We can’t get away from it. Catchy, colourful, omnipresent - harder to avoid than Mariah Carey at Christmas time. Supermarket shelves lined with bright beacons of convenience. From necessities to luxuries wrapped in aesthetic, tempting children and adults alike, even seducing us through screens we can’t look away from. Plastic is everywhere.
This Plastic Free July, Sustainable Queenstown wishes to entice you with something brighter and shinier - a better, cleaner future for our community. Choosing better but keeping it real. Tackle one swap at a time and rack small wins in places you already know and go to.
Let’s start with the one that rules them all - a daily ritual for some, or a ‘metime’ treat - the takeaway coffee (or chai, or hot choccy - you do you, boo).
Reusable cup: GOLD STAR. Forgot it again? Cafes like Hustl, Beach Street, and Yonder will loan you an indestructible Chunky cup for a $10 depositmine’s been living in my cupholder for years. Some cafes even offer a discount for BYO, which basically pays for your extra shot. Or go radical: sit down, savour the flat white, admire the latte art, compliment your barista. Good habits tend to snowball. With every cup you keep out of landfill (even the ‘compostable’ ones) your conscience rejoices. Soon there’s always a box or a reusable bag in your car, and your mushrooms are in a reusable mesh produce bag. Yes, a paper bag is recyclable, but it’s still single-use, taking 6 reuses to actually be carbon neutral. ‘Reduce’ and ‘Reuse’ come before ‘Recycle’ for a reason.
We all have our go-to favourite products - we get it. That’s why each week we’re sharing simple swaps on our socials. It’s time to recalibrate your gaze, shake off the convenience autopilot and make the better choice feel like the obvious one. At the cafe, the supermarket, packing lunches, or online shopping for that perfect gift, we’ve got tips to make reducing plastic easy one day at a time.
The best part? Your small wins could actually be big! Scan the QR code below and submit a photo of your plastic-free actions all month long. Each one enters you into the draw for prizes from our generous local sponsors: Kiwi Park, Chunky, Country Lane, Skyline, Shotover Jet, Altitude Brewing, Better by Bike, and more.
So what are you waiting for? Make the swap. Ditch the plastic. We can help. Join 200 million others doing Plastic Free July worldwide, who are proving, one choice at a time, that a better future isn’t just possible. It’s already underway. Be part of it.
Follow @sustainablequeenstown to get started.
Neha Gosalia - Sustainable Queenstown
(Supported by Wastebusters and QLDC’s zero waste district programme)
Good vibes at Queenstown Mardi Gras over the weekend
ON THE APP THIS WEEK
Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) is inviting the community to join conversations about the future of local government.
Mayor John Glover and Councillors will host informal drop-in sessions across Queenstown, Arrowtown and Wānaka in mid-July. These sessions provide an opportunity for residents to learn more about how QLDC could respond to the requirements of the Simplifying Local Government reform programme, ask questions and share their views.
The sessions will take place at:
• Arrowtown Community Centre – Tuesday 14 July, 6.30pm–7.30pm
• Wānaka Community Hub – Wednesday 15 July, 6.30pm–7.30pm
Mayor John Glover said it was important for residents to be involved in the conversations.
“The government plans to abolish regional councils
and wants district councils to amalgamate within regions to form new organisations. Simplification. The drop-in sessions are a chance for you to learn about what we have considered to date and to share your thoughts with us,” said Mayor Glover.
Councils across Aotearoa New Zealand have been given the opportunity to consider future governance arrangements through the Government’s voluntary Head Start pathway, which could see local authorities work together to develop proposals for how local government is organised and delivered in the future. Proposals must be submitted by August 2026.
A region-wide survey was undertaken by the Otago Mayoral Forum over June, seeking views on what is most important to people when it comes to local government reform.
The key issues identified at a regional level related to a loss of identity and financial concerns, however at a regional level more than one third of respondents commented with pro-reform sentiment.
For Queenstown Lakes, any future changes could affect how communities are represented, how decisions are made, how services are delivered, and how councils work together across the wider Otago region.
Some early local options are being developed, in collaboration with Otago local authorities, that could be considered as part of a Head Start proposal. These will be discussed at a public Council workshop on 9 July 2026, on display at each of the sessions and available online at Let’s Talk. A recording of the public workshop will be available on Council’s website and YouTube.
The sessions are open to everyone and no registration is required.
People who cannot attend in person can find information and contribute online at https:// letstalk.qldc.govt.nz/the-future-of-localgovernment
CRIMELINE
Alleged speeding dad nabbed
by Sue Fea
With heavy snow, wet roads and warnings of more overnight freezing causing black ice, Police and are urging school holiday drivers to take extreme caution and obey the rules.
Otago Lakes Area Road Policing Manager Acting Senior Sergeant Dylan Hannah-Jones says it was greatly concerning to have a dad with his family in the car stopped near the Lindis Pass earlier last week for allegedly overtaking multiple vehicles at 150km/hr. “It was a mum, dad and kids in the car,” Hannah-Jones says. “If one single thing had changed or gone wrong in that situation, such as another car pulling out to overtake, a mechanical problem or something else, we could’ve been looking at multiple fatalities,” he says. “In this case the driver got a hefty fine, a 28-day loss of licence and the embarrassment of losing his licence in front of his children.”
There were also calls to the Crown Range after some drivers “decided to simply stop in the middle of the road to put their chains on,” he says. HannahJones says he saw other drivers put chains on the wrong wheels. He’s urging school holiday drivers to put chains on properly on the correct wheels, listen to roading crews there to keep them safe, be patient, courteous, stick to their side of the road, don’t speed, wear their seatbelts and “leave your phone in the boot”.
Spate of car thefts
Three young people are being dealt with by Police Youth Aid after a spate of stolen vehicles around the Queenstown area on the weekend of the 4 - 6 July.
Area Response Manager Senior Sergeant Glenn Wilkinson confirmed three vehicles were stolen, with just two recovered so far.
A Toyota Spade taken from a driveway in Howden Drive, Hanley’s Farm, on Saturday night (4 July) still hasn’t been found, and Wilkinson says it’s unclear yet whether all three vehicle thefts are linked.
The other two cars were stolen overnight Sunday (5 - 6 July) - one from Hallenstein Street, which was recovered on McBride Street, the second then taken from McBride Street.
Wilkinson says about 6pm on Monday a Police patrol saw the car stolen from McBride Street being driven towards Queenstown on the GlenorchyQueenstown Road. “Police attempted to stop the vehicle, but it sped up and didn’t stop,” he says.
They didn’t pursue the car due to the dangerous manner of driving, but located it abandoned a short time later.
Subsequently three young people were located nearby and are being dealt with by Police Youth Aid in relation to their alleged involvement in the stolen vehicles. One youth is also being dealt with over the alleged driving offences and failing to stop for Police.
Late night assault
Two 30-year-old local men have been charged after allegedly assaulting another man, one of them allegedly punching and kicking him in the face causing facial injuries that required hospital treatment at 3am on Friday, 3 July, Constable Amanda Shute says. An initial verbal altercation between the two offenders and the victim in Shotover Street had escalated with one of the men allegedly striking the victim with his crutches.
Shute says one of the two 30-year-olds faces two charges of injuring with intent to injure/ reckless disregard, the other also charged with injuring with intent to injure/ reckless disregard.
Diver dies at Kingston
Police are investigating on behalf of the Coroner after an Invercargill man in his 50s was pulled from the water unresponsive at Kingston Wharf on Saturday morning, 4 July. It’s understood the man had been diving at the time. Otago Lakes Central Police Investigation Manager Detective Senior Sergeant Steve Salton says the matter is with the Coroner to establish the cause of death with Police investigating. The man’s diving equipment will be examined to ensure that wasn’t a factor, he says.
Awaiting blood test after crash
Police are awaiting blood test results after a two-vehicle collision on Arthur’s Point Road at 8pm on Thursday, 2 July, when a vehicle allegedly crossed the centreline, colliding with an oncoming vehicle. Shute says the oncoming driver had attempted to avoid the collision by braking. Nobody was injured.
Drink driving
A 24-year-old local man, who allegedly blew 797mcg, has been charged after Police responded to a call from a member of the public about an intoxicated man in Stanley Street at 9pm on Monday, 6 July.
Motorists urged - beware of black ice!
by Sue Fea
Winter may have hit late and while the snow’s been welcome for the school holidays the district has hit some chilly overnight lows, making for dangerous black ice conditions on our roads.
Police and emergency services have been urging motorists to be extra vigilant and watch their following distances with numerous mostly minor crashes in the Wakatipu during recent weeks, an adjustment after a record warm June across the country.
While there’s a more northerly aspect forecast for the rest of this week raising temperatures a little, the MetService is still warning there will be frosts, just not so severe. Overnight lows will likely get down to -1°C, after consistent -5°C overnight temperatures causing big problems on our roads around the start of the month and last week.
We’re still a long way off the overnight low records for Queenstown though with the lowest overnight July temperature since MetService records began in 1971, still clocking in at a chilly -12.2°C at 9am at Queenstown Airport in 1995.
The daytime high following that reached a mere -4°C, a MetService spokesman says.
FENZ Otago group manager Bobby Lamont says many people don’t realise that the anti-freezing agent (CMA) sprayed onto black ice prone areas of our roads is actually ineffective once temperatures drop to -7°C. Grit is regularly applied to the usual shady spots and bridges, but Lamont says after heavy snow and rain, as the basin experienced last week, people are advised to only travel when absolutely necessary. “If you don’t have to travel stay home.”
Police too are urging school holiday drivers to take extreme caution and obey the rules with plenty of black ice around.
Thankfully there were no injuries in the minor crashes last week – a nose to tail on Hawthorne Drive, a vehicle spinning several times on the Kawarau Falls Bridge and a People Mover sliding off Coronet Peak Road.
However, Otago Lakes Area Road Policing Manager Acting Senior Sergeant Dylan Hannah-Jones says it was greatly concerning to have a dad with his family in the car stopped near the Lindis Pass last week for allegedly overtaking multiple vehicles at 150km/hr. “It was a mum, dad and kids in the car,” Hannah-Jones says. “If one single thing had changed or gone wrong in that situation, such as another car pulling out to overtake, a mechanical problem or something else, we could’ve been looking at multiple fatalities,” he says. “In this case the driver got a hefty fine, a 28-day loss of licence and the embarrassment of losing his licence in front of his children.”
There were also calls to the Crown Range after last week’s big dump when some drivers “decided to simply stop in the middle of the road to put their chains on”, he says. Other drivers put chains on the wrong wheels.
School holiday drivers are being urged to put chains on properly on the correct wheels, listen to roading crews there to keep them safe, be patient, courteous, stick to their side of the road, not speed, wear their seatbelts and “leave their phone in the boot”.
More Than Technology: Supporting Seniors Through Connection and Community COMMUNITY NOTES
In a world where technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, staying connected can feel increasingly challenging, particularly for older members of our community. What may seem simple to some can often become a source of frustration, isolation, or uncertainty for others. Wakatipu Tech Care was founded with a simple purpose: to help seniors feel confident, connected, and supported in an increasingly digital world.
My husband Justin and I started Wakatipu Tech Care because we saw how easily older adults can be left behind as everyday services, communication, and information move online. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to participate fully in modern life, regardless of age or technological ability.
Justin works directly with our clients every day, providing one-on-one technology support and lessons tailored to each person’s needs. He helps with a wide range of technology, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, computers, smart televisions, internet connections, email, online banking, scam awareness, and digital safety. No question is ever too small. Often, it is not just about solving a technical problem, but helping someone build the confidence to use technology independently and stay connected to the people, services, and experiences that matter most.
Last year, Justin’s dedication to helping seniors navigate technology was recognised with a nomination in the Queenstown Business
Chamber’s Good Sort category. While the recognition was greatly appreciated, the greatest reward continues to be helping people feel more confident, connected, and independent.
Alongside the business, I work full time as a nurse and support Wakatipu Tech Care through marketing and administration. Together, we share a passion for supporting the wellbeing of older adults, not only through practical technology assistance but through genuine human connection.
Over the past eight months, we have been fortunate to become involved in several local initiatives. We supported fundraising efforts for the Arrowtown Volunteer Fire Brigade during the Arrowtown Retirement Village Garden Party, which raised more than $14,000. More recently, we had the privilege of treating eight nominated seniors to a special evening at Jenny Mitchell’s concert at Sherwood.
It was a beautiful night filled with music, laughter, friendship, gifts, and connection. Watching complete strangers become companions for an evening was a powerful reminder that inclusion is about far more than technology. It is about belonging. It is about creating opportunities for people to feel valued, seen, and connected to the community around them.
Many older adults face challenges that younger generations often take for granted, from accessing essential online services to staying in touch with family and friends. Through patient, personalised support, we hope to help seniors maintain their independence, build confidence, and remain connected to the people, services, and experiences that matter most to them.
Looking ahead, we are excited to introduce monthly pop up Tech Clinics within local lifestyle and retirement villages. Our first clinic will take place at Arrowtown Lifestyle Village next month. We hope these clinics will provide a welcoming space where seniors can ask questions, receive practical support, and learn at their own pace. If
successful, we would love to expand the initiative to other retirement villages throughout the Queenstown Lakes district.
At its heart, Wakatipu Tech Care is about people. Technology is simply the tool.
We are grateful to be part of a community that values kindness, inclusion, and connection. As we continue to grow, our commitment remains the same: helping older adults feel supported, empowered, and connected in the place they call home.
After all, technology is not just about devices. It is about helping people stay connected to the moments, relationships, and community that matter most.
You can find Wakatipu Tech Care on Facebook, or at wakatiputechcare.com
Jem Underwood, Jenny Mitchel and Justin Underwood
Wakatipu Tech Care Launch at the Good Life ExpoArrowtown Lifestyle Village
HOUSE ELECTRICAL
new builds | renovations | maintenance rob harvey rob@houseelectrical.co.nz 021 115 5637
We serve the Queenstown district including Wānaka, Hāwea, Cromwell, Queenstown, Glenorchy, Kingston and all areas in between (100% NZ Owned) Call
How to advertise
Ph: 03 409 2800
Email: enquiries@qmg.co.nz
Place your ad online: www.lwb.co.nz
Advertising Deadlines
Display Advertising: 12pm Thursday
Situations Vacant: 12pm Friday
Queenstown Media Group PO Box 1546, Queenstown 9300
Happiness House is looking for its next home and they want the community involved in the conversation. Happiness House has been a warm, open door in the Whakatipu for 35 years. Founded by Patricia Bird, who quite literally opened up her home to support people in the community. That home-like warmth is at the heart of everything they do, and it’s exactly what they’re looking to carry into their next chapter. With their lease ending in 2028, they’ve started planning where to go next and they’d love local ideas, knowledge and connections at this evening of kōrero, connection and ideas.
When: Thursday, 16 June, 6pm
Where: Sherwood, 554 Frankton Road, Queenstown
COMMUNITY FOR THE KIDS
Sonya McArthur: Tales of Curiosity and pressed leaves craft
Join the Nature Card Workshop at Frankton and Queenstown Library with Sonya McArthur, author of Tales of Curiosity. Sonya will be doing a short reading from her book, Tales of Curiosity, prior to the craft. Suitable for children aged 5 - 11. Bookings are required –book by emailing or calling the library.
Come along to Te Atamira’s Afterschool Programme led by their education team, where they form a fun environment for creative learning for tamariki (children) aged 5 – 13. Keen to try out the Afterschool Programme before you book for the whole term? Taster sessions are running the first week of the term (21 - 23 July). They provide everything you need and it’s a chance to meet the education team, see what it’s all about and make sure it’s the right fit for your tamariki before committing to the full term. Classes include drawing and painting, clay skills, and a craft studio.
When: From Monday, 20 July, 3.30pm – 5pm
Where: Te Atamira, 12 Hawthorne Drive, Frankton
More events available at WHAT’S ON on the Queenstown App
Download the Queenstown App today
Join Tuihana Ohia for a thought-provoking kōrero on what’s really in our kākahu, our clothes? Within the sustainable fashion space, Tuihana leads workshops and styling sessions that help wāhine reconnect with identity and hauora through mindful, values-based choices. She views fashion as rongoā, a powerful tool for self-expression, healing, and transformation. Grounded in kaupapa Māori values, she is also a trusted navigator of wellbeing and founder of T Kaupapa, known for creating meaningful, lasting impact across organisations, communities, and leadership spaces. As part of Plastic Free July, this session invites us to shift our focus beyond takeaway cups and packaging, and into our wardrobes.
When: Friday, 17 July, 6pm – 8pm
Where: Tātai Manawa, Country Lane, 26 Hansen Road, Frankton
Ben Hurley ‘A New Order’ Comedy Night
Ben Hurley’s reputation as one of Aotearoa’s premier comedians is cemented. Now join him as he takes you on a new journey every night. With a list of topics for the audience to choose from, there is literally a new order every night. How will tonight’s show weave together? Think a choose your own adventure, picka-path book, but with jokes and stories and years of experience doing stand-up. There’s an option for a pre-show one-course, wine-matched dinner, too.
When: Saturday, 18 July, 6.30pm – 8pm
Where: Kinross, 2300 Gibbston Highway, Gibbston
Vibe Games .ai Hackathon
Vibe Games is a fast-paced AI hackathon for people who want to build, test, learn and create with AI. The first-time event is a 10-hour build event hosted at Fluid in Queenstown and supported by Central Lakes Arts Trust, bringing together people from business, technology, design, education and the wider community to solve real-world business and community challenges using AI tools. You do not need to be a developer to take part. Over the day, participants will form small teams, choose a challenge, build a working concept or prototype, and present it back at the end of the event.
When: Saturday, 25 July, 9am – 7pm
Where: Fluid Design, 10 Memorial Street, Queenstown
Ayrburn’s Winter Wonderland Lights
It wouldn’t be a Queenstown winter without Ayrburn’s Winter Wonderland lights, and Ice Rink. Ayrburn’s worldclass Winter Wonderland Lights illuminate the precinct for a month-long alpine escape, open for all guests to enjoy, free of charge. Wander the beautifully lit grounds, warm up by roaring outdoor fires, and soak up the magic of those Otago winter nights. Then, take to the ice rink on The Dell to skate under the lights, before roasting marshmallows over an open fire. Tickets are required for ice-skating, and booking in advance comes highly recommended.
When: Daily until Friday, 31 July
Where: Ayrburn, 1 Ayr Avenue, Arrowtown
Night Ski Party ft. Hot Dub Time Machine
You’re invited to the biggest Night Ski Party of the season, headlined by Hot Dub Time Machine – live and loud at Coronet Peak! Get ready for an unforgettable night under the lights as skiing, snowboarding, and one of the world’s most iconic party DJs collide on the mountain. Expect an epic soundtrack spanning decades of dancefloor favourites as Hot Dub Time Machine takes you on a journey through the greatest hits of all time. From carving turns after dark to dancing on the deck, this is the ultimate alpine party. Music kicks off from 5pm, with supporting acts warming things up before Hot Dub Time Machine takes over the mountain. Entry is free, and everyone is welcome to join the festivities. Want to ski or ride? Simply grab a Night Ski Pass, Superpass, or 3 Peak Season Pass.
When: Wednesday, 29 July, 4pm – 9pm
Where: Coronet Peak Ski Area, Queenstown
HOSPOGUIDE
2 tacos & a beer for $25* *Ts & Cs apply
Stacked Steak Loaded with onion rings & garlic bread for free!
Quiz Night every Wednesday at 7pm! $100 bar tab for winning team. Book your spot info@lokalqt.co.nz
Hangry As has taken over the Rhinos Kitchen – Check out the menu on insta @hangryas_ queenstown
Famous Sunday Roasts!
Limited availability. Book and Quote “ROASTS” to secure yours
Arts+Culture
Big artists, tiny room
by Jessica Allen
Inspired by the spirit of downtown cabaret shows in New York, Paris, and Berlin, the Tiny Room Concert Series combines music and comedic narratives to delight and entertain. Taking place in the intimate setting of Arrowtown’s Blue Door, the Thursday shows feature local performers taking on big artists such as Ozzy Osbourne, Oasis, David Bowie, and Fleetwood Mac.
The shows debuted in 2021 and were an immediate hit with the public as well as with the talented pool of working and part-time musicians in our region. Margaret O’Hanlon is the brains behind the operation – she also dabbles in the shows, too – and was inspired to put them on after noticing a lack of outlets for musicians to do something creative that doesn’t involve a bigger production.
“The concerts are only an hour and you get to weave together material on a common theme,”
O’Hanlon says. “As an audience member, I go to listen to music and too often the performer is tucked away in some corner ignoring everyone while everyone ignores them. For the performer it is the challenge of interacting with the audience and finding something captivating to say.”
O’Hanlon says that she also loves to laugh, so mixing comedy with music seemed like a natural idea. The small size of the Blue Door inspired her to pull together something more intimate.
“The idea was that you either have your concert before dinner or after dinner, which is why the shows are 6.30 – 7.30 and 8.30 – 9.30.”
"It was always meant to be a very feel-good experience. Thought provoking at times, but certainly not a downer."
Right from the beginning O’Hanlon approached the performing arts community and asked if they wanted to participate. The idea was that the artists would put together an hour long show that would be based around a particular musical icon or genre and pepper it with comedy.
“It was always meant to be a very feel-good experience. Thought provoking at times, but certainly not a ‘downer’. I always wanted that blend of comedy and music because that’s where my background lies.”
O’Hanlon credits part of the success of the series to her consistency – right from the get-go she insisted on the programme running for a minimum of three months – enough time for people to get around to seeing the shows and enjoying them, and musicians to get involved. In the beginning she did have to
remind patrons to be quiet and pay attention during the shows.
“We got a lot of backlash from people. We got people pissed off that we had the audacity to ask them to not speak. I always say to people that it’s crazy that there’s a lack of consideration given to a live performer that you wouldn’t dare not give to a movie.”
Three years on and the shows are more popular than ever, with performers and audiences alike having a great time. People understand the concept now and O’Hanlon is thrilled they’re so into it. The shows are unique to Queenstown – and New Zealand – with performers excited to share something different with the audience.
“The other thing that it’s evolved into is that you have full bands, it’s not just somebody standing up there in front of a mic with a backing track. It’s a collaborative experience – a true underground club experience, if you will, and that was not necessarily my total doing, that was the local music community, where people started to really get into it and really mastering it,” O’Hanlon says.
You can head to the Humanitix page to see upcoming shows and grab tickets at collections. humanitix.com/tiny-room-concerts or sign up for O’Hanlon’s Whirlwind newsletter at whirlwindnz.com to stay up-to-date with the shows.
Charlotte Graf - “Gold Dust Woman” (Martin Roy Guy: Drums, Martin Rylev: Bass)
Margaret O’Hanlon - “Where Did Our Love Go?”
(With Nigel Hirst: Sax, and Ricci Pereaux: Guitar)
Harriet McDonald - “I Want You Back”
Marty Newell - “What’s The Story?”
Local government is changing…
…and we want to hear from you. Everyone welcome at informal drop-in sessions with the Mayor and Councillors to discuss the future governance of our district, potential amalgamation options, and what matters most to you: 14 July, 6.30–7.30pm; Arrowtown Community Centre 16 July, 6.30–7.30pm; Remarkables Primary School
Dog rego fees due
Dog registration requests have gone out to all ‘pooch parents’ this month. You can pay online at www.qldc.govt.nz/payments and update relevant information at www.qldc.govt.nz/update-dog-details
Snow chains: new rules this winter
Drivers who don’t fit chains on Council managed roads when required may now face a $750 fine, with Police responsible for issuing infringements. Winter conditions can change quickly so please carry chains, know how to use them, and follow any signs or direction from Police, ski field teams and QLDC. Sign up for a daily email on road conditions at www.qldc.govt.nz/winter-road-reports
Election info for migrants
Learn about your civic rights as migrants at ‘Your Voice, Your Vote’ – a community conversation organised by Latinos for New Zealand Charitable Trust. Find out more about November’s general election, and meet local MP Joseph Mooney. Friday 31 July, 6.00-7.30pm at Queenstown Events Centre, Frankton. All welcome! Free entry – no registration required. Passionate about arts and culture?
QLDC is seeking community members to join its Creative Communities Scheme Assessment Committee. You’ll help decide how funding is allocated to support diverse creative projects across the district. Training and expenses covered. Find out more and apply by 31 July via email to jan.maxwell@qldc.govt.nz
Dispose of hot ashes safely
Hot ashes can start fires in bins, trucks and landfills even days after. Always empty ashes into a metal bin, douse with water, and leave for five days before putting them in your red rubbish bin. More tips at www.qldc.govt.nz/services/rubbish-recycling
Calling local creatives
QLDC and Three Lakes Cultural Trust have opened expressions of interest for this year’s Creative Spaces project. It matches local artists and performers with unexpected venues across the district in November. Find out more and apply by 7 August at www.threelakesculturaltrust.co.nz
Only flush the three Ps
Rags, nappies and wet wipes (even if it says they’re flushable/ biodegradable) will block our pipes and pump stations, damage infrastructure and cause leaks into our waterways. Only flush the 3Ps – pee, poo and paper – down the loo!
www.qldc.govt.nz
Te Pou Whakawhirinaki o Aotearoa
Is a cheap car to get you up the mountain worth it?
Everyone loves a bargain, especially in Queenstown where a reliable car is almost a necessity and there’s plenty of other things you would rather spend your money on! Our advice, before you hand over your hard-earned cash, take time to make sure your bargain isn’t a very expensive lesson.
Recently, we helped a client who bought a car privately from a” friend” who was “leaving the country.” Everything was great until a finance company knocked on the door demanding $7,000 still owed on the vehicle by the previous owner and threatening to repossess the car if the money was not paid, yes, they can do that!
The reality is that buying privately o ers far fewer protections than buying from a registered dealer. Once you’ve handed over the money, if something goes wrong, a little homework beforehand can save you a lot of heartache later.
Before buying a car privately:
• Check if there is money owing on the vehicle. A quick $20 search on sites like CarJam.co.nz, can reveal if the car has outstanding finance.
• Get the seller’s full contact details before you pay. If something goes wrong, it may help
• Have the car inspected by a trusted mechanic before you pay.
• Research the value of the vehicle. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
• Complete the change of ownership immediately.
Don’t Skip the Insurance!
If there’s one piece of advice we can’t stress enough, at the very least, have third-party insurance.
Winter roads, black ice and busy ski tra ic can make driving around Queenstown unpredictable. If you accidentally hit another vehicle and the crash is your fault, you could be personally responsible for paying for the replacement of the vehicle you hit. We’ve seen clients left owing tens of thousands of dollars simply because they didn’t have insurance.
Remember, a bargain isn’t a bargain if it ends up costing you more than you expected. Do your homework first and get some insurance before you hit the road.
Free, confidential, independent information and advice
CAB Queenstown 44 Stanley Street
Open Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:30pm
www.cab.org.nz
0800 367222 | 03 442 6799
Friday, 9.30am to 4.30pm
by Sue Fea
My Life story
FRASER SKINNER
Events man
One of New Zealand’s leading Queenstown skiers in the 1970s, Fraser Skinner soon discovered a niche for organising events, from his Winter Classic Ski Race and Winter Festival Mardi Gras to that first hairy, fishnet-clad stocking emerging from the stretch limo in the inaugural 70’s Drag Race.
All of these would become iconic events – winter highlights, two of which Fraser founded and ran.
Flagging an Otago University law degree to pursue a penchant for piste, Dunedin-raised Fraser arrived in Queenstown in 1971 working by night and playing by day as he studied for his ski instructor’s exams.
“I’d worked here during my uni holidays then Packer’s Arms co-owner Alastair Watson offered me a job as barbecue chef,” he says.
Fraser skied until 4pm, working his way up to maître d’-cum-bartender-cum-waiter, greeting wealthy American tourists as they arrived at the door.
“Our American bartender Dave Cooper was in NZ illegally. He gave me his special cocktail recipe for a Bacardi contest and we got third.” Fraser then adapted the recipe, entered it in the NZ Bartender of the Year Awards, with Dave’s blessing, and won a trip to the UK.
Summers were also spent working for Dale Gardiner at Dane’s Safaris.
“We’d take zebra-striped Land Rovers up the Skippers-Branches Road, boiling the billy, gold panning and sightseeing,” Fraser says. Dale began rafting trips bringing in American boatman Larry Jacobson to train his guides.
Other summers Fraser headed overseas to ski, later as part of the first NZ Demo Ski Team.
Ex-Swiss B Team skier Werner Hanni from Coronet Peak gathered an informal NZ team of ski racers for a European ski camp, inviting Fraser to join the team.
That led to some ski racing success and ultimately top placings at NZ Masters races, including a national win at Cardrona.
While working his way up to examiner through the ski instructor’s ranks Fraser founded the popular Winter Classic – a weekly fun ski race series for locals between businesses. “I walked around the motels seeking sponsors who provided baguettes, cheese and wine.”
People took time off work to compete. “That first year we had a huge party with Kipa Royal and his band just below halfway.”
“We’d take zebra-striped Land Rovers up the Skippers-Branches Road, boiling the billy, gold panning and sightseeing.”
In the late 70s Fraser and key local tourism leaders like Bill Tapley, Clive Geddes and Trevor Gamble took over the Winter Festival from founder Peter Doyle. Fraser recalls that first ever Drag Race. “We set up in Earnslaw Park, me commentating, then played a sound tape of cars revving and people thought it was a car race. A stretch limo pulled up at the park with that first fishnet stockingclad leg appearing and the crowd erupted.” It was the beginning of a 10-year association with the festival.
By the late 1970s Fraser was co-Ski School director with legendary American ‘Weems’ Westfeldt, then in 1980 he was invited, with Geoff Hunt, by Ironman King Robin Judkins to race in the Alpine Ironman, the foundation of the Coast to Coast.
Around that time Fraser and friends teamed up with helicopter legend Don Spary forming Alpine Heliskiing before Fraser ran Skyline Restaurant, then became Skyline marketing manager. John Darby then invited him to run Jagwar Holdings’ Queenstown operations in 1986. “They built Holiday Inn and Contiki Lodge. That was going to be my big break managing for them around the South Island then the 1987 sharemarket crash happened, and their parent company blew apart.”
Fraser took over Southern Lakes Heliski from the company and then in 1995 became director of the then Queenstown Promotion Board, which he’d helped establish in the mid-1980s.
He was among big local tourism players who’d combined forming the Queenstown Top 5 marketing group. “We did a lot of promotional trips. Walter Peak Tours’ Clive (Geddes) and I were being interviewed in a Hobart radio studio when the announcer turned to Clive and said, ‘Now, Mr Peak, or can I call you, Walter?’” Fraser chuckles.
The 90s were Fraser’s highlight years, co-founding the highly visible 50K of Coronet international ski race fundraising event for NZ’s Cure Kids with Wayne Café, Jeff Turner and Graham Smolenski. They’d seen similar success taking a NZ team to Aspen’s 24-hour downhill race.
“Wayne was the driver.”
It became the Compaq 50K and over five years raised $1m, ski racers arriving from as far as Norway, the money establishing the Chair of Paediatric Genetics at Otago University.
“Very brave kids suffering everything from cystic fibrosis to cancer had some special time away from their awful lives, matched with teams and treated like stars by Queenstown operators. That was a special time in my life.”
Fraser’s been heavily involved in the Wakatipu Ski Club, president for seven years during the construction of the new club hut on Coronet Peak on DOC land that Don Spary negotiated. He’s sat on the NZ Ski Association and provided alpine racing commentary during the Winter Games.
Cricket is Fraser’s other passion, an Otago trustee on Vets Cricket NZ, a NZ Masters rep player also, and now patron of the Millbrook Cricket Club. Mostly retired in Manapouri, Fraser now gives his time to a conservation trust protecting two kiwi-populated islands on Lake Manapouri and spending time with his daughters and grandchildren in Arrowtown.
Fraser with the Over 60s Otago Cricket Team
Fraser, thrid from left, as part of the Air New Zealand Interski Team - 1978
From left, Wayne Cafe, Sarah Skinner, Fraser Skinner, Rachel Turner, (unidentified) and Jeff Turner at the 24 Hours of Aspen event
Fraser enjoying one of his Manapouri passions, helping protect kiwis
LWB QUIZ
1. What is the name of the largest rainforest in the world?
2. Who invented the telephone?
3. Which country is home to the city of Marrakech?
4. Which New Zealand city is known as the Edinburgh of the South?
5. What is the main ingredient in hummus?
6. Which country is famous for the Great Wall?
7. Which animal is the largest land animal on Earth?
8. Which New Zealand region is famous for the Kaikōura mountain range and marine wildlife?
9. What is the name of the world’s longest river?
10. Which country is known as the Land of a Thousand Lakes?
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
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
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
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
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.
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.
Lost & Found
LOST & FOUND
UNCLAIMED ITEMS SITTING AT THE Police Station, at 11 Camp Street, this week include:
- GO PRO, LEFT AT the library
- JASMINE LEE – WALLET
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
QUEENSTOWN DHARMA CENTRE, 12 LAKE ST
TUE (14 July) @ 6.30pm,Group Sit
SUN (19 July) @ 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
DUTY MANAGER WANTED
• Must have a valid Duty Managers Certificate
• Pay starting at $28 an hour
• 35 - 40 hours a week
• No late nights
Drop off your CV in person or e-mail us at bcb@outlook.co.nz
Civil Engineer / Project Manager
Double Cone is seeking a capable and proactive Civil Engineer / Project Manager to join our team and help deliver civil infrastructure and subdivision projects across Queenstown and Wānaka.
The role will involve a mix of contract administration, site coordination, construction delivery, and project management from commencement through to completion.
You will work closely with contractors, councils, consultants, and clients to ensure projects are delivered to a high standard, on program, and within budget. For a detailed job description, or to apply, please send your CV to jay@doublecone.nz
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
Join the team at Paper Plus Queenstown Airport
We’re looking for a friendly, reliable and motivated person to join our busy team at Paper Plus Queenstown Airport.
We are seeking hospitality professionals who value a high-performing culture, flexible working arrangements, work-life balance and a caring work environment to join our team in the following roles:
• Hotel Service Staff (All Rounder)
Benefits and Rewards
• Starting rate $27.00/hour-$29.75/hour
• Flexible Work Options available
Odelay is looking to find a FULL TIME CHEF at our Frankton cafe. Experience a must. Hours are flexible. Immediate start.
Please contact Brad on 0277688023 or email odelaycafe@yahoo.co.nz Or drop a CV in to the cafe.
Retail experience is a bonus, but it’s not essential. What matters most is a positive attitude, a willingness to learn, and being able to work well in a fast-paced team environment. This role is five days per week
If you enjoy working with people, take pride in doing a great job, and are looking to be part of a supportive team, we’d love to hear from you.
Please send your CV to: queenstownairport@paperplus.co.nz
• Heavily Discounted Food and Beverage
• Well-being initiatives
• IHG Room Discounts at over 6,000 hotels worldwide!
When you're a part of IHG, you're more than your job title. And that's what we love – the individual talents, interests and dreams that make you who you are.
Please email your resume at manager@holidayinnqueenstown.co.nz
Casual Property Host Inspector
Join the team at Alloggio, one of Queenstown's leading holiday home management companies.
We are seeking a reliable and detail-oriented property Host Inspector to help ensure our properties are beautifully presented and guest-ready. The role includes:
• Conducting pre and post-stay property inspections
• Ensuring properties meet presentation standards
• Reporting maintenance and housekeeping issues
• Managing amenities and guest supplies
About you:
• Excellent attention to detail
• Friendly and professional attitude
• Full driver's licence required
• Experience in hospitality, property or accommodation is advantageous This is a casual position, with hours varying based on occupancy levels and operational requirements, including weekends.
