How would you like to use and enjoy Widgeon Park in the future? That’s the question on the colourful Queenstown Lakes District Council flyer that dropped into my actual letter box this week. I’ll tell you how QLDC: exactly as it is now. Why? Because on 1 August my $4,664 council rates bill dropped into my inbox. Last year it was $4,122, the year before $3,474. That’s a whopping, unsustainable 34% increase over Mayor Glyn Lewers’ term, although that admittedly included an independent revaluation of homes in the district.
Widgeon Park, for those who don’t know, is basically a field and small woodland between the bottom of Lake Hayes Estate and the Kawarau River. It’s a nice bit of open space with a trail running through it, used by walkers, cyclists etc., connecting to the wonderful Twin Rivers Trail. Would it be nice to “enhance the biodiversity... with native planting”, add a picnic area including “BBQ, seating and shade structure”, new trails, a new car park and fencing? Yes, it would. But we can’t bloody afford it!
QLDC now has the highest net debt-to-total revenue ratio of all councils in NZ, a staggering 265%. Its revenue is $237.5 million and debt $629m. And yet it continues to spend like my wife on Temu. The picnic area alone at Widgeon Park will likely cost all my rates for the past three years. In fact, sending out the flyers probably cost a couple of grand alone.
Now it would be inaccurate, hyperbolic and a little childish for me to say families could one day sit on the new benches and watch bits of poo float past on the Kawarau River. The discharged wastewater from the Shotover Treatment Plan upstream is treated and only a tiny proportion of the total cubic flow, we’re told. But it highlights the reality - we need to spend so much fixing the infrastructure for the millions of tourists, we don’t have enough left for the luxury projects.
We do need a detailed review of all QLDC spending, especially on projects such as Lakeview, and we also need Central Government to properly put its hand in its pocket. This is not anti-National Party. Labour were just the same - its ‘match-funding but you pick up the budget blow out’ for streetscape and road-to-nowhere were disastrous. Yet, PM Christopher Luxon has just announced plans to charge international visitors $20-$40 to visit high volume sites like Milford Sound, raising $62m per year, and the $100 border levy now raises $230m per year.
Queenstown Lakes sees none of this directly, and there’s no GST-share, and there’s no local visitor levy happening any time soon. Just a vague growthorientated Regional Deal. What is Queenstown if not a high volume site? Luxon is happy enough to glad hand the Aussie PM around the town. Time to boost direct funding. Until then, QLDC needs to cut back on the luxuries. Paul Taylor, Lakes Weekly Bulletin
Remarkables School pupil Nova Keen met her hero, double Paralympian gold medallist Adam Hall, when she won gold at the Adaptive Snow Sports Festival at Cardrona recently. Full story p7.
Snow Machine’s Side Quests
Snow Machine is coming to town in September and it’s set to be bigger than ever. There’s a huge range of side events and parties open to everyone – no festival ticket required.
In past years the festival has been known for the on-mountain experience and big main arena, but this year they wanted to create something fun and vibrant to activate the CBD, giving support to local businesses and allowing locals experience the atmosphere without committing to the full festival if they’re unable to do so. Pick one event, or dive in for the whole week.
Promoters say this year’s side events are selling quicker than ever, so if you want to take advantage of the fun on offer right on our doorstep, snap up your tickets today. Some of the side events locals can choose from include:
BUNGY LAUNCH PARTY
Kick things off in true Queenstown style - live music, massive vibes, and our iconic bungy backdrop. All tickets include return bus transfer from town, so you don’t need to worry about transport! If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s also the option to add on a zipride, too. This one is selling fast with only a few tickets left, so get in quick!
Artists: Odd Mob, Boogs, Mell Hall
Price: Event only, $99pp, event and zipride, $139pp
When: Tuesday, 9 September, 4pm - 10pm
Where: AJ Hackett Bungy, Kawarau Bridge (18+ only)
CANYON KICK OFF – Presented by Celsius
Enjoy world-class acts at your fave local brewery – local craft brews, international DJs, and a killer mountain backdrop. Ticket includes return bus transfer from town.
Artists: HNTR (Canada), DJ Piero (AUS), Lenni Vibe (NZ)
Price: $39pp
When: Tuesday, 9 September, 4pm - 8pm
Where: Canyon Brewing, Arthurs Point (18+ only)
SNOW MACHINE STREET PARTY (Brand new for 2025)
The first-ever Rees Street street shutdown party in Queenstown! Festival organisers want locals to join in on the fun, which is why they’re putting this party on. Pop-up bars, cocktails, street food, and massive headline sets right in the heart of town! They’re onto the final release tickets now, which are expected to sell out soon, so get in quick!
Artists: What So Not, Hot Dub Time Machine, Slimberley Price: Final release tickets $89pp
When: Wednesday 10 September, 6pm - 10pm
Where: Rees Street (18+ only) - Full street closure
POWERBALL POLAR BARE (Back for its 4th year)
Be part of the most epic World Record Attempt! Ski or board down the mountain in swimwear and help break the world record for the biggest swimsuit run. This year will be bigger and better than ever, with backing from Powerball.
Price: $15 registration per person
When: Thursday, 11 September, 11am
Where: Remarkables Ski Resort, Queenstown
If you’re after a little more, Snow Machine are offering a locals festival discount for their festival pass – this does not include the side events. Acts include Claptone, Hot Dub Time Machine, Amyl and the Sniffers, Mallrat, Luude, Netsky, and Cyril, with events spread across the four on-mountain apres stages on The Remarkables and Coronet Peak, and the main arena in Remarkables Park.
Local Discount Code: LOCAL25
Locals prices
Go all in with the full four-day ticket: $399
VIP 4-day ticket: $698
Weekend Tickets (Friday + Saturday): $269
Day Tickets (Thursday, Friday or Saturday): $139
Trail plans progressing
Construction of a major new Queenstown trail could begin as soon as this summer, if funds can be raised.
The 4km off-road commuter trail would link neighbourhoods in the Southern Corridor, including Hanley’s Farm and Jack’s Point, to the Kawarau Falls bridge and the trail network beyond.
Queenstown Trails has submitted resource consent plans. The trail would run alongside SH6 from the bridge, crossing Peninsula Road and on towards Stone Cottage, where it would veer right, across private land skirting the lower slopes of Peninsula Hill.
Trails boss Mark ‘Willy’ Williams says it will cost about $1.5 million.
“We’ve got some funding from the Central Lakes Trust and had applied for more from the Great Rides fund, but unfortunately we learned a couple of days ago that hasn’t been successful.
by Paul Taylor
“So, we’ve got about half a million dollars we need to raise and are pursuing a few different avenues.”
Willy says the landowner has been brilliant.
“They’ve recognised the importance of it, because that road isn’t a safe place to cycle. It will provide a pretty well-used connection, so we’re keen to get it going.”
The Peninsula Road crossing still has to be designed, with
New Zealand Transport Agency considering traffic lights at the busy junction. Aussie tourists Nicole Ng and sisters Anna and Julie Wang inadvertently found themselves e-biking on the treacherous SH6 roadside, on the route the proposed trail, after taking a wrong turn at Kawarau Falls bridge on Sunday. They’d dismounted to cross Peninsula Road. “It was hard going,” Ng says. They said they’d be in favour of a proper trail, even though, on this occasion it would have meant they carried on in the wrong direction.
In other planning news, NZSki has applied for consent to partially cover the rear deck at The Remarkables base building, and also upgrade its maintenance building.
Community needs weekly water testing - QLCA
Queenstown Lakes Community Action leaders are frustrated testing has been scaled back around the controversial Shotover Wastewater Treatment Plant.
The group organised the protest in March over Queenstown Lakes District Council’s move to discharge more than 12,000 cubic metres of treated sewage per day into the Shotover and Kawarau rivers.
Since then Otago Regional Council has been conducting weekly tests at the plant and at sites both upstream and downstream.
But last week, ORC announced it will only take river samples and visit the plant once a month, although weekly testing will continue at one river spot on Kawarau River, near Chard Road.
“It is disappointing”, QLCA leader Nikki Macfarlane says, “particularly given some of their latest published results exceed consent requirements.”
Testing includes E. coli, nitrogen, suspended solids and biochemical oxygen demand.
Macfarlane says QLDC also promised weekly testing but only published results once a month, and hasn’t even done that since 5 June.
“Given that these tests are a snapshot in time, it is imperative for the community to see ongoing results weekly, as promised, to feel confident the discharge is safe and within consented limits.
“ORC test results were filling in some of the gaps but now we will no longer have these.”
ORC’s environmental delivery manager Joanna Gilroy says the decision was taken to cut costs, as appropriate monitoring is already in place.
Meanwhile, QLDC Infrastructure Operations Manager Simon Mason says “generally, the plant is performing well and in line with expectations”.
“With the colder weather, and as the plant works through the current upgrades, there has been some performance variability observed in a small number of recent results.
“We’re confident these are isolated events and with the new MLE reactor online in the very near future a step-change improvement in the quality of the treated water will soon be evident.”
QLDC and ORC are heading to the Environment Court over the failure of the plant’s dispersal field and other issues.
By Paul Taylor
Discharge from the plant on Sunday
Aussie tourists (from left) Anna Wang, Julie Wang and Nicole Ng e-biking on the proposed route
The proposed route
Insight Seminars – Gaining insight – NZ debut in Queenstown
“Insight is not about what you do. It’s how you are being.”
From learning the skills to navigate divorce and break-ups amicably and rekindling strained parental relationships, to busting out a new career path and building good business leaders, not for profit Insight Seminars hits Queenstown with fresh enlightenment this Labour Weekend.
The globally recognised organisation has been empowering people into self-enlightenment and personal development for almost 50 years and Insight Seminars New Zealand director, Cromwell-based Peruvian Nancy Roxburgh says it’s exciting to see the impact the programme has on people’s lives.
Roxburgh says her first seminar in Peru in 2012 was life changing for her in so many ways, particularly in managing pain through a psychosomatic condition, establishing empowering networks and healing family relationships.
“You gain a new perspective, which gives you back your power to become accountable instead of blaming others,” she says.
“Many people say things without thinking about the consequences or what they’re saying, then not keep their word, or maybe end up unintentionally hurting others,” Roxburgh says. “The seminar makes you aware of this. It’s completely up to the individual though how deep they want to go.”
Others may be keen to become more effective in their work or improve their career, and highly trained facilitators are on hand to teach at the seminars.
Participants take part in various exercises and recreate situations to bring about clarity and Roxburgh says people learn about “intention versus method”. “There’s not always only one way to go after what you want, and the seminars help people understand what it is they’re really after.”
The seminars are also helping in identifying your life purpose or future career path. “There’s powerful reasoning as to why you choose what you do,” she says. “We all have a choice.”
Others have been helped through everything from difficult workplace relationships to personal tragedy and grief.
“Our key principles include commitment to self, success through feedback – how to receive and identify feedback positively, and the benefits of giving and taking. If you’re constantly giving out and not good at receiving, or can’t say ‘no’, the seminar helps you to create safe boundaries.”
Roxburgh says participants become their “own life, relationship, or business coach” testifying to great benefits in their business, work, relationships and family.
“It’s all about personal development and self-improvement and there’s no pressure. People take the programme as far as they want.”
Insight Seminars NZ inaugural NZ seminar – Queenstown 24 – 27 October, at Te Atamira.
Led by American facilitator and consultant David Reynr Sessions also led by Lily Cubrilo, an executive coach from Australia
Further Information and to register scanning the QRcode.
See social media: @insightseminarsnz
Email: admin@insightseminars.com.au
Ph: 022 696 7820
CRIMELINE
Vicious assault
by Sue Fea
A 38-year-old Queenstown man, who had his takeaway food order cancelled after he discovered he’d lost his wallet, was charged with assault with intent to injure after later assaulting the 28-year-old male staff member just after midnight on Friday, 8 August.
“The man had ordered food in Queenstown Mall and when he discovered he’d lost his wallet and couldn’t pay the victim cancelled his order,” Sergeant Tracy Haggart says. “While the staff member was later sitting down on a break, the offending man approached him and kicked towards the victim’s head, hitting his hand which was holding his phone up to his ear, causing it to hit the victim’s head.”
The man pleaded guilty in the Queenstown Court on Monday, 11 August, was convicted and ordered to pay $1000 reparation.
Meanwhile, a 22-year-old Invercargill man, who took his shirt off in a bid to start a fight with an unknown man on Rees Street at 12.30am on Sunday, 10 August, was given a formal warning for disorderly behaviour likely to cause violence.
Ski area thefts
A pair of grey/blue Rossignol women’s skis and poles worth $1300 were taken from the rack outside the Remarkables Ski Area cafeteria sometime between 10.30am and 1.30pm on Friday, 8 August.
Oakley prescription glasses and Oakley Holbrook sunglasses were also taken from a table at Coronet Peak Ski Area at 1.30pm on Thursday, 7 August.
Police regularly warn skiers and snowboarders to keep an eye on their equipment and secure it whenever possible.
Drivers in the dock
An Australian tourist was fined $500 after he was clocked at 168kmh in his rental vehicle, three passengers on board.
The 34-year-old man was convicted of dangerous driving in the Queenstown District Court and disqualified from driving for six months, after being stopped in a 100khm zone on the Luggate - Tarras Road the week before last. Otago Lakes Road Policing Sergeant Bruce Martin says that speed was “just ridiculous” at any time, let alone in winter conditions when there’s grit on the road. Read more of this story on lwb.co.nz.
Meanwhile, a 29-year-old Auckland man, driving a rental car on a suspended driver’s licence was caught in Stewart Street, just after 5pm, 7 August. He as charged with driving while licence suspended or revoked, and will appear in North Shore District Court, on 4 September.
And a 20-year-old Queenstown woman was also driving while disqualified, on Frankton Road, 11.25pm, 10 August. She’s due in court on 5 September.
Three people were stopped for drink driving. A 27-year-old Queenstown man allegedly blew 565mcg when stopped at a Yewlett Crescent checkpoint on 8 August. The legal limit is 250mcg, while anyone over 400mcg goes to court. He’s due in court on 5 September. A 69-year-old local man, stopped at the same check point narrowly escaped a court date, blowing 396mcg. He was ticketed, as was a 34-year-old local man stopped in Lake Avenue, blowing 299mcg when breathalysed.
Always meet your heroes
Budding young Queenstown Paralympian Nova Keen, 11, may have been born short of a hand but that hasn’t stopped her from achieving gold in skiing, athletics and even swimming.
The gutsy Remarkables School pupil has already caught the attention of regional junior Parafed and Snow Sports NZ officials, who’re hoping she can join their programmes. She cleaned up again earlier this month with gold at the Adaptive Snow Sports Festival at Cardrona, overall winner in the Female Standing Ski Race. Nova’s won or placed second in every ski race she’s competed in this last couple of years. “I just go down hard and fast,” Nova, who’s been skiing since she was three, says.
Nova won all her athletics events at this year’s Halberg Games. She’s also just qualified for the Wakatipu Zone School Swimming Championships later this month. She will be competing against all able-bodied breaststrokers. “I just mostly use my legs for power,” she says.
But for Nova the greatest thrill came in meeting her heroes – double Paralympian gold medalist Adam Hall at the Adaptive Snow Sports Festival and 11 times gold medalist Dame Sophie Pascoe at a Chamber of Commerce lunch, both during the last fortnight. Nova received a special invite from Chamber chair Angela Spackman.
“It made me want to be a Paralympian even more,” Nova says. “They both encouraged me to do my best in what I love.”
While she loves all sport, Nova is an exceptionally fast runner and it’s athletics she’s chasing most – a top athletics coach in Dunedin already keen to work with her if she wants to in the future.
As for her greatest inspiration: “That’s probably Adam Hall and Anna Grimaldi,” she says. - By Sue Fea
Rhythm & Alps line up
Rudim3ntal, Santigold, and Dizzee Rascal are all confirmed for Rhythm and Alps. The Cardrona Valley festival returns for its 15th anniversary this December with its biggest event yet - featuring a stacked first lineup of international acts and homegrown faves. UK heavyweights Rudim3ntal, genre-defying powerhouse Santigold, and grime pioneer Dizzee Rascal are all on the bill, along with a big headliner yet to be announced. You can also expect epic sets from Badger, Chaos In The CBD, Catching Cairo, Corrella, Dombresky (Disco Dom), Fish56Octagon, Gentlemens Club, KANINE, Kurupt FM, Swimming Paul, and The Black Seeds. Beccie B, Dick Johnson, Fiona & The Glow, Halfqueen, Lady Shaka, Natty Lou, Nice Girl, Pages Layn, SUUNE, and Th’ Goodside are also performing.
Overnight closures
State Highway 6 through Kawarau Gorge will be closed overnight for eight weeks from 31 August as work is carried out to fix an under slip at Scrubby Corner. The site, just north of Goldfield Mining Centre, will be closed 9pm to 6am, Sunday to Thursday, through to 23 October. It will be opened on the hour during the closure periods to allowed queued traffic to pass. The road will be open at all other times, including day time and Fridays 6am to Sundays 9pm. Motorists should prepare for delays of up to an hour.
Nova with 11 times Paralympian gold medallist Dame Sophie Pascoe at a Chamber of Commerce event in Queenstown which Nova was invited to recently
Airport celebrates 90 years
Queenstown Airport celebrated its 90th birthday last week, making it one of New Zealand’s oldest commercial airports still operating on its original site.
The 1930s were a golden era for aviation and the people of the Whakatipu Basin were excited by the possibility of connecting with the rest of New Zealand and other parts of the world more easily than ever before. They identified the disused Frankton racecourse as the perfect location for an official aerodrome and began lobbying politicians and officials to make this happen. A landing ground licence was granted on 14 August 1935 and contractors were hired to level a grass airstrip.
From these humble beginnings, Queenstown Airport has evolved into an international gateway, world-renowned for its spectacular setting. It now welcomes more than 2.6 million passengers a year and has just started the largest infrastructure investment programme in its history.
“It is important to recognise milestones of this magnitude and to look back with gratitude for the foresight of those who laid the foundation for what we enjoy today,” Queenstown Airport Board Chair Simon Flood says.
“It is also an opportunity to take stock of our direction of travel to ensure Queenstown Airport remains a place our community takes pride in and our passengers love to travel through.
“Airports are important places, and we are proud of our long history and the deep connection we share with our community.”
Queenstown Airport Corporation will spend about $350m-$400m over the next five to six years, as it puts its 10-year master plan into place.
The plan includes a parallel taxiway, another aircraft parking stand, runway safety improvements, and the relocation of helicopter and fixed wing aircraft.
For all your repairs, watches, clocks, batteries, key cutting & straps.
Mon - Fri, 9.30am till 5.30pm. Closed on Saturdays. Phone/ text: 027 217 0442
Chief Operating Officer Todd Grace says it is a privilege to be responsible for developing infrastructure for the next generation.
“The next phase of our journey is really exciting for our team. We’re at the very beginning of a substantial programme of investment to enhance safety, resilience, sustainability, and customer experience.
“We’re grateful to everyone who has been part of our story so far, and we’re committed to ensuring Queenstown Airport is fit for the future, while retaining what makes it special.”
New CEO Shane O’Hare will take the reins next month, replacing outgoing chief executive Glen Sowry.
By the end of the 1960s, the main runway had been sealed and a flight services station established, enabling Hawker-Siddeley 748 flights. Photo: Archives New Zealand R24767905
The land on which Queenstown Airport was established was used as a racecourse from 1863 until about 1920 and the first hangar was built alongside the stone grandstand from which members of the Jockey Club once cheered on their favourite horses. These buildings can still be seen from Lucas Place today.
GOINGS ON ABOUT
EVENTS - MUSIC - ART
THEATRE - AT THE GALLERIES
Saturday Arts Social – Lino Printing with Emily Murnaghan
ARTS
Saturday Arts Social is a free multi-arts programme and morning tea for our 60+ community every Saturday morning, including concerts, art workshops, dance/movement classes and artist talks. Join Te Atamira for a relaxed and creative morning of lino printing with the talented Emily from Notions Creative. Whether you’re new to printmaking or haven’t touched lino since school days, this session is the perfect chance to reconnect with your creative side. Emily will gently guide you through the process of designing, carving, and printing your own artwork.
When: Saturday, 22 August, 10.30am – 12.30pm
Where: Te Atamira, 12 Hawthorne Drive, Frankton
Raranga Harakeke Beginners Flax
Weaving
Join Southern REAP for a hands-on six-week journey into the beautiful world of raranga harakeke – the traditional Māori art of flax weaving. Perfect for beginners, this course will guide you through the basics as you learn to create a range of small woven pieces, each with its own unique story. As you weave, you’ll also gain insight into the rich cultural traditions and history behind this ancient craft. Whether you’re keen to connect with Māori culture, learn a new skill, or simply unwind with something creative, this is a course full of meaning, learning and inspiration.
The largest snow season pride celebration in the southern hemisphere, held annually in Queenstown, New Zealand. Founded in 2003, Winter Pride has grown to become a vibrant and inclusive event that attracts participants from around the world!
When: Friday, 15 August – Sunday, 24 August
Where: Various locations around Queenstown
Blackout Poetry Workshop with B.G. Rogers
Words are everywhere... but what happens when we take them away? In celebration of National Poetry Day, join author and poet Bethany G. Rogers for a handson blackout poetry workshop, where redacting text becomes a powerful act of expression. Discover how to create striking visual poems & new works of art using only a black marker and the printed word. No prior experience needed, just bring your curiosity and creativity! Materials supplied, but feel free to bring your own printed material should you have anything specific you wish to work on.
When: Thursday, 21 August, 5.45pm – 6.45pm
Where: Queenstown Lakes District Library, 10 Gorge Road, Queenstown
Saltwater Fly Night
Join Patagonia for a night of saltwater fly fishing with Aotearoa’s Angler Jeff Forsee. Find out about the key differences from freshwater fishing, such as using heavier rods and reels, choosing the appropriate fly lines and leaders, understanding tides and currents, and mastering long casts in windy conditions. Get inspired for your next fishing trip, whether here or overseas, and learn about targeting larger, more powerful fish in a saltwater environment.
When: Tuesday, 26 August, 7pm – 8.30pm
Where: Patagonia, 49 Beach Street, Queenstown
Mud & Margs
EVENTS
It’s time to get your hands dirty and enjoy a good drink. Unleash your creativity as you mould clay into unique Mexican-inspired pottery designs. Whether you’re a pottery pro or a beginner, experienced instructors will guide you every step of the way. Tickets $55pp + booking fee. Includes: Margarita on arrival, clay, pottery tools and an experienced instructor.
When: Thursday, 21 August, 6pm – 8pm
Where: Little Mez, Cow Lane, Queenstown
Queenstown Business Chamber of Commerce Presents: Battle for the Mayor’s Chair
Join the Queenstown Business Chamber of Commerce for a free and inclusive evening of local democracy in action. They believe that everyone should have access to the conversations that shape our community, which is why the Mayoral Candidate Debate is open to all, with no barriers to participation. The event will be hosted by Katie Bradford, a respected senior ex journalist from 1News/TVNZ. With over two decades of experience covering politics, business, and public affairs, Katie brings a wealth of insight and clarity to the discussion, making her the perfect moderator for this important civic event. All candidates running for Mayor of the Queenstown Lakes District will be invited to take the stage and share their vision for the future of our district. This is a unique opportunity for residents to hear directly from those seeking to lead our community, ask questions, and engage in meaningful dialogue about the issues that matter most.
When: Tuesday, 26 August, 5.30pm – 7pm
Where: Queenstown Memorial Centre, 1 Memorial Street, Queenstown
HOSPOGUIDE
Quiz Night Bookings are highly recommended to avoid disappointment. To book contact
Takeaways available burgers, BBQ smoked ribs, gourmet pizzas and more! Order online www.lokalqt.co.nz
Don’t Eat Bats! Petshopox Live @ Lokal Friday 22 from 6pm, free entry
Weekend Brunch & Lunch Specials Brunch - eggs Benny, Breakfast stack, butty Fri, Sat & Sun 12-2pm | Lunch $28 BBQ meat platter, Fri, Sat & Sun 12-5pm
Join our Lokal’s loyalty scheme, sign up in store today and start earning points
19 delicious craft beers, tasting paddles, bar food & takeaway Rigger bottles available daily. Offers for QMTBC and HIVE pass holders all week!
PERFECT FOR A PRE WINTER PRIDE EVENT WARM UP!
HAPPY HOUR
$9 house beer and wine 4-6pm daily R20 Venue. Drink Responsibly
Tuesday Live Music with Sean Tinker 9pm $15 Burger Special Southern Bell
$20 Pint & Poutine Thursday $20 Chicken Parmy & fries Friday/Saturday DJs in the beer garden 4pm till late
Thursday LOCALS NIGHT Live Music 6pm - 9pm
AYEEDEEG 9pm - Late
$20 JUGS | 1/2 PRICE PIZZA | BIG PRIZE DRAW AT 11PM
TAP BEERS 5 DRAFT BEERS TO CHOOSE FROM
Wednesday
Darts & Beers, Social Games Night from 6pm - free entry / drink offers /prizes
Thursday Keep a lookout for upcoming trivia nights, Queers & Beers rainbow social and even more fun for your Thursdays!
Wednesday WINTER PRIDE AT SKYCITY
LGBT:QI - Quiz Night 6pm – 8pm
Live Music with Je Marco 9pm $15 Burger Special Bacon Me Crazy
Live Music with Dave Bell Trio 10pm $15 Burger Special O’Fish Al
DAILY 3 - 5PM $10 BEERS $10 WINES $14 COCKTAILS LATE NIGHT EVERYDAY UNTIL MIDNIGHT ASIAN FUSION
Friday OPEN MIC 6.309.30pm, Every Friday, Elle & Alex Music and Beech Tree kitchen.. Burgers & Fries, the ultimate pub grub!
Thursday WINTER PRIDE AT SKYCITY Wigl’it just a little bit! 6:30pm – 8pm
Live Music with Dynamo 10pm $15 Burger Special Classic Cheese
Saturday On its wayfestivals, DJs, comedy, bottomless brunches, new kitchen takeovers and much more!!
Sunday Closed for now… but watch this space!
Friday DAVE BELL LIVE IN THE PEACOCK LOUNGE 5pm – 8pm
Live Music with Mandates 10pm
Live Music with Eby 8pm
Live Music with TJ 9pm $15 Burger Special Streaky Cow
HOSPOGUIDE
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
CROWNE PLAZA, GROUND FLOOR, 93 BEACH STREET, QT
Arts+Culture
Stand-up season
by Jessica Allen
Award-winning comedian Tom Sainsbury is coming to town – twice! This Friday he’ll be tackling Kinross with his show, Can’t Dim This Shine, before performing Lessons Not Learnt in October in Arrowtown. He plans on bringing hilarious stand-up, a sprinkling of magic, some musings and comical melancholy to the stage.
Born in Matamata, Sainsbury was raised on a dairy farm and always enjoyed acting and drama. He moved to Auckland to study at the University of Auckland, majoring in English Literature and Theatre. Now he’s garnered the title of Aotearoa’s official “Snapchat dude,” and has stared in Taskmaster NZ, Wellington Paranormal and Snackmasters.
His stand-up is described as candid and Kiwi – the shows will bring the fun and cheekiness that Sainsbury is known for, but will dial it up a notch when it comes to risqué content and sharing more embarrassing personal tales. He’ll be talking about a wide range of topics, too, from A.I. to social anxiety, being the face of a major airline and living in an Airbnb for six months.
“Stand-up is my opportunity to witness the impact I'm having on people,” Sainsbury says. “When you upload something onto social media, or film something for TV or film, you're so distant from the audience. It's kind of lonely. Being able to connect with people, in real time, with them in front of you, is so special. It can be hard, of course, sometimes you struggle to hit all your comedy highs, but when you do – it's the best.”
Both shows will involve him with a mic, sharing some yarns with the audience. He’s been busy up in Auckland and Wellington the past year, doing open mic and crafting his act. He says the jokes are landing well and reckons they’ll go down a treat here, too, because we all have such a good sense of humour.
“Can't Dim This Shine is going to be a bit scrappier, a bit more loose, and bit more intimate. It's happening at a winery after all. I've performed at Kinross
a few times and I'm just so close to the audience, it's like having friends over for a wine. My show in Arrowtown will be part of my National Tour – so much more official, much more of a proper show, but still with plenty of laughs.”
He loves performing around the country and loves getting insights into different places and how people live. He loves to hear all the gossip, making a few friends and getting to know a place. When he’s in town, he’s looking forward to staying at Kinross and unwinding a bit, and most importantly, meeting the audience.
“I just get so much out of having a wine with the stragglers after the shows, finding out a bit about their lives and then having a laugh. I love when they've connected with my social media videos and then give their own takes on life in the 80s, 90s, or what their Boomer Dad gets up to.”
Outside of the tour, Sainsbury has been working on a show called Small Town Scandal, which will come out on Sky and Neon in February. It’s an adaptation of a true-crime parody podcast. Following his NZ tour, he’s heading over to Australia and the UK next year, making the most of his love of travel and work.
Both shows will offer a relaxed environment and run for about an hour. You just get to show up, take a seat (and maybe a wine!) and chill as you’re entertained.
“And if you're hating it, or you need to go to the bathroom, it'll be over before you know it! And I always feel that a comedy show leaves you with hope for humanity and your community. It'll always lift your spirits,” he says.
Tom Sainsbury will perform his show Can’t Dim This Shine at Kinross on Friday, 22 August – tickets and info are available at kinross.nz. He’ll return to Arrowtown Athenaeum Hall on Saturday, 4 October with Lessons Not Learnt – tickets and info at moshtix.co.nz.
by Sue Fea
My Life story
PETE YARRELL
Sharing the love
Pete Yarrell may have interviewed Louis Armstrong for TV, hit Sir Cliff Richard in the face with a tennis ball and almost toppled a former Prime Minister off his political perch, even received a QSM. But you won’t find this 81-year-old from Lake Hayes boasting about any of that.
He gets far more kicks out of fundraising for Kiwi charities through the Tour of NZ Cycle Race that he founded in 2012.
Pete and his race support team have had the pleasure - through eight events - of channelling what’s totalled over $2.5m to organisations like Child Cancer, Endocrine Cancer, The Spinal Trust, Heart Foundation, Bikes in Schools and Tearfund. “I’m so amazed it’s raised that,” he says. “To sum it up its about racing and raising money for many less fortunate. A fabulous harmony of adventure and purpose.”
Sky Sport will be screening this year’s highly scenic race eight times from 1 September. Born in Wellington, bike racing was a passion as a teen, Pete the Wellington Junior Cycling Champion in 1960 at 16, even racing later in England.
A very successful 50-year insurance sales career followed, and Pete would be 50 before he picked up racing again. The Coast to Coast with son Simon, netted a third place in the family section.
After a challenging upbringing, at 15 Pete was searching and attended a Billy Graham Christian crusade. “That was a turning point in my life. I needed that simple faith in God, and since then so many miraculous things happened,” he says.
As an innocent 17-year-old, his father sent him off to England for a “broader education”. It was a learning adventure for Pete, who narrowly escaped serious injury, or worse, while working as a pool lifeguard when he ordered six troublemakers to leave the pool. He became a chauffeur driver for wealthy Londoners in 1962, no idea about directions or street names. Thankfully, his passengers were very understanding, New Zealanders held in high regard due to the brave Kiwis who fought alongside UK soldiers in World War II. Back in New Zealand in 1963 Pete worked at TV1 as a news cadet – “one of the most exciting journalism jobs imaginable”. He was out on aircraft carriers in Wellington Harbour and even interviewing the legendary Louis Armstrong on one of his visits to Wellington, but all that was about to change.
Called to the Army for National Service, Pete was quickly promoted to officer. “One moment I was a carefree teenager then the next I was conscripted compulsorily into the Army with Army discipline imposed,” he says. “Thankfully, two weeks before our training ended, we were told we weren’t going to the Vietnam War after the NZ government pulled out of its defence alliance with the USA.”
Pete became a successful AMP Insurance broker until at 27 he and wife Jill sold up in Wellington and built a house near Lake Hayes – living there from 1971 until 1982. “I had a Jag and place by the beach and was making serious commissions, but we wanted to give back from our prosperous lives to help those less fortunate,” he says. They built a suitable house and took in underprivileged people with
various addictions, he says. “Some guests came for two days others for six weeks.
“We were now a family of six with a very busy routine listening to hurting guests and trying to think of ways to help, working day and night,” he says. “We just shared what we had –several horses, two simple yachts, took them on picnics into Skippers in our old Land Rover, and hoped they’d experienced something of God’s love.” A bit worn out after 10 years
“That was a turning point in my life. I needed that simple faith in God, and since then so many miraculous things happened.”
they moved to Christchurch for their kids’ schooling and more family time.
Through an Auckland insurance client Pete met the manager of a private hotel who hosted Sir Cliff Richard on his visits and tours. A lover of tennis, it was suggested that Pete arrange for Cliff to play in Christchurch at a friend’s Fendalton court.
“Here I was playing Cliff Richard, looking down the court at him standing ready to receive my serves. It was surreal,” he says. “In one game I raced to the net in our doubles match and miss hit the ball, hitting Cliff in the face!” It was all brushed off with a laugh.
It was the year of the sharemarket crash and people were hurting so Pete and a colleague organised a Christchurch Town Hall luncheon in Cliff’s honour. “It was no problem getting around 400 people to attend. Cliff’s talk around his faith and meeting Elvis Presley was fascinating.”
In 1990 Pete tried his hand at politics, landing only 1000 votes or so short from ousting Prime Minister Mike Moore. “I’m so pleased I lost. I was 40 and so naïve about politics.
“A prominent motivational speaker once said to me, ‘Work hard to make others successful and you too will be successful in whatever you undertake’. That for me has been absolutely true.”
Pete shares his incredible story in his book, ‘Born to Live’, available on Amazon or by contacting peter.borntolive@gmail.com
Pete and his family with Tour of NZ ambassador Julian Dean - seven times competitor in the Tour de France, in Parliament grounds at the final day criterium. From left, wife Jill, Pete, Julian, son Simon and grandson Guy, a NZ Champion U23 time triallist.
Pete, at 16, after riding the 140km Palmerston North to Wellington Bike Race
Pete and Jill Yarrell – a great team
PHOTO PAGE
Pups dressed up in their most fabulous attire for this year’s Doggy Drag. The good boys and girls strutted their stuff on the runway before completing an obstacle course.
Remarkables Orienteering Club Snowgaine Teams took over Snow Farm on skis and foot for the 2025 snow rogaine. There were two and four hour events, with participants ranging from families and school groups and beyond. The club is aimed at promoting and encouraging orienteering and rogaining in the Queenstown region.
Looking at You:
To the man with the dark hair in the black Hilux who stopped to help two damsels in distress on the Crown Range, on Sunday afternoon, thank you! Your help was so appreciated and we’d love to say thanks!
- Stressed and single
Get in touch with the Lakes Weekly team at info@qmg.co.nz and they’ll put you in touch!
Winter Pride Doggy Drag
Public Notice | Pānui
Creative Communities Scheme August 2025 -
Funding Round Open
Funding is now available for community–based arts groups, with the aim of the scheme is to increase participation in the arts at a local level, and increase the range and diversity of arts available to communities.
A funding guide is available online to assist with the application process. The application form is required to be completed online. To access the CCS funding application form please visit: https://qldc.smartygrants.com.au/ CCSAug25
The funding round is now open and will close on Friday 29 August 2025
For any enquiries contact:
Jan Maxwell - Relationship Manager Arts and Events 03 441 0469 or 027 233 7934 jan.maxwell@qldc.govt.nz
10 Gorge Road Queenstown
Phone 03 441 0499 | www.qldc.govt.nz
Get in touch today for a free, no obligation quote. Phone: 027 209 8455 | Email: alex@remarkablecoatings.co.nz www.remarkablecoatings.co.nz
XS STORAGE
Secure self storage units – various sizes available Phone: 0800 297 786 | www.xsstorage.co.nz
QUEENSTOWN DHARMA CENTRE, 12 LAKE ST TUE (19 Aug) @ 6.30pm, ‘Nurturing Peace’ with Grant Rix SUN (24 Aug) @ 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
OUTGOING, OUTDOOR LADY SEEKS NICE MAN. TAKE A CHANCE ON ME.
FOR SALE
2014 FORD TERRITORY AWD, DIESEL, white, new tyres, 1 owner, garaged since new, 260,000km, 7 seater. $10,000 ono. Ph 0274109885.
ACCOMMODATION
DBL. ROOM AVAILABLE IN LHE. Close to Five-Mile Shopping Centre, restaurants, hospital, bike tracks and walking tracks. All whiteware, with own personal fridge/freezer. Bed and bedding provided in large home with large kitchen. $330pw. Ph. 0220973308.
WHAKATIPU POPPY TRUST - EXTRAORDINARY General Meeting, Thursday, 21 August 2025, 2pm at Todd & Walker Boardroom, Five Mile. Enquires to whakatipupoppytrust@gmail.com
QUEESNTOWN GAELS GAELIC FOOTBALL TRAINING - Mens and Womens starts 27 August 7.30pm @QLDC Events Centre (6.30pm from 3 September)- All welcome beginners and experienced - See @QueenstownGaels for more info
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
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.
Arrowtown’s spring show
by Sue Fea
Organisers of the 102nd annual Arrowtown Horticultural Society’s Spring Flower Show are promising a “visual symphony of spring flowers” over two days next month with plants and flower stalls, white elephant stall, home baking, floral demonstrations, a free children’s workshop and surprise entertainment.
Society president Mary Phillips says the focus is on attracting new novice entrants - children and adults, to get amongst it this year.
Flower power pours in from all over Otago and Southland with a bunch of talented growers vying for the Supreme Champion Cup every year and a myriad of other prizes.
Children can learn to create at a free children’s workshop from midday on 24 September. Entries for judging must be in between 2pm and 7pm the following day (25 September) with the actual show on 26 and 27 September all at the Arrowtown Athenaeum Hall.
The morning and afternoon tea home baking promises to be right up there too with “old school home baking” from the residents at the Arrowtown
Lifestyle Village, Phillips’ own delicious scones, and the Society’s winning club sandwiches. This year’s children’s and adults’ bake off will be judged on taste and presentation and all cakes are to be decorated with a botanical theme.
The handicraft section’s ‘Hats Off To Spring’ competition calls all “makers, stitchers, crafters and creators” whether knitting, crocheting, sewing or upcycling, to produce an innovative take on a beanie or bucket hat.
Bursting at the seams in the Athenaeum Hall last year, the show has expanded into Lakes District Museum where the photography competition – Floral Beauty – will be exhibited.
“This is a great community event, somewhere people can come and enjoy a wonderful time for very little cost, and it’s always well supported by the wider community,” Phillips says.
For further information see the Society’s Facebook and Instagram or Arrowtownhorticulturalsociety.com
Rescued hiker sets good example
A 25-year-old UK woman, who was rescued after becoming lost on the Moonlight Track last Monday, is being praised by her local LandSAR rescuers to doing “all the right things”.
A Wakatipu Sub-Alpine and LandSAR spokesman says the young woman was wearing, and carrying, all the right gear, including a well-charged cellphone which she used to call Police when she became disoriented just before 3pm, 11 August.
Sergeant Tracy Haggart says the young hiker had lost the trail markers. Sub Alpine and LandSAR volunteers were deployed and had found her by 5pm, escorting her back to the end of the trail.
The LandSAR spokesman says she was “very calm and collected” when they found her. To her credit she had responded well to instructions to stay put and respond to the searchers’ ‘sound line’ – a whistle blast form of communication.
A sound light line using whistles was an important technique used by searchers and the spokesman says people didn’t always respond. “If you are lost and hear whistles then respond by shouting, shining the torch on your phone, or facing the screen of your phone towards the whistles,” he says. “Yell, but don’t move. Stay still and we will come and get you.”
The young UK woman, who was hiking alone, was well equipped with the right clothing and shoes, stayed put and kept the Police updated.
”She did everything right, calling for help after realising she was lost,” he says. “We got out to roughly where she was and we could communicate with her. She was wearing red, which helped, and waving her arms around.”
It was unclear what her intentions had been, but she was likely to have been walking from Arthurs Point to town, around and over the Ben Lomond trail or via another route. - By Sue Fea
Daffodil expert Lesley Miller admires some of last year’s blooms at the 2024 showGetting amongst last year’s Arrowtown Spring Flower Show
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
jobfix.co.nz
myelectrician
Electrician Required
Myelectrician is requiring an Electrician to join their small Queenstown team.
Please call Myell on 021 857 267
BARISTA POSITION IN ARROWTOWN
We are looking to hire a Full Time role at Kahwah Cafe. Open 7 days a week, this sun filled, popular cafe is looking for another great member to join the team.
Barista skills are essential.
• Demonstrating a clear head, cleanliness, attention to detail are key
• Experience in espresso calibration & dialling in
• Comfortable running solo in a fast paced cafe
• Experienced in steaming milk
• Support in all areas of FOH when required
We proudly use Wolf Coffee & are looking for someone who is comfortable preparing & serving high level coffees.
As we are in Arrowtown we will need you to have your own transport & be available for a mix of opens, 6.30am & closes in the afternoon.
Please email CVs to madisonkuru@icloud.com to arrange an up to 1 hour trial. Sponsorship positions open for this role. Renumeration based on skill level and commitment to the role. Minimum 6 month contract.
Joiners Wanted
• Must have NZ residency or valid work visa
• Must be trade qualified in cabinetry and timber joinery
• Must have minimum 5 year’s experience in a similar position
• Must hold current full drivers licence
• This is a full-time role
• Remuneration by negotiation is relevant to experience
To apply please email your CV to: queenstown.joinery@xtra.co.nz
Go to jobfix.co.nz now to upload your resume and find job opportunities
Full and Part time positions available
Amazing individuals required to join our fun team as:
• New Build & Commercial cleaning experts
• Air b n b & residential cleaning professionals
• Full training given! Great Pay Rates!
• Travel and vehicles provided!
Email us for full details and a trial! slithytoves33@gmail.com and check out our website www.slithytoves.nz
Committed to a healthy work/life balance!
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
jobfix.co.nz
Cookright Relief Operator
• Opportunity to join our friendly team
• Physical strength required, some heavy lifting
• Shift days are Monday – Friday with 5am starts
• $60,000 salary PA
• A can do attitude and good communication is required
• Must have full NZ drivers licence and clean criminal history.
Must be legally able to work in NZ. References required.
Call Scott on (027) 246 3886 or email queenstown@cookright.co.nz
Part Time School Bus DriverQueenstown
Get on Board with Go Bus Transport and with come join our great team in Queenstown. team in Queenstown.
If you are thinking of re- joining the workforce or looking for extra hours this role may well suit you.
We are looking for Part Time School Bus Drivers.
What you need:
• A Full Class 1 (over 2 years)
• Class 2 Licence & P endorsement licence (we can help you obtain this)
• Enjoy being with young people and have their safety and welfare at heart
• A responsible and caring approach
If you want to be parta business that is making a difference in your communitythen we want to hear from you!
Our recruitment process includes a Drug and Alcohol Test and Police Vetting check.
Don't let this role drive by! Apply today! Please note, we can only accept applications from New Zealand Citizens or Residents.
Send your CV tomike.guilford@gobus.co.nz today.
Smiths Craft Beer House requires a LINE
COOK
The successful candidate must have: A VALID WORK VISA good for at least 6 months and be prepared to start within a week or two.
Please pop up in person talk to Fraser or email your CV to Chris@smithscraftbeer.co.nz
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
We are looking for a Sales Assistant to join our friendly team at Queenstown Airport Paper Plus from now until mid-January. This is a casual/seasonal role working Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, with shifts starting between 10.30am and 12pm and finishing at 8.30pm - 24-30 hours per week.
You’ll be serving customers, restocking shelves, handling transactions, and helping keep the store looking its best. We’re after someone who is:
• Friendly and approachable with great customer service skills
• Reliable and punctual
• Comfortable working on their feet and handling a busy retail environment
• Able to work the full contract period until mid-January
If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you - apply today and join our team for the summer season!
Email queenstownairport@paperplus.co.nz
We are looking for a full time Chef in our central Queenstown cafe.. Daytime hours, great team. Must be experienced and have excellent English.
Call Ed on 021 280 2425 or email marmoladacafe@yahoo.com
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 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. You'd be based out of our Queenstown Airport office in Frankton or our downtown office
