News

* Wool will become the preferred choice in government construction and refurbishment from 1 July * Ministers say move supports farmers, boosts jobs, and strengthens sustainable building practices * Agencies must explain if wool isn’t used and report decisions annually to MBIE The New Zealand Government has confirmed that from 1 July,

Otautau local Andre Bekhuis has been formally recognised for his tireless work and dedication to his community, receiving a Community Service Award from Southland District Council and the Wallace Takitimu Community Board. The award was presented on Saturday, honouring Bekhuis for his many leadership roles and hands-on contributions over the

* Invercargill player wins big with Second Division Lotto ticket from Saturday's draw * Six Kiwis nationwide claimed $45,083 each in Second Division Lotto prizes * Dunedin ticket holder also won Powerball Second Division totalling $43,167 in winnings Another Invercargill Lotto player is celebrating a lucky win, after pocketing

Kawasaki has introduced a futuristic twist to outdoor adventure with CORLEO, a hydrogen-powered four-legged robotic vehicle unveiled at the Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025. This concept machine, inspired by the movement of animals, is built for off-road travel and aims to change how people explore rugged terrain. Related: Tesla To Mass Produce

• A $4 fee may be introduced to help fund Ulva Island wharf repairs • The wharf is the only access point and is in serious disrepair • Ulva Island has recently dealt with rat incursions despite predator-free status Visitors to the pest-free sanctuary of Ulva Island may soon need to pay a

The annual Pork Pie Charity Run will be heading south on Wednesday as it finishes another successful New Zealand tour. Organisers Keri and Kevin Hollamby and Peter Bjarnesen said the convoy of 50 was heading across to the West Coast on Monday and then down into Central Otago, over to

* Power was restored after a duck caused damage by flying into power lines * Initial reports mistakenly believed the outage was due to a fallen power pole * PowerNet teams worked quickly to restore power across Invercargill and surrounding areas PowerNet has confirmed that power has been fully restored after a surprising

• Government will allow larger granny flats to be built without resource or building consents • Rule change aims to reduce red tape, lower costs, and support multigenerational family living • Reforms to land acquisition and building materials access also introduced to boost housing supply The Government is making it easier for New