Mike Sanford

* Shane Reti demoted as Health Minister, falling from fourth to ninth in rankings. * Simeon Brown takes over health portfolio, aiming to improve healthcare access for Kiwis. * Prime Minister Luxon focuses on economic growth with several other cabinet role changes. In a significant cabinet reshuffle, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has demoted

* Police carried out search warrants following a Southland street racing incident. * Two vehicles were impounded, and two men are set to appear in court. * Police urge the public to report street racing to help address the issue. Police in Southland have taken action following an illegal street racing incident, impounding

* Donald Trump begins second term with sweeping changes targeting immigration and federal policies. * Inaugural speech announces strict definitions of gender and end to diversity programmes. * Events moved indoors due to frigid weather as Trump pledges to “rescue America.” Donald Trump has been sworn in as the 47th President of the

* Cyclists pursued a thief who stole a $15,000 road racing bike. * The thief was caught within three blocks and arrested by Police. * The owner raced in the finals the next day with minor bike damage. A group of elite cyclists attending a national cycling event in Invercargill found themselves

* Southland median home prices hit record highs, with strong demand driving growth. * New listings in Southland rose 7.3%, contrasting with the national decline in listings. * Balanced market conditions in Southland offer steady opportunities for buyers and sellers. Southland’s property market finished 2024 on a high note, standing out

* Invercargill-based studio receives $40,000 CODE grant for developing a 2D action RPG. * Game development team includes SIT staff, graduates, and a current student. * Funding will create a prototype to secure investment for full game development. An Invercargill studio with close ties to the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) has

* A solar farm could reduce Stewart Island’s diesel use by up to 75%. * Council aims to implement renewable energy for reliable, affordable electricity and economic growth. * The project includes staged solar and wind energy solutions to benefit the island’s future. Stewart Island is set to take a significant

* Toxic algae identified in Waihopai River, posing risks to people and animals. * Residents urged to avoid algae and monitor other regional waterways for contamination. * Waiau River alert remains active near Excelsior Creek despite removal in Kennington. Toxic algae have been detected in the Waihopai River upstream of Queen’s Drive,