LWB_Issue_904_Online

LAKES WEEKLY

LOCALLY OWNED SINCE FOREVER BULLETIN

Keep that airport draft Masterplan feedback coming

It is now almost a fortnight since we began community consultation on our draft Master Plan for Queenstown Airport. I’ve been encouraged and delighted at how engaged the community is in the draft plan and the feedback we’ve received so far. Please keep it coming.

The LWB editorial provides me the opportunity to address some questions

I’m getting frequently.

We’ve been asked about Queenstown Airport’s noise boundaries. I know this is a particularly sensitive issue and when an extension of the noise boundaries was proposed a few years ago, the airport received clear feedback that this was unacceptable.

A key decision embedded in our 10-year Strategic Plan is that we will operate the airport within the existing air noise boundaries for the next decade and not to seek to expand them.

It’s important to be clear on this point – an expansion to the noise boundaries is not on Queenstown Airport’s agenda.

We are proposing to accommodate modest growth to serve the community within the existing noise boundaries, but we are not driving demand. By 2032, we are forecasting about 23% more aircraft and 33% more passengers.

We are already working with airlines that fly in and out of ZQN to use the quietest and most fuel-efficient aircraft on this route – for example, the Airbus A321and A320 NEO aircraft used by Air New Zealand. The A321 NEO provides around 27% more seats, making it highly efficient, as well as considerably quieter than the airline’s A320s.

We applaud the district’s regenerative tourism goals and the Destination Management Plan. We want visitors to have a great experience here and we support the work being done to determine the right balance of visitors for our community.

We’ve also been asked about the future of Wānaka Airport. This draft Master Plan relates only to Queenstown Airport. While we manage the day-to-day operations of Wānaka Airport under a management services agreement, the airport is owned by council, which will consult on long-term plans for Wānaka. Sounds Air currently operates popular daily scheduled services between Wānaka and Christchurch and there is thriving general aviation community at Wānaka Airport.

Public consultation on Queenstown Airport’s draft Master Plan is being undertaken in partnership with QLDC through its Let’s Talk platform (letstalk. qldc.govt.nz/zqn-draft-master-plan) and there is an opportunity there for the community to raise wider issues.

We want to provide an airport that serves our communities well and that we can all take pride in. To do that we need your input. Please take a look at what we are proposing and let us know what you like, what you think could be improved, and anything you think is missing.

Glen Sowry, CEO of Queenstown Airport

Kā mihi nui.

Orbus Queenstown returned to a full time table this month, thanks to contractor Ritchies recruiting experienced drivers from overseas. Tenny, Bernard and Isagsni, pictured to the left of their managers, are among the latest cohort driving in the resort, with more on the way. (Don’t forget to thank your bus driver!)

Queenstown aviation tax mooted

By Paul Taylor

Climate activists want Queenstown Airport passengers to be charged a $100 local tax per flight, which they say could raise hundreds of millions of dollars a year for ratepayers.

Extinction Rebellion’s Pierre Marasti says the main goal of the tax would be to reduce demand, thereby reducing emissions.

But a passenger tax would also provide welcome income for Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC), he told councillors last Thursday. Queenstown ratepayers are facing 13% average rates increase this year, as the council struggles to fund infrastructure in the tourist town.

QLDC is the majority shareholder in the Queenstown Airport Corporation (QAC), which paid it a record $4.49 million interim (six-month) dividend in February, which equates to about $150 per ratepayer. The full FY23 dividend is expected to eclipse the record $8.3m paid in FY19.

Based in 2019’s 2.39m passenger movements (arrivals and departures), Marasti says a $100 tax could raise $239 million for QLDC.

“If we manage to reduce the number of passengers to let’s say one million a year to start with, this would still bring $100 millions to the council per year,” he says.

Like the proposed bed tax, an airport passenger tax would need support and legislation from Central Government, but Marasti says it stacks up considering the $140m outlay to partially decarbonise the steel industry, avoiding 1% emissions in four years.

He admits it would make it harder for everyone but the wealthy to come to Queenstown, but says reduced air traffic is necessary to avoid climate collapse, which will greatly increase the cost of living.

“Does it make sense to keep flying as affordable as possible when we know that it is one of the main drivers of climate change, and that climate change is already today impoverishing us all and doing a lot worse to some of us?”

Christchurch councillors, last Wednesday, also cited environmental concerns when they began to question Christchurch International Airport Ltd.’s plans to build a new wide-bodied jet capable international airport at Tarras, Central Otago, rivalling Queenstown Airport.

CAIL has recently bought another 40 hectares of farmland in Tarras for an undisclosed amount. It had already purchased 750ha, spending $45m on the project.

Christchurch City Council (CCC) owns CAIL through its subsidiary Christchurch City Holdings Limited (CCHL).

CCC councillors voted seven to six to support a motion, brought by Linwood Ward councillor Yani Johanson, that the council should: “Express concern at the strategic direction of CIAL’s proposal to continue to progress an airport at Tarras due to the costs and climate change impacts.”

During the meeting, it was clear councillors were about two years behind their Queenstown counterparts in understanding how much control they could or should exert on CAIL and its board. CCHL chair Abby Foote said she would bring CAIL to present to council.

FlightPlan2050 spokesperson John Hilhorst believes QLDC should take advantage of the “viable alternative” of Tarras Airport to close Queenstown Airport and convert the 153ha of Frankton land into a “quality, high-density CBD-campus”.

Hilhorst presented the second of three reports outlining FlightPlan 2050’s proposal to Queenstown councillors on Thursday, which the group claims would return $2 billion in land value to ratepayers.

“Any change to status quo is feared, we can understand that, but it is inevitable that Queenstown Airport will eventually close in the face of mounting urban, climate change and safety pressures,” Hillhorst says.

“Now is the time to have the conversation, with Tarras a viable alternative and other options not even investigated. Otherwise, urban sprawl will entrench centuries of high emissions and QAC Masterplan debt levels could threaten our council’s supermajority control.”

Queenstown Airport’s $350m 2032 masterplan out for public consultation until 23 June.

Queenstown Airport

Payout for abandoned employee

By Paul Taylor

A Queenstown tourism business has been ordered to pay $48,000 after ghosting an employee during the pandemic.

Southern Lakes Sightseeing Tourism Ltd employed Francesco Garino Canina as a tour operator in the resort from May 2019 to November 2022.

Italian national Canina told the Employment Relations Authority he worked from his Queenstown home, operating a van and arranging sight-seeing tours that were booked online.

He’d only met the company’s sole director and shareholder Zibo Liu at his interview in April 2019 and on one other occasion in Christchurch. He was paid on a fixed contract of 40 hours per week, at a rate of $26 per hour.

In October 2021, Canina emailed Liu to say he was owed 13 weeks’ pay and was having trouble operating the businesses’ Xero accounting package.

Liu responded saying she had just returned from China to New Zealand after the Covid-lockdown and was of the belief the business was not trading, and proposed “close till December what do you think and I will pay you as I owe you”.

But there was no further communication beyond this. He emailed Liu on 27 November 2021 noting his unpaid wages were now 21 weeks in arrears and asking if he should sell one of the company vans to get his money back. She did not respond and remained incommunicado.

Canina conceded the business was impacted by Covid-19 and the lack of international tourists in New Zealand.

ERA member David G Beck, in a written decision, said Liu abandoned her responsibilities to wind up the business and resolve employment issues with him.

“Mr Canina was effectively dismissed or made redundant in circumstances when he could have expected his employer to engage in a consultation process.”

Beck awarded $27,040 in unpaid wages, totalling 26 weeks, comprising the 19 owed weeks plus seven weeks’ pay for notice and consultation period, and $2,163 in holiday pay.

He also awarded $15,000 in compensation and Canina’s $4000 legal costs. “Mr Canina impressed as being patient and honourable person who despite being ill-used by his employer sought to maintain the business and its assets whilst he was not being rewarded,” Beck said.

Despite this, he was afforded “no respect or dignity from Southern Lakes Sightseeing and Ms Liu who simply abandoned her responsibilities as the company director and sole shareholder”.

Neither Liu, nor anyone representing her business, took part in the proceedings.

PHOTO PAGE

LUMA – Southern Lights Project delivered for thousands across the weekend in the Queenstown Gardens. The gardens was alive across five days with sensory experiences with illuminated art, light structures and performances.

Sixteen outstanding violinists from around the world were in Queenstown over week to compete in the first live rounds of the Michael Hill International Violin Competition. Sponsor DFS T-Galleria Queenstown welcomed them with an afternoon tea and bubbles reception before quarter final rounds which started on Friday and ran across the weekend at the Queenstown Memorial Hall.

Lorenz Karls from Sweden and Aoi Saito from Japan

Yuri Takana (Japan), Hani Song (Sqitserland), Ye

Yeong Jenny Jin ((South Korea), Audrey Park (USA)

IN BRIEF

FOR A RENTAL?

Heli drama

A helicopter pilot and two passengers escaped uninjured after a MAYDAY call near Glenorchy on Saturday morning. The pilot was able to land the helicopter after a reported engine failure, with only minor damage to the aircraft. Rescue Coordination Centre NZ (RCCNZ) deployed two Queenstown based rescue helicopters to the scene, after receiving a distress beacon alert and MAYDAY call at 9.51am. A separate commercial helicopter also responded to the MAYDAY call. The people onboard the helicopter were taken to Queenstown for assessment.

Gibbston date

Queenstown’s ever-popular Gibbston Valley Winery Summer Concert will return on Saturday, 3 February, 2024. Greenstone Entertainment announced the date last week, although there’s no word on the classic rock and pop acts scheduled to perform. Gibbston is one of a three-show, nationwide 2024 Summer Concert Tour, which begins on 27 January with Taupo Summer Concert at Taupo Amphitheatre. This year, the second gig will be held at the Claudelands Oval in Hamilton, on 28 January, rather than the usual Whitianga venue on the Coromandel Peninsula. That’s due to damage to the State Highway. It will return to Whitianga in 2025. “We are in the final stages of securing another fantastic line up of artists for the concerts and can’t wait to share more details on these soon,” Greenstone CEO Amanda Calvert says. The shows attract more than 15,000 each.

High density plan moves on

DOES YOUR HOME NEED A FRESHEN UP?

Professional property care services in Queenstown.

Queenstown Lakes residents will be able to have their say on plans to increase the density and size of buildings in urban areas of the district. Last Thursday, councillors approved plans to notify changes to the proposed district plan, in response to growth pressure and high demand for housing. “By enabling growth through intensification as opposed to urban sprawl and making it easier for more people to live in an appropriate location, services like public transport that supply those communities will be more efficient, and better utilised,” QLDC Acting GM Planning & Development, David Wallace, explained. The proposed plan variation will be notified in mid-July and then open for public submissions.

GET FIT & STRONG

EVERY TUESDAY & SATURDAY

Tues: 7pm – 7.40pm | Sat: 10am – 10.40am

Location: Shotover Primary, Kimi Akau room or online - $5 per session

To reserve your spot email stayft4life@gmail.com

“Young girls need to see role models in whatever careers they may choose, just so they can picture themselves doing those jobs someday. You can’t be what you can’t see.” - Sally Ride

LAKES WEEKLY POLL

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

Have you been the target of an online and/or text scam recently?

The Council Word

An airport for the future

Queenstown Airport has released a draft masterplan proposing a series of infrastructure improvements over the next decade and protecting space to meet the region’s needs far into the future. It focuses on safety, resilience, efficiency and customer experience, as well as supporting the decarbonisation of aviation. The airport is undertaking public consultation in conjunction with QLDC until 23 June. To learn more and have your say go to queenstownairport.co.nz/masterplan

Do you intend to read the Queenstown Airport draft Masterplan that was released last week?

Funding for mental wellbeing projects

Te Hau Toka Southern Lakes Wellbeing Group’s next funding round closes 15 June. If you have ideas for activities/events around the district that will boost community mental wellbeing you can apply for grants of up to $1,000. Full details at southernhealth.nz/tehautoka

Waste-free parenting online course

Do you agree with Queenstown Lakes District Council's proposed Urban Intensification Variation, that would allow increased density and heights of buildings in certain areas, intended to improve the amount of housing available?

Hey parents – save thousands and leave your kids a nicer planet with reusable nappies! Kate Meads’ online course can be completed at your own pace and is exclusive to our district. Tickets $20 including a cloth nappy trial pack (worth $80). Full details at katemeads.co.nz

Free chain fitting workshop

Unsure how to fit snow chains or need a refresher? Get a grip this winter with our FREE chain fitting workshop. Friday 9 June, 11.00am-1.00pm at Queenstown Events Centre.

Have your say on the arts

Should streaming services penalise subscribers who share passwords outside of their household?

QLDC is teaming up with Three Lakes Cultural Trust to host community hui in early June for anyone keen to have their say on the future of arts, culture and heritage in our district. For a full list of venues and dates click threelakesculturaltrust.co.nz

Win prizes with ‘wasteful’ survey

Help Wastebusters create community projects that will help everyone ‘reduce and reuse’ even more. Be in to win some amazing prizes just by completing the survey before 30 June. Head to surveymonkey.com/r/RZTF55R

Towards affordable housing for all

Feedback is open on a plan for local and government partners to work together on our district’s housing needs. Learn more about the Joint Housing Action Plan and its nine solutions for renters and homeowners, then have your say before 9 June at letstalk.qldc.govt.nz/jhap

There were 167 respondents this week. If you would like to take part: you can sign up on the LWB Facebook page.

www.qldc.govt.nz

Tit bits Tit bits

FROM AROUND THE WORLD

Greece appoints judge as caretaker PM ahead of new elections

Senior judge Ioannis Sarmas was named caretaker prime minister in Greece last week after a general election failed to produce a new government. Sarmas, 66, was sworn in last Thursday to lead a caretaker government until a new election. The vote is widely expected to be held on June 25 but has not been formally confirmed.

His appointment was announced after the conservative New Democracy party of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis won a landslide victory in a general election Sunday, beating his left-wing opponents by 20 percentage points but falling short of a parliamentary majority.

AP

China launches new crew for space station, with eye to putting astronauts on moon before 2030

The Shenzhou 16 spacecraft lifted off from the Jiuquan launch center on the edge of the Gobi Desert last week.

The crew will overlap briefly with three now aboard the Tiangong station, who will then return to Earth after completing their six-month mission. China built its own space station after it was excluded from the International Space Station, largely due to U.S. concerns over the Chinese space programs’ intimate ties with the People’s Liberation Army.

AP

Paralysis Breakthrough

Swiss neuroscientists have successfully utilized a brain-spine interface to enable a paralyzed man to walk using his thoughts, according to a study. The breakthrough development expands on recent innovations using spinal implants to generate movement in patients with immobilizing spinal injuries.

Gert-Jan Oskam, a Dutch 40-year-old who was paralyzed 12 years ago, received two brain implants and one on his spine, creating a so-called “digital bridge” across the injured nerves. A portable computer decodes his brain’s electrical signals and relays them to a spinal pulse generator, resulting in the perception that his lower body movements are voluntary. The procedure further opens the possibility for victims of paralysis to regain control of their legs, with researchers hoping to reduce the size and invasiveness of the implants. Learn more about the group’s founder here.

EPFL

Overdue book returned nearly 100 years late

The expression, “better late than never,” applies to a story out of Northern California where an overdue library book is finally back in its rightful place.

And this isn’t just any overdue book. This one was checked out nearly 100 years ago.

This library book is in bad shape. It’s seen a lot over the last 141 years. “One of my staff members brought it, [they] came up and said, ‘Oh, somebody had returned that book,’ and, they thought it was really cool,” Kreiden explained. “It was a really old book and we didn’t realize quite how old it was. It’s falling apart.”

Falling apart and past due to the Saint Helena Library by 96 years. In fact, the book is older than the library as we know it today. Published in 1892, it was one of the first books available back when the library was a subscription service. KSBW

Snow Farm users ‘horrified’ by loss of facilities

By Sue Wards - Wānaka App

After an unfavourable geotechnical report blindsided the Pisa Alpine Charitable Trust (PACT), meaning the first stage of a new base building for the Snow Farm could not be built in time for the coming season, cross country skiers were told to expect a “back to basics season”.

Now, Snow Farm users and representatives have appealed to Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) to provide facilities at the site - which is on a recreational reserve leased to the trust - in time for winter.

Peter Soundy of the Pisa Alpine Charitable Trust represented 103 submitters (including the Waiorau Nordic Sports Club) at last week’s Annual Plan submissions hearing, asking for facilities at the Waiorau Recreation Reserve this winter.

“Our request is $300,000 allocation to a toilet block and utilities building and shelter and $150,000 for car parking,” he told councillors.

“We have relied on a toilet block in the Southern Hemisphere Proving Ground (SHPG) building for a number of years and it is no longer available to us… There is no actual car parking on the reserve itself.

“We’re not asking for a grant: We’re asking for council to build these facilities. We’re happy to manage that build on your behalf… We’ve already done the design, got it priced up, got the consent. We’re ready to go.”

This winter’s facilities will be a far cry from the facilities planned. Image: Supplied

The SHPG ended its lease with the Snow Farm, meaning the ski area can no longer access its toilets, indoor area, and possibly also its carpark, and with the new base building delayed, submitters said the onus is on the council to provide facilities for the hugely popular reserve.

Pisa Alpine Charitable Trust trustee John Burridge also submitted, saying he was “horrified at the loss of facilities both for our community but also all the foreign teams that inspire our youngsters”.

“Surely QLDC can assist us erect something more fitting and recover the international reputation that [Snow Farm founders John and Mary Lee] passed to us.

Former Lake Wānaka Tourism general manager James Helmore also submitted that council include funding in the Annual Plan for the construction of “desperately needed facilities” at the Waiorau Recreation Reserve.

He noted the Snow Farm is on QLDC land leased to the Pisa Alpine Charitable Trust; that the Snow Farm is the only Nordic ski facility in New Zealand, one of only three in the Southern Hemisphere, and the only non-profit ski area in the Southern Lakes region.

More than 30 schools use the Snow Farm to learn about the winter backcountry, skiing, snowshoeing, and snow-caving.

“The Snow Farm is a national resource that provides for all ages and abilities year round,” James said.

The Snow Farm season is scheduled to begin on June 30 and pass sales and alpine hut bookings for the ski area have increased this year.

Unclaimed items sitting at the Police Station, at 11 Camp Street, this week include:

• BELMAR DA SILVA RIBEIRO – wallet

• LUATARO TUYA – wallet

• VITA KARDIMAN – cardholder

• BLACK IPHONE in black case, found on 18th May near Stanley Street Bus stop

• JBL BLUE wireless head phones, found at Countdown

• NOAH HARRINGTON – Ipad

• WHITE AIRPODS in charging case, belong to Steven

• SILVER RING with clear stones, found down by the Bathhouse playground

• SET OF KEYS with greenstone keyring, includes PO Box key

• ITEMS FROM THE EVENTS CENTRE including single silver and gold cufflink, silver bangle, silver cross necklace, 2x silver rings and 3 watches

• SMALL FRAME PURPLE and grey ‘Terrain’ bike, found at Shotover Primary School

• SMALL (CHILDS) PINK Trek bike

Accommodation

KIA ORA, LOOKING FOR ACCOMMODATION. FRENCH SINGLE male, 39yo, non-smoker, no pets, no kids. Working in Hospo with a sponsorship (AEWV). Long-term is better but short-term can be a good start (for winter). 0225003187/fabien.delavie@laposte.net.

Thanks

Community

THE CENTRAL OTAGO-LAKES BRANCH OF FOREST & Bird AGM will be held on Tuesday June 13th at 7pm, at Presbyterian Auditorium, 10 Elspeth Street, Cromwell followed by an illustrated talk by Sam Purdie of recent discoveries of new lizards/ insects in Otago.

ART STUDIO FOR HIRE AT TE ATAMIRA – Approx 4m x 2.5m, with sink. Shared kitchen facilities nearby in friendly creative environment, available for 3-12 months, from $70 per week including Wi-Fi. See teatamira.nz/our-spaces or email hello@ teatamira.nz for more information.

NEW TO THE AREA OR GOT MORE time on your hands & looking to give back to your community? Altrusa International Qtwn is looking for volunteers just like you to join our woman’s charitable & service org. supporting our local community. Want to know more? Email:president.queenstown@altrusa.org.nz or message us on Facebook.com/AltrusaQueenstown

FREE IMMIGRATION CLINIC. IF YOU NEED IMMIGRATION information or advice the Citizens Advice Bureau run an immigration clinic every Wednesday from 7pm. To make an appointment call them on 03 442 6679

Everything Else

QUEENSTOWN DHARMA CENTRE, 12 LAKE ST. WED (7 June), @ 6:30pm, “Calm Mind, Open Heart” with Grant Rix; SUN (11 June), @ 10am, “Cultivating Awareness Practice” followed by “Social Sunday.” Sessions are free with dana for the centre/teacher gratefully accepted. More info on dharmacentre.org.nz or FB.

ST JOHN ROOMS FOR HIRE. 1 X office space with free WIFI. 1 x room seats 30, 1 x room seats 100 with whiteboards, smart TVs, projector screens, free WIFI, shared kitchen and fantastic views! Contact Sarah on 027 206 6340 or queenstownreception@stjohn. org.nz for bookings and more info.

WATCH REPAIRS NOW

For all your repairs, watches, clocks, batteries, key cutting & straps.

Level One, Stratton House (Below Sky City), 24 Beach Street, Queenstown

Mon - Fri, 9:30am till 5:30pm. Closed on Saturdays. Phone/ text: 027 217 0442

THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE

DIVINE REALIGNMENT ENERGY HEALING | REIKI HEALING | BI OPTRON LIGHT COLOUR HEALING, to rebalance and re energise

PHONE PAULA FOR AN APPOINTMENT - 0211171389 www.naturalhealingpaulapetersen.com fbnaturalhealingpaulapetersen

RANGE ROVER AUTOBIOGRAPHY DIESEL SDV8 MY2014 One Owner, Excellent Condition $60,000 Further details email: russpaul.nz@gmail.com

Nature’s Philosophy

A Poem by Victor Timmons

Nocturnal birds in sibilant causerie Forest creatures in distant revelry

While nature’s blanket dims their rivalry And stills the air to peaceful reverie

How brief is this tranquillity

As hostile meetings in darkened shrubbery Remind, if only momentarily That man alone enjoys in camaraderie

FOR SALE. 3 SEATER CREAM LEATHER COUCH Good order. $100 Phone 027 299 0266

My Life Story

by Sue Fea

GREG THOMPSON

We have him to thank for leading the charge to preserve the beautiful central Queenstown Park Street Reserve and protecting the district’s outstanding natural landscapes, and, at 72, Greg Thompson is still advocating for the local environment.

Raised in Wellington, by his Scots College years Greg had already earned a wad of scouting and leadership awards, including a Gold Duke of Edinburgh award and the Queen’s Scout award. As an adult Scout Leader he earned Scouting’s Medal of Merit.

An inquisitive kid with a love of the outdoors Greg had a free reign growing up, building highly unsafe flying foxes with the neighbours’ kids and transforming the family garage into a neighbourhood theatre.

A strong science bent led him to Victoria University where he completed a Degree in Biochemistry, then teaching qualifications, landing his first job at Southland’s Menzies College in 1974. Here he met wife of 43 years Janette, a District Cub Leader. Renowned for making things work, Greg joined some southern ingenuity in a unique fundraising effort to build a local Scout Den. Drums of fat from the Mataura Freezing Works, strewn across the paddocks after a big flood the previous year, were retrieved and sold back to the works.

A move to Patea as head of science followed before Greg scored that role at Wakatipu High School in 1982. “It was a fantastic environment with so many opportunities. You could put down roots and buy a house here.” They bought a Queenstown Hill section off Hilary and Graeme Finnie for $22,500.

As experienced scout leaders they were both snapped up by the local group.

Teaching here for 13 years, affectionately known as ‘T’ by students, Greg once tried his own science experiment making home brew in the school biology incubator. “One day a senior student jokingly went to open the incubator, saying, ‘T, what you got in there – home brew? She opened the door and to her surprise there was home brew,” grins Greg.

On another occasion students came rushing into his lab to report somebody smoking in the boys’ loo. “We filled a big bucket with water and crept outside tossing it up and through the open window, and out came an embarrassed, sodden senior teacher – a secret smoker.”

Greg quickly developed a knack with early Apple Computers at school. “I loved it so I approached Apple and asked if I could sell them in our region.” Just like that he got the nod. “It was just before Steve Jobs came back with the iMac and then that really took off.” Gradually Greg taught less and sold more – the only one with rights to sell Apple in Central Otago for 15 years.

Not long after arriving in town an irate Greg heard that the government-owned Tourist Hotel Corporation (THC) was planning to build a big flashy hotel encroaching onto downtown Queenstown Gardens’ Park Street Reserve. He teamed up with a group of little old ladies in tennis shoes, soon renowned as local environmental heroes, and they took on the big boys as part of the Guardians of the Reserve group, which Greg became chairman of.

Many locals were outraged. “We thought why should a corporate organisation take over a precious reserve?”

Word got out about the 1986 court battle and before long then Nelson lawyer Jon Jackson, now a highly respected, long-time Environment Court judge, phoned Greg offering his services probono to represent them.

“We won just before Christmas and I was at my parents’. I was interviewed on TV on my parents’ back lawn, which excited my mother no end.” The group also fought hard in the early 1990s to ensure local Outstanding Natural Landscapes were protected.

Greg’s served backstage for Showbiz Queenstown, first joining the Queenstown Musical and Operatic Society 41 years ago for The Sound of Music, soon becoming president and treasurer. New to town the nun antics had him stumped. “Nuns arrived who weren’t in the show, one (Sister Mary Eugene) changing to play the housekeeper, while other cast arrived and changed to become nuns,” he grins. By 1988 Greg had convinced the society to hire professional directors. “That year ‘Joseph’ was a sell-out and we’ve never looked back.” Now a life member he also has a Merit Award from the Musical Theatre Federation of NZ. He’s been president, secretary and an active member of Queenstown Lions since the mid1990s, and is a Margaret Templeton Educational Trust trustee.

In 2010 Greg sold his Apple business and worked for Customs at Queenstown Airport, about the time he and Janette purchased at Quail Rise. Still not sitting back, in 2016 he and neighbour Kerry Dunlop approached then NZTA suggesting an underpass as a solution to the increasingly dangerous Tucker Beach Road-State Highway intersection. Two years later it was operating. “They acknowledged that intersection was the fastest growing volume of traffic in NZ at the time.”

These days he’s leading the Quail Rise community charge clearing a reserve and planting natives, something he’s passionate about as a Whakatipu Reforestation Trust volunteer.

‘Be prepared’… to take it on and win

Uncle Greg, (right), into theatrics at a young age, shows nephew Alistair Adam how it’s done

Greg, as an up and coming young Scout leader in the early 1970s, all ready for camp

Greg in the science lab at Wakatipu High School in the 1980s

Wakatipu wears it at TOI Wearable Arts regional competition

By Sue Fea

A Victorian-inspired dress creation, cleverly crafted out of the remnants of fast fashion, catapulted Wakatipu High School to top spot and ‘Star of the Night’ as the Southland Regional TOI Wearable Arts student winners at Invercargill’s Civic Theatre on May 19.

It was the school’s first ever entry in the competition, one of 16 school entries from all over Southland. Wakatipu High School will now be judged among 19 other regional winners from around NZ via video and professional photographs taken at the event. The winning school nationally will get to showcase its creation at the prestigious WOW – World of WearableArt Show in Wellington in spring.

The two eye-catching Wakatipu creations stole the show – the other called ‘The Wave’, crafted from blue tarpaulin, wire and chill netting. Both were entirely student led, themed, designed, created and modelled by Wakatipu High School students.

Arts teacher Abbey Brown took six of the 10 students, who worked every Wednesday after school for weeks creating the two garments from recycled materials, to Southland Showquest, as part of 40 local students competing at that. The school also won awards in Showquest - a massive showcase of themed student dance, choreography and theatrical talent, with its 38 local entrants.

While the Victorian fast fashion piece took ‘Star of the Night, Wakatipu’s other garment, ‘The Wave, won Best Innovative Use of Materials. The story behind both creations obviously impressed the judges.

The Victorian creation, complete with its corset top, large cage skirt and head piece, incorporated fast fashion items, upcycled into patchwork. Through this creation the local students were highlighting the contrast between the timeless, well preserved, carefully crafted quality garments of the Victorian age and today’s throw away fast fashion, says Abbey.

“That’s largely why they won, because of the story input and connections the kids had made with that,” she says. “The Victorian era was used to comment on the effort and sustainability of outfits instead of the throw away fashion that seems to exist today.”

‘The Wave’ was inspired by climate change, the effect of plastic in our waterways. It moved like water as the model walked. “Its minimalist design was effective and quite striking on stage,” says Abbey. The students facepainted their model’s skin white and used fish-net stocking on her whitened skin to effect fish scales for added impact.

“Our models did an amazing job.”

“We left at 9am and got back at 1.30am with some very tired kids, but they were so rapt,” says Abbey. “We had little sewing experience. Our aim for TOI was just to get our garments ready in time and on the stage, not to win, so it was just amazing that our students won,” she says. “Now that we know what it’s all about, and I’ve learned a lot about sewing, our aim is to go even bigger, better, and higher next year. I’m really excited for that.”

The school’s Showquest crew also came away with awards, including Best Use of Live Music – the first time Wakatipu High School has incorporated live music into its Showquest performance. Their item worked to celebrate the legacy of the performing arts created through a family and at Wakatipu High School. “Dance, drama, kapa haka, media and live music (English and Te Reo) music were used to communicate this on stage. The leaders were inspired by how the arts impact their lives so positively and create strong bonds between students, year levels, skills and generations.” These students were led by performing arts teacher Genevieve Foster and teacher Anna Hubbard.

Abbey says the school is especially grateful to the Creative Queenstown Committee, which supported its TOI creations with a grant of $500. “We wouldn’t have been able to enter without this generous contribution.”

Wakatipu High School’s Showquest performers celebrate the school’s success at the Southland Regional Competition in Invercargill

Year 12 student Cate Howard models ‘The Wave’ – which won Best Innovative Use of Materials at the Southland Regional TOI Wearable Arts Competition, while the school’s other Wearable Arts entry – a Victorian dress created out of discarded fast fashion, won the competition

HOSPO GUIDE

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! 12PM - LATE

7

13 Taps of local and NZ craft beer and cider!

WORKSHOP AND UPHOLSTERY

Subsidiary of Queenstown Taxis

Ph 03 450 2920

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• Warrant of Fitness Arranged with Authorised Inspectors: Let us take care of your WOF requirements, coordinating with authorized inspectors for a hassle-free process

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Council falling short on building WOFs

By Paul Taylor

Queenstown’s council is missing targets on building checks, which have been highlighted in the wake of the fatal Loafers Lodge hostel fire in Wellington.

Government guidelines state councils should carry out building warrant of fitness (BWOF) audits on between 20-33% of eligible buildings each year, with a particular focus on buildings such as backpacker hostels. But Queenstown Lakes District Council only checked 13% in the past financial year (FY22/23), some 109 of the 838 eligible buildings in the district. The years before that, there were even fewer checks carried out, with 99 in 2021/22 and 88 in 2020/21.

Dave Wallace, QLDC’s acting General Manager Planning and Development, admits the council should actually be carrying out somewhere between 167 and 276 BWOFs each year.

“QLDC is working hard to move closer to the guidelines and, in doing so, is using a risk-based assessment to ensure those building at higher risk are prioritised,” Wallace says.

The audits are a double-check that commercial companies hired to check fire alarms, sprinklers, fire doors and other safety measures are doing a proper job.

Wellington City Council (WCC) has come under fire for its BWOF performance following the hostel fire, which killed five people on 16 May.

A RNZ story last week, by reporter Phil Pennington, says MBIE told WCC eight months before the fire that the volume of checks were not up to scratch.

WCC was conducting checks on fewer than 4% of eligible buildings each year, “well below what we would expect for an effective auditing regime,” MBIE said in a September 2022 assessment, according to RNZ. It also criticised the council for being too soft on enforcement.

WCC said it is now checking between a third and a fifth of the 2800 commercial buildings.

In contrast, a MBIE report into QLDC’s schedule was less damning.

On the 161 BWOF audits undertaking by QLDC between 2018 and 2021 it noted: “It is pleasing to see the audit numbers for the last year are close to target levels and that the risk factor of buildings is being considered with audit frequency. No further enquiry or follow-up required at this time.”

An earlier RNZ story stated that QLDC was one of three councils that had conducted no audits at all, but QLDC says that was inaccurate and it requested a correction/clarification.

The 109 buildings audited in the past financial year comprised of 55 commercial buildings, 36 community service (including accommodation), nine childcare and schools, three community care, three industrial, two multiunit dwellings and one restaurant / venue.

The victims of the Loafers Lodge fire were Michael Wahrlich, 67, Melvin Joseph Parun, 68, Peter Glenn O’Sullivan, 64, Kenneth Barnard, 67, and Liam Hockings, 50.

A 48-year-old man has been charged with five counts of murder and two counts of arson. He is remanded in custody.

Queenstown CBD, seen from Skyline, in 2021. Photo: Joel Lee, Unsplash

Dr John Bowbyes Consultant Eye Specialist

Mb.Chb ; F.R.C.S.; F.R.A.N.Z.C.O.; F.R.A.C.S.; F.R.C.Ophth; D.O.(Lond) Phone:03

Arts+Culture

Winter fundraiser for Arrowtown School

By Jess Allen

Arrowtown School PTA will be holding their biggest fundraiser of the year this weekend. The soiree will include live and silent auctions, nibbles, a cash bar, and live music, with a call to dress to impress. The funds raised will be used to purchase a much needed PA for the school.

Everyone is welcome to attend The Welcome to Winter Party, not just members of Arrowtown’s School community. The event runs every other year, alternating with the School Fair, which raised over $50,000 last year, making it the biggest earning event for the school so far.

“We have Sam Maxwell and The Crown Rangers playing for the night,” says Rachel Brown, the PTA Chairperson. “We’ve got an auctioneer coming over from Ray White, who are our major sponsor for the event – we’re going to have some wonderful prizes. We have a grazing platter on the night, which will be absolutely gorgeous, and wines provided by Mora.”

Always a great night with lots of fun to be had, the night is an opportunity to mingle with the local community and have a laugh for a good cause. There’s a large amount of items for the auction and silent auction. Prizes include a night at Glenorchy’s Headwaters Eco Lodge and a chef’s dinner for two, which is valued at over $1,000. Some more of what’s on offer includes a three-night stay at a beach house in Karitane, some beautiful wool blankets from Royalburn Station, three-metres of dry firewood, and a candle worth $750 from Angel Divine.

The Arrowtown PTA is made up of parents and a teacher representative who aim to help build a strong community through school and local events. These events raise funds to spend on essential resources that directly benefit the school and the students and while smaller fundraising events are run throughout the year, this is the biggest. Rachel and the PTA are all very grateful to Ray White Arrowtown for “coming to the party.”

“We are raising money to help fund a new sound system in the hall because the one that we have needs replacing. This is our major fundraiser and all of the funds go to Arrowtown School. We’re expecting around 200 to 250 people and we’re looking

to raise about $35,000 – that’s our target and our goal for the evening. Everyone in the district is welcome, it’s not just an Arrowtown event, and we would really like to see a big turnout from the community in general,” says Rachel.

The Welcome to Winter Party fundraiser for Arrowtown School PTA will take place at Arrowtown Athenaeum Hall on Saturday 10 June. Tickets are $60 – it’s strictly an R18 event – and if you’re unable to attend you can also make a donation through the website. For more information and to purchase tickets you can go to welcome-to-winter-party.raisely.com

Welcome to Winter PARTY

Presented by Arrowtown School PTA and Ray White Arrowtown

Police urge caution on roads amid harsh winter predictions

By Sue Fea

Police are urging drivers to be extra cautious, informed, and prepared heading into what is expected to be a very harsh and busy winter season on our local roads.

Central Otago Queenstown Lakes Area Road Policing Manager Senior Sergeant Steve Watt says weather experts are warning of a more severe winter as the south transitions from its incredible, balmy La Niña summer into more of an El Niño weather effect. “The last two winters have been relatively mild which could catch many unprepared to drive in the harsher conditions,” says Watt. “The biggest cause of accidents is failure to drive to the conditions and speed. People often get caught out in that first frost when the road is iced over and not being aware of the black ice spots that cause harm,” he says. “We just need to be really careful.”

In the lead up to winter as the excitement builds, Watts urges drivers to check their vehicles and ensure they’re winter ready. This includes checking tyres have sufficient tread and testing out their chains, which are always supposed to be carried when driving over the Crown Range. “However, it’s no good carrying chains if you don’t know how to fit them,” says Watt. He’s hoping local drivers will make the most of the QLDC’s free ‘how to’ chain fitting sessions. These will be held in Queenstown on June 9 at the Queenstown Events Centre and in Wanaka on June 13 at the Wanaka Recreation Centre from 11am until 1pm.

“This is a great opportunity to get some proper instructions. The experts on hand will show people how to fit their own chains onto their own vehicle.”

Watt is also urging people to factor in that extra bit of time to their journeys with a larger influx of visitors also likely on our roads. Accommodation providers are reporting strong ski season bookings, particularly from Australia, and local drivers need to be patient with extra visitors on the roads. “Due to Covid the last few winters meant less visitors, and the weather during the last two winters was quite mild,” he says. “Anecdotally, we’ve seen traffic accidents down on pre-Covid times, potentially due to reduced tourist numbers. However, this year is likely to be substantially different, with a harsh winter and increased traffic adding that element of danger with extra care needed.”

Patience is vital with a mix of international, national, and local drivers on the roads. “Plan your trips and allow extra time so you won’t get frustrated when you’re stuck behind others who are travelling a bit slower than you want to go.” Driving abilities differ and Watt says drivers need to be mindful that not everyone is at their same skill level. “Be considerate.”

As the winter party atmosphere builds police will continue to crack down on drink driving. Police have an Impairment Target Team working throughout the region and that’s always a big focus. “But as the tourist numbers increase, we inevitably get more drink drivers,” says Watt.

Police have also been coming down hard on speeding throughout the region’s rural roads with a specialist operation launched at the start of May for duck shooting weekend. “We had a driver stopped clocking 210kms an hour on the Ida Valley straights, which is just ridiculous,” says Watts. The Otago man was charged with dangerous driving and his vehicle was impounded. “Slow down on rural roads as at that speed the harm caused is catastrophic.”

NIWA Principal Scientist Forecasting and Media Chris Brandolino echoes Watts calls for caution this winter. “It’s been unusually warmer than normal for the past three winters. We’ve had record warm winters consecutively,” he says. People need to be prepared to encounter winter driving conditions. “We’re now segwaying into El Niño and moving through that transition the weather patterns will be especially lumpy,” says Brandolino. El Niño means more south-westerly winds and these are likely to hit in the last month or so of winter, becoming more profound into spring, he says. June and July so far look like good bets for “meaningful larger scale snow events” in the Queenstown area.

Tips for winter driving:

• Drive to the conditions, not the speed limit – a limit, not a target.

• Watch for black ice up ahead.

• Take extra care around bridges. They freeze faster.

• Don’t tail gate – give space, especially to drivers unfamiliar with the roads.

• Keep speed down even if grit and anti-icing agents have been applied. They’re no guarantee.

• Drive on the grit where possible – not in a wheel track, to maximise its effect.

• Don’t use boiling water on your windscreens. Grab a free ice scraper from district council offices, recreation centres and libraries.

• Always have your car lights on half or full to make you more visible.

• Carry chains. Make sure they’re the right tyre size and know how to fit them.

• If it’s cold, snowy or icy stay home and only travel if essential.

• Road closures and restrictions are put in place for the safety of everyone, especially the people who work on them to try and get them open for you.

• Don’t overtake the grit trucks – e.g. The Crowned Ranger or Gritty Gritty Bang Bang. They’re trying to make the roads safer.

• Sign up to QLDC winter road reports.

GOINGS ON ABOUT

EVENTS - MUSIC - ART THEATRE - AT THE GALLERIES

COMMUNITY

Welcome to Winter Party fundraiser

Hui: Arts, Culture & Heritage in Queenstown Lakes District

Interested in arts, culture and heritage in our district?

Three Lakes Cultural Trust invites locals to an upcoming hui, bring a friend, and have your say in the future of arts, culture and heritage in the Queenstown Lakes District. Be part of the conversation and together let’s craft a strategy for our district that accurately reflects our community.

These hui’s are for everyone, regardless of your level of involvement in the arts, cultural or heritage scene.

When: Thursday 8 June 9:30 am - 11:30 am

Where: Arrowtown Athenaeum Hall, 33 Buckingham St, Arrowtown

Immigration Advice

If you need immigration information or advice the Citizens Advice Bureau run an immigration clinic every Wednesday from 7pm. To make an appointment call them on 03 442 6679.

When: Wednesday 7 and 14 June at 7 pm

Where: Citizens Advice, Queenstown, 44 Stanley Street

Budgeting Advice

Life can be a balancing act and sometimes things beyond your control can throw the balance completely off, Citizens Advice offers free and discreet financial advice on how you can maintain that balance. Often you are in the depth of the issues and are feeling a little overwhelmed, you need someone to help clear your mind and reprioritize. That’s our Budget advisor! Call for an appointment on 03 442 6799.

Where: Citizens Advice, Queenstown, 44 Stanley Street

Queenstown parkrun

Queenstown parkrun is a free, community event where you can walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate. parkrun is 5k in length and takes place every Saturday morning at 9am in the winter.

parkrun is positive, welcoming and inclusive, there is no time limit and no one finishes last. Everyone is welcome to come along.

The event takes place at Queenstown Gardens and while its free please register before you first come along. Only ever register with parkrun once and bring a scannable copy of your barcode so you get your time.

The start and finish is at the Queenstown Gardens band rotunda after running an out and back circuit of Queenstown Gardens. The course is a mix of concrete footpath and hard packed dirt trail.

When: Saturday at 9:00 am

Where: Queenstown Gardens band rotunda

Wānaka parkrun

Start and finish in Wānaka Station Park with an ‘out and back’ section along the lakefront path to Waterfall Creek(hard packed dirt path)

When: Saturday at 9am

If you would like your show, event, exhibition or meeting promoted in Goings On drop me a line at davidgibbs@qmg.co.nz with the details

The Arrowtown School is hosting a Welcome to Winter party on Saturday with a line up of entertainment that includes Sam Maxwell and The Crown Rangers, live and silent auctions and raffles which will be held during the event. All proceeds from the party are going to Arrowtown School.

Tickets are only $60 and include grazing platters, entry, and a cash bar is available. Tickets are available online at https://welcome-to-winter-party.raisely.com

When: Saturday 10 June from 6:00 pm

Where: Arrowtown Athenaeum Hall, 33 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown

French Film Festival Aotearoa 2023

The L’OR French Film Festival Aotearoa delivers the crème de la crème of French cinema to the big screen in Arrowtown. Whatever your preference, there is a selection of the most fantastique French films for 2023. The festival will run at Dorothy Browns from the 2nd to 14th June. Check out frenchfilmfestival.co.nz for more information and ticketing.

When: Daily until Wednesday 14 June

Where: Dorothy Browns, 18 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown

Snow Ball

King Beats Festival is back with a winter event, Snow Ball!

The night will kick off with some of Queenstown’s hottest house DJs, followed by the main man PDigsss with some vocals.

To close out the night there will be an explosive drum & bass finale!

EVENT

The lineup includes headliner P Digsss from Shapeshifters, along with Lenni Vibe, DISHFIRE, GRZLY, Stevie Tom, and Lukie_M! Bungy jump spots will be available from 5-9 pm for those who want to add an extra dose of adrenaline to their evening.

Transport options will be available.

Tickets are $75. Early bird tickets on sale for only $55. Tickets online at trybooking.co.nz/NVC

When: Saturday July 1 from 5 pm

Where: AJ Hackett Kawarau Bungy Centre, Gibbston Highway

ICE HOCKEY

2023 NZIHL SkyCity Stampede vs Botany

Swarm

Watch the fastest team sport as SkyCity Stampede take to the ice for the NZIHL 2023 season taking on the Botany Swarm. Who will be the winner as SkyCity Stampede start their campaign to keep the Birgel cup in Queenstown and win another championship for another year. Tickets available at eventfinda.

When: Friday 9 June 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm and Saturday 10 June 7:00 pm –9:30 pm

Where: Queenstown Ice Arena, 29 Park St, Queenstown

Compassion Retreat at Ora with Geshe Sangey Thinley

This is an opportunity to receive teachings from authentic Buddhist masters Ven. Geshe Sangey Thinley (Geshe-la) and Ven. Geshe Jamyang Sherab. This retreat has a combination of dharma teachings, spiritual practice, open discussion, mantra recitation, times of silence and contemplative meditation. Qigong and personal support and spiritual advice will also be offered. The retreat runs from 6am on Monday June 12th to 6pm on Sunday June 18th, and is available both in-person and online. Registration is required. $350 without accommodation and $700 with shared accommodation. All materials needed for the retreat will be provided. Register through the website: oraretreat.com

When: Monday June 12, 6:00 am – June 18, 6:00 pm

Where: Ora, 26 Arawata Terrace, Sunshine Bay

Making Scents of Nature

Marking the closing weekend of Te Atamira’s schist installation programme, Stone Moves, by Miranda Bellamy & Amanda Fauteux, they are presenting a compelling demonstration of the hidden scents in the plants that surround us in the Queenstown landscape with local legend Michael Sly from Wilding & Co discussing the journey to his ground-breaking programme Waste to Wilderness. He will provide samples of the scented oils he extracts from local plants, both native and introduced. FREE ENTRY

When: Sunday June 11 at 2pm

Where: Te Atamira, Dart House, Remarkables Park Town Centre, 12 Hawthorne Drive, Frankton

WORKSHOPS

Chain Fitting Workshop

Unsure how to fit chains to your vehicle or wanting a bit of a refresher before the snow arrives? Get a grip this winter and come along to QLDC’s free chain fitting workshop. You can watch roading crews demonstrate how to put chains on, and try put them on yourself under the watchful eye of a pro!

A second workshop will be held in Wānaka on Tuesday 13 June from 11.00am-1.00pm at the Wānaka Recreation Centre carpark.

When: Friday 9 June, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm

Where: Queenstown Events Centre carpark

Workshop - Low Waste LivingHouseholds

Learn more about how you can reduce your household waste and save money doing it at Sustainable Queenstown and Wastebusters’ brand new workshop series - Low Waste Living - Households. The workshops promise to be jam-packed full of idea, tips and practical ways to reduce your food scraps. Topics include Low Waste Shopping, Kitchen Waste, Low Waste Recipes, Bathroom Swaps and Alternatives, General Household Waste Reduction

Get inspired to live a life of less waste, save money and feel good about your impact!

Tickets are $10 and can be purchased on Humanitix.

When: Thurday 15 June, 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Where: Te Atamira, Dart House, Remarkables Park Town Centre 12 Hawthorne Drive, Frankton

COMMUNITY NOTES

Queenstown Trails Update

Trail Lover annual appeal

Queenstown Trails raised an outstanding $50,000, money that will go towards the Arthurs Point to Arrowtown Trail development. Thank you to everyone that donated.

Construction Progress On The Arthurs Point - Arrowtown Trail

The Wharehuanui (Arthurs Point to Arrowtown) Trail has been full steam ahead since the start of February making great progress.

The Trail heading west from Coronet Peak Station Road looks fantastic as it snakes its way along the foot of Coronet Peak – it won’t be long until it pops out at the foot of the new Carry On MTB trail and then onwards to Malaghans Road.

Working in the other direction, the tunnel bypass route from Littles Road is established high in the valley, with some amazing views back down Gorge Road.

The construction team will be focusing on joining the two sections together during the winter months, as well as building retaining walls and establishing a twin-span bridge at Station Creek.

Downstream, along Mill Creek, the crew from Mana Tahuna have done a fantastic job of clearing Willow and replanting with natives, ready for the trail to be established as it reaches Millbrook.

TRAINBRAIN YOUR

1. Which actor played the Nightmare on Elm Street character Freddy Krueger?

2. The ancient city of Palmyra is in which present-day country?

3. Which Arabian cargo ship is distinguished by its lateen sail?

4. What term is used for members of the Egyptian Orthodox Church?

5. Which is the first letter of the Hebrew alphabet?

6. In Abrahamic religions, what are angelic beings of the second order called?

7. What’s the capital of Slovenia?

8. Which famous drink is made in Charente, France?

9. Which Roman emperor made Christianity a state religion?

10. Which sea is between Poland and Sweden?

11. Which Latin term means “from the beginning”?

12. What is the common name of the herb genus Satureja, which has summer and winter varieties?

13. Who played Inspector Clouseau in the 2006 version of The Pink Panther?

14. What type of fruit is a Pink Lady?

15. Which guitarist replaced Syd Barrett in Pink Floyd in 1968?

16. Which finger is referred to as a pinkie?

17. The winner of which national cycle race is awarded a pink jersey?

18. In business, what is a “pink slip"?

19. What gives a Pink Lady cocktail its pink colour?

20. Which singer had a cameo role in the first episode of the seventh series of Game of Thrones?

21. Which children's show featured a scientist called Dr Bunsen Honeydew?

22. What is the largest city on the Baja California peninsula in Mexico?

23. On which continent are the Carpathian Mountains located?

24. Which Portuguese explorer led the first expedition to circumnavigate the world?

breaks

Major new subdivision planned near Jack’s Point

By Paul Taylor

Hanley’s Farm developer RCL has splashed $70 million on a huge block of farmland and plans a massive new subdivision.

The Melbourne-based company has bought 163.4640 hectares of land at Homestead Bay, State Highway 6, Queenstown, neighbouring Jack’s Point.

It will develop between 1,700 and 2,300 residential sections over the next decade, to be on-sold to families, builders and property investors, for the construction of residential dwellings.

That will be music to the ears of Queenstowners looking to build their way on to the property ladder, as so many others have done in subdivisions such as Hanley’s Farm and Shotover Country in recent years.

The land, formerly part of Remarkables Station, is currently being stock grazed for weed control and also used by NZONE skydiving for its airstrip and drop zone.

Originally farmed in the 1860s by the founder of Queenstown, William Gilbert Rees, it is classed as sensitive land and the deal therefore needed Government approval, with RCL making an application to the Overseas Investment Office detailing the benefits.

“The main benefits to New Zealand are likely to include – capital investment of $223.5 million and the creation of approximately 252 jobs,” the OIO decision reads.

“The jobs are both ongoing and temporary roles for the development and the operation of the civic assets that result from the development (retail, schools etc).

“The investment will also contribute to advancing government policies relating to urban development and increased housing.”

Last year, Remarkables Station owners Dick and Jillian Jardine gifted 900ha of the station, mainly on the other side of SH6, to the Queen Elizabeth II National Trust (QEII).

RCL Henley Downs Limited builds residential subdivisions in New Zealand and Australia, and is a subsidiary of RCL Real Estate Pty Limited, which is ultimately owned by the Pyne Gould Corporation Limited. Lakes Weekly Bulletin approached RCL for comment but was told they have “no further information to share about the project at this time”.

The freehold property was marketed by Bayleys Real Estate, along with a separate 27-hectare freehold site close to the water at Maori Jack Road.

“As far as undeveloped land around Queenstown goes, this is the jewel in the crown – potentially the best and last remaining large piece of development land in the entire Wakatipu Basin,” sole agent Chris Campbell of Bayleys Real Estate.

“In terms of scale, location and development potential, this is arguably the most significant opportunity brought to the market in the last 15 to 20 years.

partial car park closure

From 14 June to 20 June

The southern end of the Queenstown Events Centre will be closed for an event from 14 June to 20 June inclusive. If you’re coming to the centre, please keep in mind that parking will be a challenge.

On Saturday 17 June, please consider alternative transport arrangements to arrive at the events centre.

The car park will return to normal from Tuesday 20 June.

“Once developed, Homestead Bay will complement the ongoing developments within Jack’s Point, building critical mass as a centre of activity on Queenstown’s southern corridor.” qldc.govt.nz/recreation

The land at Homestead Bay, off State Highway 6 Kingston Rd

Is currently seeking CHEFS / LINE COOKS

$25 per hour to start, potentially more based on experience

If you're interested in joining one of Queenstown's iconic restaurants and bars email your CV to chris@smithscraftbeer.co.nz or apply in person.

Valid working visa required.

VACANCIES

Building Labourer Wanted

REQUIRED NOW!!!!!! Skilled and Unskilled Labourers Traffic Controllers

Looking for casual, temporary or long term work??

Queenstown Personnel and Labour Hire are looking for labourers for a variety of jobs around Queenstown with an immediate start. Contact Sharleen - 027 778 7377 or email sharleen@qtplabour.co.nz

Pastry Chef

Looking for a talented and creative Pastry Chef to join our strong brigade at Botswana Butchery.

Proven 3 – 5 years experience in a One Hatted environment or similar role. Competitive rates of pay and company perks available.

Please contact Warwick.Taylor@goodgroup.co.nz

We have a number of positions for Ski & Snowboard Rental Staff for the coming season.

Previous experience in the Winter sports industry is preferred. Accommodation available if hired. Email CV & references to apply jobs@snowrental.co.nz

For full time residential building work. Previous experience in the construction industry is required. Competitive hourly rate. Must have full drivers licence and own reliable transport.

Good spoken English essential.

Contact Mike on 027 566 3489 or email mikekelly@tahunabuilding.co.nz

Joiners Wanted

• Must have NZ residency or valid work visa

• Must be trade qualified in cabinetry and timber joinery

• Must have minimum 5 year’s experience in a similar position

• Must hold current full drivers licence

• This is a full-time role

• Remuneration by negotiation is relevant to experience

To apply please email your CV to: queenstown.joinery@xtra.co.nz

Delivery Driver

We require a Fit, Reliable & Enthusiastic person to join our Trade Team. This is a full-time, long-term position & would suit someone with good local knowledge of the area. Class 1 Car Licence only.

Please email your CV to simon.ryder@harrisonbloy.co.nz or phone for a chat – 027 533 3006

Social Media and Frontline Sales Position

Alpine Heliski is looking for a Social Media / Frontline Sales person. The successful applicant will be experienced in video editing and social media content creation. They will possess a sound knowledge of Microsoft Office applications and have previous customer service experience in the tourism industry. The position is full time during the winter season only. Starting approximately 26th June.

Email CV to: ski@alpineheliski.com

Applications close 24th June.

WALTER PEAK HORSE TREKKING GUIDES

Both full & part-time positions available. Awesome job opportunity for someone that loves both horses & the outdoors.

• Must have experience with horses, be hard-working, energetic with exceptional customer service.

• Current First Aid Certificate required OR the ability to obtain one.

• Prepared to work weekends.

• Start 1st week of July

Please send a CV to Lloyd.brown@xtra.co.nz

Sh��� Y��� Fu���� Wi�� U�

We have incredible opportunities in a variety of roles with shifts and hours that will suit whatever you are looking for across our 3 Queenstown properties.

F&B SUPERVISORS –COPTHORNE LAKEFRONT RECEPTIONIST NIGHT AUDITOR/NIGHT PORTER CHEF DE PARTIE SOUS CHEF

Are you sick of working your weekends?

Working long hours and different shifts?

Would you like your Birthday off every year?

Do you like the idea of free medical insurance?

Want a job where you can enjoy some banter with your colleagues and customers?

Then REDPATHS have a job for you!

Trade Counter Role

REDPATHS Queenstown is an Electrical goods wholesaler with branches across the South Island supplying electrical equipment to the trades.

REDPATHS has a full-time role and is looking for an energetic, enthusiastic team member with great communication skills to work with our fantastic customer base and to fit in with our branch team. Applicants must have full time residency.

So, if you’re keen for a change and want to join a fun team and carve a career path within the company email or drop your CV with a covering letter to: sarah.evans@redpaths.co.nz

Jucy Snooze Queenstown are looking for energetic and enthusiastic people to join us in our re opening!

You don’t need experience to work with us! We offer staff benefits from staff accommodation to car rentals and Food & Beverage discounts!

Housekeeping Room Attendant (Starting from $25.00 an hour)

Chef roles (at all levels) Night Manager

Please send through your resume to marcos_diniz@jucysnooze.co.nz

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

and be a part of Republic Hospitality Group

•Tired of being bored at work?

•Want to make your Queenstown life epic!

•Looking to meet a fun and friendly crew?

Republic Hospitality Group has 10 venues in Queenstown, and we offer casual, part-time and full-time work. So whether it’s b bar, , restaurant t or kitchen work you’re interested in, we’ve got it available at all levels

Our perks are pretty hard to beat:

• Staff pricing (did someone say great deals on food & drink?)

• Staff accommodation options

• Epic staff parties

• Great staff incentives

• A trusting culture

• Competitive pay

• Free staff meals

• Training and upskilling

• A welcoming and friendly team

Get in touch and join us today, email HR@republicqt.co.nz and tell us what you’re looking for.

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

FINANCIAL CONTROLLER

First Table is looking for a Financial Controller to help execute our financial strategy.

For a full description on the role, scan the QR code below:

CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER

jet boat driver

Whether you’re already a skilled Jet boat driver or have what it takes to become one; we have an exciting opportunity for a Jet boat driver to join the world’s first commercial Jet boating company.

This is not just a job; it's a lifestyle. You'll be part of a close-knit team, sharing your love for adventure with people from all walks of life. We want passionate individuals who thrive in high-energy environments.

If you're ready to live life in the fast lane, possess some mechanical knowledge, and have a burning desire for adventure, then come and join our team of adrenaline junkies!

For entry level Jet boat drivers, we have a comprehensive training program and so a two-year fixed term contract will apply.

KJet thrill customers year-round, so this full-time position will include weekend and public holiday work.

For more information and to apply please email your CV to brett@kjet.co.nz

Marketing & Design

An exciting opportunity to join an expanding business.

Emphasis on graphic design & branding. Key focus on customer relations & building partnerships. Digital marketing via social media and online platforms.

Key Attributes:

Previous experience in a similar role. An exceptional eye for detail. Excellent interpersonal skills. Adobe Illustrator skills preferred.

To apply please email your CV and cover letter to operations@wolfgroup.nz

Assistant Manager

Required at Super Liquor Remarkables Park Frankton Queenstown. Who we are looking for:

• Full Time position, on weekly roster including nights and weekends.

• General Manager Certificate a must

• Sound Knowledge of product is required.

• Great communication skills

• Must be physically fit and have a sense of humour.

• Attention to detail to ensure our high standards are maintained.

• Able to assist the manager in day-to-day operations of the business, which includes retail sales, stocking, ordering, overseeing functions, stock takes and general daily operations.

Must be honest reliable and have customers sales experience and be willing to learn. Forklift licence an advantage. If you have what we are looking for please contact the manager Heather Wilson at remarkablespark@superliquor.co.nz or call (03) 4429801.

TEACHERS & RELIEVERS

Do you want to be part of a family that prioritises wellbeing and the collective strength of the team?

ATTENDANCE COORDINATOR

The Queenstown Central Lakes Attendance Service is looking for a full - time Attendance Coordinator. The primary purpose of this service is to support ākonga to attend and engage in learning at school.

Location: Central Otago

Responsible to: Attendance Service Manager / Whakatipu Youth Trust General Manager Hours of Work: 40 hours

We are looking for people who:

• Know their local community, iwi and schools.

• Have a deep understanding of the importance of regular school attendance for children and young people.

• Have an understanding of Māori rights and interests, a clear understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and the rights and obligations established by Te Tiriti.

• Demonstrate an understanding, knowledge and experience of tikanga and Te Ao Māori.

• Have a strong understanding of the drivers of irregular and moderate absence and leading practice approaches to support engagement and attendance.

• Be skilled at working collaboratively with others to deliver shared objectives.

• Be confident in analysing and using data to provide insights and support decision making.

• Have strong interpersonal and communication skills including the ability to support and/or influence a wide range of stakeholders.

• Have an ability to build trusting relationships and partnerships to achieve shared outcomes.

The successful applicant will be competent in using databases to connect with schools and monitor ākonga attendance over time. Training and support will be provided. The successful applicant will need to be police vetted.

Please email Kirsty at info@whakatipuyouthtrust.org.nz for the position description and job application form.

Applications close at 5pm on Thursday 8th June 2023

We are looking for teachers and relievers who are passionate about providing education and who share in our ideals.

If you have experience with children and would like to be part of a team that believe that a connection to ourselves, each other and our learning

environments both indoors and out, is essential for learning, this is for you!

We work as a cohesive team, but we also recognise that individual talents and interests are golden!

• Flexible hours

• Competitive remuneration

• No working on weekends!

• A great environment, full of amazing humans who want to make an impact.

Submit your applications to: recruit@gems.net.nz or visit www.gems.net.nz