Community

There were fancy cars, flags flying, buggies, marching girls, medieval sword fighters and the Invercargill Mayor dressed as the ‘Cat in the Hat,’ but with elephant pants. Related: Discover the Magic: Your Guide to the 2024 Christmas Lights Captain Sparrow was there and a man inside a sputnik, along with

* Police issued 38 infringement notices during a Southland operation against antisocial drivers. * Eleven vehicles were taken off the roads due to serious safety issues. * Authorities urge public reporting to help combat illegal street racing and unsafe driving. Southland Police ramped up their efforts to tackle illegal street racing and antisocial

* New Riverton Aparima playground and pump track enhance Taramea Bay redevelopment efforts. * Community feedback shaped the design, ensuring inclusivity and long-term usability. * Future stages include youth zones, planting, and improved infrastructure for Taramea Bay. The Riverton Aparima playground has officially opened to the public, marking the latest milestone in the

* Southland Santa Parade alters its route to avoid roadworks in this year’s circuit. * Longstanding manager transitions to trustee as new committee members join the team. * Parade features floats, entertainment, and food, attracting up to 20,000 attendees yearly. The Southland Santa parade has a new committee and will be

The annual Christmas In The Bluff Gala Day at the Bluff Oyster Festival Site is always hugely popular but this year when it takes place on Sunday 8 December there will be another great addition to the activities available. Related: Plenty Of Festive Fun Planned For Bluff Your Corps, whose

* Southland Woodworkers Guild showcases handcrafted wooden toys and gifts in annual exhibition. * Event runs across multiple dates, featuring free entry at Mary Street clubrooms. * Visitors can explore woodworking skills, toy assembly and buy handcrafted Christmas gifts. The Southland Woodworkers Guild has transformed into a hive of activity this festive season,

* Sixty-five Invercargill students receive ILT scholarships for tertiary studies in 2025. * Each scholarship provides $2,000 annually, supporting academic growth over three years. * ILT celebrates funding over 900 scholarships, valuing more than $5 million to date. Sixty-five Invercargill students have been awarded ILT Tertiary Scholarships, recognising their potential and supporting

* Motupōhue Adventure Park opened with 27 trails inspired by local heritage and biodiversity. * Trails designed to attract outdoor enthusiasts and boost Bluff’s community and economy. * New tracks enhance year-round access and promote Bluff as a major adventure destination. The much-anticipated Motupōhue Adventure Park officially opened over the weekend, welcoming