News

TSB is selling itself to Heartland Bank for $620 million in a deal that would create New Zealand's largest regional bank. The conditional agreement would see Heartland Group buy all of TSB's shares from the Toi Foundation to create TSB Heartland Bank. The combined bank would

Trust and confidence in local police is rating the second highest across the country, according to Southland Area Commander Mike Bowman. Speaking to the Invercargill City Council last week, Inspector Bowman told councillors the new targets set by New Zealand Police had the south tracking at 74% - with the

New government funding for wilding conifers will not solve Southland's problems. Environment Southland biosecurity team leader plants Jolie Hazley welcomed the $79 million nationwide boost announced this week but warned it had limits at a committee meeting last Wednesday. "I'm not expecting that any new

Environment Southland is buying hybrid utes despite one breaking down during testing in remote hill country. Last week a committee approved replacing up to four vehicles with three BYD Shark 6 plug-in hybrids, even after a test drive went wrong. Hydrology specialist Michael McDonald was testing the ute when its

Simon Thompson has won the top prize at the country music awards that matter. The Senior MLT NZ Gold Guitar Award went to Thompson over King's Birthday Weekend, along with $5,000 cash, a fully produced single, and a trip to the 2027 Tamworth Country Music Festival in

Cormac Buchanan has his speed back. The Southland grand prix racer finished within a second of the lead in every session at Mugello, proving his recovery from the injuries that have plagued his Moto3 World Championship campaign. "The weekend overall was a really positive one, especially with my feeling

The Southland Sharks extended their winning streak with a 99-89 victory over Otago in Dunedin on Sunday night. Caleb Asberry led the charge with 29 points, nine rebounds and four assists as the Sharks withstood an early barrage from the home side to claim their latest road win. The Nuggets

The following people have been recognised with awards in the King's Birthday Honours 2026. The New Zealand Order of Merit DNZM To be Dames Companion of the said Order: Mrs Susan Jean Hassall, ONZM, JP - For services to education Professor Elizabeth Mary Rata - For services to