* New scheme will let trusted builders and plumbers sign off their own simple work * Faster inspection targets aim to reduce costly delays for building projects across New Zealand * Changes expected to deliver thousands of homes annually without lengthy approval bottlenecks The Government has announced major changes to speed up home

* Nargis Girhotra will represent Southland youth at the 2025 Youth Parliament event * She brings wide community experience from leadership roles and volunteer activities * Her advocacy focuses on mental health, education, and climate change issues affecting youth Nargis Girhotra, a dedicated student leader from Invercargill, is preparing to represent her region

A person has sadly died following a workplace incident at the Te Anau transfer station on the Manapouri-Te Anau Highway late Friday (3rd May) afternoon. Emergency services were called to the site at around 3.30pm, but the person tragically died at the scene. Police have confirmed the death will

* Sir Bob Jones passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family after a brief illness * He built a vast property empire and founded the New Zealand Party to challenge government * Sir Bob was a lifelong boxing fan, commentator, and published author of twenty six books Sir Bob Jones, a

Brenny & The Bushwhackers have maroon blood pulsing in their veins. Their Southland-centric sound—a fusion of bluegrass, a dash of country, and a whack of Irish folk with an undercurrent of rural punk—gives voice to the region’s battlers and storytellers. Recorded at SIT Sounds’ state-of-the-art studio in

Environment Southland chief executive Wilma Falconer has announced she will retire at the end of August 2025, bringing to a close nearly six years with the regional council, including three years in the top job. “Leading Environment Southland has been a privilege and immensely rewarding for me, both for the

PowerNet has announced the appointment of Paul Blue as its new Chief Executive, following an extensive recruitment process. Blue, who is currently General Manager Network at Counties Energy, will take over the leadership role from 28 July 2025. Originally from Southland, Blue brings more than two decades of experience across

* Suzanne Prentice recognised for outstanding contributions to music, charity work and community leadership * Neville Gordon Phillips awarded for decades of service to firefighting and ice sports development * Investiture ceremonies at Government House continue until early May celebrating achievements across sectors Two Southland locals were recognised for their exceptional service yesterday