Southland

Southland District Council has decided that there will be no formal consultation on its Annual Plan for 2025/2026. This Annual Plan is based on year two of the Long Term Plan 2024-2034 (LTP34). As there are no significant or material differences from what was budgeted for year two of

Southland District Council has launched its consultation phase for Local Water Done Well (LWDW). District residents are encouraged to submit their feedback with consultation open until 7 May 2025. Councils are required to decide on how water services will be delivered in their area, consult on at least two options,

* Southland mayor Rob Scott confirmed plans to stand again in October's election. * Some councillors remain undecided while others confirmed they will step down. * Nominations open on 4 July, with voting scheduled for 11 October. Southland councillors have described their current term as “challenging,” with many still undecided about

* SH1 Tay Street eastbound in Invercargill closed overnight for asphalt renewal on 23 February. * Multiple Southland highways undergoing resurfacing, pavement repairs, and third-party works with traffic management. * Road closures scheduled for Pyramid Waiparu Road and Nightcaps Opio Road for culvert replacement. Road users in Invercargill and Southland should prepare for

* Three men were rescued after failing to reach their pick-up point on the Waikaia River, near Piano Flat. * A helicopter located them, with one man suffering a leg injury near the river’s edge. * Emergency teams and volunteers played a crucial role in the successful rescue effort. A dramatic rescue

* Homelessness in Te Anau is rising, with no long-term support options available * Lack of affordable homes and increasing short-term rentals add to the housing problem * Community feedback highlights social housing needs and potential solutions for future growth Homelessness in Te Anau is on the rise, with no long-term support systems

Police arrested five individuals in Tuatapere yesterday after reports of vehicle thefts in the area. Three stolen vehicles were recovered, originating from Invercargill, Orepuki, and Tuatapere. Those apprehended include a 21-year-old man, an 18-year-old man, and an 18-year-old woman. They have been charged with unlawfully taking a motor vehicle. Additionally,

* Coastguard Riverton's new boat will enhance safety and rescue capabilities significantly. * The advanced vessel features cutting-edge navigation, night vision, and thermal imaging equipment. * Local community and donors played a key role in funding the modern rescue boat. Coastguard Riverton is preparing to welcome a new state-of-the-art rescue boat,