The Central Otago District Council (CODC) has approved the next stages of detailed design for the Cromwell Town Centre project.In the publicly excluded part of the meeting on April 24, the council met to discuss whether to progress with further analysis and development of preferred options for the town centre project to be consulted on in the 2025-34 Long-term Plan (LTP).After discussion, it was agreed that a detailed breakdown and further investigation of the costs would be required to enable the council to make a decision on the preferred options, to be consulted on in the LTP, which would be discussed at the council meeting on May 29.Funding of $665,000 for further detailed investigation was in the 2023-24 budget and is to be carried forward for the 2024-25 Annual Plan, currently out for public consultation. It was also agreed that a report on where the governance oversight sat - either the CODC or community board - should also go to the May meeting.The Cromwell Town Centre project is part of the Cromwell Masterplan, that started in 2018, which approved the process, funding and procurement approach for the project. Four workstreams were identified - the spatial framework, the Cromwell Memorial Hall, which was now underway, the town centre and the civic facilities.The Cromwell Masterplan was extensively consulted on, and funding included in the 2021-31 LTP. However, as a result of the current economic climate, and the cost increase in building the town hall, the council made the decision to consult with the community on the town centre through the upcoming 2025-34 LTP.In a separate resolution, the council also made a decision regarding the funding of any property purchases for the Cromwell Town Centre project. It was agreed that negotiations for property purchases should cease until the various options for the town centre were worked through and approved by council, and that those options would form part of the LTP.

Motorists can expect short delays when travelling along SH6 between Cromwell and Queenstown over the coming weeks. NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) will start its autumn rockfall safety programme on the Nevis Bluff on Monday, May 13, with the expectation to have the work completed by Friday, June 14. NZTA maintenance and contract manager in Central Otago Peter Standring said people using the section of SH6 between Cromwell and Queenstown are advised to build in extra time of about 10 minutes as delays will be inevitable while the work is carried out. Crews will be working on SH6 between 8am and 5pm on weekdays, subject to weather conditions. “We know these delays can be frustrating, but we’re asking people to be patient and to understand that they are necessary to ensure the safety of road users, which is our number one concern.”Peter said there would also be one or two days where closures of up to an hour will be necessary for blasting work. An aerial view of the stretch of SH6 where delays can be expected. PHOTO: SuppliedIt is anticipated that these will be occurring towards the end of May, early June. Road users will be given as much advance notice about the blast closure days and times as possible, with electronic signs advertising these longer closures a day or two ahead. People travelling to Queenstown Airport will need to bear these longer delays in mind. The Nevis Bluff is about half-way between Cromwell and Queenstown – 25 minutes from Cromwell, 35 minutes from Queenstown.NZTA thanks everyone for their patience and for taking care while this important safety work is completed leading into winter. To stay up to date on roads daily click in The Central App weather and reports section under Roads

Help is at hand for people across Central who want to navigate their cell phone with more ease.Central Otago Reap is running a series of free digital phone courses, providing people with guidance and handy hints on how to use their phone, no matter whether it's an iPhone or Android.The course, held over five weeks for two hours at a time, is limited to four people so digital tutor Sonia Keogh can provide one-on-one time with each participant.Sonia said the course was developed by Age Concern during Covid-19 lockdowns, when they realised so many people didn’t know how to use their cell phone.She said for many people it was their only form of contact during that time, and while their phones had the capability of connecting them with the outside world, particularly with the likes of video calls, many didn’t know how to access the function.Taking part in a recent Roxburgh digital phone course are Geraldine Cook (left) and Arthur Moore. PHOTO: SuppliedSonia is currently hosting two courses - one in Alexandra and one in Roxburgh, with more regularly becoming available.At the end of each course, an extra session is hosted about online safety, which someone from Central Otago Budgeting Services also attends to assist with questions around topics like online banking.The final session on online safety is open to as many people that will fit in the room.Sonia said the courses are growing in popularity, but the key was to make people aware that the free course was available.For more information about other upcoming digital phone courses phone CO Reap on 448 6115.    CO Reap also has a range of other courses on offer, which can be viewed on their website.

The small town of Ophir is on the map again this NZ Music Month, as all things musical are celebrated across the country.Country-folk singer songwriter Tess Liautaud is playing a gig at Ophir’s historic Peace Memorial Hall celebrating the release of her new single ‘Gold Digger’ on May 17.She’s playing 12 shows across New Zealand together with her band members Adam Hattaway, Frankie Daly, Elmore Jones and Michael Kime. The tour is visiting some other small South Island places, including Arrowtown, Wānaka, Oamaru, Banks Peninsula, Lyttelton, Mapua and Golden Bay. Tess is originally from Paris, but is now living in Dunedin. Her newly released single was written in Otago and has been described as having a “through-line; honest truth cloaked in humorous word play and a simple melody” by website Under the Radar.Watch the video of the Gold Digger on YouTube. It was filmed in Otira and Arthur’s Pass in January.Gold Digger Tour poster. PHOTO: Supplied NZ Music Month launched in 1997 as New Zealand Music Week, in 2001 it moved to a month-long format. Visit the NZ Music Month website for more information.In 2023 Ophir’s Peace Memorial Hall hosted another pair of country musicians during May, kiwi musicians Kerryn Fields (Te Kuiti) and Matt Joe Gow (Dunedin). 

The newest addition to the Clyde Coastguard fleet was welcomed over the weekend at an official ceremony.Coastguard Clyde President James Robinson said they were excited to welcome Clyde Rescue II (CRII) to the fleet.“One of the features that is of particular interest is its easy on and off load capabilities, and improved communication capabilities to overcome signal disruptions in the terrain.“Our new vessel represents not only an upgrade in our equipment, but also our investment in our volunteers and setting up the unit for future success.” Built by KwikKraft Boats NZ (a division of Icon Custom Boats), this 7m Hamilton jet-powered rescue vessel is a major lift in the Coastguard Clyde unit’s capability to serve all water users and visitors around Lake Dunstan and the wider Central region.The new addition to the fleet is the CRII. PHOTO: Supplied It replaces the current 5.8m Naiad jet ‘Clyde Coastguard Rescue’ vessel, which has a long history of service with Coastguard, beginning its life as a surf rescue vessel in 1992 with Coastguard Sumner in Christchurch. While the old vessel served the unit well, the crew needed a vessel that had an enclosed cabin for crew protection and more space to work with casualties. Volunteers like Barrie Wills, Colin Horsnell, and skippers Tony Smith and James Robinson, each with over 15 years of Coastguard service, played a key role in designing and fundraising for CRII. Support from Coastguard Tautiaki Moana, Lottery Grants Board, Central Lakes Trust, local sponsors, public contributions through Givealittle, and the unit’s own funds, has enabled the $500,000 project. Coastguard volunteer and cycling advocate Chris Foggin said it was a privilege to be the master of ceremonies and introduce guests Mayor Tim Cadogan, acting Coastguard New Zealand chief executive Matt Rae-Rankin, Coastguard Clyde president James Robinson, members of local iwi and Father Brendan Ward who officially blessed CRII.Coastguard Clyde’s work is diverse all year round; it can involve towing boats and stranded jet skis, river searches, or helping rescue cyclists injured on the region’s winding lakeside cycle trails. Clyde Rescue II is equipped with features to support volunteers in their lifesaving work, tailored to the unique landscape and accessibility requirements of the region. Features include jet-power, advanced electronic capabilities, including night vision navigation, GPS, and an upgraded radar and tracking system, ensuring precise navigation even in the most challenging conditions. CRII also has a specialised lowering bow door for seamless access and accommodating bikes or stretchers. Over 2022/23, Coastguard Clyde’s 13 volunteers contributed 1,379 hours, with 450 hours of practical training and 258 hours exclusively dedicated just to incidents.  

The word on the street is that using job titles or language like Superstar, Rockstar, Boy/Girl Friday, or Ninja in job advertisements may not be as effective nowadays when seeking candidates to join your team.It can say more about you than the potential candidates.And let's be honest, we all embody these qualities when we're in a fulfilling role, appreciated, and working at our very best ability!So here are some top tips for kicking off your recruitment campaign in the right vain!1. Grab Attention with an Engaging TitleThink creatively to capture the interest of your perfect candidate. What would make them pause and take notice? Consider what unique opportunities your position offers: flexible working hours, school hours, remote work, health insurance, training, and career development!2. Keep It Clear and ConciseIn a world of information overload, brevity is key.Write with clarity, using action verbs to make your ad easy to read. Trim unnecessary words and streamline your message, drawing from the job description – we all love a few bullet points! You should be able to easily condense all your details into 250 words.And to really kick your job listing up a notch, getting current employees involved adds that extra touch of authenticity.You may feel the need to include lots of details about your business but anyone worth their salt will go straight to your website and socials and find that information out for themselves.Additionally, if you include the hourly rate/salary range, you are going to get over 40% more engagement. People don’t enjoy ambiguity when it comes to money, so take the awkwardness out of those initial conversations. It will save a lot of backwards and forwards later in the recruitment process.3. Define Your Ideal CandidatePaint a clear picture of who you're looking for. Developing a "target candidate persona" helps you go beyond basic qualifications and envision the perfect fit for your team.Also, think about the kind of person you don't want to attract. If you need a strong leader, make that clear. If a nurturing vibe is what you need, then focus on that in your wording.4. Showcase Your Company's AppealHighlight what makes your company stand out from the competition. If you have company values that you put into action, then this is where you can really shine! Emphasise exciting projects, growth opportunities, and benefits. Let potential candidates see why joining your team is a game-changer for their career.5. Outline the Application ProcessMake the hiring process seamless and straightforward to encourage qualified candidates to apply. For instance, instead of a lengthy instruction, opt for a direct call to action like: "Send CV & cover letter to: [address]."You can also include a closing date for applications, but this might run the risk of discouraging a great applicant from applying if it’s a few days past. You can take advertisements down once you have decided to move forward to interviewing.Need some help?For guidance in recruitment and retention, your local specialist team EASI NZ are happy to help in all or any parts of the recruitment process. From developing job descriptions to reference checking, we are here for you! 

Freedom campers no longer appear to be causing issues in Central Otago over summer, and the council has deferred imposing a bylaw until April 2025.Under new legislation, people sleeping in vehicles that were not certified or self-contained were banned from freedom camping spots, but they could still live in a tent.Local authorities could diverge from the default position of the national rule by implementing freedom camping bylaws that permit freedom camping in non-self-contained vehicles in certain areas, or prohibit, or place restrictions on freedom camping in certain areas.Land Information New Zealand currently has designated the popular Lowburn and Jacksons sites as only for certified self-contained vehicles, but Bendigo and Champagne Gully were currently exempt.The sites around Lake Dunstan were becoming particularly congested several years ago and facilities overflowing, causing concerns for residents and others trying to use the areas recreationally. Many freedom campers were working in the area to pick fruit. Tim Cadogan told a council meeting last week, his phone wouldn’t stop ringing from people complaining about freedom campers when it first became an issue.The situation settled when Covid-19 disrupted overseas backpackers from coming into the country, but even though strong numbers of freedom campers had been noted again this summer, council staff reported few problems. 

The age-old skill of sewing is alive and well in Ophir, thanks to CO Reap’s popular series of classes.Seventeen women attended the first class of the six-week course at the Ophir Peace Memorial Hall on Wednesday, many with babies, ready to learn more tricks of the trade.Some came armed with clothing they wanted to mend, while others were keen to learn how to make a garment from scratch.The course was also helping to ease the burden as the cost of living increases, which has made buying new almost out of reach for some people.Everyone who registered for the course was also given the opportunity to start the class by making themselves a pin cushion.Course tutor Shona Bain was on hand to pass on her knowledge, along with several other helpers who had the skills to get the many participants on their way to making progress.Among the participants was Renee Matheson who joined the class to learn to sew like her mum.Her goal was to sew an apron for herself, followed by more for her children.Abi Book-Miller (left) receives some guidance from Bev Lawrence during the morning sewing session. PHOTO: The Central AppAbi Brook-Miller, who brought her nine-week-old baby, Ida, along to the course, was using it to enhance her existing sewing skills.“I thought it would be great so I could learn more techniques.”It was also an opportunity for her to get out of the house, she said.One of the group’s assistants, Bev Lawrence, was pleased to see so many young ones taking up the opportunity.“It’s wonderful to be with the young ones and keeping the skills going.”Shona was grateful to the women who joined her for the morning to assist, acknowledging the need for their support due to its popularity.“I needed my three ladies because they were busy.”The same course is also being offered in Cromwell this term.To find out more about the courses offered by CO Reap, visit their website.

Welcoming Communities and Business South are calling for applicants for the next leadership scholarships.Two Central Otago newcomers were awarded scholarships to attend the Business South Leadership Academy in 2023, the second year of the scholarship.Mactodd Lawyers property and commercial lawyer Caitlin Laurenson and C&R Insurance broker Dewald De Beer attended the Leadership Academy in Cromwell last November.This initiative is a partnership between Central Otago District Council’s (CODC) Welcoming Communities and Business South and aims to support newcomers in the business community. Caitlin, who moved to Cromwell in 2020, said the most useful part of the academy was learning that leadership styles are individual, and - as a result - she has signed up for the business mentor programme.She said she is “looking forward to implementing some of the tips and tricks for team building and engagement” within her workplace. Dewald, who moved to Central Otago with his family from South Africa in 2017, reflected that learning about the variety of leadership approaches in business was invaluable, with every speaker providing meaningful information to apply to his own business development.The pair encourage newcomers to consider applying for future scholarships. Cailtin said the speakers were “inspiring”, and it was an amazing networking opportunity. Dewald said newcomers may feel vulnerable, but by being “bold” and stepping out into the business community, newcomers will be able to “share and connect . . . and ask for help”.The next leadership academy will take place in Cromwell on Wednesdays, from September 4 - 25, 2024. Applications close 30 June 2024.For more information contact Welcoming Communities officer [email protected].

I enjoy reading “Today in History” in the paper in the morning and a line in it on Friday caught my eye. It stated that on 3 May 1887 a new bridge across the Molyneux (Clutha) River at Roxburgh was opened. It was reference to the Molyneux River that caught my eye. My dad grew up in Alexandra around the time of the Great Depression and later, as I grew up in Balclutha, he would sometimes mention how the Clutha as we knew it was often called the Molyneux when he was a kid, and he often wondered whether back in the day if it was Molyneux upstream and Clutha down a bit, or how the name came about to go from one to the other. The piece about the bridge got my memory and my inquisitive brain going.  Back when dad was wondering about it, the internet didn’t exist and the Encyclopaedia Brittanica at home was no use, but now there is endless resource on the subject at the click of a few keys. The 1966 edition of the Encyclopaedia of New Zealand states “The early whalers and settlers of South Otago called the river and the district the Molyneux, and the name survived well into the gold mining era. It has often been stated that Cook gave the name Molyneux to the river, but this is incorrect for he never saw it. What he did name was Molyneux Harbour which was probably in the vicinity of Waikawa. The correct name is the Clutha, first suggested in 1846 when the Scottish emigrants were preparing to settle in Otago”.  The venerable volume misses the rather important Port Molyneux which stood, and to a lesser extend still stands, on Molyneux Bay near Kaka Point and was at the time it was going gangbusters at the mouth of the river. However, three disasters ended its journey to city status; the great flood of 1878 changed the course of the river, a devastating explosion in the Kaitangata coal mine killed 34 people six months later, impacting on a major customer of the port, and just months after that the railway between Balclutha and Dunedin opened, ensuring that port’s supremacy. The 1966 entry suggesting “Molyneux” was a South Otago name also belies the recollection of my dad that the river was called the Molyneux inland when he was a lad, and of course the name persists here today with Molyneux Park in Alexandra and Molyneux Avenue in Cromwell carrying the legacy. Wikipedia clears this up though, stating “During New Zealand's early colonial history it was officially known as the Molyneux from below the junction with the Kawarau River at Cromwell”. That at least answers part of my dad’s question, being that the change in name was chronological rather than geographical. So, when did the use of “Molyneux” stop? I have searched Papers Past and the last entry, other than Letters to the Editor arguing the point, delightfully demonstrates the muddle the whole story is, where a report from 11 August 1950 states that the dredge owned by the “The Clutha Dredging Company” was moving to the other side of the “Molyneux River”! That is not the end of the story though, because today, neither Clutha nor Molyneux is the official, legal name of the river; which is “the Clutha River / Mata-au” by virtue of the Ngāi Tahu Claims Settlement Act 1998, quite rightly reflecting what is truly the original name for this marvelous body of water.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand (Fenz) has moved Central Otago from a prohibited fire season to restricted.The recent move to restricted limitations means fires now require a permit before they can be lit.Previously, Central was in a prohibited fire season due to the particularly dry conditions, which meant there was a total ban on open-air fires, and all previously granted fire permits were suspended.Fenz is also revoking the restricted fire season in the Queenstown Lakes fire zone from 8am today (Sunday), until further notice.It means people in the zone no longer need to have a fire permit by Fenz to light a fire outdoors.Declaring the fire season change, Otago District manager Phil Marsh said recent rain and cooler autumn temperatures had seen the fire risk drop below the thresholds that require ongoing fire permitting restrictions.“While permits are no longer required to light an open-air fire (in the Queenstown Lakes District), our local team remains on hand to provide advice to anyone looking to complete a burn,” he said.“Even with those cooler temperatures, vigilance around fire safety is important.“For Otago, any period of dry, settled weather at any time of year can increase the potential for unwanted fires. Escaped burns are a major contributor to this, so knowing how to burn safely is key.”Fenz advisor risk reduction Otago District Mark Mawhinney said everyone should visit the organisation’s Check It’s Alright website to better understand what they can and cannot do on any given day.

Hunters are urged to take care and be considerate of others as they hunker down in their mai-mais across Central this weekend.Fire and Emergency New Zealand (Fenz) are among those calling for people to take extra care this weekend, which marks the opening of duck shooting season.The event features on the calendar for thousands of hunters, including locals and those who travel to the district for the occasion.Fenz advisor risk reduction Otago District Mark Mawhinney reminds people that a lot of volunteer firefighters enjoy opening day as much as any other hunter.“It’s a big weekend for a lot of people.”However, the last few years has resulted in callouts in the Ida Valley over opening weekend, causing the day to be cut short, or interrupted for some volunteers.While callouts were necessary and something volunteer firefighters were proud to attend, there were some scenarios that could be avoided.Mark urged people to be considerate of others and to not take any risks.He said another key message to anyone, duck shooting, or not, was to visit the Check Its Alright website to make sure it was ok to light a fire.“There’s good guidance there on what they should and shouldn’t do.”Central Otago has moved from a prohibited fire season to restricted, which means anyone who lights a fire requires a permit.The outlook for opening day is fine with morning frosts, light winds and a high of 12 degrees Celsius.Sunday is similar, but with a high of 14C.Keep track of the weather forecast by clicking on our Weather button.And, to keep up to date with the seven safety rules of firearms usage, visit the Te Tari Pūreke Firearms Safety Authority.If you’ve got some photos or a good yarn to share after opening weekend contact [email protected]

The duck population will be significantly reduced across Central Otago this weekend, and a planned goat cull was also planned for the Cromwell Gorge.Alexandra Police Senior Sergeant Graham Perkins reminded duck shooters to be vigilant heading into opening weekend.Remembering basic firearm safety was important such as identifying your targets and being mindful of those around you for public safety.Drinking alcohol was another risk and best saved for the end of the day when the hunting had finished, Snr Sgt Perkins said.If children were accompanying adults they should be wearing ear protection, and legally nobody under 16 should be in possession of a weapon.“And finally look after your dog, feed it and keep it warm,” he said.According to the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council, which supports hunter safety and carries out firearms training, 87 per cent of game bird hunting injuries occur in May and 50 per cent over opening weekend.Falling, tripping and slipping in or around the maimai is the most common cause of duck hunting injury, but firearms incidents also occur, such as proximity-related injuries, hearing loss, as well as facial and eye injuries.Fish and Game officers would be out and about checking licences, and there will be a strong police presence, particularly in the Maniototo, carrying out breath testing on road users.Motorists travelling through the Cromwell Gorge recently would have noticed many wild goats and their small families that have come down from the hills to find fresh feed.Snr Sgt Perkins said Aspiring Highways had a goat cull planned for May, as numbers have started to escalate and encroach on the road verge.

The Alexandra Blossom Festival committee is disappointed by comments made by the Vincent Community Board (VCB) this week that it should work towards becoming financially self-sustainable. Festival organiser Martin McPherson, who sits on the VCB, was not privy to the discussion and declared a conflict of interest - removing himself from the meeting.Festival treasurer Tim Coughlan spoke to the recent grant application on Tuesday and said he was “deeply disappointed’’ to hear the comments made by council staff and board members about the festival’s sustainability. To his knowledge this has never been raised as an issue with the festival committee.The VCB has granted $20,000 for this year’s festival - less than a tenth of the cost to run the event ($224,400), and $4000 less than what it received last year.Tim said when the opportunity arose to clarify any issues or concerns the VCB had with supporting the festival, they chose to remain silent, with discussions about sustainability held after he had left.VCB chair Tamah Alley said, when approached for comment, Tim could have remained for the discussion, and she acknowledged to him that she could have specifically invited him to, and will in the future.“It was important for the board to have a conversation directly with the blossom festival committee rather than through alternate channels. “I have spoken with members of the committee and we all look forward to meeting soon to talk through how to support this event into the future.”She said the VCB “whole heartedly” supported the festival, “and as the current cost of living makes life challenging, it is important that fun events in our community remain accessible to as many people as possible. The committee has always strived for this by subsidising entry fees. It is important to consider all options with a long-term view to ensure this event remains accessible and viable for years to come."The Alexandra Blossom Festival has been a cornerstone event in Alexandra and the wider region for 67 years, attracting visitors from across New Zealand, and internationally. The past two years saw more than 12,000 people attend the Party in the Park - with 17,500 attending the Grand Parade - many of them from out of town. Festival chair Sharleen Stirling-Lindsay said the festival had survived more than six decades despite the odds, and was a not-for-profit entity that relied heavily on generous sponsorship, grants and donations. “The festival has survived recessions, Covid-19 lockdowns, extreme weather and a cost of living crisis, but only with the support of the community and key grants and sponsorship stakeholders.  “Where other events have folded, the blossom festival is still standing, proving the not-for-profit event is sustainable, with the support of generous sponsorship, grants and donations,’’ she said. Sharleen said she welcomed the opportunity to discuss with members of the Vincent Community Board any concerns they may have regarding the festival. “We have always said the festival is by our community, for our community - but if our own community can’t afford to go, then what’s the point?’’ 

Sustainable Tarras has not let the Christchurch Airport proposal go, and now the Central Otago group is also submitting against the Santana Minerals gold mine operation.Local media and group spokesperson Suze Keith have both poked fun at Santana’s ‘scoping study’ which promotes plenty of employment opportunities for the local population.“Good news, every person (children, adults, workers, retirees, like absolutely everyone) living in Cromwell can be assured they’ve got a job with Santana Minerals,” Sustainable Tarras’ Facebook page says.Santana’s scoping study said ‘fly-in, fly-out’ of staff or major camps were not required when Cromwell had an 8000-strong labour pool, and there was main road access from State Highway 8.Sustainable Tarras is made up of just eight members, with support from people all over New Zealand, who meet fortnightly to discuss their research and findings, and make Official Information Act requests for important information on relevant high-profile projects.Suze said the group was particularly concerned with Santana’s ‘fast track’ proposal, which it believes will open up politicians to corruption, being the final decision maker.Site map of the area for the proposed Rise and Shine gold mine near Bendigo. PHOTO: SuppliedMaking a formal submission on the proposal, Suze said the group believed it was a form of authoritarianism not seen since the Muldoon era of the 1980s.The group advised against any developer in New Zealand using the fast-track process, as it risked being seen as disrespecting social licence, and alienated the local community.While Bendigo had been used to mine gold many years ago, it was not a landscape that recovered well from the industry activity, she said.Then there was the toxic waste left behind and storage dams built to contain that risking contamination of waterways.“Our infrastructure deficits do not lie in airports or gold mines. It’s not smart development,” she said.The Australian-owned company said several weeks ago that it expected to make a net profit of $2 billion, but was still a year away from starting its Rise and Shine prospect.The mine would operate for eight years as an open-cast mine and for four years underground, recovering 1.12 million ounces of gold.

The Alexandra Blossom Festival committee is working hard to build up its reserves in case it had to cancel the event at the last minute.Treasurer Tim Coughlan spoke to the Vincent Community Board (VCB) yesterday about how 2023 was a close call, with rain all week in the lead up to the September festival threatening the iconic event.“We were pretty close last year, but the weather gods came through with the sun at the last minute,” he said.According to its accountability report, the festival costs $224,400 a year to run and the VCB grants the festival $24,500 each year for the infrastructure.The committee also relies on corporate sponsorship - Contact Energy has been involved for many years, donations/fundraising in 2023 raised $126,000 and revenue on the day almost $100,000.Tim said they were looking at securing a new agreement with Contact Energy in coming months, but had also been advised the company was under a corporate review.VCB chair Tamah Alley questioned what would happen if the Blossom Festival was canned at the last minute, and how much of a loss they would face.Tim advised it would cost them $100,000 in reserves, but all market sales would be refunded.“We broke even last year, but there is not much room for error. “The committee was just “one event away” from not being able to go ahead if threatened by bad weather or another Covid-19-type outbreak.“All of our funding is short term and we have to do that annually.”Numbers attending last year’s Saturday in the Park was around 12,000 - similar to 2022.The board decided it was important to have another talk with the committee about how best it could become self-sustainable.Board member Tracy Paterson said it was so iconic to the region and was here to stay, “and we need it to stay.”

A French fruit picker working on a vineyard at Bendigo was airlifted to Dunedin Hospital last week, after getting stuck underneath a moving car without a driver.Alexandra Police Senior Constable Graham Perkins said the car was parked on an incline and started to roll backwards, picking up speed as it headed towards the fruit picker and knocked him over.“He became wedged underneath the vehicle which dragged him and rolled him and then spat him out the front,” he said.The incident happened on Lakeview Rd on private property so police wouldn’t be laying charges as it was a Worksafe New Zealand issue.Snr Const Perkins said he wasn’t sure how severe the man's injuries were, but it was obviously an extremely unpleasant experience for the backpacker - having not long arrived in New Zealand.In other police news, a civil dispute between a landlord and tenant in Omakau last week, resulted in the 65-year-old owner of the property being charged with cultivating cannabis.Snr Const Perkins said an argument broke out between the pair about unpaid rent, and the landlord called police.The local officer walked past the garage and smelled the cannabis. Five mature plants were later discovered, which had been harvested, along with a large quantity of marijuana on the bench.Back in Alexandra last weekend, two Central Otago men, aged 19 and 20, were arrested by police for interfering with a patrol car in Queenstown.Snr Const Perkins said one of the men was also charged with endangering transport after police had to pull over on the way to a job and pump up their tyres.Endangering transport carries a maximum sentence of 14 years' imprisonment. The pair were also identified by CCTV footage for stealing a taxi sign off the roof of another vehicle.They appeared in the Queenstown District Court on Monday morning and were bailed with conditions, which includes a curfew.   

Feeling overwhelmed by the idea of downsizing as retirement approaches? You're not alone. Many of us find ourselves faced with the prospect of downsizing. Whether it's to simplify our lives, reduce maintenance, or free up equity, downsizing can be a daunting task but ultimately a rewarding journey.Here's how to prepare for downsizing and make the transition smoother: Sort Out Your Budget:First things first, get a clear picture of your financial landscape.Seek a market appraisal from a trusted real estate agent to understand the estimated value of your current property. This information will be invaluable when determining your budget for a new, smaller home.Once you determine the price, remember to include legal fees, real estate agent fees, removal costs, and any other related expenses, as well as consider how much you want to set aside to support your retirement savings, before you complete your budget.This will provide you with a ballpark figure and help you make an informed decision on what houses you should be looking at.Research Several Properties:Once you have a budget in mind, make a list of your "must-haves". Your must-haves could include the number of bedrooms, office space, bathrooms, or even the level of maintenance required both internally and externally.While thinking about your "must-haves", you must also factor in what it might look like for you getting older. Proximity to amenities like supermarkets, medical care, and recreational facilities might be crucial to consider especially when things like driving become a challenge in the future.It might be worth exploring different housing options, such as retirement villages or houses closer to town, based on your needs and preferences.Aurum on Clutha residentsThe Future You:Getting older may mean your living space may have to look a little different.Some common considerations that people look into are single level with few stairs/stairways, internal access garage, low-cost heating, ensuite, wheelchair access and wet floor shower.Consider factors like medical dependency or convenience to amenities when making your decision too. Although homes like these are usually more favourable and can mean more demand, hiking up the prices. In Preparation For Downsizing:When downsizing you're not going to have the same storage space you once had, so you'll have to start decluttering and getting rid of items you no longer need. Consider giving back your children's belongings and consider hosting garage sales, donating to charity or putting extra belongings in a storage unit.While you might be excited to get rid of unwanted items, there may be quite a few sentimental items that can be hard to part with. Downsizing often requires making tough decisions about what to keep and what to let go, so start preparing months in advance to allow plenty of time for the decluttering process. Your real estate agent can also help you make decisions around decluttering.There are many areas of the house such as your kitchen or closet space that are likely to be smaller after you downsize, so it's a good opportunity to simplify and lighten your load across all areas of your life. With less square footage available, larger items like furniture pieces and heavy appliances might also need to be downsized or creatively arranged to fit the available space more efficiently. Don't Leave It Too Late:One common mistake is leaving downsizing too late. Waiting until health issues arise or mobility becomes limited can make the process more challenging. Start planning early to avoid unnecessary stress and ensure a smoother transition.Getting started early gives you extra time to spruce up your place for open houses or viewings. You can freshen things up with a new coat of paint or improve the lighting by switching out bulbs to better appeal to potential buyers. If you'd like some more suggestions, you can check out my article for some tips on getting your home ready for showings.Get The Help You Need:Consider involving family members in the downsizing process. They can provide support, help with decisions, and assist with the physical aspects of moving. Keeping lines of communication open ensures everyone is on the same page and can alleviate some of the burdens associated and decrease the stress levels with downsizing.Conclusion:Downsizing can be a significant life transition, but with careful planning and preparation, it can also be a fulfilling one.If you need some expert advice and guidance on budgeting, moving logistics, or navigating the real estate market, don't hesitate to reach out to me. We can support you every step of the way on your downsizing journey throughout Central Otago. 

Insurance brokers play a vital role in the complex world of insurance, acting as intermediaries between clients and insurance companies. But are they worth the investment? Let's delve into the reasons why getting a broker can be a valuable asset.Deeper understanding of the insurance marketFirstly, insurance brokers are experts. They have industry knowledge and extensive insurance advice that can be invaluable when navigating the myriad of options available.With their in-depth understanding of insurance policies and regulations, advisers can help clients assess their needs and find the most suitable coverage tailored to their specific requirements.Insurance personalised to your needsInsurance needs will differ from person to person. Insurance brokers can provide personalised service, taking the time to understand their client's unique circumstances and priorities, and helping them find the right type of insurance.By building long-term relationships based on trust and understanding, advisers can offer ongoing advice and support, ensuring that clients have adequate coverage regardless of whether their situation changes.Offering Diverse Options Beyond a Single ProviderAnother key benefit of using an adviser for insurance is access to a wide range of products from multiple insurance providers.Unlike an independent insurance agent who represents a single insurer, brokers have the flexibility to shop around and compare policies from various providers, ensuring that clients receive competitive pricing and comprehensive coverage options.Advisers are in your cornerAdditionally, insurance advisers advocate for their clients in the event of a claim, assisting with insurance claims processing and liaising with insurance companies on behalf of the policyholder.This can be particularly valuable during stressful times, as advisers work to expedite the claims process and maximise the benefits for their clients.Summary While insurance advisers may incur additional costs compared to purchasing insurance directly from an insurer, their experience, personalised service, expert advice, access to a wide range of insurance products, and ability to tailor coverage to individual needs can make all the difference for individuals and businesses seeking peace of mind and comprehensive insurance coverage. Don't hesitate to reach out and explore how a broker from C&R Insurance can make a difference for you and/or your business.Commercial - Horticulture & Viticulture - Rural - Personal - Life & Health - Income Protection