News Desk

Repeat violent and sexual offenders are on notice as the Coalition Government brings back the Three Strikes regime. From today, anyone convicted of one of 42 serious violent or sexual offences will face steadily harsher sentences, a move Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee says answers public calls for safer streets

* New system blends government records with yearly surveys to deliver faster, cheaper population statistics. * Monthly inflation index from 2027 aims to sharpen decisions on rates, benefits, and budgets nationwide. * Minister says overhaul will restore confidence in Stats NZ by “measuring what matters” for every community. New Zealanders have filled out

Southland signwriting firm Creation Signs has clinched gold at the New Zealand Sign and Display Association Awards. Manager Riki Shuttleworth said the honour, announced in Nelson on Saturday night, was testament to his team’s passion for the industry. “We might be located at the bottom of New Zealand but

* Bluff event returns with music, market stalls, and a dramatic fire and light show * Gore’s glowing celebration includes performers, learning experiences and indoor spaces for warmth * Both events are free and designed for all ages to mark Matariki in style Bluff and Gore are preparing to light up the

* Police inspected 54 vehicles and found serious faults in over one third of them * Operation involved multiple road safety teams working across Friday and Saturday nights * Police urge the public to report antisocial driving behaviour as soon as possible Southern District Police cracked down on illegal and dangerous driving in

* Invercargill Council hosting session for those considering standing in this year’s elections * Briefing covers nominations, campaigning, election rules and roles of elected representatives * Nominations open on 4 July and voting runs from 9 September to 11 October Thinking of running for Council but unsure what it really involves? Invercargill

* Drainage and roadworks will start early to finish within one day, avoiding longer disruption * Traffic lights and stop/go management will create delays on both sides of the Aparima Bridge * Drivers should expect queues and allow extra time for school and work travel Drivers in Riverton and surrounding areas are

Independent economist Tony Alexander is back with the latest on the property market, interest rates, and the state of investment property. Why are the South Island’s private debt levels looking lower than the North? What happened to the housing market recovery that some anticipated late last year? Why does