Have you thought about solar, batteries or an EV in the past few months? You’re not alone.
The cost of energy, and how it is impacting household budgets and the increased cost of doing business, is front of mind. New Zealand is heavily reliant on imported energy, the current US-Iran conflict in the Middle East has highlighted our vulnerability to global shocks.
That’s the backdrop for Electrify Queenstown 2026, which gets under way this Sunday. Now in its third year, the award-winning three-day event provides practical energy solutions for residents and businesses, while offering inspiration and debate to move the conversation forward nationally.
It is fair to say that conversation has changed considerably over the past three years. What was once seen as an emissions-focused decision is now firmly about cost savings, energy security, sovereignty and resilience, especially in places at risk of being cut off by natural disasters such as an AF8 earthquake.
The good news is the technology is already here. New Zealand has around 10 million machines running on imported fossil fuels, and around 84% already have electric alternatives. That is not future thinking. That is now. Those questions about clean energy - is the technology ready, is it too expensive, can the grid handle it, is there enough sun, what about range? - have now been answered. Fuel anxiety has replaced range anxiety. Come along to Electrify Queenstown to hear the answers.
Energy costs and sovereignty will undoubtedly be an election issue this year. Those who have bought tickets to Day Two (Monday) will see Deputy PM David Seymour, Labour Party leader Chris Hipkins, Energy Minister Simeon Brown, Green Party leader Chlöe Swarbrick, Assoc. Energy Minister Shane Jones and The Opportunity Party leader Qiulae Wong take part in The Future of New Zealand’s Energy System: A Leaders’ Debate, moderated by Paddy Gower. The lineup shows how crucial the issue will be to New Zealanders’ votes.
Beyond the politicians, the programme features many leading energy experts, including Dr Saul Griffith, who returns for a second year. Auditorium tickets are nearly sold out, but there is plenty of space in the Queenstown Events Centre exhibition hall on Sunday. Drop into the How-To Hub from 1pm-3pm for practical advice on electrifying your home, business or project, with zones covering solar and batteries, EVs, heating and hot water, and finance. You can also visit The Power Playground to try electrified tech, including EVs, and electric motorbikes. There will be food, drinks and even an electric-powered bouncy castle for the kids.
Queenstown Lakes, and New Zealand as a whole, is already past the tipping point where abundant, renewable, domestic electric energy makes financial sense. 2026 looks set to be the year we get past the psychological tipping point too. Mat Woods, Destination Queenstown and Lake Wānaka Tourism
Remarkables Theatre Group at their Pint-Sized Plays
ON THE APP THIS WEEK
An expansion to Lakes District Hospital’s emergency department in Queenstown will begin within months as part of a $180 million boost to healthcare in the Otago Central Lakes area.
Health Minister Simeon Brown said Health New Zealand’s board had agreed in principle to invest $128 million in new operating funding over four years from July 2027 with another $52 million invested in capital funding.
Health officials promised last year to assess long-standing inequities and develop a clinical services plan for the area, as residents were often travelling hours for basic care.
At an announcement in Queenstown on Wednesday, after signing off on that plan, Brown said the money would expand primary, diagnostic, maternity, obstetric and gynaecology, and
outpatient services as well as mental health and addiction support.
“Every patient who can be treated here locally in this community is one fewer patient having to drive hours to Dunedin or Invercargill,” he said.
One of the first visible changes would be the emergency department expansion at Lakes District Hospital with work beginning in six to eight months, Brown said.
The hospital had 12 inpatient beds and 10 emergency department beds at present.
“This hospital does an amazing job - I think it’s around 18,000 to 20,000 presentations on an annual basis - and, of course, there’s huge numbers of visitors who come through this community and who utilise this hospital.
“But ultimately with expanded demand - I think it’s a seven to eight percent increase in demand year-on-year, which is enormous - there is a need for more space,” he said. $180
Queenstown gondola and housing plan raises ‘more questions than solutions’ -councillor
The fast-track referral of a sprawling gondola and housing proposal - despite council warnings about missing details and limited benefit - is being described by a Queenstown councillor as a real disappointment.
Bowen Peak Ltd is planning to build two gondolas
and a cable car extending up to Bowen Peak, along with two predator-free sanctuaries, viewing stations, hiking and biking trails, an outdoor education centre, and more than 1300 housing units across 175 large chalets in Fernhill.
Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop accepted the plan into the fast-track process last month after two failed applications from the company, owned by Australian surgeon Guy Hingston.
Queenstown Lakes district councillor Jon Mitchell said it was a plan that raised “more questions than solutions”.
“Having a rational approach, actually planning for development in the district, is far more important than rushing in with proposals like this,” he said.
Bowen Peak Ltd estimated the project could deliver $147 million in annual visitor spending and create 325 long-term jobs.
However, in comments on the referral application, the district council had warned the spending
Coronet Peak opens $2 million ‘snow factory’
Weeks before ski field lifts usually start spinning, Queenstown’s Coronet Peak has flipped the switch on a $2 million “snow factory” to lay down the first coat in Autumn.
Crews have started producing snow from a high-tech fridge-like machine housed in shipping containers that can operate in temperatures of up to 20 degrees.
Coronet Peak’s learners and ski play areas were due to open on 29 May, about two weeks ahead of 2025.
Ski area manager Nigel Kerr said the snow factory was the first of its kind in the South Island and could run around the clock, unlike traditional snowguns that needed sub-zero temperatures to operate.
“It’s turning about 10,000 litres of water a day into about 240 cubic metres of snow, made up of small frozen particles. It’s so cold that it actually doesn’t stick together,” he said.
Kerr said the electric unit had already produced at least 800 cubic metres of “less snowball, more sprinkle-style snow”, to build a base on the mountain’s lower slopes where snow cover was hardest to maintain.
“This is our Achilles’ heel, the bottom of the mountain, so this is where we need to make the snow,” he said.
The snow factory did not require chemical additives and would not lose flakes to the wind, he said.
estimates could be overstated, because it implicitly assumed that most of the activity would be net new visitation to the district.
It said it could not confidently confirm the development would deliver significant regional or national benefits, and said the application lacked details, including a comprehensive assessment of natural hazards like landslides, rockfall, debris flows, seismic risk, and wildfire.
The site was likely prone to slope instability, and also outside existing service boundaries, requiring infrastructure upgrades which were not currently budgeted in its Long Term Plan, it said.
Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu and Papatipu Rūnaka were against the project proceeding, while Otago Regional Council warned it could generate over 1,350 additional daily trips on constrained road corridors.
There were a lot of issues that needed deep thought, Mitchell said.
CRIMELINE
by Sue Fea
Spate of accidents concerning - Take care out there
Emergency services are warning motorists to take extra care heading into the season of “frosty mornings and slippery roads” after a concerning number of traffic crashes around the Wakatipu recently before winter even arrives.
FENZ Otago Lakes group assistant commander Nic McQuillan says fire crews have been called out to an unusually large number of accidents in what is normally a quieter period for the district. “Driver awareness seems to be low based on the number of accidents we’re seeing,” he says. People need to check and pay attention while driving.
Serious injuries
A person was flown to Dunedin Hospital in a serious condition after a motor vehicle accident at the intersection of the Arrowtown to Gibbston highway and McDonnell Road, near Arrowtown, just before 1pm on Sunday, 3 May.
A St John Ambulance spokesperson says an ambulance, first response unit and the air rescue helicopter all attended and St John treated the serious patient at the scene before airlifting them to Dunedin.
Car careers into streetlight pole
Frankton volunteer firefighters attended a crash at the Five Mile roundabout at Frankton after a vehicle careered into a streetlight pole just after 5.15pm on Saturday, 2 May, slowing traffic and requiring the power company to temporarily cut power for safety reasons, Frankton Brigade officer in charge Paul Halsted says. The streetlight pole was compromised, ending up on a lean, and the streetlight knocked off, so firefighters called the power company in due to a potential electrical hazard. The Queenstown brigade also turned out to the crash but left shortly after arrival with Frankton managing the scene.
The vehicle was badly damaged and thankfully nobody was injured but a St John Ambulance crew assessed one uninjured person at the scene.
At least another four accidents occurred locally within the past week with Police echoing the calls for drivers to beware and pay attention.
Nose-to-tail
Constable Amanda Shute says they were called to a two-vehicle, nose-totail crash on the Frankton Ladies Mile highway just after 11pm on Tuesday, 5 May, involving an alleged drink driver. One of the drivers allegedly failed to see roadworks ahead of them and didn’t have sufficient time to react to the vehicle in front that was stopping suddenly, Shute says. That driver allegedly blew 842mcg, she says. A 19-year-old Central Otago man has been charged with operating a vehicle carelessly and driving with a breath alcohol level over 400mcg. He will appear in the Queenstown District Court on 22 May. Nobody was injured.
Doing a runner
A 36-year-old local man has also been charged after Police received multiple complaints about a vehicle driving dangerously on the Kingston Road at Drift Bay just before 6pm on Sunday, 3 May, the driver allegedly fleeing from them when they tried to stop the vehicle. Soon after, a member of the public reported a vehicle crashing into a stone wall, Shute says. The alleged driver was located shortly after, allegedly blowing 795mcg. The man has been charged with driving with excess breath alcohol, third or subsequent, failing to stop for flashing red-blue lights and two counts of driving in a dangerous manner. He appears in court on 2 June.
Rolled truck blocks state highway
Traffic had to be diverted for some time after a large truck rolled blocking the Tarras-Cromwell highway, near the Lindis River Bridge in Central Otago, just after 1.40am on Saturday, 2 May. Police say investigations are ongoing. The road was closed until around midday on Saturday, road users advised to avoid the area or delay their journeys, if possible.
Vehicle rolls at Paradise – Fluids in creek
A vehicle rolled on the Glenorchy-Paradise Road just after 10am on Friday, 1 May, but thankfully nobody was injured. A FENZ spokesperson says fluids had spilled into a nearby creek so Glenorchy fire crew members, who attended the crash, notified the district council.
Driver caught napping at lights
A member of the public called Police when they spotted a 20-something Queenstown male driver allegedly asleep in his vehicle at the Sydney Street traffic lights on Saturday. Shute says the driver allegedly blew 689mcg and will appear in court on 22 May.
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Wakatipu Toy Library Needs Community Help to Keep Operating During Events Centre Redevelopment COMMUNITY NOTES
The Wakatipu Toy Library — a beloved community-run service lending quality toys, games and play equipment to hundreds of local families — is facing its most urgent challenge yet. With the Queenstown Events Centre undergoing redevelopment, the Toy Library must vacate its current Frankton premises and has found a temporary base nearby, thanks to the supportive team at Remarkables Park Limited. But it must raise $60,000 by mid-year to fi t out the interim space and keep the service running without interruption.
Major funding from Central Lakes Trust and Community Trust South has provided a vital foundation. What remains is a real gap — and a tight deadline — that only community support can close.
Over the past two years the volunteer-run committee has transformed the service: launching a fully online toy catalogue, reusable birthday party packs, and garden game rentals, while strengthening family partnerships across the district. This relocation is about protecting that progress — and ensuring every child in the Wakatipu can access great play, regardless of household income.
Two Ways to Help
1. Donate via Givealittle
Any donation is welcome. A gift of $160 sponsors a full-year membership for a family in need through the Play It Forward programme — giving children access to quality play regardless of their family’s circumstances. Donate: givealittle.co.nz/cause/help-ussecure-a-new-home-for-the-wakatipu-toy 2. Business Partnership
Local businesses can become a Founding BRICK Partner ($1,500) or Founding BLOCK Partner ($5,000). Both tiers include social media recognition, an invitation to the Frankton reopening event, and a team volunteering session. BLOCK Partners also receive permanent signage recognition at the new premises, visible to every family who walks through the door. To discuss a partnership: get in touch via email.
The Wakatipu Toy Library has served Queenstown’s families for decades. With the right support now, it can continue to do so without missing a beat — keeping its doors open from a temporary Frankton base while the Events Centre redevelopment plays out. Every ticket, donation, and partnership makes that possible. Get in touch via email: wakatiputoylibrary@gmail.com
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
Local rescue missions top 1100 a year - Who pays?
by Sue Fea
There’s no such thing as a free ride, so for 35 years the charitable Lakes District Air Rescue Trust has been fundraising for what equates to millions of dollars to help keep the lifesaving helicopter rescue service alive locally.
The trust raises around half a million dollars each year to ensure the Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter, operated by HeliOtago, is adequately equipped.
The service flew 1100 missions in the Queenstown-Southern Lakes region last year, its founding chairman, veteran Queenstown pilot Jules Tapper says. “In the last five years we’ve raised around a couple of million dollars.”
The rescue helicopter service last year flew a total of just under 2300 missions south of the line from Oamaru to Haast, with the Dunedin-based Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter Trust also fundraising annually.
“We have two permanent helicopters based in Queenstown, plus one, as available, through Southern Lakes Helicopters in Te Anau, and three based at Taieri with HeliOtago, the contracted operator of the service.” Tapper says.
That’s a far cry from the early days starting out in 1991: “It’s a big increase on the 400 to 500 helicopter rescue missions that we flew from Queenstown and Te Anau with LDART as the operator those first 28 years,” he says. “The rescue choppers now fly over three missions a day out of Queenstown 365 days a year.”
As the tourist season builds the number of rescues rises but it’s usually around 1100 for Queenstown-Southern Lakes a year. “Our population has increased a lot since the service began, as has adventure tourism,” Tapper says.
Contrary to what many people think, the government doesn’t fund everything, leaving a massive shortfall for equipment, gear and training. The multimilliondollar service now has 22 highly skilled critical care paramedics and pilots on 24/7 rostered duty at Queenstown Airport.
“The gear they need isn’t cheap. The last medical monitor we purchased cost $59,800 and that’s just one piece. A tiny item can cost $5000.”
Specialist and recurrency training is another ongoing expense.
Tapper says the service has always been underfunded. “Government expects community contributions to fund the gap and that’s where we come in,” he says. It’s an ongoing battle for the two trusts to keep up with the necessary funding. “The latest problem faced by the operator is that aviation jet fuel has nearly doubled in price due to the Iran war. That’s a huge extra cost.”
Unfortunately, most people think the service is fully funded. “I’m quite surprised that for the hundreds of Kiwis and tourists assisted annually very few give donations. Some are generous, but some people think it’s all free,” Tapper says. Missions that are injury related are covered by ACC for all patients. Overseas visitors can pay a significant amount otherwise, he says.
Tapper would like to see a levy, similar to the Fire Service levy, incorporated into insurance premiums nationwide to cover the funding shortfall. “I can’t understand why they’re not doing that.”
The trust benefits from some major annual fundraisers - $30,000 coming from Craigs Investment’s NZ Open Longest Putt Competition. A family open day at the Queenstown helicopter hangar on 3 May attracted about 600 people, raising around $700.
On 8 May several members of the local rescue helicopter team joined the annual 235km Westpac Chopper Ride fundraiser from Queenstown to Invercargill – diverting via Gore where the rescue chopper was to stop at Gore Main School for lunch with the riders and kids, before heading on to Invercargill.
A hundred sponsored riders will be part of that event, including a 15-yearold Invercargill female triathlete. Organisers say they’re expecting to raise $150,000 for LDART, matching last year’s effort.
Crowds swarm through the Otago Soutlhand Rescue Helicopter hangar at Queenstown Airport during an open day on 3 May
GOINGS ON ABOUT
EVENTS - MUSIC - ART THEATRE - AT THE GALLERIES
EVENT
9 to 5 The Musical
Three unlikely friends take control of their office and learn there is nothing they can’t do, even in a man’s world. 9 to 5 The Musical, with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton, is based on the seminal 1980 hit movie. Pushed to the boiling point, three female coworkers concoct a plan to get even with the sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot they call their boss (Franklin Hart Jnr.). In a hilarious turn of events, Violet, Judy and Doralee live out their wildest fantasy – giving their boss the boot! While Hart remains “otherwise engaged,” the women give their workplace a dream makeover, taking control of the company that had always kept them down.
When: Thursday, 14 May – Saturday, 23 May Where: Queenstown Memorial Centre, 1 Memorial Street, Queenstown
Atlas X QMTBC End of Season Party
Another season done and dusted, and you know what that means... it’s time for the 2026 End of Season Party at Atlas! This year’s theme is Pirates of the Caribbean, so dust off your pirate gear. From 3.30pm to 5pm they’ve got the little pirates covered with a kids’ party, run by QMTBC; free entry, games, and prizes for all the young treasure hunters. Then from 5pm, it’s all hands on deck as they crank things up for the main event. Fundraising for Queenstown Mountain Bike Club all night. When: Saturday, 16 May, from 3.30pm Where: Atlas Beer Café, 88 Beach Street, Queenstown
Pop-up Indoor Plant Sale
Queenstown Plant Guys are popping up at Country Lane with a beautiful range of indoor plants available. You can also bring your plant and repot it with them – they’ll guide you through it and share simple tips to help it thrive. They’ll also have indoor potting mix –feel free to pop in and ask questions.
When: Saturday, 16 May, 10am – 4pm Where: Country Lane, 26 Hansen Road, Frankton
OUTDOOR
Rope Skill Clinic Level 1: Transition to outdoors
Sport climbing season is still on! Come learn/refresh/ polish your skills before you head out. Queenstown Climbing Club are hosting this course, which will go through everything you need to climb outside safely with a focus on route cleaning, abseilling, basic anchor building and tying-off a belay device.
When: Monday, 25 May, 7pm - 8pm Where: Basecamp Adventures, 15 Red Oaks Drive, Frankton
Winter Warm-Up Parkrun
Ready to warm up for winter? Join the mountain park run 9am, Saturday, 16 May. Lap around the gardens with your mates, chase the clock, or just feel the legs fire again. Spot prizes up for grabs and word is Ru and Kev might roll through.
When: Saturday, 16 May, 9am
Where: Queenstown Gardens, meet at the rotunda
Prosthesis and mastectomy bra fitting service
Becky, Cancer Society’s expert Prosthetics Service Coordinator, will be coming to Queenstown for free fittings on 14 May. With the prosthesis and mastectomy bra fitting service covering Southland and Central Otago, this will be the first time the free clinic will be held in Queenstown. Becky is here to support anyone on their breast cancer journey, providing information and advice, as well as post-op supports to increase comfort. Her prosthetics room is well stocked with different types of breast forms, bras, camisoles and more for all types of activities and lifestyles. Contact Becky to book on 021 225 2501 or 03 218 4108.
When: Thursday, 14 May, 9am – 3pm
Where: Cancer Society, Remarkables Park Town Centre, 12 Hawthorne Drive, Frankton
Green Drinks: Dark Skies Experience at Headwaters Glenorchy Eco Lodge
Join Sustainable Queenstown for an unforgettable evening celebrating the magic of the Glenorchy Dark Sky Sanctuary. Travel in eco-friendly style aboard Appellation Wine Tours’ EV vans and head out to the stunning Headwaters Glenorchy Eco Lodge, where you will celebrate the beauty of our night sky and the importance of preserving it. The evening will begin in the warm and inviting Humboldt Room with an introduction from Leslie Van Gelder of Glenorchy Dark Skies, who will share the story behind the sanctuary, followed by a special screening to set the scene for the night ahead. After the welcome, there will be two guided star journey sessions.
Get winter-ready for less at the Wastebusters’ Winter Drop — a full weekend dedicated to quality secondhand ski and snow gear for adults and kids. Their front yard and shop will be bursting with quality secondhand ski gear for adults and kids — skis, snowboards, boots, helmets, plus racks of ski jackets, snow pants, merino and winter layers. Everything you need to get up the mountain this winter, and they’ll be restocking throughout the weekend so there’s always more hitting the floor. Gates open at 9am.
When: Saturday, 16 and Sunday, 17 May, 9am - 5pm
Where: Wastebusters, 189 Ballantyne Road, Wānaka
Free Community Craft Night: Ekphrastic Creative Writing Workshop
Join Te Atamira on the third Tuesday of each month for Community Craft - a free, drop-in night to explore creative forms like writing, sewing, and dance. All levels and ages welcome. Come along and hone a craft! The next event will be a workshop on ekphrastic writing. Learn about its history and draw inspiration from the Infinite Possibilities exhibition at Te Atamira.
When: Tuesday, 19 May, 7pm – 8pm Where: Te Atamira, 12 Hawthorne Drive, Frankton
Pink Ribbon Breakfast
The Edge is hosting a Pink Ribbon Breakfast at Odd Saint to raise vital funds for breast cancer education, research and patient support. Join them for a fun morning with a delicious breakfast and give back to a worthy cause. Tickets are $50pp + booking fee. Your ticket includes Odd Saint breakfast, filter coffee, a glass of bubbles, live DJ set, charity auction with exclusive prizes and $20 donation to Breast Cancer Foundation NZ.
When: Thursday, 21 May, 7.30am – 9am
Where: Odd Saint, 1 Earl Street, Queenstown
If you would like your show, event, exhibition or meeting promoted in Goings On drop us a line at info@qmg.co.nz with the details
RemarkablesParkTownCentre
12pm-8.30pm(closedSun-Mon)
Menu&onlineordersviaUber&DeliverEasy
PINT NIGHT
HOSPOGUIDE
Atlas x QMTBC End of Season Fundraiser
Saturday, 16 May @ Atlas Beer Cafe
Everyday Café 1904 Coffee and Scone $10
Everyday Bar 1904 Cocktail & Bowls $25 Happy Hour from 4pm to 6pm
Wednesday FREE TO WATCH ICE HOCKEY - JURASSIC LEAGUE 6.30pm-10pm Tuesday No Public Sessions Free to Watch Hockey from 4.15pm
Café 1904 Daily Coffee and Bowls for $15 between 10am and 12pm
Thursday Limited Ice Bumper Cars from 1.15pm3pm
Everyday Bar 1904 Beers and Bowls for $20 from 4pm to 6pm
Friday SKYCITY STAMPEDE VS CANTERBURY RED DEVILS TICKETS ONLINE
Everyday Café 1904 Waipiata Pie and Bowls $25
Saturday SKYCITY STAMPEDE VS CANTERBURY RED DEVILS TICKETS ONLINE
Everyday Bar 1904 $8 Premium Beers $8 Spirits & $10 Gibbston Valley Wine
Sunday FREE TO WATCH ICE HOCKEYSUNDAY SOCIAL LEAGUE 5.15pm-10pm
Everyday OPEN TO PUBLIC Everyone Welcome
Monday Closed for Public Sessions Free to Watch Ice Hockey from 5.30pm
Monday / Tuesday RR Burger & Pint for $28 ALL DAY GF/Veg Available
Wednesday/Thursday Loaded Chips & Pint for $24 OR Hog Chips & Pint for $30 ALL DAY
Friday Spice Bag & a Pint for $26 ALL DAY GF/Veg Available
$6 Beer handles 7 days a week Open 12pm to Late Everyday
Hangry As has taken over the Rhinos Kitchen – Check out the menu on insta @hangryas_ queenstown
Madness All you can eat pizza from 6pm
Sean Tinker from 8.30pm Sunday Dave Bell from 7.30pm Monday Matte Orange from 8.30pm
HOSPOGUIDE
by Sue Fea
My Life story
JUNIOR APOLOSI
A top bloke
He may not have taken out the official ‘Queenstown Top Bloke’ crown, but Junior Apolosi - one of the iconic contest’s most celebrated contestants, wins the unofficial title hands down, according to his mates.
Junior, who grew up in Auckland, the eldest in a large, loving Tongan family, arrived in Queenstown in 1996 and has been warming hearts with his beaming smile, and ‘do anything for you’ kindness for the past 30 years.
Wife of fifth-generation Wakatipu local Kerri (formerly Robertson) for almost 20 years, they met in 2000 after Kerri says she “chased him around the nightclubs” in pursuit of that winning smile.
Initially a chef at The Hog’s Breath in Queenstown, Junior also worked nights as a bouncer at The Edge Nightclub upstairs. “I fell in love watching him on the door. It’s always been the smile and his kindness. I’ve never met anyone more beautiful,” Kerri says.
That smile saw him married into one of Queenstown’s most renowned generational families – Kerri a great, great granddaughter of Queenstown’s first mayor, James Robertson (1866-1869) and daughter of local council building inspector Brian Robertson.
Born in Tonga on Christmas Day, 1971, Junior, moved to Auckland with his family around 1976. Junior was heavily involved in the Methodist Church as part of a strong Christian upbringing and always at the forefront of any Tongan performance. He’s always loved sport – rugby, touch, ping pong, and later golf.
To Junior’s amusement his four siblings nicknamed him ‘Princess’ as his happy, friendly, helpful nature made him standout favourite with Mum and Dad. “That was especially when we went to church,” laughs younger sister Nau. “The man could do no wrong, but it took the stress off us when he was
around, and it was the only time we could have a few quiet ones at home,” she grins.
Junior went through school in Ponsonby, attending Seddon High, before working in an Auckland hotel then studying to be a chef.
A year after arriving in Queenstown he joined the Wakatipu Rugby Club, a Premier player for five out of his 10 years with the club, also playing for The Wanderers, still a go to guy for the club when anything needs done.
In the late 1990s Junior wowed the ladies in Eichardt’s publicans Ann and John Mann’s popular Winter Festival Top Bloke Contest, coming close to taking the top prize on several occasions.
“Junior wasn’t only the most capped Queenstown Top Bloke in its 19-year run but the brand itself encapsulates everything that is Junior,” Ann says. “He’s the ultimate Top Bloke. Just ask his contest peers, who nominated him as the ‘Quintessential Top Bloke’.” A natural on stage, Junior became renowned for dancing in his Tongan tupenu.
In the building industry for many years, Junior first worked for Carters, then moved to Southern Lakes ITM before launching Hi-Ab Solutions, of which he’s a director with several other business partners, contracting to Placemakers. He’s renowned for cheerily supplying materials to building sites in his familiar, custom-designed truck, known locally as ‘The Tongan Torpedo’.
He’s also worked as a mobile aircraft refueller at Queenstown Airport and fuel tanker driver out of Christchurch.
A dad of five, two adult kids from his first marriage – Mele and Sii, then Lexi-Ray, 16, Pippa, 14 and Robbie, almost 8, Junior’s been heavily involved in the Wakatipu Waka Ama Club, Lexi-Ray and Pippa recently named at the New Zealand national championships to represent Tonga in the World U19 Sprints in Singapore in August.
Club founder and president Francie Piacun says
Junior was hugely helpful with fundraising to take the juniors to the nationals and the Secondary Schools Nationals in the North Island. “He’s an incredible ‘Camp Dad’ too, providing amazing food for our four junior crews three times a day for a week, hugely supportive.”
Proud ‘Camp Dad’ had been all set to go to Singapore and help too.
Sadly, Junior and his family are still reeling from the devastating news just 12 days ago of his shock diagnosis with pancreatic cancer, a Givealittle page set up to support his family outstripping all expectations. Launched last Monday (4 May) the page had been swamped with $60,000 in donations in just a few days – believed to be an unprecedented response, testament to a man who’s touched the heart of his community. “Junior is the guy in Queenstown who everyone knows – a pillar of the community,” sister-in-law Cheryl Robertson says. “This news has absolutely rocked so many people.”
Queenstown truckies have organised a convoy procession past Junior’s home on Saturday (16 May) with more than 50 trucks already confirmed in a “moving gesture of love and support”.
A community fundraising auction is also being held on Friday, 5 June, at the Arrowtown Rugby Clubrooms.
Spud Murphy, who’s coached and played Wakatipu Premier Rugby with Junior, a mate for 30 years, sums him up best: “He’s an absolute superstar, a super top bloke who’d do anything for you. You never see him without a smile on his face. He’s so positive.”
Heartened by the outpouring of love from the community as he embarks on this serious cancer battle, Junior’s hoping to muster up just a little of that positivity moving forward.
To help Junior and his family see: givealittle.co.nz/cause/standing-by-junior
Junior on the job locally with The Tongan Torpedo
Big rugby fans, Junior and wife Kerri
Proud dad Junior with his three youngest kids from left Lexi-Ray, Pippa and Robbie
From left, Wakatipu Rugby Premiers - Junior, Spud Murphy and Joe Alaimoana after playing the Natal Sharks in Queenstown several years ago
Arts+Culture
Dollywood dreaming
by Jessica Allen
Showbiz Queenstown are bringing 9 to 5 the Musical to the Memorial Centre this week. The show features music and lyrics by Dolly Parton and is based on the seminal 1980 hit movie. Opening night for the company’s annual production is this Thursday with nine shows running until Saturday, 23 May.
The show follows three unlikely female friends as they take control of their office and learn there is nothing they can’t do – even in a man’s world. It’s funny in parts and wholesome in others – the story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era is outrageous, thought-provoking and a little romantic. Zelia Grizzo will take on Violet Newstead in the production, who’s a hardworking single mum.
"We
basically reach our limit and then it all just gets a little bit farcical – and we essentially kidnap the boss and decide to start running the office ourselves. All sorts of chaos ensues."
“She’s really ambitious, has quite a dry wit, doesn’t really stand for any nonsense, but also has a good sense of humour,” Grizzo says. “She’s quite similar to me, in all honesty.”
She’s really enjoyed preparing for the show and the comradery that has formed between the cast and crew. The group have been rehearsing since February, so everyone has grown close, in the same way the three ladies of the office do - her character befriends Doralee Rhodes and Judy Bernly, with the trio banding together.
“It’s set back in the late 70s, early 80s, where chauvinism was at its peak, and we’ve got a male boss who has been causing us a bit of grief. We basically reach our limit and then it all just gets a little bit farcical – because it’s a comedy – and we essentially kidnap the boss and decide to start running the office ourselves. All sorts of chaos ensues.”
Natasha Wilson plays Judy Bernly and echoes Grizzo’s sentiments on the positive atmosphere in rehearsals. Wilson is a singing teacher that has performed in shows in the past, but not for a wee while. She worked as musical director for the past two Showbiz shows – last year she decided to audition and says it’s awesome to be back on stage.
“When the show was announced it was a role that I felt I could do, and that I really resonated with, so I just felt like I couldn’t not give it a shot,” Wilson says. “I really love the three female characters and what the show’s all about.”
Wilson also drew a few parallels to her character, explaining that Judy at times appears to be vulnerable and in the beginning, comes across as weak, but she’s actually not at all. She’s funny without realising it and is strong underneath all the vulnerability.
“Most of the women I know possess those qualities. I see a lot of the women that I’m close with in all three characters, but definitely in Judy.”
The show will make for a whimsical experience with singing along encouraged, an upbeat atmosphere and a transformed Memorial Centre into a Dollywood dream. Everyone involved, cast and crew, share a love for the arts and that passion certainly comes across on stage. Both Wilson and Grizzo wanted to give a big shoutout to all those involved in the show onstage and behind the scenes.
“It’s going to be very entertaining. It’s fast moving and I guarantee you’ll leave feeling really good because you’ll laugh – there’s some really hysterical cameos and characters in the show. It’s going to be a really fun night out.”
9 to 5 the Musical will run from 14 – 23 May at Queenstown Memorial Centre with one matinée show on Sunday, 17 May. For tickets, a full list of the cast and crew, and more information, head to showbizqueenstown.com
Photo credit: Chris Chase Photography
Photo credit: Chris Chase Photography
LWB QUIZ
1. What is the capital of Denmark?
2. Which element is represented by the symbol K?
3. What is the name of the famous coastal walking track in the Abel Tasman National Park?
4. Which country hosted the 2016 Summer Olympics?
5. Which animal is known as the 'ship of the desert'?
6. What is the hardest natural mineral?
7. Which New Zealand bird is known for its ability to mimic sounds?
8. What is the name of the largest volcano in our solar system?
9. What is the name of the largest desert in Africa?
10. Which New Zealand island group lies north-east of the North Island and is a marine reserve?
LOST & FOUND
Lost & Found For Rent
UNCLAIMED ITEMS SITTING AT THE Police Station, at 11 Camp Street, this week include:
- NINTENDO SWITCH, LEFT IN Taxi, owner ‘Ara’
- REDMI PHONE, BLACK IN worn white case and Exchange sticker on the back
- PAULO CARMONA JUNIOR WALLET
- BROWN LEATHER CIGARETTE BOX holder
- WATCH, SMALL GOLD TITAN watch, analogue
- LULULEMON SHOPPING BAG WITH tights, sports top and water bottle
TRADES & SERVICES
Trades & Services
PAINTER. FOR ALL YOUR INTERIOR & exterior painting needs. Local painter with over 30 years experience. Phone Simon: 021716485
WĀNAKA WASTEBUSTERS WINTER DROP, 16–17 May. Huge range of pre-loved skis, boards, boots, helmets, goggles, jackets, pants & kids’ gear. Doors open 9am - main hard gear drop all weekend, with regular restocks daily & the weeks following!
EVER WANTED TO TRY WOODTURNING? Come along to one of our sessions and have a go! The Wakatipu Woodcraft Guild meet fortnightly on a Monday night, 6pm. You’ll be amazed at what you can create. Contact Kerrie on wakatipuwood@gmail.com to enquire.
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
FOR RENT
FOR LEASE - COMMERCIAL KITCHEN with adjoining modern one bedroom apartment. LOCATION rural Alexandra. $650. per week. Call 027 405 1849
WATCH REPAIRS NOW
For all your repairs, watches, clocks, batteries, key cutting & straps. Level One, Stratton House (Below Sky City), 24 Beach Street, Queenstown Mon - Fri, 9 30am till 5.30pm. Closed on Saturdays. Phone/ text: 027 217 0442
DIGITISE YOUR TAPES
Super/8mm/VHS/DVD/Audio/Negs/slides/photos before they decay. CDI’s constant tech upgrades, keep ahead of degradation. Enhancing. Free/clean/splice. No upfront costs. Also recover lost data. 034486237 | photos@cdimaging.co.nz
QUEENSTOWN DHARMA CENTRE, 12 LAKE ST TUE (12 May) @ 6.30pm, ‘Natural Ease’ with Grant Rix SUN (17 May) @ 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
ON THE APP THIS WEEK
Rocks will be rolling at Central Otago’s Nevis Bluff this week as critical safety work is undertaken on State Highway 6 between Cromwell and Queenstown.
The work by New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) involves abseilers on the Bluff doing a controlled release of rock (see images below) that has been loosened by weather erosion and poses a risk to people using the highway.
To achieve this without danger to road users, traffic management will be in place on the highway below while work is happening weekdays 8am to 5pm. Traffic will be stopped and held in both directions periodically during these periods. The work is expected to continue for about three weeks.
“People travelling on SH6/ Gibbston Highway between
Cromwell and Queenstown during these times should build in about 10 minutes of extra travel time as delays will be inevitable while the work is being done,” says NZTA’s maintenance contract manager for Central Otago, Peter Standring. “We know these delays can be frustrating, and we appreciate peoples’ patience and understanding as this work is carried out for the safety of all road users.”
The work at Nevis Bluff is part of an ongoing monitoring and management programme by NZTA, which is continuously checking for movement and changes on the geologically complex Bluff.
Last spring, work at the bluff included blasting with precision explosives to clear rock that was posing a hazard. About 150 cubic metres of rock was removed at a feature known as Tower Wedge. Work at the bluff this month will depend on various factors and may be amended or rescheduled at short notice. Notification will be provided of any changes for road users.
Get twice the advertising for half the price - for a limited time
Winter is just around the corner, and if you’re gearing up to hire seasonal staff, we have a deal running right now that’s worth taking advantage of.
For a limited time, Lakes Weekly Bulletin and JobFix are offering two weeks of job advertising for the price of one.
Here’s what that means for you:
• Your vacancy in print - reaching Lakes Weekly Bulletin’s local readership
• Your vacancy online - listed on JobFix, our dedicated job listing platform
• Two weeks of exposure across both channels
• All for the price of a single week’s ad
Whether you’re looking for hospitality staff, ski field workers, retail help, or anything in between
- this is the most cost-effective way to get in front of local job seekers before the season kicks off.
To find out more or to book your ad, get in touch with us at enquiries@qmg.co.nz and we’ll get everything sorted for you.
Rock n’ rolling into winter at Nevis Bluff (and season wrap)
At Magic Memories, we create world class photo and video experiences for global brands. We don't just take photoswe build interactive moments.
We’re looking for a hybrid creative-technician to bridge the gap between motion design and the live deployment of our interactive camera systems. You’ll help build interactive UIs, test and re ne guest experiences, support global booth deployments and ensure every experience works seamlessly in the real world.
This is a hands-on role for someone creative, tech savvy and naturally curious - someone who enjoys problem solving, improving user experiences and guring things out.
Perfect for a recent graduate or entry level creative looking to kickstart a career in creative tech, motion graphics or UI. Experience with Adobe After E ects and Premiere highly regarded.
Think this sounds like you?
We’d love to chat - please send your CV to peopleandculture@magicmemories.com
JOIN OUR TEAM!
Dusk Hedges are hiring! We are looking for a Business Development Manager based in Queenstown to drive revenue and expand market presence across Central Otago and Queenstown. Contact marketing@duskhdges.co.nz for more information and to apply.
Smiths Craft Beer House requires CHEFS & DUTY MANAGERS
The successful candidate must have: A VALID NZ LCQ certificate/the ability to obtain one, 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 or email your CV to Chris@smithscraftbeer.co.nz
Ph: 03 409 2800
Full and Part time positions available
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
jobfix.co.nz
PLUMBER WANTED
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!
Want to work less and earn more?
Queenstown’s only escort agency, is seeking a select number of women to join our team. If you’re over 20, based in the Queenstown area, confident, adventurous, enjoy fitness and intimacy, this could be for you. Set your own hours, earn in one booking what you might make in a week elsewhere. All enquiries are confidential and obligation-free. Contact Jennifer on 021 895 131 | www.bonton.co.nz
Mike Lindsay Plumbing is a small family business based in Queenstown.
We work on new builds, maintenance and renovations, and we’re looking for a qualified plumber to join our team.
The successful candidate needs to have, 2+ years plumbing experience, reliable and motivated, Good communication skills and able to work independently and in a team.
Send your CV or give us a call: mikelindsayplumbing@gmail.com 027 284 0233
CASUAL AND FULL TIME ROLES AVAILABLE!!!
WHY CHOOSE REMARKABLE PEOPLE
Hours to suit you | Weekly pay | Exclusive discount at Barmuda | Earn extra when you Refer a Friend.
Assistant Store Manager
Outside Sports is a family-run business, built by adventure lovers for adventure lovers
What You’ll Do?
Lead and support the team
Deliver great customer experiences
Help drive daily store operations
What We’re Looking For:
Retail leadership experience
Motivated, reliable and detail-oriented Weekend and public holiday availability
What We’re After:
Fun, supportive team culture
Staff discounts and incentives
Proud member of 1% for the Planet
To Apply: Email CV to: jess@outsidesports.co.nz For more information, visit www outsidesports co nz
Whether you’re looking for short-term work or your next career move, we’re here to help. • LABOURERS
