Community

Invercargill is fast becoming the pipe band capital of New Zealand, hosting the New Zealand champs again in early March and with most number of teams entered. NOTE: Street march is 9am Saturday, starting from the Water tower on Doon Street turn left into Gala Street and then right towards

* Meridian and NZAS have agreed on a 50MW power reduction for winter 2025. * The reduction will take effect from 10 March to 31 August 2025. * Meridian may call for further demand reductions in April 2026. Meridian Energy Limited and New Zealand Aluminium Smelters Limited (NZAS) have reached an agreement to

A new initiative is giving Southland children a healthier reward for their sporting efforts. The Manawa Tītī award replaces traditional ‘player of the day’ certificates with a free pass to Splash Palace, encouraging active play beyond the sports field. Created in partnership with Invercargill sports organisations, the award is supported

* A $50,000 donation from Hugo Charitable Trust helped Presbyterian Support Southland meet its funding goal. * The $400,000 project expands the Iona dementia facility with six new psychogeriatric beds. * The upgrade will provide better care for Southland’s elderly with high-level dementia needs. A major funding milestone has been

* Number 10 Southland Youth One Stop Shop will receive direct funding from Health New Zealand. * The $91,000 contract ensures the service can continue supporting young people in Invercargill. * Efforts are underway to establish a long-term sustainable funding model for the service. Number 10 Southland Youth One Stop Shop has

* Helen Robinson is leading commercial and partnership efforts at Museum of Southland. * She brings experience in care, construction, and community-focused projects to her new role. * The museum aims to be a space for connection, history, and regional pride. Helen Robinson has stepped into the role of Commercial and Partnerships team

* The Southern Charity Hospital, inspired by Blair Vining, will officially open on 28 February. * A community celebration will honour supporters and showcase the hospital’s impact on southern healthcare. * The hospital will begin with colonoscopies, addressing urgent needs in bowel cancer diagnosis. The long-awaited Southern Charity Hospital, the vision of

* Omaui Camp will host a public open day on Saturday, 22nd February 2025. * New walking track, outdoor activities, and environmental education resources will be showcased. * The Rotary Club of Invercargill played a key role in the camp’s redevelopment. Omaui Camp is set to welcome the community for an open