A senior Queenstown police officer is facing a code of conduct inquiry after being caught speeding in the Kawarau Gorge.

A woman seeking a late-night snack was shocked to find a demonic face carved into one of her tinned pears.

Queenstown is preparing for the worst as the swollen Lake Wakatipu threatens to burst its banks and flood the CBD.

Queenstown businesses are being warned to brace for potential flooding as more heavy rain is predicted over the next two days.

More stranded trampers will be flown out of flooded walking tracks a day after 120 were evacuated from the Milford Track.

Boaties are being asked to check their vessels for hitchhiking seaweed, after a noxious Japanese kelp turned up in Fiordland.

Nearly 30 South Island commercial fish dealers are being investigated for alleged illegal trading.

Cruise Invercargill by Harley and then thrive on the unexpected as you explore the diverse delights of Southland, writes Jacqui Madelin.

Chinese-backed interests are reported to also be looking at up to 100 dairy farms in Otago and Southland, plus a factory.

Mayor Tim Shadbolt believes Invercargill voters would favour his political experience over the singing career of challenger Suzanne Prentice.

Time-consuming and unproductive "distractions" involving Tim Shadbolt's council are behind Suzanne Prentice's bid to become Invercargill's new mayor.