* Budget 2025 brings KiwiSaver benefits to younger workers and boosts family income support. * New investment tax write-offs and healthcare improvements aim to grow jobs and lift wages. * High-income earners and young jobseekers lose out due to tighter benefit and KiwiSaver rules. Budget 2025 has delivered a mixed bag, offering gains

Sad to report the passing of a true Southland legend – Jamie Searle. Jamie passed away on Thursday after suffering from an aggressive form of stomach cancer and at far too young an age. For those not in the know, Jamie was the long-time racing scribe for The Southland Times and

* SIT Nurse Educators Aica Rivero and Stacey Porter received top honours at recent awards. * Rivero’s research work has influenced clinical practice and inspired nursing students and colleagues. * Porter’s teaching approach was praised for creativity, student mentorship and long-lasting workforce impact. Two Nurse Educators from the Southern Institute of

Garth Bray cracks open Rod Duke's playbook for weathering an economic downturn—and capitalising on an international trade standoff. The Briscoe Group CEO reveals how his buyers have used ongoing tariff tensions to find negotiating opportunities with Chinese suppliers. In this episode, we find out: why is Briscoe

* Top cyclists from across New Zealand will race through Invercargill’s city streets in January 2026 * The event returns following the success of the 2025 championships held in Southland * Weekend to include road and track cycling events offering action for all cycling fans Invercargill will again host one of New

* Telford launched a new scholarship to support students in the Diploma in Agriculture programme * First recipient Katelin Perkins plans to use the funds to help cover accommodation costs * The award recognises academic success, farming commitment, and community involvement Telford student Katelin (Kate) Perkins has become the first recipient of the

* Legislation aims to return education decisions to regional polytechnics and industry leaders * Industry Skills Boards to replace Workforce Development Councils from January 2026 * Te Pūkenga to be phased out as changes roll out over two years The government has started a major overhaul of New Zealand’s vocational education and

Southland District Council is closing the Manapouri Hall temporarily while asbestos found on the outside wall of the hall is cleaned up. Council chief executive Cameron McIntosh said the hall was being prepared for painting when contractors noticed what they thought was asbestos on the cladding under the windows. "