Thai chef overjoyed that he can stay

JOHN BISSET, Timaru Herald

Thumbs up: Sukhothai owner Ang Soontarakulruxsa, at rear, celebrates with chef Wirun Boonprasit after he receives special approval from Associate Minister of Immigration Kate Wilkinson to live in New Zealand.

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I only had six weeks to study for it as I was told last minute. Most people get a year to study for it. Wirun Boonprasit.

A LACK of rain, especially in the foothills, means stretches of many lowland rivers are going underground and flowing through the shingle.

Irrigation restrictions are coming into force as South Canterbury rivers dry up.

On the Waihao River and on groundwater directly connected to it, irrigation has stopped. Most irrigators on the Tengawai River are on full restrictions.

Central South Island Fish and Game officer Hamish Stevens said there was enough flow for the wellbeing of fish at the moment.

On the Hakataramea, Marerewhenua, Temuka and Pareora rivers, most permit holders are allowed to take only half their allocation.

Mr Stevens said a fish rescue was being held in the Hakataramea next week and, going on previous years, a good recovery was expected.

For those wanting to go swimming in the Pareora, the dam is the best option because the lower section, including Brassels Bridge, is down to isolated pools. Mr Stevens said information from people travelling up the rivers about where there were stranded fish was invaluable.