Here we are at the end of 2025 — a time to pause, reflect, and remember some local legends who didn’t make it through to Christmas or the New Year. In no particular order, we honour them here. Bruce Chilton QSM Firstly, a man of music. Bruce Chilton QSM passed

The Learning Differences Aotearoa Trust is winding up after seven years, but is gifting some of its resources to the Southland community. A limited number of printed ‘Growing Stars’ books are available for collection at Young Reflections - but there are also e-books and videos that parents, educators and adult

Two men were rescued over the weekend after their boat broke down in a remote area south of Milford Sound in Fiordland. The pair had been on a fishing and diving trip when their 6.4-metre recreational boat suffered mechanical failure on Saturday night, leaving them stranded. Using their iPhone

PowerNet has announced the appointment of Adrian Nadan as its new General Manager of Networks. With more than 18 years of engineering and leadership experience, Adrian joins the Invercargill-based company after a successful tenure at Counties Energy. At Counties Energy, Adrian held a number of senior leadership positions and managed

Southland has become the first region in New Zealand to launch a mobile lifejacket library, aimed at keeping boaties safe on the water this summer. The initiative is a partnership between Environment Southland’s maritime team and ACC. Regional Harbourmaster Lyndon Cleaver said this mobile option sets Southland apart from

Dunedin is mourning the sudden loss of former Mayor Jules Radich, who passed away while serving as a City Councillor. Mayor Sophie has paid tribute to her predecessor, saying, “I’m shocked and deeply saddened by the sudden passing of former Mayor Jules Radich. Jules was a much appreciated, valued

A man has been charged with theft after nine veteran war plaques were taken from St John Cemetery in Invercargill between late October and late November. Invercargill Police confirmed a 44-year-old man is facing charges following the removal of memorial plaques, four of which were taken from the graves of

The Government has announced major changes to New Zealand’s planning and local government systems, promising a simpler, faster and more cost-effective way to manage land use and environmental protections. RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop and Local Government Minister Simon Watts say the changes will benefit ratepayers by reducing complexity