Councillor Guyton

Youth Councillor Hollie Guyton said that she joined the Youth Council in order to make a difference for young people in her area. "I want to make a positive change, actively contribute to my community and learn more about local government," she said. "As part of the Youth Council this year I hope that we ensure that the voices of Southland's youth are heard by Southland District Council."

Drilling the island

They're drilling for gas on Stewart Island. Rather, Greymouth Petroleum has set up it's rig in anticipation of getting consent to drill for gas. It seems astonishing that they would go to all the effort of shipping gear to Rakiura, assemble it and advertise their intentions through The Southland Times, before getting their consents sorted. Still, there they are.

Meanwhile, we're playing an oil drilling board game on the dining room table, no consent required.

Endangered bird

While sharp-eyed Bureaucrat birds circle overhead, our heroic wee feathered friend peeks out in the hope that someone will come to his aid, before it's too late.

Nest appears, Council demands removal

Local gull signals approval for nest