Stories by Tess Brunton
News
Tourism businesses committed to hospitality as AI, technology grow
Tourism operators say they do not want new technology to jeopardise the manaakitanga they offer visitors.
Hotel choosing robots over staff: 'No training, no leave'
Imagine virtual wine tastings from 31,000 feet, robot room service and exploring countries from the comfort of a couch.
Second petition calls on Gore District Council CEO to resign
Stephen Parry - who fell out with Mayor Ben Bell - is still in the post while a replacement is being found.
'Think carefully': Otago Uni students warned of expulsion over flat initiations
The University of Otago fears someone could be killed or seriously hurt at flat initiations as events become increasingly associated with absurd, dangerous and depraved behaviour.
Climate activist sentenced to 125 hours of community work for forging email
The judge denied Rosemary Penwarden's bid for a discharge without conviction, saying it was clear she did not regret her actions. Penwarden's lawyer said she was trying to protest using satire.
Queenstown businesses angry about delay as gastro cases double
Queenstown restaurant owners are angry about the delay in being warned about an outbreak of cryptosporidium in the tourist town. Audio
South Dunedin residents keen to hear from scientists what climate change has in store
The South Dunedin basin - home to more than 13,000 people - is at risk from climate change, flooding and rising groundwater. Audio
What to expect from the weather as the seasons change
Farmers are bracing for hotter, drier and windier months ahead as the return to El Niño heralds possible drought conditions.
Wildfire season could kick off earlier this year, FENZ warns
The danger of wildfires is on the rise with forecasts of a hotter, drier, windier summer.
'Very much a rebound': Anticipation for West Coast summer high
Tourism is riding high on the West Coast, and locals reckon 'the Summer of the Coast' is just around the corner. Audio
Almost a decade in the making, Clutha trail gets 63km extension
It is hoped a new Otago trail extension will get thousands on their bikes and take local communities along for the ride.
'An eerie feeling': Scale, speed of Canada's wildfires prove challenging for Kiwi firefighters
New Zealand firefighters describe days turning into night and swamps on fire while they were battling the wildfires. Audio
'An immediate uplift' - World Cup's boost for tourism
Expectations were high ahead of the FIFA Women's World Cup, and tourism businesses say the tournament has definitely exceeded them. Audio
'Super excited': Dunedin fans determined to outdo Eden Park in support for Football Ferns
Dunedin football fans are fizzing ahead of hosting the Football Ferns' crucial showdown against Switzerland this Sunday. Audio
Camping an affordable way for Kiwis to have a holiday this summer
Despite the cost-of-living crisis, the tourism industry remains optimistic that many Kiwis will still hit the road this summer.
Tourism operators report big boost from winter school holidays
Tourism operators say the winter school holidays have brought a much welcome boon to numbers during a traditionally quieter season. Audio
'Compromised patient care' and 'unsafe waiting times' at Christchurch ED - union delegate
Christchurch Hospital's emergency department is under resourced and under pressure, and it is impacting patient care, the nurses union says.
Long-term plan for Southland unveiled tackling region's challenges and opportunities
Southland has unveiled a bright vision for its future regardless of whether Tiwai Point aluminium smelter closes or not.
Queenstown revamp celebrated, but union points to rental housing crisis
Queenstown's multi-million dollar revamped streets were officially opened with protesters present, but not the prime minister.
Tourism boss asks for more taxpayer money to fund plans
The government is being urged to pitch in to help communities fund their visions for managing their destinations.
Government can't stop University of Otago cutting staff - PM
Prime Minister Chris Hipkins faced a grilling by University of Otago students during his trip to Ōtepoti on Friday.
Tourism businesses disappointed by another false start to DOC's booking system
Trampers and tourism businesses were yet again disappointed, as DOC's Great Walks booking system had another false start.
Karamea community excited to welcome people back for Great Walk
A small West Coast community says fully reopening the Heaphy Track will breathe fresh life back into their town.
Tourism operators facing lower demand after extreme weather
Tourism businesses in cyclone-hit regions say the welcome mat is out, but not enough people have come in.