Hamish MacLean

Parts of Otago could experience mega-floods, up to 40 more days over 30degC a year, and up to 40 fewer frosts a year by the end of the century if greenhouse gas emissions go unchecked.

A 27-year-old man was found on the banks of the Waitaki River 19 hours after he was reported missing, due to the ‘‘brilliant’’ efforts of those involved in the search for him.

An emerging housing crunch in Oamaru requires a multi-agency response - but there could be some relief for lower income and first-time buyers through a new district plan, Waitaki;s mayor says.

Outside protected areas, the world’s smallest penguin is in trouble. In Oamaru, where conservation work supports two flourishing sanctuaries for little penguins, research is under way to learn whether chicks hatched outside sanctuaries measure up to their protected counterparts.