It’s a new year, but already we’re seeing the same old problems for young people trying to buy in Queenstown. Going four ways on a block of land with friends, moving to a different city altogether or rentvesting a house outside Queenstown. These are a few options that peers of mine have considered as buying their first home here is proving to be increasingly unattainable.
I recently had a conversation with someone who explained that ‘back in their day, it was still difficult.’ They purchased their first home on Hallenstein Street – a few bedrooms, a couple of bathrooms and a garage at a tidy $130,000. I’m not sure when they bought this house and I dare not ask someone’s age; but let’s assume right around 1990. Taking inflation into account, that $130,000 would be about $920,000 today. A house that matches the description this person gave me recently sold for $1.8 million – hardly comparable.
Okay Jess, things have changed, get with the programme. Well, as a recent first home buyer I can tell you times are tough. Asking prices are a lie and the “RV” barely scrapes the surface of what many of these homes actually sell for. That’s not considering the single friends I have – it’s hard enough to buy a home in a partnership.
My partner and I have been burned at auctions, put in many-an-unaccepted offer, and only managed to get our first home with the help of our amazing real estate agent, Kate Law. But not everyone has a Kate. Even if they do, not everyone manages to get a house.
So, what are the options? The Queenstown Lakes Community Housing Trust (QLCHT) offer an assisted ownership programme. An opportunity to purchase your own decent, warm and dry home, at an affordable price. Their waitlist is out-of-this-world though. Someone I know had been on the waitlist for many years – they received the call to say a home is available for them – two bedrooms, no storage, and now not enough to accommodate their growing family’s needs.
The home is through a leasehold ownership tenure – you pay an upfront payment (purchase price) for the home based on its construction costs only (no margins added). QLCHT registers a 100-year lease over the land in your name, giving you the right to occupy the home for your lifetime. If you need to move out, the QLCHT will buy it back for the same price you paid plus an inflation adjustment for the period of time you’ve owned the property, capped at 2% per annum. Another classic case of the rich get richer and the rest of us stay the same.
Yes, living in Queenstown is a privilege, but why should it be so hard for those that want to settle here? Lower-to-moderate income earners make this place turn around – haven’t we all been there?
Jessica Allen - Queenstown Media Group
Queenstown Bike Festival kicked off on Friday with an array of events including the Slopestyle at Wynyard Jump Park
ON THE APP THIS WEEK
People are being sought to volunteer in some of Wānaka’s most stunning homes, while making a difference for breast cancer.
With just one month to go, Breast Cancer Foundation NZ is seeking more volunteers for the NZ House & Garden Tours in Wānaka on Friday 13 and Saturday 14 February. The tours offer an exclusive look inside the beautifully curated homes and gardens featured in NZ House & Garden magazine.
Each year, more than $100,000 is donated to Breast Cancer Foundation NZ as the charity partner of the event since 2014. At a time when fundraising is particularly challenging for many charities, this event is a major and essential fundraiser for the Foundation.
“The money raised through the NZ House & Garden Tours directly supports our life-saving work in research, education and patient support. They’re a much-loved fixture in our year, and a wonderful way for people to experience some exceptional homes while supporting a cause that touches so many Kiwis’ lives,” says AhLeen Rayner, chief executive of Breast Cancer Foundation NZ.
To sign up or find out more, visit nzhg.bcf.org.nz
Workers are arriving in Queenstown and leaving within weeks because the cost of living is too high, recruiters and unions say.
Despite record-high visitor spending and hundreds of job listings, data shows a growing gap between average pay rates and day-to-day living costs in the district.
Café worker Orla Marshall, from Scotland, was living in a van - the only way she had been able to return to Queenstown after finding it too costly last winter, she said.
She initially rented a room in a flat with her partner in Fernhill at a below-average $220 per week - but it came with “very expensive” heating, she said.
“A lot of our paycheque was going towards that. And we did not necessarily find Queenstown to have higher wages, just higher prices,” she said.
According to Hospitality NZ, hospitality roles in Queenstown paid $28.51 per hour on average - just 2.4 percent higher than elsewhere in the country.
Data from Infometrics showed across the board, the average Queenstown worker earned $69,788 - 12 percent below the New Zealand average. Meanwhile, both rents and house prices in Queenstown Lakes District were the most expensive in New Zealand.
Rents had risen faster than earnings, to their least affordable rate since 2000, Infometrics data showed - taking an average 27.2 percent of each renter’s income.
The average weekly rent in Queenstown was $707, compared to the New Zealand average of $573.
Groceries, fuel and other expenses all seemed to carry a Queenstown premium, Marshall said.
“I just cannot comprehend how [employers] expect people to be able to get by on the wages that they offer,” she said.
“If there are customers coming in, tours coming in, they are charging more, they are making more - but they are paying you the same as they would anywhere else, which is quite ridiculous.”
SPONSORED CONTENT
THE VALLEY STRIKES A CHORD FOR COMMUNITY AND SUSTAINABILITY
A new summer music festival is set to make its mark in Queenstown this January - with more than just great tunes, food and wine.
The Valley, debuting on 24 January at The Church in Gibbston, is the latest event from the team behind Wānaka’s much-loved Ripe Festival. While it may be new to Queenstown, its philosophy is well proven: great events can give back to the places that host them.
In a significant partnership announcement, The Valley will donate 50% of its ticket fees to Love Queenstown, supporting local environmental initiatives across the district.
Ripe Festival, meanwhile, is supporting both Love Wānaka and WAI Wānaka, reinforcing a commitment to investing directly in the communities that make these festivals possible.
Nathan White, of Ripe Events, says the decision was a natural extension of how Ripe has operated since day one.
“With Ripe, we’ve always donated to community initiatives,” he says. “By starting an event on the Queenstown side of the hill, it felt right to support something Queenstown-based. It’s a sign of appreciation for the place and the people who host us.”
Combined, the two festivals could raise as much as $10,000 through ticket fee donations in 2026 - funding that will be distributed through Love Queenstown and Love Wānaka to projects delivering real environmental and community impact.
While the charitable contribution is important, sustainability is equally central to the way The
Valley is being delivered. Like Ripe, the festival is designed as a zero-waste, single-use-free event, challenging the traditional reputation of festivals as high-impact, disposable experiences.
“We know festivals often get a bad name for waste - and sometimes that’s fair,” Nathan says. “So, from the start, our goal has been not to add to the problem, but to try and move things in a better direction.”
At The Valley, that means reusable cups for every attendee, thousands of reusable plates and stainless-steel cutlery, and a requirement that all food vendors use the shared reusables rather than disposable packaging. Coffee will be served exclusively in reusable cups, and all food waste will be separated and diverted from landfill.
To help deliver this at scale, The Valley is partnering with Without Waste, a specialist contractor focused on on-site waste sorting, education, and reuse systems. Plates and cutlery will be collected, sorted and washed post-event, ensuring materials are reused again and again rather than discarded.
It’s an approach that has already proven successful at Ripe, where nearly 90% of waste was diverted from landfill at the most recent event – a figure the team is aiming to improve year on year.
Nathan says festival-goers notice the effort and respond positively.
“People really appreciate knowing they’re not
leaving a massive impact behind,” he says. “When you see how much work goes into doing it properly, there’s a lot of respect for that.”
Beyond sustainability, The Valley is shaping up as a quintessential Central Otago summer celebration.
The 2026 lineup features some of Aotearoa’s most respected music acts - Kora, The Black Seeds, Reb Fountain and Hollie Smith, along with local support acts.
Ripe Events has partnered with Central Otago’s Scapegrace, Canyon Brewing and Mount Edward wines for refreshments, paired with local food trucks, all set against the iconic Gibbston landscape.
The festival also has a strong community focus, with local groups involved in event operations and fundraising, and transport options designed to reduce traffic and make it easy for people to leave the car at home. Whakatipu Rowing Club members will be manning the car park, with donations made to the club.
Looking ahead, Nathan sees the 5000-capacity festival becoming a fixture on the summer calendar.
“This will definitely be an annual event,” he says. “We’re starting carefully, but the vision is to grow it into one of New Zealand’s standout festivals.”
Find out more about The Valley and book your tickets here: thevalleyfest.nz
Man rescued above glacier - Bluffed on tiny ledge
by Sue Fea
Finding Your Place: Volunteering at CAB Queenstown
For some people, volunteering at Citizens Advice Bureau Queenstown starts as a quiet curiosity. For others, it becomes a regular part of their week. Steph and Jen are at di erent points in that journey - one still new to the role, the other more than a year in - but both say the experience has been unexpectedly rewarding.
Steph joined CAB earlier this year, drawn by both her own life experience and a desire to give back. “My background is that I am a migrant,” she says. “I came to New Zealand nearly 10 years ago and worked my way through hospitality and tourism jobs on di erent visas, before eventually changing my career to suit my skills.”
Now working in the community sector and training to be a counsellor, Steph says CAB felt like the right place to start volunteering. “I wanted to be part of an organisation that tries to strengthen our community,” she says. “From my own experience with visas, I know how much can happen to people. They need a safe space and somewhere they can come to ask questions.”
For Steph, being new hasn’t meant being on her own.
“I love the people,” she says. “We laugh together, and no question is ever a silly question. Even when you don’t know the answer, there’s always a team around you to work it out.”
Jen’s path to CAB was di erent. After arriving in New Zealand from Australia in 2023, she visited a JP clinic and saw the CAB team in action.
“I was amazed to find out most of the people helping were actually volunteers,” she says.
More than a year later, she’s still coming back.
“What I loved - and still love - is that it’s not about how much you know,” Jen says. “It’s about your ability to listen, be empathetic, and be curious. If you have good listening and research skills, that’s a great starting point.”
She says the variety is what keeps the role interesting.
“You meet people from all over the world - people who’ve lived here for decades and people who arrived literally yesterday,” she says. “Tenancy, employment, immigration, family issues, consumer problems, no two days ever look the same.”
Both volunteers say CAB Queenstown’s supportive culture makes volunteering approachable, whether you’re just starting out or well settled into the role.
Citizens Advice Bureau Queenstown has supported the local community for 35 years and is currently looking for empathetic, community-minded people to join its volunteer team. No prior experience is needed - just a willingness to listen, learn, and help.
To find out more about volunteering or upcoming information sessions, contact CAB Queenstown on 03 442 6799 or visit www.cab.org.nz
Local rescuers are again urging backcountry explorers not to rely on information, comments and advice posted on social media before heading into the hills with Wakatipu specialist alpine rescuers called in yet again to help, this time on Rob Roy Glacier, near Wanaka.
Wakatipu Alpine Cliff Rescue Team team coordinator Karl Johnson says a 39-year-old Cromwell climber with limited experience got himself bluffed on a tiny ledge above the glacier and trapped, with no way out, activated his personal locator beacon around 6pm on Monday, 12 January.
Three cliff rescue experts flew in with the Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter in perfect weather and had the man off the mountain by about 8.30pm, Johnson says.
“He had some experience, but he wasn’t that familiar with the area, and I don’t think he’d done any proper planning or knew the exact route he should take,” Johnson says.
“He just got stuck on a rock ledge, 1m by 1m.”
Rescuers were lowered in about 30m to 40m above the man onto a snow slope on a col above him,” Johnson says. “It was a bit technical. We were worried that the downwash from the chopper would blow him off the ledge.
“One of our team put in a couple of anchors to abseil down so we could winch him out.”
The man was uninjured, but Johnson says it was just another example of why people should obtain the correct information from proper channels before attempting to climb or hike somewhere like that.
“Don’t rely on social media. Ensure you go to the proper sources,” he urges.
“I understand there was a father recently asking on social media whether it was safe for his son to climb Mt Rolleston (Canterbury). Unfortunately, people who aren’t climbers and have no experience get on there and start scrolling and stirring and egging people on when they really have no idea what’s required.
“Use sites like the DOC website and ask people who are out in the environment and have recent information and experience, people like the Mount Cook Alpine Rescue Team, NZ Alpine Club or Mountain Safety Council,” he says. Even local guiding companies would be able to supply you with safe, accurate information.”
Free, confidential, independent information and advice
CAB Queenstown
44 Stanley Street
www.cab.org.nz
Open Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:30pm 0800 367222 | 03 442 6799
Open Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 4.30pm JP clinic – Friday, 12.30pm to 1.30pm Legal clinic – Wednesday 12.30pm to 1.30pm (phone for appointment)
He says most of the rescues so far this summer have been due to people with no gear or limited skills. “Our team are all volunteers so for us that’s time away from our families and work,” he says.
Te Pou Whakawhirinaki o Aotearoa
Standout Story Image - Wakatipu alpine rescuers work to retreive this man (obscured) from a tiny 1m by 1m ledge above Rob Roy Glacier on Monday evening
A 29-year-old local man was charged with assaulting and resisting Police, refusing to accompany an enforcement officer and driving while disqualified after Police were called to Hanley’s Farm by a member of the public concerned about the way a van was allegedly being driven at 12.30am on Tuesday, 13 January.
Constable Amanda Shute says when Police arrived the driver of the vehicle had left the area. “Enquiries revealed that the occupants had left in a taxi,” she says. The driver of the vehicle was located at a different address and arrested. The 29-year-old man will appear in the Queenstown District Court on 26 January.
Queenstown Mall New Year’s assault
An 18-year-old man, who presented himself to Police recently, has been charged with injuring with intent to cause grievous bodily harm in relation to an assault in Queenstown Mall in the early hours of New Year’s Day. Shute says the man appeared in the Queenstown District Court on 5 January and has been remanded on bail to reappear on 9 February.
Police issued a media call for help from the public on 3 January, supplying an image of a man they believed may be able to assist with their enquiries into the alleged downtown assault.
Drink driving crash – Jack’s Point
A 46-year-old Queenstown man has been charged with driving with excess breath alcohol, third and subsequent, after allegedly blowing 818mcg following a crash at Jack’s Point just before 9pm on Tuesday (13 January). Shute says the man’s licence was suspended for 28 days and he will appear in the Queenstown District Court on Monday, 19 January.
Other drink driving
A 27-year-old Christchurch man was also stopped by Police on State Highway 6, near Jack’s Point, just after 5.30pm following a driving complaint by a member of the public on Friday, 9 January. The man allegedly blew 476mcg when tested.
A 19-year-old Wānaka man allegedly blew 600mcg when stopped at an alcohol checkpoint at Arrowtown around 7.45pm on Friday, 9 January.
A 30-year-old Queenstown man also allegedly blew 584mcg when stopped at a checkpoint in Wanaka just before 9pm on Saturday, 10 January, and a 26-year-old Queenstown woman allegedly blew 572mcg when stopped on Frankton Road.
All appear in court on 30 January.
Woman motorcyclist allegedly clocked at 186km/hr
A 42-year-old Cromwell female motorcycle rider, allegedly clocked travelling at 186km/hr just outside Cromwell just before 9pm on Tuesday night (13 January), has been charged with driving at a dangerous speed and will appear in court, Otago Lakes Road Policing Sergeant Bruce Martin says. The woman was allegedly speeding along State Highway 6 between the Cromwell turnoff roundabout and McNulty Road, just past Ripponburn Home.
“That is truly a ridiculous speed at any time,” Martin says.
Police have impounded her motorcycle and suspended her licence, both for 28 days.
There had been some concerning speeds reached by staff patrolling the Lindis Pass too where drivers had been clocked at 134 and 137km/hr.
Police also attended six minor vehicle crashes around the Wakatipu between Friday and Wednesday and a two-vehicle crash near Bannockburn on Tuesday evening.
Industrial Fitness raise over $13k for Movember
by Jessica Allen
Industrial Fitness Gym and Fight Club raised $13,498 for Movember at the end of last year through their members. Daniel Boyden led a 24-hour HYROX challenge, while gym ambassador Jack Brownie completed a marathon a day for the month of November. Each year they put on a Movember challenge in support of the men’s health awareness charity. Gary Gregory, the gym’s manager, explained that it’s a great way to get the community working together.
“If there’s one thing I’ve noticed with a lot of gyms over the last few years, it’s that everybody’s got their headphones in and they just come in and do their own thing – they’re working off a training app or something like that, and it’s become a very individualised thing,” Gregory says. “If there’s one thing that’s different about Industrial Fitness, it’s extremely friendly and community-based.”
It’s this community that came together to participate in the HYROX challenge, which involved 72 people each completing at least one onehour circuit. The circuit includes sled pushes, sled pulls, rowing, burpees, a farmers’ carry, lunges and more, each activity punctuated by a 1km run. The event raised just over S3,000, with the remaining S10,000 raised by Brownie completing daily marathons. “I ran 30 marathons, and I turned 30 on the fifth, so it kind of made sense,” Brownie says.
When the weather was bad, he’d head to the gym and run on the treadmill, but he tried to stick to the trails where possible, explaining the mental game of running for around four hours inside. He also encountered some injuries along the way, but the community rallied around and his physio got him back to tip-top shape.
“I think probably the hardest was in the first six days – I started having problems with my Achilles heel. When you’re only six, seven, or eight days through and you start having problems already, that starts putting doubt in your mind.”
Initially setting his fundraising target at $5,000, Brownie didn’t know what to expect. He was blown away when he more than doubled that. Everyone at the gym really got behind the cause and were supporting him in any way possible.
With men’s mental and physical health affecting every community, the members of the gym felt it was important for them to take action, and they’ve certainly exceeded expectations.
“We try to provide a safe environment where you can meet people whilst doing a healthy activity. It’s a great place to make friends who are like minded, who want to get healthy, achieve goals and improve performance,” Gregory wraps up.
Daily rides for every ability, led by experienced guides who know these landscapes by heart. Immerse yourself in stunning alpine scenery as you explore breathtaking trails on horseback.
Both group and private treks are available, or for something extra special, treat yourself to a Ride and Dine Picnic Experience or Bespoke Photography Package!
COMMUNITY NOTES
Sustainable serveware with DISHrupt
2026 is shaping up to be another big year for DISHrupt, Sustainable Queenstown’s reusable serveware initiative that’s helping transform how our community runs events.
If you were at the Lake Hayes A&P show a couple of weeks ago, you may have seen DISHrupt in action. Despite challenging weather, the DISHrupt team worked alongside stallholders and organisers to replace single use cups, plates and cutlery with reusable alternatives, diverting nearly 4,000 items from landfill in just one weekend. It’s an excellent reminder that even at big, busy events, reusables are not only possible, they work!
That impact adds up quickly. Across festivals, markets, sporting events and community gatherings, DISHrupt now diverts more than 50,000 single use items from landfill every year. That’s tens of thousands of cups, plates and forks that don’t end up in bins or buried in landfill, achieved through practical systems, good planning, and a team who understands events inside out.
DISHrupt isn’t just for large scale events. One of the most exciting developments is the expansion of our hire only service, designed to make reusable serveware accessible and affordable for the wider community. Lightweight plates, coffee cups and cutlery are available for weddings, birthdays, meetings, workshops and small gatherings across the region.
This matters because even compostable serveware isn’t the solution many people expect. With no commercial composting facilities in the region, most compostable plates and cups still end up in landfill, and they’re still designed to be used once and thrown away. Reusables remain the most effective and genuinely low-impact option, and DISHrupt makes it easy.
The hire only service is simple, collect clean, ready to use serveware, enjoy your event without waste guilt, and return it afterwards to be washed and reused again. There are no overflowing bins,
no confusion for guests, and no greenwashing. DISHrupt exists to support a future where waste free events are the norm, not the exception. Whether it’s a major A&P show or a backyard celebration, every reused cup counts, and every choice to avoid single use helps build a stronger, more resilient community.
To hire DISHrupt serveware for your next event, email DISHrupt Operations Manager Ella Peacock at dishrupt@sustainablequeenstown.org.nz and help support Sustainable Queenstown’s work in the community at the same time.
Lakes Weekly gives community organisations in Queenstown Lakes the chance to address our readers directly though our Community Notes page. If you’d like to take part, email Jess at info@qmg.co.nz
LAKES WEEKLY POLL
LWB regularly polls locals on issues affecting our region. This week’s responses are below.
Did you make a New Year's resolution?
Yes and I plan on sticking to it - 6%
Yes, I've already broken it - 3%
No - 87%
Not yet but I will - 3%
Have you/will you head out of town for a break these summer holidays?
Yes - 58%
No - 42%
Not yet - 0%
Unsure - 0%
Do you like living in our region?
Unsure - 0%
Yes, it's great - 35%
It's not without its problems, but it's good - 58%
No, I want to leave - 6%
Should there be more infrastructure for the film industry in Queenstown?
Yes - 45%
No - 29%
Not sure - 26%
Do you think a $40 charge for vehicle access to Macetown is acceptable?
No opinion - 10%
Yep, the road needs maintaining somehow - 68%
No, but a cheaper toll would be okay - 19%
No, there shouldn't be a toll at all - 3%
QUEENSTOWN BAY MOORING FOR SALE
70m from the beach. A rare opportunity. Resource consent granted for commercial & private use, dive inspections just completed and permits issued. Trademe auction starting 15/01/25. Rorycassidy1990@gmail.com for more.
GOINGS ON ABOUT
EVENTS - MUSIC - ART
THEATRE
- AT THE GALLERIES
Queenstown Bike Festival
EVENTS
Queenstown Bike Festival’s mission is to bring the community together through riding bikes and creating events that allow a space to have fun, learn new skills and compete in their epic biking events. They also want to increase awareness of all that Queenstown biking has to offer, and the ways in which it can benefit people and our community. There’s a jam-packed schedule of 20 events including everything from pump track rides for kids and adults to social gravel group rides, the Coro 1200, dual slalom, and Mcgazzafest.
When: On until Sunday, 25 January
Where: Various locations around Queenstown
Adult ADHD Workshop
Join Queenstown Library for a relaxed, informative and free session exploring what ADHD can look like in everyday adult life, and where to turn for support. Led by therapist Kiara Moore from Aspiring Therapy, this is a great opportunity to learn, share experiences, and connect with others. Limited seats – please book online or contact the friendly library team.
Round up your friends, get your glad rags and dancing shoes on for a traditional Celtic evening full of banter, craic, eating, drinking, and dancing. Enjoy a traditional haggis meal, lively entertainment, and then get ready for Queenstown’s own Hair of the Dog ceilidh band to ignite the dance floor, that’s when the real party kickstarts! Don’t worry if you’re new to ceilidh dancing, Ross the caller will guide you through each step, ensuring everyone can join in the fun, no experience required.
This summer, Gibbston comes alive for a celebration of everything loved about the season – great wine, delicious food, live music, and good company. Sip your way through amazing wines, crisp craft beers, and refreshing cocktails as you graze your way around food stalls and soak up the summer sun. With a soundtrack from some of New Zealand’s best – Kora, The Black Seeds, Reb Fountain, Hollie Smith, plus local support – you’ll be dancing from afternoon till sunset. The Valley is your ultimate summer day out in the heart of wine country.
When: Saturday, 24 January, 12pm – 8pm
Where: 2323 Gibbston Highway, Gibbston
Twilight Bowls
Entries are now open for the Queenstown Bowling Club’s Twilight Bowls. Enjoy some great bowling in the sun, listening to some tunes, and, of course, the bar. There are some amazing prizes to be had, with a prize pool of $3,000 up for grabs. Don’t delay... get rolling today!
When: Monday, 26 January, 5.30pm
Where: Queenstown Bowling Club, 19 Park Street, Queenstown
Queenstown Stride, Ride & Slide
Stride, Ride & Slide is Sport Central’s fun mini triathlon for tamariki aged 2–6 years! Kids will stride (short run/ walk), ride (push or pedal their bike), then slide into the finish with a splash on our water slide. This is a non-competitive event and a brilliant day out for the whole whānau! It is being held outside the Queenstown Events Centre and in conjunction with Queenstown Lakes District Council’s Summerdaze. After Stride, Ride & Slidehead along to the Summerdaze Teddy Bear Picnic, from 11am!
When: Sunday, 25 January, 10am
Where: Queenstown Events Centre, John Davies Oval Cricket Stadium, Frankton
Greenstone Summer Concert
The original ‘wild one’ of rock, Iggy Pop along with the Queen of Rock Joan Jett and The Blackhearts, Hoodoo Gurus and Kiwi favourites, Zed will headline the Summer Concert Tour. Greenstone Entertainment is proud to present great live music and unforgettable festivals, held in breathtaking locations across New Zealand - this year will be the first time it’s held in Wānaka.
When: Saturday, 31 January, from 12pm
Where: Three Parks Outdoor Arena, 1 Sir Tim Wallis Drive, Wānaka
Queers & Beers Monthly Rainbow Social
Join Searchlight on the first Thursday of every month for their Queers & Beers Social. Hosted by resident Drag Queen Miss Kaysey Leigh Brookes, each month she will bring you entertainment that will leave a mark. Expect drag shows, music, Jingo, games, trivia and much more. Searchlight want to keep Pride spirit alive all year around to create a stronger and closer community.
Join Wellington-based artist Hana Dean for a portrait painting workshop exploring composition, colour, and technique. Through both drawing and painting exercises participants will learn key principles of underpainting, colour theory, and paint application. Hana will share insights into her creative process while supporting each participant to develop their own expressive portrait from a digital image. Hana Deans’ practice explores the translation of digital imagery into detailed acrylic painting, with a focus on portraiture and figurative representation. The workshop will run in two three-hour sessions, with a 30-minute break for lunch.
When: Saturday, 24 January, 9.30am – 4pm
Where: Te Atamira, 12 Hawthorne Drive, Frankton
Remarkables Picnic Opera
The ACAS Remarkables Picnic Opera will again be held against the spectacular mountainous backdrop of the Stalker family’s Springpointer rural residence. Auckland Studio Opera, which coproduces the event, has hired a leading theatre director to further lift presentation of the production. This year will feature seven big voice opera performers. Keep your eyes peeled for details, including a number of performers new to the event.
Enjoy a burger & a beer for $30* *on selected beers and drinks
15% off large pizzas, dine in or takeaway* Wednesday Quiz is back!
To book your team 03 442 5555 or info@lokalqt.co.nz
Now Pouring @ Atlas Brewery: Altitude Brewing Beer: Window of Opportunity 4.5% This delicious cucumber and elderflower sour is sure to refresh on a hot day!
Gourmet Pizzas, BBQ platter & ribs, burgers Dine in & takeaway. *NEW Delivery via Uber Eats*
Atlas Nachos & A Pint*
$2 from every combo sold donated to QTMBC *Choose from 1812, Ginger Bear or Queenstown Lager Supported by Altitude Brewing, Crimson Badger Brewing & Emerson’s Brewery
Join our Lokal’s loyalty scheme, sign up in store today and start earning points
Burger Special Bacon Me Crazy Thursday Live Music with Vicky Leigh Duo 9.30pm $15 Burger Special O’Fish Al
Live Music with Danny Atkinson 9.30pm $15 Burger Special Classic Cheese
Live Music with Rob Glenn 9.30pm
Live Music with Eby 9pm
authenticitalian madewithlove
Lunchspecialsfrom12pm-4pm TuesdaytoSaturday
RemarkablesParkTownCentre
12pm-8.30pm(closedSun-Mon)
Menu&onlineordersviaUber&DeliverEasy
PINT NIGHT
8am-5:30pmdaily
Arts+Culture
Portrait Painting Workshop at Te Atamira
Wellington-based artist Hana Dean will lead a portrait painting workshop at Te Atamira this weekend. Focusing on translating the digital, participants will be guided through the process of painting a portrait using one of their photographs as reference.
"I’m also very passionate about preserving physical craft in the current era of AI ‘art’.”
Dean, who grew up in Wānaka, attended Mount Aspiring College before pursuing studies in fine art up in Wellington. She’s majoring in painting and does both figurative painting – portraits –and surrealist styles.
Director of Te Atamira Ruth Heath first approached Dean and asked if she’d like to run a workshop after seeing and liking her work. Dean jumped on the opportunity and is excited to share her creative process, helping those attending to develop their own personal, expressive portrait.
“What I’m going to do is, sort of, a step-by-step guide of painting a portrait,” Dean says. “I’m going to go through all of the steps right from the beginning of constructing a canvas, and then just every single step, taking you right through to the end of creating a portrait.”
Experience isn’t necessary as she’ll be going through everything you need to know. Through drawing and painting exercises, participants will learn the key principles of underpainting, colour theory and paint application.
by Jessica Allen
“The workshop is about translating the digital image, so I’m also going to talk about what that means and how it’s different from painting a portrait of someone who’s sitting in front of you – what it means to paint from a flat reference.”
For Dean, art has always been an important part of her life. Her favourite part of portrait painting is being able to capture the personality and essence of the person she’s painting. Since moving to Wellington, she says she’s found more of her own style.
“I love to watch a painting slowly take shape until that moment when it really comes alive and turns into something special and complete in itself. That moment has always felt really magical to me. I also just really enjoy the peace of mind that I experience when painting – almost like meditation in a way. I’m also very passionate about preserving physical craft in the current era of AI ‘art’.”
Beyond the upcoming workshop Dean’s working on some fun things in 2026 here and in Wellington as she splits her time between the two locations. She’s working on a few exhibitions, so keep your eyes peeled for more information on that.
When it comes to the workshop, she’d love to encourage everyone to come along and have a go. It’s all about having fun and trying something new, not necessarily creating something perfect. “Give it a go. I think you’d probably surprise yourself with what you can create. I think when people think of painting, they think that a portrait has to be realistic and perfect in order to be considered good and I really don’t think that’s the case,” Dean says.
Join Hana Dean for her portrait painting workshop at Te Atamira on Saturday, 24 January. The workshop will run in two three-hour sessions with a 30 minute break for lunch, starting at 9.30am. Book your spot and find out more information at teatamira.nz
by Sue Fea
My Life story
GEOFF CLEAR
Horses, hilarity and hard work
He’s been a builder, jetboat driver, not so confident horse handler and a very successful tourism events organiser. Geoff Clear may not have excelled academically at school but he did know how to party, which, coupled with a good sense of humour and an enterprising spirit, saw him develop a successful corporate events business with wife Janice some 30 years ago.
Geoff and Janice owned and operated Moonlight Stables horse trekking, relocating that from Arthur’s Point to the family farm after washouts from the 1994 floods. Not a natural horseman, Geoff wouldn’t enter the paddock to feed Janice’s horse at first. “I used a bucket on the end of a stick.”
This Dunedin city boy needed a challenge, “something rather than picking up the ‘chaff out’ department of the horses”, he grins.
Legendary Queenstown tour operator Bill Tapley suggested he build an events venue. Their popular barn-style Moonlight Country, which Geoff designed, opened on their Morven Ferry land in 1999.
Their first Melbourne Cup charity event was a resounding success, repeated annually. “In the first 10 years we did corporate and themed dinners and team building on the farm,” Geoff says. “We did 60 events in a good year and were privileged to host dozens of local weddings and over 70 funerals.”
Geoff also organised the massive World Golden Oldies Cricket event, marquees filling Arrowtown’s Buckingham Street. “That was our biggest event, hosting 1000 – three times in 10 days. I worked 128 hours.”
A professional drummer, Geoff, who’s played for big names like The Chicks’ Suzanne Lynch, Ray Columbus and Ray Woolf, would often multitask as muso and organiser. “Our band was the first to get the cricket guys up dancing. That got me the World Women’s Golden Oldies Netball event soon after.”
Sheepdog whistling contests at dinners were a great crowd warmer, Geoff even performing the ‘Southern Man’ welcome for Prime Minister John
Key at the Events Centre with his sheep whistle one year.
In the 2000s Geoff, Bill Tapley, Philip Jenkins and Jan Hunt established the Queenstown Convention Bureau for Destination Queenstown amid a rapidly growing conference market. Not bad for a boyhood builder whose best mates from Otago Boys’ High all sit on high profile boards: “They were in the top class and me in the lower, but we still meet every year. There are no egos.
“Our band was the first to get the cricket guys up dancing. That got me the World Women’s Golden Oldies Netball event soon after.”
“The only exam I passed was my driver’s licence,” Geoff grins. “I started driving our old red Land Rover on Arrowtown holidays at 12. It was the Dunedin fire chief’s vehicle. Dad bought it for us to go to Macetown.”
Geoff’s dad was a self-taught property developer and built the family an Arrowtown crib in Bedford Street. “We’d come skiing every winter, boating in summer. With family friends we’d tow trailers behind ride on lawn mowers first footing. I was about 15.”
Geoff served a building apprenticeship with his dad, working for a while in his wholesale meats business before heading to Arrowtown as a builder in 1986.
“I listened and learned working for older guys like Dave Spence, Roy Bagley and Ron McFadzien. “After work my car had a self-steering mechanism that went straight to the New Orleans most nights.”
In the early 90s he began driving for Geoff Stevens
at Twin Rivers Jet, whose then wife Debbie was a great Dunedin friend. He was initially the butt of pranks pulled by other drivers, usually having to shout after work. – the jetboat radio code: ‘The fridge is on in Twin Rivers garage’.
“It was a good introduction to tourism. I met a lot of great people and married one.”
Janice worked at the Mount Cook booking office - the pick-up spot for jetboat and rafting courtesy vans in the late 80s. “We shouted our booking agents drinks and clay target shooting on Kevin Sexton’s luxury launch. It was a chance to get closer,” he grins. Janice was a small-bore rifle champion and “a good shot” - Geoff was impressed!
He then worked as Skippers Canyon boat driver picking up bungy jumpers at the bottom of AJ Hackett Bungy’s 71m Skippers Bridge jump. Naked jumpers went for free, plenty of girls happy to wait on the riverbed in freezing mid-winter temperatures. “It wasn’t so exciting when we got a group of rugby players wanting to get naked,” he grins.
Geoff and Janice married in 1994 and within three years they had three kids under three, including twins.
“We did 30 years in a row without a real holiday.” During the Stables heyday they had more than 70 horses, the Singaporean-based Chan Brothers using their stables exclusively. “They were huge days. One Christmas Eve we came in at 10.30pm from our last trip – five or six coaches that day.”
Geoff’s other passion, which he enjoyed with his boys, has been motorsport - a member of M-Development’s motorsport team locally.
They decided to retire both Moonlight Stables and Country in 2022 due to health issues. “We didn’t balance our life very well – it was all work and no play, but it’s been a great journey,” Geoff says. “What a ride and what an adventure!”
Geoff and Janice during their Moonlight Stables days
Geoff playing drummer for Suzanne Prentice in the 90s
Geoff in Southern Man mode welcoming Prime Minister John Key at the Queenstown Events Centre back in the day
Geoff, front right, in his younger days giving a boatload of passengers some Twin Rivers thrills on the Kawarau
LWB QUIZ
1. Which New Zealand mountain range runs the length of the South Island?
2. Who painted The Starry Night?
3. What is the smallest prime number?
4. What is the name of the process by which plants lose water vapour through their leaves?
5. Which New Zealand settlement is recognised as the country’s oldest continuously inhabited European town?
6. Which composer became deaf later in life yet continued to write music?
7. Which ancient wonder was located in the city of Alexandria?
8. What is the longest-running animated television series?
9. What is the name of the treaty signed in 1840 between Māori chiefs and the British Crown?
10. Which country has the most time zones (including overseas territories)?
Lost & Found
LOST & FOUND
LOST - IN CENTRAL QUEENSTOWN: artist’s canvas roll-up pencil holder containing coloured pencils. If found, please contact papatowainz@gmail. Reward offered.
ACCOMMODATION
WATCH REPAIRS NOW
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
TRADES & SERVICES
SINGLE $280 / DOUBLE ROOM $330 available from 28 Jan. Fully Self-contained Studio $420 available from the 12 Feb. Both are on Robins Road and fully furnished, ideally long term and mature tenants. Please txt 021 1205326 for viewing.
Secure self storage units – various sizes available Phone: 0800 297 786 www.xsstorage.co.nz
NEVER BIN A BATTERY
They cause fires if damaged or overheated, so keep them out of all rubbish and recycling bins. Safely recycle your batteries and electronic devices at Wānaka & Frankton Transfer Stations.
Community
SPCA OP SHOP – 51 GORGE RD. Open 7 days a week 9am- 5pm. Pre-loved goods and clothing at great prices. Help support the ongoing work done by the SPCA. Accepting donations now. Call into store now to enquire about Volunteering. Your old goods, or your time, could help save a life.
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
EVERYTHING ELSE
Everything Else Accommodation
BESPOKE GUIDED GARDEN TOURS IN Wānaka. Visit up to 4 beautiful private gardens of your choice! Experience for visitors and locals. Daily departure October to April. $100 - $179 per person. Gift cards. Florence 02102792481 | beautifulgardenswanaka.com
QUEENSTOWN DHARMA CENTRE, 12 LAKE ST
TUE (20 Jan) @ 6.30pm, ‘Natural Ease’ with Grant Rix SUN (25 Jan) @ 10am, ‘Cultivating Awareness Practice’
All are welcome.
Donations for the teacher/centre are gratefully accepted. See www.dharmacentre.org.nz / FB
ON THE APP THIS WEEK
Ph: 03 409 2800 enquiries@qmg.co.nz jobfix.co.nz
Queenstown’s historic Skippers Bridge closed due to safety risk
Queenstown’s historic Skippers Bridge is closed after failures were found in support cables.
On Monday, Queenstown Lakes District Council announced cars, cyclists, and pedestrians were banned from crossing the bridge until further notice due to the risk.
The crossing - New Zealand’s highest suspension bridge - opened in 1901 linking Queenstown to Skippers Valley and the Mount Aurum Recreation Reserve.
Roger Davidson, the council’s acting general manager of property and infrastructure, said inspections carried out late last year revealed the safety concerns.
“Investigations found failures of the wires in the cables used to suspend Skippers Bridge in place, which means we’ve been unable to safely assess what load the bridge can currently support and its integrity,” he said.
“The closure was communicated to all stakeholders at the time.
Comprehensive investigations - involving work to further expose the buried sections of the cables - concluded in late December and confirmed the closure was appropriate.”
The future of Skippers Bridge would be decided by elected members through the annual planning process, with community consultation on the draft plan expected to begin in March, he said.
Davidson said he knew the closure would have a significant effect on residents, tour companies and recreational users, but public safety was the priority. He urged the public to abide by signage and barriers, and not to attempt to cross.
NOW HIRING
JOIN OUR BOUTIQUE, HIGH-END SALON IN BEAUTIFUL ARROWTOWN AND GROW YOUR CAREER
WE OFFER:
FLEXIBLE HOURS & GREAT WORK–LIFE BALANCE SUPPORTIVE, CREATIVE ENVIRONMENT STRONG EARNING POTENTIAL & INCENTIVES ONGOING TRAINING AND CAREER GROWTH
Ph 409 2800 - info@lwb.co.nz
SOUND LIKE YOU?
EMAIL YOUR CV TO INFO@REVOLVERHAIR.COM OR DM @REVOLVERHAIR TO CHAT!
We are seeking an experienced professional to join our talented kitchen.
• At least 3 years’ experience in quality European
• Demonstrable ability to work under pressure
• Excellent team spirit and passion for your job
• The role requires dedication in all aspects of our profession. At Sasso we use locally sourced, seasonal ingredients wherever possible.
We are currently looking motivated individuals to SOUS CHEF
DUTY MANAGER
CHEF DE PARTIE
WAIT STAFF
Great working environment, hours, happy staff and customers, view in the world and good benefits.
HAIR STYLIST | SENIOR STYLIST | BARBER FOR YOUR CAREER FIND THE PERFECT OPPORTUNITY
To apply for these roles we month minimum commitment must be legally entitled
Please apply to 2 Rees St dine@primerestaurant.co.nz
Great new family French Bakery is opening soon in Remarkables park shopping centre.
Great Family French Bakery is waiting for you. We are looking for :
Great new family French Bakery is opening soon in Remarkables park shopping centre. We can offer you the possibility to learn more about french bread and pâtisserie. You must be motivated, smily and friendly. You should have NZ residency or a valid NZ work visa. We have a lot of option available for you. We are looking for cashiers, baristas, (assistant) bakers, (assistant) pastry and everyone else who want to take part of this new adventure. Just let us know what you are capable of.
- Baker assistant (Making sandwiches, Baking goods, making products, cleaning,…) Previous experience is preferred.
We can offer you the possibility to learn more about french bread and pâtisserie. You must be motivated, smily and friendly. You should have NZ residency or a valid NZ work visa. We have a lot of option available for you.
- Baker (Making and baking breads, making viennoiseries, mixing products, cleaning,…) Full time. Previous experience is necessary. You must have legal right to work in New Zealand.
We are looking for cashiers, baristas, (assistant) bakers, (assistant) pastry chefs and everyone else who want to take part of this new adventure.
email : marion@maboulangerie.co.nz to apply or for further information
Just let us know what you are capable of.
Email : contact@maboulangerie.co.nz To apply or for further information
Email: marion@maboulangerie.co.nz to apply or for further information
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
jobfix.co.nz
Property Inspector – Join Our Growing Team
We’re looking for a motivated and detail-oriented Property Inspector to join our growing local team in Queenstown.
This role is Saturday to Wednesday (Thursday & Friday off) and suits someone who enjoys variety, takes pride in high standards, and can work confidently both on their own and alongside others.
About the role:
• Inspect properties to ensure they meet our quality and presentation standards
• Identify maintenance issues and report them clearly
• Work efficiently in a fast-paced, time-sensitive environment
About you:
• Excellent eye for detail
• Strong time management and organisational skills
• Able to work independently and as part of a team
• Comfortable working under pressure
• Holds a full, clean driver’s licence
If you’re reliable, proactive, and want to be part of a supportive and growing company, we’d love to hear from you.
Full time positions available at Omega Rental Cars Customer Service Representative
• Positive individuals with a bright smile- excellent communication
• Good people skills & excellent phone manner
• Computer literacy
• Flexibility essential- we operate 7 days a week 8am till 5pm
• Weekend work is necessary.
• Training & development provided.
• Full or restricted drivers licence required [eligible to drive in NZ] The job role can vary from serving customers to driving the shuttle, aiding with calls, administration to cleaning cars.
• Permanent roster includes weekends.
• Previous customer service experiences an advantage, however not necessary. This could be a new experience for 2026!
• Ability to maintain a cheerful outlook and share/communicate to equally manage workload.
Tasks & Responsibilities:
• Face to face and over the phone interaction with customers leading to a positive experience.
• Complete rental agreements in a prompt efficient manner
• Assist with depot administration and daily business tasks!
• Occasional need to collect and return customers to the airport in the shuttle van. This depends on the demand of the day.
• Inspection of vehicles on collection and return
$26.00 per hour | Full time positions- 40 hours per week
Please forward your CV/cover letter to shobana@omegarentals.com
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
jobfix.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
Looking to work as part of a team?
We are a popular Queenstown based catering company in search of a Kitchen hand superstar. Working on events at exclusive venues and our prep kitchen in Frankton.
Our catering business is looking for a
• Dishwasher / Kitchen hand
For immediate start till end of April
This role can be full time, part time or casual. Flexible roster. Great on shift meals. Rewarded with a great hourly rate. You must be in New Zealand with the right to work legally in New Zealand with a current visa. Own transportation is a plus.
If this sounds like a position that you want to get your hands on then send your application including CV to samson@queenstowncatering.nz
Experienced baristas, cooks and front of house cafe workers for our Queenstown central and Frankton locations. Fulltime and part time positions availabe now and in the New Year.
Daytime hours in fun, fast paced environments with friendly staff and meals provided.
Email odelaycafe@yahoo.co.nz or marmoladacafe@yahoo.com
Carpenter
Trade split shifts and sky-high rent for surf before service, shorter commutes, and a tightknit kitchen that values craft over chaos.
Our Japanese-inspired restaurant sits in one of New Plymouth’s most vibrant courtyards with good energy, great food, and a better way of living.
Come for the job. Stay for the lifestyle.
Check out our job vacancies here:
snuglounge.co.nz westendprecinct .co.nz
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
Are you sick of working your weekends?
Working long hours and different shifts?
Would you like your Birthday off every year?
Do you like the idea of free medical insurance?
Want a job where you can enjoy some banter with your colleagues and customers?
Then REDPATHS have a job for you! Inwards goods/Driver
REDPATHS Queenstown is an Electrical goods wholesaler with branches across the South Island supplying electrical equipment to the trades.
REDPATHS has a full-time role as an Inwards goods/Driver and is looking for an energetic, enthusiastic team member with great communication skills to work with our fantastic customer base and to fit in with our branch team.
Applicants must have full time residency and valid Manual Driver’s Licence.
So, if you’re keen for a change and want to join a fun team and carve a career path within the company email or drop your CV with a covering letter to: jack.niven@redpaths.co.nz 105 Glenda Drive, Queenstown
Join the Team at Pier
Queenstown’s Legendary Pacific Fusion Restaurant!
Perched on the edge of Lake Wakatipu. Pier offers one of Queenstown’s most breathtaking dining experiences.
Step into BlueKanu, where Pacific and
Join the BlueKanu Whānau
Queenstown’s Legendary Pacific Fusion Restaurant!
Step into BlueKanu, where Pacific and Asian flavours collide in a vibrant, fast-paced environment. Consistently ranked among Queenstown’s top dining spots, we blend Polynesian spirit, island hospitality and world-class food and cocktails.
We’re looking for energetic, personable team players to join our Front and Back of House Teams this season.
If you thrive in a buzzing restaurant, love great food and drink, and bring your best self every shift, we want you!
What’s on offer:
-Work at one of Queenstown’s most talked-about venues
-Supportive, passionate team culture
-Staff discounts across 12 venues
-Local perks (gym, wine tours, Milford Sound)
-Career growth across our hospitality group
Apply now at info@bluekanu.nz and join the best crew in Queenstown!
Applicants must already be based in New Zealand.
FRONT OF HOUSE & BACK OF HOUSE LEGENDS WANTED!
We’re seeking passionate, professional hospitality staff to join our Front & Back of House Teams this season. If you love great service, fresh New Zealand seafood and a relaxed yet polished atmosphere.
Why Join Us:
-Work at Queenstown’s premier waterfront venue
-Use top-quality local produce and seafood
-Opportunities across breakfast, lunch & dinner
-Staff discounts at 12 venues
-Perks including gym memberships, wine tours & Milford Sound discounts
We’re looking for energetic, personable team players to join our Front and Back of House Teams this season. If you thrive in a buzzing restaurant, love great food and drink, and bring your best self every shift, we want you!
What’s on offer:
Whether you’re experienced or ready to grow your skills, Pier is the perfect place to take the next step in your career.
- Work at one of Queenstown’s most talked-about venues Asian flavours collide in a vibrant, fast-paced environment. Consistently ranked among Queenstown’s top dining spots, we blend Polynesian spirit, island hospitality and world-class food and cocktails.
Applicants must be based in New Zealand. Apply now & join the awesome team at Pier. info@pier.nz
Join Queenstown’s largest hospitality group and work across 12 awesome venues!
Experience is great — but if you’ve got the right attitude, we’ll teach you the rest.
We are hiring:
- Wait Sta - Bar Sta - Baristas- Duty Managers - Senior Waitsta - Chefs of All Levels
What you’ll get:
• Join an awesome team of over 250 sta
• Sta perks across all our venues
• Incentives and bene ts
Fun teams, epic venues, and plenty of opportunities to grow!
Apply now and join the crew that keeps Queenstown buzzing at hr@wolfgroup.nz
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
Real careers, real purpose
Find professional development, master a work-life balance, and join our whānau in the most beautiful places on earth.
With a wide selection of work available, and accommodation for the right candidates, we’re here to support you for a good time AND a long time.
Queenstown
Some positions available in Queenstown and further afield: Further Afield:
• Food and Beverage Attendants
Sales Consultant
Coach Cleaner
• Chef (Milford Sound)
Mandarin Speaking HostGlowworm Caves (Te Anau)
Commis Chef
Team Leader - Gardens
Team Leader - Food and Beverage
Retail Store Manager
• Kitchen Hand
• Marine Heavy Diesel Lead (Te Anau)
FULL-TIME WHOLESALE & RETAIL ASSISTANTS
Harbour Fish is a family-owned and operated seafood supplier. Our Frankton branch is looking for wholesale and retail assistants to join our small, friendly team.
We pride ourselves on our outstanding customer service and are keen to find people with the same high standards.
We have current vacancies in our wholesale and retail departments. Both jobs are permanent full-time (but we're open to shorter contracts too), 38-40 hours per week, over 5 days. Shifts are generally 8 hours long. Staff accomodation options are available from mid-January 2026.
We are happy to provide full training for the right candidates, but previous seafood, food service, or retail experience is an advantage. We’re looking for people who:
• Have excellent customer service skills
• Are physically fit (some heavy lifting is required)
• Have an interest in seafood and cooking
• Like to keep things clean, tidy and looking sharp
• Have loads of common sense
• Enjoy working in a small, busy team
• Have a good command of the English language We offer a supportive work environment and generous staff discounts.
To apply, please send your CV to queenstown@harbourfish.co.nz or call Mohammed on 03 451 1402 ext 1.
Home Helper Required
Our client is looking for a Home Helper to provide in-home support for a mature gentleman based in central Queenstown.
The role is needed over 5 days per week although the hours each day may vary. It is envisaged a typical day would start late morning with lunch preparation and end early evening after dinner. However, you must have the ability to be flexible as the actual days worked may vary depending on the needs of a particular week.
Live in accommodation in a separate flat within the home may be available for the right candidate.
Duties will include:
• Cooking and preparation of meals.
• Maintain a consistently clean, tidy, and well-organized home.
• Perform routine cleaning, tidying, and general household tasks.
• Manage laundry, bed linens, and ironing.
• Grocery shopping and other support activities.
• Noticing what needs doing and taking initiative.
We value the following qualities:
• Has good cooking skills.
• Is very organised, proactive, and takes pride in a well-run home.
• Good sense of humour.
• Is reliable and flexible.
• A calm, cheerful and helpful personality.
• Have discretion and maturity to work in a home environment.
• Be confident in interacting with other family members. Previous experience in a similar role would be desirable, but not essential. Must have a current driver’s licence.
Only those with the current right to work in this job will be considered, visa sponsorship is not available.
To apply, or to discuss the role further, please contact kerry.stevens@trojanholdings.co.nz or mobile 0274-331-357.
