* Southern region awarded $350,000 from Government to support off-peak tourism growth. * Initiative targets Australian travellers with focus on local culture, nature and unique experiences. * Local businesses and tourism operators expected to benefit from increased international visitors. A $350,000 funding boost is on its way to the lower South

* Simeon Brown criticised Health NZ for engaging in advocacy unrelated to healthcare delivery. * Brown cited examples including fast food opposition, raffle bans, and transport policy. * The Health Minister urged Health NZ to focus on improving immunisation rates and care access. New Zealand’s Minister of Health, Simeon Brown, has criticised

Hawthorndale Care Village $39 million aged care facility was officially opened today, (Friday 21st March) celebrating the realisation of a long-held vision. The first residents will be welcomed in May and Hawthorndale Care Village Trust chair Frank O’Boyle expressed his pride in the project, saying, “Hawthorndale Care Village is

* A third young person has now been charged over a violent Invercargill store robbery. * Police located and arrested the youth without incident earlier today. * Investigations are ongoing and further arrests are still expected. A third young person has appeared in court following an aggravated robbery at a convenience store in

Invercargill’s Splash Palace leisure pool is set to reopen earlier than expected following the completion of essential maintenance work. The pool, which closed on 3 March for the installation of new foam tile flooring, welcomed visitors back on Saturday 22 March — two days earlier than scheduled. Invercargill City Council

• Ten Torpedo7 stores will be rebranded as outlet shops focusing on discounted outdoor gear • Two more store closures confirmed as the retailer tightens its physical store footprint • Online sales and flagship stores will remain key priorities for the brand going forward Torpedo7 is undergoing major changes under its new owners,

* Two youths were arrested after a reported early morning burglary in Bluff * Police Dog Unit helped locate both offenders after they fled the scene on foot * One youth will face Youth Court while the other is referred to Youth Aid According to Senior Sergeant Mel Robertson, Police were called to

Margot Hishon has been appointed as the new Chair of Community Trust South. With extensive governance experience, Mrs Hishon previously held the role between 2016 and 2018 and has a strong understanding of the Trust’s operations and the communities it supports. Community Trust South Chief Executive Jackie Flutey confirmed