* Southland youth invited to free event with activities, workshops, and cultural experiences. * Free buses available from Winton, Gore, and Invercargill with limited spots for attendees. * Event features multiple zones including sports, beauty, technology, and Maori culture. The popular Rangatahi Zone festival is returning for its third year, offering Southland youth

* Discover Southland’s farming history at the Thornbury Vintage Tractor & Implement Club’s new centre. * View rare historical machinery, including the world’s only operational Garrett Steam Engine. * The centre is open Sundays and public holidays, with free entry for under 16s. The Thornbury Vintage Tractor & Implement Club

ILT has a rich history of fostering Invercargill’s growth and vibrancy since its inception in 1956. That year, we gifted the beloved Peter Pan statue to Queens Park for the city’s centennial and made our first significant contribution to community funding with the Conon Street learners' pool.

* Colac Bay's iconic surfer statue may be replaced due to ongoing maintenance challenges. * The Southland District Council pledged $35,000 as a loan for the project’s costs. * Fundraising efforts will help cover the remaining costs for a new, more durable replica. Colac Bay, a small coastal town

* Several Southland roads closed or affected due to flooding and hazardous conditions. * Motorists urged to exercise caution, with signage in place on affected routes. * Updated information on closures and flooding available through local council websites. Update: 12 noon Saturday 5 October: NZTA Road Update: #3 CLOSED - Ferry Road and

Invercargill MP Penny Simmonds expressed her approval of an additional $50,000 in Government support announced today for farmers in Southland and parts of Otago. Related: Road Closures And Flooding Updates In Southland “This funding will assist farmers and rural communities in our region, through organisations such as the Southland

* Rugby Park renamed Bekhuis Park to celebrate Josh Bekhuis’ record-breaking 144th game for Southland. * The name change acknowledges his contributions to Southland rugby and support from his family. * Stags play North Harbour at Bekhuis Park this Saturday, marking the end of the season. Rugby Park in Invercargill has been temporarily

* Heavy Rain Watch issued for Inland Clutha and Southland from Thursday noon to Friday noon. * Rivers in the region are above normal levels, with no immediate signs of rising further. * Farmers are urged to reach out for support due to ongoing adverse weather conditions. The MetService has issued a Heavy