Opinion

There is a national story, and then there is a Southland story. The Budget announcements might not have everyone around the country jumping for joy. There is still plenty of conversation around caution, and businesses waiting for things to improve before making decisions. But honestly, Southland has never really operated

A self-certification scheme, allowing skilled plumbers and drainlayers to sign off their own work, will provide huge benefits for Southlanders. The Government is progressing the "Self-certification by Plumbers and Drainlayers Bill" to put responsibility into trusted tradies' hands and has recently decided to expand it to cover

Economic and employment benefits are set to flow in the South with the recent approval of two fast-track projects. The Fast Track process is about cutting through unnecessary delays to unlock the projects that will provide benefits to the people of the South, giving the certainty and momentum needed to

From biscuits to the battlezone: what childhood beliefs teach us about conflict. Conflict’s a funny old thing, isn’t it? Whether it’s the small, everyday frustrations—laundry left on the floor, a teaspoon put back the wrong way in the drawer—or something deeper, like a strained relationship,

New move-on orders are another tool for Invercargill police as they work to keep Invercargill streets safe. Announced last month, these orders will give police an extra tool to deal with disorderly behaviour in public places. This is something that has been concerning Invercargill retailers and I am hopeful police

Lately, with so many couples in my age group splitting up left, right, and centre, I keep hearing that line from Tina Turner’s What’s Love Got to Do with It in my head and wondering… Is it actually love that makes relationships last? Valentine’s Day has never

Tourism is a significant part of Southland’s economy, leveraging the region’s natural attractions and famous southern hospitality. And while our two national parks and five Great Walks are incredible attractions, the growing range of Southland events is also becoming important in encouraging visitors South. The 38th annual Edendale

November 7 has been announced as the date of the 2026 election. Announcing the date early in the New Year allows Southlanders to focus on the future. It also gives markets, businesses and investors certainty for the year to come. But before we look too far ahead, it’s also