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].

At Collinson Wealth Partners we take a holistic approach to personal finance with emphasis on simplicity, common sense, and a long-term perspective.We believe with this approach; you are less inclined to take the wrong path and get distracted from securing your financial future, which in this business is an easy thing to do with all the noise and emotions involved when it comes to money!Build Wealth Through Emotional IntelligenceBuilding wealth is a process of consistent saving, investing and adhering to a well-thought-out plan, regardless of market fluctuations.Emotional intelligence - more so than just intellectual intelligence - is the key to your financial future, especially when making investment decisions. But it is also the hardest part. Controlling your emotions and avoiding the temptation of jumping in and jumping out of the market is crucial to financial success.Wealth accumulation is best done gradually with patience, discipline and a focus on setting and achieving personal and financial goals. Align Level of Risk with Life StageAnother complication is that life experience shapes our perception of potential risk. Our capacity and need to take financial risks should be aligned with our stage in life, financial situation, objectives, and individual risk tolerance.At the end of the day, we are all mostly looking for financial security and peace of mind. This can be achieved by creating a financial plan resilient enough to withstand market uncertainties, while being flexible enough to adapt to individual needs. Keep It SimpleThe modern financial landscape provides us with opportunities and challenges. The ease of automating investments and a wide range of financial products can be a positive and a negative.Automation can simplify the process, but new investment options can overcomplicate and cause you to deviate from your wealth plan.Most success comes from getting the plan and financial goals right at the beginning, and then letting time and compounding do the heavy lifting, without getting interrupted by new investment strategies/products, ideas, or attempts to time the market. SummarySo, the keys to wealth management are understanding the physiological aspect of investing, the value of keeping it simple and maintaining focus on the long term. This is where advice from an experienced and knowledgeable investment specialist can make all the difference.We at Collinson Wealth believe our core value lies in helping clients create their financial plan and keep their focus on what is important to them in the long term; keeping them from being distracted by the noise and promise of instant wealth which appears so prevalent in the modern investment environment.The information contained in this publication is general in nature and is not intended to be personalised financial advice. Before making any financial decisions, you should consult a professional financial adviser.Collinson Wealth Partners FSP 743091 believes the information in this publication is correct, and it has reasonable grounds for any opinion or recommendation contained in this publication on the date of this publication.  

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! 

Driving for Perfection on Old Golf Course Road10 Old Golf Course Road, AlexandraEnquiries over $2,100,000Escape to the perfect blend of comfort and style, town and lifestyle, on the edge of the picturesque Alexandra basin. Taking in the current beautiful Autumn colours, the stunning surrounding landscapes, views, all day sun you can indulge in the serenity of this executive 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom oasis boasting spacious living areas including a separate lounge for cozy nights by the open fire. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Peter Hishon.Family approved!9 Kohinoor Lane, CromwellEnquiries over $1,035,000Nestled in the coveted Prospectors Park, in Central Cromwell - an easy walking distance from Lake Dunstan, Heritage Precinct, Golf Course, Shops and more. Our latest listing will excite families looking for a home with space, flexibility and all the mod cons in a central location. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Keeley Anderson and Siobhan Ramage.Discover Cromwell Living Today!7 Electric Place, CromwellDeadline SaleStep into luxury through an enticing entrance to your newly expanded garage, perfect for all your vehicles and storage needs. Fully fenced for peace of mind, your furry friends can roam freely in the lush, landscaped yard, kept vibrant and green with efficient irrigation. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Kate Andrew.Contemporary Home With Ample Space!30 Ethereal Crescent, Mount PisaDeadline SaleStep into a modern contemporary masterpiece offering fabulous views and an expansive living experience. This remarkable home, built approximately in 2018, is perfectly situated close to the serene lake and scenic Dunstan trail, in Pisa Moorings, just 15 minutes from Cromwell and approximately 50 minutes from Wanaka and Queenstown. ensuring both convenience and tranquility. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Kate Andrew.Good Starter Or Holiday Home7 Old Bridge Road, AlexandraDeadline SaleA family home nestled in a peaceful neighborhood. This property offers a comfortable and convenient lifestyle, with easy access to the river and cycle trail. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Stacey Waldron and Rebecca Ireland.Downsize Into Prime Location14 Schaumann Street, AlexandraEnquiries Over $715,000Discover the perfect blend of comfort and convenience at 14 Schaumann Street. This inviting home boasts two spacious double bedrooms, plus a versatile single bedroom or office space - ideal for modern living. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Peter Hishon.Cromwell Lifestyle Opportunity94 Pearson Road, CromwellDeadline SaleWelcome to 94 Pearson Road. Ideal for those seeking an orchard lifestyle with income potential, as well as homeowners yearning for a harmonious blend of comfort, sustainability, and breathtaking natural surroundings. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Kate Andrew.Modern Living At Its Finest!30a Monaghan Street, CromwellEnquiries Over $890,000Setting the standard for chic, modern living, this contemporary low maintenance home will impress and inspire. Located in sought after Old Cromwell and surrounded by mountain views. Its conveniently across the street from popular Cromwell Primary and an easy walk to the Heritage Precinct, Lake Dunstan - ideal for first-home buyers, investors and more. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Keeley Anderson and Dimple Tuteja.A Spectacular Luxury Pisa Home!39 Missy Crescent, Mount PisaEnquiries Over $1,525,000Behind the private high fence is a spectacularly luxurious family home located in affluent and desirable Pisa Moorings, one of the most admired and sought-after areas in the region, nestled on the edge of Lake Dunstan - a short drive from Cromwell, Queenstown, and Wanaka. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Keeley Anderson and Siobhan Ramage.Families Get Excited!69 Wallis Drive, CromwellEnquiries Over $1,265,000Families looking to upsize or relocate to Central will get excited with our latest listing in popular Prospectors Park. A short walk to Lake Dunstan, the Cromwell Golf Course, Schools, supermarket, and more - this four-bedroom modern and substantial home will exceed expectations. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Keeley Anderson and Siobhan Ramage.A Step Onto The Property Ladder!2 Gavan Street, CromwellEnquiries Over $650,000Welcome to this charming and versatile 1960's gem with LIM available, offering something for everyone - whether you're a first-time buyer, investor, or holiday maker. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Kate Andrew.Rural Oasis: The Station Retreat In Omakau11 Half Time Close, OmakauEnquiries Over $1,000,000Escape to your own rural oasis at "The Station" retreat in Omakau. This exceptional property offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern luxury, providing a sanctuary for relaxation and leisure. Click here for more information or to contact the agent Peter Hishon.OPEN HOMESOpen HomesNOW SOLD

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.

A Dunstan High School (DHS) student is gearing up for a nine-week trip to Europe to race in the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Junior World Series for cross country mountain biking and he needs the help of the community.Eddie Adams (17) is training “hard out” until he goes, and at the same time is organising a fundraising event at the Alexandra Airport mountain bike (MTB) tracks.He said he needs $16,000 for the trip, his first to Europe, and has already squirrelled away about half of what he needs himself. From the events in France and Spain he hopes to gain UCI points, to give him a world ranking, and then be selected in the New Zealand team to ride in the MTB World Championships in Andorra, August 28 - September 1. “Selection isn’t made until June or July so this is building towards [my goal of] World Champs]. “My trip leads up to the world champs and we’ll have to see if I make the team or not. If I don't, maybe I’ll stay on and watch or come home a week early.“Once I get there, I’m going to train hard and at altitude to get ready,” Eddie said.Coach James Williamson said Eddie is facing 15 to 20 hours per week of training until he goes.“That’s training before school and after school. He’s pretty committed . . . and focusing on the process, this is the next step and there’s a fair bit of luck and chance in making teams. He’s getting done what needs to be done.”Coach James Williamson and Eddie when he won the national title in February. PHOTO: SuppliedEddie’s dad DHS deputy principal Todd Adams is hoping to accompany his son for part of the time.Successes for Eddie this season are mounting up. Along with winning gold in the XC MTB National Championships at Coronet Peak, he won the junior category in The Goldminer 40km endurance event at the same venue earlier in February. He participated in the under 19 Elite Road National Championships in Timaru earning sixth place (February 8-10), travelled to the Australian Cycling MTB National Series XC round one and two in the Gold Coast (February 3-4) where he earned fourth in round one and then a first in round two. He was the fastest individual in Prospector MTB Race on his home turf (March 8-10.) He earned a fifth placing at the Oceania Cycling Championships in cross country, held at Mount Cotton in Queensland in late March. Eddie has been nominated for the Central Otago Sports Awards in the junior sportsman of the year category. Read more: Central youngster shortlisted in CO Sports AwardsThe upcoming fundraiser is a six-hour MTB, walk or run where you can complete as many laps of the course as you like, individually or in a team.Eddie said there will be lots of spot prizes, including some biking goods from sponsors, and other local business supporters, a barbecue and plenty of good vibes. It is koha (donation) to enter, and you need to register on Sunday May 26 by 9am.If you can’t participate on the day, there is ‘Eddie’s travel fund’ Give a Little page.Find out more about the fundraiser on the What’ On listing.

A Central Otago vineyard’s multiple subdivisions of the same piece of land in recent years has not gained support from the Central Otago District Council planning consultant.Peregrine Wines first started a three-lot subdivision at Bendigo Loop Rd in 2021, then subdivided a 30ha lot into a further two lots a year later, and now wants to break it down even further.A hearing is set down for May 23 and although only one person has submitted against the proposal, planning consultant Olivia Stirling has recommended it be declined.“In all circumstances I consider the surrounding landscape to have already reached a density that is unable to absorb any further fragmentation without significantly undermining the rural character, amenity and open natural landscape values of the Rural Resource Area,” she said, in her planner's report.Although no change of land use has been made, nor any residential activity proposed on the bare land, the planner agreed with the submitter that the applicant was sending “mixed messages” in recognising the possibility of future housing on the sites.The initial piece of land subdivided was 38.9ha - split into three lots (5.46ha, 4.29ha and 29.17ha).The 29.17ha lot was then split into a further two lots (3.47ha and 25.72ha), and now the company wants to split the bigger piece that is left into a further 23.7ha and 2.005ha.Landscape planner Ben Espie also recommended a legal covenant to protect residential building on future lots.Olivia said in her report that it was evident the applicant had taken advantage of the average allotment areas in the district plan, which are intended to be used to manage the level of development in a rural area, and ensure the open space character is maintained. She said staging of the subdivisions of the same underlying piece of land had resulted in a density of development that was not anticipated by the district plan.“I consider that further incremental subdivision of this area will give it the appearance of a rural lifestyle enclave. In my opinion, the emergence of a rural lifestyle enclave within a distinctly rural landscape will visually appear as a departure from the open and natural character intended for the Rural Resource Area.”Peregrine noted in its application that viticulture use of the site was more productive than its current agriculture use, and confirmed it had already purchased sauvignon blanc vines to plant within one of the new lots.

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]

Millers Flat author Kyle Mewburn’s new novel ‘Sewing Moonlight’ has been a 24-year-long journey, involving numerous rewrites, but it has hit New Zealand bookstores and made a bestseller list last month. Kyle said she was “astounded” to make the Nielsen BookScan New Zealand bestseller list on April 19 as it has never happened before.“I've been around for 20 years now and I've had one picture book in number 10 for one week. But, when you say you've been in the top 10, you're in the bestseller list, people think, oh, you'll be going on a fancy holiday and buying a new car. And, you think, I might be able to afford my power bill this month.”Sewing Moonlight is set in the fictional Falters Mill in the 1920s. It follows a German immigrant finding his feet in a new country and exploring sustainability.The cover of Sewing Moonlight, published by Bateman Books. PHOTO: Supplied Kyle and her wife Marion bought their five acres in Millers Flat in 1990 and started building “a little oasis, planting hedges and gardens.”In 1997, Kyle bumped into a volunteer at a 24-hour book sale, the granddaughter of one of the original owners of her Millers Flat property.“She told me her grandfather was a massive gardener. They had a macrocarpa hedge around the whole property. They had chickens, they had perennial borders, [and] orchards. She also told me that her grandmother married beneath her station. Her parents basically gave her a sewing machine for [her] wedding and never talked to her again.“I suddenly thought . . . that we were just repeating a cycle . . . we’ve basically got our macrocarpa hedge and orchard."The idea of cycles led her to the moon, companion planting and biodynamics and that combined with the sewing machine story sparked her to start the novel in 2000 and finish the first edition in 2002.Marion and Kyle Mewburn. PHOTO: SuppliedThe historical fiction book had two local launches thanking Central’s arts community, one held at Cromwell’s Paper Plus and a 1930s themed ‘ladies plate of supper and dance’ in the Millers Flat hall, attended by more than 50 people.Kyle’s advice to aspiring writers, learned over the past 30 years since she started writing full time is to “play around, have fun, experiment . . . find your inner self and then start expressing that.”Listen to Kyle’s interview on today’s episode of The Outlet podcast.

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?’’ 

From Monday cellphones were banned in New Zealand schools, with the Minister of Education Erica Stanford’s message being “phones away for the day”. Central schools are well placed to keep students focused on learning in a phone free environment because many have adhered to the ban for months in advance.The new regulation states that "schools must ensure students do not use or access a phone while they are attending school, including during lunch time and breaks. This includes students who are on a school course or visit outside the school grounds." As students returned to school this year, The Central App asked some Central secondary schools how they were approaching the cell phone situation.On January 30, Cromwell College (CC) principal Mason Stretch said CC had banned them last year for students in year seven to 12.Mason said there was strong support from the school community for this. The return to school for 2024 saw this ban extended to year 13 students; a term prior to implementation of the Government policy to ban cellphones in schools.After two days of the new nationwide regulation being in place CC has had very few issues, he said.“Students are understanding and accepting of the requirement [and] parents have also been supportive. If a student is seen with a phone at any time during the day, then a staff member will ask for it. It will then be stored safely in the office area.”“CC is currently collecting one or two phones per day, mainly from senior students."Parents pick up confiscated phones at the end of the day.”At CC, listening to music is at the discretion of the teacher and depends on the work for that lesson. “There would be no music during whole class instruction or group collaborative work. If music was allowed by the teacher it would generally be during independent tasks.”  Maniototo Area School (MAS) principal Melissa Bell said in early February that students have always handed phones in, and there were going to be no changes to the usual process for MAS.“Almost none of our students have smart watches so they are not an issue either.“Listening to music via laptops might be something that happens at certain times. For example, while working on an art portfolio. Headphones are not allowed during instruction time in any class,” Melissa said. Dunstan High School (DHS) has a new cell phone policy, which requires phones to be turned off and in a school bag between 8.55am and 3pm, they cannot be used in break times, and they must remain off until the student has left school. Smart watches cannot be used as a phone, and must have notifications turned off. In a return to a past practice, laminated copies of student timetables were distributed to DHS students, some of whom before now had timetables stored on their phones. The behaviour change stemming from the cell phone ban extends to whānau who need to contact students during the day, instead of firing off a text message or sending a voice memo, they need to call the school office. Feedback from students was mixed. One DHS student said they were still using their phones at break times, with no consequences and another said on Monday there were seven phones taken off students, and on Tuesday there were 11. There are exemptions to the ban such as if the student requires their phone for health purposes to monitor insulin levels, or for students aided by their phones to address barriers to accessing and participation in learning.  DHS acting principal Bryce Clapham was approached for comment, but missed the publishing deadline. One Central father said getting students off social media during school time might help their learning.“Teenagers are still online on snapchat, Tiktok, gaming and all the rest of that at the first chance they get.”Further information is available on the Ministry of Education’s webpage Phones away for the day. Read more: Kapa haka group welcomes Minister of Education The Central App would like to hear from Central youngsters about how they’re adjusting to being phone free at school. Send the news team an email, outside of school hours: [email protected] and share your thoughts. 

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.

A squad of 13 masters rowers from Dunstan Arm Rowing Club (DARC) smashed out 25 rowing races over the two-day South Island Masters Rowing Regatta held at Glendhu Bay, Wānaka, on April 25-26. The group collected three trophies and 10 gold medals. Coach Natalie Wilson said it was a successful weekend for the small squad who range in age from 30-60 years old.“[There are] those who are relatively new to the sport through to those who have previously rowed at representative level.”Trophies went to the fastest men’s quad crew of Kelvin Maker, Dave Hanan, Chris Brooks, Andrew Jolly, the fastest women’s four of Rebecca Kingan, Heather Breen, Natalie Wilson and Melissa Cragg (of Picton) and the fastest double team of Rebecca Kingan and Dana Leishman.Pictured (from left) are Dana Leishman and Rebecca Kingan. PHOTO: Supplied  On Friday fresh snow on the mountains brought chilly conditions and a stunning backdrop to the day, but due to choppy conditions the long-distance race was shortened from 5km to 2.5km. The South Island Masters Rowing was held in Wānaka last weekend with snowy vistas. PHOTO: Stephen DuncanDARC rowers were in a combined crew who won the mixed masters eight on Friday. The crew was Rebecca Kingan, Natalie Wilson, Emilie Nebulot (North Shore), Maude O'Connell (Cromwell) Jeff Steele, Quentin Annan, Phil Newsome, Wayne Gloag and coxswain Abbey Pederson.The men’s and women’s eights were another highlight of the regatta. In the women's four DARC rowers Rebecca Kingan, Heather Brennan, Dana Leishman and Natalie Wilson teamed up with Melissa Cragg (Picton), Anne Arnt (Union), Christina Blackford and Vanessa Felix (Avon) and coxed by Abbey Pederson. “They [had] a blistering race, rowing through the North Shore eight in the second half of the race to take line honours,” Natalie said.  The winning South Islands Masters women’s four was (from left) Rebecca Kingan (stroke), Heather Breen, Natalie Wilson and Melissa Cragg (Picton). PHOTO: Stephen Duncan. It was a tight battle in the men's eight with Kelvin Maker, Quentin Annan, Andrew Jolly, Chris Brooks, Gary Jack, Jeff Steele, Phil Newsome and Wayne Gloag and cox Abbey beating Picton on the finish line to win the gold.A prize giving and an evening function was held at the Lake Wānaka Centre, hosted by the Wānaka Rowing Club for competitors and supporters.Pictured (from left) are the gold winning crew of Chris Brooks, Dave Hanan, Kelvin Maker and Andrew Jolly. PHOTO: Stephen Duncan.Some DARC masters train all year round, getting together on the weekends for training, followed by breakfast and a few rowing yarns at one of Central’s cafes. “Some masters will hang up their oars over winter, but for others they'll pop on a few extra layers and continue to head out on the water."Planning is underway for a masters training weekend at Dunstan in late winter, with masters coming from all over New Zealand before the NZ Masters Rowing Regatta at Lake Karapiro in September.”For information see DARC’s listing.

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.   

A women’s Sunday social soccer league has started in Central and women of all ages and skill levels are welcome.Organisers are hoping to involve players from across the district to grow the sport as a whole.For the inaugural game almost 30 women met in Wānaka with ages ranging from high school students, to younger women in their 20s, mums and grandmothers getting involved.It was a multicultural game, with an emphasis on enjoyment, as players from Mexico, the United States, Argentina, Spain as well as New Zealanders and Australians took part. Some had never played in an eleven-a-side game previously, or with proper goals, nets and a referee.The women’s draw is planned to follow the junior football rotation, which moves between the four clubs every Sunday (Wānaka, Cromwell, Queenstown and Alexandra.)The next game is on Sunday, May 5, 3pm at Cromwell’s Anderson Park. To join in you need boots, shinpads, a water bottle and a good sense of fun.There are women’s squads regularly training in Alexandra and Cromwell, with the support of the Alexandra United Football Club and Cromwell Football Club. To find out more contact Jess Carrington on [email protected] or find the Alexandra Women’s Football group on Facebook.