Have you ever had the feeling that driving from A to B in your hometown is not as simple and risk free as it should be? I have. Many times, hence, the need to keep up with the latest 5 star safety rating in your family vehicle when commuting around this district.
Case in point. Driving like most days, with daughter number two along Arrowtown Lake Hayes Road. Nice day for it, I thought, taking this child of mine to ballet lessons in her pink tutu. No traffic ahead until I noticed a green van in my lane, obviously traveling in the same direction as me, or not, as it turned out.
What freaked me out most was my brain’s very slow reaction time to realising this green van was not going in the same direction. It was just so unexpected to see a green van in my lane coming towards me on a collision course that was split seconds away. Just before I took evasive action into the side of road ditch, just outside Mora (a very good if not the best lunch venue town) the “foreign” looking bloke in the green van looked up. Surprise is the way I would describe the look on face. Then he started laughing as he swerved back into his rightful line and continued on. No harm done except for the nightmares this Dad of three young kids feels now, every time he takes to the roads with his precious cargo onboard. Fearful of every f-wit the rental car industry does business with.
It doesn’t get any better in winter with our over stretched mostly volunteer emergency responders picking up the pieces and sending those still breathing to our over stretched and underfunded local hospitals. Usually by way of community funded emergency helicopter services. Sounds expensive because it is. Not only in dollar terms but emotional terms as well. It’s messy and ugly for all involved. In a death by blunt force trauma sort of way. But let’s not discriminant. New Zealanders are known as some of the worst drivers in the world. Our biggest problem is our inflated sense of our own greatness as drivers. I’m an excellent driver of course, so would never make a silly mistake, yet I have, more than once.
The point here is tourists are rented cars on dodgy local roads when they have no idea what ice, grit and a dotted white line in the middle means. If I was the Dictator of all things, I’d charge the rental company Jucy, Hertz, Budget or whoever, for every cent of the damage done to local people, property, rescue and hospital treatment. These services are for us, the people who live here. User pays, and double for f-wits. But this is a pipe dream to think those muppets in Wellington politicians give a hoot about us. So, my real point as a local Dad, is prepare and drive like your life and the lives or your dearest depends on it. Because it does.
Scott Stevens, Lakes Weekly Bulletin
Primary school teacher Abby Cavanagh thought her engagement ring was lost forever, before a remarkable spot by her fiancé Dan 11 days later. Read more p4
Rewi steps forward
by Paul Taylor
Well-known local Darren Rewi has joined the race to be the next mayor of Queenstown Lakes.
One of Central Otago’s most senior kaumātua (Māori elder), the 62-year-old father-of-six has decades of leadership, governance and community work under his belt.
Rewi says he intends to campaign on a platform of change, as he takes on incumbent mayor Glyn Lewers, candidates John Glover and Nik Kiddle, and others yet to announce their run in the October election.
“The electorate is exhausted from issue after issue being exposed and an Executive Leadership Team and council that has yet to see that they are on a burning platform,” he says.
“Removing barriers created to control the elected councillors’ decisionmaking process is key to open transparent governance.”
If elected, he plans to enable councillors to come together and understand each other’s values and goals, and says he’ll lead through accountability.
“That’s through the Mayor and the CEO developing an open and transparent working relationship, key to that is a ‘no surprises’ policy for the mayor and the elected council. So much time is wasted having to manage emergencies, so the community through the council need to be clear about boundaries and expectations.
“There has been a lack of accountability recently which has led to a removal of community support.”
He also wants to focus on reducing costs “that have ballooned beyond our need”, including acting with “urgency to reduce and remove our reliance on contractors”.
Founder and chair of the Mana Tahuna Charitable Trust, which was born from the Covid-19 response and is now leading the restoration of Waiwhakaata Lake Hayes, Rewi is also owner of local cultural support company Take Tuia, and vice chair of the National board of Victim Support.
He’s a ministerial appointee on the board of Herenga ā Nuku Aotearoa, the Outdoor Access Commission, and the mandated Ngāi Tahu ki Murihiku representative on the ORC Upper Lakes Freshwater Catchment Working Group.
And he’s also a trustee of the Sky City Queenstown Community Foundation, vice chair of the recent Arts Culture and Heritage Strategy Committee and was the Mayoral Appointee as Chair of the Welcoming Communities Steering Group.
As well as his governance roles, he’s also been involved in the Scouts, junior and senior football, and supporting health in schools, as well as nine years as a volunteer fire fighter.
“In the 32 years my family and I have lived here, we have developed a love for this area,” Rewi, originally from Invercargill, says.
“The district has nurtured and supported us and in return I have always given time and service back to the community and been an advocate and voice for many groups and communities.”
Despite the perceived failings of the current council, Rewi says there’s no point creating reviews and investigations.
“It’s obvious that there has been poor decision making and now it’s for the new council and Mayor to create an expectation of accountability and that’s a conversation with the CEO. We need to look forward and get moving,” he says.
That includes the incoming Regional Deals, which will reshape how the council works with Central Government, which he says comes with opportunities but also “significant Central Government expectations”.
“That’s where leadership is key. The QLDC voters need to consider Leadership, Governance and Engagement when they choose their mayor and councillors.”
What a spot! Engagement ring find delights local bride
by Sue Fea
A couple of good blokes are being hailed as heroes by a delighted local bride to be – one of them her fiancé, after her precious engagement ring was miraculously located under ice on top of the Crown Range.
Remarkables Primary teacher Abby Cavanagh, who moved to Queenstown from Auckland earlier this year with fiancé of four years Dan Weafer, noticed her engagement ring missing on 29 June. She’d been walking the Kelvin Heights Track during the weekend, but a search there and post on the Queenstown Community page turned up no leads.
“I retraced my steps, and we searched everywhere, tipping the bedroom upside down,” Abby, whose mum is Queenstown Primary School principal Fiona Cavanagh, says.
She’d all but given up hope, however, Dan, who was facing forking out another several thousand dollars for a new ring and wanted the saga to end, started checking videos he’d taken of Abby playing in the snow on top of the Crown Range the day before it was noticed missing. “He just had a feeling he should check the videos,” she says.
Incredibly, Dan spotted the ring flying through the air in a video of Abby shaking snow off her freezing hands after a fun snow fight.
A builder, he rang Abby from work on Thursday night, 10 July, and knocked off early so they could go up and search.
“We looked for an hour and a half. I was way too cold, and it was getting dark.” She posted on the community page asking for a metal detector and was overwhelmed by the kindness and response, about half a dozen detectors offered straight away, one from as far away as Wānaka.
One offer took the prize – Arrowtown man Ryan Domenico de Dominicis, who was keen to try out his new metal detector, not only offered to help but insisted on heading up there well after dark on Thursday night rather than
waiting until the next day as Abby suggested. “We’d only just got home, and Dan went back up to help him. By the time he got there Ryan had already found the ring. He was frothing, so keen to help,” a very grateful Abby says.
“Miraculously, it wasn’t damaged or scratched at all and had been sitting there untouched for 11 days,” she says. “The snow it fell in had melted to the ground and it was just sitting in a puddle under a piece of ice!
“I’d been throwing snow up into the air and I’ve lost weight lately, so it must’ve flung off while I was shaking my hands out in front of me.”
“I was just overwhelmingly grateful. I had tears in my eyes and was jumping up and down, so happy.” She’d offered a cash reward which Ryan didn’t want to take but the couple insisted, giving him $100.
Abby says she’s hugely grateful to all of those who offered to help and was blown away by all of those like Ryan offering to go out of their way to help.
“This is such an amazing community. People really look after each other,” she says. “I broke down on the Kelvin Heights Road several months ago and three vehicles stopped to help me within 10 minutes.”
To top off the tale Ryan just happens to be a wedding photographer, so guess who’s first in line to take the wedding photos next year? And yes, Abby reckons they’d better choose the top of the Crown Range as the photo location.
“I think this is a sign. It’s prompted us to finally get married. We always planned to get married when we moved to Queenstown, so this has given us a bit of a kick along,” Abby says, adding that they will be “very careful with the rings”! They’re hoping to set a date for autumn next year.
With school starting back on Monday Abby’s likely to be top holiday news with her Year 1 class and in the Remarkables School staffroom.
Monday to Friday 7:30-5:30pm Level 1, 30 Grant Road, Five Mile Shopping Centre www.curiousminds.co.nz qt-manager@curiousminds.co.nz | 03 974 4650 Find us on Facebook
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CRIMELINE
Australian couple set upon taxi driver
by Sue Fea
A local taxi driver was allegedly set upon by an Australian couple without any apparent motive, allegedly hit in the face by the woman and pushed up against his vehicle by the man in Memorial Street just after 8.15pm on Sunday, 6 July.
Sergeant Tracy Haggart says the woman in the front passenger seat allegedly struck the taxi driver in the face for no reason with the back of her hand. He stopped the car, and they all got out of the vehicle when her partner grabbed the driver’s phone, throwing it on the ground, stomping on it and smashing it.
“He then allegedly pushed the driver up against the vehicle,” Haggart says. When Police arrived, the driver was on his phone and the Australian pair had walked away.
A 33-year-old Australian man will face charges of assault and wilful damage in the Queenstown District Court on Monday, 14 July, while a 38-year-old Australian woman will face a charge of assault.
Thief tailgates into underground car park on a BMX
A 35-year-old Tauranga man allegedly stole a car from a private underground car park with secure roller doors in Cow Lane after tailgating his way in on a BMX bike behind another vehicle overnight last Thursday night, 3 July.
Haggart says the man was allegedly captured on CCTV and then his description was matched to four shoplifting offences from three local stores, also through CCTV footage, around the same time in which more than $800 worth of goods was stolen.
Sunglasses and perfume worth $357 were stolen from Life Wilkinson’s Pharmacy, possible silicon or glue, likely concealed, a Bunnings bag and staff apron from Bunnings, and food on two occasions from Four Square Queenstown.
Haggart says the car had been reported stolen sometime between 9pm on 3 July and 7.48am on 4 July.
The alleged offender was found and arrested on Brecon Street-Cemetery Road at 11am on Tuesday, 8 July. He was charged with unlawfully taking a motor vehicle, four charges of shop theft and failing to provide details to Police. He will appear in the Queenstown District Court on 9 July.
Trespassed for freedom camping
A 48-year-old Dunedin was arrested for trespass near the Oxenbridge Tunnel at Arthur’s Point at 10am on Friday, 4 July, after apparently previously being trespassed by DOC, likely for freedom camping. Haggart says it’s likely there was some sort of confrontation with the public and Police were called. The man will face a charge of trespass in court on Tuesday, 15 July.
Drink driving
A 51-year-old Wanaka man allegedly blew 1391mcg on Friday, 4 July. He had his licence suspended for 28 days and will appear in the Queenstown court on 18 July.
A 20-year-old Oxford man allegedly blew 597mcg after rolling his car in a traffic accident on Frankton Road just after 4am last Wednesday, 2 July. Haggart says the vehicle allegedly veered off the side of the road before rolling. The man will face a charge of drink driving and one of careless driving in court on 28 July.
A 20-year-old Queenstown man, 739mcg at 3.45am, Thursday, 5 July, Howards Drive, Lake Hayes Estate. Court 18 July.
Great Walks boost
The rush to claim spots in huts on New Zealand’s Great Walks saw 140,000 bed-nights booked on the days bookings opened. That’s 10,000 more bed-nights than last year, netting more than $9 million for the Department of Conservation. Booking for the huts on the nine Great Walks opened on different days in May.
So far, 20,910 people have booked beds in huts on the Routeburn near Queenstown, including 6,674 overseas visitors. Some 23,094 people are booked to stay in huts on the Kepler Track, including 6,336 overseas visitors, while 21,903 are booked on the Milford Track, including 8,537 visitors.
Greenstone Hut, serving the Greenstone and Caples Tracks, remains among the 10 most popular, along with McKellar Hut on the Greenstone, and Aspiring hut in Mount Aspiring National Park.
Conservation-related tourism is worth around $3.4 billion a year. In 2024 nearly three-quarters of international visitors said they did a hike, walk or tramp while in Aotearoa New Zealand, and around half visited a National Park.
“This is great for local businesses, local jobs and incomes,” Conservation Minister Tama Potaka says. “Before and after their walk they stay, eat and adventure locally, injecting money into local economies.”
Shotover court push
Queenstown Lakes District Council’s controversial wastewater consent will go directly to the Environment Court for a hearing and decision.
The council has applied for retrospective consent to discharge treated effluent into the Shotover River, which flows into the Kawarau River, following the debris field failing at the Shotover Wastewater Treatment Plant. It used emergency powers to begin pumping at least 12,000 cubic metres of treated sewage into the Shotover River per day, back in late March. Now, Otago Regional Council has approved QLDC’s request that the consents are handled by the Environment Court, rather than ORC. ORC’s Consents manager Alexandra King says the applications will still be publicly notified, which was a factor in the decision.
“It’s a pragmatic decision and this approach ensures security of the public notification process and the opportunity for public participation is based on having complete and accurate information, and is consistent with the requirements of the RMA,” she says.
QLDC made the application on the basis it would save considerable time and money, and had ORC handled the case, either result was “very likely to be appealed irrespective of the outcome”, in the Environment Court. There’s no court date as yet, but ORC has requested more information from QLDC by 11 August.
Introducing one of our new dentists at Remarkables Dental
Dr Alejandra Sanchez
Alejandra (Ale) graduated as a dentist in Colombia in 2012 and spent five years working in the public sector, gaining solid experience in general dentistry and community care. Her adventurous nature brought her to New Zealand in 2017, where she quickly fell in love with the lifestyle and natural beauty.
Ale is fluent in both Spanish and English, and enjoys connecting with patients from all walks of life. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring New Zealand’s landscapes, hiking, travelling, cooking, and spending time with friends.
Ale is excited to start seeing patients at Remarkables Dental!
She starts with us on 11th July and will be working Fridays and Saturdays.
Our experienced hygienists also have appointments available Monday – Saturday. on
Give us a call on 03 442 3531 or book online with Dr Alejandra Sanchez at www.remarkablesdental.co.nz
City to town, Ski fields, Mt Cook, Tekapo, Milford Sound Day tours or transfers - same day or overnights Call 021 568 146 - available anytime
QUEENSTOWN DHARMA CENTRE, 12 LAKE ST
TUE (15 Jul) @ 6.30pm, ‘Nurturing Peace’ with Grant Rix SUN (20 Jul) @ 10am, ‘Cultivating Awareness Practice’ followed by ‘Social Sunday’
All are welcome.
Donations for the teacher/centre are gratefully accepted. See www.dharmacentre.org.nz / FB
Milford Track. Photo: Mac Gaither
The treated wastewater discharging along a channel into the Shotover River
COMMUNITY NOTES
WAI Wānaka building a community of freshwater champions
July marks the global movement of Plastic Free July, encouraging individuals to be part of the solution to plastic pollution and refuse single-use plastic items for the entire month (and beyond). Why? So we can have cleaner lakes, rivers, oceans, and communities.
Plastics, especially microplastics, are literally everywhere. They are in the clothes we wear, the food we eat, the vessels we eat and drink from, they are in the lakes and rivers; thus, they are inside our bodies also. We’re fortunate to have an abundance of people here who care about our environment. Local community organisation, WAI Wānaka have a simple but ambitious purpose: to protect and restore the health of freshwater for generations to come. They believe everyone has a role to play in protecting our freshwater, and they’re here to help bring people together to do just that.
A Teeny Tiny Truth: Microplastics in our waterways
After students from Mt Aspiring College found significant quantities of small plastic fragments around the Wānaka lakefront, a question was sparked: if we’re finding these plastic fragments on the lakefront, what’s in the water and where are they coming from?
WAI Wānaka saw this as an opportunity to bring freshwater scientists together with the community to investigate further. They connected with Veronia Rotman (marine scientist, current doctoral candidate, and science communicator with a background in microplastics research) to create “A Teeny Tiny Truth,” a research project that investigates microplastics in our fresh water, while empowering our community to participate and drive change.
If you’d like to learn more, head to waiwanaka.nz/actions/a-teeny-tiny-truth/
Citizen science: join the research revolution
Citizen science is everyday people (aka volunteers) getting involved in scientific research projects. It bridges the gap between scientists and the general public, empowering individuals to contribute to data collection, analysis, and reporting. By engaging in citizen science, communities can help monitor local ecosystems and drive evidence-based action.
WAI Wānaka are passionate about involving our community in citizen science, especially when it comes to freshwater research. They have a few different ways you can get involved and make a difference; by attending a Get Your Feet Wet event where you will learn how to monitor key indicators of stream health, joining a beach clean-up, collecting water samples and testing them for microplastics, or heading out on the water for a Secchi Disk trip.
Ultimately, WAI Wānaka are working to build a community of freshwater champions – people who are not only informed, but also equipped and motivated to make choices that lead to healthier waterways.
To stay in the loop with WAI Wānaka, sign up to their newsletter, follow them on socials or keep an eye on their volunteer events page on their website www.waiwanaka.nz
A Teeny Tiny Truth, Veronia Rothman and Jay
Lake front clean-up, 23 October 2024
Jose on an outing with local preschool
Local kids helping out at Earth Day beach clean up Lake Wānaka
Acupuncture
Tourism industry’s $100k for environmental projects
An initiative aimed at enabling the tourism industry to make a positive contribution to the local environment has $100,000 to dish out.
Love Queenstown and Love Wānaka were the first organisations to come to life from the region’s Destination Management Plan: Travel to a Thriving Future, which also set the Carbon Zero 2030 target.
They collect contributions and volunteer hours from visitors, tourism operators, and local businesses, with the funds allocated to organisations via contestable grants.
Since 2023, the organisations have brought industry volunteers together to plant 6,500 native trees, invested over $32,500 in endowment funds, connected numerous visitors to volunteer opportunities, and promoted sustainable travel information.
This year, they’ve raised a record $100,000 across the Queenstown Lakes region. These funds will directly support charitable organisations delivering frontline climate, conservation, and biodiversity projects in the region.
Eligible organisations can now apply for grants ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. Applications for the 2025 Impact Grants are open from 8 July – 6 August.
“These grants are about empowering the incredible organisations already working so hard to protect our rohe (region),” Ash Bickley, Community Fund Coordinator, says.
“The ongoing support from the visitor industry has been inspiring, showing a real commitment to not just sustaining, but regenerating, the places we love.” Past recipients include the Whakatipu Reforestation Trust, Whakatipu Wildlife Trust, Tāhuna Glenorchy Dark Skies Group, Te Kākano Aotearoa, Predator Free Wānaka (formerly Wānaka Backyard Trapping), WAI Wānaka, and the Upper Clutha Wilding Tree Group.
“This is about building a regenerative future for our region,” Mat Woods, CEO of Destination Queenstown and Lake Wānaka Tourism, says.
“These funds are a direct result of visitor and business generosity and are a unique example of how tourism can support real, on-the-ground environmental action.”
Sararose Brown, Operations Manager for the Whakatipu Reforestation Trust, says the collaborations are vital to their work.
“It allows us to bring local businesses and community members along with us, working toward a shared vision of making this place even better,” she says.
QUEENSTO WN HEALTH
The grants are delivered in partnership with Destination Queenstown, Lake Wānaka Tourism and the 45South Community Foundation (formerly Wakatipu Community Foundation).
More information, including full eligibility criteria and application details, is available at: www.loveqt.co.nz and www.lovewanaka.co.nz.
Love Queenstown industry planting day at Lake Hayes: Photo: Dave Oakley
GOINGS ON ABOUT
Winter Vibes, Pub Ride
Altrusa Quiz Night
COMMUNITY
This year, Altrusa are embracing the theme all things wonderful and weird! So, gather your brainiest friends, put on your most creative thinking caps, to join in for a night of fun, laughter, and friendly competition. Prepare for an exciting evening filled with 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes, best dressed team prize, fantastic raffles, and an auction with some incredible items up for grabs. To register your team (max six people) please send an email to: altrusaqueenstown@gmail.com – entry is $150 per team and all proceeds from the night will go to Active Hearts Foundation and local literacy projects. The bar will be open, and sandwiches, savouries and snacks will be provided.
When: Wednesday, 16 July, doors open at 6pm, quiz starts at 6.45pm Where: Wakatipu Rugby Club Rooms, Templeton Way, Queenstown
Men’s Performance Series
This winter, Remarkables Park Town Centre is inviting men from across the region to come together for something real. The Men’s Performance Series is a new lunchtime initiative that gives men the tools, insights, and support to show up and work on being their imperfect best. The launch event features talks from international rally driver Hayden Paddon and men’s health and wellbeing coach Samantha McBride. Head to Humanitix to grab tickets and read more about the event.
When: Wednesday, 16 July, 12pm – 2pm
Where: Remarkables Park Town Centre, 12 Hawthrone Drive, Queenstown
Cancer Society Pop-Ups
Cancer is tough – finding support shouldn’t be. Cancer Society and QLDC Libraries have partnered to make it easier for our community to access the help they need. A local Cancer Navigator will be available at Frankton Library on Tuesdays until the end of July. Whether you or someone you care about is affected by cancer, you’re welcome to drop in for a chat, ask questions or find out what support is available.
Grab your bike, layer up, and join in on a chilled cruise through some of the best pubs Queenstown has to offer. It’s all about good vibes, cold pints, and great company – pubs over podiums, every time. No racing, no pressure, just a fun ride on two wheels. Come for the cruise, stay for the brews! Kicking things off at Canyon, heading over to Searchlight, then off to Atlas, and last but not least, finishing up at Altitude, where Smoke and Pickle and Grub Club have your dinner needs sorted. You will need to have the fitness to pedal just over 12 km, but there will be great deals at each stop along the way to keep everyone motivated!
When: Saturday, 19 July, 12pm – 8pm
Where: Meet at Canyon Brewing, 1 Arthurs Point Road, Queenstown
Merrell Spring Challenge
Raft, bike, hike in a team of three at Merrell Spring Challenge – New Zealand’s premier all-women adventure race. Entries are now open for the event, which takes place in stunning Glenorchy in September. The three-hour, six-hour or nine-hour races offer an unforgettable experience of teamwork, nature, and personal achievement. With mountain biking, hiking and rafting through breathtaking wilderness, this is more than a race, it’s a reason to say yes to adventure. If you live locally (within 100km of Queenstown), you can win a free team entry – drop by the Let’s Get Outside Merrell Store at 11 Mall Street before 31 July to enter. Head to www.springchallenge.co.nz for more information.
When: Friday, 19 – Sunday, 21 September
Where: Glenorchy
Night Ski Party ft Peking Duk
SPORT
Skycity Stampede NZIHL – Ice Hockey
Are you enjoying another season of action-packed ice hockey? SkyCity Stampede are defending their NZIHL Champions title. Don’t miss your chance to see some of the mostly highly anticipated ice hockey games in the country - you can’t say you visited Queenstown if you didn’t see the SkyCity Stampede hit the ice! It’s always an epic showdown when the NZIHL comes to the barn – get your tickets and season passes online – dress code is yellow and blue.
When: Friday, 18 and Saturday, 19 July, 7pm – 9pm Where: Queenstown Ice Arena, 29 Park Street, Queenstown
You’re invited to the biggest Night Ski Party of the season, headlined by Aussie legends Peking Duk – live and loud at Coronet Peak! Get ready for an unforgettable night under the lights as we combine skiing, snowboarding, and serious dancefloor energy with hits like Stranger, Take Me Over, and Say My Name blasting across the mountain. From carving after dark to dancing on the deck, this is the ultimate alpine party. Entry is free, and everyone’s welcome to join the festivities. Want to ski or ride? Just grab a Night Ski Pass, Superpass, or 3 Peak Season Pass. So rally your crew, layer up, and get yourself slopeside for a night you won’t forget.
When: Wednesday, 23 July, 4pm – 9pm
Where: Coronet Peak Ski Area, Queenstown
Central Otago Whine Tour - Ladies Comedy Night
Holy Girl Power have we got a show for you! After sell out tours in 2023 and 2024, the Central Otago Whine Tour - all-female comedy extravaganza is back and they could not be more excited! Headlined by Harriet Moir, hosted by Queenstown favourite Maggie Rogers and featuring some of Te Waipounamu’s funniest women; Nicola Brown, Kelly Hocking, Caitlin Owen and Molly Force, this show promises to be a night to remember. Oh, and just because the lineup is all women, doesn’t mean the audience has to be! R18. Tickets only $30, www.trybooking.com/nz/XTL
When: Saturday, 2 August, 6pm and 8pm shows
Where: Sherwood, 544 Frankton Road, Queenstown
RISING STAR CREDI
Next-level training, wrap around support, one-onone mentoring and a culture of genuine teamwork has paid o multiple times over for Harcourts Queenstown agent Maria Rosa.
Since joining the team 18 months ago, two of her sales have broken suburb records. One was her first ever sale -- a $2.1million 4-bed home and 2-bed flat in Shotover Country. She also achieved a record sale at the time for a unit title in Frankton which sold for $1.21million, and just recently she won the national Harcourts Novice Auctioneer title, the first woman in over 20 years to win it.
TS HARCOURTS
TRAINING FORSuccess
While she’s a natural ‘people person’ who excels at connecting with individuals from all walks of life, she credits ongoing Harcourts’ training, upskilling and support for giving her the confidence and technical skillset to push her business into overdrive.
“I feel really valued here,” she says.
“A er you’ve done your real estate papers there’s still so much to learn, and Harcourts puts a lot of time into its new agents.”
She completed her three-day Sales The Harcourts Way course which taught her all the practical skills required to be an agent, such as how to do an appraisal, get a listing, and talk to a buyer, and values the 30, 60 and 90-day follow ups.
Maria benefited from the guidance of experienced and successful Queenstown agents Kate Law and Megan Osborne who talked her through every aspect of the business and o ered support and advice, and is also mentored weekly by branch manager Priscilla Uhrle.
The icing on the cake recently came for Maria when she mentioned she was keen to look into auctioneer training. “Every single thing I bring to them they support me,” she says. Originally from South London with Jamaican and Italian heritage, Maria and her boyfriend (now fiancé) travelled from London to New Zealand to start their new life when she was just 20.
Raised on a council estate by a single Mum who taught her the importance of grit, self-belief and a strong support system, she has to pinch herself a little as she talks about record sales and buying her first home.
“Kate and Megan made me a better agent and with Priscilla I have an invaluable hour each week when I can openly talk about maximising opportunities in the market, the best strategy to ensure a successful result for my sellers and how I can help my buyers achieve their property ownership goals.”
“It’s a completely di erent world from the life I knew growing up, on an estate in Croydon. I’m incredibly grateful to be living a life I once only dreamed about, thanks to the guidance, training, and support I’ve received at Harcourts.
“Every Thursday in our meetings we also have regular group training where we hear from bank managers, building inspectors, accountants, lawyers and other specialist advisers.”
“Now I’ve got a really good business with earnings that have quadrupled in the past 18 months, most of my income is repeat business and I couldn’t have done that without Harcourts and their support.”
Reflecting on real estate sales as a career, she says “It’s given me a life filled with possibilities I never imagined growing up.”
As if she wasn’t busy enough, she also educates the market through her podcast Queenstown Property Chats.
Are you ready to make a career change?
Picture: Maria being named Most Promising Auctioneer of the Year at the Harcourts New Zealand 2025 Awards.
HOSPO GUIDE
Tuesday Live music with Eby 6pm $15 Bao Buns
music with TJ 5pm DJ Rinkha 8pm $15 Chef’s Special
Live music with TERE 4pm DJ Eoin 7pm $15 Chef’s Special
Live music with NIC $15 Fried Rice
Lunch Special: $28 BBQ meat platter, dine in or takeaway, Fri, Sat and Sun only 12pm to 5pm
Latin Night with DJ Hector & $18 Cocktails
Open Decks
Doubkle Points & DJ Mad
Happy Hour 5-7pm $12 cocktails/ $10 Pints / Mulled Wine/ OPEN FIRE
Sesh with DJ Mad
Apres Monday with Je Marco
Free Wings (while stocks last) DJ Rinkha 8pm til late
/ Tuesday Karaoke 8pm
Stampede vs Phoenix Dunedin Thunder, Puck Drops 7pm
COCKTAIL HAPPY HOUR 9pm - midnight DAILY 3 - 5PM $30 HAPPY HOUR FOOD COMBOS TAP BEERS 5 DRAFT BEERS TO CHOOSE FROM DAILY 3 - 5PM $10 BEERS $10 WINES $14 COCKTAILS LATE NIGHT EVERYDAY UNTIL MIDNIGHT ASIAN FUSION
Mon & Tue TACOS JAGUAR, Authentic Mexican food, open from 1pm Wednesday Darts & Beers, Social Games Night 6pm - free entry
Wed, Fri & Sat TACOS JAGUAR, Authentic Mexican food, open from 1pm
OPEN MIC 6.30-9.45pm, Every Friday, Elle & Alex Music
Comedy 7pm by Dr. Jonathan Falconer: The Science of Getting 2 High
ALL take away beer 1.25L Riggers $20 Everyday QMTBC membership beer handles
BIG DAWG DAY HALF OFF BIG DAWGS UNTIL 9pm
BURGER DEAL $2 OFF ANY BURGER 12pm - 5pm
GRZLY from 9pm $25 Special BBQ Ribs
BREWDAY $5 OFF SELECTED JUGS 12pm - 5pm
GRZLY & friends from 9pm
Daily $20 Lunch Special Famous Sunday Roast $30 limited availability, booking essential! Quote ROASTS Also serving Lamb Shanks, Blue Cod and other delicious southern classics
Everyday 8am - 9am Coffee Happy Hour 50% off when you byo keep cup
Tuesday Pub quiz 7pm Sydney FC v Wrexham 8:30pm
Wednesday Chicken or Eggplant Parmy, chips, & salad | $25 From 12pm Karaoke | 9.30pm
Thursday Any burger & chips | $22 From 12pm
Tuesday to Saturday Happy Hour 3-5pm
Friday Live music 8.30pm
1. Triskadeccaphobia is the fear of what?
2. What is a baby rabbit called?
3. Which country had The Dauphin as a ruler?
4. What do iIctheologists study?
5. Who or what lives in a formicarium?
6. What type of acid is used in car batteries?
7. What’s a group of owls called?
8. What animal would you find in a form?
9. Who in books and films was the man of bronze? 10. What kind of food is Cullan Skink?
11. What is classified by the A B O system?
12. What plant does the Colorado beetle attack?
13. In which city was the famous black hole? 14. What did Christopher Cockerel invent?
15. Ray Bolger played who in The Wizard of Oz? 16. Sabotage is French - What did the saboteurs use?
17. Which part of the human body contains the most gold?
18. If you had rubella what would you have caught?
19. Mohs scale hardest substance is diamond - what’s the softest?
Saturday Phoenix v Wrexham | 4pm All Blacks v France | 7.05pm Wallabies v British & Irish Lions | 9:45pm
Saturday The Superjesus doors 9pm
Sunday Live music 2pm
Sunday roast $28 | From 12pm Warriors v Newcastle Knights | 6:05pm
Know someone with vision, drive, and community spirit - or is that you? Stand for QLDC Mayor, Councillor, or Community Board today. Nominations are open until midday 1 August 2025. Learn more at www.qldc.govt.nz/elections
Thinking of standing for Council?
Come to a free info session on Thursday 17 July, 6.00pm at Council Chambers, 10 Gorge Road, Queenstown. Learn what being an elected member involves, including responsibilities, time commitments, and how to get nominated. More info www.qldc.govt.nz/your-council/elections
Share your thoughts on freedom camping
We’re taking feedback on a draft Freedom Camping Bylaw 2025 which proposes a range of measures to manage responsible camping spaces to protect our places. These include prohibiting freedom camping on most roads in the district’s built-up urban areas, and allowing freedom camping with restrictions in 158 carparking spaces across 15 specified areas in the district. More at https://letstalk.qldc.govt.nz
Dog registrations are out now
Dog registrations have gone out to all pooch parents this month. You can pay online at www.qldc.govt.nz/do-it-online/make-a-payment
Ante-natal classes at QEC
You & Me – an ante-natal fitness programme –is on once again at Queenstown Events Centre. Keeping active during pregnancy is important for you and your future child! Numbers are limited so sign up at www.qldc.govt.nz/youandme
New to the district?
We’ve created a Newcomers Guide to help you settle into life here. To read the guide head to www.qldc.govt.nz/newcomers-guide
Plastic Free July
Get involved in the Plastic Free July Challenge! Try starting with small changes like using a reusable cup, avoiding prepacked produce, or shopping at bulk stores. More ideas at www.wastebusters.co.nz/plastic-free-july
Growing well south of the Kawarau
Feedback on our draft Structure Plan for Te Tapuae Southern Corridor – the land around Hanley’s Farm and Jack’s Point - closes this Sunday! This is a 30-year roadmap to guide how the area grows — from where homes, shops, and parks go, to how people get around and where key services are placed and staged. Make sure you have your say on the plan now at https://letstalk.qldc.govt.nz
New director for Te Atamira
Following a six-month search across Aotearoa New Zealand and overseas, Queenstown’s cultural centre Te Atamira has a new director.
Ruth Heath, who’s currently Executive Director of the Southern Lakes Arts Festival Trust, home to the Wānaka Festival of Colour and Aspiring Conversations, joins Te Atamira, from Monday 4 August.
Te Atamira Board Co-Chair Kevin Bouchier says Heath brings a depth of experience in arts leadership, community engagement, and festival presentation.
She has worked across Te Waipounamu South Island in roles spanning creative direction, producing, governance, community development, education, and events. Her cross-sector experience is grounded in a strong belief in the transformative power of the arts to connect, uplift, and strengthen communities.
“Ruth’s strong commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, tikanga, and manaakitanga - principles that sit at the heart of Te Atamira’s values - particularly resonated with us,” Bouchier says.
“On behalf of the Board and team, we are excited for what lies ahead under Ruth’s leadership and invite our community, artists, partners and friends to join us in extending a warm welcome and our full support.”
The multi-purpose, community arts and cultural centre, in Frankton’s Remarkables Park, opened back in May 2022, and has established itself as one of the region’s creative hubs, supporting a diverse programme of exhibitions, workshops, performances, and events for all ages across its 22 spaces.
Heath is part of the inaugural cohort of Creative New Zealand’s New Leaders Programme, alongside 25 arts leaders from across Aotearoa, and is also a Board Member at Mount Aspiring College and business owner of The People’s Bread Co in Wānaka.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Canterbury and a Certificate in Creativity from The Learning Connexion – School of Creativity and Art, and lives in Wānaka with her husband Jeremy and their four children.
“I’m delighted to be joining a special team at a special place,” Heath says.
“Te Atamira is an exciting creative hub, and I look forward to working with artists, partners, and the people of the Whakatipu to continue the beautiful mahi Olivia and the team have begun - shaping a space that inspires, reflects and supports the rich arts and cultural life of this region, for all of the community.”
www.qldc.govt.nz
Ruth Heath, left, with outgoing director Olivia Egerton. Photo: David Oakley
Arts+Culture
The natural world, the elements and the creative process
by Jessica Allen
Te Atamira’s latest exhibition, Elemental, takes a look at the foundational forces – earth, water, fire and air – that shape our natural world and the creative process. It will run until September and features an array of Kiwi artists, interpreting these elements and incorporating them into their work.
The full list of featured artists is Rowan Giselle Holt, Niki Henipaiaro White, Ruby Wilkinson, Shannon Courtenay, Brigid Allan and Koko. They will engage in a dialogue with nature, responding with reverence, intuition, and a deep sense of reciprocal connection.
Courtenay is a ceramic artist based in the Cardrona Valley. She primarily works with hand-built and slip-casts, where she explores the quiet dialogue between natural landscapes and the act of making. Over the past few years she’s been moving toward slower and more intentional ways of making and living.
“It was actually Anthony Morris who first introduced me to ceramics,” Courtenay says. “I started working with him in his studio on the weekends while I was still studying at Elam. I was still painting and drawing as my main thing and it took a few years before clay crept into my degree properly. Elam was where I was introduced to mould-making and slip-casting though. I have been using that process ever since.”
She loves living in the Cardrona Valley and appreciates the movement and fresh energy that consistently passes through. Equally, she finds a lot of peace at her studio on Kind Farm Animal Sanctuary – think a herd of horses running beneath the snowy mountains. She describes the exhibition as thoughtful and grounded – first getting involved as she was selling her functional ware at the Te Atamira Shop.
“I was also involved in the Summer in the South | Raumati ki Tonga exhibition. I was honoured when Emma and Olivia asked me to be a part of Elemental, seeing a connection between my work and the other artists.
“All the artists are engaging with nature in different ways, whether through material, form, or process. It creates this quiet conversation between the works. It feels spacious and honest.”
She hopes people take a moment to pause when they’re wandering around the exhibition, too.
“The pieces I’ve made are inspired by the stillness of rocks and ideas of balance, presence, and how we interact with the world around us. I’m learning to work more slowly and with more care, and I hope that energy comes through.”
Allan has a background in geology, fine arts, and education and is based in Wānaka. Her practice is spontaneous and responsive, embracing chance as a guiding force. She’s lived in many different places around Aotearoa, meeting
many precious people along the way, which has been fundamental to her as a person, an artist and a mother of two young adults. Beyond art, she also has a passion for climbing. While she has many different degrees, geology and art have crossed over a little.
“For me I think it is in the feeling, Geology took me to a world that has become the backbone to my practice. When I am in the wilderness, I feel the same as when I am painting,” Allan says. “Being in isolated wilderness is like nothing else. The connection between Geology, Science and Art is very deep for me. But more on an intuitive level.
“It determines how I operate as a person and respond when in the making of my work. I am not sure Geology specifically influences my work, but the residencies I have been on all orient themselves around wilderness areas. Here, my response to these experiences are culturally, historically and socially site specific. I have a real respect for the mountains as physical structures, being inside them walking and climbing are some of my favourite things to do, this also fuels my creativity.”
Allan first got involved with the exhibition as she has been working as an Art Educator at Te Atamira. After taking a body of work to Director Olivia Egerton, the exhibition prep evolved and there was a need for another artist, and Allan’s work fit with the brief. She describes the evolution of her involvement as serendipitous.
“For my work, the aim was to enhance the formal element of text and meaning through the responsive, uncontained aspects of the cyanotypes. Again, it's helpful if you have time to read Koko's words in the works and let them settle.”
She describes the exhibition overall as quite powerful.
“This may be due to each artist having worked with the environment in some way to create their work, you can quietly sense the mauri of each work. There is this juxtaposed feeling of order and wildness.”
Coming up for Allan, she will take this collaborative body of work and a small series of paintings to an exhibition at Lizzie Carruthers Art Studio in Wānaka in mid-September – the works are being published as a book of poetry, Slackin the Jaw by Koko. And for Courtaney, she’s recently teamed up with Sofi Restaurant in Wānaka for a long-term collaboration – the first result of this is a tagine that you can see in use now, from kitchen to table. Both artists want to extend a huge thank you to Te Atamira for having a space to allow this type of work, and to everyone for coming out to support.
Elemental will run for free at Te Atamira until Wednesday, 3 September. It reminds us that making is, in itself, an act of alignment with these essential rhythms. For more information on each of the artists and the exhibition, head to teatamira.nz/events/elemental
Shannon Courtenay. Photo: David Oakley, @oakleybloke
Brigid Allan
by Sue Fea
My Life story
DIGS HARGREAVES
‘Dig’ that silver lining...
His distinctive, handcrafted silver jewellery has celebrated many a special occasion around the world – a creative gifting discovered in 1968 in desperation for money to get home from his OE.
Dig Hargreaves, now retired, was among the Whakatipu’s most renowned jewellers for almost 50 years – the perfect lifestyle for a man who loved skiing.
Born in England in 1948 to Kiwi parents – a dad who’d been a parachute instructor in the British Army during WWII, they moved back to New Zealand when Digs was 18 months. Unfortunately, his father moved back to England leaving his mum to bring up two little boys with help from Christchurch grandparents.
Digs’ mum then moved to Hanmer Springs where his grandfather was in a convalescent hospital after a major heart attack. Digs and his brother were sent to Cathedral Grammar boarding school in Christchurch, aged eight, enjoying wonderful outdoor freedom back in Hanmer in the holidays. “We’d disappear after breakfast and come home for dinner, and no one worried. It was a wonderful life.”
Digs was a school swim champion and star national shooter at 16.
They joined Amuri Skifield as foundation members, he and his brother becoming Canterbury champions. A Roy McKenzie scholarship saw them among six South Island skiers put up at the Southland Ski Club on Coronet Peak for a week’s race tuition.
They’d visit every holidays – a 13-hour drive over the unsealed Lindis Pass. “I fell in love with the place – snowcapped mountains and blue skies.”
He didn’t cut it at uni so headed to Western Australia as a surveyor in the gold mines, then pegging out leases for nickel mines in the late 60s.
But the ski craving overtook and on a Coronet Peak holiday a Canadian instructor convinced
him to sit his instructor’s exams in Banff. “It was my dream to travel overseas and be a ski bum, very few New Zealanders were doing that.
“I arrived with what I thought was a lot of money –several hundred pounds written in my passport. They laughed at me and only stamped me for two weeks,” Digs says.
“I was completely self-taught, no books even. I’d buy German magazines and steal the designs”
He was one of only about 40 of the 160 sitting the exam to pass. An American examiner invited him to instruct at Mount Snow in Vermont, instant visa provided. The ski school director had worked at Mount Ruapehu and loved Kiwis. “They loaned me money to get a flat. I went back there for three seasons.”
He also worked in a hotel while skiing in Switzerland, then in London a job offer came to instruct at Porter Heights in three weeks. “Unfortunately, my return air ticket had expired, and Mum wouldn’t loan me money.” He’d spent two summers in Spain running a waterski school and making leather bags at night. “It was the early 70s. They had big market days at Hyde Park, but every hippy and his dog were out selling leather gear.”
He tried making jewellery instead, borrowing a silver bracelet off his girlfriend to copy, his last £10 spent on silver wire.
A London jeweller selling the same bracelet for big money referred him to the Indian supplier, Digs quickly learning how to barter. “He took six and said make me 50 for tomorrow! I sat up
all night and, in the end, they took five minutes to make. I made thousands and had orders for hundreds.” Rings were requested, Digs pretending they’d be “very tricky to make”. “I soon had more than enough for my airfare, around $2000.”
He sold through a Christchurch jeweller around Australasia until silver took a huge fourfold price hike. Digs got stung on orders already priced, so set up on his own.
A Queenstown jade and jewellery store under Noah’s Hotel was gaining sales so the Christchurch jeweller opened a Queenstown shop in Eureka House, Digs working there before moving across the Mall to a tiny space on his own. “It was a gap between the Skyline building and a walkway, no windows. Rent was $30 a week and when it rained the roof leaked, which meant rent was cut to $15. I’d produce a bucket of water for proof,” he grins.
Digs then created a studio at his Malaghans Road home, selling from his Mall space before selling that to Rob Lynes and Gary Mullings. “I’d take my pieces in on a Friday, and they’d buy the lot. Once I made a beautiful blowfly brooch. I’d pinned it to the workbench when it was annoying me.”
He was regularly commissioned to make special pieces and only retired in 2021 due to bad arthritis. “I donated all my tools and equipment to Jess Winchcombe at her studio by the Honey Centre. She couldn’t believe her luck. She was so grateful.”
Digs, who’s also done a stint as a marriage celebrant, has passed on his skills to young people over the years, one Norwegian girl and a Kiwi in London, both now famous jewellery designers.
“I was completely self-taught, no books even. I’d buy German magazines and steal the designs,” he grins. “I loved doing what I did. It wasn’t work.”
Digs hard at work in his jewellery studio
Digs back in the mid to late 1970s Digs doing what he digs – skiing!
Digs making the rings for his daughter’s wedding - his final retirement piece
A 27-year-old Wānaka climber / snowboarder was airlifted to Southland Hospital after slipping backwards, falling over a steep cliff, dropping 20m then sliding another 30m into the Grand Couloir on the Remarkables.
Police say the man suffered a badly broken arm and possible head injury in the fall from the top of the popular shute, which starts between Single and Double Cone close to the summit of the Remarkables running down to Lake Alta.
Remarkables Ski Area ski patrollers assisted an Otago Southland Helicopter’s paramedic to get to the man, who was believed to have been crossing the Grand Traverse with a skier friend, after they activated a personal locator beacon, around 3pm last Monday, 1 July.
Police had the Wakatipu Alpine Cliff Rescue Team on standby due to the steep, tricky terrain but they were stood down, with the paramedic able to get to the man.
Cliff Rescue Team co-ordinator Russ Tilsley says he believes the paramedic was winched into a point 5m to 6m below the patient, climbing up then winching him out.
“I understand they’d come over the top of the GT (Grand Traverse) and stopped halfway to ski Grand Couloir, but conditions are patchy as is usual this early in the season,” Tilsley says.
“He’s probably slipped on ice, but he was a bit beaten up. I believe he may have also injured a rib.”
As it’s still early in the season the snow cover isn’t that great up high at present and it was likely quite icy, he says. People just need to be aware that they’re in mountainous terrain and cover can be patchy this early in the season.
A St John Ambulance spokesperson says they were notified at 3.12pm, dispatching two helicopters. The patient was assessed at the scene then airlifted to Southland Hospital in a moderate condition.
Black ice warning
Police are reiterating warnings to beware of black ice after a vehicle slid on black ice on the Kingston Road near Jack’s Point at 7am on last Friday, 4 July, careering across the highway and coming to rest against a fence. Thankfully, nobody was injured.
It’s one of a number of black ice accidents lately and Haggart says drivers are urged to drive to the conditions, slowing down if there’s a possibility of ice, or if it’s frosty or foggy, taking all corners cautiously.
“Expect loose grit, ice or black ice on the roads,” she says. In recent weeks there have been some very heavy frosts at their worst when people will be heading to work, with a few vehicles slipping and sliding on corners.
It’s a problem across the Central Lakes region with Road Policing Group Sergeant Bruce Martin also saying icy roads are “unforgiving, especially in the south”, which has some of the most intense winter conditions in the country. Police are urging drivers to make sure they’re well-rested, take regular breaks, and wear seatbelts. “If you want to look at the scenery, please pull over in a safe area or designated rest stop,” Martin says.
And, as always, they’re also warning about speed. Last Sunday, Police apprehended an 18-year-old woman who clocked 149kmh on State Highway 6 between Queensbury and Cromwell. She received a $630 fine and had her licence suspended for 28 days.
The Remarkables. Photo: David Maunsell
SUBARU LEGACY 2008 5 SPEED 80,000 kms on clock, mint as. Leaving country so need to sell quick, Looking for 2k or near offer. No mess around. Txt or ring 0273411020
CALLING ALL DREAMERS & DOERS - Misfits Workshop is a coworking community where ideas collide and innovation thrives. Put in the work and still make it to the slopes. Desks & more. Swing by for the grand tour, flat white on us. misfits.co.nz
For Sale Trades & Services Community
HEALING AOTEAROA - JOIN US in Queenstown, 23–24 Aug (12–4pm), for a 2-day Honohono Healing Wānanga. Learn Māori energy healing to restore balance of body, mind & spirit. $400. Limited spots. Book now: www.healingaotearoa.co.nz/workshop-tahi
GOT PROBLEM GOATS? FREE GOAT Control. Southern Lakes NZDA seeks properties with wild goats for the DOC National Goat Hunting Competition. Landowners go in the draw to win $2,500 in prizes. Hunters vetted & insured. info@southernlakesnzda.org.nz
NEWLY ESTABLISHED NOT-FOR-PROFIT BABYWEARING QUEENSTOWN is looking for baby carrier donations for the community baby carrier library we are building. Contact to arrange donation babywearingqueenstown@gmail.com and thank you for your support!
HELP QT COMMUNITY CATS RESCUE care for local stray and feral cats! Your support means food, shelter, and lifesaving vet care. Donate, foster, or volunteer today. Join us in making a difference for our feline friends! Find us on Facebook to begin!
WATCH REPAIRS NOW
For all your repairs, watches, clocks, batteries, key cutting & straps. Level One, Stratton House (Below Sky City), 24 Beach Street, Queenstown Mon - Fri, 9.30am till 5.30pm. Closed on Saturdays. Phone/ text: 027 217 0442
YOUNG PICASSOS AFTER SCHOOL ART CLASS TERM 3 ENROLLING NOW!
Join us as we EXPLORE THE LOST CITY OF ATLANTIS! A diverse set of art skills explored as we paint and sketch ancient ruins, treasure maps and draw unique underwater creatures of the lost city!! Fridays 3.30pm - 5pm TeAtamira - $261 Book Now/info CONTACT LISA DUNCAN BA Hons Dip Teachlisadspaintparty@gmail.com
QLDC Libraries
Librarian Profile
Kia Ora!
Lakes Weekly Bulletin and Queenstown Lakes Libraries are profiling our librarians. This month it’s Julia Morum, who is a Children’s Librarian at Queenstown Library @qldclibraries
Hi there, kia ora! My name is Julia Morum and I am the Children’s Librarian here at Queenstown Library. I first came to Queenstown to walk the Routeburn Track in 1991, and couldn’t believe a place as incredibly beautiful as this existed. I packed up my life up north and moved to a town of outdoor adventurers all dressed in polypro and tramping boots; mountain biking was just starting up... I was in heaven.
I worked in hospitality for many years, switching to gardening after having my boys with my partner Pete. Through volunteering at my sons’ school and my love of books and reading, I started working at the Queenstown Primary School as a school librarian. I had found my calling! During lockdown I gained a library Certificate in Services & Collections for Children & Teens, and my passion for libraries grew. From there I started at the Frankton Library as
Queenstown Lakes District Libraries
Recommendations:
What you are looking for is in the library – Aoyama Michiko
Sayuri Komachi is no ordinary librarian. Sensing exactly what someone is searching for in life, she provides just the book recommendation to help them find it.
Heartwarming and charming, perfect for anyone who has ever found themselves at an impasse in their life and in need of a little inspiration.
Beartown – Frederick Backman
A poignant, charming novel about a forgotten town fractured by scandal, and the amateur hockey team that might just change everything.
a children’s librarian assistant. It was great working with the team at Frankton, who were so encouraging and inspired me to apply for a different role, which led to my current position. Working in a supportive and friendly team, I now have what I consider my dream job. I get to order and recommend children’s books, run programmes for kids and do storytelling outreach to preschools, create fun displays, and interact with our wonderful local families, always offering a welcoming smile and a safe space to read and dream. So come and visit the team in Queenstown – we will help you find a book that is right for you! There is a book for every person, you just need to find that perfect match.
Open Throat – Henry Hoke
A queer and dangerously hungry mountain lion lives in the drought-devastated land under the Hollywood sign. Lonely and fascinated by humanity’s foibles, the lion spends their days protecting a nearby homeless encampment, observing hikers complain about their trauma, and, in quiet moments, grappling with the complexities of their gender identity, memories of a vicious father, and the indignities of sentience.
We Should All Be Feminists – Chimamanda Ngozi
Adichie
Offers an updated definition of feminism for the twentyfirst century, one rooted in inclusion and awareness.
Small Things Like These –Claire Keegan
During the weeks leading up to Christmas in 1985, Bill Furlong, an Irish coal and timber merchant, feels the past rising up to meet him - and encounters the complicit silences of a people controlled by the Church.
The Navigating FoxChristopher Rowe Quintus Shu’al, the world’s only navigating fox, is in disgrace after guiding an expedition to its doom, leaving no survivors. One year later, Quintus is offered the chance to redeem himself: he will need to lead a motley, fractious team - both human and animal - all the way to the gates of Hell.
Life on the Refrigerator Door – Alice Kuipers
Told exclusively through notes exchanged by Claire and her mother, Elizabeth, their story builds to an emotional crescendo when Elizabeth is diagnosed with breast cancer. Stunningly sad but ultimately uplifting.
An Elderly Lady Is Up to No Good – Helene Tursten Maud is an irascible 88-yearold Swedish woman with no family, no friends, and... no qualms about a little murder.
The Forgotten Forest –Robert Vennell
Deep in the forest, in places you would never think to look, are some of the most remarkable creatures: a world of glow-in-the-dark mushrooms and giant mosses, where slime moulds travel the forest in search of prey and ancient lichens live for thousands of years.
Julia’s
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz jobfix.co.nz
Trustee Position (Volunteer)
The Queenstown Trails Trust is an energetic trust dedicated to creating and enhancing trails to connect our communities and inspire adventures. We are looking for two new trustees to join and compliment the experience and skill sets of the existing board of trustees and bring diversity.
We are seeking applicants with a true passion for the Queenstown Trail Network, and not for profit governance, who are willing to get stuck in, bring fresh ideas, and connect with our community.
A copy of the Trust’s strategy is available online at www.queenstowntrails.org.nz and at Queenstown Lakes District Council reception, 10 Gorge Road, Queenstown.
Trustee board meetings are bimonthly; however Trustees are expected to assist the executive team regularly.
Please forward your resume to Mark.Williams@Queenstowntrails.org.nz or post to Queenstown Trails Trust, PO Box 91070, Whakatipu 9304, by 31 July 2025
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
jobfix.co.nz
We are seeking hospitality professionals who value a high-performing culture, flexible working arrangements, work-life balance and a caring work environment to join our team in the following roles:
• Room Attendant
• Kitchen Hand
Benefits and Rewards
• Starting rate $25.00/hour-$27.00/hour
• Flexible Work Options available
• Heavily Discounted Food and Beverage
• Well-being initiatives
• IHG Room Discounts at over 6,000 hotels worldwide!
When you're a part of IHG, you're more than your job title. And that's what we love – the individual talents, interests and dreams that make you who you are.
Please email your resume at manager@holidayinnqueenstown.co.nz
REQUIRED NOW!!!!!! Skilled and Unskilled Labourers Traffic Controllers
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
Both full & part-time positions available. Awesome job opportunity for someone that loves both horses & the outdoors.
• Must have experience with horses, able to saddle and ride horses, be hard-working, energetic with exceptional customer service.
• Current First Aid Certificate required OR the ability to obtain one.
• Prepared to work weekends.
• Fluent English required
Please send a CV to Lloyd.brown@xtra.co.nz
HANDYMAN
We are looking for a handyman to do our small projects and louvre installs. The ideal candidate would be a qualified builder, someone who can work unsupervised and has great attention to detail. Flexible hours. Email jo@bayshorebuilders.co.nz to apply
