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

* Crash on State Highway 6 closes road between Orion and Flora Roads. * Emergency crews work to rescue two people trapped in vehicles. * Motorists warned to steer clear of the crash site. UPDATE: 4:50pm. SH6 Makarewa is now OPEN State Highway 6 in Makarewa is currently closed between Orion Road

* Southland Woodworkers Guild showcases handcrafted wooden toys and gifts in annual exhibition. * Event runs across multiple dates, featuring free entry at Mary Street clubrooms. * Visitors can explore woodworking skills, toy assembly and buy handcrafted Christmas gifts. The Southland Woodworkers Guild has transformed into a hive of activity this festive season,

* Sophie Steel wins Southern Apprentice of the Year at 2024 HITO ceremony in Christchurch. * She receives a $2,500 prize and represents Southland's hairdressing industry on a national platform. * Steel also attended the Davines Pro Worldwide Hair Tour in Berlin this October. Invercargill hairdresser Sophie Steel was honoured

* Sixty-five Invercargill students receive ILT scholarships for tertiary studies in 2025. * Each scholarship provides $2,000 annually, supporting academic growth over three years. * ILT celebrates funding over 900 scholarships, valuing more than $5 million to date. Sixty-five Invercargill students have been awarded ILT Tertiary Scholarships, recognising their potential and supporting

* Motupōhue Adventure Park opened with 27 trails inspired by local heritage and biodiversity. * Trails designed to attract outdoor enthusiasts and boost Bluff’s community and economy. * New tracks enhance year-round access and promote Bluff as a major adventure destination. The much-anticipated Motupōhue Adventure Park officially opened over the weekend, welcoming

ACT MP Simon Court is making at a trip south to meet Invercargill Mayor Nobby Clark on December 17, after backlash about his proposed private members bill. Invercargill City councillors also voted yesterday to support the Invercargill Licensing Trust’s concept of continuing with its trading privileges, and oppose the

* ILT and St John celebrate 80 AEDs installed across Invercargill. * Ascot Four Square’s new AED enhances community access and health shuttle support. * Ongoing partnership ensures AED maintenance and offers public awareness training. The installation of the 80th Automated External Defibrillator (AED) in Invercargill highlights a major milestone in a