LWB_issue 895

A fair slice of the cake

We want Queenstown workers to have a voice.

So often we hear the views of groups who are very concerned with supporting local businesses, but for whom workers seem a disposable resource rather than real people and families who also deserve to live healthy, fulfilling lives in the town they keep running. We’ve been telling the other side of the story and advocating for workers to be planned with, rather than planned for.

One of the most critical issues is the lack of affordable accommodation.

Local workers Hannah Sullivan and Lindsay Waterfield have organised the Queenstown Housing Initiative protests to draw attention to the appalling plight of local employees living in their cars and tents - homeless in a town of such extreme wealth because greed has trumped common sense and decency.

They have strategies worth pursuing: strong regulation of AirbnBs and empty housing in the district, using a percentage of hotel rooms for workers accommodation, emergency housing being provided by QLDC, and more employer supplied housing that is fit for purpose - not just another way to make more money. International models show that these strategies can be successfully put into action.

We think decent wages are a vital part of solving the issues long term, so that workers can actually afford to make choices about how and where they want to live, rather than being shipped into temporary accommodation then moved on once the season is up.

Queenstown people are not just tech bros, tourists and the ultra-rich. We are drivers, teachers, librarians, nurses, cleaners, builders, hospo and retail workers - we are the oil that keeps this town running.

The Queenstown Workers Collective have set up a website mySlice to bring transparency and fairness to the local job market. Many local jobs are not advertised listing the pay, forcing applicants to go in blind. Backpacker and migrant workers are doubly vulnerable, as they are less likely to have a good understanding of what the standard pay rates should be in their sector, their rights as workers, or the legal obligations of employers, which leaves them ripe for exploitation. We support our migrant colleagues so that they can become a valued part of our community.

We applaud good work practices, celebrate our best employers, and believe positive employee experiences will make local businesses stronger. But we also bring attention to substandard conditions, inadequate wages, and illegal practices in some workplaces that need to stop.

We encourage all local workers to join their union, to use mySlice to inform and empower themselves, and look forward to more people joining the Queenstown Workers Collective to help make this place a better home for the people that keep this town ticking.

Simon Edmunds - Queenstown Workers Collective

Megan Duncan, Karine Robertson (owner), Andy Thompson (owner) and Jono Hitchcox at the launch of the Gibbston Tavern Tasting Room “Taste the Region” celebrating local Wines, Gin, Liquers & Beers.

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First funding step towards Green-town Lakes

By Paul Taylor

Visitors and businesses can now contribute directly to Queenstown Lakes’ planned regenerative future through a pioneering community fund.

Destination Queenstown and Lake Wānaka Tourism have today launched community funding platforms, Love Queenstown and Love Wānaka, which will ask for voluntary donations of money or effort.

Funds raised will be available via grants to local charitable organisations working to improve Queenstown Lakes’ environment through climate, conservation, and biodiversity initiatives. All decisions on grants will be made by an independent panel.

And, crucially, a portion of the funds raised will be invested into an endowment fund, to ensure long-term, substantial funding opportunities into the future. That will be managed by the Wakatipu Community Foundation.

Destination Queenstown Chief Executive Mat Woods says the Love Queenstown and Love Wānaka platforms are the first project to come to life from the district’s regenerative tourism strategy, ‘Travel to a Thriving Future’. The strategy set the ambitious goal of making Queenstown Lakes’ visitor industry carbon zero by 2030, and was endorsed by the Queenstown Lakes District Council in February.

Woods says: “This is a really big day for us.

“We all truly love this place, have a connection to this place, and want to protect it for our future generations.

“When it comes to tackling the climate crisis, it is going to take a broad, diverse, and well-resourced movement. We know that there are many passionate people wanting to act, but just don’t know where to begin. These platforms have been set up to connect our visitors to projects that are making a difference.”

Visitors through Queenstown Airport will be made aware of the project as soon as they arrive, or leave, with installations detailing the values of the region, the background of these initiatives, and how they can get involved. District-wide, participating businesses will have both physical and digital points where donations can be made.

It is hoped the project can raise millions of dollars over the years to support the work of local environmental charities. But it’s not just money the visitors can contribute, the project invites them to volunteer alongside local environmentalists too.

“While we don’t have all the answers, we believe that the answers are out there and that we are committed to being a place that is understanding of the level of urgency and that is willing to experiment and learn,” Woods says.

“No matter how big or small, donations will help support existing projects, as well as new ideas and new technologies.”

Project co-ordinator Ash Bickley says the team has been working on the platforms for a little over a year, following the idea being suggested by former Lake Wānaka Tourism chair Mark Morrison, who owns Wildwire in Wanaka.

“This is a starting point,” Bickley says. “There is so much scope for these initiatives to evolve and to become really key parts of our industry, the way that we do tourism here, and what we’d like to see as the future of our place.

“At the core, Love Wānaka and Love Queenstown connect our visitors and our industry to projects of value in this place, supporting our community’s efforts to protect and preserve the natural environment.”

Bickley says businesses too will be able to support the project in several ways. They can champion the platforms and inform their customers, communicating their own values as a business and that of the region. And they can also make financial contributions or partner with the charitable organisations to provide ongoing support.

Another major aim is that the visitors themselves spread the word about the initiative and Queenstown Lakes environmental plans, when they return home after their trips.

The destination management plan, which was born out of two years of community consultation, sets the blueprint for Queenstown Lakes locals and visitors to go beyond reducing environmental impacts and begin to restore, repair and regenerate the natural systems.

We are searching for exceptional people to join the Millbrook Resort team.

Project co-ordinator Ash Bickley with Lake Wanaka Tourism boss Tim Barke, Destination Queenstown boss Mat Woods, and Wanaka Wildwire’s Mark Morrison.

Wanaka Police crackdown on spate of shoplifting

By Sue Fea

Wanaka Police are taking a hard line on shoplifters after grocery and retail stores in the town have been hit hard in recent months.

Wanaka Sergeant Kim Chirnside says groceries have been the main target.

“Supermarkets are being hit repeatedly with people stealing groceries,” he says. “We’ve had an influx in these cases during January, February and March.” Part of that increase may possibly be attributed to an increase in detection using CCTV footage.

Stores say various inventive methods are used to conceal shoplifted goods. Many of the cases have allegedly involved young overseas backpackers travelling around the country, but one entrepreneurial Kiwi, currently before the courts, was allegedly buying groceries and on-selling them, says Sgt Chirnside. “This incident involved a wide range of expensive grocery items filling a shopping trolley with some $1200 worth of goods.”

Sgt Chirnside says most of those charged in relation to Wanaka offences have been young transient workers, but not all.

One situation before the courts involved 28 alleged offences.

“Anecdotally, we’ve identified a group of alleged offenders on local CCTV footage who police have also viewed on CCTV footage elsewhere in the South Island in Christchurch, Kaikoura and Motueka,” he says.

Various offenders have been stealing everything from supermarket groceries to gas canisters and torches from the town’s Mitre 10 Mega store.

“We’re sending a message to the community that we’re taking a firm line on this and anyone out there shoplifting can expect to get caught as there are CCTV cameras everywhere and they’re being monitored,” says Sgt Chirnside.

“This is not something we usually see much of here, but we’re definitely seeing an increase in apprehension.”

Most offenders being apprehended have offended multiple times at multiple stores, he says.

He says he doesn’t believe those committing the shoplifting are doing it out of desperation to survive amid rising grocery prices. “No, I think these are just opportunists. They’re not criminal masterminds and I don’t think they’re so poor that they can’t pay,” he says.

Shoplifting is not confined to larger stores in the town with Wanaka Pharmacy staff noticing a marked increase since September or October last

year. They’re targeting everything from small vibrators to expensive skin care and serums, staff say.

“We haven’t necessarily caught or seen them, but definitely later on we notice the stock is missing,” says pharmacy assistant India Boon. Younger offenders often split up too. India says goods are sometimes removed from boxes with the boxes neatly back on the shelf, or people slip items up their sleeve, or use bags. Stands and tills have been adjusted to ensure staff can keep an eye on customers, but it’s often hard when the shop’s full.

Owner operator Aaron Heath says he loses a significant sum - “bigger than I like to think about”, every year to shoplifting.

Just recently an overseas customer bought something on a payWave card then ‘suddenly remembered’ she wanted some $140 perfume for her partner, using a second card from the same bank, says Aaron. “She waved the card at the terminal and said, ‘Bye guys’, then scarpered, just as it declined.” Staff unsuccessfully gave chase.

“My guess is we normally lose several hundred dollars’ worth a week, but it’s been worse since the borders re-opened,” he says. “When I’m stock-taking I see we’ve lost the same (cosmetic) foundation every few months.”

Retail theft is also high in Queenstown and Senior Sergeant John Fookes says offenders also target the larger chains. “We get significant events reported, including people filling their vehicles at service stations then driving off.”

Pak’nSave Queenstown owner-operator Michelle King says shoplifting is always a problem and it’s been ongoing since the Covid lockdowns. Staff are trained to watch for certain behaviours and the store operates extensive security cameras.

Wanaka Mitre 10 Mega general manager Mark Watson says it’s an ongoing problem, mainly petty items taken, but thanks to vigilant staff, good security cameras and extensive monitoring the amount that’s being stolen is “pretty normal”. “Our team maintains high customer service levels so there’s no chance of people milling around on their own unobserved,” he says. While none of the store owners wanted to reveal their losses, it’s understood some of Queenstown’s larger stores lose thousands of dollars of goods each year to shoplifting.

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Ladies Mile rezone on the fasttrack

By Paul Taylor

A Queenstown developer has welcomed the fast-track rezoning of Ladies Mile, saying the planning system is far too bureaucratic and expensive.

Glenpanel LP is planning two major housing developments on around 34 hectares of the 120 hectares of land between Shotover Bridge and Lake Hayes.

Ladies Mile is zoned as rural and rural lifestyle but last week Minister for the Environment, Hon David Parker, gave Queenstown Lakes District Council the go ahead to use the Streamlined Planning Process (SPP) to change it to enable urban development.

Queenstown Lakes has a critical shortage of affordable housing and rental properties, which sparked last Monday’s downtown demonstration by about 70 workers struggling to find somewhere to live.

Glenpanel LP’s Mark Tylden says it’s pleasing the Government has approved the SPP process.

“Consenting anything in New Zealand takes too long, and costs far too much, the system is very inefficient,” he says.

“The current interpretation and implementation of the resource management rules are akin to being in an episode of The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.” Ironically, Glenpanel LP’s Flint’s Park development was itself approved to be considered for fast-track consenting, under the COVID-19 Recovery (Fasttrack Consenting) Act 2020 (FTA) pathway.

But it was then rejected by the panel, which cited local planning rules, along with the impact on the landscape and traffic.

Glenpanel LP is appealing the decision in the High Court, with a hearing set down for May this year. The development would see up to 384 homes built on 15.6ha of land beneath Slope Hill on Ladies Mile.

“The decision to proceed with the rezoning of Ladies Mile was inevitable, and makes the Panel’s decision to refuse to consider Flint’s Park as part of an urbanising environment even more extraordinary,” Tylden says.

“The Panel has effectively delayed the delivery of housing, for no good

reason, by at least 12 months into an area that is desperate for it, and has been signalled for residential housing and urbanisation by the council itself since at least 2016.”

QLDC spent $1.4 million on a masterplan for Ladies Mile and has now approval for the rezoning process, although QLDC Chief Executive Mike Theelen says there will still be “ample opportunity for community consultation”.

“It was pleasing to see that the Minister recognised the urgency behind our efforts to address local housing issues in this way and that the reasons behind his decision reflected our own rationale,” Theelen says.

“In particular, he noted using the SPP ‘will enable a timely response to urban growth pressures in Queenstown Lakes District and is proportionate to the complexity and significance of the planning issues’.”

Theelen says a major focus of the council’s proposed rezone was to encourage the creation of the types of housing currently in short supply in the Whakatipu basin, namely housing suitable for older households, smaller households, and lower and lower-middle income households.

“There is a really exciting opportunity at Ladies Mile to build a thriving, mixed community that can help the district grow in the right way. That means reflecting the diversity of residents we need to support economic growth without impacting negatively on the environment.”

The masterplan envisages up to 2400 homes on the land.

Flint’s Park is one of three Ladies Mile developments considered for fasttrack planning. Flint’s Park West, also by Glenpanel LP, would see up to 315 homes on an 18.4ha site, although only 8.6ha would be developed. And development Glenpanel, by developers Maryhill Ltd, could feature up to 748 homes.

Ladies Mile

Bartender puts walking shoes on for mental health

A former Queenstown bartender is nearing the end of an epic walk from one end of the country to another to raise money and awareness for men’s mental health.

Australian-born Josh Storey, who used to tend bar for Future Hospitality Group’s Little Blackwood, is scheduled to complete his 3000km walk along Te Araroa Trail in Bluff in the next couple of weeks.

He is fundraising for the Australia-based #talk2mebro movement, created to provide men with a safe platform to open up and share their struggles without judgement or ridicule.

This is not Josh’s first rodeo walking long distances. In a ‘random moment’ in May last year he decided to walk from Newcastle to Wollongong on Australia’s south coast. At just 266-kilometres, it planted the seed for achieving something on a much larger scale.

After spending six months in Queenstown planning the current trip, he headed off to Cape Reinga, at New Zealand’s northwest-most tip, to start the walk. En route he recently completed a ‘rockstar’ shift at Little Blackwood to showcase the special ‘Josh’s Storey’ cocktail Future Hospitality Group is promoting to raise money for the cause.

The fundraising night was a roaring success. Josh says, “The night went super well, always a good time at Little Blackwood. Managed to do a lot of networking and discuss the fundamentals of mental health with those I had the pleasure of meeting.

“The tourists and people of Queenstown were super generous, and I can’t thank them enough for their support!”

He raised over $500 in cash donations and cocktail sales will continue to tick over for the duration of his walk, with $1 from each being donated to the fund by his former bosses.

The mental health movement #talk2mebro runs an early intervention program to reduce rates of male suicide, as well as weekly social meetups. Josh used to attend their Friday meet ups back home in Australia.

“We would go for a swim, have an ice bath or go for a walk and have a coffee,” he says.

“If you had something to talk about you could, if you didn’t, it was perfectly alright because it’s just a bunch of blokes hanging out and having a good time.”

During his time with Future Hospitality Group, Josh took the lead in offering mental health support to all company staff. Starting ‘Mental Health Mondays’, he sat in a local café with open ears and an open heart to talk about anything and everything.

Walking the trail is something he finds helpful for his own state of mind.

“I love throwing myself into situations where I have to push myself and understand how my brain works,” he says.

“It’s a great way to see the world because you get a better understanding of where you are and how far you’re going.”

Future Hospitality Group co-owner James Ace is hugely supportive of what Josh is doing.

“We are always so proud of the awesome humans we employ and are thrilled to support Josh on his epic adventure.

“Good on him for raising money and awareness for men’s mental health which is such a huge issue throughout New Zealand.”

Little Blackwood will have the ‘Josh’s Storey’ cocktail on the menu until he finishes the walk. Direct donations can be made online. There’s a link on the Lakes Weekly Bulletin website www.lwb.co.nz

Queenstown bartender Josh Storey with his fundraising cocktail

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Mammoth effort to secure Nevis Bluff

By Paul Taylor

Contractors for Waka Kotahi have drilled in 182 steel bolts to help secure the 13,000 tonnes schist rock Yates Feature on the Nevis Bluff. The team worked for 14 weeks on the cliff face, at the end of Gibbston valley, in early 2022, following an increase in movement detected late in 2021. And they’ve just completed another 15 weeks on site. But they’re not done yet. After a break for the school holidays, they’ll return on 26 April to complete the usual autumn checks. That will result in some short travel delays.

“The travel delays will run for about three weeks from the end of April to allow the team to complete scaling and inspection work on the Bluff as a whole ahead of winter,” says Robert Choveaux, Senior Network Manager, Central Otago, for Waka Kotahi.

The autumn work by Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency’s Aspiring Highways team will run between 8am and 5pm Wednesday, 26 April, to Friday, 12 May, and it is weather dependent.

“The Nevis Bluff is a site we regularly inspect, monitor and stabilise as part of our commitment to provide a safe, accessible highway network.

“The best time to do this work is the shoulder seasons in autumn and spring when traffic volumes are at their lowest,” Choveaux adds.

“We appreciate everyone’s understanding for any delays that they may encounter and thank them for following the temporary, lowered speeds which are for their safety and the safety of our workers.”

The Nevis Bluff is about half-way between Cromwell and Queenstown – 25 minutes from Cromwell, 35 minutes from Queenstown, above the Kawarau River, on SH6.

RENTING NOW QUEENSTOWN

by Miranda Spary

Miranda Spary is a tired, old, has been columnist that we feel sorry for. She used to write a weekly book column in the old Queenstown Times which was read more for the local gossip in it than the book part. She is quite lazy and very grateful if readers send in ideas about what’s been happening locally on miranda@queenstown.co.nz

Bad luck, here I am again - they’ve tried getting rid of me, but I think some of the strange people who like my column have been bothering the LWB to let me have another turn. I’ve had to promise to be VERY polite.

I did get some very unpolite phone calls from my darling husband. He has gone to the Hong Kong Sevens and decided to have a night at the casino in Macau. Since Covid, Macau has been pretty well deserted. He asked his lovely wife to book him into the hotel he always used to stay in. Lovely wife did exactly as he asked but when he arrived, they had no knowledge of the booking. He showed them the email, and discovered I’d accidentally booked him into the Hotel Lisboa in Lisbon, Portugal, not the Hotel Lisboa in Macau. He still hasn’t seen the funny side of it. There’s nothing funny about all the road works and I simply can’t see why we need all the orange cones AND the bored looking orange vested people staring at their phones. Given that there are robots that can take orders and deliver things, we could surely have some to trundle along the middle of the road stretching out how ever many metres of wire with bright coloured flags on for the hour or so that it should be needed. When I watch how long it takes the humans to set up all the cones and explain to angry thickos like me that it is all about safety, I feel like doing something dangerous. It would be so much safer and cheaper for everyone if they just put speed cameras up. I do wish Downer would get itself rebranded - the current name is uncomfortably apt.

Rose and Tom Barnett cycled the whole length of NZ on the Te Araroa Trail to raise money for the very nasty leukaemia that stole their nearly 31 year old son. Two years later, they’ve made a short video of their trip and are showing it at Dorothy Browns as a fundraiser on Easter Monday. It’s nearly sold out already, so hurry along to get your tickets. They’ve had masses of goodies donated for their silent auction, and there’s a specially poignant one - a magnum of Sam Neill’s wine signed by him. If you haven’t already read his excellent memoir “Did I Ever Tell You This?”, you may not know that he was recently diagnosed with stage 3 blood cancer himself. Given how unfunny cancer is, he’s done a fine and funny job of writing about his life.

A fun group spent the afternoon at the Barnetts making candles for the fundraiser. I must confess that I had absolutely nothing to do with the candlemaking - I am so hamfisted that the thought of pouring hot wax into a glass and trying to keep the wick straight was too terrifying for me. Instead, I was allowed to put jam on scones to feed the friends who were doing the difficult bits. It was tricky focusing on my jam application when the view down the Shotover River was so spectacular. It’s hard to believe we used to have the rubbish dump down that end of Tucker Beach Road - what WERE we thinking?

These recent chilly mornings have certainly perked up the autumn colours - friends from the North Island were astonished to see how quickly the trees turn bonfire bright after a frost. They were even more astonished that the bus from Arrowtown to Queenstown costs only $2. In their North Island life, they never use buses, but were very impressed with the service here. I bought my husband a bus pass for his 70th birthday and he hasn’t used it once. His bus pass is nearly 4 years old and still in perfect condition. Any takers?

NZ’s Future Sporting Elite

Home-grown Wakatipu High School Sports stars cleaning up

By Sue Fea

Wakatipu High School is becoming a sporting force to be reckoned with on land, water and ice with some of its summer sporting greats clocking up some very impressive successes, nationally and at South Island and regional meets last week and throughout the season.

The school had 110 students competing among tens of thousands around the country in Summer Tournament Week last week – its largest ever group, despite Covid interruptions last year.

School Director of Sport Laura Nathan says they’re elated with the results and now starting to see the hard work and training paying off in what has been an “incredibly successful” week for the school. It’s the highest number of students we’ve had competing over the largest range of events – everything from rowing, volleyball and touch, to athletics, mountain biking and golf, with many of our athletes doing exceptionally well on the national, South Island and regional stage,” says an elated Laura. “We’re incredibly proud of the achievements of our students and coaches. It’s great to cap off the summer season in such an awesome way - super pleasing.”

WHS took out three golds, two silvers and two bronze medals at the prestigious Maadi Cup - NZ Secondary School Rowing Championships which finished at the weekend (April 1). WHS finished an incredible third equal overall among 2287 students competing at Lake Karapiro, Cambridge.

For the second year running WHS was awarded the Top Sculling School’s Trophy with its rowers producing another blinder in the A finals. “We had 25 students compete at Maadi this year and crews made 12 A finals and six B finals – another awesome campaign,” she says.

Marley King Smith won two golds and a bronze, Xavier Small – two golds, a silver and bronze, and Ashton White won a gold, a silver and bronze, among the school’s successes.

“We were second equal overall last year and this year third overall nationally which is very impressive out of 113 schools,” says Laura. “This is the top national event – the best in the country. As a school we take a huge amount of pride in providing kids opportunities to compete, but seeing them perform is incredibly heartening.”

The school’s mountain bikers also took out three firsts, three seconds and a third at Coronet Peak at the weekend in the South Island Mountain Bike Championships. One of the winners, Malik Boatwright, was first in the National U15 Boys Downhilll Series last season.

The WHS Athletics team is starting to turn heads too with Siena Mackley winning gold in the U18 Girls 3000m at the NZ Athletics Club Championships recently. She backed this up with gold in the 3000m and 1500m at the South Island Secondary School Athletics Championships at the weekend, where Sammy Fookes also won the U19 Girls 800m.

The school’s U14 Triathlon Team took out national gold last week too at the NZ Secondary Schools Triathlon Championships in Wanaka, while the

school’s First XI Girls’ Cricket Team finished third in the Gillette Venus Cup as regional qualifiers.

In another coup for WHS sporting success, Year 12 student Mason Clarke has just been named in the U19 Men’s NZ Cricket Squad, which Laura says is an “incredible achievement”.

“Mason has a number of camps to attend during the upcoming months as part of a build up to a tournament in Darwin later this year which serves as qualification for the ICC U19 World Cup in 2024.”

Mason and Year 11 student Hugo Bogue were both honoured in Dunedin recently at the Otago Cricket Awards for their awesome season. Hugo was named U17 Boys Batter of the Year and Mason the U17 Boys Bowler of the Year award.

Students Lachy Boniface and Joel Gerard also both won gold as part of the NZ U18 Men’s Ice Hockey Team competing in South Africa recently with NZ taking out the Division III Group B tournament.

Hot on the heels of stunning recent success at the Otago Intercollegiate Champs in Cromwell where the school’s golfers took the top five spots, the school’s top golf team of Nico Cheifetz, Su Kang and Yoonae Jeong won the Southland Secondary School Golf Champs last week. They’ve now qualified for the National Secondary School Championships in August.

Student Kai Milburn is also Number 1 ranked U16 tennis player in NZ with his two younger brothers both ranked second – Dan in the U15 and Noa in the U14.

A triumphant Marley King Smith is held high as winner of the U18 Boys Single Sculls at the Maadi Cup at Lake Karapiro at the weekend.

Coach John Morrison with Neve Bates and Olivia Key after winning Silver in the U18 Girls Double Sculls at Maadi Cup in Cambridge

WHS Volleyball coach Steve Henderson delivers a team talk to the Senior A Girls at the New Zealand Secondary School (NZSS) Champs in Palmerston North

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• BROOK WATKINS – WALLET

• MAURICE BARNETT – PHONE CASE

• IPAD IN BLACK TARGUS CASE, FOUND AT Airport

• WHITE GOLD CANTURI WEDDING RING, FOUND NEAR Dublin Street

• OAKLEY BACKPACK, BROWN AND BLACK

Accommodation

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Trades & Services

BOOKKEEPING & PAYROLL FOR SMALL BUSINESSES - XERO

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SPECTACULAR AUTUMN COLOURS OF WANAKA ON OUR guided private gardens tours. Depart daily starting @$95. Group discounts (max 7). Info booking 02102792481 beautifulgardenswanaka.com

Community

IMPROVE YOUR CODING SKILLS. LEARN HOW TO code or improve your coding skills at the Wanaka Code Club. Meet at Mt Aspiring College Technology room every Friday from 3:30 to 4:30pm. Open to all Wanaka students from year 3 to Year 13. To register see the website www.acst.co.nz or email ajay@acst.co.nz

QUEENSTOWN BRIDGE CLUB: BRIDGE LESSONS 2023. STARTING Thursday 27th April till 29th June. Events centre meeting room, 6pm till 9pm. Cost: $120.00 for 10 lessons includes 2023 club membership. Email for information lynnettemclennan63@gmail.com

FERTILITY SUPPORT: ARE YOU OR DO YOU know someone who is having trouble conceiving naturally? One of the greatest ways to deal with infertility is to talk about it. Our friendly support groups are for anyone facing infertility. With peer support we can make the process so much less dauting and lonely. Contact us on queenstownsupport@fertilitynz.org.nz

SPCA OP SHOP – 51 GORGE RD. Open Monday – Saturday 9.00 – 5.00. Pre-loved goods and clothing at great prices. Help support the ongoing work done by the SPCA. Your old goods, or your time, could help save a life. Accepting donations (no electrical at the moment) and volunteers now. Volunteers wanted!

KIA ORA, LANGUAGE EXCHANGE AT POG MAHONES (1st floor) on Wednesday the 5th of April, starting at 12 pm, until 3 or 4 pm. Free entrance. Come and practice different languages (French, Spanish, English...). No minimum level is required. 0225003187.

ST JOHN ROOMS FOR HIRE. 1 X office space with free WIFI. 1 x room seats 30, 1 x room seats 100 with whiteboards, smart TVs, projector screens, free WIFI, shared kitchen and fantastic views! Contact Sarah on 027 206 6340 or queenstownreception@stjohn. org.nz for bookings and more info.

WSCA – ROOMS FOR HIRE - SPACIOUS, sunny rooms are available for hire to Queenstown Community Groups. The rooms hold up to 90 people, with seated dining for 40. Located on the 1st floor of Malaghan House, 10 Memorial Street, Queenstown with lift access. There are kitchen facilities, toilets, Wi-Fi, media equipment for projection onto large screen plus large screen TV. Contact us on 03 4429214 or info@wsca.org.nz for more details.

FREE ENGLISH CONVERSATION CLASSES AVAILABLE AT KIWI English Cafe on Mondays between 6pm - 8pm at St Andrews, 26 Stanley Street, Queenstown. Call 020 4189 9160 for free registration now.

FREE IMMIGRATION CLINIC. IF YOU NEED IMMIGRATION information or advice the Citizens Advice Bureau run an immigration clinic every Wednesday from 7pm. To make an appointment call them on 03 442 6679

WHAKATIPU DRIVE MY LIFE ARE SEEKING VOLUNTEERS to become mentor buddies to help our vulnerable people achieve their drivers licence. If you are interested or have any questions contact Louise Ward louise@reap.co.nz

NOLEAF AGM. SATURDAY 15TH APRIL 2023. 4PM at the Arrowtown Bowling Club. All welcome.

KERBSIDE COLLECTION HOLIDAY ALERT! PLEASE NOTE, KERBSIDE collections scheduled for Good Friday will be a day later than normal (even recyclers need a holiday).

REPAIR REVOLUTION: FRANKTON REPAIR CAFÉ- THE REPAIR Revolution is back. These are free, volunteer-based events to get together to learn and participate in the repair of broken items. No need to register. If you love your stuff and want to renew, revive, and repair your broken things, join Sustainable Queenstown at St Margaret’s Presbyterian Church, McBride Street Frankton for a fun, FREE, feel good event! SATURDAY 15th April, from 10 AM to 2pm

QUEENSTOWN DHARMA CENTRE, 12 LAKE ST. LAMA MARK WEBBER’s Comprehensive Month of Teaching continues with an Easter Retreat on INFINITE COMPASSION (FRI 7 Apr @ 7pm - THU 13 Apr @ 7pm). For further details, including how to register, please see dharmacentre.org.nz or FB. Note, our regular programme is on hold during Lama Mark’s visit.

NEED AN IDYLLIC SPOT IN KINGSTON TO rent for your tiny home or caravan? Please text 022 404 3545.

RUBBISH AT REMEMBERING? SIGN UP FOR WEEKLY bin day reminders and public holiday alerts via text or email at www. reminders.saveourstuff.co.nz

QUOTE OF THE WEEK: “IT’S THE ROUGH side of the mountain that’s the easiest to climb; the smooth side doesn’t have anything for you to hang on to.” - Aretha Franklin

TICKETS ARE SELLING FAST FOR QUEENSTOWN BANFF Mountain Film Festival World Tour May 3 & 4, Check out Eventbrite or Queenstown Banff Film Fest on Facebook for more details!

LOVE TO REPAIR STUFF? JOIN THE REPAIR Revolution. These are two free, volunteer-based events to get together to learn and participate in the repair of broken items in Frankton on 15 April and Glenorchy on 7th May. We’re looking for volunteer fixers of all kinds to join us. Whatever your super fixing power is (bikes, furniture, electronics, clothes, anything!), if you love repairing things and helping others learn, we would love to have you on board. If you can help please get in touch with Neha on 0273730149 or email sq.resourcefulcommunities@gmail.com

QUEENSTOWN TRANSFER STATION AND THE PUBLIC RECYCLING drop off on Glenda Drive will be closed on Good Friday, reopening on Easter Saturday

My Life Story

by Sue Fea

FOURTH GENERATION FRANKTON FARMER BILL GRANT

Turning back time

They don’t come much more ‘local’ than Frankton farmer Bill Grant, who was driving the tractor while his dad fed out hay from age four, through much harsher winters than we have now.

A large chunk of that original 330ha Grant family farm on the Frankton Flats and hillside opposite has since been sold, much of it to Queenstown Airport.

It’s a far cry from the original block Bill’s grandfather Robert Grant purchased in 1913, one of just three farms beyond Frankton. His great grandfather Robert (Senior) was the first to farm at Lake Johnson, where his stone cottage remains still stand. “He was killed after being dragged by a team of horses, three or four months before my grandfather was born,” says Bill. “Grandad worked for the guy Lee, whose memorial is along Ladies Mile. He asked for a pay rise as he was getting married. He gave him half a crown more a week (25 cents) and said not to tell the other staff,” grins Bill.

Tragedy struck in 1950 when Bill’s Uncle George was killed in a car accident along Jim’s Way. His parents - mum pregnant, survived. “Dad (John) was secretary of the Shotover Hall Committee and had biked down to unlock the hall for a Friday night dance. Uncle George was driving them home.”

John bought his other brother out of the farm in the early 1950s. Winters were much colder then. “Dad biked to Shotover School (under Lower Shotover Bridge). One year he could walk across the Shotover River as it was frozen over. Mum’s family, the Daggs, farmed under Coronet Peak and the snow once covered the top of the fenceline, then froze.”

Bill went to Queenstown School with Carlos Bagrie’s father, whose family farmed Queenstown Hill. At five Bill recalls riding the school bus to John Bagrie’s Tucker Beach birthday party. “His mother had made mice with licorice tails and I still remember John trying to suck up the tail through a straw.”

Bill was just 11 when he joined the Frankton Golf Club in 1958 – the day the course opened on its present site. “Before that it was across the airport runway and the clubhouse was where New World is. I started there, aged nine, with Mum.” Two fairways crossed over the grass runway. “We were unique in world golf as we had to stand still so the pilots could see us and dodge round us when they hit the ground in their light planes.”

By the time Bill left high school at 16 he was on an 18 Handicap and had competed in the Southland Schoolboy Championships.

He won his first senior championship at Frankton in 1967, going on to net five more titles, also five Arrowtown Senior Men’s titles.

A young entrepreneur, Bill picked rosehips along Battery Hill, filling 14kg sugar bags and selling them to the factory. “They gave rosehip to the babies. I got 30 shillings a bag.” He also ran a lawn mowing business for Frankton crib owners, earning 25 cents an hour, and pulled carrots at the neighbouring market garden. In his 20s, while

working on the family farm, Bill was a shearing contractor.

Not one for heading to the pub, golf was his focus, which led to meeting wife of 48 years, Tilly. “Hylton Hensman and Dad launched the project to build Kelvin Heights Golf Course in 1969, opening in 1975. Dad worked there fulltime, taking his money out in debentures, and I gave up shearing to build with him for $1 an hour. Beau Norris built the clubhouse for $3 an hour.” The entire development cost some $100,000 with members raising about $40,000 in debenture holders through local businesses, and the council pitching in about $10,000. Many a Housie and card night helped boost the coffers and it was here that Bill - the first secretary of the Frankton Fire Brigade, met Tilly, plucking up the courage to invite her to the Queenstown Fire Brigade annual dinner.

About 50 years ago as the airport grew and DC3s required more runway, the Grants sold off 52.6ha, piece by piece. “We got way above land value, but it’s worth millions and millions now,” says Bill.

“If we’d have said ‘no’, it would’ve been claimed under the Public Works Act.”

Bill’s been down to a 2 Handicap in golf and represented Otago in the Masters in 2002, notching up many South Island championship wins.

He’s served on the board of Golf Otago for 15 years and clocked five holes in one since the 1970s, Tilly scoring three.

At 76 he still plays three to four times weekly, along with bowls, and is a Life Member of Queenstown Golf Club and the Lake Hayes A & P Society – a sheep steward for many years.

He’s survived a ute, laden with bales of hay, rolling over him, but farming’s not all been tough going.

“In 1996 Bill went on the All Black tour of South Africa with seven mates in mid-winter, playing 14 different golf courses, and leaving me with 3500 sheep, 150 bales of hay and 50 cows,” chips in Tilly. “I left the Dennison boy to help though,” defends Bill.

Playing alongisde the pros - Bill with the winning cup he and golf pro Phil Tataurangi won when Bill partnered with him at a Raleigh International fundraiser at The Hills in the late 1990s

Bill, with wife of 48 years Tilly

Progress on Whakatipu community hub

By Paul Taylor

A Queenstown community hub facility is a step closer after the Whakatipu Community Hub Charitable Trust (WCHCT) secured a peppercorn rent on public land behind Countdown supermarket, Frankton.

WCHCT plans to use the about 1.18ha of land, at the north-eastern edge of Queenstown Events Centre, to offer affordable office rental and co-working spaces, to be used by social agencies in Queenstown Lakes.

A 35-year lease has been approved by Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC), with annual ground rental set at $1.00 per annum plus GST. Trust chair John MacDonald said the trustees are delighted to have secured the lease after several years of searching for land.

“The planned hub promises a secure community asset which will bring together many of the region’s community services to create a warm and welcoming environment, open and available to all-in-one excellent location,” MacDonald says.

WCHCT is initially proposing to build two buildings with associated accessways and car parking, with the potential to add two more buildings if and when capacity and demand require.

“This lease allows us to get on with our planning, and to design, consent and construct the hub. It’s slowly coming together at a time when the need for such a space is greater than ever and continues to grow.

“We are extremely grateful to QLDC and those who have demonstrated to the Council the need for such a facility, as your support is what will deliver this vision.”

QLDC Property Director, Quintin Howard, said council’s decision would help provide space for community services and modern, purpose-built facilities. The rent will be reviewed in accordance with QLDC’s Community Facility Funding Policy.

The decision follows an expression of interest received from WCHCT for the excess land after it was identified in the Queenstown Events Centre masterplan.

Formal submissions were taken in December 2022 and January 2023, with the majority of the 25 submissions received supportive of the proposed lease and its duration.

Double Cone

Square:

Round:

DID THIS AD GET YOUR

David

Kendalle McLeod Finance

Catherine

Kylee De Suza Account Manager 021 044 2968

Ana Paula Salvi Graphic

Patricia W. Becker

Paul Taylor Editor/Journalist

Sue Fea Journalist

Bethany Rogers Contributor

Jessica Allen Contributor

Jay Cassells Contributor

The unused public land behind Countdown supermarket, Five Mile, next to The Crown pub.

COMMUNITY NOTES

Wakatipu Reforestation Trust - Autumn Planting Season

Restoring our native biodiversity & taking action against climate change, one tree at a time

by Georgia Merton

The Whakatipu Reforestation Trust invites the Queenstown community to join their volunteer native tree planting days throughout April. Planting native trees is a great way to actively participate in restoring our native biodiversity while helping to mitigate climate change.

Since 2015, the WRT has planted over 70,000 native trees and shrubs in areas that were once overrun with broom, gorse and other invasive weed species. At Whitechapel Reserve (QLDC), over 16,000 native trees and shrubs have been planted so far, with another 1500 ready to be planted on the 15th April. The spectacular transformation of this reserve is just one of the increasingly highly visible native corridors along the Queenstown Trail where locals and visitors alike can feel immersed in the beautiful ecosystems that once flourished through the Whakatipu Basin.

Planting days are the place to be on Saturday mornings throughout April!! With over 5000 plants ready to go into the ground this season, we need as much help as we can get!! Absolutely everyone is welcome - young and old and the family dog! There are jobs for everyone - it’s not all digging and planting - there are plenty of support tasks to help keep the day running smoothly. Planting days are drop-in style - from 9am onwards. No experience is needed, just a desire to make a difference and leave your legacy for future generations.

Morning tea & hot drinks kindly provided by the awesome team at the Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa, and we will be celebrating the start of planting season with a community sausage sizzle at Whitechapel What to bring: Gardening gloves, hat, good footwear, sturdy garden shovel, water and enthusiasm.

Dates:

• Sat April 15th - Whitechapel Reserve, Whitechapel Road, Arrow Junction

• Sat April 22nd - Slopehill Road (off Speargrass Flat Road)

• Sat April 29th - Bush Creek (behind Chinese Village)

For more information, updates & maps, please go to our website and/or Facebook events:

Web: www.wrtqt.org.nz | FB: www.facebook.com/wrtqt.org.nz

UTLET the talk of Queenstown PODCAST

This week’s episode: Arrowtown Ward candidate Melissa White wants to ensure sustainable and thoughtful growth in the district

Council releases fifth annual Quality of Life survey results

The annual survey attracted 1,488 residents who completed the Quality of Life survey which covered issues like housing, employment, health, the environment and transport. This was up 16% on 2021 The survey will be used to support improvements to community wellbeing by QLDC and other local organisations.

Mayor Glyn Lewers said: “The headline statistic is that 77% of our residents rate their quality of life as good or better, up marginally from 76% the previous year. But dig a little deeper and council also see’s the district’s most pressing challenges reflected in the results, particularly when it comes to housing and the lower ratings in life satisfaction reported by people who are younger, have less work security, and are renting.”

Mayor Lewers said results that point to housing stress are a sobering but unsurprising reminder of issues affecting community wellbeing. For example,

20% of respondents reported needing to move in the last 12 months and 16% concerned they may not have a steady place to live.

The survey also give a nod to the community strengths including 91% who agreed or strongly agreed their neighbourhood is safe. Also rating well were community facilities and services such as our trails and cycleways, parks and reserves, and libraries. These attracted user satisfaction scores of 88%, 88% and 84% respectively and are a core part of what QLDC delovers. However, satisfaction with Council’s overall performance and elected members decreased to 20% and 19% respectively.

An abbreviated non-residents survey also drew 600 responses, with 49% of respondents indicating they do not rent their property out, while 20% rent their property full-time to long-tern tenants and 11% full-time to short-term tenants.

HOSPO GUIDE

Tuesday $1 Wings*

All you can eat Schnitzel $32pp*

Wednesday All-You-Can-Eat Meat $35pp*

Thursday $12.95 Schnitty with fries*

All you Can eat Ribs $56pp*

4 APRIL - 10 APRIL

Friday All you can eat Wings $20pp*

Every Day Try our Bav Fest! 2 hours beverage package & all you can eat meat $89

Monday $12.95 Burgers*

All you can eat Sausages $28pp*

Wednesday Silent Disco 9.30pm Three Colours, Three Channels, Three Djs

Thursday Bangers with DJ Tess 9pm

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! 12PM - LATE

Friday Fridays with Stubacca 9pm

Saturday Chewed Out with Stubacca 9pm

HAPPY HOUR 3-5pm EVERY DAY!

$9 Whakatipu Brewing pints & $9 house wines!

Thursday Beats n’ Bao’s 5pm

$6 Bao’s Every Thursday Yonder’s Classic Beats and $6 bao’s are back!

Open Mic Night 9pm Bring your mates, play whatever!

XS STORAGE

Secure self storage units – various sizes available Phone: 0800 297 786 | www.xsstorage.co.nz

Sunday UFC Live 11:30am Sunday Sessions with Danny Atkinson 5pm Late Nights with DJ Yuki 9pm

13 Taps of local and NZ craft beer and cider!

Patio Beats & Cocktails with DJ Grizzly, 5pm

Monday Mondays with DJ Tess 9pm

Food by Mojo Kai available 12-9pm everyday!

Saturday Genre Fluid, 9pm Live rock looping performance, not to be missed!

SC PLASTERING LTD.

Craftsmen exterior plasterers - 20yrs local experience. Phone Shawn Cruise: 021 539 138 or skcruz@outlook.com

The T The Bunker

GOINGS ON ABOUT

EVENTS - MUSIC - ART THEATRE - AT THE GALLERIES

COMMUNITY

Repair Revolution: Frankton Repair Café

Gardening Workshop

Composting Made Easy with Dr Compost

A great veggie garden starts with great compost. It’s the magical ingredient for growing your own food, boosting the microbial activity in the soil and helping your soil hold moisture.

In Dr Compost’s free workshop, you’ll discover how to turn your food and garden waste into nutrients to feed your plants and soil, and get tips to make your composting fail-safe.

Learn about cold and hot composting, Bokashi bins, and worm farms, plus find out which method will suit you best.

Whether you want to get started on your compost journey, or maybe your composting has been de-railed (stinky Bokashi anyone?!), you can get some help from the doctor.

With more than 20 years composting and gardening experience in our unique Central Otago climate, Dr Compost, aka Ben Elms, has all the tricks to get your compost heap working and your garden blooming. He’ll share his knowledge and answer all your questions in this entertaining workshop. Spaces are limited for this popular workshop, so please reserve your free ticket today.

When: Wednesday 5 April from 6pm

Where: Sherwood Queenstown 554 Frankton Road

Remarkables Market

Only two more opportunities until this years season wraps up on the 15th April. The Remarkables Market is open on Saturday rain hail or shine with free parking on site. The Market has a relaxed, community atmosphere. As well as having fabulous stallholders selling high quality products, there are large communal tables with umbrellas, free sunscreen, sandpit and playground for children, and local musicians every week

When: Saturday April 8 and 15, 9:00am to 2:00pm

Where: Red Oaks Drive, Frankton

Author Talk with Brian Hall

Brian is a professional mountaineer who has over forty years’ experience at the highest level of climbing, with expeditions to Nepal, India, Pakistan and Patagonia including Everest (in winter). Brian’s focus in recent years has been his business Film and Mountain which provides safety, rigging and location advice on film and photography projects. Brian’s credits are very extensive and include organizing the mountain filming on the BAFTA Award winning film Touching the Void. Brian’s book, High Risk – Climbing to Extinction, published in 2022, won the prestigious Boardman Tasker Mountain Literature Award.

This FREE event but booking is required. Visit the QLDC Libraries for more information and to register: https://codc-qldc.govt.nz/

When: Thursday 13 April, 6.00pm – 7.30pm

Where: Queenstown Events Centre

Latin Kiwi Integration Festival

Latinos for New Zealand are organising the first ever Latin Kiwi Festival to be held next weekend There will be DJ’S, Salsa dancing - Bachata dancing plus inspirational ted talks, food & beverages and a kids zone. Its all designed to be loads of fun. Bring the family and friends to share in latino culture & arts, delicious food and joy of living!

No entrance fee just cash for food and drinks.

When: Saturday April 15 from 1:30 pm to 9:00pm

Where: Queenstown Memorial Centre, Memorial Street

The Repair Revolution is back for 2023 and kicking off in Frankton. These are free, volunteer-based events where people get together to share their repair knowledge and experience. People who enjoy fixing things (Fixers) help people with broken things (Visitors). Visitors bring their broken items from home and are encouraged to learn and participate in the repair of their broken items.

There is no need to register, but please note that due to the walk-in nature of the events, there may be a short wait before you can see a volunteer fixer. If you love stuff and hate waste or want to renew, revive, and repair your broken things to give them a new lease on life and keep them out of landfill? then join Sustainable Queenstown for a fun, FREE, feel good event!

When: Saturday 15th April, from 10:00am

Where: St Margaret’s Presbyterian Church, McBride Street, Frankton

Whakatipu Reforestation Trust Community Planting Days

Each autumn Whakatipu Reforestation Trust invites the community to help plant native plants. 70,000 natives have been planted throughout the Whakatipu Basin since 2015. The sites are large, multi-year planting projects on public land. This years Autumn Community Volunteer Native Tree Planting Dates are

Sat 15th April – Whitechapel Reserve, Whitechapel Road, Arrow Junction (followed by Community BBQ). Parking: adjacent to planting site.

Sat 22nd April – Slope Hill Road (tributary of Mill Creek) – access off Speargrass Flat Road. Planting site is next to the bike trail, approximately 1km along Slope Hill Road (from the Speargrass Flat Rd turnoff). Parking: look for WRT flag on the left.

Sat 29th April – Bush Creek, Arrowtown, behind the Chinese Village. Parking area next to The Dishery. See story in this weeks Community Notes.

RE:FRESH - Queenstown Art Society Members Show 2023

RE:FRESH ends its run next week. RE:FRESH is an exhibition of new artworks from members of the Queenstown Art Society. Not only are the works spanking new but many of the artists are too. This exhibition show-cases the Queenstown Art Society new chapter after close to two decades in town. Call in and see the new works, new artists, new mediums and witness the new energy. That is what QAS is – honouring creativity in abundance. RE:FRESH YOURSELF!

When: Daily until 12 April from 10:00am to 4:00pm

Where: Te Atamira, Remarkables Park Town Centre 12 Hawthorne Drive, Frankton

MUSIC

Charlotte Graf - Bad Jelly and the Seven Deadly Sins

This is the tale of a WITCHY WOMAN… with raven hair, and ruby lips. A restless spirit on an endless flight, who drove herself to madness. She’s some kind of demon messing in the glue… if you don’t watch out - it’ll stick to you! Charlotte Graf is at it again; this time exploring the world of spells, magic and love potions.

When: Saturday April 8 and 15, 9:00am to 2:00pm

Where: The Blue Door 18 Buckingham Street Arrowtown

Natalia and Yuri

Internationally acclaimed violinists Natalia Lomeiko, Yuri Zhislin and pianist Sarah Watkins perform at Te Atamira next week. Natalia has performed extensively as a soloist and chamber musician in prestigious London venues and is currently a Professor of Violin at the Royal College of Music in London. Yuri is described by The Strad as a ‘virtuoso with a truly Romantic temperament’. He performs as a soloist and chamber musician, performing extensively with orchestras such as the Oxford Philharmonic, the BBC Concert Orchestra, the Lithuanian State Symphony and the Santiago de Chile Symphony. He is a professor of violin and viola at the Royal College of Music in London. Natalia, Yuri and Sarah will be performing works by Mozart, Brahms, Moszkowska and Sarasate.

When: Monday April 10 Doors open at 6:30pm, show begins at 7pm

Where: Te Atamira, Remarkables Park Town Centre 12 Hawthorne Drive, Frankton

Te Atamira Sing!

Bring your voice and SING in an open-to-everyone choir. Hosted by various choir masters in the district, the community sing-along teaches participants to sing two-part harmony for a variety of popular songs. Song sheets are provided and no experience necessary. Bring along your voice and join in! For more information, contact Margaret O’Hanlon info@whirlwindnz.com

When: Tuesday April 4 at 7pm

Where: Te Atamira, Remarkables Park Town Centre 12 Hawthorne Drive, Frankton

SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAMMES

Whakatipu Youth Trust Autumn programme

The Whakatipu Youth Trust have a holiday programme covering Wednesday to Friday in week one and Monday to Friday in week two of the school holidays. Activities in week one, range from a Movie Day, Paintball to The Mule, a terrain-based obstacle courses designed as an adventure day combining mud, rivers, mixed terrain and plenty of obstacles. For more information visit whakatipuyouthtrust.org.nz

When: Wednesday 12 April 9:30am- 2:30pm, Thursday 13 April 10:00am –3:30pm, Friday 14 April 7:30am-2:00pm

Te Atamira School Holiday programme

Te Atamira has a fun-filled, arts and craft-packed holiday programme. Led by accredited Art teacher Michelle and run in collaboration with Youthtown, their bespoke, multidisciplinary arts programme will enthuse a range of ages from 5-12 with a selection of workshops. All materials are provided. Details of the programme is online at teatamira.nz/events/april-schoolholidays

When: Tuesday 11 April - Friday 21 April 9:30am to 3:00pm

Where: Te Atamira, Remarkables Park Town Centre 12 Hawthorne Drive, Frankton

QLDC School Holiday Programme

QLDC Sport and Recreation’s holiday programme is open now with fun for kids aged 5-12 years. Each day is based around a key activity with additional sports, activities and games to keep kids busy and active. The schedule and booking is online at qldc.govt.nz/ recreation/kids-recreation/queenstown-school-holidayprogramme

When: Tuesday April 11 to Friday April 21 8:00am - 5:30pm

Where: Queenstown Events Centre , 1-33 Joe O’Connell Drive, Frankton

If you would like your show, event, exhibition or meeting promoted in Goings On drop me a line at davidgibbs@qmg.co.nz with the details

Art- First Thursdays

EVENTS

First Thursdays Queenstown is a free community celebration of the diversity of arts and culture available in Queenstown. This Thursday join in for a fun and friendly art crawl across six exhibition spaces showing a wide range of work. First Thursdays Queenstown brings together Starkwhite, Milford Galleries, Romer, Artbay, and Lightworx. Based around Earl Street and Marine Parade, the evening sees six art spaces offer exhibitions, talks, and opportunities to engage with the region’s creative community during a special late-night opening from 5–7pm. Maps are available at the participating galleries and on the First Thursdays Queenstown instagram.

When: Thursday April 6, 5:00pm – 7:00pm

Where: Earl Street and Marine Parade, Queenstown

Wheels at Wanaka

Wheels at Wanaka is an ALL vehicle, ALL machinery “history-in-motion” vintage fair - including steam engines, tractors & farming heritage, cars of all sorts, motor-bikes, trucks, earthmovers and heavy machinery. Buzzing with energy, Wheels at Wanaka is huge! With over 50 acres of entertainment, with tractor/ truck pulling & Enduro-X dirt bike competitions, ATV and electric rally car demos, an earthmoving extravaganza and a non-stop parade ground program! If it’s got wheels or tracks it will be on show this Easter, 2023.

Kids 12 & under enter for FREE.

When: Friday April 7 until Sunday April 9, 9:00 am – 4:30 pm

Where: Three Parks, 100 Sir Tim Wallis Drive, Wanaka

Final PSP NZ Jetsprint Championship

If you love jetboats or are just love speed then the Jetsprint championships could be a great event for you. Watch expert drivers, directed by highly skilled navigators attempt to maneuver half ton boats with excess of 1500 horsepower at insane speeds a certain sequence around the track. These machines are capable of accelerating from stationary to 140 k’s per hour in less than two seconds, pulling six g-forces on 180-degree corners, and all without brakes!

The day’s action starts with qualifying rounds and from there, five elimination rounds whittle the top teams down to the final nine, six and three, who will put it all on the line in their attempt to take out the ultimate podium positions.

This is the final of the 2023 NZ Championship, and the only round held in the South Island.

When: Saturday April 8 between 9:00am – 4:30pm

Where: Novus Glass Aquatrack, 995 Luggate Wanaka Highway, Luggate

BLACKCAPS vs Sri Lanka

The BLACKCAPS take on Sri Lanka in their third T20 match against the beautiful backdrop of Sir John Davies Oval. It’s a rare opportunity to see cricket at this level in Queenstown.

When: Saturday, April 8, 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Where: Queenstown Events Centre, Joe O’Cconnell Dr, Frankton

Jiu Jitsu Beginners FUNdamentals- 4 week course

FUNdamentals 4 week beginners course starts this week. The course is $150 for 4 weeks with full access to the JiJitsu schedule during that time. The instructors have traveled overseas to train and compete to further their knowledge. The course covers the basic positions, basic self defence and gives a good fun workout while getting a taste for the gentle art. More information is available at Info@temanawajiujitsu.co.nz or 021 471 229.

When: Tuesday April 4 at 6:30 pm then the following Tuesdays

Where: Te Manawa Jiu Jitsu, 103 Glenda Drive

TRAINBRAIN YOUR

1. Mt Egmont officially changed its name last week to what?

2. Which fine-quality coffee is named after a port in Yemen?

3. Who was the mythological father of Heracles?

4. Libreville is the capital city of which African nation?

5. What accounts for one third of America’s evening internet traffic?

6. Stratfield Saye is the stately home of which duke?

7. Who was Formula 1 World Champion in 1975, 1977 and 1984?

8. What type of creature is a flying fox?

9. Nearly 5000 New Zealand nurses registered to work in which country since August?

10. The Via Dolorosa is in which city?

11. Which Roman street begins at the bottom of the Spanish Steps?

12. The argan tree is native to which continent?

13. In which region of France was the Cabernet Sauvignon black wine grape originally grown?

14. What is the currency unit used in Kabul?

15. In which German city is the car manufacturer BMW based?

16. Which Lutyens-designed stately home near Dartmoor was the last castle to be built in England?

17. What is the drink lassi mostly made from?

18. Who, in Shakespeare's play, became king of Scotland after the death of Macbeth?

19. In which southern French town did Van Gogh famously paint his bedroom?

20. Which island is known as Kerkyra in Greek?

21. In The Lord of the Rings, what sort of spirit inhabits trees?

22. What was the world’s first theme park?

23. The spice cardamom is a member of which family?

24. What is New Zealand's highest mountain?

Queenstown

Are you or do you know someone who is having trouble conceiving naturally? One of the greatest ways to deal with infertility is to talk about it. This is not always easy or comfortable. You may also feel alone and not have people to talk to who understand the experience of infertility. Due to the private nature of infertility, it is difficult to know who to contact.

Our friendly support groups are for anyone facing infertility. This is a chance to connect with others - we can't change the outcome of your journey, but peer support can make the process so much less dauting and lonely.

Tit bits Tit bits

FROM AROUND THE WORLD

Moon Water Discovery

Scientists have identified a new potential source of water in trillions of small glass beads on the surface of the moon, according to a new study of moon rock samples collected in 2020 by the Chinese Chang’e 5 rover. The findings could form the basis for a future sustainable source of water in planned lunar habitat projects.

Analysis of a moon sample revealed the glass beads were formed from the molten, oxygen-filled remains of meteors inundated with hydrogen from solar wind, forming small amounts of water within the silicate beads. Extracting the tiny bits of water requires a simple process of heating the beads to just over 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Scientists believe the moon could have up to 71 trillion gallons of water via this source.

ABC News

11-year-old animal advocate raises more than $61,000 with lemonade stand

https://www.fertilitynz.org.nz/ 0800 733 3306

Delanie Dennis, an 11-year-old from Tampa, Florida, is making a difference one glass of lemonade at a time. Delanie is the founder of a lemonade stand that, since 2019, has raised more than $61,000 for local animal rescues in the area.

Delanie came up with the idea to sell lemonade to raise money for animals at the age of 7, according to her dad, Andy Dennis.

Delanie’s family opened her lemonade stand, called Delanie’s Lemonade Stand, in their Tampa restaurant five years ago. With her hard work, Delanie has made her mark as part of the next generation of animal advocates.

In 2022, she was recognized by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals as the organization’s “Kid of the Year.”

Good Morning America

Apple demoes reality headset

Apple showcased its mixed-reality headset to the company’s top 100 last week. The gathering is a key milestone ahead of the headset’s public announcement planned for June. The event was intended to rally Apple’s top members of staff around the company’s next major platform.

While anticipation of the device’s launch is growing inside Apple, the device is likely to launch with several potential issues: The device will start at around $US3,000, lack a clear killer app, require an external battery, use a design that some testers have deemed uncomfortable. and also likely to launch with limited media content.

The first version of the device “will look like a dud next to the company’s existing products,”, but it is still “likely to make Apple the market leader in mixed reality within a few months.”

Bloomberg

Crypto Fugitive Arrested

Cryptocurrency entrepreneur Kwon Do-Hyung, also known as Do Kwon, was arrested by officials in Montenegro as he attempted to travel through the capital city airport with falsified documents. His detention comes almost one year after the company he cofounded, Terraform Labs, collapsed, leading to the loss of billions of dollars in digital currency markets last year.

Among other products, Kwon’s company created a currency managed by an algorithm such that it maintained a one-to-one conversion with the US dollar. Last May, a number of large withdrawals of the coin sparked the equivalent of a bank run, leading to many investors attempting to reclaim and exchange the coin simultaneously. An estimated $45B of value in the coin was wiped out in one week, beginning months of upheaval across the cryptocurrency industry.

Associated Press

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Very useful teenagers

By Miranda Spary

I was having dinner at the bar in Little Aosta this week, and noticed the young woman working like a demon in the kitchen. She was bubbly and bright and SO efficient, whipping pizzas and steak in and out of the woodfired oven, cheerily calling “SERVICE” to the waiters when dishes were ready, quick with a “YES, CHEF” when he gave her an order.

She seemed very young, and when she had a tiny moment of standing still, I asked her how old she was. “17”. This is her last year at Wakatipu High School and she has been working in the restaurant for two years. She was on dishwashing to start with, and as there was a lot of standing around, she was told to watch how Ludo the chef plated the dishes. When he had an accident, she was able to help out while he recovered.This girl is going to go far!. She’s hoping to travel overseas and maybe work on superyachts.

Before this job, she had been helping her mother’s friend in her cafe. ”I used to be superquiet and reserved, but working in kitchens has given me self confidence.. I’m mostly an art student at school with my favourite classes being photography and media studies. My photography assignment last year was on Aosta and the process of handmaking pasta.”

Gwynie is a very smart girl - not only is she earning good money, but she’s learning some very valuable skills. It’s actually fun having a job. It’s not an easy time for most locals - mortgages are going up, supermarket prices are skyrocketing, rates are set to do a major spike and small business owners are now about to have to pay the new higher minimum wages - pretty tough when they can’t even open 7 days a week because of staff shortages. Local teenagers are helping hugely.

Another energetic WHS student is working at Dorothy Browns Cinema, Bar and Bookshop. Eion McGlynn is in his last year at Wakatipu as well and is SO knowledgeable about books and film - he’s been terrific at recommending new books to customers. I asked him what the best bit about having a weekend/holiday job was (thinking it was surely the money) but he said he really loves getting to know people and thinks he’s picking up all sorts of useful skills that will help him in future jobs.

These two are excellent ambassadors for Wakatipu High School - hardworking, intelligent, young people with such good people skills. According to them, most of their yeargroup are working for local businesses - congratulations to all of them making such a useful contribution to the community.

Employee experience at centre of Mahi Queenstown Lakes revival

By Tony O’Regan - Wanaka App

A working group set up prior to Covid-19 has been resurrected in an attempt to ease issues facing employers and workers in the district.

Mahi Queenstown Lakes (MahiQL) is a collaboration between Lake Wanaka Tourism, Ignite Wanaka, Destination Queenstown Lakes, the Queenstown Chamber of Commerce, and MBIE, with a focus on attracting and retaining talented workers within the district.

“Our vision is a thriving business community in Queenstown Lakes driven by talented people from all over New Zealand and the world who love living and working here,” Queenstown Chamber of Commerce chief executive Sharon Fifield said.

“It speaks to the employee experience. We want them to have a good experience and if they leave they leave as advocates.”

Sharon said workforce shortages continue to feature in feedback from the business community and MahiQL is looking at what can be done to help alleviate some of these shortages and at what employers can do.

“Many employers are paying well above living wage, so it is a matter of what else they can do to attract talent and retain them,” she said.

In the quarterly Queenstown Lakes labour market snapshot (December 2022) commissioned by the Queenstown Lakes District Council, economist Benje Patterson said wage growth across the district is running at nine percent compared to 6.4 percent nationally.

“Unfortunately, there are limits to the influence wages can play in attracting workers,” Benje said.

“Other factors, such as an acute rental housing shortage, have also impeded workers’ ability to accept jobs in the local area.”

Sharon said the data Benje is producing is invaluable and many employers are stepping up and looking at how they provide accommodation saying that some employers are taking on head leases where they have the ability to sublease the property.

“It is important to recognise that housing has a big impact on attracting and retaining workers, however the workforce strategy can’t fix the housing problem,” Sharon said.

“They are very much related but housing is a bigger beast in itself.”

This week MahiQL is running employer focus groups in Wanaka and Queenstown to hear from the business community for input into the workforce strategy. They also plan to run employee and support organisation focus groups.

Sharon said anyone wanting to get involved to share ideas can get in touch with admin@queenstownchamber.org.nz

MahiQL is aiming to have the strategy finalised and ready to share in June.

Queenstown Chamber of Commerce chief executive Sharon Fifield

Arts+Culture

First Thursdays April – Join Queenstown’s favourite late night art crawl

By Kelly Carmichael

First Thursdays Queenstown is a free community event that celebrates the diversity of arts and culture in Queenstown. This Thursday 6 April join in for a fun and friendly art crawl across six exhibition spaces showing a wide range of work.

April brings new exhibitions to Queenstown including Australian artist Diana Watson, whose exhibition opens at Artbay on the evening of First Thursdays. Watson’s large scale botanical paintings are drawn from the Sydney-based artist’s love of nature and the colours, shapes, and shadows that surround her every day. Showing at Artbay’s upstairs exhibition space is Thai artist Virut Panchabuse. Virut is known for large-scale, intricately expressive portraits created using collage techniques. Playing with the style of pop-art, he uses thousands of small pieces sourced from fashion and adult magazines to create work that references the faces and curves of women.

Also opening on the evening of First Thursdays is an exhibition at Starkwhite featuring two new art works by Fiona Pardington. Pardington’s Portrait of Kimiakau Kiwi is a photograph of a kiwi named after and found in the Shotover/ Kimiākau area. This is accompanied by a new still life in Pardington’s ongoing body of work and several of her rare and early silver gelatin photographs. Also at Starkwhite is new work and an accompanying

Fighting For The Warrior (Toa) Inside

By Sue Fea

A prominent member of Queenstown’s Maori community will stage a play in the resort this winter which he wrote 40 years ago to heal in the aftermath of losing someone dear to suicide.

Hud Rapata says he had never planned to release the play publicly but there’s been “enough talking and it’s time to act”.

He’s currently looking for actors – seven male and two female, to play the powerful monologue roles in the short play, inspired by real events that Hud experienced 40 years ago in Invercargill.

“The story emphasises the unfortunate circumstances around suicide, and while it’s sad and difficult, it needs to be said,” he says. “Nothing’s improved since that time. In fact the problem has grown insurmountably worse. The statistics for us Maori are devastating and here in New Zealand we have one of the highest suicide rates in the world.”

“The focus of the play isn’t on the victim, but the aftermath for those left behind as they deal with the trauma and have to live with it,” he says. “There’s often a lot of pre-build up and particular circumstances leading to a suicide.”

He’s done a lot of research in the past few years and decided it was time to air his play publicly. “I now have the courage to bring it into public view and face it myself.”

Hud, once an advisor to former Maori Affairs Minister Parekura Horomia, says he’s spoken to local businesspeople who want more of a holistic and encompassing approach to this issue in our community.

“Yes, it’s incredibly sad and traumatic, but hopefully this play will wake us up to what’s going on. I don’t know why this subject is still so taboo. It has to be opened up,” he says. “It’s an inhumane and desolate place for these

publication by John Reynolds, Australian artist Jonny Niesche, and others. Milford Galleries has a group exhibition including work by sculptor, jeweller, and carver Chris Charteris whose work draws from a unique and diverse cultural identity. At the core of Charteris’ practice is the cross-pollination and universality of forms alongside a deep love of materials.

Head to Romer Gallery for large-scale landscape photographs by Stephan Romer that explore the wild places and remote locations of Te Wai Pounamu/ the South Island. Also exhibiting as part of First Thursdays Queenstown is Lightworx, offering innovative combinations of light, colour, and space. Bringing together Starkwhite, Milford Galleries, Romer, Artbay, and Lightworx, First Thursdays Queenstown seeks to connect people with creativity across our town centre. Based around Earl Street and Marine Parade, the evening sees six art spaces offer exhibitions, talks, and opportunities to engage with the region’s creative community during a special late-night opening from 5–7pm. Thanks to the generosity of Akarua, join us for a glass of this region’s finest wines. Maps are available at the participating galleries and on the First Thursdays Queenstown instagram – @firstthursdaysqt – and facebook pages.

people to be and I’m urging them to get help and make a choice not to do it for those left behind.”

“There’s been enough talking being done. I’m propelled to stage this play and this will be an incredible event for Queenstown to hold,” he says.

“It’s time to care for the local community. Under all the development, development, development, people are homeless and can’t afford to live here, being forced to go to food banks.”

Hud says it had been frustrating trying to get some up-to-date statistics on local cases specific to this area.

Called ‘Toa’ (warrior) the play will launch in Queenstown in early July and Hud hopes to take it to Invercargill, where the story is based, then around NZ.

Once selected, the cast will rehearse for a few months. “It’s not just a doom and gloom story. The events leading up to that situation 40 years ago were funny, full of joking and banter on the Saturday, then he took his life on Monday. He was only 20 and a real darling, excelled in life, and it still amazes me why he did it. He was obviously putting on a brave persona, but suffering inside,” says Hud.

Hud is seeking funding help from the Mental Health Foundation for his project through its Puna Putea/Social Action Grants scheme launched to promote mental health awareness.

He and his supporters are also seeking local sponsorship and fundraising support to help get the play off the ground. “I will be pushing on regardless of funding though as there’s so much support from people who have lost whanau to suicide, and from the wider community,” he says.

To get involved:

Email: toaplaywriteqt2023@gmail.com (A page dedicated to Toa with further information will go up online soon.)

Chris Charteris, Wasekaseka (Opito Bay 2), 2023

Diana Watson, Florian II

Fiona Pardington, Portrait of Kimiakau Kiwi, 2023

Highlining in Gibbston Valley

By Jess Allen

The second annual Gibbston Valley Bridge Gathering will take place over the Easter Weekend. The social non-profit event will host enthusiasts from around Aotearoa for four days of highlining, camping, challenges and AcroYoga in front of a breath-taking backdrop.

The event started in 2022 due to a lack of highlining gatherings within the region –Queenstown is known as a hotspot for slacklining and highlining. This year, they’ve managed to pick up some sponsors and hope the momentum will continue in future years. There will be ten lines suited to a range of different levels and everyone is welcome to join in.

Carly Centracco and Gavin Lewis are Queenstown locals who are enthusiastic about highlining and the event’s organisers. They say that there’s a pretty close crew within Queenstown that get together every Wednesday for balance nights, and a handful who are super eager to highline.

“Slacklining is the umbrella sport and highlining is a discipline under the slacklining umbrella,” says Gavin.

“A highline is a slackline which is 15 metres or more up in the air. It’s exactly the same concept, it’s just higher up and so you have some more safety precautions and you’re tied in. Quite a few people do slacklining weekly in the gardens, but if we’re talking about highlining itself, it’s very niche and a smaller group. Especially in Queenstown, I would say there would probably

be no more than eight at the moment, who regularly go out to highline all over the Lakes District.”

The event is free and anyone is welcome to come watch. Many in the group will be camping at Wellspace, which will incur a small fee, but will include use of their sauna and cold plunge, pizza oven and a warm marquee. There will also be various award categories.

“We’re going to run a few fun events throughout the weekend, targeted for each category – so our very much experienced highliners, then the in between people and new people that are just starting out,” says Carly.

“It’s very much a gathering where we want to bring more people to try out highlining because it’s kind of hard to go out and find someone that highlines. This year we have ten lines, which is good because we have one for beginners – it is quite scary to try for your first time. We try to make the entire gathering as safe as possible, which is why we’ve introduced that line. Everybody’s able to try any line that they want.”

Slackline Queenstown is not currently a club, they’re more of a community, however they would love to develop into a club and introduce more members that are invested in it.

The event will run across the long weekend at Oxbow Adventures in Gibbston Valley and will be hosted on private land with permission from the owners. Those who attend will need to be aware of the risks, however there will be a rescue system on the day. You can get involved with the community through the Slackline Queenstown Facebook page and find out more about the event at the Gibbston Valley Bridge Gathering Facebook page.

New boss for Queenstown’s Southern Discoveries

By Paul Taylor

It’s all change at Queenstown’s Southern Discoveries as one of the country’s most experienced tourism professionals retires and an industry stalwart steps up.

Southern Discoveries owner Skeggs Group has announced the retirement of CEO Tim Hunter and confirmed the appointment of former GM Sales and Marketing Kerry Walker to the role of CEO.

Kerry has 25 years of tourism experience, the past four-and-a-half years of which have been spent at Southern Discoveries. In the previous 15 years, she worked in a range of senior sales and marketing roles for Ngai Tahu Tourism.

During her time with Southern Discoveries her sales and marketing skills have proved invaluable to the company, along with her strong network of industry relationships, company director David Skeggs says.

Southern Discoveries has been owned and operated by the Skeggs Group since 2009.

“It is fantastic that we have been able to make an internal appointment and give Kerry the opportunity to showcase her unique skills and experience that will continue to drive the company forward,” Skeggs says.

Tim Hunter retires after seven years spent as Southern Discoveries’ CEO following extensive experience in the New Zealand aviation, coach transport and destination marketing sectors.

Those roles have included working as a commercial pilot in the Southern Lakes area, holding airline planning roles with Air New Zealand, and working in a number of senior general management roles including GM Marketing with The Mount Cook Group during the 1990s.

Tim broadened his international market experience with Tourism New Zealand as Regional Manager for Americas & Europe and General Manager Operations, and in 2010 became Chief Executive of Christchurch & Canterbury Tourism (CCT).

“Tim has done a superb job of running the business during his tenure especially during some very challenging times during Covid,” Skeggs says.

“He would be the first to say he couldn’t have done it without the support of all his team and I’m sure he will be missed by all.”

Kerry says Southern Discoveries is an industry leader that delivers exceptional nature experiences in this unique part of New Zealand.

“I’ve always worked within businesses that show off the very best of New Zealand’s scenery, adventure and hospitality, and align with my values of preservation and social sustainability.

“Southern Discoveries fits that bill perfectly.”

Kerry takes up her new role on July 17.

Kerry Walker takes over CEO role in July

Taking tacos to new heights

by Sue Fea

Theirs is a story that echoes the foundations of the now legendary Fergburger brand, which also started out in a back alley hole-in-the-wall in Queenstown. However, for Taco Medic founder cousins Ant Wilkins and Robbie McGillivray entrepreneurial innovation was in the blood. Their uncles, Rob and Greg Hay, are renowned locally for their successful Chard Farm and Wet Jacket wine labels. So when freshly-graduated commerce student Wilkins was lying on a beach by a taqueria in Mexico in 2014 it was a ‘eureka moment’.

‘The taquerias piqued my interest,” he says. “I’d been inspired by our family of innovators – that lifestyle. I thought: this food doesn’t exist in NZ. The tacos were healthier. I thought Kiwis would be into this, so I called Robbie, who was working in cafes back in Queenstown, and said, ‘What about this idea?’”

McGillivray, who studied business and horticulture locally, was all in and the pair built their taco truck at their Arrowtown flat, much to the neighbours’ delight.

“We had day jobs and we kitted it out with our power tools over a few Coronas in the evenings, with mates,” says Wilkins.

They were 26 and 23. Wilkins says he thinks it’s the way they were raised that’s inspired their entrepreneurial spirit.

“We’re passionate and when we get an idea and want to do something there’s no holding us back.”

They launched in Brecon Street adjacent to Outside Sports on December 29, 2014 – peak season, winning popularity among mountain bikers before advancing to their hole-in-the-wall operation in Searle Lane. It was hard slog for two years, but the effort didn’t faze them.

“We’d both borrowed $10,000 off our parents. We desperately didn’t want to fail.

“There’s a lot of fun associated with tacos – good times, margaritas and beaches. That suited us.” Luckily, it paid off with Taco Medic soaring to number one on Trip Advisor in Queenstown where it remained for almost four years, fighting off some 240 Queenstown restaurants. Playing good music, taking care of customers and offering a discount to locals as the secret sauce that’s kept them going.

“Our first customers paid $7 and we were so grateful, saying ‘thank you so much’. We were genuine, they could see that,” says Wilkins.

“People are your greatest asset. You need to make sure they’re looked after.”

There have been bad decisions, but good ones too, with the pair unafraid to adapt and change.

“As soon as the first lockdown happened we created a fully-customised online ordering app and loyalty programme, offering free tacos to join.”

QR codes were trialled but they lost that important personal customer interaction.

“We pride ourselves on having a professional interface in a digital landscape.”

They have 20,000 social media followers worldwide, but many from Christchurch, Dunedin and Auckland. In January last year they turned around and followed their Auckland fans back, launching a 60-seater, dine-in taqueria in Ponsonby. A great opportunity followed in Quay Street there where they then opened a larger 100-seat restaurant bar-style taqueria. Searle Lane, now expanded to 30 seats, inside and out, is joined by the 50-seater Five Mile Frankton taqueria. They also operate two taco trucks, popular at events, like weddings.

All this expansion was made possible, despite 2020 hold-ups, after delighting the tastebuds of

an American customer, Trevor, from Oregon. “He loved our tacos, the experience, and brought his kids every day. He was interested in NZ and inspired by our beach heritage,” says Ant. After keeping in touch for 18 months they brought Trevor on board as a third partner investor, opening the Five Mile store together, once Covid restrictions allowed.

Ant and Robbie now employ about 70 staff and have their own HR director, but still make the gluten free corn tortillas from scratch with the team. “We make tacos every day, working shoulder to shoulder with our staff, passing on our passion and that perfection.” The pair say they couldn’t be as hands on doing what they love without the input of general manager Glenn Peat, who brings 30 years of international hospitality experience. “We didn’t have the experience or the know-how with a multi-faceted business and Glenn does so that’s been amazing.”

Bumper record grape yield for Central

Harvesting underway early

by Sue Fea

Overseas workers play an integral role in the Central Otago grape harvest. Central Otago vineyards have had a phenomenal growing season and some have already begun harvesting in what’s expected to be a record bumper grape harvest – at least 10 to 15 percent more than normal for some.

International award-winning Gibbston winegrower Grant Taylor, who put Central Otago pinot noir on the map with four golds at the prestigious International Wine Competition in London from 2001, is predicting record volumes at his local Valli Wines’ vineyards.

A veteran of the local wine industry, Grant’s now on his 31st Central Otago vintage and says the fantastic hot summer is translating into earlier harvests, depending where and what variety. “There shouldn’t be any unripe grapes which means the wines will be nice and rich and full bodied,” says Grant, whose team began harvesting Valli’s first grapes on Thursday (March 23) –at least a week early.

“It’s a heavier crop than expected – at least 10 to 15 percent up in volume for us. This could possibly be the biggest, record sized harvest ever, even bigger than 2008 which was a huge vintage, and there have been more grapes planted in vineyards since then.” Fruit quality is also looking to set records too.

“I’m excited to start the ride and it looks like it will be a very, very good ride.” Costs for winegrowers have shot up with labour costs doubling in the last few years, says Grant. “Barrels, fuel, everything’s gone up, and with inflation up some 10 percent over the last two years. We’ve barely kept our heads above water.”

Wine prices have remained the same for two to three years and while Grant says wine lovers can expect a 10 to 15 percent cost increase passed on it won’t hit until this vintage is on the shelves next year.

“We’re selling last year’s vintage now and it doesn’t seem right to increase the price when it didn’t cost us more. It’s just the right thing to do.” However, a 2024 price increase goes without saying. “We’re not greedy. We just need to stay alive,” says Grant, whose Valli label is set to produce 7000 cases in this next vintage from its Gibbston, Bannockburn, Bendigo and Waitaki vineyards. However, local growers are exceptionally grateful and feel deeply for their friends in Hawkes Bay after what they’re enduring due to Cyclone Gabrielle, he says.

Central Otago Winegrowers Association’s Jake Tipler says this season has been fantastic for the local industry with really good grape yields. Uneven flowering at the start of the season made it hard to predict crop levels resulting in an abundance of grapes. “There’s even talk of a few extra grapes floating out onto the spot market which is not super common,” says Jake. Our long hot summer means the grapes are showing good tannin levels. “That’s the sweet spot – the Goldilocks Zone, and we’re in that now. Everyone’s really happy,” says Jake. The yield across Central Otago is likely to be up at least five to 10 percent, producing some 12,000 tonnes, he says. Labour has been a big additional cost factor for growers but Jake says the bigger crops may keep those prices down once that lag from production to sales has passed next year.

Otago

Pacific island hawkes bay vineyard workers help with Central Otago harvest

Between 60 and 70 Pacific Island vineyard workers, whose Hawkes Bay workplaces were wiped out or destroyed by Cyclone Gabrielle, have been transferred to Central Otago to help with the harvest.

It’s the first time in several years Central Otago vineyards are not being plagued by labour shortages with their bumper, early harvest upon them. While some of the workers may be surplus now that overseas worker visas and RSE (Registered Seasonal Employment) visas have been increased, winegrowers say they desperately wanted to help their devastated Hawkes Bay counterparts.

Industry contractors and co-operatives have been re-placing the workers, many from Vanuatu, throughout Central Otago and some will then move on to Marlborough for winter pruning, says Central Otago Winegrowers Association general manager Jake Tipler.

Local winegrowers feel hugely for their Hawkes Bay counterparts, many of whom have had their life’s work and vineyards completely wiped out by Cyclone Gabrielle last month (February), he says. Some winemakers and viticulturists left without a harvest have also been invited to join some Central Otago winemakers. “It’s very depressing for these people not being able to make wine any year in a good 20-plus season career. Marlborough has done the same,” says Jake. “We’ve tried to re-home them as it’s pretty gutting. Their grapes have been wiped out, the harvest they’ve worked for. We’ve heard some horrific stories that would make a grown man cry. They’ve lost everything.”

An estimated 600 RSE workers, many from Vanuatu, come to Central Otago each summer season alone to work in viticulture and orchards, many of them sending money back to family.

Grape Vision viticulturist James Dicey says with only 1.7 percent unemployment locally the industry’s heavily reliant on the trained RSE workers coming back each season to Central Otago. With the recent cyclone in the Hawkes Bay RSE employers have worked together to transfer RSE workers who were due to go to the Hawkes Bay to other regions, including Central Otago. However, government RSE visa conditions weren’t waived meaning local employers have had to pay between $350 and $400 per worker to free the RSE workers up from one region to another, which was disappointing.

Seasonal Solutions CEO Shaun Fogerty says it’s a juggling act moving RSE workers around South Island vineyards and housing them. Developers in Cromwell and Alexandra are looking at building staff accommodation but a current nationwide RSE review has made them cautious, as has rising inflation and building costs

“We brought 35 extra RSE vineyard workers here who couldn’t be employed,” says Shaun. “Bringing 60 or 70 Hawkes Bay workers here is Central Otago’s way of helping support Hawkes Bay and the wider crisis. It’s been a real collective support network that’s come together to help those in Hawkes Bay so their Pacific staff have work and can support their families back home.”

Happy in their work – overseas vineyard workers on the job.

Checking out the quality – overseas vineyard workers help with the Central Otago harvest.

Building Labourer Wanted

For full time residential building work. Previous experience in the construction industry is required. Competitive hourly rate. Must have full drivers licence and own reliable transport.

Good spoken English essential.

Contact Mike on 027 566 3489 or email mikekelly77@hotmail.com

Is looking for Trainee cook

Front of House

Please drop your CV into The Cow

Positions available:

HOUSEPERSON

PUBLIC AREA CLEANER

HOUSEKEEPING

SUPERVISOR

Starting Rate $25 per hour

Shared staff accommodation is optional

Please apply to kim_haynes@evt.com

WANTED!

Hospitality professional

Looking for casual, temporary or long term work??

Queenstown Personnel and Labour Hire are looking for labourers for a variety of jobs around Queenstown with an immediate start.

Contact Sharleen - 027 778 7377 or email sharleen@qtplabour.co.nz

Amisfield Restaurant & Cellar Door located at Lake Hayes in Queenstown, provides their guests with the ultimate wine and food experience. Our team are dynamic, creative, friendly and talented, coming together to showcase the best wine and food New Zealand has to o�fer.

We are looking for like individuals to join our team: Waitsta�f

Cellar Door Host

And there’s a barrel load of benefits when it comes to working with Amisfield including great pay rates, generous wine allowance, discounts on our wine, dining and golf, free health insurance, designer uniforms and yummy sta�f meals.

Jump online to join our team www.amisfield.co.nz/careers

Just one more to complete our team!

Maybe you?

Skills required – Experience in a busy front of house setting. A first, second, and top gear. A hospitality radar. If it’s in your blood… we want to talk to you.

We offer – daytime hours. Free up your evenings. Top pay for the right candidate. Express your interest now scott@thedishery.co.nz or call/txt 021 664 553

Full-time

Office Admin / Driver Role

Unique and exciting role based in Frankton. Must have office experience & NZ licence with ability to obtain P Endorsement.

Email interest and CV to: sarah@appellationwinetours.nz

Blanket Bay are currently inviting expressions of interest for the following.

SENIOR CHEF DE PARTIE

The successful applicant will have experience in a quality fine dining environment and may be looking to further broaden their skill set and culinary repertoire. Must have 3-4 years of experience in a fine dining setting.

PASTRY CHEF

With proven experience in fine cuisine, we are seeking a candidate with sound organisational skills and a flair for creativity. A minimum of 4-5 years experience in a similar role is required.

We offer excellent remuneration and a great work life balance.

Subsidised accommodation is available in the Glenorchy area.

Own transportation is advantageous.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a 5-star Relais and Chateaux property and work with a dedicated, passionate, and creative team.

Interested persons are invited to forward their resume and cover letter to

Daniel Reynolds, Executive Chef chef@blanketbay.com

Is currently seeking CHEFS / LINE COOKS

$25 per hour to start, potentially more based on experience

If you're interested in joining one of Queenstown's iconic restaurants and bars email your CV to chris@smithscraftbeer.co.nz or apply in person. Valid working visa required.

Assistant Manager

We are an independently run friendly backpacker hostel in central Queenstown and we are looking for an enthusiastic manager to join the team.

If you enjoy working with people, have great customer facing skills, some management experience and able to work flexible hours we’d love to hear from you.

On site accommodation is available

Previous experience would be great but not essential. Working Visa is required, this is a long term role.

Apply by emailing Neil@stayatsouthern or see us at 4 Isle St, Queenstown

To apply please email fran@zigzagzoo.co.nz

PLASTERBOARD STOPPERS

• Competent and hardworking

• Own tools and transport

• Competitive rates

• Trade Experience of at least 2-3 years required APPLY IN CONFIDENCE TO angleinteriors@xtra.co.nz

OR TEXT 027 330 3083 IN WORK HOURS

Must hold a current work visa. No sponsorship available

Back dropped by the Remarkables Mountain Range, Jack’s Point is a truly unique destination from which to experience Queenstown’s stunning scenery while enjoying some local fare. We are looking for fun, like-minded team members to join us.

Chefs – all levels

Front of House / Waitpersons

And there’s a whole load of benefits when it comes to working with us - a generous wine allowance, discounts on our wine, restaurant and golf, free health insurance, great sta�f meals and the opportunity to develop your skills and advance your career

To find out more, please visit our Careers page www.jackspoint.com/employment

ONE DOG FURNITURE

Experienced Cabinet Maker / Joiner / Furniture Maker Glenda Drive, Frankton, Queenstown $35 to $39.99 per hour * Full time

Bring our clients designs to life by producing expertly crafted pieces of furniture and cabinetry.

Come and join our experienced team, minimum 2 years experience in cabinet making working with solid timber, veneers and particleboard.

High attention to detail, ability to read plans and cutting lists. Experience using wood working machinery, power and hand tools.

Enquires to info@onedogfurniture.co.nz or ph 03 451 0010

Part-time / Casual

Driver Guide

Love wine? Looking for extra hours?

Become a Wine Guide!

NZ Class 1 & P licence required. Full training provided. Email interest to:

sarah@appellationwinetours.nz

WE'REHIRING!

JointheteamatNewZealand sultimatecollectionoffinedining,consistingof TheGrille&No.5ChurchLane.

Wearelookingforconfident,energeticandexperiencedprofessionals,whostriveto deliverahighstandardofservicetoourguests.

Withpermanentandparttimepositionsavailable,wecanalsooffercareergrowth opportunitiesthroughsponsorshipfortherightcandidate.

COURSE GREENKEEPER

Arrowtown golf course is a unique and “must play” course, located in New Zealand`s pre-eminent golfing destination of Queenstown. The Arrowtown Golf Club has a strong, passionate membership and a welcoming Club atmosphere.

We invite applications for the position of Course Greenkeeper to work within our greens team to help deliver to the Clubs Long Term Plan and realise the vision for this wonderful piece of natural landscape. You will play a key role in creating and maintaining one of New Zealand's premiere golf courses and protecting our wonderful heritage.

Applicants will need to prove they have

• Comprehensive skills in turf management, with appropriate qualifications

• Ability to operate and maintain machinery and equipment as per standard operating procedures

• A strong commitment to Health and Safety, and the ability to execute on this

• Proven record of operating positively and productively within a team culture

• Willingness to undertake extra training as required to implement new technology, techniques or practices as determined by the employer

• Flexibility in work hours to meet demands as they arise

• Pride and great work ethic and commitment in your work (Attention to detail).

• Eligibility to work in New Zealand

• Minimum of a restricted NZ Drivers licence

Pay is negotiable to experience, with attractive terms and conditions.

TO APPLY

FOR THIS

OPPORTUNITY

IN

CONFIDENCE,

Please email cover letter and a short CV to course@arrowtowngolf.co.nz

APPRENTICE REFRIGERATION MECHANIC

Welco is a leading refrigeration and air conditioning company that provides quality service to commercial and residential clients in Queenstown and the surrounding areas. We're looking for an enthusiastic and motivated individual to join our team as an Apprentice Refrigeration Mechanic.

Responsibilities:

• Assist in the installation, maintenance, and repair of refrigeration and air conditioning systems

• Troubleshoot and diagnose problems with refrigeration and air conditioning systems

Requirements:

• A valid driver's license and reliable transportation

• Ability to work well in a team environment

• Good communication and interpersonal skills

• Ability to work at heights and in confined spaces

• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail

• A positive attitude and willingness to learn

Benefits:

• Technical training and on-the-job learning

• A supportive and friendly team environment

• Company-provided safety gear and equipment

If you are interested, please submit your application to tess@welco.nz

We look forward to hearing from you!

AVIS & Budget Queenstown

CAR GROOMERS

We are looking for fun and motivated people to join our team of car groomers. The role is non-customer facing, shifts are 8am to 5.30pm and transport from the city to the place of work in Frankton can be arranged if necessary.

Full time hours available, all you need is NZ working rights, a full valid drivers licence and an eye for detail

Estamos buscando personal para unirse a nuestro grupo de Car Groomers. Ingles no es necesario, puede aprender mientras trabajas.

Solo debes tener predisposicion, ojo para el detalle y licencia de conducir. Trabajo full time, solo necesitas permiso para trabajar en NZ y licencia de conducir

Apply via email in English or Spanish to qtworkshop@abgroup.co.nz

ACCOUNTS ADMINISTRATOR CAREER Opportunity

We have a great opportunity for an Accounts Administrator to work with our accounts team on the administration of our trust account, payroll duties and controls analysis. This hands-on role is based in our Queenstown office and will suit someone who has advanced administration and communication skills and has a high attention to detail. Full training in all of our systems and process will be given with the option to make this role 30 hours per week for the right candidate.

Key accountabilities include:

• Being the first point of contact with solicitors

• Maintaining our systems to the highest level of accuracy

• Monitoring the status of all contracts throughout the whole process

• Preparation of the the weekly agent payroll

• Managing and analysing the financial performance for the Property Management side of the business

Key requirements:

• 3+ years’ experience working in an administration capacity in the legal or accounting fields

• Skills in contract law and / or basic accounting knowledge including Xero would be an advantage

• Proven strong communication skills both verbal and written

• Advanced skills in Microsoft Office suite

• A high level of accuracy and attention to detail

• Having a practical, solutions based approach

Please apply by sending through your cv to annette@steapconsulting.co.nz

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We have incredible opportunities in a variety of roles with shifts and hours that will suit whatever you are looking for across our 3 Queenstown properties.

HOUSEKEEPING SUPERVISORS

MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR –COPTHORNE LAKEVIEW

PORTERS

FOOD & BEVERAGE ATTENDANTS

CHEF DE PARTIE – SOUS CHEF LAUNDRY ATTENDANTS

Applicants must have:

Current NZ Driver’s License

Be well organized

Be motivated and reliable

Works to a very high standard

Have an ability to work independently or as part of a team

We are looking for a maintenance plumber to join our team!

If you have problem solving skills, like each day to be different then this is the job for you! Company van supplied.

If successful you will be joining a professional team with a proven track record & performance.

Please send CV to enquiries@advantageqt.co.nz

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

and be a part of Republic Hospitality Group

•Tired of being bored at work?

•Want to make your Queenstown life epic!

•Looking to meet a fun and friendly crew?

Republic Hospitality Group has 10 venues in Queenstown, and we offer casual, part-time and full-time work. So whether it’s bar, restaurant or kitchen work you’re interested in, we’ve got it available at all levels

Our perks are pretty hard to beat:

• Staff pricing (did someone say great deals on food & drink?)

• Staff accommodation options

• Epic staff parties

• Great staff incentives

• A trusting culture

• Competitive pay

• Free staff meals

• Training and upskilling

• A welcoming and friendly team

Republic is a finalist in the NZ Hospitality Awards for Excellence in People & Culture for a reason. Get in touch and join us today, email HR@republicqt.co.nz and tell us what you’re looking for.

Check out our venues at www.republichospitality.co.nz

SENIOR CHEF DE PARTIE/CHEF DE PARTIE

If you are inspired by Asian/Pacifica food and want to be part of a top kitchen team, then we want to hear from you. We love what we create so it is important that you enjoy the industry and can handle a busy vibe and have the skill set to match.

What's in it for you:

• Market leading rate for the right candidate

• No split shi s

• Sta perks, including sta meal and beverage

• Work in a great team environment

• Full time position, with guaranteed hours

What we are looking for:

• Minimum of proven 3 years’ experience

• Good work ethic

• Team player

If you are looking to take the next step in a thriving and popular restaurant, then please get in touch!!

Must have a valid NZ Work Visa

Check out our website www.bluekanu.co.nz www.bluekanu.co.nz and send your CV and info through to Warren (General Manager) warren.ratana@gmail.com or pop in and see us a er 4pm

Subsidiary of Queenstown Taxis

WORKSHOP AND UPHOLSTERY Ph 03 450 2920

Full time Mechanic position available with immediate start

We are seeking a skilled and experienced Mechanic to join our expanding Queenstown business based in Gorge Road and are offering a competitive remuneration.

The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining, repairing, and servicing a wide range of vehicles, from cars, vans and trucks.

You must have extensive knowledge of various vehicle systems and the ability to diagnose and troubleshoot problems. You should be able to work independently basically being your own boss, and be able to communicate effectively with clients. If you meet the requirements for this position and are passionate about vehicle repair and maintenance, please email Grant on manager@queenstowntaxis.com or phone 021 450 291

NZ REGISTERED ELECTRICIAN

We're looking for a NZ Registered Electrician, with NZ based experience. Our work is primarily in the Residential and Light Commercial space and what's important to us is that you are flexible, take pride in your work, have a great attitude and want to be part of a highly successful team. You may live locally or, you may be thinking about making that change from a city lifestyle to the great outdoors, either way Queenstown is a great place to live.

Laser Electrical Queenstown is a family owned and operated business who have been recognised for numerous Laser Group NZ awards during their 22 years in business and in 2021 successfully won the NZ Electrical Business of the Year Award 2021. Here's what we need from you:

• NZ Registered Electrician with a full, valid NZ driver's licence

• Experience in all aspects of general repairs & maintenance work, small installations, alterations & renovation work and new home installations.

• Highly skilled tradesperson who takes pride in their work

• Customer-focused approach and comfortable dealing with a variety of clients in a professional and friendly manner

• Excellent time management & communication skills and the ability to work unsupervised

• Great attitude and team player

In return, we will offer:

• A variety of work with competitive pay rates

• Full-time permanent role and ongoing job security

• Supportive, strong team environment

• Work vehicle, uniform, and phone provided

• Health Insurance, annual Wellbeing funding and ongoing opportunities to upskill

At Laser Electrical Queenstown we pride ourselves on investing in our employees' success. We're committed to providing a safe and stable working environment, as well as ongoing opportunities for up-skilling and development.

Join Laser Electrical Queenstown and discover a career with room for growth, job satisfaction, and a company culture that values its people.

If this sounds like you then contact us today03 442 396 or 027 438 8709 queenstown@laserelectrical.co.nz

Recreational Services – Vacancies

Mower Operators – Permanent, full-time

If you enjoy working outdoors, have an awesome work ethic and have your full driver’s licence then this role will suit you! We are looking for 3 Mower Operators to join our high-performing Queenstown or Wanaka team. What does a Mower Operator do you ask? Well for starters you get to work across some of the most spectacular scenery NZ has to offer. You will be responsible for general parks and grounds maintenance including (and we will train you if you're not an expert), mowing, weed eating, basic mechanical maintenance of plant, and ensuring that the grounds always look well presented. This is a varied, physical role upkeeping our local community, where you will be a highly valued member of the team!

Outdoor Cleaners – Permanent, full-time or fixed-term full-time

Curious about what an Outdoor Cleaner does? The role will see you working across some of the region’s most picturesque locations. This could be working in Gibbston one day, Arrowtown the next or on the lake front in Frankton or Queenstown. The catch is you will need to clean public toilets, BBQs, bus stops and drinking fountains. Most days are plane sailing, others you just roll up your sleeves and get on with the job. Housekeeping is no better, at least with us you are free to enjoy the outdoors! No experience is required and but must have a valid visa.

Recreational Services are a business which specialises in sports turf management and have diversified into a professional full facility parks maintenance company, operating in 14 locations across New Zealand. For more information on the roles above or to apply, please contact Rebecca Campbell at rebecca@rs.kiwi.nz

We'reHiring MedicalReceptionist

Wearelookingforacustomerservicesuperstarto supportourpatientsandclinicalteams.OurFirst ImpressionsTeamworksacrossourfourpractices, supportingpatients,managingappointments& enrolments,andmuchmore...

ProfessionsLearning& Development

Social...

EmployeeAssistance Program Plusmanymore perks

Ifyouthinksupportingourcommunitytowardsbetterhealth soundslikesomethingyouwanttobeapartof,please send usyourCVandacoverletterandletusknowwhyyou'rethe bestpersonforthisjob:HR@QMC.CO.NZ

YoumustbeeligibletoworkinNewZealandtobe consideredforthisopportunity.Allapplicationswillbe acknowledgedandonlyshortlistedcandidateswillbe contactedforinterviews.

Jucy Snooze Queenstown are looking for energetic and enthusiastic people to join us in our re opening!

You don’t need experience to work with us! We offer staff benefits from staff accommodation to car rentals and Food & Beverage discounts!

Housekeeping Room Attendant (Starting from $25.00 an hour)

Chef roles (at all levels)

Night Manager

Please send through your resume to marcos_diniz@jucysnooze.co.nz

Royalburn Farmshop - Assistant Retail Manager

We are looking for a experienced retailer with a proven track record, who shares our philosophy of Farm to Plate, who is a passionate foodie and who is able to assist our discerning customers with a confident service style.

Responsibilities include, assisting the Retail Manager to:

• Lead from the front and set the expectations for our team

• Assist in store operations to ensure compliance and e iciency

• Ensure rostering, ordering and stock control (including stocktake) is undertaken

If you are a customer-centric person with a confident leadership style and strong administrative skills, this could be the perfect opportunity for you!

View the full criteria for this role on our jobs page at royalburn.co.nz and apply via the link or enquire directly to people@royalburn.co.nz

Joinourteam andbreak

free fromthe Matrix!

Areyou the best stainless-steel welder fabricator out there?

Our workshop is based in Wanaka. Great team environment and a 4-day working (Monday to Thursday) week to ensure you can enjoy a 3-day weekend every weekend! So, you can get your powder and dirt days in all year round and enjoy everything living in Wanaka has to offer. We are still open 5 days a week, the Boss has Friday covered! Find out more – get in touch with either Rowan or Olly.

Full Time Client Advisor Opportunities Available!

KITCHENHAND

Blue Kanu is a popular Asian/Pacifica style restaurant, unique in QT, and we pride ourselves on the food and service we deliver to our customers. We have a great atmosphere, lots of laughs and good vibes!!

We are looking for a kitchenhand superstar to join our team! Evenings only, 5 days a week

Opportunity for you to earn some extra income. Training provided. Must have a valid NZ work visa.

Please send your CV to warren@hhgroup.nz or pop in and see us a er 4pm.

For more than 150 years Louis Vuitton has shared the spirit of excellence and passion. Founded at the dawn of the modern travel era, Louis Vuitton is on a perpetual mission to explore new horizons, propelled by an innovative spirit, boundless creativity, and unparalleled Savoir-faire.

Our agile and innovative retail teams have the power to share Louis Vuitton's history and ensure our brands success. Our top priority is each client’s experience, inspiring them in store across our product universe, and taking them on a journey of discovery through our passionate knowledge and a unique sense of service and initiative, listening and curiosity.

We never stop dreaming, we cra new realities. Join our retail team and be a part of an ever-changing adventure.

We are looking for client centric sales experts for our Queenstown store with experience gained from working within retail, hospitality, or customer service.

Are you an adventurous person who is looking for a refreshing and exciting change?

Jet Boat Driver

We’re looking for someone amazing to join our team here at Glenorchy!

Full training to Dart River Adventure standards

Maritime NZ Jet Boat licence

Competitive remuneration

Future career development

Medical insurance and wellbeing support Company and Queenstown discounts

Apply online: h ps://mahi.ngaitahu.iwi.nz

We’re HIRING!

As a Client Advisor, you will be an ambassador of Louis Vuitton, daring to discover our valued clients and ensuring the Louis Vuitton promise of unparalleled service is delivered. You will bring your desire to exceed expectations, drive for sales results and passion for creating and maintaining exceptional client relationships.

Please scan the code below and apply today by emailing your CV to our ANZ Talent Team.

We'relooking forconfidentand passionate peopleto be akey partof creatinguniqueandmeaningful experiences for our exclusiveguests.

VACANCIES INCL UDE:

We canofferpermanent& casualroles, with competitivehourly rates, andasociableenvironment. We areanaccredited employer and can provide full trainingand career-growthopportunities.

APPLY TODAY!

AVIS & Budget Queenstown

RENTAL SALES AGENT

Do you enjoy working in a fast paced environment where the days go quickly?

Do you enjoy meeting and talking to people from all over the world?

Do you appreciate a consistent working roster because your life outside of work is important too?

If you answered yes to any of these then maybe this customer service, sales and office administration based role is the new job for you.

Full Time & Part Time contracts available with set days off, Shifts are mostly 8am to 5.30pm with at least one evening shift per week. The role also requires you to work weekends or at least one weekend day per week. You'd be based out of our Queenstown Airport office in Frankton.

What you need:

• Full drivers licence

• Good command of the English language

• Working rights in New Zealand

Please send a CV to:

Claire.hampson@abgroup.co.nz

NOW HIRING

hair stylists | senior stylists

are you ready to elevate your career as a stylist?

Get ready to elevate your career in 2023 with one of new Zealand’s leading hair salons! We’re growing and looking for amazing, talented and passionate hairstylists to join our award-winning team.

We offer fabulous rates of pay, incredible commissions + leading bonus incentives. If you’re passionate about hairdressing, looking for a great team culture and want to elevate your career with some of the best education opportunities available then you need to join us!

For a 100% confidential chat, email ironandivyhair@gmail.com or check out @ironandivyhair on instagram + tiktok. It’s time to make your hair dreams come true.

We

We are looking for:

•Sous Chef

•Senior Chef de Partie

•Commis Chef, and a

•Fixed Term Cleaning/Kitchen Hand

We can offer:

•Full time & part time roles

•Visa sponsorship

•Paid overtime & time and a

A rare opportunity to work in a small team at Southern PR delivering communications advice and implementing public relations strategies for a range of clients.

The role – Account Executive

• Social media strategy and implementation

• Creating content for social media channels

• Document writing (media releases, blogs, newsletters, advertising copy, strategy documents/proposals)

• Creating and implementing client campaigns

• Client reports

About you

• Graduate role or up to two years’ experience

• A natural communicator with strong written and verbal communication skills

• A forward-thinker, able to multi-task and manage competing demands and deadlines

• Comfortable working in a fast-moving environment, delivering under pressure

Immediate start available.

Applications close Wednesday April 12 2023

Please email your CV, cover letter and examples of work relative to the role to fiona@southernpr.co.nz

Applicants must have the right to live and work in New Zealand

Office Assistant - Maternity Cover

(Fixed term, May 2023 – Feb 2024)

Our clients, suppliers and colleagues can be loud, rude and funny. Can you handle it? Based at our Frankton workshop you will shine at the front desk of our busy retail showroom. Ideally, you will have customer service experience, accounts processing knowledge and the ability to prioritize work unsupervised.

• Flexible hours, Mon - Fri, minimum 25 hours per week

Contact Zoe for more details or email your CV to zoe@shotoverengineering.co.nz

RETAIL DUTY MANAGERS – FULL TIME AND CASUAL POSITIONS AVAILABLE

We are a locally owned and operated liquor retailer based in Queenstown, Frankton, Arrowtown and Wanaka and were on the hunt for warm, welcoming, customer focused, self-motivated individuals to join our friendly team. We have full time, part time, and casual roles available.

What sort of people are we looking for:

• 20 years of age or over

• Happy, positive, full of energy, a real people person

• Understand the fundamentals of working in retail

• A self-starter capable of working well by yourself

• Passionate and knowledgeable (or keen to learn) about local wine and beer

• Willing to obtain an LCQ and Managers Certificate

• Committed to Queenstown for the foreseeable future

The role:

• Look after our customers in a sole-charge position

• Maintain a clean, well-stocked, beautiful looking store

• Engage with customers, ask questions, and drive sales

• Comply with the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act and Host Responsibility policies

• Support the store manager with an array of operational tasks and projects, including stock ordering, stocktakes, banking, cash handling, merchandising, and much more!

What you get:

• A starting rate of $25 per hour (more if you already have your LCQ and Managers Certificate)

• Work and play in one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand

• Work with a great bunch of people who love what they do

• Fixed hours right through the year or for casual positions hours that suit you

• Staff discounts and product training

• The opportunity to learn and grow in the industry

If you already have your LCQ and Managers Certificate and you love your current job but want to earn extra money, our casual positions let you accept shifts as they become available.

If this sounds like you please send a copy of your CV and a short email telling us about yourself to ferg@bettys.co.nz

JOINTHETEAMAT EICHARDT'SBAR

WORKINQUEENSTOWN'SMOSTICONICBAR

We'relookingforexperiencedbartenderstojointheteamat Eichardt'sBar.Therightcandidateispassionateaboutcocktails, craft-focusedwithanabsoluteeyefordetail,andcandelivera polishedfoodandbeverageexperienceforourguests.Thisrole requiresflexibilitytoworkeveningsandweekends.

Thinkyouhavewhatittakes?Applytoday!

Some positions available:

Queenstown

•Team Leader – Food & Beverage ($27-$29 per hour)

•PR & Partnerships Manager

•Sales Support Executive

•Online Travel Agent Executive

•Assistant Accountant

•Business Applications Manager

•Business Applications Support

Further afield

•Crew (Discovery Expeditions) – Fiordland

•Wharf Assistant – Rakiura

•People & Performance Business Partner –Fiordland/Rakiura

•People & Performance Advisor – Fiordland/Rakiura

Cardrona x Treble Cone are now hiring!