Community

* SEPSCT to acquire full stakes in OtagoNet, Lakeland Network, and PowerNet operations. * Deal strengthens local control of infrastructure for Southland and Otago communities. * Operations will remain unchanged, ensuring continuity for regional electricity consumers. Southland Power Trust (SEPSCT) has announced its plan to take full ownership of OtagoNet Joint Venture, Lakeland

* The $87 million museum project officially began with a ceremonial sod-turning event. * Community support drove the council’s decision to fund and prioritise the museum build. * The museum will combine tactile and immersive digital exhibits, opening in late 2026. The next phase of work on the Museum of Southland was

* Southern delegation delivered a petition with 34,000 signatures to Parliament today. * Campaign leaders urge the Government to fulfil promises for the new hospital build. * Retrofitting or downscaling the hospital would increase costs and delay completion. The Save Our Southern Hospital campaign made a bold statement in Wellington today, as

The Government has announced a significant investment of over $21 million into St John, aimed at boosting the country’s emergency services. Associate Minister of Health Casey Costello emphasised the importance of this funding in maintaining critical health services during challenging times. “St John provides an essential service by ensuring

Invercargill Licensing Trust chief executive Chris Ramsay said $9 million in donations/community returns were at risk if the bill to repeal trading privileges was successful. But he doubts that will happen because some of the members of ACT MP Simon Court’s community in West Auckland tried to initiate

There will be trains, boats and RC buggies of all shapes and sizes at this weekend’s annual Southland Society of Model Engineers ‘Great Little Train Show.’ The club’s major fundraiser for the year at the Southland Badminton Hall attracts up to 5000 people, and the ride on trains

* Invercargill City Council confirms commitment to Museum of Southland with full project scope. * Council decision means total investment rises to $87 million, requiring a 1.54% rates increase. * Museum of Southland set to open in late 2026, offering a cultural hub. Invercargill City Council has decided to move ahead with

Continuing to support the Dunedin Hospital rebuild and then lobbying for regional facilities still made sense to Invercargill Mayor Nobby Clark. Invercargill, Queenstown and Dunstan hospitals all needed expansion, in the south they were 40 to 60 beds short, there were only 17 to accommodate Queenstown and a further 24