LWB_Issue_884_Online

Recipe for potential disaster

“Poppa

noise?”

“I don’t know George (my four-year-old grandson) - let’s have a look.” Round the corner of the house, we see smoke and flames about 50 metres away. The noise is the crackle of the burning, dry, long grass, shrubs and small trees, all along the edges of the local road.

Shit!! Chaos ensues. What to do? Ring the firies. They already know and are on the way. Now what? Check the neighbours are OK. Wait for the firies to arrive and in the meantime – panic! Rush around doing nothing useful or helpful.

Firies arrive. They know what to do. But, what’s that? Head firie asks if we have any water. They have run out - what?? Then another noise. The sound of chopper, bringing a monsoon bucket. Calm down, all will be well.

Breathe deeply. Breathe again. Forty-five minutes and it’s all over. No one hurt, no buildings damaged, but the flames got within a few metres of a neighbour’s home. We think what might have been, as we enjoy a cold one. I have been around a few years and unfortunately have experienced a number of unplanned fires. A couch burned at Uni. A bush fire at Peel Forest which started in a road side grass fire. A power substation fire in Queenstown that spread to long road side grass. A farmer’s burn off that got out of control following a change of wind direction. A farmer’s stubble fire. A fire on an elevated isolated hill side in outer Queenstown. A friend of mine killed during his farm burn off when he got isolated after a wind direction change.

On all those occasions, there was no collective review of the event, no feedback collected from those involved, no feedback from the firies. No plans developed with the communities to help them when they face a similar situation.

We could do better. Here in Queenstown we get very dry conditions. Demand for water stretches our resources. In lots of places, there’s no mains water. We get changes in wind direction frequently. And we are a growing population.

All this means the chances of an unplanned fire in the community grow every year. We’ve had three at least in the past few months. Unplanned, unexplained, dangerous.

So, there needs to be a better process to plan for these unplanned events. This should involve the local and regional councils, FENZ, and lots of training for the community. It should involve the residential planning process. It should detail budgets, responsibilities and outline penalties and costs. And it should be regularly reviewed.

Because it shouldn’t be all on the firies. They are swift, considered, professional, experienced, successful, and a huge benefit to the community. We should all ensure they are rewarded, appreciated, supported, and able to function at the best possible level. Thank you firies.

Robin Martin

– what’s that

Hobby horsing around was a popular addition to Saturday’s 107th Lake Hayes A&P Show. Scores of children and representatives of Queenstown’s emergency services took to the field, negotiating a short course. It wasn’t a race, however, with points instead awarded for style and pizzazz. Read more on pXX. Photo: Jonny James

Nationwide CO2 shortage affects Otago’s brewing industry

By Jessica Allen

New Zealand has been dealing with supply issues for carbon dioxide (CO2) for quite some time now, but this has all started to come to a head over the past two weeks as the Kapuni liquid carbon dioxide processing plant has temporarily closed down. CO2 has many different uses, namely within the medical industry, wastewater industry (both of which have been prioritised as CO2 comes into the country), and in the production of beer and other beverages. Many Otago businesses are starting to be affected by this shortage, which is set to continue for an unknown amount of time.

Pressure has been put on the CO2 industry since the closure of the Marsden Point refinery earlier in 2022. While some suppliers of CO2 do import the chemical compound into the country from Australia and beyond, many rely on the Kapuni plant and some of those that don’t are reporting struggling with shipping delays.

Simon Ross at Rhyme x Reason Brewery in Wanaka has the lucky job of Administrator/Chief Taster. The ongoing shortage has been a pain for the brewery and as a result they’ve had to spend a lot more time on the phones ensuring they’re going to get the product they need. While the issue hasn’t stopped production altogether, it’s piqued the breweries interest in alternative ways of working.

“We’re looking at potentially using nitrogen for part of the processes that don’t 100% require CO2. A lot of the reason CO2 gets used is to purge oxygen out of the tank because craft beer is really sensitive to oxygen, and we’re really keen on making good quality beer. If we switch to nitrogen we can get away with using that for things like purging tanks and cleaning kegs, which should be able to at least reduce our reliance on the CO2 supply,” says Simon.

Geoff Collie is the Course Lead at Central Otago Polytechnic, teaching brewing. Geoff has been involved with brewing operations management for more than 25 years and has worked with Speight’s Brewery and Emerson’s in the past. At the moment the polytech isn’t having huge issues with the CO2 supply, but Geoff does, however, believe that industry practices need to change to become more sustainable and to avoid issues in the future.

“If we can’t purchase CO2, we won’t be able to continue to produce beer. In many respects, burning natural gas to produce CO2 to supply the industry seems to be a crazy thing to be doing anyway, given the oversupply of CO2 on the planet at the moment. Breweries can have equipment in place that can recover carbon dioxide off the top of their fermentations that liquefy the gas for reuse. A lot of them are actually self-sufficient and don’t need to purchase carbon dioxide. Smaller breweries can’t always afford to do this. Having said that, there are things that small breweries can do to reduce their CO2 consumption and that’s something I’m starting to think about here as well,” says Geoff.

Lakes Weekly Bulletin spoke to several breweries both on and off the record, and heard the same key messages echoed – that there is a shortage of bottles for CO2, that the current brewing process isn’t sustainable, and that the full scale of the issue seems very strange to them, but something needs to change.

Another Otago brewer that wished to remain anonymous says “Up until this point it has been an inconvenience, at least on my level. We’ve had a few obstacles but we’ve been able to overcome those with a slightly restructured plan and by creating some efficiencies. We’re currently exploring ways to better utilise the resources we have and we’re also investigating new technologies, whether that’s modifying our existing practices or creating new ones that would allow us to work with a significantly lower reliance on CO2. The reuse of CO2, I believe, is quite a desirable thing from an environmental point of view.”

While the timeframe of the CO2 shortage and the level it may reach is uncertain, it’s positive to see the resilience of local businesses and that they’re willing to look into alternative methods. If alternative measures are brought in, breweries will be supporting Aotearoa’s mission to reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

Image supplied: Rhyme x Reason

COMMUNITY NOTES

The bikes are back in town

by Jessica Allen

From the end of this week the Queenstown Bike Festival will take over town for ten days. Each day is jam-packed with biking events for all skills and ages, and events include racing, jump jams, a photography competition, and a variety of unique activities. The location of the events will be scattered around Queenstown, and include Coronet Peak, Skyline and Cardrona.

The aim of the festival is to bring riders and spectators to Tāhuna, and increase the awareness of the network of trails and mountain bike locations that we offer. The festival will start with a bang with the first scheduled event, the Peak Vert Heli Bike – this fundraiser will have participants riding 1100 vertical metres from the top of Coronet Peak to the bottom of Skippers Canyon before getting helicoptered back to the top. Some other unusual events on the schedule include the Freestyle Bike Bungy, the 16” Pub Champs at Cargo, and the Lake Jump and Log Ride.

“They’ll be an opening party at the Kawarau Bridge Bungee. We’re doing a bungee jump ramp – you’re jumping off the bridge, attached to a bungee cord and trying to do a freestyle jump; a trick. Your bike’s connected to you as well – it’s not going to end up in the river.

“We’re also doing a 16” Pub Champs – it’s grownups racing around a bit of a track set up in the garden of Cargo’s Arthurs Point on a 16inch kids’ bike. Very lighthearted, but it’s been done years prior when the Bike Fest used to happen and it’s quite a hit – just having a beer and watching your mates race on a kids’ bike,” says one of the event organisers, Emmerson Wilken.

One of the events that is important to the festival in 2023 is the Slopestyle in the Mini Dream area at Wynyard Bike Park. This year, they’ve applied to the Freeride Mountain Bike Association (FMBA) – the world governing body for the sport of freeride mountain biking to have separate categories for female and male riders, something which hasn’t happened often in the past. The FMBA sanctions events that are part of the FMB World Tour in four different categories, including slopestyle, and determines the annual World Champion.

“We’re actually having a specific male and specific female category, which is the first time it’s ever happened in New Zealand and probably only the third time internationally, where there’s been a specific women’s class in slopestyle. And why we’ve done that is we’ve actually got so many good female riders in this class that already base themselves in Queenstown – the sport is growing like crazy. The female progression in mountain biking is going through the roof at the moment, so we’re definitely quite excited to be hosting that event.”

The festival will wrap up with the annual McGazza Fest – a weekend in memory of local mountain biking legend Kelly McGarry, which has been running for several years. He was a good mate to many in the mountain biking community and the weekend includes a chainless race, a children’s coaching session, a jump jam and a memorial ride.

Emmerson also wants to thank the community for making this happen, “Between businesses supporting, giving us a venue to use, or coming along with prizes, money, or sponsorship, and the volunteers – a big part of it is those people who make it happen.”

Queenstown Bike Festival will run from Friday 20 – Sun 29 January at various locations. There’s still spots available for volunteers to help out, too. For more information on how to volunteer or the schedule of events, head to queenstownbikefestival.co.nz

Entertainment line-up confirmed for Roam the Valley Wine & Food Festival

Country-pop music sensation Jackie Bristow and renowned jazz entertainers Nairobi Trio will headline this month’s entertainment lineup for the inaugural Roam the Valley Wine & Food Festival.

Roam the Valley Wine & Food Festival takes place on January 28 at Cargo Cellar Door in Gibbston and is part of Roam Central – a four-day celebration of Central Otago’s wine and food – taking place across the region from January 26-29.

Bristow, who now Nashville-based is in New Zealand over the summer period, is an award-winning singer-songwriter. Nairobi Trio is regarded as New Zealand’s favourite jazz entertainers, having toured internationally and performing at major festivals in the UK, Europe, Australia and Asia. Also in the line-up is Invercargill band Little Green Men, and saxophoneDJ duo SaxyLady and The Postman (AKA well-known locals Sarah Lyttle and Sean Caird).

Tickets to Roam the Valley Wine & Food Festival are $49 (plus booking fee) via Eventbrite, Transport is available from Queenstown, Alexandra, Cromwell and Wanaka.

Community News

Twin Rivers Bike Trail detours

A variety of detours will be in place on the Twin Rivers Trail south of Remarkables Park through to the Old Shotover Bridge between Monday 16 January and Friday 20 January, to allow for investigative work to be completed near a few sections of the track. Closed areas of the Twin Rivers Trail will be open in the evenings to help minimise disruption. Detour signage will be in place throughout the closure.

Road Updates

It’s extremely busy on the roads at the peak traveling periods especially moving between Fernhill/Sunshine Bay and the town centre. This has been caused in part by work starting back up to install new underground services for the Lakeview development, which requires the closure of Lake Street to general traffic over January.

Roading impacts that have been reinstated:

• Brunswick St has Stop/Go traffic management in place Monday to Friday 7:30am to 5:30pm until March 2023

•Gorge Rd/Shotover St is CLOSED between Weaver St and Stanley St

• Lake St has Restricted/Resident Access only between Man St and Beach St

• Man St has capacity reduction in place (shoulder closure) between Hay St and Thompson St

Plus from 23 Jan

•Brecon St will have Restricted/Resident Access only from Man St

•Cemetery Rd will be CLOSED at the intersection with Brecon St

•Isle St will be CLOSED on the north and south sides of Brecon St

•Isle St will have Restricted/Resident Access only between Hay St and Brecon St until May 2023

For maps and the latest scan the QR code

Water Restrictions in place

Water restrictions for the district have been to conserve water as much as possible. Water alert level 1 restrictions take place with immediate effect. These require residents and visitors to:

•Keep hand-held hosing to a minimum at all times

• Only use irrigation sprinklers between midnight and 6am when general demand is at its lowest.

By taking a few simple steps now everyone can help ensure that the network remains in good shape, especially with the hot weather forecast to stick around. To read more, scan the QR code.

Fire and fireworks bans in place

Fire and Emergency has declared a prohibited fire season and prohibition on fireworks for Otago’s, Lakes and Central Zones from Thursday 12 January, until further notice.

That means a total ban on outdoor fires, and all previously granted fire permits are suspended. This includes Queenstown, Wanaka and lakes, Alexandra, Clyde and Cromwell.

Some areas of Lakes and Central are experiencing Very High to Extreme fire danger levels and it will only take one spark to generate a devastating wildfire. There is not much rain in the forecast for the foreseeable future meaning the rest of Otago will dry out quickly.

• Health Monitoring – on site • Pre-employment health assessments • Drug testing, we have a mobile unit • Respirator / P95 mask Fit Testing • Workplace Healthy Heart, Cardiac Risk Assessment, programme • Ergonomic Assessments

HEALTH AND SAFETY PLANS and AUDITS

QUEENSTOWN FIRST AID

NZQA unit standards 6400, 6401, 6402

Events sector pulls out the stops

By Paul Taylor

Saturday’s Lake Hayes A&P Show is proof that the sun is shining on Queenstown’s events sector again.

An estimated 4500 people flooded into the Lake Hayes showgrounds for the 107th show, which featured a grand parade, equestrian events, sheep, cake baking, produce and home craft competitions, trade stalls, children’s entertainment, fairground rides, lots of food and ice cream, and the much-loved Topp Twins.

The 2021 show was cancelled due to Covid restrictions, with the decision taken just days before the traffic light system came into effect.

“It was a really difficult decision but there was a huge amount of uncertainty at the time,” says committee secretary Rachel Norris.

“The rules were ambiguous and unclear how events could or would operate. We were potentially having to fence the entire site, so decided to cancel before we incurred costs were couldn’t recoup.”

It was another hit for the community after a tough couple of years, but the future is now looking rosier for all.

“It’s so good to be back and we’re tracking to get between four and five thousand attendees, which is what we normally get,” Norris says on the day.

Dames Lynda and Jools Topp were a big draw as always, while families from nearby communities were as keen to turn out as the farming and equestrian set.

“That’s the beauty of it and a reason why it has endured, it’s a real community event,” Norris says.

“The region has evolved from being a farming-led community, there are fewer farmers, but you can see the value and importance for everyone who attends - you might bump into some you haven’t seen for six months, have a bit of a catch up, and just enjoy being where we live.”

Dozens of Queenstown events have dusted off the covers in 2022 and early 2023 to make a return from the pandemic years - everything from the Queenstown Marathon and the NYE fireworks, to the upcoming Queenstown Bike Festival, McGazza Fest, the Gibbston Valley Concert, Wānaka A&P Show, and the NZ Golf Open.

Event organiser Craig Gallagher, of Summit Events, is the man behind the scenes at many of the region’s events, and also co-owns The Motatapu.

“We’ve been flat out, this is my first day off since Christmas,” Gallagher says last week.

“Compared to last summer, it’s been night and day. In Wānaka, we were handing out the road-closure notifications to shops, and, despite that, people were jumping for joy that the fireworks were back.

“There was a big family atmosphere at all the NYE events, everyone is in good spirits. And there’s so much coming up, the list of events is endless.”

Gallagher is looking forward to this year’s Motatapu. He’s worked the event

for 15 years, but it’s been cancelled both years since he bought it with coowner Gemma Peskett.

“We’ve had great support from everyone all the way through those cancellations, with the athletes rolling over to the next year. It’s looking like a sell-out field, so will be great to finally deliver it.”

But staffing is proving a challenge for the sector, he says, especially as it relies on some of the hospo and tourism sector workers.

“I’ve had a 50% no-show for bar staff at one event, so down from 50 expected to 25. Some are coming down with Covid, or sickness, others are just burned out.”

The events sector was recognised as a key economic driver for the region through Covid-19, with Government funding provided through the Major Events Fund, the $50 million Regional Events Fund, and $10m Domestic Events Fund, to stimulate travel and domestic tourism, when lockdown rules permitted.

The corporate events sector, especially conference and incentives, is also pumping.

QT Event Collective owner Sarah Dunan-Hale says 2022 was extremely busy, especially the last quarter.

“It was a bit of an anomaly year,” she says. “The opening of the borders in July allowed the delivery of many international events that had been postponed previously, along with domestic events that had been postponed.

“It also provided confidence in international companies to consider to Queenstown for their future corporate events, so the number of enquiries has increased dramatically. We feel like 2023 will be the start of returning to ‘normal’ pre-Covid levels.”

Photo: Jonny James

Photo: Jonny James

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For more info contact: Catherine Mercer: cat@qmg.co.nz or 027 777 2785 Kylee Evans: kylee@qmg.co.nz or 021 044 2968

IN BRIEF

Rescue goes tragically wrong

A Wānaka father died while trying to save his son from strong currents at the mouth of the Rees River in Glenorchy on Friday afternoon, 13 January. News website Stuff has identified the man as Linkin Kisling, 48, who had entered the water where the river meets Lake Wakatipu after his 10-year-old son was swept away. The boy was rescued by a member of the public but Mr Kisling did not surface. Emergency services were called about 3pm but a huge search effort involving boats and two helicopters couldn’t find him. The Police National Dive Squad arrived on Saturday morning and by 3pm had found his body, on the lakebed about 50 metres from the river mouth, reports Stuff. “Our thoughts are with the man’s whānau and loved ones at this difficult time,” a police spokesperson said. Officers also acknowledged members of the public who provided assistance to the man’s family on Friday as the incident unfolded. The death will be referred to the Coroner.

Your recycling landfilled

Nearly five tonnes of unprocessed Queenstown recycling was sent to landfill last Wednesday. Council contractor Waste Management took the decision after storage of the material became “untenable”, due to staff shortages, recyclable market challenges and the summer peak.

QLDC Solid Waste Contracts Manager Laura Gledhill says the council’s since installed open-top bins and a temporary bunker to increase storage space at the Frankton Transfer Station. “Waste Management is also exploring how operational hours could be extended as well as options to send material to alternative processing facilities outside our district,” she says. A council audit last winter showed 93% of the 1,136 mixed recycling bins checked had perfect or near-perfect recycling, a massive help to the Materials Recovery Facility team who largely hand-sort the district’s mixed recycling. Transfer stations in Frankton and Wānaka remain open to the public between 8am-5pm six days a week. The temporary closure on Sundays, announced in November, was recently extended to 29 January.

Joy for Zoi

Olympic star Zoi Sadowski-Synnott has landed on the podium in her first major event back since she dominated the snowboarding competition scene last season. The Wānaka 21-year-old took second place in the Big Air World Cup in Kreischberg, Austria, overnight Sunday, 15 January. She won an Olympic silver medal in the same comp at Beijing 2022, along with gold in the slopestyle. “It was super sick to be back in the bib, I’m stoked to be back competing,” she says. “My last competition was the Winter Olympics, so to end up on the podium tonight at my first comp back is awesome.” Zoi landed a highly technical switch backside 1260 with a weddle grab in her second run, after a big crash on her first, scoring a huge 97.50. Tom Willmott, Snow Sports NZ Park & Pipe Head Coach, says it was the best trick in the comp. “Landing this in competition after achieving it in training at Cardrona Alpine Resort back in September is a momentous occasion that has taken a whole lot of focus and dedication,” he says. “Having this new trick in Zoi’s arsenal is a massive asset for future events.” She’s pictured on the podium, left, with winner Anna Gasser (AUT) and Kokomo Murase (JPN) in third.

Traffic jam

Downtown Queenstown’s new pedestrian crossing near Fergburger contributed to hour-long delays for motorists last Tuesday afternoon, 10 January. With traffic backed up to Fernhill, Kā Huanui a Tāhuna (QLDC / Waka Kotahi alliance) put stop/go controls in place on the Shotover St crossing which allowed traffic to flow more freely. QLDC media advisor Sam White says with the influx of holidaymakers and the closure of Lake St for work on the Lakeview infrastructure, the crossing became a pinch point. “This will continue to be monitored and [the stop/go] reinstated where required. We expect congestion to reduce through January in line with the number of visitors.” Lake St is closed from today for six weeks. That’s one of a number of closures or restrictions which will have an impact throughout the month. “We are incredibly grateful to businesses, the community and our visitors for their ongoing support and patience over this time,” White adds. There’s more information on the Waka Kotahi website: www.journeys. nzta.govt.nz/otago/traffic-update/800932

Scramble for rental properties

By Paul Taylor

Competition for rental accommodation in Queenstown is so fierce, workers are resorting to sleeping in cars again, while others opt to leave town.

Citizens Advice Bureau manager Barbara McDonnell says pressure on the market appears to be returning to pre-Covid levels.

Back then, insatiable demand and little supply saw rents spiral, with seasonal workers cramming into shared housing, hot bedding, and paying to stay in sleep-outs and vans on driveways. Tent villages popped up on Skyline Hill and Rafters Road, Gibbston.

“We’re definitely seeing more people coming in who are sleeping in cars, now it’s summer” says McDonnell, who’s been with CAB Queenstown for 12 years.

“They’re just doing whatever they can to try and make it work. I’m not sure whether they driving out to 12 Mile [DOC site] every night or just flying under the radar freedom camping.”

The shortage of accommodation is a huge factor in the town’s staffing problem.

“We’ve had people come in with multiple job offers but they can’t find anywhere to live. They’ll have viewed 40 flats or rooms. It’s a competition to be chosen as a flatmate even, never mind get a lease in your own name.”

Those who’ve been in town through the pandemic face rental hikes when their 12-month anniversary ticks over.

“That’s the main enquiry we get at the moment: ‘can my landlord do this?’. It takes up so much of people’s income. But if the landlord can prove that’s the market rate, they can charge it. A year ago, you could get a three-bedroom house for $650, now people are falling over themselves to pay that for a two-bedroom flat.”

Lakes Weekly Bulletin worker Lana Yang, 31, is one of the town’s long-stayers facing an uncertain future.

She’s been in her rental for three years, and in town for four, but now has to move out of the $300-a-week property and find new digs.

“It’s not easy, especially because I have a cat,” she says. “I have nowhere to go, so I’m taking leave and heading back home to China until March to visit my family.

“My partner has already left town, for Nelson. He’s very sad and frustrated to not be able to find anywhere, because he’s lived in Queenstown for six or seven years.”

Yang says she has friends, a couple with a baby, who hoped to rent a $650 two-bedroom home in Hanley’s Farm, but were told their application was one of 200.

The market for double rooms is as much as $450, she says. There are about 30 rental listings for Queenstown on realestate.co.nz and Trade Me, while local specialist Queenstown Accommodation Centre has about a dozen listings on its website a present.

QAC general manager Richard Hoskin says they have multiple applications for every property. They can have five new listings a week, but they are generally quickly snapped up.

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“During Covid, landlords of short stay properties, such as Airbnb, changed to long-term to secure the income, but that’s turning around again now,” Hoskin says. “It’s not just Queenstown, it’s happening everywhere.

“The demand has returned to pre-Covid levels, in specific areas, the weekly rent in probably exceeding pre-Covid levels.

“Our job is to get the balance right between providing a fair price for tenant versus a fair return for the owner, and for it not to be heavily weighted one way or the other.”

Hoskin says QAC does not allow any hot bedding in the properties it manages and he hasn’t heard that it’s happening elsewhere. But he also doesn’t see a fall in demand or rents anytime soon.

“The streets are busy, there’s people in town for summer and a lack of supply. So, the current rents will stand and may get a little higher, but that’s reflective of the quality of the property. There’s a lot of new builds being brought to the market, especially at Hanley’s Farm. They modern, well insulated, and have the all facilities tenants want.”

LAKES WEEKLY POLL

LWB regularly polls locals on issues affecting our region. This weeks responses are below.

Should fireworks be banned in summer?

Yes - 42% No - 32% Ban them all year round - 26%

Will you still wear a mask on public transport despite it not being compulsory?

Yes - 15% No - 72% Unsure - 13%

Yes - 72% No - 14% Unsure - 14%

Are migrants the best solution to Queenstown staff shortages?

Yes - 61% No - 22%

Unsure - 17%

Should Prince Harry be discussing his private life through interviews and books?

No (never explain, never complain) - 31%

Yes (he’s free now to say what he likes) - 16% Don’t care - 53%

There were 189 respondents this week.

If you would like to take part: you can sign up on the LWB Facebook page.

READERFEEDBACK

RE: MILESTONE FOR QUEENSTOWN’S TRANSPORT NETWORK

QLDC and NZTA have sat on their hands for years and years with respect to the Frankton Roundabout Intersection.

It’s like there’ve not noticed the traffic chaos; it’s like they’ve somehow thought the problem will just go away; it’s like they’ve thought buses will provide the magic pill. Meanwhile the department just across the hall continues to issue consents for new developments out beyond the roundabout at record levels - totally oblivious to the Roading Dept and NZTA.

They’ve received submission feedback over the past 2 decades to ‘move butt’ on this issue - certainly submissions by me. By now they should have: landbanked; carved off the golf course; carved off the sports arena; offered $20M for BP to just bugger off - or invested in a direct route from the Roundabout to Gorge Road. These are just a few things they shoulda done

PARKING

I thought I’d write in some suggestions for the crazy parking in QT.

Rather than just winge about it, I thought I might highlight the issues and where possible offer some possible solutions/ideas?

In no particular order:

1) Abandoned cars - there are many abandoned or possibly abandoned cars (rego out of date, cobwebs all over, clearly haven’t been moved in months, camper vans, old Subarus etc) around the district.

Unless you ask the council specifically to check on them, nothing is done.

I suggest the council goes around all the streets in the CDB and adjoining areas and checks on all the Regos etc. Especially in the long term free parking areas - Man Street, Gorge Rd etc These cars can be removed, freeing up more spaces.

2) Robbins Rd - Shotover St/Gorge rd is open again, so why hasn’t the parking been reinstated?

3) Taxis - these (non official ones) can be found parking in normal spaces of an evening, especially around Fergburger etc looking for fares. Can we give them huge fines to dissuade such behaviour?

4) Hotels - The new Sudima hotel in 5 Mile has NO parking. The New Ramada in town has limited parking. Hotels should be forced to provide parking, at least 1 space per room. Almost all visitors to QT hire a car.

5) Loading Zones - 24hr loading zones? seriously? These should be free for normal parking from 6pm (possibly 8pm) to 5am. We keep loosing normal parking spaces to ‘Loading Zones’ or Taxi ranks (2 or 3 taxi ranks is enough for a town this size).

Every few weeks or months we seem to lose more parking spaces. They just disappear into a loading zone, taxi zone, Fergburger seating area etc etc

6) Electric cars... yes they produce less emissions etc.. but, they are not invisible!

They still need somewhere to park. Forcing everyone to go electric doesn’t mean the council can reduce parking spaces. They still need somewhere to park.

back when acquisition was cheaper. But hey it’s not too late!

Instead QLDC continue to misdirect focus and money into ‘vanity’ projects like Beach Street and Ladies Mile. The Roundabout always was and still is the big Elephant in the room.

Traffic Lights - really! This is going to be quite the fiasco. I envision queues back to both Rivers. It makes me rush for the calendar... no its not 1st April. Geez I am seeing right.

Oh and Mr Mayor... when you do have a bus service running out to Glenorchy, be sure to give us all a tinkle so we can try your grand magic pill solution out. It’s not just the ever-so-patient Queenstowners that are waiting for you to grow some kahunas.

Shane Melton - Glenorchy

7) Hire cars - how many rental companies are there at or near the airport? 5, 6 7?

Everyone who comes to QT uses a car.

Domestic visitors (Canterbury, Southland) drive up in their cars.

International visitors will hire a bloody big car (Prado, camper van, minivan) because they have been sold the idea that they can visit all the beautiful areas around here.

The buses don’t go to Moke Lake, Wanaka, Glenorchy, 10 Mile, Lake Dunstan etc etc

So you have to have a car. These all need somewhere to park. You see them driving around town in circles looking for a park. Thus, we need more spaces.

8) PUDU (pick up and drop off) this is what they do at the schools and it works very well. I suggest we set up a PUDU in QT outside O’Connells on both sides of the street.

The cameras are already there. Drivers must stay in the car or face heavy fines. No waiting. Just drop and go or pick up and go.

This can be policed via the cameras and fines.

Otherwise people have learned to double park or simply stop anywhere as if they stop for even a moment in a loading zone or similar they will be fined.

This way you can drop off kids, friends etc and then the driver can go off and find a parking space. This will be especially true in the Winter and when raining.

9) Buses - with the low pay and reduced timetable, it is no surprise people don’t use the buses more.

We need MORE parking spaces NOT less. AND better bus timetables.It’s not either/or. It’s both. Tradies cannot take tools on the bus.

You can’t get kids from school in QT and then to dance or swimming in Frankton on the bus. Fernhill to Pak n Save and back on the bus? That’s almost a whole day! QT is not designed for just buses.

Hopefully, this starts a better debate re parking in QT. I welcome the councils feedback on these issues/suggestions.

Bob Bobben

DIVINE

THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE

FREE INLAND REVENUE WORKSHOPS 25 JANUARY 2023

Introduction to business - what taxes to pay, maintaining a cashbook, expenses, using online services and more.

GST - what is GST, GST registration, record keeping-cash book, basic adjustments, GST filing and payment Register online at www.ird.govt.nz - enter the keywords “seminars Queenstown” into the search box

ACCOM

A ROOM AVAILABLE FOR SINGLE PERSON FOR short term by end of June in Hanleys Farm. $250/wk incl. exps. Or $340/wk incl. exps. & 2 meals/day. All furnished. Living wiz a nice& friendly family w/young kids. Must be clean&tidy. Non smoker Txt:0273632710

DOUBLE ROOM AVAILABLE IN LAKE HAYES ESTATE. Next to bus stop, modern, clean and quiet. All furnishings provided also with personal fridge. 300pw with no extra costs. Phone. 0220973308 or 0220852557.

SERVICES

FREE ENGLISH CONVERSATION CLASSES RECOMMENCE ON MONDAYS between 6pm - 8pm, from 13 February 2023. At St Andrews, 26 Stanley Street, Queenstown. Call 020 4189 9160 for free registration now.

FREE DIGITAL HELP DROP-INS. DO YOU NEED a helping hand with your digital devices? Pop in, give either the Queenstown or Frankton Library a call and arrange an appointment. We’re not tech experts, just friendly librarians with a good IT skills. We’ll do our best to fix your problem. For more information email: queenstown.library@qldc.govt.nz

OVER 65 IN WANAKA? MSD ARE OFFERING monthly consultations for NZ Superannuatants as part of a new Reconnecting Seniors Programme. To book a 20 minute appointment to discuss your NZ Super or disability allowance contact Community Links on 034437799 or info@ communitynetworks.co.nz

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 Monday – Saturday 9.00 – 5.00. Pre-loved goods and clothing at great prices. Help support the ongoing work done by the SPCA. Your old goods, or your time, could help save a life. Accepting donations (no electrical at the moment) and volunteers now. Volunteers wanted!

COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS OFFERS FRIENDSHIP, SUPPORT AND UNDERSTANDING to bereaved parents, grandparents siblings to help with coping and dealing with grief that has come about through the loss of a child. For further information please call Pauline Trotter on 0273960611 or email centralotagocf@ gmail.com

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.

EVERYTHING ELSE

HIRE A HIVE. HONEY FROM YOUR OWN backyard. We take care of everything, you enjoy the benefits. Hire-a-hive today at tiakibees.co.nz or call 021 090 75375

FOR SALE - HUNGARIAN VIZSLA PUPPIES. PURE bred puppies available from 12 Jan. There are 2 boys and 4 girls. Both parents have lovely temperament and nature. All puppies wormed, weaned and vaccinated before sale. Phone Deborah on 022 46630662

MONDAY NIGHT CROQUET. THE GOLF CROQUET CLUB invites everyone to 6 weeks of Monday croquet from 23rd Jan from 5pm at Jardine Park Kelvin Heights. $10/week per person includes equipment, coaching, and a sausage sizzle. For more contact Diana 0274574806

QUOTE OF THE WEEK: “YOU DON’T HAVE to be a fantastic hero to do certain things—to compete. You can be just an ordinary chap, sufficiently motivated to reach challenging goals.” - Sir Edmund Hillary

WALNUT DINING TABLE WITH 2 EXTENSIONS, SEATS 8 fully extended. Good condition, sturdy. Plus 5 matching chairs with leather on seats. Chairs sturdy but need bit of TLC. $200. Must pick up. Phone/txt 02102440625. Elizabeth

PROFESSIONAL AND TRUSTWORTHY ANIMAL/HOUSESITTER SEEKING NEXT ASSIGNMENT from February. Excellent references. Remote worker, so have ample time to spend with your animals. Julia the pet whisperer call/txt 02040173495 www. thepethousewhisperer.com

LOCAL ARTIST SEEKING STUDIO SPACE IN QUEENSTOWN / Frankton. Text details to 0223587768.

WINDSURF WEDNESDAYS @FRANKTON. CLUB NIGHTS 4-8ISH. JAN-MARCH. Bring your gear and sail with others . Some rentals and lessons may be available. Info on the club and sailing in the local area. Weather dependent so check with me :) Sue 0276408596.

FIREWOOD FOR SALE: MIX OF POPLAR, LARCH and old pine. Seasoned and dry. Selling in 6 cubic meter loads. Free delivery around Queenstown. $100 per cube. Contact Andrew0210416912.

ST JOHN HEALTH SHUTTLE

Operates from Queenstown to Invercargill, (returning the same day)

Monday to Friday for health related appointments for more information and bookings please call: 0800 103 046

Contact the Lakes Weekly Bulletin today 03 409 2800 or email enquiries@qmg.co.nz and take the first step to successful advertising.

Upholstery Ltd.

Who directed the 2016 film I, Daniel Blake?

Which genus of plants includes the buttercup?

What is the French word for "butterfly"?

What term is given to a vein of metal ore found in rock?

How many sides are there on an icosahedron?

Which gas is the main constituent of natural gas?

In which constellation is Betelgeuse? 12. Where in the body is the talus bone located? 13. What is the alternative name for potassium nitrate, a substance used in preserving meat? 14. In which year was Halley's Comet last seen from Earth? 15. Lepidoptera is an order of which insects? 16. Which semiconductor allows current to flow in only one direction round a circuit? 17. Which chemical element has the symbol F? 18. Which scientist developed the anti-polio vaccine? 19. Who was the first American in space? 20. Which is the largest of Saturn's moons? 21. Which element has the atomic number 2? 22. How is riboflavin more commonly known? 23. What was the name of the spacecraft that carried the Philae lander? 24. What is the chemical symbol for platinum? 25. Which word describes angles adding up to 180 degrees? 26. What is the tenth letter of the Greek alphabet? 27. What term is given to a bridge hand with no card higher than a nine? 28. Who invented the turbojet engine? 29. What is the Latin phrase meaning "at the last gasp"? 30. What is an adult insect produced after metamorphosis?

SUDOKU ANSWER

‘It only takes one spark’ - fire ban for Queenstown

By Paul Taylor

Otago’s Lakes and Central fire zones moved to a Prohibited Fire Season until further notice.

That means there’s a total ban on outdoor fires, and all previously granted fire permits are suspended.

These zones include the towns and areas surrounding Queenstown, Wānaka, Hawea, Cromwell, Clyde, Alexandra, Roxburgh, Omakau, Ranfurly and Naseby.

“This means if we get windy days, it will exacerbate the fire conditions, and fire can spread at more rapid rates.”

Marsh says the long history of significant vegetation fires in the area show how careful we need to be at this time of year, especially lighting fireworks. “It only takes one spark to start a wildfire,” Marsh says. “If wildfires do start, they can pose significant risk to life and property.”

On New Year’s Day, there was a scrub fire near to the Dalefield property owned by billionaire Tony Malkin, after a controversial fireworks display. Neighbours had opposed the huge display, over animal welfare concerns. Marsh reminds locals and holidaymakers visiting the region that this move applies to everyone.

“Whether you live here, or if you’re visiting our beautiful part of the country, please do your bit this summer to keep everyone safe.”

Fires and fireworks are banned all year round in Queenstown’s red zone, which stretches across the forested hillsides from near Fernhill through to Arthurs Point.

Find out more at www.checkitsalright.nz

Sprinkler ban

Water restrictions have been introduced as the district bakes under sizzling summer temperatures.

These require residents and visitors to only use irrigation sprinklers between midnight and 6am when general demand is at its lowest, and keep hand-held hosing to a minimum at all times

A blaze at Mt Crighton near Queenstown in October showed how quickly fires can spread, even when it’s not during the hot days of summer and prohibited fire season.

FENZ

A ban on the use of private fireworks within the Queenstown-Lakes and Otago Central zones has also come into effect.

FENZ makes a call each year on when to begin the annual prohibited fire season.

District manager Phil Marsh, says the warmer and drier weather has increased the risk of fire danger in the Lakes District and Central Zone.

“Although it has been warm and wet to-date, the weather is changing now to be hotter and drier,” he says.

Queenstown Lakes District Council Infrastructure Operations Manager, Simon Mason, syas local networks were seeing significant demand as a result of the sustained warm dry weather, putting pressure on supply.

“We have observed extended periods where water is being drawn from the networks’ reservoirs faster than it can be replaced, which obviously isn’t sustainable and can compromise the volume of water available to respond to an emergency, such as a fire or system failure,” he says.

“By taking a few simple steps now everyone can help ensure that the network remains in good shape, especially with the hot weather forecast to stick around.

QLDC is monitoring the situation and will provide updates. More information is availabe on the QLDC website.

Photo:

Tit bits Tit bits

FROM AROUND THE WORLD

Earth’s ozone layer recovery

Earth’s ozone layer is expected to return to 1980 levels in the next few decades, according to a United Nations report released yesterday. The once-every-four-years assessment confirms the collaborative efforts of one of the world’s most successful treaties, the Montreal Protocol of 1987, which saw 198 countries agree to ban the use of ozone-depleting substances.

AP

World Bank: Recession a looming threat for global economy

The World Bank warns the global economy will come “perilously close” to a recession this year, led by weaker growth in the world’s top economies — the United States, Europe and China.

In an annual report, the World Bank, which lends money to poorer countries for development projects, said it had slashed its forecast for global growth this year to just 1.7%, from its previous projection of 3%. If that forecast proves accurate, it would be the third-weakest annual expansion in three decades, behind the 2008 global financial crisis and the coronavirus pandemic in 2020.

Bloomberg

Donors offer over $9B for Pakistan after devastating floods

Dozens of countries and international institutions on Monday pledged more than $9 billion to help Pakistan recover and rebuild from devastating summer floods that the United Nations chief called “a climate disaster of monumental scale.”

The flooding killed over 1,700 people, destroyed 2 million homes, and covered one-third of the country at one point, causing damage totaling more than $30 billion, U.N. and Pakistani officials say. Large swaths of the country remain under water, with millions living near contaminated or stagnant waters, the U.N. says.

BBC

James Cameron confirms ‘Avatar 4’ and ‘5’ will happen Director James Cameron confirms “Avatar 4” and “5” after “The Way of the Water” tops $1.7B globally. It became the fastest film to pass the $1B milestone in 2022. Cameron said that “the momentum that Avatar 2 The Way Of Water has now” means it will “easily” pass our break even in the next few days.” This means, according to Cameron, that he now “can’t wiggle out of” making the future sequels.

NME

Golden Globes

The 80th Golden Globes kicked off awards season last week. Steven Spielberg’s “The Fabelmans” won the drama category also taking home Best Director. Austin Butler, who portrayed Elvis Presley in “Elvis,” and Cate Blanchett, who played composer Lydia Tár in “Tár,” nabbed awards for Best Actor and Best Actress in a drama, respectively. Notable winners include Angela Bassett, winning Best Supporting Actress for her role as Queen Ramonda in “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.”

Passings

• Charles Simic, former US poet laureate and Pulitzer Prize winner, dies at 84

• Cardinal George Pell dies at age 81 due to complications arising from hip surgery; the former Vatican treasurer was embroiled in controversy after a 2018 conviction for sexual abuse of minors, it was overturned by Australia’s high court.

• Owen Roizman, five-time Oscar-nominated cinemaphotographer, dies at 86

• Jeff Beck, the virtuoso guitarist and member of Yarbirds in the 60’s dies at 78

Garston Hops holding a special Open Day this week

By Sue Fea

It’s only a hop, skip and a jump from Queenstown and Garston Hops is welcoming anyone interested in visiting its rapidly growing 15 hectare hop gardens to a special open day this week (Wednesday, January 18). What started over a beer for Garston farmer James McNamee prior to the first experimental plantings in 2016, has grown into what is believed to be the southern most commercial hop gardens, and Southland’s first. With sheep farming not as lucrative as it once was, James and the McNamee farming family decided to try hop growing on their Garston farm, which has been in the family for 140 years. “We looked to diversify, and the hops seem to really like the climate here,” says James’ wife Lizette. Bohemia in the Czech Republic, Kent in England and Oregon, USA, all grow great hops abundantly. “We are all above Latitude 41, which Nelson is, so we thought we’d give it a try.” The hops responded well and love the longer daylight hours and totally shut down during winter, loving the cooler frosts, says James.

Garston Hops already supplies a number of breweries locally with Altitude Brewing first off the ranks using its hops since the first commercial production in 2018, trialling the year before.. Named New Zealand’s champion small brewery in 2021 with a haul of 12 medals, Altitude uses mostly Garston Hops for its craft beers. The McNamees also sell their hops to Canyon Brewing, Rhyme x Reason and Ground Up Brewing, 4 Mates in Invercargill, and Otago Brew School in Cromwell, with production being ramped up each year as the plantings mature and new gardens are added. Emerson’s also did a collaboration brew, Boyz II Menzies, with Altitude in December using Garston Hops.

Garston Hops grows its own one of a kind hop terroir and just as with wines that creates a distinct local flavour.

Altitude Brewing founder and brewer Eliott Menzies says the Garston Hops are quite punchy and expressive, full of more oils and flavour than in the north. “That’s the terroir, plus the care and love of the farming process,” he says. “Their hops have more aroma and flavour.”

“The terroir is so much better for growing hops here and that’s showing through. The hops are really responding to our growing conditions in the south. They’re more suited to the conditions where the rest of the world grows them, responding to long days and cooler nights,” says Eliott.

The local ‘story’ is also a big attraction for Altitude. People want to taste ‘local’. “We’re really interested in supporting our local economy by using as much grain and hops from around here as we can. This is pretty much the only region outside Nelson to produce commercial hops which is fantastic.”

Another bonus in sourcing locally is the ability to select rows to be picked earlier or later depending on what’s the best quality for the beer they’re making.

“We’re now fully contracted on all of our New Zealand hops to Garston Hops, buying one and a half tonne a year, and we’ll increase that as production ramps up,” says Eliott.

Great southern beer in the making at Garston Hops

Plantings take three years to full yield, but it’s a crop that combines nicely as a dual purpose with sheep farming, says Lizette. “There are only three months in the early stages of the hop maturing that you can’t have sheep grazing in among the plants.”

The Garston Hops team is hoping to attract other farmers and local landowners to tomorrow’s (January 18) open day to attract more growers to the southern industry. “We’re really keen to help other people to grow hops on their land too and show them what we’ve learned,” she says.

The McNamees are hoping to expand into more hop production on their own farm and eventually build a bigger hop processing facility on their property to help other growers.

The biggest hurdle in getting established, once they realised the crops were successful, was raising the capital for the infrastructure, says James.

There’s been keen interest in tomorrow’s (January 18) free event being held at the Garston Catholic Church with 120 people already registered by Thursday last week (January 12). It kicks off with a talk about why the McNamees are growing hops and why it’s a good business option, as well as the current pressures on farmers. That’s followed by a 2pm tour of the hop gardens and farm, and then a barbecue.

If you are interested in attending please register on Garston Hops Facebook or Instagram, or email: hello@garstonhops.co.nz

Garston Hops is producing its own unique terroir with more aroma and flavour

New GM for Wānaka Chamber

By Paul Taylor

Experienced hospitality business leader Glenn Peat has been appointed general manager of Ignite Wānaka Chamber of Commerce.

A 30-year veteran of the hospitality industry and a Wānaka resident since 2018, Peat was appointed to the role just before Christmas. He has national and international experience in leading premium hotel brands, as well as launching new hospitality brands in challenging markets and developing business opportunities for local communities.

Peat will balance the part-time GM role at Ignite Wānaka with his existing position as group general manager for Taco Medic International. He will work alongside Ignite Wānaka administration

Blatch.

Ignite Wānaka board chair Jo Learmonth says: “We are delighted to have someone of Glenn’s calibre take on this role to help the board refine and deliver its strategy to support the local business community. Our shared goal is to provide opportunities for business growth and success, through strong advocacy, training and networking.

“We are excited about our plans for 2023 and look forward to having Glenn become a recognised face within our business community.”

Peat says the opportunity to create positive change appealed to him when applying for the GM role.

“The Wānaka business community has an incredible amount to offer with an engaged and highly experienced group of members, creating a wealth of opportunities for us to grow and thrive together. I am looking forward to helping the region realise these opportunities for the benefit of everyone. “I am enthusiastic about what this year will bring and appreciate the opportunity to represent the Wānaka business community. I look forward to working with all our members in 2023.”

and events coordinator Rachelle

My Life Story

by Sue Fea

GUS WATSON

A BORN CREATIVE

A successful artist for 32 years and a born creative, Gus Watson wasn’t always on the trajectory to a creative career.

The youngest son of a well-known Invercargill lawyer, Gus was headed for a legal career, just like his grandfather, father and two brothers before him.

The family of six spent many happy holidays in Arrowtown and once Gus was at boarding school skiing took hold. He scored a South Island McKenzie Scholarship to train in ski racing. He and friends once reinvigorated the NZ Jump Competition which he won, while at Otago University he skied in the NZ Universities Team in Australia. “It was the only thing I achieved at University.”

Eventually he realised law was not for him and worked in an architect’s office before taking on a management trainee course at Hamilton Marine. “I bowled up for my promised raise after seven months and they said, ‘Actually you’re not what we’re looking for’, and I got the heave ho.”

However, in that time he’d bought and rebuilt a jetboat that one of the directors had torn the bottom off up a river. “I also cut the top off my Mini and made it into a sports car,” he grins.

Ever resourceful, Gus bought a sewing machine and began making sheepskin jackets before heading to the US in 1968 with $600, $400 of which he spent on a cassette stereo in Duty Free. Despite turning up with only $200, he was allowed in after faking that he was staying with “rich friends”. While ski instructing and serving pizza, at 21, in Squaw Valley, he once hitchhiked to Wyoming and back in three days on $10. “That was really empowering. I felt bulletproof and thought I don’t need money. I can do what I like.”

From there he hitchhiked around the US, sleeping under bridges, and in a snow-laden Canada, on the side of the road.

A kind Customs officer flagged down a truck to get him back from North Dakota to Denver then Gus was robbed at a party. A bucket of cold KFC lasted three days, and after stints in Boston and New York working, and more hitching around South and Central America, he was off to the UK

and Europe.

Back home a monotonous job at the freezing works prompted an ingenious idea to create an animated sound and light museum reenacting the gold rush days. Gus moved to Queenstown, flatting with Dardy Wallace and John Guthrie who then owned a cleaning company. He rented an old dilapidated building of John’s downtown which Gus cleverly transformed into Colonial Sounds, later Sound and Light Museum. “I’d seen things like Madame Tussauds and the Gold Museum in Bogota, and had worked in an asbestos mine in the Hollyford.” With sound effects created by radio DJ, ‘Cham the Man and Sound Hound Rocky Douche’ in Wellington, multi projectors and movies, old letters read and period costume photos, his idea was a great success for 12 years.

In 1975 he built a cabin on Jenny and Peter McLeod’s land, using Fernhill Oregon trees and recycled materials. Gus then built a hang-glider with Dardy. “It was homemade on somebody’s sewing machine and we thought the higher the better so we found a cliff to jump off.”

He then bought a microlight, and despite no accidents there, tragically, Gus broke his neck in a skiing accident in 1980, leaving him a quadriplegic. He and his wife, Suzy, had been married a year and were told on no uncertain terms by a spinal unit doctor having children was impossible and unadvisable. However, Gus pursued a uni friend, Dr Al McLean, who specialised in artificial insemination. “We got a direct hit first time. Having been told, ‘No’, when it worked, that was my miracleMilly.”

Good friends and the local community fundraised for Gus to fly to Wales where a chemical engineer, Dr Hugh Grenfell, was helping people walk with electrodes strapped on the leg muscles. “I used it lots but you could never

get far away from your wheelchair.”

A talented sketcher all his life, Jan Spary then asked him to paint her some hens. “Someone else wanted a horse, and another - children, surprisingly people were paying me.”

The lease expired and the museum closed, so he became a full-time painter. His beautifully, bright and interesting watercolours were exhibited annually all over NZ in main centres, and he’s exhibited at home every January for 32 years.

For years he was invited to a Fijian island and Samoa to paint in hotels.

He flew the microlight after his accident with help from local friends – “just to prove I could”, running out of petrol once and crashing.

To access his First World War ambulancecampervan creation, complete with bed and cooker, Gus used an ingenious hole to park the vehicle in so he could build the back from his wheelchair. He’s also made beautiful wooden furniture, built a 4.2m (14-foot) kitset boat, and enjoys adventures in his Funyak.

He created a photographic book of his life to inspire others with spinal injuries, and gifted it to the Burwood Spinal Unit. “Being paralysed is a bit alarming and people think, how terrible, then they go backwards, but I’ve always been quite positive”.

“I have a lovely partner. I’m really happy and life is great.”

Gus in front of one of his colourful contemporary artworks

Gus almost made it over the fence during his microlight adventures at Dalefield in the mid-1970s – almost, but not quite

GOINGS ON ABOUT

EVENTS - MUSIC - ART THEATRE - AT THE GALLERIES

COMMUNITY

Arrowtown Burns Supper

Round up your friends, get your glad rags and dancing shoes on for a traditional Celtic evening full of banter, craic, eating, drinking, and dancing.

The Arrowtown Burns Supper will consist of a traditional 3 course meal, entertainment including Queenstown’s ‘Hair of the Dog’ ceilidh band that will set the dance floor alight.

Whakatipu Walkie Talkies

Whakatipu Walkie Talkies meets every Thursday at 10:15am on Frankton Beach.

This is a walking group with a difference! Each week there will be a discussion topic and a guest speaker will attend once per month. It’s a great way to connect with others whilst staying active.

The group will walk and talk from Frankton Beach to the Hilton for morning tea and return. Meet at Frankton Beach near the BBQ area to begin the walk.

Digital Help Drop-ins

Do you need a helping hand with your digital devices? Pop in to the Queenstown or Frankton library, give them a call, or email to arrange an appointment with our librarian. They will ask a few questions about your issue beforehand so that we can plan to get the most out of your session.

Please note, they aren’t tech experts, just a team of friendly librarians with a good IT skills. Who will do their best to fix your problem.

Sessions are free and just bring your device and your questions.

For more information email: queenstown.library@qldc.govt.nz or frankton. library@qldc.govt.nz

When: daily until 31 January Where: Queenstown and Frankton Library

Whakatipu Reforestation Trust Nursery Volunteer Sessions

The nursery reopens for volunteering on Wednesday. Community Nursery Volunteers help the trust grow native plants but also has many other benefits; including learning about NZ native plants in a handson, supportive environment and playing an active role in helping to restore the biodiversity of the Whakatipu Basin. No gardening experience is required and morning tea is provided.

Bring along water, hat, sunscreen, gardening gloves.

When: every Wednesday, from 18 January, 9am - 12pm, drop in style

Where: Jean Malpas Community Nursery, Poplar Drive, Jardine Park, Kelvin Heights

Cricket

Enjoy the 2nd game from the Super Smash series live at the John Davies Oval.

Auckland vs Wellington

When: Thursday, January 19, 4pm

Where: Queenstown Events Centre, Joe Oconnell Dr, Frankton

Ross the nights caller will lead with the Scottish country dances so you can really join in even if you have never been to a ceilidh before. There is a cash wine and beer bar, with a selection of fine single malt whisky. Arrowtown’s Athenaeum Hall will become a little bit of Scotland for the night. Tickets are available at eventfinda

When: Saturday, 28 January, 5pm – midnight Where: Arrowtown Athenaeum Hall, 33 Buckingham St, Arrowtown

Teddy Bears Picnic!

The Summerdaze Teddy Bears Picnic is on again with plenty of fun for kids of all ages, with everything from musicians and popcorn machines to fairies, face painting and bouncy castles. Again, this year there is a picnic in both Queenstown and Wanaka. It’s free to attend. Bring your favourite Teddy Bear, pack a picnic and join the fun. Koha donations to Plunket.

When: Saturday, 28 January, from 11am till 2pm Where: Queenstown Event Centre

When: Sunday, 29 January, from 11am till 2pm Where: Wānaka Recreation Centre

The Whakatipu Chronicle (2022)

The Whakatipu Chronicle features new works by Paul Mason, Freeman White, the time-travelling pou of Anton Forde and rare monoprints by Pat Hanly. There are major works by Karl Maughan, Israel Birch, Dick Frizzell, Ralph Hotere, Chris Heaphy, Joanna Braithwaite and Ian Scott.

New Zealand’s pre-eminent ceramist – John Parker – is represented by a major suite of works alongside sculpture by Paul Dibble, Graham Bennett, Neil Adcock and Harry Watson.

When: Until Monday, 23 January, 10am – 6pm Where: Milford Galleries Queenstown, 9a Earl Street, Queenstown

Artist Talk: Australian painter Paul Davies

Starkwhite is bringing contemporary Australian artist Paul Davies to Queenstown. Based between Sydney and Los Angles, Paul’s artist talk will discuss his work, its process, and how the influence of Mid-Century Architecture and the built environment feeds into his painting practice.

All welcome.

When: Saturday, 21 January, 4pm Where: StarkWhite, 1–7 Earl Street, Queenstown

The Insiders

“The Insiders” group show features works by New Zealand and Australian based artists including Jane Reynolds, Caryline Boreham, Sarah Bultitude, Tori Beeche, Ekaterina Dimieva and Blair McLeod

When: until January 31, Monday to Friday, 11am3pm Where: Broker Gallery, Five Mile Shopping Center, 36 Grant Road, Frankton

davidgibbs@qmg.co.nz

HOLIDAY PROGRAMMES

Te Atamira January School Holiday Programme

Te Atamira Holiday Programme creates a fun environment for kids to get creative. The programme is led by accredited art teachers with each workshop enhancing the participants creativity and imagination. There are programmes designed for children aged 5-12 and the Rangatahi programmes are for ages 13-18 .

More information is available at teatimira.nz/whatson

When: daily until Wednesday, 1 February, from 9am to 3.30pm

Where: Te Atamira, Dart House, Remarkables Park Town Centre, Frankton

QLDC School Holiday programme

The Sport & Recreation Holiday Programme is fun for kids. The Junior programme is for kids aged 5-7 years and for kids aged 8-12 years in the senior programme. Each day is based around a key activity, with sports, activities and games to keep busy and active. Session spaces are limited so advanced bookings are recommended. Bookings can also be made via email to kids@qldc.govt.nz or in person at the Queenstown Events Centre customer services desk.

Wednesday, 18 January: Cinema and Characters Day. Come along to the cinema to catch a new release, then celebrate the favourite characters with themed games and activities

Where: Memorial Centre, 1 Memorial Street, Queenstown Thursday, 19 January: Summer Sports and Slushies. A day full of summer sports. Then choose a favour and blitz up a refreshing summer treat to cool off Where: Memorial Centre, 1 Memorial Street, Queenstown Friday, 20 January: Silent Disco and Dance Grooves. A dance class to get warmed up with and learn new moves with a silent disco and party. Where: Memorial Centre, 1 Memorial Street, Queenstown Monday, 23 January: Bullseye Bandits. Sharpshooters and Nerf masters unite. Kids will create their own bow and arrows and master our paper plane folding skills.

Where: Memorial Centre, 1 Memorial Street, Queenstown Tuesday, 24 January: Comedy and Croquet A comedy gala experience where kids can practise their own stand-up routine. Then an afternoon of giant backyard games.

Where: Memorial Centre, 1 Memorial Street, Queenstown

Paul Ubana Jones 2023

Winner of three New Zealand Music awards Paul Ubana Jones, born in London to a Yorkshire mother and a Nigerian father, Paul was playing guitar by the age of 11. Three decades and nine albums later, he continues to perform throughout the world.

Paul has delighted Festival audiences at the Dublin Blues Festival, Byron Bay Blues Festival, Vancouver Island Folk Festival, Blues at Bridgetown, and many others across the US and Europe. Tickets at Humantix.co.nz

When: Friday, 20 January, 7pm - 9:30pm

Where: Edgewater Resort, 54 Sargood Drive, Wanaka

Surf Trash

MUSIC

Queenstown Mountain Bike Club Wednesday Night Dig’s

Grab your bike and join the QMTB club each week for their Wednesday Night Digs! The crew meets at the Wynyard Corner at 6pm before pedaling up to the project they are currently working on. Wynyard corner is the main entry point into the Wynyard Jump Park in Fernhill, next to the Fernhill Substation. Everyone is welcome and no previous experience is needed. Drinks and Chur Fish & Chips are provided courtesy of the club to all diggers afterwards.

It’s a great way to meet local riders and help build your next favourite trail!

When: Wednesday, 18 January and every Wednesday, between 6pm - 8pm Where: Wynyard Jump Park on Wynyard Crescent

Queenstown Bike Festival

The 2023 10-day festival kicks off on 20 Jan. The festival is a programme of epic riding, events, giveaways, bbqs and parties. There is something for everyone from the top pros to the youngest riders. The festival could be a great way to keep the kids busy over the holidays. There is a pirate-themed dual slalom, junior pumptrack, slopestyle and Gorge Road jams. There is also some epic family-friendly events the whole family can get involved in.

The schedule is available on the website queenstownbikefestival.co.nz or get int touch on bikefestival@queenstownmtb.co.nz

When: 10 days from 20 January, between 9am and 7pm Where: events are being held across Queenstown

Queenstown Golf Croquet Club

Golf Croquet is a fun game which is experiencing a resurgence of interest at all levels. Games are enormous fun, interactive and take less time to complete than regular croquet, which makes it attractive to those who do not have lots of time to play the full game, and for beginners to acquire some useful croquet skills.

The Queenstown Golf Croquet Club are inviting locals and visitors to join in on 6 weeks of Monday night games. Make up a team or just come on your own. $10 a week per person includes equipment, coaching and a sausage sizzle. For more information contact Diana on 0274574806

When: 6 weeks from 23 January, Monday evenings from 5pm Where: Jardine Park, Poplar Drive, Kelvin Height

Queenstown Bowls Club

The Queenstown Bowls Club is holding there 6 week bowls3 five tournament. Teams of 3 starting at 6pm, with sausage sizzle from 5.15pm. $140 per team. Please email info@bowlsqueenstown.co.nz for more details

When: starts Monday, 23 January and every Monday for 6 weeks, between 6pm and 8pm Where: Queenstown Gardens by the tennis club, 19 Park Street

Surf Trash are a three-piece alternative-rock band comprised of brothers Andrew (drums/lead vocals) Nicholas Scott (bass) & Lachlan Jackson (guitar) Blending a melting pot of swirling driving pop Melodies, raw & punchy grooves mixed in with gritty washed out guitar tones that keep their sound on the edge. Surf Trash will be in Queenstown on the weekend celebrating the release of their new EP ‘UNDER THE RADAR’.

When: Saturday, 21 January, 7pm

Where: Yonder, 14 Church Street, Queenstown

AFL - Queenstown Bombers

Come and join the Queenstown Bombers at their first training of the year, QTB are a social AFL club and anyone is welcome.

Come have a laugh and a kick (maybe some beers after) in the sun and get fit.

The training nights will continue throughout the summer with some games lined up!

When: Tuesday, 17 January, at 5.30pm

Where: Queenstown Events Centre Joe Oconnell Dr, Frankton

Arts+Culture

ARTIST TALK: CONTEMPORARY AUSTRALIAN ARTIST PAUL DAVIES AT STARKWHITE

For anyone who loves Mid-Century architecture, or who is now back at work but still dreaming of those summery bythe-pool vibes, head to Starkwhite to soak up Australian painter Paul Davies’ art work. Davies has three paintings in an exhibition titled Whispering Gums: Recent Australian art and will be visiting Queenstown to give an artist talk on Saturday 21st of January.

As far as history goes back, art and architecture have always been interrelated disciplines. Contemporary art movements have influenced some of modern architecture’s most admired styles and within his work Paul Davies completes the circle borrowing back from the built environment to suggest a bygone era of luxury, power, and beauty. Davies’ paintings seeks to trigger our senses with an airy elegance and allure. Building upon the iconic mid-

century aesthetic his painting seems rooted in an optimistic post-World War II suburban dream, but there is a feeling of something more under the surface… Across a body of work that combines painting, stencilling, photography and sculpture Davies prompts audiences to question what lies beneath his depiction of highly desirable homes and pool-side glamour.

Based between Sydney and LosAngeles Paul Davies is rapidly becoming a painter to watch and is racking up an impressive exhibition history and series of artistic residencies internationally. Head to Starkwhite to hear Paul discuss his practice, process, and influences in a free artist talk.

Paul Davies Artist Talk | 4pm on Saturday 21 January at Starkwhite Queenstown, 1–7 Earl Street

Artist Paul Davies

Paul Davies, Pink Forest Blue Pool (2022) and Palm Tree House and Pool (2022)

Paul Davies, Blue Forest Reflection (2022)

I Do, I Do, I Do! - Queenstown Wedding Boom

by Sue Fea

ey’re spending anything from $5000 to $10,000 on couple elopements through to hundreds of thousands of dollars on grand weddings, as Queenstown’s popular wedding industry bounces back with a boom.

In 2019 the Queenstown wedding industry brought in just under $140 million to the local economy and Queenstown Wedding Association president and wedding planner Sarah Arkin estimates that the amount for the 2022-23 year will “far exceed that” with rising costs and increased demand. It’s an industry that’s hugely undervalued, she says.

Most local wedding businesses are currently experiencing anywhere from a 50 to 100 percent increase in business compared with what was an already busy 2019.

“ e wedding industry injects an incredible amount of income every year into the Queenstown economy,” says Sarah. “We estimate it’s injected a minimum of tens of millions of dollars into the local economy in just the last four months,” says Sarah.

Local wedding vendors have been under a lot of pressure to keep up with demand these past four months as the borders have opened and couples are playing catch up a er Covid restrictions saw so many weddings postponed or cancelled.

Prior to Covid times Queenstown’s lucrative wedding industry was already all a bustle with an estimated 1150 weddings in 2019. While most vendors managed to stay a oat by relying on Kiwi weddings these past few years, Sarah says business has now already well and truly surpassed 2019.

“We already have a lot of enquiries coming through for dates as far out as the end of 2024 and into 2025.” With so many weddings having to be pushed out until 2022 due to Covid, last year was probably the busiest year the Queenstown industry had ever seen, says Sarah. “And this year will likely be just as busy.”

Some popular local wedding venues and suppliers have waitlists with couples booked in over a year out and sta in short supply, but Sarah says everybody is pitching in to help each other out. Weddings are a high value visitor industry and they create a high value return with many couples returning year a er year for anniversaries a er their big day. Most weddings involve overseas guests who, once introduced to Queenstown, will o en return with their own friends and families in future as well.

Queenstown’s de nitely on the map as a sought a er destination wedding location and the high quality of venues and suppliers here, allows the town to cater for a huge number of elopements, right through to the big budget, large guest list a airs.

Wedding celebrant Philippa omas says the last three months of last year were the busiest she’s ever seen – “o the charts”. “It was just a whirlwind for everyone. “We’re de nitely on the cusp of having to turn away bookings all through this year. ey’re uid right through winter.

ere’s no shoulder season,” she says.

ere are bulk bookings from Australians and Filipinos with a Philippines movie star getting married here pre-Covid and causing a ripple on e ect. Queenstown is also a popular wedding destination for Singaporeans, Americans and Brits. Kiwis, who’d have normally gone overseas, are now opting for Queenstown. ere’s still a lot of live streaming to friends and family overseas, especially with the large number of elopements.

Photo: Kate Roberge Photography

Photo: Alpine Image Co

How summer’s shaping up for QT hospo

by Jessica Allen

An Australian Canyon Swing wedding in late 2020 had to be cancelled due to Covid, but Philippa’s o ciated at a paragliding wedding, a three-day Hindu a air, and pretended to be a magician at a surprise wedding.

Many vendors are fully booked for a year with popular dates booked several years in advance. “Weddings happen here every day of the week,” she says.

Photographer Kate Roberge has been shooting some weddings that have been in the making for four or ve years, a er they’d been planned for 2020 and delayed by lockdowns and restrictions. She’s fully booked until April next year with a lot of Australians among those couples. While larger weddings are coming back, Kate says many couples are putting more emphasis on the experience now and having 50 to 80 people at their favourite accommodation, restaurant or property, o en using clear marquees and beautiful views.

“Couples are being a lot more intentional, having a signature cocktail with all their best friends. It’s really individualised. ey’re not following Pinterest, but what they want to do.”

Less time is being spent ying to mountain top photo shoots. “ ey’re spending 15 minutes for photos, rather than an hour in a helicopter, and getting back to the people who are important to them now,” says Kate. “For many it’s the rst time in three years they’ve had all their special people together.”

It’s exciting how quickly the wedding industry has made a comeback, says Kate. “Last January we were all operating at 50 percent of the norm and we’ve gone from 50 percent to 110 percent.” Kate’s not only in demand locally. She shot a 250-person wedding in Auckland in December and is being own to Mexico, Italy and her homeland of Canada to shoot weddings this year already.

e Christmas dust has settled, the New Year has begun and summer is well and truly underway. Many Queenstown hospitality businesses are reporting pre-covid levels of customers and Queenstown airport supports this sentiment with international passenger arrivals surpassing 2019 numbers. is summer is set to be the busiest one in several years, and it appears sta ng shortages are slowly turning around – so what’s expected for the rest of the season?

Russell Gray is the Director and CEO of Good Group, owners of many establishments around town including Bardeaux, Botswana Butchery and White + Wongs, in addition to businesses in Auckland and Australia. A er a disappointing trade in Summer ’22, it seems things are making a comeback for the business in ’23.

“Queenstown is buzzing and demand is high –it’s as busy as pre-Covid levels. ere’s a lot more domestic travellers than pre-Covid. e rest of the summer looks promising as more and more overseas visitors arrive.

“ e real challenge for all is in relation to sta ng – we simply don’t have enough to operate 7-days as was the norm pre-Covid. New sta being hired from outside of Queenstown are nding it almost impossible to get rental accommodation – put simply, there is the perfect storm of a labour market crisis and rental housing crisis,” says Russell.

Local makers of Ginger Bear, Crimson Badger, have been operating for ve years now – the brand distributes its products throughout New Zealand and is looking forward to continued growth in 2023. Ginger, Founder and Operations Manager Wesley McAllister worked within the Queenstown hospitality sector for several years before starting the company and has a sound understanding of pre- and post-Covid levels in town.

“We have seen a notable increase for sales in general, but I don’t believe we’ve seen the full potential due to the lack of sta and venues not operating to their full capacity. We are very

excited to push distribution to the North Island this year – this is a market we’ve not had the sta or ability to support yet.

“From the beginning we’ve been a groundup business and we’re excited that despite the past challenges to pull the trigger and invest in equipment that will enable increased production and e ciencies within the business in 2023. I’m hoping this will allow the team to focus on quality, product development, and sales,” says Wesley.

Blair Impey is the CEO at Republic Hospitality, who are responsible for ten bars and restaurants around town including Sundeck, Habana Rum Bar and Below Zero Ice Bar. ey’re reporting a cracker of a Christmas and New Year period and are seeing a good amount of people coming to town and looking for front-of-house jobs. Blair has also noted that many tourism buses have been struggling with drivers and have cut services as a result. is is causing a slow in regular midweek business, despite tourist demand for the bus services.

“ is last week, numbers have been strong and you can see the number of people coming through town is increasing. It’s still obvious that a lot of restaurants do not have enough shi s and because of that a lot of people are walking around trying to nd some food and are struggling to do so, which then means that post-dinner drinks at bars generally would appear slower.

“We’ve just opened Birdy, a new bar above Habana, which we managed to open just before Christmas. en, we have our new restaurant called Soda opening in April or May, which is the old Prime restaurant on the lakefront. We’re spending a lot of focus on getting that going at the moment,” says Blair.

In all, it seems that while town is getting busier, sta and rental property shortages are still having a knock-on e ect. e hospitality industry is coping as best they can, but remember to book ahead where possible, be patient, and be kind.

Photo: Kate Roberge Photography

Photo: James Allan

Thursday Open Mic Night 9pm Bring your mates, play whatever!

Friday Friday’s with DJ Stubacca 9pm

17

Oktoberfest Saturdays $35 Oktoberfest Package! Dirndls, games and steins!

Saturday Saturdays at World 9pm

Sunday Sunday Sessions with Danny Atkinson, 5pm Late Nights with DJ Yuki, 10pm

Full menu available WednesdaySunday 12pm-8pm

Friday Calico live on the patio, 5pm House & Disco Classics from the patio with DJ Grizzly, 8pm

Saturday Surf Trash NZ Tour Tickets Online, 9pm

MENTAL heal

New Year, New You!

Dr Amanda Foo-Ryland

I was recently asked these questions in an interview in the UK and wanted to share them with you in light of the new year and with that comes fresh starts.

Why is making a fresh start so good for our wellbeing?

Let’s just stop for a minute and think why is it that people want to make fresh starts?

It is more about how this makes them feel than the actual thing they are wanting to attract into their life. It’s all about the emotion trade off. It allows them to escape what is happening now and project into the future seeing a better version of themselves. They create what I like to call a future memory™.

Without realising it, people run a movie with a soundtrack of their future self having or doing whatever they are making the fresh start for in the first place. It gives hope and the feeling that life is good. People do this all the time, although in most cases they are creating a future memory™ of an outcome they are trying to avoid, they see it all going wrong, this we all call anxiety.

Making a fresh start is great, staying focused on the positive outcome is key though and you will know if you are, you will feel good about it and gain momentum.

Why is it sometimes difficult to wipe the slate clean?

When our team works with our clients the main focus is to look at what is going on underneath the radar, what is it that truly holds people back?

The truth is that if they can name it, then that’s not it.

The reality is that the ‘handbrake’ runs unconsciously, out of awareness, it is a niggle that keep rearing its’ head and often wins by creating a block and stopping the client changing or making new starts, staying stuck and believing that change is hard, takes a long time and may not be for them.

I believe that what holds most people back are core limiting beliefs, the most common ones work with are:

I am not good enough.

I am unworthy.

I am not intelligent enough.

I am unlovable.

I am a mistake and the list goes on. Just uncovering this information is gold for clients and the self awareness that most of what we do and don’t do in our lives is all down to what we believe about ourselves.

The fear is that we will fail again and the limiting belief wins, as it always has.

What are some of the roadblocks that can stand in our way?

The main reason is what a person believes about themself, these core limiting beliefs were installed before the age of seven and have been running in the neurology a very long time.

A person will be very familiar with the feeling. In many respects it will feel like an old friend and the other consideration is that limiting beliefs at some level serves us. It protects us and keeps us safe. If someone

believes they are not good enough then they will enter into making a fresh start because they feel they ‘should’ do this. Then when they start to plan and take action the limiting belief rears its head and runs it’s script.

You can’t do this, who do you think you are? Why do this anyway, don’t bother, it won’t work anyway.

And again the script goes on.

So the person procrastinates, they may have perfectionist tendencies, this though is only procrastination in disguise, it’s a stalking tactic of waiting until all the ducks are in a row before taking any action. What this means is the person has the feeling that they are taking action because they’re in planning mode, however no action has been taken towards getting them closer to whatever the fresh restart is.

This means if a person’s restart is to start running and the limiting belief has won by doing its usual script, then the person will now start to look into running shoes by researching the best ones, when in fact all they really need to do is find some grass or a beach and start running.

The top 5 steps for wiping the slate clean and making a fresh start

1. Write it down, your fresh start and think about these elements. What will life look like when you have it? When will you have it? How will this make you feel? And how will you celebrate when you have achieved this? Plan your celebration.

2. Now imagine all this, close your eyes and see if it’s happening, as though it’s real. Ensure it’s all what you want, all positive. Make sure you are looking through your own eyes and not seeing yourself in the picture. What can you see? What can you hear? What is your selftalk? Can you smell or taste anything? Now you have created your future memory and you can run this movie whenever you feel a little demotivated.

3. Now become your own Sherlock Holmes, be your own detective and notice what you notice. Watch out for procrastination or perfectionism and know that this is just a stalling tactic.

4. Start to take action, small steps everyday towards your fresh start. Small doable steps are much better than big inconsistent ones.

5. Once you have achieved your outcome then celebrate. Also notice what you did differently, this will be useful information for your future restarts when it’s time to wipe the slate clean again.

Reading my new book will help you with all of the above, it became a Number 1 best seller and you can get it on Amazon.

Dr Amanda Foo-Ryland runs an International Neural Coding® Company. She has 30 Neural Coders working with her around the globe, online to help people identify their problem, delete it and install neural coding that empowers them.

DF Souvenirs - Queenstown

SUPERVISOR WITH KEY HOLDER DUTIES & INTERNET DUTIES

FULL TIME (40 HOURS)

DF Souvenirs has been a family run business since 1978.

Seize an opportunity to work with one of New Zealand's leading Tourist Stores. You will be selling possum merino knitwear, souvenirs, jewellery, health products and Adidas apparel, targeting the independent tourist market.

The successful applicant will have a background in either sales or from a customer service role with a minimum of 1 years working experience.

Will also have enthusiasm for selling a variety of souvenir merchandise, plus delivering a high level of customer service.

This position requires you to be handson within this role. Not only are you customer focused, you will need to assist in merchandising and help with stock control. This role also requires processing of our internet orders and processing the paper work required.

Your roster will be discussed at the interview; however, it will require working some weekend and evening shifts.

If you wish to work in a team environment and enjoy meeting people from around the world and this position sounds like you, then please forward your CV in person or by email to:

The Store Manager: Sarah Tallboys

DF Souvenirs - 32 The Mall Queenstown

Email: dfsouvenirsqn@xtra.co.nz

SENIOR GYMNASTICS COACH (Competitive Team):

The Queenstown Gymnastics Club seeks to employ a Senior Coach, to assist with the running of our competitive WAG (STEPs 1-8) gymnastics programme. You will work closely with the Gym Manager & other coaches. Previous gymnastics experience and/or coaching is a prerequisite and knowledge of the New Zealand Steps programme is desired. You must have the ability to legally work in NZ. Ability to teach a variety of classes and levels is desirable with particular expertise working with senior gymnasts in Steps 5-8.

The Senior Coach role has flexible part time coaching hours during Monday to Friday between 3.30 – 8.30pm. Currently this is a part time role (20+ hours) with the potential to develop further hours in the future. Role commences February 2023.

The right person will have experience in working and communicating with children across a wide range of ages, be hands on, supportive and pro-active whilst ensuring their safety.

The Club offers an intimate coaching environment with a progressive and supportive committee, and seeks to progress our coaches through the GymSportsNZ coaching programme.

If you are interested or wish to seek further information please email manager@qtgymnastics.co.nz with Coaching Position in the subject line.

Part Time Massage Therapist and Part-time Receptionist - Queenstown Health

We are a friendly, multi-disciplinary team that is looking for a part time massage therapist and parttime receptionist.

The massage therapy hours will be Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays 4-8pm, Wednesdays 8.00am – 12.00pm and Saturdays 9.00am – 1.00pm. You must be experienced in deep tissue and sports massage and have a good understanding of anatomy.

The receptionist’s hours will be approximately 20 hours per week with working alternate Friday evenings and Saturday mornings. You must also be available to cover annual and sick leave. You will need to be honest, reliable and punctual and have experience in general office administration and reception duties.

For both positions, you must have a valid work visa. Please apply by emailing your CV to info@queenstownhealth.com or telephone 034428190.

Waitstaff / Bar Staff

Sherwood is looking for a Waitstaff / Bar Staff to join their Front of House team. Must be a driven hospitality professional with a love of seasonal, locally sourced food and natural wines and know what it is to other consistently exceptional service to our guests. Great team, great renumeration.

Contact hayley@sherwoodqueenstown.nz if interested.

HOUSEKEEPER @ ARO HA WELLNESS RETREAT

As a housekeeper at Aro Ha Wellness Retreat you will be part of a small team providing high standards of housekeeping.

Position Responsibilities:

• Daily housekeeping of guests rooms, all guest facilities and staff areas including spa building

• Laundry including guests laundry as required

• Knowledge and understanding of effective cleaning methods and techniques using eco friendly products

• Attention to detail and high standards of cleanliness

• Adhere to all Health & Safety standards

• Other various tasks as assigned

• An eye for detail and ability to multi task

This is a full time position, average of 35+ hours per week. Roster works around our retreat schedule.

Physical Requirements: While performing the duties of this job: the employee must be able to work in a physically demanding environment; maneuver on uneven ground; stand for long periods of time; regularly lift and carry bags and bundles of linen, reconfigure guest rooms, lift, bend, carry, load and unload laundry in and out of commercial washing equipment.

You must be legally able to work in New Zealand.

To apply, please submit to: office@aro-ha.com by 25 January 2023

• Cover letter

• Current Resume with references

Passport size photo & copy of drivers license or passport showing valid work permit if required.

www.aro-ha.com

Receptionist/office admin assistant

Receptionist/office admin assistant

At MACTODD we pride ourselves on having the very best people in our team and our reception/office admin role is often the first point of contact with our clients and is therefore pivotal to our Queenstown Office.

At MACTODD we pride ourselves on having the very best people in our team and our reception/office admin role is often the first point of contact with our clients and is therefore pivotal to our Queenstown Office.

The right person for this role will be well presented, have a bright and engaging personality and have excellent verbal communication skills. This is a busy, varied role and you will need to have excellent organisational skills enabling accurate scheduling and juggling of priorities with last minute requests.

The right person for this role will be well presented, have a bright and engaging personality and have excellent verbal communication skills. This is a busy, varied role and you will need to have excellent organisational skills enabling accurate scheduling and juggling of priorities with last minute requests.

During busy periods, this position also provides a level of back up support to our PA’s so ideally you will have very good IT skills and be a confident typist and quick to learn new systems. Prior experience in a professional office environment would be a distinct advantage.

During busy periods, this position also provides a level of back up support to our PA’s so ideally you will have very good IT skills and be a confident typist and quick to learn new systems.

Please forward your CV by Monday 30th January 2023 to : Ros Pirie, Office Manager, rpirie@mactodd.co.nz

Prior experience in a professional office environment would be a distinct advantage.

Please forward your CV by Monday 30th January 2023 to: Ros Pirie, Office Manager, rpirie@mactodd.co.nz

THE HILLS PRIVATE GOLF CLUB IS LOOKING FOR A CHEF TO JOIN OUR SMALL KITCHEN TEAM

The Hills is one of New Zealand’s most exclusive golf clubs. Our members enjoy an unparalleled level of service in a unique environment that incorporates a championship golf course with full practice facilities, the finest clubhouse hospitality, a gym, a luxury lodge and a constantly changing sculpture park.

We provide a level of personal service and a friendly understated approach that is seldom seen in golf clubs. Our limited membership allows our staff to get to know our members as individuals, enhancing that feeling of escaping to somewhere special every time they come to The Hills.

As the successful candidate, you will have:

• Minimum of two years of experience in a similar role or a relevant chef qualification

• A genuine passion for food and delivering exceptional service.

• A meticulous eye for detail.

• Knowledge of appropriate food handling and food safety.

• Most importantly you must be reliable, have a positive personality, be passionate and enthusiastic about preparing food to a premium level.

This is a part-time position working 30 hours per week - mostly day shifts with occasional evening functions in a great environment with a high performing team. Remuneration will be based on level of experience. Our kitchen is modern and well equipped, and we use only the freshest ingredients on a menu that changes with the seasons.

At The Hills we pride ourselves on our commitment to our staff and offer benefits such as access to monthly staff golf, subsidised lunches prepared fresh from the kitchen, discounted fuel, easy access and onsite parking, a great team, and the most beautiful environment to work in.

Sergios Queenstown is looking for an Aspiring Store Manager to join their team.

If you have a passion for fashion and providing your clients with excellent customer service, then we would like to hear from you. You will be dealing with some of the leaders in mens fashion - Hugo Boss, Diesel, Scotch and Soda, Paul Smith, Bugatti and more. The current role is based in our Athol Street store working along side the existing team in an Assistant Manager capacity, learning the ropes within our industry with a view to further growth within the company. This is a full-time role 39 hours, 5 days per week.

Please call Kevin for more info on 027 245 8020 or email to kevin@sergios.co.nz

Full-time and part-time positions available.

Chefs/Cooks, Baristas, Front of House and Kitchen Hands for Odelay cafe.

Call or email Ed Devereux on odelaycafe@yahoo.co.nz or 021 280 2425 anytime to discuss.

Customer Service Superstar:

Seeking a diligent, committed and enthusiastic individual to join our A-MAZE-ING customer service team. The successful applicant should be willing to go above and beyond to ensure the best possible experience for our customers and take great pride in their work.

Main duties include:

• Customer Service

• Reception and administration

• Cleaning

Applicants must also be able to work flexible rostered hours; including evenings and weekends.

Email your CV to: jobs@odysseysensorymaze.co.nz

Traffic

Email Talana for more information talana.stols@salvationarmy.org.nz

Full

Please email Dianna via dianna.kelly@goodgroup.co.nz

Chef de Partie

Sherwood is looking for a Chef de Partie to join their busy kitchen team. Founded around sustainability Sherwood has NZ’s largest operating kitchen garden, a focus on local, seasonal produce, exceptional food & a 100% natural wine list. Must have a minimum of three years experience in professional kitchens, be a driven, self-starter that can work unsupervised as well as follow direction. Excellent communication skills and personal presentation is a must as you will be working in an open kitchen.

Contact hayley@sherwoodqueenstown.nz if interested.

CARPENTER

Queenstown's

•

• Early finishes

• Fun team

Please email or Andy via email or phone: 022 406 1707 Andrew.moore@goodgroup.co.nz

37.5

Immediate

TRADESMAN PAINTER AND BRUSH HANDS

Fully Qualified Tradesman Painter with 3 Years experience minimum Brush Hands with experience preferred but not essential

Own Vehicle preferred

Must be keen to work with a great attitude

Great opportunity to work on high end properties within a great team

Applicants for this position to be a NZ resident or hold a valid NZ work Visa

Great Pay Renumeration

Contact Steve Fraser - 0274316783 or email steve@stevefraserdecorating.com

Azur Lodge

Posi�ons Available

Evening Guest Service A�endant

This posi�on requires an individual who can work within a small team, this role is very 'mul�-tasked', the tasks range from recep�on work, food and beverage service, concierge & various front of house du�es.

The ideal candidate must have previous hospitality industry experience, be well presented, flexible & have excellent wri�en and oral communica�on skills

Housekeeper

We require an experienced housekeeper who is enthusias�c, mo�vated, have good a�en�on to detail and who would be proud to keep our accommoda�on to a high level while working within a small friendly team.

Full Time Posi�on. Applicants must have a valid work visa or the right to work in New Zealand. A full driver’s license is required for this posi�on.

Please email applica�ons to:Danielle danielle@azur.co.nz www.azur.co.nz

Van Driver

(Logistics

37.5 hours paid week.

Immediate start

Must have - Clean full NZ driver's license and retail experience

Email Talana for more information talana.stols@salvationarmy.org.nz

QUEENSTOWN NZ

DUTY MANAGERS, BARTENDERS & IN-HOUSE SECURITY WANTED

We are looking for Bartenders, Security and Duty Managers to work in our busy bar in Queenstown. You must have current working Visa and speak excellent English for all roles.

The positions are on a roster that will vary from week to week. You must be able to work weekends and evenings.

Maintenance Assistant

Full time

Sherwood offers a 78-room hotel, 120 seat restaurant and bar open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, live music venue, kitchen garden, yoga studio and co-working space - all powered by the sun.

We are looking for a man or a woman with a can-do attitude and a very resourceful set of hands to support our Maintenance/Grounds department.

Every day is different, with variety and challenges based on the season; spring and summer you will spend most of the time on the outside grounds and when the weather gets colder the work moves into our rooms and venues.

The ideal candidate will have some basic knowledge of maintenance, gardening, and a strong safety culture. On the job training will be given to the successful candidate.

This is a permanent full-time position and with flexibility to work a mix of week and weekend days. NZ Driver’s licence preferred with remuneration from $26-$28 per hour.

Please apply with CV and cover letter by emailing work@sherwoodqueenstown.nz

For the In-House Security position, you must have current COA. Duty Managers must have their LCQ and Managers Certi cate.

PART-TIME (WEEKENDS FRI-SUN) AND FULL-TIME WORK

Please send your CV to queenstowncowboys@gmail.com

Front of House

The Dishery is looking for a friendly, hardworking and reliable person to join our fun FOH team. We employ people of all skill levels. While we are always on the lookout for experienced staff, we also believe in hiring people without experience, but with the right 'can do' attitude and work ethic. We offer lots of opportunities to develop and train.

Please email manager@thedishery.co.nz or call/txt 021 664 553

Te Tūranga -

The Role

AsaKaimahi Taiao -EnvironmentalFieldWorker you will support our goal in restoring the health of Te Wai Whakaata-Lake Hayes.Reporting to the OperationsManagerandEnvironmentalProjectsManager,tasks includenativeplantingandmaintenance,pestcontrol,fencing, vegetationmanagementandpredatorcontroltrapbuilding.

This is a fulltime fixed-term role with the project endingon 30 June2024

Ō Pūkenga - About You You will be fit,activeandable to sustainlong periods working in avariety of environmentsandoutdoorconditions,able to operateeffectivelyand respectfullywithinakaupapa Māori environment,committed to maintainingahighsafetystandardand you canworkindependentlyand as apart of ateam.

Ngā painga – W hat is in it for you?

Whānau success is our vision. We want our Whānau to have an abundance of opportunitiesand for whānau to thrive. We offerafriendly, hardworkingandsupportiveenvironment,withopportunities to upskill and gain qualificationsthroughout the course of the project. We pay $24p/h

Ko koe pea tēnei? - Sound like your type of role?

Email Sarah Mukai – Environmental Projects Manager by 5pm Tuesday January 31 to apply sarah.mukai@manatahuna.co.nz

FRONT OF HOUSE POSITIONS

HOUSEKEEPERS

Part-time / Full-time Positions Spinnaker Bay Apartments has consistently been rated highly by its Guests for its high standards in Cleanliness, Comfort, Facilities & Staff.

Its time to expand our Housekeeping Team. If you are available for as little as 1 day per week or for as many as 5 days per week we welcome your application.

As an added extra, we will provide additional training in Reception Duties for those interestedin expanding their skills

Interested then please email Jude Paterson at info@spinnaker.co.nz

Food Runner Commis Chef Kitchen Hand

Hardworking enthusiastic staff member required to work in our fast pace restaurant. Applicant must have current working visa or be eligible to work in New Zealand

Minimum 6 month commitment

Why work with us

• Competitive salary.

• Chance to progress and work at other sites across the Nourish Group.

• Training and development.

• Daily staff meals.

• Dining discount within the group.

• Full support for visa applications from our in-house HR team.

• Paid day off on your birthday.

• Sign on benefits.

• Monthly visits out to local wineries - explore our backyard!

• Open for dinner only, so plenty of time to enjoy the mountains before work! Contact josephine@queenstownjsh.co.nz

“The steak house to end all arguments” Jervois Steak House is an authentic and premium steak house which makes no apologies for unashamedly celebrating a love of meat.

THIS IS A GREAT TIME TO JOIN OUR TEAM We are looking for Waiter

Full-time

Office Admin / Driver Role

Unique and exciting role based in Frankton. Must have office experience & NZ licence with ability to obtain P Endorsement.

Email interest and CV to: sarah@appellationwinetours.nz

Jack's Point Golf Course is an 18-hole par 72 championship course and consistently rated amongst the top golf courses in New Zealand. �e course, nestled between �e Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu, has been designed in harmony with the natural environment and the excellent presentation of our course by our team, provides our players with an unrivalled experience.

We now have opportunities to join our team: Greenkeeper Groundsman

Perhaps you have prior experience in one of the above roles, or maybe a background in landscaping or farming. As long as you are passionate about golf, have a strong interest in a career with us and are motivated to learn, please get in touch.

To find out more, please visit our Careers page www.jackspoint.com/employment

Scarer and Sale Assistant

Fear Factory Queenstown are looking for an experienced Sales Assistant and Scarer. Average of 25-30 hours a week (full-time), mainly evening work. You will be working with a fun, hard working, scary team, passionate about horror, making people laugh and scream.

• Excellent customer service skills

• Minimum 6 months wih full availability

• Stock management skills

• Cash, eftpos, till and computer skills

• Excellent team player

• Problem solving and communication skills to brief guests and sell merchandise

Interested?

Please email your CV and a cover letter telling us a bit about yourself to queenstown@fearfactory.co.nz

Intermediate/Senior Structural Engineer Queenstown Office

Want to make a difference, looking for a challenge? If you are a Structural Engineer with a minimum of three years New Zealand experience in building design, documentation and construction monitoring and want to grow this experience into the future we have a great position available in our office located in central Queenstown.

You would be an integral member of the team in our Queenstown office. We have an exciting and expanding forward workload which together with one of our Engineers heading away on extended leave has created this vacancy.

Lewis Bradford is a national and international award winning and dynamic company committed to providing the industry with a quality, practical and enjoyable service.

Excellent attitude, technical and people skills are a must, and you will be rewarded with commensurate remuneration, career prospects and ongoing professional development. Not to mention the opportunity to work in such an iconic environment.

Please respond (in absolute confidence) to:

Tim Bradford

Lewis Bradford Consulting Engineers

P O Box 571, Queenstown timb@lewisbradford.com Phone: (03) 442 9667 www.lewisbradford.com

Public Kitchen and Bar, Finz Seafood and Grill, and Bella Cucina are looking for superstars who genuinely care and want to join an amazing team to help deliver memorable experiences for our guests.

We are hiring in the following positions: Bartenders

Waitstaff Duty Manager Restaurant Manager Commis Chef Chef de Partie Sous Chef Head Chef

Kitchenhands

We offer:

• Amazing pay rates.

• Bonus's.

• Exceptional team spirit.

• Professional development and opportunities for growth.

• Accommodation available.

Apply NOW at: https://waidininggroup.bamboohr.com/jobs

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Republic

Check out our venues at www.republichospitality.co.nz

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Full-Time Landscapers

Arrowtown Four Square Duty Manager

Full Time mainly afternoon / evenings

Come work in our busy little supermarket in Arrowtown with great customers.

You will need a current Duty Managers Certificate or LCQ experience and the ability to get the Duty Managers certificate

• A team player & customer focused

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• Punctual, reliable and honest

• Passionate about delivering excellent customer service

• Taking responsibility for supervising evening shifts and organising resources to ensure that Store presentation standards are met and exceeded

Please email your resume to Amanda Colmore-Williams at: Amanda.colmore-williams @foursquare-si.co.nz

Happiness House

Fixed term/Casual Staff Member

Happiness House is looking for an enthusiastic competent individual who has a passion for their community. We are looking for someone to cover a fixed term parental leave contract, with the possibility to extend beyond the fixed term period on a casual basis. The role would consist of 10 hours per week on a Thursday and Friday.

It would be helpful to have experience working in a voluntary or nonvoluntary social well-being environment. It is an opportunity to grow and be part of our changing environment working alongside a high performing team of staff and volunteers.

For more information feel free to contact us on 03 442 65 31.

If you are interested, please send us your CV and cover letter at info@happinesshouse.org.nz

Applications will close on Friday 20th January at 5pm.

FRONT OF HOUSE SUPERSTARS

Located in Arrowtown The Hills Golf Course offers a great work environment where you’ll spend your days in one of the most stunning landscapes in the world.

We have both part-time and full-time roles available, offer a generous hourly rate with attractive hours of work and only occasional late nights required for events.

Experience in a similar industry and a duty manager's licence is desirable but not essential.

With easy access and great staff benefits including staff golf, subsidised lunches this opportunity comes with an immediate start.

IIf you would like to be part of this unique environment, please forward your CV or expression of interest to annette.smith@thehills.co.nz