Mike Sanford

Environment Southland has identified toxic algae in the Aparima River at Thornbury, raising concerns for public safety and animal health in the area. The discovery follows routine monitoring, which found conditions suitable for algae growth in the river. Earlier in the week algae was reported in the Mataura river. Algae

Police searching for a man missing in Lake Manapouri have recovered a body, bringing a week-long operation to a close. The search began on Saturday 14 March at about 6.15pm, when Police were notified that a man had fallen overboard from a vessel roughly one kilometre offshore. Emergency services

Datagrid New Zealand has signed a major long-term energy agreement with Mercury, securing a 140 megawatt Power Purchase Option Agreement to support its growing artificial intelligence infrastructure. The 15-year deal is among the largest commercial energy arrangements in the country dedicated to high-performance computing and AI operations. The agreement provides

Health services across New Zealand are set for a significant shift, with decision making moving closer to local communities from 1 July. The changes are being welcomed by Invercargill MP Penny Simmonds, who says they will help ensure healthcare better reflects the needs of regions such as Southland. Under the

The Invercargill and wider Southland property market is continuing to show strong signs of resilience, with new data and local insights pointing to growing confidence among buyers and steady upward momentum in values. According to the latest Home Value Index, property values in Invercargill rose by 1.1% in February,

Police are reminding Clutha and Southland farmers and rural property owners to stay vigilant following a recent spate of burglaries across the district. Incidents have been reported in several locations, including Owaka, Tahakopa Valley, and Clinton, raising concerns about the security of rural properties. Authorities say burglars are often opportunistic,

Environment Southland has confirmed the presence of toxic algae in the Mataura River, specifically downstream of the Riversdale bridge. The discovery follows routine monitoring, which identified concerning levels of algae that may pose risks to both people and animals using the river. Algae also at Aparima river. Algae are a

Motorists across Invercargill and Southland are advised to plan ahead this week, with several road closures, water shutdowns and highway maintenance works taking place across the region. Invercargill City Council Works Gala Street – Road Closure Drivers should be aware that Gala Street will be closed as part of upcoming works.