* NIWA could acquire MetService to create a more efficient weather forecasting system. * The integration aims to combine forecasting science with hydrology and coastal hazard expertise. * Officials will provide further implementation details to support this streamlined approach. The New Zealand Government is considering a significant overhaul of the country's

Short hail storm on Thursday night.

* Invercargill City Council staff may receive five weeks' leave after four years' service. * Southland District Council offers negotiated leave agreements exceeding the four-week minimum entitlement. * Environment Southland and Gore District Council have unique systems for managing annual leave entitlements. Southern councils have shared their annual leave policies, with

* The Warehouse Group reports a $54.2 million loss, down from a $29.8 million profit. * Retail sales fell across the board, with The Warehouse sales down 5.3% to $1.8 billion. * Management acknowledges missteps and pledges to focus on core retail strengths moving forward. The Warehouse Group has

* Public consultation gathered 280 submissions on Southland's new museum budget shortfall. * Four budget options were proposed, including design changes and delayed construction. * Council hearings and deliberations on budget plans are scheduled for October. Public consultation on the final budget for Southland’s new museum has concluded, with Invercargill

An Invercargill Lotto player is celebrating after winning $10,509 in tonight’s live Lotto draw. The lucky Second Division ticket was sold at New World Elles Road, bringing some local excitement to the Southland town. Another player from the Kāpiti Coast won Powerball Second Division, taking home a total