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12th Jan - 18th Jan
FIRST ON THE STREET
No 783
LAKES WEEKLY BULLETIN
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enquiries@lwb.co.nz
Nothing changes on New Year’s Day, or does it? One thing most of us will be looking forward to is a little more positivity in the world. Unfortunately for 2020, it will not be remembered fondly by the worldwide population. To speculate on 2021 being “better” might be good BBQ conversation but whatever will be will be. There is not much we can do to influence the big global picture. What we can do, is take the changing of the calendar from 2020 to 2021 as the time to make positive changes individually and locally. For me, I would like to see the continuation and growth of the Go Local movement. That must be a highlight of 2020, the realisation that globalisation and mass tourism is not sustainable and cannot be relied on, and it is quite achievable to live a good life with a strong economy by keeping it local in our travel and spending habits. It feels good too, knowing the money you spend is most likely going to be re-spent here in the Wakatipu. As an owner/operator of small businesses in the Wakatipu it has been a humbling experience to feel the love and support for local businesses by local people. We do live in a highly sought after and statistically wealthy part of the country, but we are not all swimming in cash. Far from it. To understand the struggle to make ends meet, and yet still experience the desire to support local is pretty bloody special. We have a lot to be thankful for. At the top of that list are the people sharing this dot on the map. And there are quite a few of us too. More than I expected despite the clear picture of population growth over the last 20 years. Just look at Lakes Hayes Estate, Jack’s Point, Hanley’s Farm, most of Arthurs Point. None of that was housing 20 years ago. When the overseas tourists stopped coming the comparison feeling was 1998 in the shoulder season, before trans-Tasman direct flights. Tumbleweed down Shotover Street etc etc. But there are twice as many “locals” in 2021. Granted, some are part time residents at best but even so, we have proven to have just enough critical mass to support ourselves. Projections have our population doubling again in another 20 years. If that is sustainable within the confines of our outstanding natural landscape is up for debate. However, in the spirit of starting the year on a positive note, let’s not get caught up in counting numbers and instead focus on the quality of those individuals. Good people make for a good community. Happy New Year everyone. Scott Stevens scott@qmg.co.nz
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ALL NEW
HAPPY HOUR DAILY FROM 4PM-6PM Brazz Steakhouse & Bar
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Contact us on: info@brazz.co.nz +64 3 442 4444 www.brazz.co.nz
Beautiful weather on Saturday drew hundreds to the Lakes Hayes A&P show! Stalls, rides, animals and a great crowd all combined for a memorable day.