sure your home has a clear, well-maintained safety zone. Irrigated green grass acts as a natural fire break, and Fire and Emergency NZ recommends keeping that area free of anything that could ignite – from stacked firewood to outdoor clutter. If you’re building or renovating, consider fire-resistant materials where you can.If you use heavy machinery, always carry a fire extinguisher. Hot exhaust and dry grass are a dangerous mix, and a small spark can move fast in Central Otago conditions.A quick checklist to keep in mind:Stack firewood well away from the houseClear gutters, decks, and dead vegetationAvoid machinery use near dry grass on hot days3. Understand your cover and protect what mattersFire risk isn’t just a property issue – it’s an insurance one too.Your broker is there to help make sure your sum insured keeps pace with rising building costs so you’re not caught short. They also talk to insurers about the steps you’re already taking to reduce fire risk, which can make a real difference at renewal time.Affordability matters, and brokers work with you to keep your cover sustainable – from negotiating premiums to adjusting excesses or setting up instalment options. The goal is simple: protecting your home, your assets, and the lifestyle you’ve built here without having to compromise on essential cover.However hot this summer gets, taking a few practical steps now helps keep our community safer – and reminds us why Central Otago is a place we’re proud to call home.If you'd like any help, C & R Insurance are here for you. You can call us on 03 448 7139 or check out our website hereSponsored Content: This article has been submitted by a contributing local expert as part of The Central App’s sponsored advisor programme.

When it comes to selling your home in Central Otago, choosing the right real estate agent can feel like one of the biggest decisions in the process. With so much at stake financially, emotionally, and logistically, sellers often ask a key question: “Should I list with a large multinational real estate company, or work with a smaller boutique or one-person agency?”It’s a fair question, and one many homeowners consider well before they go to market. A lot of the worry comes down to one thing: who can actually get your property in front of the most serious buyers?Here’s a clear, local take.The reality of marketing reach todayNot long ago, big-name brands held a real advantage. They had the prime newspaper spots, the big window displays, and the community recognition that drew early attention.But things have changed.Most buyers now begin their search online — not by walking into an office and not by following a specific brand. The major platforms dominate the New Zealand property market:Trade Me Propertyrealestate.co.nzOneRoofSocial media marketing on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTokGoogle searches for properties in local towns and price rangesWhether you choose a large franchise or a boutique agency, they’re all using the same key online channels. That means reach comes less from the brand logo and more from how your individual campaign is built.Strong marketing today relies on:a high-quality marketing packagestrong property presentationtargeted digital advertisingan agent who actively follows up and engages with every enquiryWhat independents offer vs bigger companiesIndependent or owner-operated agencies can bring some genuine advantages:lower overheads can mean more flexible commission optionspersonalised service directly from the business ownerquick decision making and tailored marketingmore focused attention on your listingPlenty of top-performing agents across New Zealand operate independently. Success usually comes down to experience and strategy rather than scale.So which is best for you?Instead of comparing the size of the company, try asking these practical questions:How strong is the agent’s recent performance in my area?What marketing package do they recommend, and what’s the reasoning?How well do they communicate and negotiate?Can they clearly explain where potential buyers for my home are likely to come from?At the end of the day, sellers choose people — not brands. The right agent should give you confidence, communicate honestly, and shape a marketing plan that reaches the right buyers across Central Otago and beyond.A final wordWhether you go with a global franchise or a small boutique, the most important factor is the same: choose the agent who shows real skill, clear strategy, and genuine commitment to securing the best possible result. Marketing reach isn’t determined by the size of the company, but by the expertise behind your campaign.Sponsored Content: This article has been submitted by a contributing local expert as part of The Central App’s sponsored advisor programme.

Police Search and Rescue have recovered the bodies of two people from the Fiordland National Park.Police were notified at around 7:40pm on Saturday 13 December that the pair were missing, when another climbing party activated a beacon after the pair failed to return from their intended route.One of the pair was located deceased but access was difficult due to the deteriorating weather on Saturday evening.On Sunday, Police and Wakatipu Aline Cliff Rescue specialists returned to the scene and located the second person, also deceased.Both bodies were extracted in what was a difficult and technical rescue.The north buttress of Sabre Peak, where the bodies were located, is a 500-metre-long route and is on the bucket list of many climbers.One of the deceased was an Australian citizen, the second person was a dual citizen of New Zealand and Canada, residing in Australia.Sergeant Alun Griffiths wished to thank the Wakatipu Alpine Cliff Rrescue team, RCCNZ, Heliworks and Southern Lakes Helicopters in what was a complex and challenging recovery."This is a result nobody wanted, and our thoughts are with their families.“Police are in contact with the families and are offering the necessary support.”The formal identification process is underway, and the deaths have been referred to the Coroner.

Sixteen people - including a gunman - have been killed after a father and son opened fire at a Jewish holiday celebration at Sydney's Bondi Beach.Follow the latest updates in the RNZ liveblog Australian officials described it as a targeted, anti-semitic terror attack.Authorities said far more people would have been killed were it not for a bystander, identified by local media as fruit shop owner Ahmed al-Ahmed, 43, who was filmed charging a gunman from behind, grappling with him and wresting a rifle from his hands.

Resource consents have been granted to allow Clyde Dam operator Contact Energy to take the next steps in a plan to reshape the lakefront alongside Cromwell’s heritage precinct.Contact’s head of hydro generation Boyd Brinsdon confirmed resource approval had been received for native planting, a 320-metre boardwalk, an upgraded jetty and a flat-grassed area near the jetty.“Final designs will be shared early next year, with construction starting in the middle of 2026,” he said.“Building is expected to take about four months, with landscaping to follow.”Boyd described the work as a means of “revitalising the Kawarau Arm waterfront at Lake Dunstan”. “This follows valuable community input two years ago, to shape and prioritise the design,” he said.The project is Contact Energy’s response to long-standing issues caused by heavy silt accumulation in this section of the lake. In recent years, beaches and boat ramps have become increasingly unusable as sediment carried down the Kawarau River - estimated by Contact Energy at approximately 1M cubic metres annually - has built up along the lake edge. The new design plan signals a shift away from ongoing silt removal to supporting the lake edge’s gradual transition. As part of the work, the jetty will be rebuilt, widened to three metres and extended to reach deeper water.“The jetty extension length is to be confirmed but will extend approximately five metres further than the current one,” Boyd said.The flat, grassy area adjacent to the jetty will also be extended - 870 square metres in one section and 510 square metres in another - beyond the existing stone wall, reclaiming part of the lake.Cultural elements, plantings, and a nohoaka area are being developed in partnership with mana whenua-owned consultants Aukaha and Hokonui Rūnanga.Nohoaka - literally meaning a "place to sit" - traditionally refer to seasonal camps used by Māori for gathering resources such as fish, birds, and plants.A trial planting area is set to be established at the southern end of the project site, near the Butchers Drive boat ramp, to test which species can tolerate the fluctuating water levels typical of the hydro lake.Raupō (bullrush), harakeke (flax) and carex secta (swamp sedge) will be planted.Meanwhile, the community trust responsible for stewardships of Lake Duntan has raised concerns about driftwood accumulation in the same area following recent heavy rain events.Lake Dustan Charitable Trust chair Duncan Faulkner said there had been a significant build up of driftwood and Contact’s consent conditions to operate the dam at Clyde require the debris to be removed.“The trust’s expectations are that it would be removed before peak tourism season.”

Otago Regional Council (ORC) is investigating a wastewater overflow near the Lake Dunstan Cycle Trail, as Central Otago District Council (CODC) admits some public warning signs erected at the site last week were put up "overenthusiastically".ORC compliance manager Simon Wilson confirmed CODC reported the incident to the regional council’s pollution hotline on Monday (December 8) morning.“As the matter is subject to a current investigation, we are not able to provide further comment at this time,” he told The Central App.A spokesperson for CODC’s water services team said a split in the wastewater main between Lowburn and Cromwell that resulted in “wastewater liquids” breaching the line.The leak is believed to have started on the evening of Sunday (December 7), and was reported by a member of the public to a council contractor, who attended the site shortly afterwards.“It is currently undetermined how the pipe failed, however, the pipe will be sent away for testing to assist in determining condition and the potential cause of the pipe failure,” the spokesperson said.The total volume of wastewater released is not yet known. CODC said its contractor is preparing a report, which will include an estimated volume and be shared with ORC before being made public.CODC also addressed confusion around warning signage erected last week near the cycle trail and lake, a few hundred metres from the Kiwi Water Park, which temporarily prohibited swimming and contact with the land.The spokesperson said some signs were unnecessary as there was “not believed to be a risk to public health”."Unrequired precautionary measures were taken by erecting both 'No swimming' and 'Do not enter' signage in the vicinity of the area. This was admittedly done overenthusiastically, but with good intent," they said.Because the signage was already being discussed on social media, the council chose to retain a small number of 'Do not enter' signs, relocating them to a contained area measuring 15 metres by 15 metres. The spokesperson said this approach was taken for "transparency", as removing all signs quickly may have raised further community concerns.The affected site is well away from the track and there is no cause for concern for people using the track, they said.“There is potential residual contamination on the land, however the discharge was liquid only and the area has had a thorough cleanup from our contractors,” the spokesperson said.“Bunding was formed and a ditch was dug in the discharge flow stream to prevent the liquid from getting to the lake. Hydro excavation trucks were used to remove the liquid and spoil from the site.“Contractors confirmed that the discharge did not reach the lake. Precautionary sampling was undertaken, including samples near the water park to ensure public safety. All results confirmed no contamination.”

Upcycles Charitable Trust is marking a milestone year, gaining national recognition, ongoing funding and delivering its largest-ever impact for local riders and families.Its new home ‘The BikeHive’ on the old Wastebusters site, was secured by a ‘right to occupy’ agreement with the Central Otago District Council earlier this year.Continuing its mission to close the gap between Central Otago’s cycle tourism success and the barriers many locals face in owning or riding a bike, has been the goal of the trust from day one.Founder Chris Foggin established Upcycles to support people who experience financial or health challenges and need help accessing bikes, skills or confidence.The trust’s flagship programme, COBA – Community Of Bike Ambassadors – was named a finalist for the second year running in the national Recreation Aotearoa Awards. Soon after, Upcycles secured a major five-year philanthropic funding commitment through the Gift Trust, providing long-term stability and supporting COBA’s expansion.Peak Safety Ltd outdoor first aid training for the 2025 cohort of COBA - Community Of Bike Ambassadors, from Clyde School and The Terrace School, AlexandraThe COBA programme has grown rapidly across schools and community groups. Chris said this year, 60 adults and 100 young people completed training, with the youth programme now active in six schools. COBA also delivered specialised sessions for Cycling Without Age volunteers, who assist older or less mobile residents on e-trishaws.Bike gifting remains at the heart of the trust’s work. Upcyles has now given 162 refurbished bikes to young people and adults, including adapted bikes for neuro-diverse riders and those with disabilities. Around 60 donated bikes were restored in 2025, and the trust continued purchasing ex-rental bikes to pass on to families needing support.Strengthening safety and wellbeing partnerships has been another major step. Upcycles was the first organisation in the region to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Clyde Coastguard in relation to non-urgent assists on waterside trails.For those wanting to learn how to fix their bikes, Upcycles supports Central Otago REAP’s Repair Cafes, where volunteers teach essential skills.Businesses also support Upcycles, including the AA Southern Lakes Council providing 300 bike light sets and Rothbury Insurance Brokers funding insurance costs and COBA uniforms.Chris said its success reflects thousands of volunteer hours and growing collaboration with schools, agencies and local groups. He plans to continue expanding its up-cycling, up-skilling and community support initiatives in 2026.

Keeping all up-to-date with current listing - all you need to do is to click here Tall Poppy Real Estate

This dish is budget-friendly, flavour-packed, and absolutely guaranteed to get saved for Christmas Day.Bake it on the lowest rack of the oven for a crispy bottom.Add chilli flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick.Get creative with pastry shapes — vines, flowers, letters, whatever fits the vibe.Ingredients1 large onion, sliced1 Tbsp margarine2–3 cloves garlic, crushed500g beef or pork mince1 Tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped1 Tbsp fresh thyme leaves1 tsp dried mixed herbs (optional boost)½ tsp onion powder½ tsp garlic powder1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauceSalt and pepper½ cup breadcrumbs1 egg2 sheets puff pastry, thawed (you'll use the offcuts for decorating)1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)1 Tbsp sesame seeds/poppy seeds (optional)Freshly cracked black pepper½ cup cranberry sauce (you’ll probably only use ~⅓ cup)1 Tbsp Dijon mustard1 Tbsp brown sugar1 tsp apple cider vinegar1–2 tbsp water, if needed to loosenFresh rosemary sprigs, to decorateFlaky saltInstructionsCaramelise the onion: Melt margarine in a pan, add sliced onion and cook low and slow for 10–12 minutes until soft, golden and jammy. Add garlic in the last minute. Let cool slightly.Make the filling: Mix mince, caramelised onion, rosemary, thyme, mixed herbs, onion powder, garlic powder, Worcestershire, breadcrumbs, egg, salt and pepper until just combined.Build the wreath: Lay pastry sheets overlapping to form one big rectangle, press seam to seal. Spoon the filling down one long edge, then roll tightly to enclose. Shape into a wreath and transfer to a lined tray.Brush the pastry with egg wash. Sprinkle over sesame seeds (if using) and cracked pepper.Use pastry offcuts to cut stars, vines, flowers or letters. Brush with egg wash and place on a separate tray.Bake both trays at 200°C for 25–30 mins, until deeply golden and crisp.Heat cranberry sauce, Dijon, brown sugar and vinegar until glossy. Loosen with a splash of water if needed. (You’ll probably only use half the glaze.)Brush the roll generously with glaze while warm so it melts into the pastry seams.Add pastry stars or decorations.Nestle fresh rosemary sprigs around the wreath.Finish with flaky salt.

Three companies have been ordered to pay more than half-a-million dollars combined for their role in a landslip that swamped a Queenstown street, forcing dozens to evacuate.Skyline Enterprises, Naylor Love Central Otago Limited and Wilsons Contractors Limited pleaded guilty to charges, brought by the Queenstown-Lakes District Council (QLDC) for alleged breaches of the Resource Management Act (RMA).The companies were sentenced during a lengthy hearing in the Christchurch District Court on Friday.The resort town was hammered by torrential rain on 22 September 2023, with a landslip spilling down and inundating Reavers Lane below Bob's Peak.Forty-one people had to be evacuated from their homes on the night, and later 10 homes were red-stickered and two yellow-stickered.The breaches centred around the management, placement and size of a stockpile during earthworks, commissioned by Skyline, at Bob's Peak, the court heard.Lawyer for the QLDC David Collins said it was the "most serious RMA case the council had ever prosecuted".Judge John Hasson said the offending was driven by "commercial imperatives" as contractors - in the months prior to the weather event - scrambled to finish planned works on time.Naylor Love, who sub-contracted Wilsons to stockpile excavated spoil, was seen as the biggest culprit of the three defendants "by quite some margin".The stockpile was also outside Skyline's leased area within the reserve, the court heard."Naylor Love did not put in place any sediment and erosion controls for the ... obvious risk of spoil or sediment escaping and heading downhill," Hasson said."Hence, in addition to being outside the consented area and Skyline's lease area, it was also in breach of a number of the other conditions of Skyline's resource consents."In his sentencing remarks, Hasson said all three companies had demonstrated highly careless behaviour."No doubt each of the defendants will reflect that, in a situation of engineering difficulty, they chose commercial expediency over the safety and other interests of the Queenstown community. That is appalling," he said."Different, albeit very costly and inconvenient choices could and should have been made. That demands a sentencing outcome that denounces and deters."Cars buried by slip debris in Reavers Lane, Queenstown Photo: RNZ / Angus DreaverA victim impact statement by long-time Reamers Lane resident, Sonja Beattie, was read out to the court."The night of the 22nd of September 2023, without any warning or alerts, a huge landslip came down, wiping out the house above, covering their car and inundating Reamers Lane. The waters flowed onto my property and flowed into my garage, taking out some curb and drenching all my winter wood stored under the garage," she said.A friend who was staying with her at the time returned to Te Anau out of fear of further landslides, the court heard.Beattie said she felt her property had been devalued."Now, whenever there is heavy rain, I have concerns that this is going to happen again. I had no warning about this event last time, and my friends even ask now if my house is safe to stay in."Skyline Enterprises was fined $130,000, Naylor Love $154,000 and Wilson $61,600.As part of an enforcement order, further costs of over $200,000 incurred by the QLDC were to be covered by all three companies (Skyline $78,300, Naylor Love $88,400 and Wilsons $34,000).Emotional reparation payments totalling $12,000 were also to be paid to Beattie by the companies.

The Central App’s new marketing and operations executive Alyssa Serignese has an interesting life, living off-grid with her partner in Roxburgh East, and a growing animal sanctuary.Moving halfway around the world - originally from Colorado, she and Antony opened Alexandra Tattoo Co three years ago and also found their perfect piece of land - a 6ha block for their alternative lifestyle.Having moved from the States six years ago to Queenstown, the couple were looking for a slower pace of life, but knew they wanted to stay in the area."We were just looking for properties and so expanded our search and stumbled across Central Otago," she said.Their piece of paradise includes 12 permanent ‘residents,’ including their beloved Australian shepherd/border collie Poncho, along with five sheep, two alpacas, two cats and two chickens.George the Alpaca who lives with Alyssa and Antony. Photo supplied.The animal sanctuary will eventually become a charitable trust to allow them to include rehabilitation and adoption services, as well as education.The couple love the Teviot Valley and say the locals have been good to them."It's been really nice to just be able to go and chat to the locals and get their input and advice.”Meanwhile back in Alexandra, their tattoo and piercing business has seen steady growth, now employing another artist to keep up with demand.Alyssa starts fulltime with the Central App in the New Year, and has worked in marketing for over 10 years.“I’m looking forward to using my skills to see the impact they have on local small businesses and to help the community grow.”The winning Alexandra United Football Club sevens team. suppliedOutside of work and taking care of animals, Alyssa coaches and plays for the Alexandra United Football Club Women (AUFCW).In June 2025 she was part of the first ever Central Otago Women’s League, involving teams from Alexandra, Cromwell, Wanaka and Queenstown.Later in the season they won the Alexandra Sevens aside tournament for the second consecutive year.The team is always welcoming new players, emphasising that age and skill doesn't matter.Life is certainly busy for Alyssa and Antony, and they are looking forward to settling more into the Central Otago community and enjoying the region."I've had to do a bit more planning than usual, just because I’m wanting to take in the animals and having our own property now, but definitely just enjoying Roxburgh... and just really making Central home,” she said.

The independent panel assessing the massive Bendigo-Ophir gold mine has signalled its decision will likely take longer than the standard timeframe the fast-track law allows.Panel head Jane Borthwick put out a formal request (called a Minute) on Tuesday (December 9), asking the mine’s developer, Matakanui Gold Limited, a subsidiary of Santana Minerals, if it wouldagree to an extension.The mine is going through the government’s special fast-track consenting process for its planned open cast and underground mine in the hills above Cromwell.Jane said the decision process needs more time because the proposal is large and complex. Under the recently updated fast-track rules, the expert panel must make a decision within a maximum of 90 working days unless the applicant - in this case Matakanui Gold - agrees to a longertimeframe. However, Jane said her initial assessment suggests more time may be needed. "Based on the information before me, the scale, nature, and complexity of the application suggest that a timeframe exceeding 90 working days may be warranted," she said in the Minute. She suggested a timeframe of 110 to 120 working days, citing the sheer volume of the application, which includes 10 approvals sought, 22 proposed management plans and 10 sets of conditions.A 90-day decision would be due on July 28, if the panel begins its work at the start of February as planned, while a 120-day timeframe would push the final decision out to September 8. Jane said she will be "seeking views on this matter before forming a concluded view". Matakanui Gold Limited was directed to respond to the request by Friday (December 12), and at the time of publication no response had been uploaded to the government’s fast-track projects website. The request to extend the timeframe received approval from local protest group Sustainable Tarras."Against the background of Santana executives trying to speed up the process, reduce community involvement and minimise environmental protections, plus [Regional Development Minister] ShaneJones placing pressure on all involved to speed up and 'dig baby dig', this is welcome news," the group wrote on Facebook.  "The decision to proceed with this mine will have intergenerational and irreversible impacts. The panel needs sufficient time and space to consider all aspects of the application, and to make aconsidered decision." The Bendigo-Ophir mine, if approved, would be the largest new gold development in New Zealand in more than a generation. The company’s application, lodged at the start of November, includes nearly 9,400 pages of documents and 135 technical reports.Santana Minerals chief executive Damian Spring has said the milestone reflected “years of serious technical work and deep environmental assessment by New Zealand experts”.  The company anticipates the mine would produce up to 120,000 ounces of gold a year over a 14-year life, generating $5.8b in GDP and hundreds of jobs.Read more: Sustainable Tarras: fast-track process stacked in favour of miners and Santana lodges fast-track bid for Bendigo gold project 

Construction on the cycle trail linking Cromwell and Queenstown is advancing, with an opening date now scheduled for early 2026.Southern Lakes Trails announced the Kawarau Gorge Trail is expected to open towards the end of the summer season, around the end of the first quarter.Alongside the timeline update, the trust outlined specific risks associated with the route.Officials stated the trail is a backcountry experience in complex terrain and will not be a “simple walk in the park".Users will need to be prepared for a remote environment with few exit points. The trust said once on the trail, the only options will be to return the way users came, continue forward, or be evacuated by helicopter in emergencies.Three new suspension bridges - spanning 108 metres, 82 metres, and 70 metres - will be constructed early next year, with the sequencing designed to discourage public access into partially completed sections.Southern Lakes Trails chair Aaron Halstead outlined the engineering achievements in the gorge to date to provide future access for recreational users."The team is continually amazed by the innovation and dedication of the crew, who are meeting challenges head on by building bridges across a major river without easy access, helicoptering diggers into location, building bluff bridges capable of carrying machinery and creating a trail around one of the gnarliest highway bluffs in the region," Aaron said.He said the team is constructing stacked stone abutments and shaping the trail to sit naturally within the terrain.Aaron said they were "following the path of the early settlers, preserving and enhancing the ecology and working with the terrain to build a trail that will last for generations".Early modelling suggests the trail could exceed the rider numbers of the Lake Dunstan Trail, which attracted 80,000 riders in its first year.Southern Lakes Trails chief executive Janeen Wood described the project as a generational investment."The team can't wait to deliver this world class trail to locals, visitors and the wider biking community,” Janeen said.“The Kawarau Gorge Trail is a giant leap towards a unified regional trail network.”To support the long-term stewardship of the asset, the trust is expanding its "Track Pack" supporter programme to help fund maintenance.Janeen said that "for everyday trail users - riders, runners and walkers - this is their chance to pay it forward".

The Central Otago District Council has begun shaping its next Long Term Plan, launching a three-year process that will guide how the district grows from 2027 to 2037.Workshops with elected members are now underway, with the Teviot Community Board the first to begin discussions, on Thursday this week.Chief financial officer Paul Morris led the session, asking members to think ahead about how they want their communities to develop over the next decade, and what ideas could help get them there.A large part of the workshop focused on ‘Rates 101.’ Paul highlighted the complexity of rating, noting that the council deals with over 15,000 properties, each subject to a "multitude of different outcomes".The council’s average rates increase for 2026 is set at 7.5%, and he addressed the Government’s proposed 4% rates cap, which he explained is not yet law but could influence future planning.The LTP (2027-2037) process includes several major milestones before the final document is adopted in June 2027.A full rates review is scheduled for June 2026, followed by community consultation. Budgets for the 2027–2037 period are due in August 2026, but the final audit and sign-off of the LTP won’t happen until mid-2027.The next workshop will be held with the Vincent Community Board on Monday at 3pm and will be live-streamed. More workshops for all elected members will take place at the first council meeting of the New Year.The council said these early workshops are designed to start long-term thinking before wider public engagement begins next year. Community input will form a significant part of the drafting process as the district plans for future growth, infrastructure, services and investment.The LTP will set the direction for the next decade, balancing financial pressures, legislative changes and the needs of Central Otago’s communities.

Some simple, evidence-based strategies will help you navigate the Christmas party season without relying on will power alone.December is a perfect storm for anyone trying to cut back on drinking. Between end-of-year deadlines, work parties, family gatherings and school events, alcohol is suddenly everywhere.It can make drinking feel not just normal, but expected.“We must have a drink before the end of the year!”If your aim is to cut back, try alternating each alcoholic drink with something non-alcoholic.But if you want to drink less (or not at all) this silly season, you don’t have to rely on willpower alone. Having a plan can help.Some evidence suggests when goals are focused on how you’ll approach something – such as a not-drinking strategy – rather than what you’ll avoid (alcohol), it’s easier to follow through.So here are some simple strategies, backed by evidence.1. Make a planWhen making decisions, our brains tend to prioritise immediate goals over long-term ones. Scientists call this “present bias”. This means it’s harder to keep your long-term goal (cutting back on alcohol) in mind when confronted by the chance for immediate gratification (having a drink).But if you plan when you will and won’t drink in advance, you reduce the need to make this decision in real time – when alcohol is in front of you and your willpower may be lower and you’re more driven by emotion.Look ahead at your calendar and choose your drinking and non-drinking days deliberately. Committing to the plan ahead of time reduces the chances of opportunistic drinking when social pressure is high.2. Track your drinksTracking when and how much you drink is one of the most effective and well-supported strategies for reducing alcohol use and staying motivated.You may be surprised how much tracking alone can change your drinking, simply by being more mindful and helping you understand your patterns.It doesn’t matter how you do it – in an app, a notebook or even on your phone calendar. Writing it down is better than trying to remember. And doing it consistently works best. Aim to record drinks in real time if you can.There are lots of free, evidence based apps, such Drink Tracker, that can help you track your drinking and drink-free days.3. Try zero alcohol drinksFor many people, the rise of alcohol-free beer, wine and spirits has made it much easier to enjoy the ritual of drinking at social events, without the intoxication.But they’re not for everyone – particularly those who find the look, smell and taste of alcohol triggering. Know yourself, see what works, and don’t force it if it’s not helping reach your goals.4. Slow the paceIf your aim is to cut back, try alternating each alcoholic drink with something non-alcoholic.Water is best, but zero, low or non-alcoholic drinks can still reduce how much you drink overall – and as a bonus they can also help you stay hydrated, which may reduce the chance of a hangover.Eating something healthy and filling before and during drinking is also a good idea. It prevents rapid spikes in blood alcohol levels, as well as slowing the absorption of alcohol into your system. This means your body has a better chance of metabolising the alcohol.Eating well can also help calm the cravings for sugary, fried and salty foods that are often triggered by alcohol.5. Beware of an all-or-nothing approachDon’t fall into the “goal violation” trap (sometimes called the abstinence violation effect). That’s the when slipping up makes you abandon your plan altogether.Maybe someone talks you into “just a splash” – or one drink somehow becomes five – and you tell yourself: “Oh well, I’ve blown it now.”But a slip is just a slip – it doesn’t mean you have to give up on your goals. You can reset straight away, at the next drink or the next day.6. Set up accountabilityLetting a friend or partner know that you are trying to drink less helps you stay accountable and provides support – even better if they join you.7. Have responses readyPeople may notice you’re not drinking or are drinking less. They may offer you a drink. Try a simple “I’m good” or “I’m pacing myself tonight”. Work out what feels OK to you – you don’t need to give long explanations.8. Be kind to yourselfWhen you’re making a big change, it won’t always go smoothly. What matters is how you respond if you slip up. Shame and guilt often lead to more drinking, while self-compassion supports longer-term behaviour change.Instead of seeing a slip as failure, treat it as information: What made it hard to stick to your goals? What could help next time?December doesn’t have to derail your goalsChange comes from consistent small steps, even during the busiest month of the year. Focus on developing a relationship with alcohol that you are in control of, not the other way around.

Central Otago District Council (CODC) has awarded a contract for vital maintenance work at the Ranfurly Wastewater Treatment Plant, with desludging of the oxidation pond and wetlands set to begin this month. Glasgow Contractors will carry out the work, which is expected to run from December through to June. In a statement, the council said the project involves removing a “significant” build-up of sludge identified during a recent survey.  The council said the work is essential to restore the pond’s capacity, improve treatment performance and support the long-term operation of the wastewater system. “It’s not just about clearing material; it's about restoring the plant's capacity and efficiency,” CODC capital projects programme manager Patrick Keenan said.  “By removing the sludge, we ensure the oxidation pond can perform its role optimally, securing the long-term effectiveness of the Ranfurly wastewater treatment system for the community.” Sludge removal increases the volume of water the pond can hold, extending retention time and improving biological treatment processes within the system. Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected] The Ranfurly desludging is part of the council’s wider programme to bring its wastewater treatment plants into compliance following abatement notices issued after a 2023 audit by Otago RegionalCouncil. Since that audit, abatement notices have been lifted for Alexandra, Cromwell and Naseby. Notices remain in place at Ranfurly and Roxburgh, although council has previously reported encouraging compliance results at Roxburgh following earlier desludging and aeration upgrades. On its website, Auckland-based Glasgow Contractors says it has experience in dredging and desludging oxidation wastewater treatment ponds across the country.Read more: Sludge-busting works set to start in Ranfurly

Public health warning signs near a busy stretch of the Lake Dunstan Trail have been removed after three days of clear water quality results, the Central Otago District Council (CODC) has confirmed. The signs had advised people and animals to avoid the area only a few hundred metres from the Kiwi Water Park. It is understood they were installed earlier in the week after a wastewater overflow was reported. In a notice issued at 5pm on Thursday (December 11), CODC said the overflow near Luggate-Cromwell Road (State Highway 6) between Cromwell and Lowburn had been repaired by contractors. Precautionary water sampling over the past three days showed no contamination, and the wastewater was contained on land and did not reach Lake Dunstan, the council said. “‘No swimming’ signs were temporarily erected as a precaution and have been removed today [Thursday]...following clear sampling results,” the statement said.  Cones and signage were used to warn the public to keep off the affected area.Some details about the timing and cause of the incident remain unclear. People are advised not to swim in the lake adjacent to the overflow site, Thursday, December 11. Image: The Central AppA worker from Trility, CODC’s three waters contractor, was onsite when The Central App visited on Thursday afternoon.  He said the incident involved the main wastewater line that services Lowburn and Pisa Moorings.He said the council became aware of the issue on Sunday. CODC’s public notice refers only to a “wastewater overflow” and did not specify when the initial failure occurred. A spokesperson from the Kiwi Water Park said the park had been notified earlier in the week.They said CODC tested the park’s water on the day the signs were installed. “We got a call yesterday that it came back perfect,” the spokesperson said.  The Central App has requested further information from CODC about the cause of the overflow, the volume of wastewater released and when the incident was first officially reported. Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]