Cromwell College pupil Mischa Thomlinson (14) said when she’s writing music on Garageband she gets in the zone.The singer-songwriter has just found out one of her songs is going to debut on New Zealand’s beloved television drama Shortland Street within the next month.The song ‘Pixie Dust’ is available on both Apple Music and Spotify. It is the first original song Mischa has produced in a studio. She won the chance to record it, and it was included in an album as she won a national song writing competition ‘Play it Strange’ for pupils in year nine to 11. Mischa said she put it forward for the TV show and genuinely did not believe it when she got notice it had been selected.“I said to mum, is this real or not?”Mischa said her main goal in life is to be a part of the music industry.“I want people to know my name, and to be able to share my thoughts and my music with them.”She has had another single recorded ‘Somehow’, also through another Play it Strange competition in 2024. Mischa said she is so grateful for the support of her family for helping to find her opportunities, along with her music teacher Catherine Forsyth.“Miss F introduced me to Play it Strange, so I have her to thank for it all.”Smokefree Rockquest is on the agenda this June for the musician. She is part of the school band The Maestros and entered as a soloist too. This means two original songs to craft for the band’s entry and a new song to polish for her solo entry. She said having fun for her was playing around on music making apps such as garageband. “In my zone, the songwriting just comes out.”Read more: Cromwell College musos amped for YAMI summitHave a story to share?Contact [email protected] 

Enthusiastic olive growers in Central Otago have marked Saturday May 17 as the date when their careful pruning, watering, fertilising and harvesting will seem worthwhile.Approximately 30 growers, who have anywhere between five and 50 trees on their properties, will bring up to 300 kilograms of freshly picked olives to a Community Press Day.Growers will see the olive press in action and be rewarded with low-cost 250ml bottles of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) proportional to the weight of their olives that go through the press.“The day has become really popular among the numerous lifestyle property owners across the district who would otherwise have an olive crop which is uneconomic to process,” Central Otao Olive Growers (COOG) chair Michael Hope said.“With the price of high-quality extra virgin olive oil reaching up to $100 a litre because of the worldwide shortage of the crop, these hobby growers love the opportunity to get some locally grown product in their kitchen, the fruit for some of which may have come from their own back yard.”Central Otago’s hot, arid summers and dry winters combined with a plentiful water supply from the Clutha/Mata-Au River means olive growers can bring more than 30 kilograms to the community press, Michael said.On the day they’ll be able to watch the olive pressing as hosts Steve and Olivia Morris of Olive Press Central Otago supervise the crushing of the harvested olives. After that the olives will sit while the oils and natural juices seep out, a process called “malaxation.” The oil will then be separated and filtered before bottling and distributed to COOG members or sold to the public through local markets.All Central Otago olive growers are welcome on the day whether or not they are COOG members.Michael encouraged growers to join COOG and “become part of a sociable passionate and supportive group with one thing in common – olives”.The Community Press Day will take place on Saturday May 17, from 10.30am to 2pm, at 125 Smiths Way, Pisa, Cromwell. Registrations can be made to COOG ([email protected]). The cost for the day is $20 for COOG members or $40 for non-members.

[bThe final hours of the Treaty Principles Bill were as divided as its short life was. But some have said the bill - introduced to Parliament by the ACT Party with the aim of re-defining the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi - was damaging to the nation and Te Pāti Māori say it should never have got off the ranks.MPs engaged in fiery debates in the House on Thursday, at the bill's second reading. The Speaker Gerry Brownlee ordered Labour MP Willie Jackson to leave the House for not withdrawing and apologising for a reference to David Seymour and the word "liar", and Brownlee ordered the police to respond when a protester in the gallery interrupted ACT leader David Seymour's speech.The vote: 112 noes to 11 ayes. Every party bar ACT voted against it, dealing the death blow, at which a waiata rang out through the House- Tūtira Mai Ngā Iwi, which Brownlee confirmed had been granted permission.Te Pāti Māori leaders relieved, disappointedTe Pāti Māori co-leader Rawiri Waititi celebrated the end of the Treaty Principles Bill."The rhetoric that has come out during the presentation of this bill to the House has been absolutely appalling. It has divided the nation, but it has strengthened a movement. And what we do want to acknowledge is 307,000 odd people submitted," Waititi said."Over a billion people viewed the hīkoi ... I just want to just reiterate the mihi to our people, tangata whenua, Tangata tiriti, Tangata Moana, for the resistance to such a divisive ... bill that didn't serve anything to the development and the continued development of our relationship here in Aotearoa."The Treaty Principles Bill : Here's what was in it42,000 join as Treaty Principles Bill hīkoi reaches ParliamentLast week, Parliament agreed all of the record-breaking number of submissions on the bill - more than 300,000 - would be added to the public record, despite earlier plans to exclude some. Another 16,000 people had requested to read oral submissions.Parliament's Justice Select Committee last week said 90 percent of the submissions were against the bill with just 8 percent for it - and recommended that Parliament scrap it.Debbie Ngarewa-Packer explained the party's more harmonious approach to the second reading, compared to the haka of the first."There was a lot of expectations for us to do what we did in the first reading. This was first of all different, it was a celebration - the first reading was deeply painful and traumatic, Ngarewa-Packer said."We also have been in negotiations with the Speaker over the last couple of days to get an agreement to get an extension to make sure the gallery wasn't locked, to make sure that our mana whenua and our supporters of the mana whenua on this bill were able to get access."We decided that the mana, the waiata or any haka needs to come from upstairs, to give [an] end and to be able to take the mauri of this bill, lift it ... it was actually about respecting our mana whenua and leaving it with them."What's next?ACT leader David Seymour told media after his bill's defeat that not one of the hundreds of thousands of submissions made to Parliament about it had actually addressed its contents.Debate about the principles of the treaty would continue, he said.And he hopes to revive the bill in next year's election.Waititi said the party would be watching."This is one battle won, but we've got to be vigilant about other harmful policies that are coming out of this government and to ensure that this is not a one-off catalyst."We must always be on our game to ensure that we don't allow similar bills to pass that have similar consequences, where the denigration of the rights, preserve Te Tiriti o Waitangi, are not challenged or are not denigrated any more."We will continue to be at the sentinel tower."Ngarewa-Packer said the party had spent the past year in "defence mode", and the party next wanted to focus more firmly on entrenching Te Tiriti and supporting the rest of the nation to "enjoy learning the absolute taonga that we have in Te Tiriti".Waititi said he believed there should be more educational programmes for MPs being inducted in to Parliament."There are no obligations for any MP sitting in this house, to Te Tiriti or Waitangi or to training ... it's mentioned, but it's just something that just sits in the corner like a spider in the corner of this house."He said the country was not ready for a referendum on the matter, because people had not had the education they deserved to have to understand the Treaty's place in New Zealand's constitutional arrangements.

While Queenstown Lakes continues to battle with its Shotover River wastewater treatment plant, downstream, the Central Otago District Council has just achieved full compliance after a recent audit of its consents.The Otago Regional Council also confirmed to the Regional Leadership Committee on Wednesday, that the discharge pipe from the Shotover plant had not been consented, but declined to comment further while it was before the Environment Court.General manager environmental delivery Joanna Gilroy gave the committee an overview of wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) compliance across Waitaki, Clutha, Central Otago, Queenstown Lakes and Dunedin from April 1, 2023 to December 31, 2024.There were currently a total of 21 significant non-compliance, 11 moderate, and nine low risk during the reporting period.The compliance team monitored compliance for 31 reticulated WWTPs operating under 55 main discharge consents.In late February 2025 Taumata Arowai began consultation on the proposed national environmental performance standard for wastewater. The proposal was for communities to decide how their treatment plants were upgraded in the future.Read more: Drastic new wastewater standards changes the playing fieldThe CODC operated seven reticulated WWTPs under 11 main discharge consents - the QLDC had four with the same number of discharge consents (two currently not active).Jo told the meeting while the reporting period did not cover the ongoing Shotover River issues, as at December 2024, there were two active abatement notices for QLDC managed WWTPs due to non-compliance at the Shotover site.ORC chief executive Richard Saunders said they were doing their bit as the regulator, to get more testing underway, and further downstream where the Shotover met the Kawarau River, “but we can’t be at that site 24/7. We can’t afford to be, we don’t have the resources evenif we wanted to be.”He said the compliance team relied on the testing provided by staff, and they were doing a great job.The Omakau Wastewater Treatment Plant after flooding in 2022. There were 21 significant non-compliance of wastewater treatment plant consents over the past year FILE SHOT.The report said treated discharge from the disposal field posed no significant environmental risk to the Shotover and Kawarau Rivers, the Shotover Delta, or its users.But councillor Alexa Forbes said across the board she was concerned about the number of “systemic failures,” and questioned how there could be so many non-compliances unreported by councils with their discharge consents.She said regarding the public filming the discharges into Shotover River and posting it on social media, “are people taking us seriously here?”“How do we get to that place where we’re close to any compliance at all?”Richard assured everyone that staff were keeping a close eye on the situation and what was happening. They would also respond to genuine complaints “but not every social media post.”Latest testing results would be published on the regional council website from Monday April 14.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Cromwell College pupils are pursuing their music goals by participating in Youth and Adults in the Music Industry (YAMI) summit in Wānaka next month.Teacher in charge of music Cath Forsyth said the pupils had assistance from Cromwell College STAR funding but had to find half the registration fee themselves.The group of nine pupils attending were a range of ages, from different school bands as well as some soloists.“Some will get a chance to perform on stage as part of the Sunday night showcase, with Barnaby Weir from Fly My Pretties which is great,” Cath said. Barnaby is a founding member of The Black Seeds and along with being a singer, songwriter, guitarist, DJ and producer he is known for his mentorship of emerging New Zealand artists. Cath and fellow music teacher Trish Copland will each attend one day of the YAMI summit held in the Lake Wānaka Centre, May 3-4.Tutors this year include Home Brew, The Teskey Brothers, Gin Wigmore, Latinaotearoa, The Nudge, Black Comet, Haz + Miloux, The Nomad and Avantdale Bowling Club.Throughout the weekend participants are mentored in all things music from live sound, lightning, looping and sampling to songwriting, mixing and releasing an album during seminars, masterclasses and workshops. Last year's school band Mistep, who played at the Gibbston Valley concert this summer after being handpicked by American punk band Everclear, had dissolved due to lead singer Grace Tiko focusing on netball. Three of the members Laura Bates, Sullivan (Sully) Sonntag and Louie Maugham were still “really into music” and excited to be going to YAMI.Both Louie and Sully said they were planning to study the bachelor of audio and music production at the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) next year.  Laura said seeing Gin Wigmore at YAMI was going to be a highlight as she loved her music style. In 2026 she is planning on working towards a career in music therapy.Other musical influences the Cromwell College pupils draw inspiration from are Radiohead, Alice in Chains, Adele, Billy Eilish, Hayley Williams (singer from Paramore), drummer Travis Barker (Blink 182), Stewart Copeland (The Police) and Joey Jordison (Slipknot). It is the tenth year of YAMI where established New Zealand musicians and tutors offer workshops and guidance to help the music industry to thrive, and give people insight into careers and pathways in the industry. Tickets to both the evening shows are open to the public and can be purchased through the YAMI websiteAll profits from the public performances go towards music education. The Central App will share an update on their experience later in May.Read more: Learning kicks off in College’s new buildingHave a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Central Otago lakes and rivers remained generally suitable for swimming, after another successful summer monitoring programme.The Otago Regional Council ran three water-based programmes, covering water quality monitoring, freshwater pest education and engagement and a boatie watercraft safety campaign. The separate summer programmes all registered positive levels of public engagement and understanding around the educational aspects of water health, personal boat safety and aquatic pest controls. Water Quality scientist, Helen Trotter, said the summer recreational water quality monitoring programme, which ran from December to March, incorporated weekly testing. “Water quality was generally suitable for swimming across Otago during summer- even if the weather was less than ideal at times,” she said.  In total the programme collected and analysed more than 450 water samples from over 30 sites. She said high bacteria counts at levels unsuitable for swimming were detected at 10 sites during the summer, representing about 3 per cent of all samples collected. “For most sites this meant a single occurrence which was typically associated with rainfall in the surrounding catchment, immediately prior to the sampling,” Helen said. Toxic algae blooms were identified at three monitored sites; Butchers Dam near Alexandra, Lake Waihola south of Dunedin and Tomahawk Lagoon, on Dunedin’s coastal outskirts. While no blooms were observed at the monitored river swim sites, toxic algae was confirmed at several other rivers sites across the region and were then listed on the ORC toxic algae notifications webpage, Helen said. “In several cases, toxic algae observations were initially reported by members of the community which is a good sign people are engaging with the resources available on LAWA [Land, Air, Water Aotearoa], via the ORC website.” “We encourage people to take an active interest in how to keep themselves, their pets and others in their communities safe,” she said. During the off-season LAWA will display the long-term grade for monitored swim sites which indicates the general suitability of a site for swimming and other water-contact recreation. During last summer two Central Otago-based ORC ambassadors surveyed 320 recreational water users, from a total 830 interactions with members of the public. Manager environmental implementation Libby Caldwell said while there had been some “solid” areas of awareness around the Check, Clean, Dry (CCD) campaign, to keep watercraft free of pests, there remained room for improvement – between those who were ‘aware’ (238 people/ 74 per cent ) of CCD and those ‘unaware’ (82 people/ 26 per cent).  “Checking, cleaning and drying watercraft to prevent the transfer of unwanted pests to new locations should be priority for watercraft users and swimmers. Some pests, both plant and animal, have the capacity to become easily established and cause devastation to waterways,” she said.The Otago harbourmaster has had great engagement with Central Otago residents over summer. FILE SHOT ORC harbourmaster Steve Rushbrook said the team had a good year out on the water, with great engagement with the public in Central Otago especially, over the holiday periods. He said the number of incident reports had not been high and generally people appeared to be more conscious of being safe on the water. “We’ve found only a very small percentage of people are not wearing their lifejackets and have to be reminded.” Steve highlighted the team was still seeing quite a few vessels without identification on them. He urged people to read the navigational bylaws around what was required; to display an identifying name or number on their vessel. Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

I’m sure someone (usually meaning well) has told you that your car insurance won’t cover you if you have an accident while wearing jandals.This isn’t necessarily the case. Insurers can decline claims for several reasons, such as drink driving, texting while driving, or driving recklessly. While your jandals may not help with vehicle control if something goes wrong, they wouldn’t be the sole reason for an accident.While it’s not illegal to wear jandals on a motorbike or scooter, they don’t provide much support or protection. It’s worth considering sturdier footwear for safety.What Happens If I Hit a Rock on the Cromwell Gorge?Hopefully, not much. Many of the rocks seem to shatter on impact, but you should pull over as soon as it is safe and check your car.Inspect your wheels - modern low-profile tyres can be easily damaged.Look underneath your car - is there any obvious damage? Is there fluid leaking?If you notice damage or leaks, do not attempt to drive on. Call your insurance broker (or insurer), and they will help arrange for your car to be picked up and transported to a tyre and mechanical workshop for assessment and repair.Be safe at all times. Never stand on the road.Hopefully, the ongoing works in the area will help reduce the number of loose rocks.Keep an Eye on Your Tyre TreadJust because your car passed its Warrant of Fitness (WoF) in the last 6 -12 months doesn’t mean your tyres are still roadworthy. If your tread is below the legal minimum or your tyres are smooth, your car may not be considered roadworthy, which could invalidate your insurance policy and attract police attention.Most tyre retailers are happy to check your tread with little notice, so it’s worth getting it looked at.Inexperienced Drivers & Licence RestrictionsIf you own your car and let others drive it, ensure they are following the conditions of their licence.Restricted licences have clear rules, including driving hours and not carrying passengers unless a full-licence holder is supervising.We’ve seen claims declined due to licence breaches (even when the accident itself was legitimate). And don’t try to bend the truth, there are too many cameras and witnesses for that to work nowadays.Paying an Excess When It’s Not Your FaultIf another insured driver causes damage to your insured car, your excess is usually waived once their insurer confirms their accepted claim.However, if your car is stolen and damaged, you will typically have to pay the excess, unless the thief is caught and ordered by the courts to pay reparation to you or your insurer.

Both Tenants and Landlords in Central Otago need to be aware of what can and cannot be included in a residential Tenancy Agreement. The Residential Tenancies Act 1986 (”Act”) sets out the rights and obligations for both parties, and it is not always possible to get out of these. If a clause contradicts the Act, that clause is likely to be unenforceable. In some cases, including such a clause could be an unlawful act resulting in a fine. When is a clause unenforceable?Despite what a residential Tenancy Agreement states, a Landlord cannot set rules beyond the law, a Tenant cannot sign away their legal rights, and the Act cannot be evaded. If a clause attempts to do so, it is unenforceable. An unenforceable clause has no legal effect, even if both parties have agreed to it. Common unenforceable clauses Professional cleaning requirementsThis most commonly involves cleaning clauses. Under the Act, Tenants must keep the property reasonably clean and tidy. A clause requiring Tenants to have carpets professionally cleaned at the end of the tenancy is unenforceable, as it imposes an obligation beyond the Tenant’s legal duty. Usually, a thorough vacuuming and spot clean is enough to reach this standard. If the carpets are visibly dirty or stained, a professional clean may be necessary, but it cannot be required as a condition of the tenancy. Restrictions on Noise and Parties Loud music and parties are common sources of tension in rental properties. Tenants have the right to quiet enjoyment of the property, meaning they have the right to the full use and benefit of the property. A Landlord must not interfere with a Tenant’s reasonable peace, comfort, or privacy. At the same time, Tenants must not interfere with the reasonable peace, comfort, or privacy of others in the neighbourhood. A clause that outright bans parties is unenforceable, as it unfairly limits a Tenant’s right to enjoy the property. However, Tenants who breach their obligations under the Act could face consequences. The Tenancy Tribunal has found Tenants who play excessively loud music late at night, or host parties for extended periods, to be in breach of their responsibilities. Notice Periods Notice periods for ending a tenancy are set by law. For example, a recent law change allows a Landlord to end a periodic tenancy without reason by providing 90 days’ notice. A clause allowing a Landlord to give less notice than required by the Act is unenforceable. This is true even if the Landlord and Tenant reach a ‘win-win’ deal, such as the Tenant paying reduced rent in exchange for the Landlord being able to terminate the tenancy with 30 days’ notice. Summary Tenancy Agreements must comply with the Act, and clauses that contradict the Act are unenforceable. Including such clauses can create confusion, disputes, and even legal consequences. To avoid unnecessary stress or potential fines, Landlords should ensure their Tenancy Agreements align with the law, and Tenants should be aware of their rights. Checketts McKay Law’s team of tenancy law specialists can assist Landlords and Tenants in navigating Tenancy Agreements and ensuring compliance with the Act. This article offers an overview of one aspect of tenancy law and is not intended as legal advice.

This weekly feature showcases the newest listings from Tall Poppy Real Estate, offering you a first look at the latest homes on the market and updated every Thursday.Expansive Bridge Hill Land with Stunning ViewsLOT 2, 41 Earnscleugh Road, AlexandraNestled on a scenic expanse of 1.72 hectares, Lot 2 41 Earnscleugh Road presents a unique opportunity for those seeking a project among breathtaking landscapes.Click here for more information or to contact the agent Dee Labes and Peter Hishon.Family Home in Clyde with Modern Comforts94 Shields Street, ClydeWelcome to 94 Shields Street, Clyde, a stunning two-storey home that perfectly blends modern living with the charm of a welcoming neighbourhood. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Dee Labes and Peter Hishon.Modern Family Home Near Rail Trail & Cafes!149A Dunstan Road, AlexandraWelcome to 149A Dunstan Road, a meticulously crafted home nestled in the picturesque community of Alexandra.Click here for more information or to contact the agent Stacey Waldron and Rebecca Ireland.Stunning Home with Separate Cottage41 Manuherikia Road, AlexandraNestled at 41 Manuherikia Road in the charming town of Alexandra, this exceptional property presents a rare blend of contemporary living and tranquil surroundings.Click here for more information or to contact the agent Stacey Waldron and Rebecca Ireland.Historic Clyde is the Location12 Blyth Street, ClydeNestled in the charming community of Clyde, 12 Blyth Street presents a delightful opportunity for those seeking an escape or a perfect family holiday home. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Stacey Waldron and Rebecca Ireland.Affordable Family Living with Space to Grow9 Austral Place, CromwellIf you're looking for a home that offers space, comfort, and practicality, 9 Austral Place is a standout choice.Click here for more information or to contact the agent Kate Andrew.Solid, Spacious, and Full of Potential!18 Waenga Drive, CromwellDiscover the charm of this solidly built Oamaru Stone home set on an elevated, established garden - perfect for those who love outdoor living. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Kate Andrew.Prime Location, Primo Price!28A Erris Street, CromwellSituated in sought-after Old Cromwell, just moments from Lake Dunstan and the Cromwell Heritage Precinct, 28A Erris Street is the perfect home for those seeking a blend of modern comfort and low-maintenance living.Click here for more information or to contact the agent Keeley Anderson.Stunning Family Home with Breathtaking Views!1 Mitchell Place, CromwellNestled in the charming community of Cromwell, 1 Mitchell Place is a stunning family home designed for contemporary living while embracing the beauty of its surroundings.Click here for more information or to contact the agent Kate Andrew.Secure Your Stylish New Townhouse in ClydeLot 2, 50 Sunderland Street, Clyde50 Sunderland Street, Clyde, offers a rare opportunity to secure a beautifully designed, low-maintenance home in a prime central location.Click here for more information or to contact the agent Peter Hishon and Dee Labes.Charming Fully Renovated Home in Cromwell!52 Ray Street, CromwellWelcome to 52 Ray Street, a delightful and fully renovated two-story home nestled in the heart of Cromwell. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Kate AndrewCharacter Family Home97 Centennial Avenue, AlexandraWelcome to 97 Centennial Avenue, Alexandra, a charming 1940s home that combines historic elegance with modern comforts.Click here for more information or to contact the agent Peter Hishon and Dee Labes.Want to see more? click here to view all of Tall Poppy’s current listings.

Central Otago Wilding Conifers Control Group (COWCCG) has a smarter new tool in its arsenal.The group has been testing hybrid drone spraying as a way to control the spread of the pest species.COWCCG project manager Pete Oswald said the new technology was a major breakthrough in the fight against wilding pines.The group has been working with robotics company SPS Automation on a trial on the Rock and Pillar Range in Central Otago.The drone used in the trial is an ‘Agri-copter AC16’ a hybrid drone (petrol and battery technology) which overcomes the limitations of previous models of drones tested, which could fly for approximately 10 minutes.The AC16 uses automated mapping to locate and spray wilding conifers, can fly for an hour over a four kilometer range, and cope with windy conditions.The drone was tested on a 400 ha block of Department of Conservation land that had been set aside from a 3000 ha block covered late last year by a ground crew.Pete said the density of the weed was one tree per hectare, and the trees in the test were about three to eight years old and on the brink of coning. The conditions were sparse, distant spread pines in tussock country, where wind can be problematic for spraying.“It’s not a silver bullet, but in this scenario it feels like quite a breakthrough.”A photo showing how the drone can account for wind drift of spray. Photo: COWCCG SuppliedThe drone pilot could take manual control and adjust for wind conditions, and a dye added to the herbicide helps to ensure accurate spraying.Pete said having a tool like this in the hands of ground crew would be useful as it would mean successful targeting of pines they couldn't get to, which would have previously required a helicopter or an arborist on ropes. “What we need is uptake, iteration and big deployment, then these drones will become better and better,” Pete said. SPS Automation chief executive Scott Spooner said the Agri-copter AC would cost $80,000 per aircraft and the NZ owned aerospace research and development company was in the final stages of development and bringing them to market “as we speak.”SPS Automation’s vision for the future is of multiple aircraft all operating in a single area and fully autonomously.He added the AC16 drone has not come from overseas, it has been developed in New Zealand and there are plans to bring a larger one to market in 2026. COWCCG is going to monitor the test site to determine the full success of the trial. Drone spraying is already used commercially in various locations in New Zealand. Watch a short video about the SPS Automation approach to controlling wilding conifers here (this features the model used as a prototype for the AC16). VIDEO: YouTubeSee more from Central Otago Wilding Conifers Control Group here COWCCG is an independent community not-for-profit organisation formed in 2013 in response to mounting concerns about the impact and spread of wilding conifers on the Central Otago landscape. The organisation is funded by Ministry of Primary Industries’ National Wilding Conifer Control Programme, and contributions from Otago Regional Council, Central Otago District Council and Land Information New Zealand.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Queenstown Lakes and Cromwell might still get their own Otago Regional Council constituency after councillors agreed yesterday to relook at the boundaries in 2027.The Local Government Commission last week upheld the regional council’s recommendation to keep boundaries the same, and increase the Dunstan ward to four elected members.Queenstown Lakes district Mayor Glyn Lewers appealed the regional council’s proposal, but the commission agreed it was worthwhile the ORC revisit the issue by looking at the population data again in two years time.A report to council by general manager strategy and customer Amanda Vercoe, said the commission noted the region’s population growth and its distribution was an issue the regional council needed to actively monitor from a representation point of view. In its review of representation consideration was given to the current constituencies, but with the transfer of one member from the Dunedin Constituency to the Dunstan Constituency.The creation of an ‘Upper Lakes’ constituency comprising Queenstown Lakes District and the Cromwell Ward of Central Otago District was considered.The commission said in its decision the geographic scale of the existing Dunstan constituency created too many divergent needs to consider the whole population as one community of interest.The population growth of the constituency, and in particular Queenstown Lakes was acknowledged, as was Mayor Lewer's arguments about the similarities of Queenstown, Wanaka and Cromwell.The Local Government Commission has suggested the ORC relook at its boundaries and population growth again in two years. FILE SHOTBut the commission had some issues about creating a non-complaint constituency (the residual Dunstan Constituency) to provide the remainder of the district with separate representation. “We also have qualms about whether the residual Dunstan Constituency would receive more effective representation through electing one member compared to the current four members.”Dunstan ward councillor Gary Kelliher told council yesterday the two Mayors (Queenstown and Dunedin) appeals were “presumptuous” and “unreasonable.”He was backed by fellow Dunstan ward councillor Michael Laws who said Mayor Lewers’ quote “you have to live in an area to serve it,’’ was ironic given he was so Queenstown-centric that Wanaka - being further from Queenstown than Cromwell, would escape his argument as well.Cr Laws complimented chair Gretchen Robertson on successfully representing the regional council’s case and refuting those arguments.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

After more than a decade, the Roxburgh Gorge Trail is set to be completed.In a statement released on Monday, the Southern Lakes Trails announced construction on the missing section of the Roxburgh Gorge Trail will commence later this year following the successful negotiation of a trail alignment agreement that had been years in the making.The significant milestone was the result of three years of work between Roxburgh Gorge Trail Trust secretary Dr Barrie Wills, Southern Lakes Trails chief executive Janeen Wood and James Russell of Gorge Creek Station, as well as with Members of Parliament, Land Information New Zealand (LINZ), and the Department of Conservation (DoC), to navigate past challenges and secure a positive outcome.James said “Once we removed the clowns, the bullies, and well-intentioned people who didn’t fully understand the implications, all it took was the right people working together towards balanced solutions.”Barrie has been involved in the trail project since its inception and has walked the land many times. Together with James, he identified an alignment which will provide a stunning and enjoyable ride through the gorge’s rugged terrain.“After more than a decade of patiently working on maintaining the existing trail and planning to complete 'the Gap', it is gratifying to be working with the landowners to get that last 13kms constructed, ‘’ Barrie said.“Much of it will be on the original alignment, passing interesting heritage spots and withmagnificent views across Lake Roxburgh/Clutha Mata-au River, including where the old 14 Mile electric dredge once operated. ‘’Roxburgh Gorge trail has always had brilliant feedback from cyclists and walkers, the landscape, flora and fauna is special and we look forward to providing decades more of this great Central Otago experience to all”.The Roxburgh Gorge Trail originally opened in 2013 with only the two end sections from Alexandra to Doctors Point and from Roxburgh Dam to Shingle Creek completed. The missing section has been bridged by Clutha River Cruises, which has provided a unique jet boat transfer for trail users. Once completed, the Roxburgh Gorge Trail will span 34 kilometres, providing a seamless link in the broader vision of a continuous cycling network from Queenstown to Waihola/Dunedin. The full network is planned to extend 280 kilometres to Waihola.Janeen expressed her thanks to all who have given their support to this project, specifically the Miller family who farm the neighbouring property through which the trail traverses to complete the connection to Shingle Creek.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

A local gym has been raising awareness about Parkinson’s this week; encouraging people to wear blue to exercise classes and on World Parkinson’s Day tomorrow.NRG Alexandra personal trainer Teresa Noble said the number of people suffering from Parkinson's is due to increase dramatically but the future was “tough but positive”, with a huge amount of research happening. “It’s not [just] a disease that affects just older people, and exercising is essential.“Exercise is medicine for Parkinson’s and it’s something I’m so passionate about.”Teresa said participants in the Perky Parkies class were “seriously impressive” carrying out kettle bell swings and doing cardio on the ski-erg machine.Two of the group were retired farmers, and Mervyn Kinaston and wife Helen were ’the originals’, and had been doing the class for more than two years. They have been married for 60 years today (10 April). Neil King said he valued the camaraderie of the class.“The group all have something in common. If I shake, I shake, they all understand.”“Having Parkinson’s is the reality for us and here you’re not on your own… we can be a boost for one another.”Neil added they had a sense of humour and quipped “we keep it on the level.”Helen said no one asked for Parkinson’s and it was just something that happens and people had to fight it and keep moving in whatever way they could.The group said they were open minded to trying new things when working out and being together was important.“You’re not on your own [with Parkinson’s] help and support is in the community, so there should be no hibernation, don’t be isolated,” Neil said.Symptoms they found challenging were their facial expressions being impacted, difficulty sleeping, and easily losing their balance.Helen said having even footing was key and all the rugs and carpets needed to be one level at home to prevent trips. The theme of the international awareness day is #SparktheNight with more than 440 buildings and global landmarks shining blue in solidarity with the 11.8million people who are living with the condition. They include the New York Stock Exchange, Piccadilly Circus, Niagara Falls, the Australian Royal Mint and closer to home the Otago Railway Station Clock and the Cromwell sign.In New Zealand, thousands of people are physically and mentally affected by Parkinson’s, a progressive neurological condition.According to Parkinson New Zealand, there are 13,000 people in New Zealand who are currently living with Parkinson’s. This number is expected to double within the next 20 years.It becomes more common with older age groups, and it is believed 1 per cent of people above the age of 60 have Parkinson’s. The average age at diagnosis is 59.While the condition cannot be cured, symptoms can be managed through different methods, including physical therapy.Young people can develop Parkinson's, with about 10 to 20 per cent of people experiencing symptoms before they turn 50. This is called "young onset," and while treatments are similar, the disease may affect younger people differently.Tremors and other motor symptoms are well-known, many other symptoms, such as depression and loss of speech, sleep and gut issues are hidden and can impact quality of life. To find out more about the Perky Parkies class, on Wednesdays at 12-1pm, contact [email protected] April has been World Parkinson’s Month to raise awareness, support those affected and push for a cure. Patient led organisation PD Avengers has been uniting people to try to end Parkinson’s with actions throughout the month, as has not for profit Parkinson’s New Zealand.Find out more about Parkinson’s New Zealand hereVisit the World Parkinson’s Day websiteRead more: Community Champion - Kusitina Colailgo Mother to the MigrantsHave a story to share?Contact [email protected] 

Pilots will not recognise Alexandra Airport when they approach the landing after its new $500,000 reseal.Last week a new Steelguard product was added to the chipseal to blend in with the existing surface and ensure a much smoother landing.Queenstown-based HEB Construction’s asphalt crew specialise in the product’s application, and completed the reseal in just six days.The runway was back in action again on Sunday morning, and airport resident Nigel Forrester said there were some keen locals, including himself, ready to try it out in the weekend.“It will be interesting to see how long it lasts. But it’s 100 per cent better than what it was.”The resurfacing of the 1200m long by 30m wide chip sealed runway should last up to 10 years, depending on future use.Nigel said at the end of day, they were not trying to lift the rating of the runway, “and we couldn’t do it legally anyway without extending it.”The first and last time the runway was resealed was back in the 1980s when the airport was redeveloped from just a paddock into a paved strip and a terminal building added.The airport was first opened in the 1960s and the buildings are now jointly owned by the Central Otago District Council and the Central Otago Flying Club.Mount Cook Airlines operated aircraft out of Alexandra from 1969 to 1991, along with Goldfields Air from 1985 to 1986 (direct route to Christchurch). Pacifica Air was involved from 1998-1989 and Airlink in 1989.Mainland Air currently operates a private service for medical specialists flying into Central Otago that hold clinics at Dunstan Hospital.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Social media giant Meta removed two popular Central Otago Facebook forums last month, with administrators still unable to reinstate the groups.Central Otago Ratepayers/Residents Forum and popular group Cromwell Today were removed on the morning of March 20, with admins posting on other community pages informing people of the move.“The Page's Administrators, with the requisite skills and knowledge, have since then been attempting to understand why the Page was taken down and then get it reinstated,’’ the post said.“Somewhat ironically, META/Facebook do not provide any direct means of communication with page administrators and leave it to their AI to do their 'talking'.Meta states it will remove pages and groups that ‘repeatedly violate the Community Standards’’. A new Central Otago Ratepayers/Residents Forum Facebook group has since been created, however the founder has stood back from his administration role to let others lead.Cromwell based Bill Sanders started the first group in February.He is also administrator on several other Cromwell community Facebook pages, helping young people find jobs and accommodation, and selling their wares.Some of the pages have up to 12,000 followers but the residents and ratepayers forum was struggling to get more than 500, and that was disappointing, he said.He had intended to grow the page to 10,000 people and to have residents from all over Central Otago being able to share their views on a range of council issues.“The aim of the page is we’re trying to engage with council on another level.”A public meeting in Cromwell this week on the Long Term Plan also struggled to get the numbers - Bill said there would be lucky to be more than 30 there.He can not work out why, when it was election year and with continuing rates increases, more people were not showing an interest in getting involved or at least showing up to voice their concerns.“I made a decision that I’m better off spending more time with my wife and family. The page was taking up a lot of time and energy.”Admitting there was a lot of anger on the residents and ratepayers page, “at the end of the day people are angry at stuff but not angry enough to vent their frustrations publicly.”The page was now run by Stephen Carruth from Cromwell, Stu Millis from Alexandra and Cam Withington.Stu Millis of Alexandra, has taken over one of the admin roles on the Central Otago Resident/Ratepayer forum FILE SHOTStu said, when contacted, the idea when the page first started was to find someone to stand for mayor and/or council - some fresh blood, “but everyone’s too old, so now we’re just the group that complains,” he said.The group was also currently running a petition to have the council reconsider joining the regional deal with Queenstown Lakes District Council.Read more: Central Otago District Council to reconsider joining the region deal?Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

More than a year after the old building was demolished, Cromwell College’s new art and technology block is up and running.Principal Mason Stretch said in a school newsletter it had taken 13 months to get to this point.A whakawātea (blessing) for the whare was led by Matua Darren Rewi from Queenstown on the morning of March 20.College staff, prefects and the kapa haka group supported the mahi of ‘clearing’ the spaces for use by everyone. “Ngā mihi to our Māori Pasifika Pou Hadley Farquharson for supporting the blessing with mihi and karakia and thank you to all involved for the tautoko (support).”The food technology room will be fully operational and available at the start of next term, and an official opening and naming is planned for term two as well. The new building is home to classes in computer studies, graphics and design, art, technology, materials and STEM. Pupils have moved into the new building for technology classes. PHOTO: Cromwell College Facebook A glimpse inside the food technology space. PHOTO: Cromwell College Facebook The original metalwork and woodwork classrooms were demolished back in mid-December 2023. PHOTO: Supplied Mason said the new building was functional, had a lot of natural light and a sense of calm and wairua (spirit) within it. The new art and technology block. PHOTO: The Central AppThe C block classrooms are to be refurbished and available later in term two. Cromwell College has been on its current Barry Ave site since 1984. It began in 1978 with the change from Cromwell District HIgh School into a Year 7 to 13 college. The school motto is Deserve Success, and Whāia te taumata – pursue the highest peaks, is the whakatauki (guiding proverb).Read more: Armed offenders exercise in Cromwell tomorrowHave a story to share?Contact [email protected] 

The Central Otago District Council is making preparations to hear Santana Minerals Fast Track Application for a Bendigo gold mine.Mayor Tamah Alley, deputy Mayor Neil Gillespie and Cromwell councillor Sarah Browne have all been appointed to the mine’s hearings panel.The council decided last Friday that as chair of the hearings panel, it made sense for Cr Gillespie to be involved, with his significant experience.Group manager - planning and infrastructure Louise van der Voort told the council they had experts ready to go in the hearing, and the Otago Regional Council was likely to have its own panel as well.She said the experts would be looking carefully at the rehabilitation of the land and conditions around the compensation of that.Due to the significance of scale, the council was likely to get some expertise, and there had already been discussions with the regional council about it.In December, the new Fast Track Approvals Act (FTA) became law. The two projects listed in the FTA for Central Otago were the Bendigo-Ophir Gold project, and the Remarkables Ski Area Upgrade and Doolans Expansion. In her report, Louise said there had been some conversations with Matakanui Gold Limited/Santana Minerals Limited indicating an application would be received in the coming weeks for the Bendigo Ophir Gold project. No dialogue has occurred with the agents representing the Remarkables Ski Area Upgrade and Doolans Expansion proposal to date.Council was likely to engage specialists on landscape, ecology and acoustics. That would be reviewed once the application was received in late April.It was noted in the report, that there was limited ability for the public and stakeholders to be involved in the applications. “There is a high level of interest in a number of these projects from the community and desire to understand council’s position on the proposals,’’ she said.“Whilst this level of interest is recognised, there is no legal ability for council to provide further opportunities for public participation beyond the specified steps in the Act.”Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Increased resilience, confidence, determination and motivation were the outcomes of an eight week youth development programme for Central teenagers.Eighteen Dunstan High School pupils were put through their paces and tested with surprise team challenges and outdoor activities during the Blue Light Alternative Strategy for Teenagers (BLAST) longest day last Friday.Puna Rangitahi (Alexandra and Districts Youth Trust) manager Tash Kane, youth workers Nathan Zimmerman and Marley Ferguson, NZ Police youth aid officer James McDonald, BLAST volunteer instructor Lia Chapman, Sport Central sport and active recreation advisor Ben Hamilton and NRG Alexandra personal trainer Teresa Noble ran the day and the various activities.The Longest Day marks the end of the BLAST programme, and is made up of 12 hours of physical and mental challenges. Participants who completed the day earn a hoodie and a t-shirt, along with a “massive sense of accomplishment”.The day began with an early morning swim in the freezing Alexandra outdoor pool where pupils had to dive in and find hidden sunken objects. Next up there was a bike ride down the Otago Central Rail Trail to Clyde to the beach alongside the Dunstan Arm Rowing Club. Getting ready to paddle across to the pontoon were Sam Melvin (15), Jesse Roscoe-Bell (15), William Wallis (13 kneeling), Anastasia McNally (13), Maddy Bruce (13) and William Forsyth (13). PHOTO: The Central App The three teams of six pupils had a series of demanding tasks to complete including a store carry of tyres and barrels and memory game, a food tasting challenge, a paddle board and team challenge on Lake Dunstan, and a land based problem solving game ‘acid river into spider web’.Year 10 pupil Sean Crawford said the programme had been amazing and he had enjoyed every minute.“I’m fitter, we did the beep test at the start of the term, and again at the end. Everyone improved.”Sean had put his name forward to return as a mentor for a new group of BLAST participants in 2026.He said he was thrilled about being selected to be a mentor.“BLAST is definitely something everyone should try at least once.”Along with improved strength and fitness he said it was a confidence booster and he had made friendship connections too.Team Bravo were Felix, Sean, Harper, Dani, Faith, Natalie. They are pictured here after finishing the challenge set by Sport Central’s Ben Hamilton. PHOTO: The Central AppFifteen-year-old Jesse Roscoe-Bell said being on the programme had helped with his sleeping schedule which was an unexpected but beneficial result.The programme requires early morning commitment - it has been on three mornings a week from 6 - 8.30am. The memory game task was to memorise a pattern of tyre treads, before working together to move the load along the Lake Dunstan Trail. PHOTO: The Central App The surprise fire truck pull required team work and strength after the lake based challenges. PHOTO: SuppliedDHS pupils with the staff behind the BLAST programme at the graduation ceremony. PHOTO: Supplied Maniototo Area School has their BLAST longest day coming up on Friday. For further information on BLAST contact [email protected] Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Keep your eyes peeled for fifty teams ensconced in MINIs taking part in a fundraising roadie - they are due to hit Cromwell later today. The Pork Pie Charity Run is a bi-annual fundraising road trip for MINI lovers, based loosely on the route taken by the Blondini Gang in the original Goodbye Pork Pie movie.The first run in 2009 saw 36 teams travel from Kaitaia to Invercargill over five days. Since then the event has grown, with participation reaching a 60-car limit and the journey extended to six days. Due to accommodation and logistical constraints, the run now caps at 50 teams, and entries quickly sell out. Spokesperson Kevin Hollamby said it would be around 5pm the cars would be at Cromwell’s Harvest Hotel and people were welcome to come down and take a look and learn more about the event, and the charity set to benefit from the funds raised. The teams will stay overnight in Cromwell and leaving on the final leg to Invercargill via Dunedin on Wednesday. They left Pahia at 2pm on April 3 to begin their journey south. The route is 2300km long over six days and seven nights, taking in beautiful scenery, mountain roads and city traffic. The route of the 50 MINIs driving the length of the country for charity. PHOTO: Supplied The aim for the 2025 event is to raise $500,000— enough to support 1500 more kids through charity KidsCan, keeping them warm, fed, and ready to thrive in the classroom.The cult classic kiwi movie Goodbye Pork Pie was released in 1981 and was one of the first financially successful New Zealand films. It was filmed in November 1979 and used only 24 cast and crew; the director Geoff Murphy did some stunts himself.  It was remade in 2016, and the remake was released in February 2017. Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]