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News

Temperatures across South Island’s east coast set to drop

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

A recent spell of warm weather across parts of the South Island is expected to be brief, with a significant temperature drop forecast for the region’s east coast, according to MetService.

Temperature Plunge Expected

MetService meteorologist Katie Lyons explained to 1News that a cold front originating in the Southern Ocean is moving northward and is the driving force behind the changing conditions. “It’ll move up and over the rest of the South Island today and tonight. That brings rain, but also in behind it brings plummeting temperatures,” Lyons said.

Did You Recognize? Today, Blenheim reached a high of 28C, while Christchurch experienced a high of 26C.

A yellow heavy rain watch is currently in effect for Fiordland, north of Dusky Sound, until 9pm tonight and for Southland until 7pm. Forecasted highs for Monday show a marked decrease, with Blenheim expected to reach 17C and Christchurch 15C.

Impact on Other Areas

Invercargill and Timaru are also expected to see highs “around the 14C or 15C mark.” The colder temperatures are anticipated to last for approximately two to three days before returning to more typical autumn averages in the low 20s.

Expert Insight: The rapid shift in temperatures highlights the typical variability of autumn weather patterns in Recent Zealand. These fluctuations are likely to become more frequent as the country moves closer to winter.

The cold front may also affect the east coast of the North Island, including Napier, Hastings, and Gisborne, though with reduced intensity. Lyons noted that cold fronts from the Southern Ocean typically “lose a bit of steam” as they move northward.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is causing the temperature change?

A cold front from the Southern Ocean moving northward is driving the temperature change.

Where are heavy rain watches in effect?

A yellow heavy rain watch was issued for Fiordland about and north of Dusky Sound until 9pm tonight, and Southland until 7pm.

How long will the colder temperatures last?

The colder temperatures are expected to last for about two to three days.

How will you prepare for the changing weather conditions in your area?

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Sport

Highlanders Beat Crusaders: Super Rugby Upset

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Highlanders’ Upset Win Signals Shift in Super Rugby Pacific Power Dynamics

The Highlanders’ stunning 25-23 victory over the reigning champion Crusaders isn’t just a feel-quality story; it’s a potential harbinger of change in Super Rugby Pacific. The win, sealed by a clutch 78th-minute penalty from Cameron Millar, underscores a growing trend: the gap between traditionally dominant teams and emerging contenders is narrowing.

Jamie Joseph’s All Blacks Audition: A Winning Start

For Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph, the win is more than just a team success. It’s a significant boost to his candidacy for the All Blacks head coaching position, vacated by Scott Robertson. The pressure was on Joseph, especially considering the Highlanders were considered underdogs against the Crusaders. This victory demonstrates his ability to orchestrate an upset against a formidable opponent.

Defensive Grit and Attacking Flair: The Highlanders’ Winning Formula

The Highlanders’ triumph wasn’t built on luck alone. The team showcased a remarkable defensive effort, consistently disrupting the Crusaders’ attack with crucial turnovers from players like Jack Taylor, Lucas Casey, and Timoci Tavatavanawai. Offensively, Caleb Tangitau’s early try, coupled with later scores from Angus Ta’avao and Jonah Lowe, demonstrated an attacking intent that the Crusaders struggled to contain.

Crusaders’ Struggles: A Sign of Vulnerability?

The Crusaders’ loss highlights potential vulnerabilities within the team. Despite responding with tries from Noah Hotham and Will Jordan, they couldn’t maintain control of the game. The introduction of All Blacks players like Codie Taylor, Fletcher Newell, and Jordan off the bench wasn’t enough to swing the momentum back in their favor. This suggests that even with star power, the Crusaders are not invincible.

The Rise of Tactical Kicking and Penalty Management

Cameron Millar’s late penalty wasn’t just a lucky kick; it was a testament to the Highlanders’ composure under pressure and their ability to capitalize on opportunities. The game also highlighted the importance of tactical kicking and penalty management. Millar’s earlier missed penalty attempt served as a reminder of the fine margins that often decide these contests.

Looking Ahead: What This Means for Super Rugby Pacific

This result signals a potential shift in the competitive landscape of Super Rugby Pacific. Teams are becoming more evenly matched, and upsets are becoming more frequent. The Highlanders’ win demonstrates that a well-coached, defensively sound team with a clear attacking strategy can challenge even the most established franchises. The Crusaders’ next challenge against the Brumbies will be a crucial test of their resilience.

Did you know?

Angus Ta’avao scored on his Highlanders debut, adding immediate impact off the bench.

Pro Tip:

Focus on defensive pressure and capitalizing on opponent errors. The Highlanders’ success hinged on disrupting the Crusaders’ attack and converting turnovers into points.

FAQ

Q: Who scored the winning penalty for the Highlanders?
A: Cameron Millar.

Q: What is Jamie Joseph’s connection to the All Blacks?
A: He is a frontrunner for the All Blacks head coaching position.

Q: Who did the Crusaders play next?
A: The Brumbies.

Q: What was a key factor in the Highlanders’ win?
A: Their strong defensive effort and ability to create turnovers.

Want to stay up-to-date with the latest Super Rugby Pacific news and analysis? Subscribe to our newsletter and never miss a beat!

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News

Rain watches for parts of the country, other areas set to hit 29C

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

A stark contrast in weather conditions is forecast for New Zealand this week, with heavy rain watches issued for parts of the South Island and muggy temperatures expected in the North. The forecast comes as an area of low pressure develops in the Tasman Sea.

South Island Braces for Heavy Rain and Potential Snow

MetService has issued heavy rain watches for Fiordland, Westland, Canterbury, and Marlborough. The heavy rain is expected to begin in Fiordland and southern Westland on Monday, then move eastward across the country on Tuesday. Specific watches are in effect from midnight Sunday for Fiordland, 6am Monday for Westland south of Franz Josef Glacier, and 2am Monday for Marlborough south of Seddon and Canterbury north of the Rangitata River.

Did You Know? Heavy rain watches were issued for areas beginning as early as midnight Sunday, indicating the potential for rapidly changing conditions.

Following the rain, an area of low pressure is expected to bring colder air to eastern parts of the South Island. Kiwis heading into the hills are advised to prepare for the possibility of snow, with forecasts indicating snow could fall as low as 1200 metres.

North Island to Experience Muggy Conditions

Meanwhile, the North Island is bracing for a different kind of weather. A tropical low travelling from Fiji is expected to bring moist, hot air, resulting in muggy conditions. Auckland is forecast to reach a high of 29C tomorrow, nearing the threshold for a heat alert. Similar temperatures are expected in Whenuapai and Whangārei.

A MetService spokesperson explained that warm air over the cold sea in inshore areas will likely create seafog, potentially extending inland and exacerbating the muggy temperatures.

Expert Insight: The juxtaposition of these weather systems highlights New Zealand’s dynamic climate and the influence of both tropical and polar air masses. The potential for significant temperature swings within a relatively short timeframe underscores the importance of staying informed about localized forecasts.

Southerly winds are also anticipated near the Cook Strait on Tuesday, though MetService indicates a low probability of these winds becoming strong enough to warrant a warning for the Marlborough Sounds, Wellington, and southern Wairarapa. The risk of thunderstorms across the country is currently assessed as low.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the heavy rain begin in Fiordland?

The heavy rain watch for Fiordland is in effect from midnight Sunday.

What temperatures are expected in Auckland tomorrow?

Auckland is forecast to reach a high of 29C tomorrow, which is close to their heat alert threshold.

Is there a risk of snow in the South Island?

Yes, there is a chance of snow in the South Island, potentially falling as low as 1200 metres.

How will you prepare for the changing weather conditions in your region this week?

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News

Sophie Elliott’s killer Clayton Weatherston denied parole

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Clayton Weatherston, one of New Zealand’s most notorious killers, has been denied parole after his first hearing, 18 years into a prison sentence for the murder of his ex-girlfriend, Sophie Elliott.

A Brutal Crime

In 2008, Weatherston, then 32 years old, attacked and killed 22-year-old Sophie Elliott in her Dunedin home. Elliott was preparing to move to Wellington to begin a career with the Treasury when Weatherston locked her in her bedroom and subjected her to a violent assault, inflicting over 200 stab wounds and mutilating her body. Her mother, present in the house, was unable to intervene during the attack.

Parole Hearing Details

At the hearing, Weatherston, now 50, appeared before the Parole Board alongside four supporters. He stated he felt “a bit anxious” about the proceedings, a sentiment acknowledged by Parole Board chairwoman Jan Marie Doogue. Weatherston’s lawyer indicated he did not expect to be granted parole at this time but expressed remorse for his actions. He described the act as a projection of his own rage, calling it a “brutal visceral way of wiping someone out” and expressing embarrassment at its “perverse nature.”

Did You Know? Weatherston was on his 32nd birthday when he committed the murder. He later told the Parole Board he experiences flashbacks to that day, causing him stress and shame.

Psychiatric reports presented to the board assessed Weatherston as high risk, particularly in future intimate relationships. He has spent the last 18 years reading psychology books – over a thousand hours – and worked in the prison kitchen for seven years, where he was described as polite and respectful.

Family’s Response and Concerns

Sophie Elliott’s father, Gil Elliott, expressed relief at the Parole Board’s decision, but voiced disappointment that the process will be repeated. He questioned the sincerity of Weatherston’s remorse, noting his son “broke down a couple of times” during the hearing and wondering if it was “sorrow for himself.” Mr. Elliott stated his firm belief that individuals with narcissistic traits, like Weatherston, are incapable of genuine change.

Expert Insight: The Parole Board’s denial underscores the complexities of assessing risk in cases involving extreme violence and personality disorders. The focus on ongoing psychological assessment and rehabilitation programs highlights the need for a cautious approach, prioritizing public safety while acknowledging the potential – however limited – for behavioral change.

Weatherston acknowledged the need for further work and expressed willingness to engage in rehabilitation, but also questioned the diagnosis of severe narcissistic and psychopathic personality disorder. He described his condition as a “hybrid” rather than an extreme form of narcissism.

What Happens Next

The Parole Board has determined that Weatherston’s case will be reviewed again in November of next year. This means he will remain incarcerated while undergoing further psychological assessment and, potentially, treatment. If, at the next hearing, the Board determines he still poses an unacceptable risk to the community, parole will again be denied. It is possible, though not guaranteed, that future hearings could lead to a gradual release with strict conditions, contingent on continued progress in addressing his risk factors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the outcome of Clayton Weatherston’s parole hearing?

Clayton Weatherston was denied parole at his first hearing, meaning he will remain in prison.

When will Weatherston be eligible for parole again?

His case will be reviewed again by the Parole Board in November of next year.

What did Sophie Elliott’s father say about the decision?

Gil Elliott expressed relief that Weatherston was not released, but disappointment that he will have to relive the process again in less than two years.

How do you weigh the potential for rehabilitation against the need to ensure public safety in cases of extreme violence?

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Business

Concern ‘ghost houses’ will ‘hollow out’ Queenstown

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

The Ghost Town Trend: How Holiday Homes Are Reshaping Queenstown – and What It Means for Other Tourist Hotspots

Queenstown, New Zealand, famed for its stunning scenery and adventure tourism, is facing a growing crisis: a “hollowing out” of its community. A recent report highlighted a stark reality – a significant number of properties stand empty for much of the year, purchased as holiday homes by those with the means to afford them. This isn’t just a Queenstown problem; it’s a pattern emerging in popular tourist destinations worldwide, raising questions about affordability, community sustainability, and the very future of these once-vibrant towns.

The Numbers Don’t Lie: A Quarter of Queenstown Properties Vacant

Data from the 2023 Census paints a concerning picture. Over a quarter of properties in the Queenstown Lakes District were unoccupied at any given time, with 3,480 dwellings completely empty and another 3,402 listed as “residents away.” This equates to over 6,800 properties effectively taken out of the housing pool, while over 1,600 households are on the waitlist for affordable housing. The situation is exacerbated by soaring property values and rental costs, making it increasingly difficult for local workers to live in the town they serve.

Beyond Queenstown: A Global Phenomenon

Similar trends are visible in other sought-after locations. Consider the Cotswolds in England, where second-home ownership has driven up prices, forcing locals to move away. In Aspen, Colorado, restrictions on short-term rentals are being debated as the town struggles to maintain a workforce. Even closer to home, Australian coastal towns like Byron Bay are grappling with similar issues. The common thread? Desirable locations attracting investment from outside the local community.

Why Are Homes Left Empty? The Economics of Absentee Ownership

Ralph Hanan, a former World Bank senior economist and long-time Queenstown resident, points to the economic realities at play. “It’s not good economics, but it’s reality,” he states. Property owners often find that rental yields are too low to justify the hassle of long-term tenants, especially given the high cost of property ownership and increasingly complex tenancy regulations. Short-term rentals offer a potential solution, but are often restricted by local regulations (like the 90-day limit in Queenstown). For many, simply keeping the property vacant for most of the year is the most financially viable option.

Pro Tip: Before investing in a property in a tourist hotspot, carefully analyze potential rental yields against property costs and local regulations. Consider the long-term implications for the community.

The Impact on Local Workforces and Community Fabric

The consequences of this trend are far-reaching. A shrinking pool of affordable housing forces essential workers – teachers, nurses, hospitality staff – to commute long distances or leave the area altogether. This creates staffing shortages, strains local infrastructure, and erodes the community’s social fabric. Queenstown Mayor John Glover warns that without intervention, the town risks becoming a “trainwreck,” losing its appeal as both a place to live and a destination for visitors.

Potential Solutions: From Taxes to Zoning Regulations

Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach. Several potential solutions are being discussed:

  • Capital Gains Tax: Mayor Glover suggests a capital gains tax on second homes could disincentivize speculative investment and encourage owners to rent out their properties.
  • Zoning Regulations: Implementing local ownership clauses in new developments, prioritizing housing for residents who intend to live in the properties year-round.
  • Increased Affordable Housing Supply: Scaling up community housing trusts and requiring developers to contribute to affordable housing schemes. Simplicity’s planned 600-home development in Queenstown is a positive step.
  • Review of Short-Term Rental Regulations: Finding a balance between allowing tourism and ensuring sufficient long-term rental stock.

The Role of Government and Policy

While individual property owners bear some responsibility, systemic change requires government intervention. Policies that encourage long-term rentals, disincentivize speculative investment, and prioritize affordable housing are crucial. This may involve revisiting tax laws, reforming zoning regulations, and providing financial incentives for developers to build affordable housing.

Did you know?

The term “ghost town” traditionally referred to abandoned mining settlements. Now, it’s increasingly being used to describe thriving tourist destinations hollowed out by absentee ownership.

Looking Ahead: A Sustainable Future for Tourist Towns

The Queenstown situation serves as a cautionary tale for other tourist hotspots. Ignoring the issue of absentee ownership risks transforming vibrant communities into exclusive enclaves for the wealthy, ultimately undermining the very qualities that make them desirable in the first place. A sustainable future requires a commitment to balancing economic growth with social equity, ensuring that these towns remain places where people can live, work, and thrive – not just visit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is this problem unique to Queenstown?
A: No, it’s a growing trend in many popular tourist destinations worldwide, including the Cotswolds, Aspen, and Byron Bay.

Q: What is a capital gains tax?
A: A tax on the profit made from the sale of an asset, such as a property. Applying this to second homes could discourage speculative investment.

Q: What can be done to increase the supply of affordable housing?
A: Scaling up community housing trusts, requiring developer contributions, and reforming zoning regulations are all potential solutions.

Q: Why don’t property owners just rent out their homes?
A: Rental yields may be too low to justify the costs and hassle, especially with complex tenancy regulations.

Want to learn more about affordable housing initiatives? Visit the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development website for resources and information.

Share your thoughts! What solutions do you think would be most effective in addressing the issue of absentee ownership in tourist towns? Leave a comment below.

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News

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

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

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 showery westerlies. Orange heavy‑rain warnings apply to the Westland Ranges (160–200 mm expected from morning until early Tuesday), Fiordland (up to 150 mm during the day), and the headwaters of Canterbury and Otago (up to 180 mm near the main divide).

Severe gales are forecast for Fiordland and the Canterbury High Country, with gusts reaching up to 120 km/h. A strong‑wind watch is in place for Queenstown Lakes, Central Otago, inland Southland, Clutha and Dunedin.

Potential impacts

Rapid rises in streams and rivers could trigger surface flooding and slips, prompting drivers to avoid low‑lying areas. MetService warns of possible damage to trees and powerlines, and notes that high‑sided vehicles may face hazardous driving conditions.

Full list of weather watches and warnings

  • Heavy Rain Warning – Orange
    • Westland District ranges – 18 hours, 9 am Mon → 3 am Tue
    • Canterbury headwaters (south of Arthur’s Pass) – 12 hours, 3 pm Mon → 3 am Tue
    • Otago headwaters – 9 hours, 10 am → 7 pm Mon
    • Fiordland (north of Doubtful Sound) – 10 hours, 6 am → 4 pm Mon
  • Strong Wind Warning – Orange
    • Canterbury High Country – 18 hours, 9 am Mon → 3 am Tue
    • Fiordland – 10 hours, 4 am → 2 pm Mon
  • Strong Wind Watch
    • Queenstown Lakes, Central Otago, inland Southland, Clutha and Dunedin – 10 hours, 6 am → 4 pm Mon
Did You Know? The orange heavy‑rain warning for the Westland District remains in force for an 18‑hour period, starting at 9 am on Monday.
Expert Insight: When rainfall totals approach 200 mm in mountainous terrain, rivers can swell dramatically within hours. This raises the risk of flash flooding and landslides, especially on steep slopes that dominate the Westland and Canterbury high country. Travelers on exposed routes should anticipate possible road closures and allow extra time for detours.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do the heavy‑rain warnings start and end?

The heavy‑rain warnings begin at 9 am on Monday for the Westland District (lasting until 3 am Tuesday) and at varying times for other regions, ranging from 6 am to 3 pm on Monday.

Which areas are expected to experience the strongest winds?

Severe gales with gusts up to 120 km/h are forecast for Fiordland and the Canterbury High Country, while a strong‑wind watch covers Queenstown Lakes, Central Otago, inland Southland, Clutha and Dunedin.

What precautions does MetService recommend?

MetService urges drivers to take care, avoid low‑lying areas prone to flooding, and be especially cautious if operating high‑sided vehicles, given the potential for strong gusts and rapid river rises.

How are you preparing for the potential weather impacts this week?

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News

Swathe of weather watches and warnings issued for the South Island

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

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 Wellington, starting late Saturday and continuing through Sunday.

What’s Coming: A Deep Dive into the Weekend Weather

MetService meteorologist John Law warns of a dramatic shift. After a cold and frosty night, Saturday dawns with fine weather in the North Island. However, down south, things are about to change. Showers will push towards the western coast, followed by a substantial rain system moving up from the west. Expect heavy rain in Fiordland and Westland, coupled with strong winds on the eastern side of the Southern Alps, affecting Canterbury, Marlborough, and even Wellington.

Canterbury High Country: Prepare for Gale-Force Winds

The Canterbury High Country is expected to bear the brunt of the winds. Gusts could reach a staggering 140km/h in the most exposed areas. If you’re planning any outdoor activities, especially in elevated locations, reconsider your plans. Safety should be your top priority.

Pro Tip: Stay updated with the latest MetService forecasts. Conditions can change rapidly, so real-time information is crucial for making informed decisions.

Lightning Strikes: Mother Nature’s Power on Display

Adding to the weather drama, a MetService radar near Hokitika was struck by lightning, causing significant damage. The radome, the protective dome at the top of the tower, took a direct hit. While this is a setback, MetService assures the public that they have alternative tools, including satellite imagery, nearby radar sites, weather stations, and computer models, to maintain accurate forecasts and severe weather warnings.

Did you know? Lightning strikes are more common than you might think. Tall structures, like radar towers, are particularly vulnerable. Despite advancements in technology, predicting the exact location of a lightning strike remains a challenge.

Forecasting Amidst the Storm: Alternative Methods in Play

Even with the radar damage, MetService can still provide reliable forecasts by leveraging multiple data sources. This redundancy is essential for ensuring public safety during severe weather events. Satellite data offers a broad overview, while weather stations provide localized measurements. Computer models integrate these data points to create comprehensive weather predictions.

Check the latest MetService Warnings here.

Watches and Warnings: A Region-by-Region Breakdown

Here’s a detailed look at the watches and warnings in place:

  • Strong Wind Warning (Orange):
    • Canterbury High Country: From 10pm Saturday to 3pm Sunday.
    • Fiordland: From 6pm Saturday to 6am Sunday.
  • Heavy Rain Watch:
    • Fiordland (north of Doubtful Sound): From 10pm Saturday to 6am Sunday.
    • Tasman (northwest of Motueka), Buller, Spencer Mountains, and St Arnaud Range: From 7am to 9pm Sunday.
    • Richmond and Bryant ranges, Rai Valley: From midday to midnight Sunday.
    • Headwaters of the Canterbury lakes and rivers: From 3am to 3pm Sunday.
    • Ranges of the Westland District: From midnight to noon Sunday.
    • Headwaters of the Otago lakes and rivers: From 1am to 8am Sunday.
  • Strong Wind Watch:
    • Wellington, Wairarapa (south of Greytown), Marlborough Sounds: From 2am to 10pm Sunday.
    • Marlborough (excluding the Sounds): From midnight to 6pm Sunday.
    • Canterbury Plains and Christchurch: From 3am to 3pm Sunday.
    • Queenstown Lakes, Central Otago, inland North Otago, Dunedin, and Clutha: From midnight Saturday to 9am Sunday.
    • Southland: From 11pm Saturday to 6am Sunday.

This is not just about inconvenience; these weather conditions can pose significant risks. High winds can damage property, disrupt power lines, and make driving hazardous. Heavy rain can cause flooding and landslides. Take these warnings seriously and plan accordingly.

Preparing for the Weather: Essential Tips

Being prepared can make all the difference. Here are some practical steps you can take:

  • Secure loose objects around your property.
  • Clear gutters and drains to prevent flooding.
  • Have a supply of food, water, and essential medications.
  • Charge your electronic devices and have a backup power source.
  • Avoid unnecessary travel during the worst of the weather.

Reader Question: What are your go-to strategies for weathering a storm? Share your tips in the comments below!

FAQ: Weather Warning Edition

What is an Orange Strong Wind Warning?
It indicates that strong winds are expected, posing a risk to property and potentially causing disruptions. It’s a step below a Red Warning, but still requires vigilance.
What is a Heavy Rain Watch?
A Heavy Rain Watch means that conditions are favorable for heavy rain, and people should be aware and prepared for potential flooding.
How can I stay updated on the weather?
Regularly check the MetService website, listen to local radio broadcasts, or download a reliable weather app.
What should I do during a strong wind event?
Stay indoors, away from windows. Secure outdoor objects and avoid driving unless necessary.

Stay safe out there, South Island! Prepare for the incoming weather and keep an eye on the latest updates from MetService.

Want to learn more about staying safe during severe weather? Read our emergency preparedness guide.

Do you have any questions or comments about the upcoming weather event? Share them below!

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