Mike Sanford

* Government aims to speed up approval of agricultural and horticultural products to boost productivity. * Review recommends halving approval times, potentially saving $272 million over 20 years. * Industry welcomes changes but urges swift action to rebuild confidence in the system. The Government has announced plans to cut red tape for agricultural

* Helen Robinson is leading commercial and partnership efforts at Museum of Southland. * She brings experience in care, construction, and community-focused projects to her new role. * The museum aims to be a space for connection, history, and regional pride. Helen Robinson has stepped into the role of Commercial and Partnerships team

* 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

* Government proposes reducing Warrant of Fitness checks for vintage vehicles and private motorhomes to yearly. * Southlanders, known for their passion for classic vehicles, will welcome the proposed changes. * Public consultation on the proposed changes runs from 24 February to 4 April 2025. The Government is seeking public input on a

* The Southern Charity Hospital, inspired by Blair Vining, will officially open on 28 February. * A community celebration will honour supporters and showcase the hospital’s impact on southern healthcare. * The hospital will begin with colonoscopies, addressing urgent needs in bowel cancer diagnosis. The long-awaited Southern Charity Hospital, the vision of

* Omaui Camp will host a public open day on Saturday, 22nd February 2025. * New walking track, outdoor activities, and environmental education resources will be showcased. * The Rotary Club of Invercargill played a key role in the camp’s redevelopment. Omaui Camp is set to welcome the community for an open

* Fonterra expects FY25 earnings to be in the upper half of its forecast range. * The Co-op has raised its milk collection forecast to 1,510 million kgMS. * A strong interim dividend is anticipated, supported by solid demand for key products. Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd has provided an update on its

* Reserve Bank lowers official cash rate by 50 basis points to 3.75%. * Banks reduce floating mortgage rates, with mixed changes to fixed rates. * Economic growth expected to recover in 2025 despite global uncertainty. The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) has cut the official cash rate (OCR) by 50