Southland

* SH1 Tay Street eastbound in Invercargill closed overnight for asphalt renewal on 23 February. * Multiple Southland highways undergoing resurfacing, pavement repairs, and third-party works with traffic management. * Road closures scheduled for Pyramid Waiparu Road and Nightcaps Opio Road for culvert replacement. Road users in Invercargill and Southland should prepare for

* Three men were rescued after failing to reach their pick-up point on the Waikaia River, near Piano Flat. * A helicopter located them, with one man suffering a leg injury near the river’s edge. * Emergency teams and volunteers played a crucial role in the successful rescue effort. A dramatic rescue

* Homelessness in Te Anau is rising, with no long-term support options available * Lack of affordable homes and increasing short-term rentals add to the housing problem * Community feedback highlights social housing needs and potential solutions for future growth Homelessness in Te Anau is on the rise, with no long-term support systems

Police arrested five individuals in Tuatapere yesterday after reports of vehicle thefts in the area. Three stolen vehicles were recovered, originating from Invercargill, Orepuki, and Tuatapere. Those apprehended include a 21-year-old man, an 18-year-old man, and an 18-year-old woman. They have been charged with unlawfully taking a motor vehicle. Additionally,

* Coastguard Riverton's new boat will enhance safety and rescue capabilities significantly. * The advanced vessel features cutting-edge navigation, night vision, and thermal imaging equipment. * Local community and donors played a key role in funding the modern rescue boat. Coastguard Riverton is preparing to welcome a new state-of-the-art rescue boat,

* New Riverton Aparima playground and pump track enhance Taramea Bay redevelopment efforts. * Community feedback shaped the design, ensuring inclusivity and long-term usability. * Future stages include youth zones, planting, and improved infrastructure for Taramea Bay. The Riverton Aparima playground has officially opened to the public, marking the latest milestone in the

Environment Southland has issued a warning after detecting toxic algae in the Waiau River near the Excelsior Creek inflow. While algae naturally occur in waterways, certain types can produce harmful toxins, especially during stable river flows and fine weather. Toxic algae can appear as dark green or brown slime on

* Coalition Government invests $2.2 million to develop Southland’s aquaculture centre of excellence. * Ocean Beach expansion includes farming pods, training facilities, and workforce accommodation. * Project aligns with New Zealand's $3 billion aquaculture sales target by 2035. Ocean Beach is celebrating a $2.2 million loan from the