News

* Shane Reti demoted as Health Minister, falling from fourth to ninth in rankings. * Simeon Brown takes over health portfolio, aiming to improve healthcare access for Kiwis. * Prime Minister Luxon focuses on economic growth with several other cabinet role changes. In a significant cabinet reshuffle, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has demoted

* Police carried out search warrants following a Southland street racing incident. * Two vehicles were impounded, and two men are set to appear in court. * Police urge the public to report street racing to help address the issue. Police in Southland have taken action following an illegal street racing incident, impounding

* Donald Trump begins second term with sweeping changes targeting immigration and federal policies. * Inaugural speech announces strict definitions of gender and end to diversity programmes. * Events moved indoors due to frigid weather as Trump pledges to “rescue America.” Donald Trump has been sworn in as the 47th President of the

Invercargill driver Alex Crosbie had mixed fortunes as he contested Round 2 of the 2025 Castrol Toyota Formula Regional Oceania Championship (CTFROC) at Hampton Downs Motorsport Park in North Waikato over the weekend. Driving his Castrol Toyota FT-60, Crosbie showed good pace in Friday’s practice sessions, making improvements within

* Cyclists pursued a thief who stole a $15,000 road racing bike. * The thief was caught within three blocks and arrested by Police. * The owner raced in the finals the next day with minor bike damage. A group of elite cyclists attending a national cycling event in Invercargill found themselves

* Matt Russell praises committee for visiting regional aged care providers in New Zealand. * Presbyterian Support Southland faces funding shortfalls, rising care needs, and aging facilities. * Growing dementia care demands prompt calls for major changes in the aged care sector. Presbyterian Support Southland (PSS) Chief Executive Matt Russell expressed his appreciation

* Gibbston Valley hosts its last summer concert with 14,000 attendees enjoying perfect weather. * Cold Chisel, Icehouse, Bic Runga, and Everclear headline an unforgettable day of live music. * Greenstone Entertainment searches for a new Queenstown venue for future summer concerts. The final chapter of the Summer Concert at Gibbston Valley

* Southland median home prices hit record highs, with strong demand driving growth. * New listings in Southland rose 7.3%, contrasting with the national decline in listings. * Balanced market conditions in Southland offer steady opportunities for buyers and sellers. Southland’s property market finished 2024 on a high note, standing out