Rebecca Fox

Any apprehension Peter Bodeker may have had about leaving the primary sector for an organisation perceived as ''green'' has been put to rest in the past year.

Dunedin might have had an intense thunderstorm but more rain across a greater area is needed if Otago's rivers are to get back to normal, water scientists says.

A dislocated arm may have slowed him down but Adam Chambers is still determined to walk the length of New Zealand to raise money for the Fred Hollows Foundation.

Concerns the Otago Regional Council's science-based capability, especially around water quality, may be curtailed by the organisation's restructure, have been raised by Cr Bryan Scott.

The owner of a dog which chased a sea lion from the sand dunes on an Otago Peninsula beach to the sea has been granted diversion.

Isavena Vallduvi might have an injured leg but her days just got brighter with a move into Dunedin Hospital's new children's ward.

Just how much investigative work the Otago Regional Council is committing to under the triennial agreement between the region's local authorities needs some clarification, Cr David Shepherd says.

A 52-year Mosgiel tradition ends this year as the last Meenan to run the Meenan Dance Centre hangs up her ballet slippers.

More studies are needed before the true impact of seismic surveys on small marine mammals such as porpoises and dolphins is known, Prof Paul Thompson, of the University of Aberdeen, says.

A range of specifically selected and recommended self-help books are now available on prescription to help people dealing with issues such as stress, anxiety and depression.

A 1080 poisoning programme may be needed in Otago's beech forests next year to protect endangered species from a potential pest plague, Doc says.

Nelson Mandela's death may unite South Africa for a time but a struggle within the African National Congress will follow over who will inherit his legacy, Prof Philip Nel, of the University of Otago, says.

Water restrictions could be imminent, the Otago Regional Council warns as the region's river levels drop.

A 65-year-old woman is in Dunedin Hospital with facial injuries after a home invasion in Kaka Point, near Balclutha, last night.