Rebecca Fox

It is "inevitable" a third councillor will be needed in the Otago Regional Council constituency of Dunstan to help represent the fastest growing part of Otago, Cr Michael Deaker says.

They may only be small things, but in the Turner family hearing son Caleb laugh, clap his hands or even cry is "priceless".

Mosgiel may not experience as many days of high air pollution as some Central Otago towns but residents still need to be aware of the issue, the Otago Regional Council says.

Insulation companies are hiring during a tough recession due to the effect of the Government's subsidised plan to make New Zealand's houses more energy efficient.

The Otago Regional Council may appeal to government ministers in an effort to change a conservation order, after a significant part of the resource consent applications for Shotover Delta flood protection work was turned down.

It is unlikely work on Dunedin's Leith Lindsay flood protection scheme will begin before the summer of 2010-11.

Otago Regional Council staff have been asked to look into the tax implications of the payments the council is making towards the Forsyth Barr Stadium.

Dealing with children who have great expectations of the latest in technology, clothes, holidays and sports equipment can be a difficult challenge for parents in tough economic times.

The Otago Regional Council's first payment towards the Forsyth Barr Stadium will come from its reserves, as its borrowing arrangements have not yet been finalised.

Concerns about maintaining recreational access and the wildlife experience in the Mt Aspiring National Park have been raised at the start of hearings on the park's draft management plan.

New Zealand's small native birds will soon be able to be tracked, thanks to tiny devices being developed at the University of Otago physics department.

Orokonui Ecosanctuary's kaka chick has taken to the treetops and while it still has some wobbly landings, it is growing up fast and needs a name.