* Government reveals plan to simplify local councils and boost decision-making through new structures * Mayors could replace regional councillors under a new collaborative regional board model * Public consultation on reforms is open now, with final proposal expected by March 2026 The Government has outlined a major shake-up of local government, revealing

Police investigating the death of Jock David Grant Davies., who died in a hunting incident near Lords River, Stewart Island, have arrested one person. A 39-year-old Ashburton man is to appear in the Invercargill District Court on 16 December 2025 on a charge of careless use of a firearm causing

Invercargill MP Penny Simmonds said it was significant to have the Minister of Agriculture and Trade Todd McClay in our province today. “It’s been a great opportunity for the minister to meet with farmers and rural businesses to understand their needs and hear their concerns. “The rural sector is

Invercargill Airport is set to begin a major runway upgrade in mid-January 2026, aimed at strengthening the safety and long-term resilience of its air services. The project is part of a regular 15-year renewal cycle and will help future-proof the region’s critical air transport links. To reduce disruption to

Southland’s Brendon Leitch ended his Lamborghini Super Trofeo season on a high, securing two commanding victories in Europe’s final round at Misano. Racing as a guest entry alongside Australian driver Nicolas Stati, the pair delivered standout performances across both races. It was the first time Leitch and Stati

Police continue to investigate a violent assault in Edendale, where a man was seriously injured after being attacked late on Saturday night, 15 November. The incident happened around 10.55pm near the corner of Melvin Street and Turner Street. According to Detective Sergeant Brian McKinney from Gore CIB, the victim

Members of the Bluff Community Board unanimously agreed to reappoint long-standing Chairperson Ray Fife to the role at its inaugural meeting for the 2025–2028 term. At their meeting in Bluff last night, members Jo Eruera, Frazer Murdoch, Haylee Simeon, and Justin Sutherland voted for Ray Fife to again be

The Telford equine team made a strong debut at the prestigious Royal Canterbury A&P Show held from 13–15 November in Christchurch. This was the first time the team, made up of nine students, two tutors, and two support staff, had competed at the event – and they certainly