‘Bring it back to new life’: Historical Canterbury hotel reopens

The historic Hurunui Hotel in North Canterbury has reopened its doors on November 28, ending a closure of more than a year. New director Sourav Sharma is leading the effort to revitalize the landmark, with plans to eventually purchase the property. A Landmark Reborn The 150-year-old Hurunui Hotel, located on State Highway 7, is a … Read more

Investors warned about Christchurch-based investment firm

Christchurch Investment Firm Under Scrutiny: A Warning Sign for Investors? The recent High Court appointment of liquidators to Chance Voight, a Christchurch-based investment firm linked to businessman Bernard Whimp, serves as a stark reminder of the risks inherent in alternative investments. The Financial Markets Authority (FMA) initiated the action, raising concerns about potential insolvency and … Read more

When the Honda City goes off road

From City Streets to Riverbeds: The Unexpected Rise of Off-Road Honda City Adventures The image is striking: a compact Honda City, a car typically associated with urban commutes and easy parking, tackling rugged terrain. But as a recent report highlighted, a growing community of enthusiasts is doing just that, participating in events like the annual … Read more

Wet, blustery start to week for large parts of the South Island

A wet and blustery start to the week is forecast for parts of New Zealand’s South Island, with MetService issuing multiple orange‑level heavy‑rain and strong‑wind warnings and watches for Monday. What the MetService is warning about MetService says an active front, preceded by strong moist northerlies, will move across the South Island on Monday, followed by … Read more

Man arrested after ‘significant fire damage’ to Timaru’s Xmas tree

A suspicious blaze early Friday morning caused “significant fire damage” to Timaru’s central Christmas tree at the Caroline Bay Piazza, prompting an arrest and a police investigation. What happened Emergency services were called to the Piazza at approximately 5.25 am when the tree was found burning. Fire and Emergency NZ crews from Timaru and Washdyke worked to … Read more

Christchurch pair jailed for ‘exploiting’ vulnerable victims of $4m

Why Ponzi Schemes Remain a Growing Threat – Lessons From the Christchurch Case When Thomas Alexander Kokouri Tuira and Aroha Awhinanui Tuira were sentenced for siphoning almost NZ$4 million from more than 55 investors, many assumed the story would fade. Instead, it shines a spotlight on the persistent danger of Ponzi-type frauds—especially when they exploit close‑knit communities. Key … Read more

Swathe of weather watches and warnings issued for the South Island

South Island Weather Alert: Brace Yourselves for Wild Weather This Weekend! Kiwis in the South Island, enjoy that sunshine while it lasts! A significant weather system is heading your way, bringing strong winds and heavy rain. MetService has issued orange heavy rain watches and strong wind warnings for much of the South Island and even … Read more

‘$1300 a year for commuter’

North Canterbury Residents Face Potential Toll Road Burden: What’s the Future of Infrastructure Funding? Toll Road Proposal Sparks Outrage: Who Really Pays? The proposed toll for the Woodend Bypass in North Canterbury has ignited a firestorm of debate, raising critical questions about how infrastructure projects are funded and who ultimately bears the financial burden. Local … Read more

Inquiry finds ‘significant’ problems in Canterbury’s Mental Health Services

Canterbury Mental Health Crisis: A Warning Sign for the Future? A scathing inquiry into Canterbury’s mental health services in New Zealand has revealed deep-seated problems, highlighting critical staff shortages, a “siloed culture,” and governance failures. But is this an isolated case, or a harbinger of challenges to come for mental healthcare systems worldwide? The report’s … Read more