Community

* Michael McLees was posthumously honoured for decades of dedicated community service in Blackmount * He gave 38 years to the local fire group and helped establish key community assets * Southland leaders praised his selfless service and lasting impact on local morale Michael McLees, a well-known figure in the Blackmount community, has

Mairi Dickson’s lifelong commitment to her community was recognised this week with a Community Service Award from the Southland District Council and the Ardlussa Community Board. The honour was presented during a special event at the Waikaia Hotel on Wednesday night. Southland Mayor Rob Scott said he was proud

Presbyterian Support Southland (PSS) is about to begin a major redevelopment of Peacehaven Retirement Village in Invercargill, with construction work set to start on Monday, 23 June. All planning, design, approvals and funding are now in place for the long-term project. The development will include 38 modern two-bedroom units and

* 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

The Rotary Club of Invercargill will mark its 44th Book Sale over King’s Birthday weekend in 2025, continuing a long-standing tradition that has helped raise more than $1 million for local causes. This year’s sale will be held once again at the Scottish Hall, making it the second

The residents of Coopers Creek are still not happy, eight months on from when they had their licences to occupy the land renewed at Sandy Point for another 21 years. Several residents spoke in council on Tuesday, including Kath and Brian McDonagh, on their submissions to the Sandy Point Management

Rugby Southland has confirmed the popular ILT Fireworks Spectacular will return in 2025, lighting up the sky after the SBS Bank Southland Stags’ home game against Manawatū at Rugby Park Stadium. Scheduled for Friday, August 15, the match begins at 7.10pm, with the fireworks set to launch around 8.

Southland District Council is closing the Manapouri Hall temporarily while asbestos found on the outside wall of the hall is cleaned up. Council chief executive Cameron McIntosh said the hall was being prepared for painting when contractors noticed what they thought was asbestos on the cladding under the windows. "