Business

* Fonterra has started construction on a UHT cream plant in Edendale, Southland. * The $150 million project will create 70 jobs and double capacity by 2030. * Production will meet growing Asian demand, starting with 50 million litres annually. Construction has officially begun at Fonterra’s new ultra-high temperature (UHT) cream plant

The Commerce Commission has released a draft decision that could dramatically reduce the fees businesses pay for accepting Visa and Mastercard payments, potentially saving New Zealanders over $260 million annually. “These fees are passed on to consumers through the cost of goods and services, and surcharges,” the Commerce Commission stated.

* Aparima College students won top honours at the national Young Enterprise Scheme awards. * Their business, Treet Yourself Contracting, impressed with its focus on sustainability and innovation. * The YES programme fosters entrepreneurship in secondary schools, connecting students with business leaders. Students from Aparima College in Riverton have claimed the top prize

It’s been a great year for Mandy Jordan from The Mortgage Supply Co - with the team clocking over 100 contracts in 2024 and the years not over. Business has been strong because Southlanders are “amazing and resilient” and know that home ownership is a long term game, she

* Fonterra raises FY25 Farmgate Milk Price midpoint to $10 per kgMS, citing strong demand. * Strategic investments include new UHT cream plant and protein production upgrades in New Zealand. * Q1 profit of $263 million reported, with focus on high-value products and operational efficiency. Fonterra Co-operative Group has raised the forecast Farmgate

In its first week, the newly launched Red Tape tipline received over 300 reports from New Zealanders frustrated by excessive regulations, according to Regulation Minister Hon David Seymour. “Red tape wastes valuable time, money and sanity,” Seymour said. “I am not surprised to see an outpouring of discontent from Kiwis

* Invercargill Airport won an award for managing Milford Aerodrome with innovative safety solutions. * Key upgrades included enhanced safety markings, walkways, and adherence to Civil Aviation Authority standards. * The project ensures Milford Aerodrome supports tourism while maintaining world-class safety and sustainability. Invercargill Airport Limited (IAL) has earned a prestigious award for

* Sophie Steel wins Southern Apprentice of the Year at 2024 HITO ceremony in Christchurch. * She receives a $2,500 prize and represents Southland's hairdressing industry on a national platform. * Steel also attended the Davines Pro Worldwide Hair Tour in Berlin this October. Invercargill hairdresser Sophie Steel was honoured