Dunedin Mayor Dave Cull is about to travel to China, to build closer local government ties and discuss economic development.

He's participating in the first mayoral forum between New Zealand and China, following agreements reached last year.

The forum will focus on growing tourism, education and primary industries in both countries.

Ten other New Zealand mayors are involved, set to build relationships with their Chinese counterparts.

Dunedin's long been a sister city to Shanghai, where Cull will also do business while in China.

A John McGlashan College pupil is about to represent New Zealand in an Australian cross-country competition.

He's among a small group of kiwis selected for the contest.

And it's helping him to fulfil a lifelong dream.

Among the latest international films showing in the city is one with strong local links.

It's been produced and directed by a former Dunedin resident.

And she's excited about returning home for its southern showcase.

Locals are gearing up for an international relief effort in Nepal.

Twenty southerners are set to join Habitat for Humanity's charitable house build in the disaster-stricken country.

And they're aiming for an ambitious outcome.