Welcome to the 9th annual southland Buskers Festival! One of the region’s most accessible and entertaining events.

Even thermometers can't keep up with the plunging temperatures in Russia's remote Yakutia region, which hit minus 67 degrees Celsius (minus 88.6 degrees Fahrenheit) in some areas Tuesday.

Mataura's water supply is in jeopardy after a sudden and significant drawdown of water from Mataura's reservoir that is jeopardising the town's water supply.

An aviation student in northern Minnesota pulled off a sky-high marriage proposal by writing "Marry Me" in the snow, then flying his long-time girlfriend over his handiwork.

This is a once a year chance to take on the infamous Hokonui Hills, enjoy challenging but achievable courses and spectacular scenery along the way.

The latest underground search for water in the Gore district may be completed in the week from January 15 on land occupied by softball diamonds, council staff say.

Come celebrate World Wetlands Day at Rakatu Wetlands! Explore this unique environment and discover the what makes wetlands so important.

A relaxing holiday in Wanaka turned into a flaming emergency and a sleepless night for campers near a large rural fire.

The Russian Armed Forces has unveiled its latest cutting-edge weapon in a New Year's greetings video: cuddly puppies.

The Southland District Council Holiday Programme is coming to you this January!

A cafe in London is taking barista art to a new level by giving customers the chance to sip on their own self-portraits.

A toxic substance being stored in the former paper mill building at Mataura and at sites at Awarua, near Invercargill, won't be moved anywhere soon.

The Southland District Council Holiday Programme is coming to you this January! Send your kids along for days of sports, crafts, games and challenges.

A woman was asked to leave the Queenstown Lakes District Council chambers after she began tipping a bottle of Glenorchy water over the floor during a council meeting.

"Not knowing anything is the sweetest life." - Sophocles

Tapanui, dubbed Millhaven from its time as a film setting for Pete's Dragon, has turned into Dryhaven as Tapanui's water restrictions kick in.

A Hawaii woman is waiting to hear back from Guinness World Records to find out if the massive avocado she snagged is the world's largest.

Come and explore the alpine world of Fiordland with botanist, Brian Rance. Take a walk along the Mt Burns Tarns Track, enjoy the spectacular views and learn about the amazing plants found there.

A deer darted through two hallways of a Mississippi school, startling students as they were arriving for the day.

Hey Guys, believe it or not, but the "Festive Season" is coming up fast, and so is The Riverton Christmas Twilight Market for 2017.

Residents of a small central Otago town hit by "catastrophic" flash floods are being urged to be ready to evacuate as the possibility of another storm looms.

Join in the Christmas sprit and come see the wonderful gingerbread house display and have some fun while grabbing a great bargain.

A new taxi service in Cromwell has proved so popular the co-owner goes to bed in her clothes.

"Wise sayings often fall on barren ground, but a kind word is never thrown away." - Arthur Helps

The Queenstown Lakes District Council will not seek a court declaration on the legal correctness of it's new practice of not notifying discretionary development consents in rural zones.

"It's kind of fun to do the impossible." - Walt Disney

Mud Mania is the perfect event for you to get down and dirty and totally covered in glorious mud, along with challenging yourself to the muddy obstacles.

"Trust yourself, you know more than you think you do." - Benjamin Spock

Smokers will have to butt out of the CBD under a new smokefree policy adopted at a meeting of the Invercargill City Council on Tuesday.

The annual Southland Rhododendron Festival is a popular family day out.

"Research is creating new knowledge." - Neil Armstrong

Wattie’s Cans for Good is back; the national can ‘collection, creation, education and donation’ campaign run by The Salvation Army in partnership with Wattie’s for New Zealand schools.

"Time is money." - Benjamin Franklin

The SBS Bank Tour of Southland is New Zealand’s leading multi-stage cycling tour that celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2016.

Drivers are having to be brought in from other parts of the country as Queenstown's revamped bus service failed to recruit enough staff. .

Welcome to Season 3 of New Zealand's largest and newest travelling event! The Extravaganza Fair!

"Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into a friend." - Martin Luther King, Jr.

Come and help plant native shrubs to encourage more pollinators to the sanctuary and celebrate Conservation Week 2017.

"Just because something doesn't do what you planned it to do doesn't mean it's useless." - Thomas A. Edison

A southern coastal resident is up in arms about highway flax control methods she says are a blight on the region's "clean, green" tourist image.

"With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts." -Eleanor Roosevelt

A Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) inspection of Invercargill City Council dog pound's euthanasia facilities has left it in the clear.

Spring is just around the corner but we are keeping the Winter Fun gliding through the year with the Ice Rink popping up in Invercargill during the School Holidays for Invercargill Spring Festival.

A small tornado has ripped through a backyard as gusts hitting 115kmh blew away roofs and windows in the Central Otago town of Clyde.

Magic’s Murray Lindsay is coming to a town near you as he kicks off a nationwide tour this weekend.

"Live as brave men; and if fortune is adverse, front its blows with brave hearts." - Marcus Tullius Cicero

Many of you wouldn't have seen Suzans fab shoe range so now is the perfect opportunity!! And straight back from approving new NOOZ designs so lots of NOOZ newness too!!

"Though we travel the world over to find the beautiful, we must carry it with us or we find it not." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Looking for a job may have got a step easier this week, with the Southland Pop Up Job Shop opening in Invercargill.

"We boil at different degrees." - Clint Eastwood

A walking and cycling trail being built between Invercargill and Bluff, which doubles as the final leg of the nationwide Te Araroa Trail, is a "complete waste of money," an Environment Southland councillor says.

Spend a night with some of the funniest comedians from this year’s NZ International Comedy Festival.

South Port will focus on upgrading infrastructure in the next 12 months, including a planned $5 million upgrade to its fuel input berth and a $2.2 million upgrade for its log storage.

Learn the basics of weaving Korowai with Robin Hill, taking home your own small Korowai after this weekend workshop. You will learn how to prepare feathers, the basic stitch and how to cast-on.

"If you aren't fired with enthusiasm, you will be fired with enthusiasm." - Vince Lombardi

Tickets can be purchased from the ICC Booking Office, any TicketDirect outlet or from the Mitre10 ticket kiosk in-store.

"Happiness is a direction, not a place." - Sydney J. Harris

It's the school that keeps growing.

"Good questions outrank easy answers." - Paul Samuelson

A frustrated group of Colac Bay residents grilled Southland District Council staff after becoming fed up with the lack of response to the erosion of the foreshore in the township.

Dr. Julie Bhosale is an internationally-renowned family wellbeing and nutrition expert, author, and speaker and her popular National Starting Solids Tour - with her new book 'The Nourished Baby' - is a must.

Level One Restaurant & Bar is proud to present the Corporate Singles Masquerade Evening.

"Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage." - Lao Tzu

Over 150 features and documentaries curated by a team of programmers who attend premier festivals in North America, Australia and Europe of the latest and brightest of national and world cinema will be shown on the grandest screens in 13 towns and cities around New Zealand.

"Travel becomes a strategy for accumulating photographs." - Susan Sontag

The number of homes issued with dangerous building notices will "grow" after heavy rain brought flooding to parts of Otago.

"The traveler sees what he sees, the tourist sees what he has come to see." - Gilbert K. Chesterton

Plans are in place to deter drone usage in Te Anau, after a spate of close calls with aircraft in recent months.

Chanelle & Friends have planned a huge massive enormous 14-date tour around Aotearoa to celebrate the release of The Little Green Turtle and Other Songs for Kids!

Mecca espresso cafe is holding a Biker's Brekkie on the last Sunday of every month. With an exceptional morning menu and motor related decor, this is an event not to be missed!

Mecca espresso cafe is holding a Biker's Brekkie on the last Sunday of every month. With an exceptional morning menu and motor related decor, this is an event not to be missed!

"Maybe this world is another planet's hell." - Aldous Huxley

Join for a Five course, Wine matched degustation dinner at Emberz Restaurant, guest speakers, Lucie and Brook Lawrence from Aurum winery in Cromwell.

"Diplomacy is the art of saying 'Nice doggie' until you can find a rock." - Will Rogers

A hidden surveillance camera has been set up in Cromwell to catch unauthorised poo-petrators.

"All men who have achieved great things have been great dreamers." - Orison Swett Marden

The first hit to land on a Google search for "shopping in Invercargill" is a local pawn shop, an Invercargill City Council staff member says.

School Holidays are just around the corner and once again, Animates is hosting some exciting activities to keep kids entertained!

A Christchurch to Invercargill passenger-train service is a step closer to making a historic comeback.

The Family Earthcraft Festival is a celebration of traditional crafts using natural materials - come along to learn about & try your hand at old style crafts, including felting, weaving, knitting, woodcraft, sewing, dying & spinning!

"I believe that the greatest gift you can give your family and the world is a healthy you." - Joyce Meyer

The Grille Cafe at Bill Richardson Transport World is holding a Petrolhead Breakfast on the first Sunday of every month. With an exceptional morning menu and motor related decor, this is an event not to be missed!

"Sometimes it's worse to win a fight than to lose." - Billie Holiday

Seven more brown trout have been found dead in a spawning stream near Arrowtown.

If you have ever wanted to experience the absolute extreme thrill of being driven 'flat out' by a professional driver in a fully race modified 400kw 6000cc V8 Holden race car. Then this is definitely for you!

The Frankton community sits at the eye of the Queenstown development storm. Now it has its own forum to debate and formulate ideas.

"The opposite of courage in our society is not cowardice, it is conformity." - Rollo May

The humble bluff oyster has come under threat after the discovery of a lethal parasite at two Stewart Island oyster farms.

"Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body." - Joseph Addison

Great monthly market held in the lovely town of Winton, Central Southland. Great family-friendly atmosphere, loads of amazing stalls and cafe. Pop along for a browse around.

"Courage is fire, and bullying is smoke." - Benjamin Disraeli

A local health campaign is encouraging Southland schools to choose water or plain milk over sugary drinks.

"Fantastic locally owned shop that is run by lovely, friendly staff who are always so helpful. Love the kids’ corner play area so I can shop while my daughters play. Such a range of wonderful products including many items you can’t find just anywhere." -Facebook user

"The standard of your report compared with others I have seen can only have me state WOW! You took this inspection on which was needed within 24 hours and you really over delivered for me. I wondered if the short time frame you had would compromise the quality of work, it did not. This report has given me all the pros and cons I need to be able to bid with confidence at auction. You will always be my first call when looking at future house purchases. Thanks again for your support" - Karen

"The best way to predict the future is to create it." - Peter Drucker

A spike in domestic incidents in Invercargill over the New Year ran counter to an otherwise positive vibe in the city over the festive period, police say.

To celebrate their 20th Anniversary, The Pink Floyd Experience returns to Australia and New Zealand in 2017 with a brand new show.

A road policing manager is saying the number of deaths on Southland roads is "simply unacceptable".

South Alive Night Food Markets are launching this summer in the South Alive Community Park.

"The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet." - Aristotle

Winter is becoming increasingly busy for tourist operators on Stewart Island, new figures show.

I love deadlines. I like the whooshing sound they make as they fly by. Douglas Adams Read more at: https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/d/douglasada134151.html

Part of the Fiordland summer events programme: Explore the alpine world of Fiordland with botanist Brian Rance. Walk along the Mt Burns Tarns Track, enjoy the spectacular views and learn about the amazing plants found there.

"Strength and growth come only through continuous effort and struggle." - Napoleon Hill

Monthly community market. Great friendly relaxed atmosphere. Loads of interesting and exciting stallholders join us each month displaying a large variety of items. There is always something new and different each month.

"I am grateful for what I am and have. My thanksgiving is perpetual." - Henry David Thoreau

This year, Riverton's Christmas Twilight market is looking to be bigger thean ever, with more stalls, more entertainment, and more fun activities.

The search for the last missing person who was on board a fishing boat which capsized in the Kaipara Harbour, killing seven, is due to resume shortly, police say.

Part of the Fiordland summer events programme: Explore the alpine world of Fiordland with botanist Brian Rance. Walk along the Mt Burns Tarns Track, enjoy the spectacular views and learn about the amazing plants found there.

Interislander Summer Festival race days are renowned for being the perfect place to relax. Swap your high heels and suits for shorts and jandals, gather the kids and come along.

The infection is spreading... Luminaire Entertainment presents the Invercargill Zombie Run.

“I am a new person. I now have my life back and I am not controlled by Tinnitus. People should be aware that there is help out there for people like me and that a diagnosis of Tinnitus is not a hopeless one, we don’t have to suffer and learn how to live with it. I have found the whole experience with Sincock & Till Audiology wonderful – I felt understood, supported and ultimately I now feel normal." - Gayle

5 Craft Beverages to be tasted. Nibbles provided during the tasting. Limited numbers bookings recommended. RSVP to Level One Restaurant & Bar.

Food and supply shortages are possible for Queenstown and across the South Island following Monday's magnitude 7.5 earthquake.

"No one saves us but ourselves. No one can and no one may. We ourselves must walk the path." - Buddha

Invercargill mayor Tim Shadbolt says 2016 has been the toughest year for the city in recent history.

"Friends show their love in times of trouble, not in happiness." - Euripides

Get out your leather jackets and pull on your bobby socks with Rydell High’s senior class of 1959. Grease is touring New Zealand - Just in time for your Christmas Party for 2016!

A major fireworks display for Invercargill is in the pipeline - but not until March next year.

This event takes you on a ride through the history of Motown like never before.

"Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony. " -Mahatma Gandhi

Southland needs to train and retain a skilled labour workforce – and some local businesses are establishing initiatives to keep young people in the region.

"If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader." - John Quincy Adams

Luminaire Entertainment presents the Invercargill Zombie Run.

"There is only one happiness in this life, to love and be loved." - George Sand

Exult is one of New Zealand’s leading training providers for the community sector.

“Great place to stay! Comfortable beds and friendly awesome customer service. The rooms were clean and the Lodge is conveniently located - an easy 10 minute walk to the city centre. We would stay there again in a heartbeat and highly recommend it.” - from one of our guest

New Zealand supermarkets have joined the fight against childhood obesity, signing up to a range of measures to support government backed initiatives.

Monthly community market. Great friendly relaxed atmosphere. Loads of interesting and exciting stallholders join us each month displaying a large variety of items. There is always something new and different each month.

Monthly community market. Great friendly relaxed atmosphere. Loads of interesting and exciting stallholders join us each month displaying a large variety of items. There is always something new and different each month.

A young Invercargill business owner says she could not have started her business so cheaply anywhere else.

"It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light." - Aristotle Onassis

A trucking company giant plans to upgrade its fuel stop in south Gore so all motorists can access it from State Highway 1.

"I believe much trouble would be saved if we opened our hearts more." - Chief Joseph

Attain your St John First Aid Level 1 certificate (valid for two years). Ideal for anyone who wants to learn basic first aid or needs to update their first aid qualification. Minimum qualification requirement for a workplace first aider.

A larger than expected crowd at the first Night Noodle Markets in Queenstown ran two vendors out of food and the bar out of beer.

Come down to South City for the second annual South City Street Party on Elles Road! Street food, Live music, Local business specials and Family fun.

"Let us always meet each other with smile, for the smile is the beginning of love." - Mother Teresa

This school holidays on Friday, September 30th at Repertory House Esk St Invercargill from 9.30 am sees one of the United Kingdoms leading children performers ‘Mr Yipadee’ Dean O’Brien come to town.

"Don't watch the clock; do what it does. Keep going." - Sam Levenson

South Alive has unveiled plans for the development of a $1.2 million community hub in south city.

"Only passions, great passions can elevate the soul to great things." - Denis Diderot

New Zealand Post is looking to make adjustments to rural deliveries in Southland, moving from six day delivery to five from November 1.

Come along to this introductory taster and learn some beginners Te Reo in a relaxed, friendly environment.

A building was left badly damaged after a landslide in Milford Sound.

"A dream doesn't become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination and hard work." - Colin Powell

Myross Bush School takes to the stage again in their annual production.

"Always remember that you are absolutely unique. Just like everyone else." - Margaret Mead

Southland Instrumental Competitors may attend this workshop on Saturday the 3rd of September 2016.

A staffing review at Idea Services in Invercargill could put the safety of dozens of employees at risk, the union representing them says.

We are looking for men from all walks of life who want to join us in saying “No more”, men who are strong enough to stand up and help put an end to violence within our whānau, our communities and our country. Together, we can make a change.

"It is better to be feared than loved, if you cannot be both." - Niccolo Machiavelli

Two Invercargill women are organising a walk with a difference.

Learn the powerful strategies that make a difference to your study. Through the use of simple, easy to apply and yet practical ideas, you can boost your own performance and your exam results.

It's not often that anything good comes out of a fatal car crash.

"It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye." - Antoine de Saint-Exupery

"From the beginning of the project when you were able to recommend architects, sub contractors, etc, through to the excellent work carried out by your team (with a special mention of your foreman Richard) and the delivery of the final product, we want you to know that we have been most impressed with your services. Your ability to save us precious dollars by sourcing competitive prices for sub contractors was appreciated. Your professional approach and your ability to provide precise quotations for all aspects of the work undertaken by you and your team, coupled with the high standard of workmanship and timely delivery of the completed product, has been of the highest standard. Building a house out of shipping containers is much more common in Christchurch since the earthquakes, but when we first approached you there was little local knowledge of the concept and I do not believe we could have achieved our goal without your assistance. The steepness of our site meant our house would always be a challenging contract and we knew we needed reliable tradesmen. We are absolutely delighted with the final result. We love living in our house and want to formally acknowledge your contribution to our dream home. It was a pleasure working with you." Yours faithfully Brian & Penny

Concerned Queenstown residents living in a subdivision where low levels of arsenic were discovered in nearby soil are planning to test their properties.

"The most dangerous creation of any society is the man who has nothing to lose." - James A. Baldwin

"Dot Bradshaw from New Zealand Modern School of Music has been tutoring me for the past five years. During this time I have progressed right up to Diploma level for theory of music. Dot has always made sure I have been well prepared for exams at all levels. She has been patient, kind and a brilliant teacher. It has been a pleasure to learn from Dot and I would recommend her to any musicians from entry level to advanced. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with Dot and wish her all the best for the future." - Sam

Fiddles, tin whistles, accordions, bodhrans, flutes, banjos, guitars...

"What's right isn't always popular. What's popular isn't always right." - Howard Cosell

This one-day workshop is open to participants from school years 7 to 13 (age 11 to 18), as well as teachers and youth workers who want to engage with The Outlook for Someday as a vehicle for sustainability film-making.

Heavy snow down to "low levels" is forecast for the Southern Lakes, Central Otago, Dunedin and Clutha from Wednesday.

A Beginner-Intermediate course to learn several aspects of cake decorating including types of icing, gum paste models, flowers, frills and bows.

For those wondering where winter had gone, rest assured, it is on the way to Southland.

"When you can't make them see the light, make them feel the heat." - Ronald Reagan

Experts say Southland's approach to dealing with air quality issues could be a model for the rest of New Zealand, as well as save lives and move the region towards a lower-carbon future.

Fiddles, tin whistles, accordions, bodhrans, flutes, banjos, guitars... Join us at Waxy O Shea’s Irish Bar for our monthly Irish Music Sunday Session.

"We all need people who will give us feedback. That's how we improve." - Bill Gates

The NZ Super Fund has yet to formally decide what to do with its multimillion-dollar buy-up of Southland dairy farms.

Attain your Workplace First Aid Certificate (valid for two years) gaining valuable first aid skills and the confidence to assist others in need.

Plumbing, building, mechanics – there's a lot of skill to be explore in trades, and Southland students are taking it all in.

"You can't blame gravity for falling in love." - Albert Einstein

All American favourite foods events from buffalo wings to popcorn shrimps Level One Restaurant and Bar will celebrate like it's the 4th of July (on Friday 8th July) followed by live entertainment from Dene Robert Allen.

"We do not remember days, we remember moments." - Cesare Pavese

"The coal boiler unit is brilliant. This is an excellent and cheap way to heat the house and hot water." - Paul

With the stroke of a pen, the number of people unemployed dropped by 12,000, while the number in the workforce has also dropped.

Ladies – and brave men keen to avoid domestic meltdowns by not attending – Menopause the Musical is set to pour more blood, sweat (think buckets) and tears on New Zealand as this award-winning, box office record-breaking show returns for a national tour in August and September.

"Love isn't something you find. Love is something that finds you." - Loretta Young

Learn the kaupapa (rules) of harakeke (flax) and gain confidence whilst completing your own flax woven product, sharing knowledge in a relaxed environment.

Angry residents in the Invercargill suburb of Strathern want the Invercargill City Council to take action against people driving on the grass reserve separating Scott and Moulson streets.

"Start by doing what's necessary; then do what's possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible." - Francis of Assisi

"We engaged JL Accounting,being recommended to us by a retired accountant, to investigate the Accounts of several small cafes we were interested in, and help us determine which one was a viable business for us to buy. They fulfilled this brief with professionalism and enthusiasm. We found them easy to communicate with,and always responsive to our requests. We continue to use them for our business and personal Accounting." - Sally and Graeme

Southland's most popular family event is back again in the July school holidays jam-packed with hundreds of hands-on activities!

Just two weeks into the official start of winter, Invercargill and Gore have already exceeded the National Environmental Standards for air quality.

WellSouth Primary Health Network is offering community education for residents of Winton and the surrounding area with Type 2 Diabetes.

Silver Fern Farms has spoken out publicly to say there are no plans to close its plants in Gore and Ashburton.

"It always seems impossible until its done." - Nelson Mandela

Plans to recover 13 vehicles that provided shelter for a group of people for more than 20 hours in Central Otago have been delayed again.

"My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country. " - John F. Kennedy

"We had our patio paved with Premier Truestone pavers in May 2015. The customer service we got from Allison at Premier was outstanding! Possibly the best customer service from a company we have ever experienced. Allison was extremely helpful in answering all our numerous enquiries. She sent us several free paver samples which was very useful for deciding which pavers would suit our property best. Allison also recommended a local paver registered to work with Premier Truestone pavers which we were grateful for and he did an excellent job. Allison was friendly and informative and went out of her way to help us with the whole process of getting our patio paved. The surprise gift of chocolates and wine at the end was a fine touch to top it all. We are very happy with our beautiful new patio and wouldn't hesitate to recommend Premier Truestone pavers and Premier service to others". - Tiina and Chris

The alpine road where 38 four wheel drive enthusiasts were trapped in snow drifts and blizzard conditions on Sunday night will remain open until Queen's Birthday weekend.

"Life is ten percent what happens to you and ninety percent how you respond to it." - Lou Holtz

Life is too short to be on the wrong path! What if there were a few simple steps you could take that would dramatically change the course of your life?

Monthly community market. Great friendly relaxed atmosphere. Loads of interesting and exciting stallholders join us each month displaying a large variety of items. There is always something new and different each month.

Increasing use of cell phones and text messaging by Southland drivers is concerning police road safety staff.

A Siamese cat recently cited by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's oldest living cat did not live to enjoy the title.

On the streets, on roofs and in buildings, the White Night offers free, public entertainment over one night

"God could not be everywhere, and therefore he made mothers." -Rudyard Kipling

International pop star and song writer Ed Sheeran has been spotted in Queenstown bars.

Presented as part of the Southland Arts Festival, this delightful play is a treat for children and adults alike.

LONDON (Reuters) - There was no shortage of superlatives on Tuesday after little Leicester City were crowned champions of the world's richest soccer league. New fans sprung up worldwide overnight, but few could explain the season's extraordinary events.

Invercargill's storm drainage systems are below the New Zealand standard - but city leaders say improving them would cost too much money.

"Imagination will often carry us to worlds that never were. But without it we go nowhere." -Carl Sagan

A United States tourist, who was believed to be lost in the bush in Queenstown overnight, has contacted police to say she is safe.

New original work by the brightest choreographers. Same time, same place. Right Now. This annual performance season is all about supporting the ideas of emerging dance-makers – giving them a platform to experiment and thrive.

"A beautiful woman delights the eye; a wise woman, the understanding; a pure one, the soul." -Minna Antrim

This is our final stop on our journey from Cape Reinga in a convoy of electric cars!

Getting a bunk on the Te Araroa trail in Southland is proving difficult as the trail attracts more walkers.

LONDON (Reuters) - A high-tech marine drone scouring the depths of Scotland's Loch Ness for one of nature's most elusive beasts has found a "monster" - but not the one it was looking for.

Monthly community market. Great friendly relaxed atmosphere. Loads of interesting and exciting stallholders join us each month displaying a large variety of items. There is always something new and different each month.

An ammonia leak which threatened to force the evacuation of Bluff has been contained, the fire service says.

Some Southland school principals are nervous about new health and safety rules coming into force next week and say a degree of uncertainty remains.

"One of the most beautiful qualities of true friendship is to understand and to be understood." -Lucius Annaeus Seneca

A parliamentary select committee has raised concerns about the potential risk to human life from shark cage diving operations around Stewart Island.

The Last Season Pop Up Roadshow is hitting Invercargill! $Million of new stock! With up to 90% off a massive range of top brands, there will be something for everyone. You don't want to miss out on this!

A Southland Hospital patient who violently attacked staff members a week ago is still being closely monitored at the hospital to prevent her attacking any more people.

A 5k that is more about having fun and making memories, and an opportunity to support the Cancer Society Relay for Life. Ready Set Glow!!

The ICC Surf to City is a fun, participation based event, offering 12km, 6km or 3km distances that can be run, walked, or cycled.

Residents say the peaceful seaside village of Seacliff, about 30 kilometres north of Dunedin, is in shock following the discoveries on Tuesday.

The historic 1870s structure is in the process of having a new aluminium roof built over the workshop where the diesel-fuelled generators used to be before automation in 1989.

"The way to love anything is to realize that it may be lost." -Gilbert K. Chesterton

(Reuters) - A crew of goats brought in to devour invasive plants at a popular park in Oregon's state capital, Salem, have been fired because they ate indiscriminately, cost nearly five times as much as human landscapers and smelled far worse, a city official said on Friday.

A vibrant wee market with a great variety of products. Browse thru the awesome stalls such as wooden toys, plants, mosaics, jewellery, spices, natural balms and cards.

Balclutha police are looking at similarities between the recent South Otago High School bomb hoax and the spate of six threats made throughout the country on Wednesday.

NEW YORK (Reuters) - A British cathedral sought to reassure visitors on Monday that they could still view a massive sculpture following a Facebook post by the statue's creator saying the church had moved it because people kept bumping into it while texting.

"The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness." -John Muir

The Stripping Expo is a DIY paint and varnish stripping exhibition travelling regionally throughout New Zealand.

A 22-year-old United States student may have had a better chance of survival after falling from a hostel fire escape if a CT scanner had been based at the Queenstown Lakes District Hospital.

(Reuters) - A wild elephant went on a rampage in a village in India's eastern West Bengal state on Wednesday, damaging around 100 structures, villagers said.

The Southern Field Days, held at Waimumu (12km from Gore), is the biggest event on the farming calendar for the South Island and the second largest field days in New Zealand, attracting just under 40,000 visitors over three days.

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - A skinny sea lion pup with a taste for the finer things in life turned up on Thursday inside a fancy San Diego restaurant, where it settled down into a booth.

Three new independently-owned Invercargill businesses are banking on a local touch to set themselves apart from franchises and online competitors.

It is not enough to have a good mind; the main thing is to use it well.

Welcome to the 7th annual Southland Buskers Festival, the region’s most accessible, humorous and entertaining event. We’re back from January 28- 31 with three days and nights of non-stop fun courtesy of a fantastic, talented lineup - including a few all-stars of the worldwide street performance community.

BANGKOK (Reuters) - A craze for lifelike dolls thought to bring good luck is sweeping Thailand, reflecting widespread anxiety as the economy struggles and political uncertainty persists nearly two years after a coup.

Emergency services dealt with a 50m oil slick on State Highway 1 after a truck broke down on a hill near Edendale on Tuesday morning.

MILWAUKEE (Reuters) - Wisconsin hunters could choose blaze pink protective wear, a first for a U.S. state, if Governor Scott Walker signs a bill intended to draw more women to the sport.

Enjoy local talent as they showcase the best in Southland sounds.

Businesses in Invercargill's South City are being intimidated by groups of children loitering around with claims that vandalism and theft is also on the rise.

(Reuters) - Gifts of sex toys, glitter and nail polish are not what the armed protesters who seized a U.S. wildlife refuge in Oregon were expecting when they put out a public call for supplies to help get them through the winter.

Enjoy local talent as they showcase the best in Southland sounds.

Southland is a history-rich region and Winton, its oldest inland town, is full of many gems.

Over six sessions, the Early Years Toolbox is designed to encourage you in your role as a parent. No-one will influence your child’s future more than you will.

Te Anau has been hit by an "unusual" crime spree on two consecutive nights.

"And now we welcome the new year. Full of things that have never been."

Heather McManamy, the US cancer patient and mum who wrote greeting cards for her daughter's future milestones, has died.

Attain your Workplace First Aid Certificate (valid for two years) gaining valuable first aid skills and the confidence to assist others in need.

Temperatures at the Invercargill Airport reached a high of 27.9 degrees Celsius on Monday, MetService meteorologist Lisa Murray said. Gore reached 27.4C, while Lumsden hit 27.6C.

Riders from throughout the country converge in Invercargill for one last hit-out before the Track National Championships begin in earnest. Riders of all ages compete in a variety of fun but competitive events over two nights before taking part in the Ascot Park Hotel Criteriums on the Sunday.

Kyle Lockwood's black, white and blue Silver Fern design has been confirmed as the option going head-to-head with the present New Zealand flag in a binding referendum next year but the result has drawn mixed reactions from Southlanders.

See beautiful roses on display from members of the Southland Rose Society

Students at an English high school have held a funeral for their classroom model skeleton after discovering it was in fact not a model and belonged to a real person.

The deaths of two trampers who drowned in Mt Aspiring National Park when they left their groups are "disturbingly similar", a coroner says.

This event has been held annually on the first Saturday in December since 1988, and follows the 60km Kepler Track. Starting at the Control Gates of Lake Te Anau the route follows an easy first 6km before it takes a steady climb to the Luxmore Hut.

(Reuters) - A Canadian college student caught at a border checkpoint in August 2014 with 51 live turtles in his pants pleaded guilty to six smuggling charges on Tuesday in U.S. District Court in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

May and June appear twice at the expense of July and August in some copies of a new Invercargill City Council calendar.

A huge array of stallholders with something for everyone, all under one roof, plus a Monster garage sale in an adjoining room. Also, a play area for preschool kids, food and drinks for sale, Monster Raffles and a Monster Baking stall. More information available soon. Registrations are now open.

"Be brave. Take risks. Nothing can substitute experience."

Southland police are calling for information as they look for two men who are wanted for arrest.

A Capella Singers invite you to come and celebrate the Christmas season with the traditional service that was created in 1880 and is most famously performed by the Kings College, Cambridge choir.

LONDON (Reuters) - From a dog skate-boarding through a tunnel of human legs to a man holding lit candles in his mouth, people around the world have been marking Guinness World Records Day with a range of quirky feats.

Southland is facing a firefighter shortage ahead of what is expected to be the worst fire season in nearly 20 years

The Fuzz Proudly Present: Quintessential 90’s Acoustic Goodness

'Heavy hearts, like heavy clouds in the sky, are best relieved by the letting of a little water."

Employers seeking to attract migrant staff to Southland will gather on Wednesday to discuss employment opportunities.

Come to Cornerstone Church’s annual carnival for an amazing day! This free event is open to every family and every person. Grab a sausage and ice cream and jump into the massive range of activities to do throughout the day with your family.

Founder and chief executive of Nga Kete Matauranga Pounamu Charitable Trust, Tracey Wright-Tawha has helped thousands of people access much-needed health care and social support during the past 15 years.

JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Claws were out on Monday after an Israeli cabinet minister proposed sending stray dogs and cats to another country as an alternative to government-funded efforts to sterilize them.

Angels & Demons Halloween Party

"We are no longer happy so soon as we wish to be happier." -Walter Savage Landor

Environment Southland has investments in oil and gas activities to the tune of $520,000 as part of its portfolio, a report to the council says.

Book in now to watch all the rugby live. $20 Breakfast special while you're watching or after the game. Contact Kirsty to book now 03 218 2829 — at Kelvin Hotel Invercargill.

(Reuters) - An off-duty Maryland police officer charged with biting a man's testicles during a fight is no longer working for the department, a spokeswoman said on Monday.

A Living Waters partnership is truly coming to life in Southland.

"With the past, I have nothing to do; nor with the future. I live now."

Due to Popular Demand - the Encore Performance - 1 Night Only!

Farmers are worried for their livelihoods, as Environment Southland looks to tighten rules on water quality.

"Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does." -William James

ORLANDO, Fla. (Reuters) - A love triangle between bald eagles that played out before thousands of fans on a live webcam has ended badly in Florida with the death of Ozzie, longtime mate of Harriet, according to a Florida wildlife clinic.

A large percentage of southerners who committed suicide were likely to be farmers, Southland Federated Farmers president Allan Baird said.

A fun weekend of photography in Gore ... where Action is the Attraction!

The death of two trampers in separate incidents in the Mt Aspiring National Park have been called "disturbingly similar".

"Man is still the most extraordinary computer of all."

SALMON, Idaho (Reuters) - An Idaho high school is requiring its cheerleaders to wear leggings or sweatpants under their uniforms after finding the short skirts were not suited for stairs or sitting without exposing the buttocks of teen girls, an administrator said on Thursday.

The past always looks better than it was. It's only pleasant because it isn't here."

The Southland sky has again been dazzled by a brilliant Aurora Australis display.

BOSTON (Reuters) - Researchers who studied the consequences of intense kissing, the global use of the word "huh?" and how badly bee stings hurt on different parts of the body were among the winners of this year's Ig Nobel prizes for comical scientific achievements.

Be|Longing - a verbatim play about the experiences of migrants

Police believe they know who is responsible for a serious assault in Otautau that left a man with serious facial injuries.

(Reuters) - A semi-trailer hauling thousands of pounds of hamburger crashed and caught fire early Thursday on a western Michigan highway causing an extensive backup amid the smell of burning meat, police said.

"For sleep, riches and health to be truly enjoyed, they must be interrupted."

Considerable adverse effects will result from a Dublin Bay development proposed by celebrity chef Annabel Langbein and her husband, Ted Hewetson, a Queenstown Lakes district plan watchdog says.

Considerable adverse effects will result from a Dublin Bay development proposed by celebrity chef Annabel Langbein and her husband, Ted Hewetson, a Queenstown Lakes district plan watchdog says.

(Reuters) - An anchor for Fox News Channel has sued Hasbro Inc for more than $5 million over the company's sale of a plastic toy hamster that shares her name, and which she says resembles her.

If you have enjoyed all things creative in the past, now is the time to make the most of it. Great NZ Events proudly brings to you ‘The Cake and Craft Show’, the flagship destination for New Zealand Enterprise, Craft, Inspiration, Cake Decorating and handmade items.

An Italian tourist involved in a fatal crash in Northern Southland on Friday has been charged by police.

"Our patience will achieve more than our force."

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - A Southern California man who picked up a rattlesnake to pose for a photograph was badly hurt when the reptile bit him on the hand, a Los Angeles television station reported.

Wanaka businesses are welcoming a proposed change to Easter trading laws that should lift shopping restrictions in the tourist resort by 2017.

Madrid (AFP) - An animal rights activist was beaten with a duck by a Spanish woman defending one of the country's most bizarre and controversial festival traditions.

"I have found the paradox, that if you love until it hurts, there can be no more hurt, only more love."

Police are disappointed with the high numbers of drink drivers nabbed on Dunedin streets over the weekend.

Every winter the NZ International Film Festival (NZIFF) brings the best and brightest of world cinema straight from the international circuit to the giant screens of New Zealand. NZIFF is run by charitable trust, NZ Film Festival Trust, and held annually in Gore (from 13 August).

"The moments of happiness we enjoy take us by surprise. It is not that we seize them, but that they seize us."

Southland is unlikely to reach double-digit temperatures before Thursday, as temperatures plunge well below freezing at night.

Live pro wrestling entertainment comes to Invercargill on Saturday 8th August at the Invercargill Working Mens Club (Corinthian Conventions Centre).

"Opportunities are like sunrises. If you wait too long, you miss them."

Southland needed some good news on Monday and New Zealand Aluminium Smelters and Meridian Energy delivered it announcing a revised Tiwai power deal likely to bolster the entire region's fortunes.

A fun, interactive and inspiring 4-week series for smart and soulful women who want to be clear-headed, lighthearted, match-fit for life and ready to take the fight to the tiger come Spring.

Impossible is a word to be found only in the dictionary of fools.

The Gore District Council is aiming to reopen parts of the Gore Aquatic Centre on Wednesday after a major electrical fault forced the shutdown of the pool and ice skating rink at the weekend.

Enjoy an intimate evening with messages from the other side with renowned psychic and medium Diana Whittaker.

Residents are furious after finding leg traps near the popular Invercargill estuary walkway - prompting the city council to scour the area for more traps.

Invercargill Musical Theatre in association with the Invercargill Licensing Trust and the ILT Foundation presents The Phantom of The Opera

Snow potentially causing "major disruptions" is coming to the South Island this weekend.

Love is not altogether a delirium, yet it has many points in common therewith. Read more at