Richard Davison

One of South Otago’s more green-fingered residents enjoyed a suitably floral centenary celebration in Balclutha yesterday.

Drivers travelling south from Dunedin can expect a dry reception from one of their regular fuel stops for the foreseeable future, although the owners are remaining tight-lipped as to the cause.

Clutha ratepayers will have a lower-than-expected rates increase this coming year, despite continuing capital project cost blowouts due to inflation.

A Gore massage therapist and rongoā Māori practitioner says Gore District Council is wilfully disregarding the health benefits of the indigenous and other therapeutic services she offers.

A key South Otago civic enhancement project will be scaled down to remain close to budget.

A rural industry spokesman has described recent burglary and vandalism in his patch as "cowardly and malicious", as police continue to hunt the offenders.

A subdivision at remote coastal community Toko Mouth looks set to go ahead, following consent approval by an independent commissioner.