Clyde Volunteer firefighter and orchardist Tim Paulin is gearing up to complete his eleventh Sky Tower Challenge next month. He is one of five from the Clyde brigade taking part, they’ve been training since February, using their “Stairs For Mental Health” WhatsApp group to tee up stair climbs at the Clyde Dam and keep each other on track. Tim said each member wants to raise $1,500 individually to qualify for automatic entry to next year's event. “[As a team] we’ve got $2,500 so far… and we expect to get around $5,000.”Firefighters need to cover their own accommodation and travel costs but he said it was a rewarding experience to be a part of.“We get as much out of it ourselves, as we put in. It’s a good cause, it keeps us fit, and we get together and have a yarn.”Now in his 50s he has figured out his pace up the Sky Tower but he said participants, himself included “get wobbly, and your brain goes to funny places,” due to the difficulty of the event.“You sound like Darth Vader in your helmet, but it’s all about focus.“People are lined up at the start, there’s 20 second intervals.. and the young guys in their 20s do catch me and pass me. I carry on plodding.“Then I’ll pass them maybe 10 more floors up, or by the end… they’ve blown themselves out.”A Clyde firefighter takes part in the 2021 Sky Tower Challenge. PHOTO: File After a workout in the Clyde Dam; Peter, Andy, Tim, Tom and Barry from Clyde. PHOTO: SuppliedTim said he plans to keep doing the challenge, until he can’t, or maybe the cost to take part might result in him stopping. “Clyde is a little town, and we’re a little brigade, the fundraising side of things is getting harder.”Tim has had a cousin who has had blood cancer and has another friend currently battling Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. “Plenty of people have been touched by [Leukaemia and Blood Cancer]”Other Central firefighters are training for the annual Auckland Sky Tower challenge next month too. Pages for local residents to show their support can be found online for Alexandra, Clyde, Cromwell and Naseby.Dunstan rural firefighter Josh Woodside has been training with the Clyde members for the challenge, and has signed up as an individual. PHOTO: Supplied The Firefighter Sky Tower Challenge is now in its 21st consecutive year and now raises more than $1M for the charity annually. Along with Kiwi firefighters international competitors come from Australia, Chile, Germany, Croatia and the United Kingdom. The firefighters will be wearing full firefighter gear and breathing apparatus that weighs around 25kg. The climb is 1103 steps, 328m high. It’s more than 50 flights of stairs to the top. The average race time is 16 minutes.Fundraising closes just prior to the challenge, on Saturday May 24. Leukaemia and Blood Cancer New Zealand supported 6,600 patients in 2024, along with the firefighter challenge one of it’s other fundraisers is Shave for a Cure that occurs in May too. All the best to the Central firefighters taking part.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Central Otago District councillors have sent a clear message to gaming societies, to increase their transparency and increase their funding.Council had to decide this week whether to retain class 4 gambling machines in pubs and clubs under current settings or introduce a 'sinking lid' approach where gaming machines would reduce over time.The societies which operate gaming machines were legally mandated to return 40% of the proceeds by way of community grants, but Central Otago received an average of just 27% of gaming machine funding returned as grant funding per year. "It's hard to prove there is a benefit coming back to the community, and whether that benefit would outweigh the harm," Mayor Tamah Alley summarised, asking that the societies return, at the next review, with clear benefits, data and evidence of an increase in return.In its Moderation Matters Consultation 2025, the number of submissions for and against phasing out gaming machines were split 11 each way, and councillors heard from health professionals and those involved with gaming machine funding.Those arguing against the sinking lid policy, including the Gaming Machine Association of New Zealand, said there was no link between the decline in machine numbers and problem gaming - which was currently at 0.2%.The district currently received $1.28 million in local grants from gaming machine funding, and Otago Rugby Football Union chief executive Richard Kinley said without it would result in a reassessment of its programme delivery.“Cost should be no barrier to children for rugby. We want children to play sport and if that’s rugby that’s great.”ORFU had been a recipient of gaming machine funding for many years, and emphasised that it was a critical part of its ability to deliver programmes across the region.But the Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF) said more than $1.037 billion was lost to pokies in New Zealand in 2024, and was strongly in support of the sinking lid policy.Central Otago currently had nine Class 4 Gambling venues (pubs/clubs) - considered the most high risk and harmful types in New Zealand. There were a total of 107 machines in the district.Mayor Alley asked councillors to weigh up the costs of problem gambling in the community, versus the benefits of being able to keep kids in sport.She also questioned the PGF about what support services they had for people in the district. Staff said there a fulltime counsellor available in Dunedin. Health New Zealand medical officer of health Dr Michael Bouchard, who also strongly in support of the sinking lid policy and said the peer reviewed medical literature spoke for itself.“It’s not an issue of problematic people but problematic products.”He said they couldn’t fix gambling harm by treating people but treating the cause.Mayor Alley used the opportunity again to question what level of support problem gamblers had in Central Otago, highlighting the district’s lack of access to many important health services.Dr Bouchard said the harm in gambling outweighed the grants “there is no doubt about that.”“The grants are easy to see but the harm is unseen because it’s in people’s homes. People are unaware of the magnitude of the harm.”After a lengthy discussion, councillors moved to support retaining the status quo, citing concerns about the risk to community funding, and the lack of alternative funding sources.The policy will next be reviewed, based on any of these changes, in 2028.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected] 

One farmer’s story of a bumpy day and how he kept the wheels turning.Accidents on the farm are never ideal, but they’re often inevitable. With deadlines to hit, stock to manage, and paddocks that don’t plough themselves, there’s never a good time for your gear to be out of action.Toby knows this all too well. One evening, after a full day’s work, he parked up his tractor and trailer, only for a mate’s truck to back into them. The force of the hit jolted the trailer forward into the tractor, smashing the PTO and leaving the whole setup unusable.There’s not a lot of time for stress on a farm, but in that moment, Toby was stuck. Tractors aren’t exactly something you can do without when things are moving fast. Replacements are pricey. Payments take time. And nobody’s got hours to waste.Luckily, Toby’s story didn’t stop there. His policy included something called a Loss of Use Benefit, basically, cover that kicks in when your vehicle can’t be used, even if it wasn’t your fault. He was able to hire a tractor straight away, get back to work, and then recover the cost through his insurance.These kinds of policies don’t just cover crashes. They’re designed to reduce downtime because for farmers, standing still isn’t an option.This particular claim is real, though we’ve changed a few details to protect the people involved.Every year, around 30% of farm commercial motor vehicles are claimed on, and the average cost for non-windscreen damage sits at about $5850.While most people think of these policies as protection for big crashes, the benefits stretch much further—helping farmers stay productive even when things go off track.Some of those added protections can include:Cover for borrowed vehiclesRental vehicle costsTyre damageEntanglement cover (think PTOs and wire fences)Worth having a yarn with your broker about what’s in your current policy? Could save you a major headache down the track.

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.Near new and awaiting you71 Dunstan Road71 Dunstan Road is a beautifully refurbished family home that perfectly combines comfort, style, and convenient living. The property is designed for those who appreciate quality and contemporary design while also looking for outdoor potential and accessibility to amenities. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Peter Hishon and Dee Labes.Elevated Elegance15 Aronui RoadDiscover the perfect blend of comfort and style at 15 Aronui Road, nestled in the vibrant community of Alexandra. The home, located on the picturesque Bridge Hill, promises a warm welcome. With its scenic views and beautifully refurbished interior, this property is ideal for families or anyone seeking a serene retreat in a prime location. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Peter Hishon and Dee Labes.Timeless Architectural Gem in Clyde Awaits3 Gye Street, ClydeNestled in iconic Clyde, 3 Gye Street beckons with an array of premium features that define modern living. This architectural masterpiece, built in 2015, offers a unique blend of sophistication, comfort, and lifestyle, making it the perfect retreat for families or retirees. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Peter Hishon and Dee Labes.Charming 3-Bedroom Home in Sought-After Cromwell!5B Syndic Street, CromwellNestled in the heart of Cromwell, 5B Syndic Street presents an excellent opportunity for those seeking a comfortable and modern living space in a prime location. Whether you’re looking for your first home or a solid investment, this charming residence ticks all the boxes. Just a stone's throw from various leisure activities and local amenities, this home offers a harmonious balance of convenience and tranquillity.Click here for more information or to contact the agent Kate Andrew.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. This remarkable property offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and functionality, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a serene lifestyle close to nature. With breathtaking views and a prime location, this home is an opportunity not to be missed.Click here for more information or to contact the agent Kate Andrew.Strikingly Unique16 Athenry Road, AlexandraThis impressive four-bedroom home offers a perfect blend of modern comfort, privacy, and spacious living, making it an ideal sanctuary for families or anyone looking for a tranquil lifestyle. Sitting in a desirable location, this property is not just a house; it’s a place you will love to call home. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Stacey Waldron and Rebecca Ireland.Immaculate Family Home3 Campbell Street, AlexandraWelcome to a very well presented family home located at 3 Campbell Street, Alexandra. The property offers a perfect blend of contemporary design and practical functionality, making it an ideal retreat for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.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.

The new Elevate Central business group has formed an incorporated society with an active committee, after its inaugural general meeting in February.With 30 to 40 active members already joined, the group encompassed a large cross section of people from across the district including business owners, school principals and council representatives.Elevate Central Inc was committed to strengthening the region through connection, collaboration, and shared leadership.At its second monthly breakfast in Alexandra this week, chair Dewald de Beer encouraged members to get to know one another and share insights from their industry.Over the past month the committee has canvassed the business community to have conversations about the Central Otago District Council’s Long Term Plan (LTP), and received feedback from 108 of those.Dewald said as a district they had to be mindful of growth projections and planning, as there could be some issues around infrastructure.Committee member Brent Wilson was part of the original Central Otago Chamber of Commerce group back in the 1990s, and said they had come a long way since then.“It’s about being positive and proactive. Together we can do a hell of a lot more.”He said despite the economic upheaval, people were just “getting on with it.”Elevate Central Inc members would also be collaborating on local projects and be involved with business advocacy.There would be guest speaker breakfasts and networking sessions, and overall it was a platform to share, learn and celebrate local success stories.If you'd like to learn more about joining the leadership group email [email protected] If you have a good story to share contact [email protected] Central Group formed

Game bird hunters across Otago are gearing up for what looks to be an encouraging start to the 2025 season, which opens on Saturday (May 3).Despite a change in monitoring approach this year, Otago Fish & Game officers are optimistic about duck numbers throughout the region following favourable breeding conditions.Central Otago Sports Depot - all your duck shooting supplies are here!"We’re committed to preserving our outdoor traditions and protecting the habitats that sustain game bird species,” Fish & Game officer Bruce Quirey said."After analysing years of data between annual aerial counts of mallards and harvest surveys in Otago, we've found the numbers don't correlate."A large mallard count doesn't necessarily mean a big harvest, and vice versa."In response to these findings and recognising the importance of being responsible with how Otago Fish & Game manages its resources, the organisation has suspended preseason aerial flights this year."Instead, we're working at a national level to review best practices for game bird monitoring," Bruce said."We will keep licence holders informed of next steps and continue our long-term harvest surveys this season. Don't be surprised if you get a phone call from us, asking about your individual hunting success."Anecdotal reports from across the region suggest promising populations in multiple areas.In the Maniototo, good numbers of ducks are being seen on the upper Taieri River, which is beginning to recover after several dry months. Around the broader Taieri area, hunters and farmers are commenting on healthy duck populations along the river system and in certain paddocks.The Milton area is seeing large mobs of mallards moving on and off paddocks, while South Otago observers have noted substantial numbers on ponds near Balclutha and on the lower Clutha River (Mata-Au).Recent footage captured a significant mob of ducks in the Clinton area, with good numbers also observed on Lake Tuakitoto.West Otago is reporting large numbers of ducks on ponds and harvested grain paddocks around Tapanui. The Fish & Game managed wetland at Takitakitoa is holding more water than at this time in the previous two years – a positive sign for hunters in that area.Hunters on large water bodies such as lakes Waihola and Waipori will be hoping for windy conditions to move birds around.“As with every season, Opening Weekend success will depend significantly on weather conditions,” Bruce said.Hunters should expect moderate breezes and cloudy skies with late showers around coastal and southern parts of Otago, according to the latest forecasts. Light to gentle breezes are expected inland.Fish & Game has contacted owners of corporate and government sites in the Milton area, requesting assistance with disturbing ducks off private, unshot ponds on opening day to help hunters in the area.Five ranger teams will be checking compliance at both private and public hunting locations across Otago on opening weekend.Hunters are reminded to make firearms safe, present game bird licences when requested, and follow rangers' instructions.Duck hunters planning to hunt in other Fish & Game regions are also being reminded to check local regulations.“Each region has its own set of regulations working in conjunction with the national regulations, these include bag limits and season lengths.”Have a story to share? Let us know how your duck shooting opening weekend goes, email your pictures and we'll publish the best ones.Contact [email protected] Otago Sports Depot

Central Otago police have extra tools to control highway disorder around both the Alexandra Blossom Festival and the New Zealand Merino Shears.The Teviot Valley has now been included in the Central Otago Alcohol Restrictions in Public Places Bylaw, after issues from out of town hoons in recent years.Alexandra Police spoke to the Central Otago District Council yesterday as part of its submission, and said the issues weren’t from drivers, but their passengers engaging in alcohol-fuelled behaviour enroute to the festival.Sergeant Adam Elder said the influx of carloads from Gore, Invercargill and Dunedin - known as the ‘Around the Mountain’ trip, last year resulted in vandalism of the Millers Flat School, and the tavern.Regarding the NZ Merino Shears, the disorder was mostly focused around drinking in stationary vehicles in the carpark and broken glass.In 2024 there was also a serious assault with a weapon and an arson at Raes Junction, and Cr Sally Feinerman, said she had people urinate on her property who were quite intimidating.Senior Sergeant Clint Wright said they wanted to separate the blossom festival from the disorder, and incrementally they have seen a better result in recent years.Cr Martin McPherson, also the Blossom Festival organiser, said they had come a long way since police were making huge arrests at the actual event itself, “but by giving the police the tools we will see a decline in anti-social behaviour.”A report to the council from senior strategy advisor Alix Crosbie, said nine submissions were received in support of the extended alcohol restriction zone and six against.The Teviot Valley has been added to the Blossom Festival Temporary Alcohol Restriction Zone and that timeframe had been extended to include the Merino Shears the following weekend.

Investing in the share market is an integral and essential part of any long-term investment strategy, but it can feel like a roller coaster ride. While market volatility is inevitable and the very reason professional investors invest, there are strategies you can use to navigate these fluctuations and stay on track with your financial goal1. Stay the Course One of the most important principles of investing is to stick with your plan. Market downturns can be unsettling, but reacting impulsively to short-term market movements can be detrimental to your long-term financial health and put your ideal future at risk.Historical data shows that, without exception, markets recover over time, and those who remain invested are rewarded. Remember, you are investing in businesses that make up the market, and those businesses generate long-term profits and growth for shareholders, regardless of what the market does in the short term.For every seller, there is a willing buyer at the other end of the transaction. Market dips are opportunities for professional investors to take advantage of short-term volatility to enhance your longer-term goals and your ideal future.2. Rebalance Your PortfolioProfessional investors regularly rebalance your portfolio for you. Rebalancing involves selling assets that have performed well and buying those that have underperformed, to restore your portfolio to its target allocation.Think of this like stocking up on items you need that are on special at the supermarket. Another key point is that professional investors can also put items back on the shelf that no longer fit with your plans.Disciplined rebalancing is an opportunity to ensure your investment strategy continues to support your long-term goals and helps you live your ideal future.3. Focus on What You Can Control You cannot control market movements, but you can control how you react. Day-to-day market changes have little impact on a well-structured, long-term plan. This includes maintaining a disciplined savings plan and staying informed about how your investments contribute to your ideal future.Avoid making long-term investment decisions based solely on short-term news.Investing is a long-term journey that requires a clear strategy, patience and discipline. Focus on what you can control. Stay calm through the ups and downs of the markets, knowing that these present opportunities to help you achieve your long-term goals and support the life you want to live.

Former Alexandra resident Lisa Kelliher had the honour of representing the New Zealand Army in Belgium on Anzac Day, which had a very personal touch as well.Colonel Kelliher attended the Tyne Cot service and placed a poppy at the memorial of her great uncle Peter Flannery, of Poolburn - a rifleman who was killed in action in Pascendale in 1917.She first dreamed of joining the New Zealand Defence Force while at Dunstan High School, but applied to study accounting and mathematics at the University of Otago before deciding last minute to sit a test and join the armed forces. What made her trip to Belgium even more special this year, was she turned 50 the day after Anzac Day.Col Kelliher has been to South Sudan and Timor and was one of New Zealand’s most decorated soldiers for active service.Brought up at her family’s sheep and beef farm near Alexandra by parents George and Daphne, she is now based in Waiouru but came home to Central Otago at least once a year to visit her father and brother (Gary).Col Kelliher's great uncle was one of two brothers killed in the war from the Flannery family, Peter on the battlefield and Michael in hospital later on.

Super Smash cricket will be back in Alexandra this summer, and the Alexandra Blossom Festival has secured operational funding for 2025 to run its annual September event.Otago Cricket and the Alexandra Blossom Festival Committee were both successful through the promotions and events grants for 2025 from the Vincent Community Board yesterday.The board agreed to grant $10,000 towards Super Smash cricket played at Molyneux Park over summer, to cover scaffolding for sight screens and camera towers.The blossy fest committee was given reprieve from a Central Otago District Council staff recommendation in 2024 to become self sufficient.The event cost $231,000 to run and the committee has to contest the council’s promotional fund every year - of which there is only $50,000.Board chair Jayden Cromb said with grant policies now slightly changed, there was no longer a requirement for the blossy fest grant to become a “sinking lid,” however, it remained a ‘suggestion’ and a preference for the long term.Winter Stellar Charitable Trust was declined its $20,000 application for a Dark Sky Reserve, and staff would continue to work with the group to make its application stronger.Blossy fest committee treasurer Tim Coughlan spoke to the board about the annual festival, which he described as a “massive” promotional event for Alexandra, that made sense both economically and socially.“We want to keep it affordable to get everyone there.”But as a not for profit organisation, it was not sustainable, “and we do have some great sponsors but that can change anytime.”Last year a Ministry of Business and Innovation (MBEI) grant meant they could use 50% of that for marketing spend, and another submission had been made for this year.Tim said the volunteer hours put in behind the scenes was huge, “from the gatekeepers who come back every year… it has every generation involved.”Warren McSkimming of Otago Cricket spoke to the board and said the Super Smash would bring six games to Molyneux Park during December/January and it was broadcast to six different countries, with 50,000-70,000 viewers.“Support for the Sparks is massive and the people queue up to watch the full day.“It’s a large cost to bring this to Alexandra, but the community still love having that cricket in the town. People know cricket and have been brought up with it.”

Alexandra’s Nick Collier is still buzzing after strong results in the Canoe Slalom National Championships recently.The paddler secured the Ian Mercer Cup for winning the under 23 men’s K1 (solo kayak), and he earned a swathe of other strong results in the championships.Nick said this summer had been more focused on racing than training.“I’ve paddled in one competition in China, two in Australia, and five in New Zealand. The national championship wraps up the domestic season. Now I'm looking forward to competing at the senior world ups and U23 world championship in Europe, followed by the senior world championship in Sydney, Australia.”Alexandra’s Olympic gold medallist Finn Butcher edged out Australian Olympic friend and rival, Tim Anderson, to win the men's K1 in Tekapo.“Finn was dominant in the kayak cross leading up to the finals; however, he made a mistake, and placed fourth (third New Zealander) behind me, Jayden Parker from Hawkes Bay, and Tim Anderson. “On the back of Finn Butcher's Olympic success, placing above him and becoming the vice-national champion, has me pumped. Only one athlete from each country can attend the Olympics, so as the new Olympic cycle, Los Angeles 2028, begins, I'm happy to kick it off on a high note,” Nick said.Central Otago brothers and former Dunstan High School pupils Tom and Ollie Goldsmith competed at the championships.Tom suffered an injury in training just days before the event and had to pull out of the finals.Ollie Goldsmith came third in the U23 K1 men's and seventh in the men's kayak cross events. Nick said the camaraderie and competition amongst his fellow paddlers is partly what pushes him to succeed.“There's five of us that are neck and neck. That's Tom Goldsmith, [and three who represent Rotorua Awa Sports Club] Oliver Puchner, George Snook, and Michel Uhl. There's a great atmosphere between us."“We're friends on and off the water, except when it comes to kayak cross, then anyone is fair game.“The majority of us have competed alongside and against each other for over a decade now. Having this strong competition is excellent because we push each other to be better.”Nick (on left) alongside Olympic gold winner Finn Butcher. PHOTO: Supplied Nick was awarded the Glass Trophy for men’s C2 (two person canoe) for being the fastest overall with partner Lachie Harkness from the Hawke's Bay, the pair also scooped the Hoffman Cup for under 23 men’s C2.  In under 23 men’s C1 (single person canoe) he placed second, despite it being a secondary discipline for him.“K1 and kayak cross are absolutely my focus; however, the skillset required for C1 has so many crossover benefits to the other disciplines. So I've occasionally implemented C1 into my training program to enhance my performance,” Nick said.The Canoe Slalom New Zealand National Championships hit Tekapo over Easter weekend, hosted by the Central Otago Whitewater club.Paddlers from across the country and a few Australians including Kate Eckhardt, Tim Anderson, and Kayak Cross Olympic champion Noemie Fox turned up the heat on Tekapo’s stunning whitewater course.An aerial view of the Tekapo Whitewater course. PHOTO: SuppliedNick thanked volunteers who attended the national championships and Kellie and Roy Bailey and the Central Otago Whitewater Club for running a successful event. Read more: Locals smash Alexandra backyard ultra running event.Read more: Central Otago Sports Awards finalists announced.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes communities have been consulted on whether they want councils to continue discharging treated effluent into waterways.The Central Otago District Council also made a submission on new draft wastewater environmental standards released by Water Services Authority–Taumata Arowai. The public consultation period closed on April 24.Data released from the district council last week showed Alexandra’s wastewater treatment plant was discharging 1200 cubic metres of treated effluent into the Clutha River every day, compared to Queenstown’s 12,000-24,000cu/m into the Shotover.Cromwell operated under a discharge to water consent as well, but not directly into the Clutha River/Mata-Au, and only released 1700cu/m of its 4400cu/m -7500cu/m limit.Concerns have been raised by some local government leaders about the high levels of non-compliance across all councils - particularly in Queenstown, and questions have been asked about whether the issue was being taken seriously enough.But latest water quality monitoring downstream of the Shotover River that fed into the Kawarau and onto the Clutha, has showed decreasing levels of E.Coli from the emergency discharge consent - recently issued by the Otago Regional Council.Central Otago Deputy Mayor Neil Gillespie told the district council at its last meeting, that while it seemed a huge number from Queenstown, the dilution factor was going to be significant, and that was also backed by Three Waters group manager Julie Muir.The CODC operated seven reticulated waste water reticulated treatment plants (WWTP) under eleven main discharge consents - the Queenstown Lakes District Council had four, with the same number of discharge consents (two currently not active).Regional council staff gave a report for the past year across Waitaki, Clutha, Central Otago, Queenstown Lakes and Dunedin councils, which showed high levels of non-compliance across all districts.There were a total of 21 significant non-compliance, 11 moderate, and nine low risk during the reporting period.Clutha was high, along with Queenstown, but since January, Central Otago’s wastewater consents have been back on track.The QLDC recently admitted publicly it was continuing to risk overflows from its disposal field, which were becoming too much of a health risk.Discharging treated water into the Shotover River was the best outcome in the meantime, until a new disposal option could be found - up to 4 to 5 years.Dr Sara McFall of Taumata Arowai, said the proposed standards would require councils to consistently monitor and report on their wastewater performance in key areas. “The transparency this provides would enable operators and the sector to identify improvement opportunities and also ensure that communities are aware of the environmental impact of this infrastructure and any risks to public health.”Do you have a story idea? contact us [email protected]

A group of Central runners smashed out lap after lap in the first Alexandra Airport carousel backyard ultra running event recently.For Central’s Teresa Noble the goal of 100km had special meaning, she wanted to prove to herself and others that her hidden illness of Crohn’s disease, diagnosed nine years ago, wouldn’t stop her.She’s tried to complete 100km previously but had to withdraw at 75km in an Arrowtown event.Together with running buddy Joel Neilson she completed 16 laps (107km) at 1am on April 20, after starting the event at 9am the day before. Teresa said she was chuffed to bits to complete her goal and the “icing on the cake was doing another lap after”.Joel and Teresa with her t-shirt raising awareness about Crohn's disease. PHOTO: Alexandra Airport Backyard Ultra FacebookIt took months of preparation for the pair and they ran 100km each week as the event got closer.“We focused on running laps at the airport both day and night time, so we were comfortable. We also practiced what we were going to eat on training runs, and then had everything bagged up for each lap.”Having a home advantage, and a huge support crew of friends and family definitely helped the pair.“The Airport is fantastic for both running and biking. The course was awesome, and we would break it up in our heads.“It was so cool that there were planes buzzing around all day, and the beautiful colours of the autumn leaves were stunning. The course kept you interested in every lap.”The day got hotter and by the evening the weather turned, along with having to run with headlamps from lap 10, heavy rain began to fall. Crohn's is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects one in 500-700 of the population, symptoms can vary greatly and for sufferers there are times when symptoms flare up (relapse) and times when there are few or no symptoms (remission).Teresa said despite suffering from a challenging health condition it is important to keep moving for both your mental and physical well being.“It will be tough, but never be afraid to set a goal and accept that there will be failures on the way. This is all part of the journey, and will make you stronger....I promise. Do not let your condition define you.”A backyard ultra is a form of ultramarathon race where competitors must consecutively run a 6.71km course in less than one hour, every hour. After finishing each lap, the remaining time within the hour is used to recover and refuel for the next hour's race. The race finishes when one person completes one more lap than anyone else.The winner was Cromwell’s Kieran Phillip who completed 26 laps, second was Queenstown’s Jub Bryan (25 laps) and third was Ettrick’s Jonty McKinney (24 laps). Last woman standing was Alexandra’s Claudia Cooke who ran 18 laps of the course.   Two local teenage competitors who completed personal bests were Cromwell’s Nevaeh Reddy (six laps) and Alexandra’s Meia Wetherston (four laps).Local runners (from left) during the event Joel, Teresa and Claudia. PHOTO: Alexandra Airport Backyard Ultra FacebookThe Alexandra Airport Backyard Ultra was the brainchild of local trail runners Hannah Presswood and Tom Heath and there were 50 entrants from across the South Island.A portion of the entry fees was donated to Bowel Cancer New Zealand and I am Hope to support these charities with their work with youth mental health and bowel cancer patient support and advocacy.For more about trail running in Central, find the Alexandra Trail Running Group on Facebook, they meet each Tuesday and Thursday 5.30pm at Shaky Bridge.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

A Maniototo curling duo, Jess (27) and Ben Smith (25) are currently competing with the world's best in the World Mixed Doubles Championship in Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada.The siblings earned New Zealand's place in the field at December's world qualifying event in Scotland.The pair, who were raised in Naseby, trained in Calgary for a week with their Canadian coach Kimberly Tuck before heading to Fredericton. Kimberly and husband Wayne were Canadian mixed doubles champions in 2014 and played in the 2015 Winter Games NZ at Naseby."We’re very grateful to have Kim with us and excited to learn from her experience," said Ben."And Jess and I are very excited to finally get our shot at the World Mixed Doubles Championship."The siblings on the ice in a qualifying match against Turkey. PHOTO: Supplied This tournament is their third opportunity to play at the World Championship. They prioritised their careers in 2019, and the 2020 event was a casualty of Covid-19."We are aiming to do ourselves, our community, our sponsors and everyone who has supported us proud. We want to represent New Zealand Curling to the best of our ability."To date the Smiths have played three times in the world championships, with a loss to Estonia, a win against Spain and a loss to the United States. Their next match up is today (5am NZ time, on April 29) against Norway and then Japan at 1am on April 30. The venue in Fredericton is where Nat Thurlow and Hans Frauenlob earned a fifth placing for NZ in 2013.Ben in action in a match against Latvia last year. PHOTO: Supplied There are ten teams in two groups in the mixed doubles. The Smith pair are in group B together with Australia, Czech Republic, Spain, Estonia, Japan, Norway, Switzerland, Turkey, and the United States.Ben and Jess both play on national teams for curling and have represented NZ at World Championships and Pan Continental Championships.Ben is the third in a team with Anton Hood, Brett Sargon, Hunter Walker and Jarec Palanuik (alternate) and Jess is the skip for the women’s team of Courtney Smith, Bridget Becker, Holly Thompson and Natalie Thurlow (alternate).  The world senior championships are being held alongside the mixed doubles. The men’s team is Dave Watt, Iain Craig, Lorne DePape, Dean Fotti and Tom Telfer. They will be keen to emulate their success from the last time the world seniors were in Fredericton. Lorne DePape was a member of the 2013 team who bagged the silver medal, NZ’s best result at this event.Jo Olszewski, Sandra Thomas, Liz Matthews, Merran Anderson and Juliet Charko will fly the flag for the NZ Women. Liz Matthews also returns from the 2013 team.Both tournaments started on Saturday April 26, with the finals decided a week later. Stay up to date with results and updates on NZ Curling social media pages.Read more: Women’s curling lessons coming to Alex.Read more: Winter sports underway in mild conditions. Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

Queenstown Airport is launching its next major capital project, extending the terminal north to add 800m² of new office and operational space for Air New Zealand, Planebiz, and Aviation Security. Over 14 months, the project will deliver modern workspaces, upgraded security areas, and significant electrical improvements, including a new transformer and power centre.“This will give airline staff a much better work environment and improve operational efficiency,” says project manager Greg Emms.The $12 million project, scheduled for completion in early 2027, will also enhance the airport’s resilience. “Queenstown Airport is an essential community asset, and we need to ensure our criticalinfrastructure is robust,” Emms adds.Meanwhile, $10 million is being invested in seismic strengthening of the terminal, including steelwork, bracing, and reinforced columns. Work is underway and will continue at night for the next 17 months to improve safety and earthquake preparedness.“This seismic strengthening project underscores Queenstown Airport’s commitment to the safety of our passengers, staff, and wider community,” says Chief Operating Officer Todd Grace.*Please note the image does not show the Airport Emergency Service base beside the tower

Next month Central women can try curling, and learn from one of the nation’s best. Ice master John Campbell will run sessions and his daughter Natalie Thurlow will attend some days and play in the Wednesday league after the introductory month. Becks resident Natalie is a six-time New Zealand women's curling champion, a two-time NZ mixed doubles champion and a NZ Curling representative.She first started curling on the outdoor rink in Alexandra as a 13 year old. “We practiced outdoors at night, in the freezing cold and I probably only carried on for a start because Dad wanted me to. “Luckily I did, as it has opened up so many amazing opportunities in my life to travel, compete and make friends,” Nat said.Her reason for coaching was she loved to see the sport grow, and the rinks flourish, she said.“Curling is a sport for everyone.”Ice rink manager Bill Roxburgh said curling is a fun activity and indoor curling doesn’t need a lot of strength. “We have young school groups, seniors and have had people in wheelchairs play. Coaches Bruce and John are on hand to show new groups how to play as part of coming along.”The four Wednesday morning sessions are a chance for individuals to try the sport and join a group to play, they start on May 21, and there is a $5 charge per session. If demand warrants it there will be a Woman’s Wednesday league, from June 18, at a discounted rate. Bill said after the introductory lessons participants can relax in the warm lounge and have a coffee afterwards. “After the four introduction sessions we will help form teams to continue in their own league. “Our social league on Thursday nights has 42 teams of four… and a lot of women help make up these social teams, so [there is] another progression from learning.” If you are keen on trying curling bring along warm clothing as cool and sturdy gym shoes.For more information contact [email protected] or call 03 448 8599.Have a story to share?Contact [email protected]

When 12-year-old George Fisher got first place at the North Island secondary schools mountain bike competition he was given a certificate but not the first-place medal.The medal was passed to the next person instead, because George was homeschooled.It was standard practice according to School Sport New Zealand rules, but a group of parents want to change that - saying it was not fair that they pay the entry fee and were considered fulltime students by the Ministry of Education.Home School Sports Association chairperson Mel Ewart said it happened more than people realised."It's sort of a hidden secret in sporting circles that in student sports, homeschool students at the secondary age level aren't allowed to compete."She said her daughter had been affected by the rule.'My daughter used to do team sailing when we lived in Marlborough and she was able to compete in silver fleet but not go through to gold fleet if their team had qualified, it affects kids at all levels."One of the reasons she was given as to why homeschool students could not collect a medal or stand on the podium was because they had an uneven ability to train, she said."One of the myths that we keep encountering is that homeschooled students have an unfair advantage because they could train all day and it's just unrealistic."What parent is actually going to think that it's sensible even that their kid just trains all day and doesn't prepare for everything else in life?"She said the rules were disrespectful to homeschooled children."My own kids, they play in the youth orchestra, my daughter went off to the Model UN she's just been selected as a youth MP, these kids aren't excluded from the rest of everyday life but they are excluded from student sports."It stops them from being able to play with their friends and peers because they're friends with school students."Nowhere else would it be considered okay to exclude a small group of people because of how they were educated, she said."If we say to Pete Burling 'oh sorry no you can participate in the America's Cup, but you guys can't compete' that would be shocking but apparently it's not shocking for schools for student sports."She said the reasons for the rules were flimsy and did not make sense."They can train all day they have the opportunity to choose when to play sports but for team sports that's pretty unrealistic. Schools have sporting academies, there's even a school in Palmerston North that's been set up with the character of high-performance sports."When you look at it from a different perspective there's plenty of advantages that school children have that homeschooled children don't have."School Sport New Zealand were undergoing a regulations review, she said."They do it every year notably we weren't invited and we only found out by chance. We put in a late response which they have thankfully accepted that they basically have said they're all about schools, they're not."At the end of the day is sport about the participant or the schools that oversee the students? Our argument is that all students in New Zealand all Kiwi kids who are student aged should be allowed to participate in student sports with their friends and peers."School Sports NZ said HESSA members may participate and medal in more than half of their sanctioned events on the SSNZ calendar.Home educated students may not medal in Championship tiered events as they were not a member of a school - which it defined as having a Ministry of Education number.It said special exemption requests were approved last year for HESSA members at a Cup and Carnival level - with recognition given where appropriate.It said it will be consulting with schools, sports and HESSA as part of a comprehensive review of its constitution, membership structure, and eligibility regulations over the coming weeks.

Winter sports across Central Otago are underway, with traditional games such as rugby, hockey, netball and football still attracting strong numbers every weekend.Primary and secondary schools will start their winter ice activities this week, with instructors teaching curling, ice hockey and figure skating, in Alexandra. The Maniototo Adventure Park will also offer lessons across the different codes in the July school holidays on its natural outdoor rink.Central Otago Junior football kicked off on Saturday, with games around the region, the women’s division started at the start of April, and the Central Lakes Football League began in mid-March with two divisions and 16 teams across Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago.Central Otago premier rugby has been underway for a month, and the junior rugby season started with the annual Alexandra 7s tournament in early April.The Alexandra netball courts will be full every Saturday from this coming weekend, with hundreds of players from across Central Otago from five to senior level.Alexandra IceInline opened on Friday night - the first time in April under its new roof built in 2024, and the indoor curling rink next door had a free ‘Have a Go Day’ on Sunday to encourage more players.The squash season is building up with pre-season games now leading into tournaments, and juniors wanting to be involved in Term 2 are invited to come along to the Alexandra club on Sunday afternoons.If you have an interesting sport or sportsperson story, then contact us [email protected]

As we continue to advance into 2025, one trend stands out prominently: the conversation around generational differences in the workplace is shifting. Instead of focusing on age or background, the emphasis must be on hiring the right candidate based on their skills, values, qualifications and experience. While skills can be taught, trained or learned, instilling values and achieving cultural fit is considerably more challenging. Therefore, developing a measurable scoring system during recruitment can be a transformative approach.Creating a Measurable Scoring SystemMany hiring managers may wonder “How can we implement a scoring system without it feeling arbitrary?” The answer lies in its ability to streamline the hiring process by cutting through disagreements and guiding decision-making. A structured scoring system ensures alignment among hiring teams by providing a clear framework for evaluating candidates.To create a scoring system, begin by identifying key competencies that are vital for the role. For instance, if team-building skills are essential, you might consider asking prospective candidates: “Can you share an example of how you brought a team together to overcome a challenge? What actions did you take, and what was the result?”You can develop a scoring scale from 1 to 5, where 5 signifies the best possible response. A candidate who responds with, “I conduct regular team meetings,” could earn a score of 2 or 3; while it shows initiative, it may not comprehensively address the question. Conversely, a strong answer might be: “I spent time understanding each team member, observed the group dynamics, and sought their input before crafting a plan. Initially difficult, this process built trust and facilitated honest feedback, allowing us to improve collaboration and communication, ultimately leading to enhanced efficiency and profitability.” This response could receive a score of 5.Implementing this structured approach ensures the scores generated are substantive and relevant, helping to clarify who would best integrate into your team.The Importance of Reference ChecksWhile interviews are vital in the hiring process, they do not provide the complete picture. Reference checks are just as crucial; they can either reinforce your choice or raise potential concerns. These checks offer additional insights into a candidate’s previous performance, work ethic, and collaborative abilities. In many cases, reference checks might be the final puzzle piece that helps solidify your hiring decision.Valuing All Ages and ExperiencesIt is imperative to recognise the value that diverse experiences bring to the workplace. Age should never be a barrier to employment. Whether a candidate is just entering the job market or brings a wealth of industry experience, each individual contributes unique perspectives, knowledge, and potential mentorship. A workplace that values diversity across ages cultivates a mix of innovation and wisdom, leading to a stronger, more cohesive team.Partner with EASI NZ for Effective RecruitmentNavigating the hiring process can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially if you're new to it. At EASI NZ, we understand the intricacies of recruitment, and we are here to support you every step of the way. From creating tailored interview guides and conducting comprehensive reference checks to crafting engaging job advertisements, we have the tools and expertise to assist you in attracting the best candidates.Additionally, we offer regular workshops focused on Recruitment and Onboarding, encompassing the entire hiring process. Our mission is to help businesses thrive by aligning their recruitment strategies with company values, ensuring new hires not only possess the necessary qualifications but also align seamlessly with your team culture.Don't hesitate to reach out for a free, friendly chat and discover how EASI NZ can support you in making informed hiring decisions that will benefit your business. Together, we can build teams that excel, fostering a positive workplace culture while driving your business forward.By following this comprehensive approach to recruitment, you're more than just filling positions—you're building a foundation for long-term success. Let EASI NZ be your partner in cultivating a thriving workforce that embodies skill, values, and the right fit.