As we wrap up another summer season, the Queenstown Trails Trust is putting a new spin on its annual ‘Trail Lovers’ Campaign, celebrating the benefits the trails increasingly bring to our community and thanking all our recent and reoccurring supporters who are instrumental to the trail’s success. Following the opening of the Wharehuanui and Shotover Gorge Trails last year, the recognition of what the trails mean for Queenstown’s tourism proposition are clear, with over 120,000 users confirming their popularity, with spectacular recreational opportunities including the Hugo Tunnel and Kimi-ākau bridge.
The positive impacts of trails in our region are set to be boosted further with the completion of the Kawarau Gorge Trail in September 2026, which will connect the 150km Queenstown Trail network to Central Otago and beyond. Equally at the heart of what inspires Queenstown Trails, is the appeal of trails to locals and their important role in connecting our communities, conservation outcomes, and alternate modes of transportation.
Our current focus has shifted to linking our fastest growing residential suburbs to the wider trail network and places of work or school. The Southern Corridor route from Jacks Point to Frankton is consented and has recently gone through its detailed design phase, ready for construction later this year. We were extremely thankful to Central Lakes Trust to grant an initial $313,000 towards this project which got us on our way. The community rallied to the cause and raised $33,000 during our Tour Aotearoa fundraising effort and subsequently the shortfall has been made up through generous funding commitments made by Park Ridge and Darby Partners with further announcements expected soon. The generosity of landowners who have enabled access has also been pivotal to establishing this trail.
Another vital aspect of our active transport network has been a safe crossing of SH6 to link the eastern suburbs of Lower Shotover into Frankton and Queenstown. To support this Waka Kotahi NZTA project, QTT successfully applied for funding of $110,000 from the Mactodd Community Charitable Trust to construct the trail connections to the new Pūāhuru Bridge, linking the Old Lower Shotover Bridge to existing shared pathways through Five Mile and the new BP intersection. These projects will provide additional transport choices, reduce congestion and bring health and wellbeing benefits for our community.
Looking further ahead, we are also lining up permissions for our next exciting trail expansion projects that align with our ten year strategic plan – including a recently granted DOC concession for a trail from Sunshine Bay to 12 Mile which will form the initial phase of an off-road trail all the way to Glenorchy in conjunction with Te Araroa and the Glenorchy Trails Alliance. There are plenty more irons in the fire which we’re keen to develop into trails on the ground, subject to funding support.
So, a resounding THANK YOU to all our incredible Trail Lovers, recurring donors, corporate sponsors and generous philanthropists who keep the cogs turning and enable us to turn trail dreams into epic adventures. See you out on the Trails!
Willy - Queenstown Trails Trust
Luke Donovan singing alongside supporter Siobhan Tito at the U13 Basin Bulls rugby fundraising event Saturday evening at the Arrowtown Anthenum Hall
ON THE APP THIS WEEK
The Remarkables to become New Zealand’s largest ski area with Doolans expansion
Queenstown ski resort The Remarkables will become New Zealand’s largest, with a proposed $150 million-plus expansion into the Doolans Basin.
The highly-anticipated project, which has been years in the making, will see the ski resort increase significantly in size to 711 hectares from
its current 449 hectares, and will feature NZ’s longest gondola (2.7km long).
The Remarkables owner NZSki has lodged an application for the expansion, under the Fasttrack approval process.
The capacity of the ski area will nearly double from 290,000 to 500,000 visitors within the first five years. And, according to an independent economic report, the Queenstown Lakes economy is expected to receive an annual boost of up to $168 million and 1851 jobs will be created locally thanks to the project.
NZSki chief executive Paul Anderson said the application is a significant milestone for Queenstown and The Remarkables after decades of planning, refinement and community consideration.
“Expanding into the Doolans Basin allows us to create more room to ski, ride and explore in a world-class, multi-valley ski resort that supports the long-term resilience of skiing in
Queenstown,” he says. “It means more terrain, fewer lift queues and a better experience for everyone.
“This project caters both for our growing local community as well as the increasing number of ski tourists; it’s about meeting the demand in a responsible way while protecting the future of skiing on our maunga.”
The Remarkables expansion project includes an additional 262ha of skiable terrain, into a valley adjacent to Rastus Burn. Visitor capacity will increase from 3500 to 6000 skiers per day.
A new 10-seat, 2.7-kilometre gondola – the longest in New Zealand – will connect the Doolans Basin with the Rastus Burn, docking into the current base building. The Doolans Basin will include a full mix of terrain and a dedicated learner space designed to spread people across the mountain. A new hospitality building and facilities will also be constructed in the Doolans Basin.
Alpine experts gather for Southern Hemisphere Conference
by Sue Fea
Queenstown and the Southern Lakes will be well represented when the who’s who of snow, including two highly experienced North American avalanche and rescue experts, converge on Wānaka this week for the biennial Southern Hemisphere Alpine Conference (SHAC).
Hosted by the Mountain Safety Council which operates New Zealand’s Avalanche Advisory, the two-day conference (10-11 June) attracts up to 200 snow industry professionals and recreationalists and there will be a big focus on avalanche safety. Those attending include ski industry snow safety experts, commercial alpine operators, heli-skiing, mountaineering and guiding companies, search and rescue personnel, safety auditors, managers, and key industry influencers.
A spokesperson for the Mountain Safety Council says it provides a unique opportunity to share knowledge, build connections and promote a safer alpine environment.
Guest speakers include Canadian avalanche forecaster, mountain guide and alpine search and rescue specialist with 40 years’ experience Grant Statham, who’s also an adjunct professor at Simon Fraser University’s avalanche research programme. Statham has also been part of the Arc’teryx Pro Team for 28 years.
Statham is giving two presentations in Wānaka, the first on alpine climbing and avalanches. “I will be doing a deep dive on specific strategies and tactics to assess and manage avalanche risk while mountaineering and climbing,” he says. “Using examples from Canada and New Zealand, we will go through risk assessment in a high-risk environment and also talk about avalanche group rescue while mountaineering and climbing.”
On the second day he will recount the story of an alpine climbing tragedy in Canada in 2019 in which three climbers perished on the East Face of Howse Peak in the Canadian Rockies. The climbers were missing through a storm and located after several days of searching, he says. Statham was on the rescue team and says he will discuss their response, the search and the epilogue.
Statham spent the best part of a year using evidence the team collected to determine what had happened up on Howse Peak. It’s his fourth trip to New Zealand having previously guided on Mounts Aspiring and Tasman in 2005 and undertaken programme reviews for DOC and Mountain Safety Council in 2019. American avalanche forecaster at the Utah Avalanche Centre for over 25 years, long-time climbing ranger and alpine rescue technician in Grand Teton National Park, Drew Hardesty will also address the conference. He’s the lead author of several International Snow Science Workshop papers and has published a number of essays on risk and joy in the mountains. Hardesty was awarded the Department of Interior Medal of Valor Award in 2012.
New Zealand’s own NIWA climate scientist Nava Fedaeff will also speak on climate, what the Pacific can tell us about our winter, and using weeks to months outlooks in alpine decision making.
volleyball queenstown
/ Wednesdays, 1 July – 23 September
/ Games start between 6.00 – 8.00pm
/ $380 per team
/ Ages 12 to adult
/ Registrations close 25 June
/ All queries to alexa.peters@qldc.govt.nz 03 443 4791
Mon - Fri, 9.30am till 5.30pm. Closed on Saturdays. Phone/ text: 027 217 0442 qldc.govt.nz/recreation
Grant Statham, a leader in avalanche safety in North America, shows how it’s done
COMMUNITY NOTES
ONE SCHOOL. ONE COMMUNITY. ONE GOAL.
Established as a charitable trust in 2013, the Wakatipu High School Foundation exists to support Wakatipu High School - the only public high school serving the Wakatipu Basin - in its mission to deliver New Zealand’s best all-round education.
As Queenstown continues to grow, so too do the opportunities and challenges facing our local high school. Rising living costs, increasing student numbers, reduced government funding, and the needs of a diverse and dynamic student community all place additional pressure on a school supporting an entire region.
The Wakatipu High School Foundation helps bridge this gap by working alongside local businesses, families, and community members to provide funding beyond what government funding alone can achieve.
In 2026, the Foundation has committed to investing $600,000 into the schoolequivalent to $400 per student. These funds support fi ve key pillars that enrich the educational experience for every student: Teachers, Literacy & Numeracy, Wellbeing, Outdoor Education, and the Āwhina Support Fund, which ensures students can participate
fully in school life regardless of fi nancial circumstances.
This work is made possible through the generosity of our Business Partners, donors, sponsors, and supporters who share our belief that investing in young people strengthens the future of our entire community.
One of the Foundation’s major fundraising events is the Annual Winter Gala, taking place on Thursday, 18 June, at Queenstown Wharf Bar. Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables, Queenstown’s newest waterfront venue will host an unforgettable evening of food, wine, entertainment, and community spirit.
Guests will enjoy an Italian-Asian inspired menu paired with premium Central Otago wines and beers generously donated by
local sponsors. The evening will feature live music, silent and live auctions, and a range of exclusive experiences and sought-after items available for bidding.
The Winter Gala is not only a fantastic night out, but an opportunity for the community to come together and invest in the future of local young people.
Whether through attending an event, becoming a Business Partner, making a donation, or simply spreading the word, every contribution helps ensure Wakatipu High School students have access to the opportunities they need to thrive.
Together, we are building a stronger future for our school, our students, and our community.
Purchase tickets for the Winter Gala at www.whsf.nz
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
CRIMELINE
by Sue Fea
Determined burglars nab thousands of dollars worth of beer – 11th Avenue
Burglars who targeted 11th Avenue in Frankton, hit twice last week, were “pretty determined”, those caught on security camera even bringing empty plastic milk containers to fill from the beer taps, co-owner Gino Mendoza says.
He estimates he’s probably lost more than $4000 worth of alcohol in the two overnight raids on his suburban café-restaurant, the two people believed to be responsible going to great lengths to cover their faces and identities.
Police investigating the two burglaries say they’ve still had a good response from the public to photos from new security cameras in 11th Avenue’s beer garden, but they’re keen for further information which could help them identify and locate the offenders. Senior Sergeant Glenn Wilkinson says the CCTV images posted on the Southern District Police Facebook page show the pair helping themselves to alcohol from 11th Avenue’s outdoor shelter bar by Frank’s at Remarkables Park.
Police say the burglaries occurred about 2.45am on Sunday (31 May) and 2.20am on Wednesday (27 May).
Constable Amanda Shute says a keg stolen from the bar has been recovered by Police. “We’re encouraging anyone with further information to contact Police via 105 or Crimestoppers,” she says.
Mendoza, who only bought the restaurant and bar with his wife in January, says cans and bottles of beer were also stolen. He estimates around $1500 was taken during the Sunday (31 May) burglary alone.
Despite extra security measures taken, including chains and heavy locks on the fridges and better positioning of the cameras, the persistent burglars weren’t deterred, he says. “We first saw them on camera arriving at 2am and then they returned at 3am bringing back big cutters,” he says. “It’s very concerning. The intention was still really there,” Mendoza says.
He says he suspects that, prior to the repositioning of the security cameras, they’ve likely been burgled on two more occasions with their inventory not matching up.
Downtown drivers allegedly four and five times over limit
Police nabbed two alleged drink drivers – one allegedly almost five times over the legal limit and the other more than four times, both caught in central Queenstown on Friday, 29 May, and say they will be holding all drivers accountable for their behaviour and poor decisions.
“It beggars belief that people can have that much to drink and even contemplate getting behind the wheel of a vehicle, Otago Lakes Road Policing manager Acting Senior Sergeant Dylan Hannah-Jones says. “It’s completely unacceptable”.
One of the alleged drivers was a 20-year-old local man stopped on Hallenstein Street just after 10.30pm after colliding with two parked vehicles, Constable Amanda Shute says. He allegedly blew 1231mcg and his licence was suspended for 28 days. He’s been charged with driving with a breath alcohol level over 400mcg and operating a vehicle carelessly and appears in the Queenstown District Court on 22 June.
The other man charged was a 25-year-old from Dunedin, who allegedly blew 1166mcg when stopped just after 1am on Lake Esplanade. His licence was also suspended for 28 days, and he will appear in court on 26 June.
Other drink driving
An 18-year-old local teenage woman also allegedly blew 234mcg just after 1am on Saturday and will face a charge of driving as a person under 20 over 159mcg in court on 26 June.
Gibbston crash in ice
Thankfully nobody was injured in a single-vehicle collision when a driver slowed to take a right-hand bend and lost control in ice on Gibbston Highway just before 1.30am on Thursday, 28 May, Shute says. “The vehicle skidded 20 metres before hitting a bank on the right side of the road and rolling onto the passenger side.”
Large bonfire tamed
Frankton volunteer firefighters turned out to a large bonfire at Hanley’s Farm around 6pm on Saturday after a nearby resident saw the flames and called them in. Station officer Karl Argyle says the fire was very noticeable from the highway and while it wasn’t posing any immediate threat officers just tamed it back a bit to a less aggressive level.
health MENTAL
The Loneliness Nobody Warns You About After Cancer
by Katherine Froggatt
There is a particular kind of loneliness that comes with a cancer diagnosis. Not the kind that comes from being unloved or a lack of support or people rallying around you. This loneliness lives right in the middle of a full room. It sits quietly beside you while your partner holds your hand, while your friends message to check in, while your family does everything they can think of to help.
It is the loneliness of knowing there are things you simply cannot say out loud without watching someone you love fall apart. So you carry it quietly. And quietly becomes very lonely, very fast. I have been thinking about this a lot since recording Episode 2 of Breast Wise: Unafraid with Dr. Barbara Hochstein, one of New Zealand’s most experienced breast radiologists and a breast cancer survivor herself. Barbara described women arriving at the Aratika Cancer Trust retreats with empty eyes. Women who were surrounded by love and still felt completely alone.
Because here is what nobody tells you: a cancer diagnosis can feel like being strapped onto a rollercoaster you never chose, moving at a speed you cannot control, while everyone around you is watching from the ground. You are dizzy. Your body does not feel like yours. And the people who love you most do not always know how to reach you up there. Some friends disappear entirely. Not because they do not care. Because fear drives them away. They do not know what to say, so they say nothing. They do not know what to do, so they do not show up. And that absence, however unintentional, cuts deeply.
A friend detox during this time is completely normal. When you are in the thick of an emotional ood, you simply do not have the capacity to manage other people’s discomfort about your diagnosis on top of your
own. Letting go of relationships that are draining you during this season is not betrayal. It is survival.
What changed the trajectory of my own recovery was surrounding myself with someone who knew this journey intimately. Someone who did not need it explained. That kind of connection is not a nice-to-have. It is medicine.
If you are a friend or caregiver reading this, here is the simplest thing I can offer you: you do not need to know what to say. You just need to show up and say “I am here for you, whatever that looks like.” That is enough. More than enough.
This conversation continued in a way that genuinely moved me in Episode 2 of Breast Wise: Unafraid. If you have not listened yet, I would love for you to nd it and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. breastwise.co.nz/podcast
If you are in Queenstown this month, I am also speaking at the Pink Ribbon Brunch at Sudima Hotel Five Mile. Come and nd me. Details here: facebook.com/events/1288877016791810
You do not have to navigate this alone. Nobody should have to.
Katherine Froggatt is a 10-year breast cancer thriver, Evidence-Based EFT Practitioner, Metabolic Health Coach, and founder of Breast Wise, a breast cancer recovery and survivorship coaching platform based in Queenstown. Visit breastwise.co.nz
ON THE APP THIS WEEK
A decade ago, the average asking price in Central Otago/Lakes District was lower than Auckland’s. Today, it costs $650,000 more.
Latest data from realestate.co.nz’s May 2026 Property Report shows Central Otago/Lakes District has reached a record average asking price of $1.67 million, up 20.1% year-on-year and now sitting well ahead of Auckland’s average asking price of $1.02 million.
Back in May 2016, the average asking price in Central Otago/Lakes was $836,782, around $45,000 less than Auckland. The two regions tracked closely for years before the gap began widening around 2016 and accelerated during the pandemic years.
The data points to a significant shift in New Zealand’s property market, where lifestyle destinations such as Queenstown and Wānaka have become some of the country’s most valuable property markets.
realestate.co.nz spokesperson Vanessa Williams says the trend reflects changing buyer priorities. “Lifestyle, landscape and liveability have become serious price drivers, and Central Otago/Lakes District has them all. Especially in a world where hybrid working means buyers no longer have to choose between a great job and a great place to live.”
The report also shows:
• The national average asking price remains largely unchanged, down just 0.2% year-on-year to $862,518.
• More than 9,500 new listings came to market in May, the highest May total since 2018.
• Stock levels are up 5.0% nationally, giving buyers more choice.
Central Otago/Lakes District hits new average asking price high, soaring past Auckland
GOINGS ON ABOUT
EVENTS - MUSIC - ART
THEATRE - AT THE GALLERIES
Pink Ribbon Lunch
COMMUNITY
Sudima Queenstown at Five Mile is hosting a Pink Ribbon Lunch in partnership with Custom Mortgages. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon of lunch, bubbles, raffle and best dressed prizes, photo booth fun, and hear from special guest speaker Katherine Froggatt of Breast Wise. A portion of each ticket sale will be donated to Breast Cancer Foundation. Tickets are $75 and can be reserved by emailing alia@sudimahotels.com
When: Thursday, 11 June, 12pm
Where: Sudima Queenstown, 20 Grant Road, Frankton
Cancer Support Walking Group
Walk and talk cancer support group for anyone impacted by cancer, hosted by Tara from Cancer Society. Meet at the Cancer Society Centre - next to Unichem Remarkables Pharmacy.
When: Wednesday, 17 June, 5pm – 6pm
Where: Remarkables Park Town Centre, Hawthorne Drive, Frankton
Winter Gala
A major fundraising event for the Wakatipu High School Foundation. Guests will enjoy an Italian-Asian inspired menu paired with premium Central Otago wines and beers generously donated by local sponsors. The evening will feature live music, silent and live auctions, and a range of exclusive experiences and sought-after items available for bidding. The Winter Gala is not only a fantastic night out, but an opportunity for the community to come together and invest in the future of local young people. Purchase tickets for the Winter Gala at www.whsf.nz
When: Thursday, 18 June, 6pm
Where: Wharf Bar, Steamer Wharf, 1/88 Beach Street, Queenstown
Happiness House Knitting Group
Whether you’re a seasoned knitter, a complete beginner, or just here for the cup of tea – you are so welcome! Happiness House’s weekly knitting group is a wonderful mid-week chance to slow down, get creative, and connect with lovely people. No experience needed at all – just come as you are. Bring your own knitting gear or use theirs, all skill levels are welcome – including none.
When: Wednesdays, 10am – 12pm
Where: Happiness House, 4 Park Street, Queenstown
Open Mic Night
OPEN MIC
Whether you’re a singer, musician, comedian or simply love live entertainment, Crew Room invite you to take the stage and showcase your talent in a welcoming, supportive atmosphere. Free entry. Bring your friends, enjoy the vibe, and show everyone what you’ve got.
When: Wednesdays, from 9pm
Where: Crew Room, 15 Ballarat Street, Queenstown
Freediving Club Introduction
EVENTS
Do you want to learn some freediving basics, start training with the Queenstown Freediving Club, refresh your freediving skills, or just see how long you can hold your breath in a safe environment? If you answered yes to any of these questions then this is the session for you! Queenstown Freediving Club run through a bit of theory first. You’ll learn about basic freediving physiology and safety, plus how to breathe! Meet in the foyer at the Events Centre by 5.30pm (don’t get changed first).
When: Tuesday, 16 June, 5.30pm – 8pm
Where: Alpine Aqualand, Joe O’Connell Drive, Frankton
NZ Mountain Film and Book Festival
Now in its 24th year, the festival showcases an exceptional selection of award-winning international and New Zealand films celebrating adventure, exploration, mountain culture and the natural world.
The Queenstown programme features a curated lineup of highlights from the festival’s international film competition, including stories of climbing, skiing, conservation and human endurance in some of the planet’s most spectacular landscapes.
When: Wānaka, Friday, 19 - Tuesday, 23 June and Queenstown, Thursday, 25 - Friday, 26 June
Where: Lake Wānaka Centre, 89 Admore Street Wānaka, and Queenstown Memorial Centre, 1 Memorial Street, Queenstown
Saturday Arts Social: Te reo Māori with Paris Tainui
Saturday Arts Social series for the 60yrs+ community. Over the first two Saturdays in June, Te Atamira will welcome Paris Tainui, and you will be learning and exploring language of the land. About your facilitator: Paris Tainui is a moko practitioner and reo Māori teacher, he is a self driven individual who loves detail and visual language.
When: Saturday, 6 June, 10.30am – 12.30pm
Where: Te Atamira, 12 Hawthorne Drive, Frankton
Community Draw - Break, Build, Reflect
Join Te Atamira with sketchbook and pencil in hand for Community Draw, on the second Tuesday of every month. No experience necessary - come along and embrace the joy of different approaches to drawing. This week’s workshop is hand’s on — participants will place a cup and plate inside a cloth bag, carefully break them with a hammer, and then attempt to reconstruct the objects using super glue. It sounds destructive at first, but the real purpose is to explore perception, observation, form, and function in a tactile, mindful way.
When: Tuesday, 9 June, 6.30pm - 9pm
Where: Te Atamira, 12 Hawthorne Drive, Frankton
Open Studios & Creative Trails
On Sunday, 14 June, Three Lakes Cultural Trust will be celebrating the creative and cultural landscape of our district with a self-guided day of Open Studios & Creative Trails. Explore and experience the diverse range of creative and cultural activity happening across Queenstown and Wānaka. Studios, workspaces, and cultural sites will be open for you to drop in, meet local artists and practitioners, and get a closer look at the work happening throughout the region.
When: Sunday, 14 June, 9am – 5pm
Where: Sherwood, 554 Frankton Road, Queenstown
HOSPOGUIDE
Taco Tuesday 2 tacos & a beer for $30* *on selected beers and drinks Wednesday Stacked Steak
Buy a steak or vegan steak, get it loaded with onion rings & garlic bread for free!
Thursday Burger & Beer
(Great Deals and the Biggest DJs)
Enjoy a burger & a beer for $30* *on selected beers and drinks Friday Poutine & Beer
Saturday & Sunday
Grab a classic poutine & B.Effect lager for $20
KARMA KEGS CONTINUE Atlas X QMTBC Drinks for Good $$
Monday Steak for 2
Buy 2 rump steaks for $50
To keep things running smoothly and looking their best, Lokal will be closed from Monday, 25 May. We apologize for any inconvenience, but we’ll be back open and ready to welcome you all from around mid June! See you then!
- Your World Cup VenueLIVE & LOUD All games from 7am
Whatever the occasion, Queenstown Bowling Club is the perfect place to bring people together. Now taking bookings: enquiries@bowlsqueenstown.co.nz
Tuesday Free to Watch Ice Hockey Trainings from 4.15pm
Wednesday Free to Watch Ice Hockey Jurassic League from 6.30pm10pm
Thursday All-Day, AllAccess Ice Skating from 9.30am-4pm Friday SKYCITY Stampede LEGENDS the game of the century!! Tickets available online! Saturday CLOSED FOR PUBLIC DUE TO SIHL - SKYCITY Stampede LEGENDS the game of the century!! Tickets available online!
All You Can Eat Pizza $35 Everyday from 5pm Bookings essential Thursday Pav Apres hour $10 Pav Wine, Beer & Aperol Spritz Everyday 4pm to 6pm
All You Can Eat Pizza $35 Everyday from 5pm Bookings essential
Sunday South Island Hockey League Tournament Free to watch from 9am-12pm
Monday Bump, Skate & Frisbee All Day long from 10am5.15pm
Saturday Pav Apres hour $10 Pav Wine, Beer & Aperol Spritz Everyday 4pm to 6pm Sunday $24 Sunday Roast Available Lunch & Dinner Bookings essential $26 Business Lunches Monday to Friday 12pm - 3pm
Is your “Pint” a Pint?! Get your 570ml Imperial Pints here $6 Beer handles 7 days a week
from 11pm
QUIZ NIGHT Bar tab prizes from 7pm DJ Ayeedeeg from 9pm
Dave Arnold from 8pm
Mo Ackerman from 8pm
Trad Band from 8.30pm
Madness All you can eat pizza from 6pm
Nic Shea from 5pm Ribera from 9pm Mad Mondays DJ Mad from 9pm
Dave Bell from 7.30pm
Sean Tinker from 8.30pm
HOSPOGUIDE
$10 Jagerbombs | $10 Coronas |
Live Music with Dorothy Ella 9pm $15 Burger Special Southern Bell
DJ Aidan 9pm
$16 Cocktails
R20 Venue. Drink Responsibly.
Live Music with Blake 9pm $15 Burger Special Bacon Me Crazy
Live Music with B&D 9pm $15 Burger Special O’Fish Al
$7 Jack Daniels & Coca-Cola & Absolut & Sprite RTDS
Hangry As has taken over the Rhinos Kitchen – Check out the menu on insta @hangryas_ queenstown
4pm – 6pm | $5 fries | 10% off drinks R20 Venue. Drink Responsibly. Limited time only. *Exclusive to SkyCity Stampede ticket holders upon presentation of your ticket for that night’s home game.
Live Music with Danny Atkinson 9.30pm $15 Burger Special Classic Cheese
Live music with Mandates 9.30pm
Chicken parmy, chips & salad | $25 from 11am Live music from 5pm Karaoke | 9pm
Burger & chips $22 | From 11am Live music | 5pm
Live music 5pm Rugby SevensParis | 8pm
Live music 5pm Rugby SevensParis | 8pm
Live Music with Brett 7pm Live DJ with Aidan 10pm Monday Live Music with Tai Forester 9pm
$15 Burger Special Streaky Cow
and other delicious southern classics
Live music from 2pm
Monday 200g wagyu rump, chips, salad & sauce | $25 from 11am Hospo Night
by Sue Fea
My Life story
MIKE BRETTELL
Making sure the show goes on
Some people make more of an impact backstage than centre stage and Queenstown sound and lighting legend Mike Brettell is one of those people.
Renowned locally for his tireless dedication behind the scenes assisting at everything from kids’ shows and community concerts to Remarkable Theatre performances and autumn festivals, Mike’s been setting the scene and sound.
After 30 years in the business, much of that as a heavily discounted community service, at 60 Mike had been hoping to “wind down” a bit since branching out on his own in the audio-visual business eight years ago.
“I love my motorcycle collection and getting out on long rides with the guys, but I’m now busier than ever working 18-hour days, seven days a week,” he says. Much of that is due to the big increase in weddings – last year a huge one, with more brides and grooms opting for marquees brought alive with Mike’s fairy lighting, festoons and lighting bands. “They’re now seeing draped roofing and walls in Vogue Magazines so we’re getting requests for that this year.”
Funerals are increasingly requiring his skills too, recently managing a 700-strong crowd in a Central Otago barn with 150 more online.
No sweat when you’ve been sound engineer for the Queen’s Dunedin tour luncheon back in the day, getting up close and personal behind her glass security doors. Mike’s hung out on stage on the Crowded House couch during their 1980s tour, with UB40, and set the atmosphere for Sam Neill’s first big Jurassic Park launch.
Forced to employ three staff, he’s now in demand with an Australian tour company bringing older Australians on nostalgic trips to New Zealand commemorating icons like Sir Ed Hillary. Mike travels to Mount Cook every Wednesday to manage those presentations on Sir Ed’s legacy by his kids, either Peter or Sarah. “That’s grown pretty big and they’ve got big numbers coming through.”
For Mackenzie Country-raised Mike it’s like “being home”. Mike grew up in Otematata, near Twizel, his dad driving trucks and diggers on the hydro dam project. They moved to South Dunedin when Mike was six where his dad became a baker, the family living above the bakery. Endless hours were spent roaming the foothills on their bikes, home after dark for dinner. Despite attending Logan Park High School, renowned for its excellent drama programme, Mike “hated being on stage”, but the baking won him over. “Most days I still have an eclair from Arrowtown Bakery,” he grins.
“We travelled all over Australia. I drove the tigers and lions and was the ‘tent boss’ because I was a Kiwi and we love camping.”
He left school at 16 working for Cook Howlison in the parts department and got involved with the Otago Tramping Club in his mid-20s. Then the mountains beckoned and after a short stint in Te Anau he ran away to Australia to join the circus! “We travelled all over Australia. I drove the tigers and lions and was the ‘tent boss’ because I was a Kiwi and we love camping,” he grins. “Perry Bros were real hard circus folk but welcomed me into the family. It was the days of paying through the caravan window. I treasure those days.”
However, after four years of sweltering Aussie heat Mike was longing for his “mother in law’s home knit jerseys”, his then partner’s mother pretty good at those.
Back in Dunedin working at the Town Hall Mike discovered his passion for sound and lighting. “It was quiet one day and I found all this gear out the back. I picked up the lights and started lighting up for symphonies and orchestras. I was self-taught really.”
From there he worked for Christchurch-based Shipleys who sent him to Queenstown 22 years ago.
For some years Mike was branch manager for AWF Labour agency, his phone again going 24/7, with huge demand at the time for construction workers. “It was crazy, dealing with 100 construction workers building the Hilton and Kawarau Village Hotels. That was a $2billion project.” Then in 2007 the GFC (global financial crisis) hit. “I lost 100 staff overnight on that project. We ended up supplying builders for the Bank of Scotland, who took over and project managed it.”
Things were tough for a while as Mike went through the highs and lows of that recession. “For a few years it was hard to find builders, but we had lots of jobs needing staff – 20 or 30 a day.” The biggest challenge was staff not showing up as promised on the day, up to 20% some days.
Then with a garage full of accumulated sound and lighting equipment, Mike realised he could turn his passion into a great business. He’s never looked back. “My phone never stopped ringing!”
He’s frequently done the sound and lighting for free at community charity fundraisers, many for cancer causes, recently a big breast cancer fundraiser at Highlands Motorsport Park. “People only have to ask. I just really like to help in any way I can,” he says.
For years he’s been on hand for Wakatipu High School productions, passing on his skills to the students.
While times are getting tighter, corporate events are still coming and he still does community events every week for a “seriously reduced price”.
“My strategy is to take from the rich and give to the poor like Robin Hood,” Mike grins.
“I’m a DIYer and I love to problem solve. I get my thrills seeing the results in every show. I can’t stay away. I’m addicted to shows!”
Mike enjoying his lifelong passion – motorcycle touring, back in the day
Mike during his younger Perry Bros Circus days touring Australia, this photo taken the day he starred in a Wendy Matthews music video
Mike’s mobile Visual Events work can find him setting up in the back of beyond
Mike making it all happen for a couple’s special day
Arts+Culture
Rocking school students
by Jessica Allen
The rising young musicians of our region are amping up for the regional finals of Smokefreerockquest. This Saturday Queenstown Memorial Centre will be taken over by the phenomenal musical talent coming out of local schools.
For almost 40 years, the competition has toured across the country, with events held in 21 regions, playing host to thousands of young musicians each year. The rules of participation are simple; you must be a school-aged student. Entrants will get to perform their original music onstage with a full set up including lighting, a sound engineer, a projected backdrop and technical support. “It came out of an idea to provide high school music students with an opportunity to take what they were learning on a really professional stage,” Evie Bamford at Smokefreerockquest says.
Each show, from the regional heats all the way to the national finals in Auckland, is a full-blown production with gear provided from the Rock Shop. The competition initially started as a radio station promotion in 1988 that was cancelled after one year. Pete Rainey and Glenn Common, two high school teachers from Christchurch, took it over as they saw the benefits in a platform for students. By 1990 the competition went nationwide, and it’s since helped to develop some great Kiwi bands.
“One of the early winners was a band called Kora,” says Common. “Well, they were called Aunty Beatrice then – they went on to become Kora and some of them are now in LAB, still doing quite a lot nationally. Alien Weaponry are a heavy metal band that sing in Te Reo. They were national winners in 2016 or so, and they’re doing a lot internationally – they’re a big band playing massive festivals.”
On Sunday, 17 May, thirty-six talented young acts took part in the Central Otago Regional Heat. This year’s top 12 bands for our region are:
“At the regional finals, those 12 bands will perform and first and second place – and sometimes also a third place will be awarded – with first and second place going through to the video submission stage. Before the national finals we have the first and second place from all of the regional finalists come together, and they submit a three song video performance,” Bamford says.
This video gets judged twice, and then eight from around Aotearoa will be selected to participate in the national finals. At the regional heat, the top two solo/duo acts that received gear vouchers at the regional heats and have progressed to the video submission stage for a chance to progress to the National Finals are:
1st place: Juno Gerlach - Mt Aspiring College
2nd place: Leila Franklin - Wakatipu High School “The performers here will go on and have great music careers. I think it’s a fantastic opportunity to see them when they’re still in that formative stage – their enthusiasm is high, their skills are remarkable, and it’s a great chance to see what the community has,” says Common.
The The Smokefreerockquest Central Otago Regional Final will take place on at 7pm on Saturday, 13 June at Queenstown Memorial Centre. Tickets will be available on the door and at smokefreerockquest.co.nz
WHS Leila Franklin
JulyHolidayProgramme
6 - 17 July, half day or full day | From $32
Looking for an exciting school holiday programme in Queenstown? Join our July arts holiday programme, designed for tamariki aged 5-12 This creative, multidisciplinary programme inspires creativity through fun, hands-on workshops, inspired by Matariki, the winter season, and the themes behind our current exhibitions
HEAD|LisaWalker
Opens Thursday 25 June, 6:30pm | Free
Lisa Walker ONZM is one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most influential contemporary jewellers Somewhere between a face and an object, these works don’t quite settle This exhibition pulls together a new body of work, presenting Walker’s provocative and deliberate pieces at Te Atamira for the first time
FreeCommunityNights
Tuesdays, 6:30pm or 7pm | Free
Te Atamira offers free Community Nights covering a range of fun topics, from singing, drawing, dance, craft and more Still to come this month we have ‘Break, Rebuild, Reflect,’ a handson workshop at 6:30 on Tuesday 9 June, and ‘Yarn and yarn,’ a community knitting night at 6:30pm on Tuesday 16 June. Please join us!
EmbodiedDrawingWorkshop
Sunday 14 June, 2pm | $30
Artist Chora Carleton invites you to join her for an experimental drawing workshop embodied in response to the ‘Infinite Possibilities’ exhibition Explore how you might describe motion, map trajectories not yet made and respond to the space as you draw it. Open to everyone, this workshop will provoke experimentation and play.
Scan to discover our programmes
Remarkables Park, Dart House, 12 Hawthorne Drive
TeAtamiraWhakatipu | teatamira nz
LWB QUIZ
1. What is the capital of Belgium?
2. What is the name of the longest river in the United States?
3. Which New Zealand city is known as the City of Sails?
4. What is the study of rocks called?
5. What is the smallest planet in the solar system?
6. What is the name of the New Zealand alpine pass connecting Canterbury and the West Coast?
7. What is the national sport of Japan?
8. Which famous wall once divided East and West Berlin?
9. Which New Zealand city is known for the Baldwin Street hill, once recognised as the world’s steepest residential street?
10. Which country invented paper?
For Sale
FOR SALE
NISSAN LAFESTA 2006 FOR SALE. 2-litre petrol engine, 197000kms. 7-seater-massive boot when seats down (great for skis, snowboards, camping gear or sleeping). Airbags, sunroof, tinted windows, powerful heater. $3600-flexible on price. P:0212645227
TRADES & SERVICES
Trades & Services
PRIVATE AIRPORT & CITY TRANSFERS. Skip the taxi queue. Private vehicle, local driver, stress-free every time. Book at www.lakesdelsur.com
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.
NEW TO THE AREA OR got more time on your hands & looking to give back to your community? Altrusa International Qtwn is looking for volunteers just like you to join our women’s charitable & service organisation supporting our local community. Want to know more? Email: president.queenstown@altrusa.org.nz or message us on Facebook.com/AltrusaQueenstown
WSCA – ROOMS FOR HIRE - Spacious, sunny rooms are available for hire to Queenstown Community Groups. The rooms hold up to 90 people, with seated dining for 40. Located on the 1st floor of Malaghan House, 10 Memorial Street, Queenstown with lift access. There are kitchen facilities, toilets, Wi-Fi, media equipment for projection onto large screen plus large screen TV. Contact us on 03 4429214 or info@wsca.org.nz for more details.
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
WHAKATIPU BEEKEEPERS SUPPORTING LOCAL BEEKEEPERS with sharing knowledge, mentoring and maintaining best practice. Most importantly a group of likeminded individuals who love bees. Meeting regularly, for more info or to join us whakatipubeekeepers@gmail.com
EVERYTHING ELSE
Everything Else
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.
WHAKATIPU POPPY TRUST - ANNUAL General Meeting. Thursday, 11 June 2026, 2pm at Todd Walker Boardroom, Five Mile. Enquiries to whakatipupoppytrust@gmail.com
QUEENSTOWN DHARMA CENTRE, 12 LAKE ST
TUE (9 June) @ 6.30pm, ‘Natural Ease’ with Grant Rix SUN (14 June) @ 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
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
jobfix.co.nz
essions of interest f
Expressions of interest now open for:
HVACTechnicians
HVAC Technicians
Electricians Plumbers Laborers
Welco Heating is a locally owned Queenstown business delivering highend residential heating and cooling solutions. We’re now looking to
Welco own deliv end residential solutions. We’re expand our team. We’re offering:
Company vehicle
Flexible working hours
Competitive wage Staff tool account
Tight-knit team culture
Morning coffee & Friday beers
Smiths Craft Beer House requires QUALIFIED DUTY MANAGER
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.
We also have Kitchen roles at all levels.
Please pop up in person or email your CV to Chris@smithscraftbeer.co.nz
Hours to suit you | Weekly pay | Exclusive discount at Barmuda | Earn extra when you Refer a Friend.
Whether you’re looking for short-term work or your next career move, we’re here to help.
Teacher of ESOL (English as a Second Language)
Wakatipu High School Start Date: 20 July 2026 (or by negotiation)
We are seeking an experienced and qualified ESOL Teacher to join our dynamic team. In this role, you will work closely with our Head of Languages and the International & Migrant Student Advisor to create a welcoming, inclusive environment where students thrive.
How to Apply:
Please apply directly through our school careers website: wakatipuhs.schooljobs.nz/Job
Southern Lakes Engineering are looking for a Structural Steel Fabricator/Installer Workshop based in Cromwell. Min 5 years experience. Must have great communication skills, be reliable and organised. Company truck included. Fun small busy team environment with regular social outings.
This is a full-time, permanent position. Applicants for this position should have a NZ drivers’ licence, NZ residency or a valid NZ work visa.
