Southland farmers are grappling with an unusually wet spring, which has brought higher lamb death rates and low feed supplies. Persistent rain since August has made it difficult to manage paddocks, sow spring crops, and care for livestock. Jason Herrick, president of Southland’s Federated Farmers, described the situation as

* Nela Fletcher’s exhibition supports the Otago & Southland Cancer Society with proceeds from art sales. * Retired surgeon Murray Pfeifer will give talks, adding medical insights to the art experience. * The exhibition includes various art mediums and raises awareness about breast cancer diagnosis. Nela Fletcher’s new exhibition Monstrosity of

* Waituna Lagoon will be mechanically opened to prevent ecological damage and assist the community. * High water levels have been affecting local roads, paddocks, and farming activities for weeks. * Lagoon opening aims to flush nutrients and sediment, resetting the environment for summer. Environment Southland has decided to use its emergency powers

* Government announces stricter rules for public servants working remotely, focusing on office presence. * New guidelines emphasise that working from home requires monitoring and must be agreed upon. * Businesses in Central Wellington may welcome the shift as they struggle with fewer customers. The Government is cracking down on public servants working

* Deaf and disabled communities demand Invercargill appoint a full-time sign language interpreter. * Lack of interpreter causes hardship, affecting hospital visits, events, and daily communication. * Recommendations include creating a disability portfolio and advocating for better inclusion policies. Invercargill’s deaf community is calling for the appointment of a full-time sign language

test for whats on

* James McLeay reflects on a year of impressive achievements in middle-distance running. * Representing New Zealand, McLeay had standout performances in Australia, Kenya, and Peru. * A sub-four-minute mile is next on McLeay's list, with races lined up this summer. James McLeay, a talented young middle-distance runner from Southland, has

* Kiwifruit exports reached $3.1 billion, a 20 percent rise from August 2023. * Gold kiwifruit exports grew 24 percent, driven by increased quantity sold internationally. * Green kiwifruit exports saw nearly 10 percent growth, due to rising prices. Kiwifruit exports from New Zealand reached an all-time high of $3.1 billion