LWB_Issue_907_Online

LAKES WEEKLY

LOCALLY OWNEDSINCE FOREVER BULLETIN

Share the power

Mayor Glyn Lewers was left to do all the heavy-lifting at Friday’s official opening of the streetscape improvements, giving the main speech after PM Chris Hipkins was a no-show, his flight cancelled due to fog.

That’s perhaps a fitting metaphor for the relationship between local and central government, especially where finances are concerned. Look at the Covid infrastructure handouts. Wellington pledges $35 million for the streetscapes and $50m for the arterial roads, and QLDC has to contribute and, crucially, pick up any budget blowout. For the arterial road, the budget has already increased to a total $109m, with QLDC now paying at least $59m.

I’ve long held the view that there’s a strong power imbalance between local and national government that is both unhealthy and unprofessional. It feels like an adult-child dynamic, where all the real power [read $$s] is held in Wellington and pocket money dished out to local councils if they behave.

Yes, the Government could point to projects such as the Kawarau Falls Bridge, and the $120m improvements to Frankton Road, but state highways are, as you’d imagine, the responsibility of the state, and yet we still had to beg for them to happen. Ultimately the revenue base for local government, the rates, has always been inadequate for the job they have to do, especially in a tourist district like ours.

All local solutions, such as a bed tax, a share of the tourism GST (pigs might fly), increased rates for Airbnb, or the recent suggestions of a tax on unused housing or an airport arrivals tax, ultimately go nowhere. Instead, we’re left to go cap-in-hand for help with the housing crisis and infrastructure, and just wait for improvements to health facilities. Even Three Waters looks to centralise power, rather than back councils with adequate funding.

So, I was pleased to read the Future for Local Government review report, published last week, which appears to be a first step in the right direction. It recommends resetting that relationship and decreasing the power gap - my words, by improving the income base with funding from central government. The report also recommends establishing a Crown entity to manage the relationship, giving local communities a louder voice, which is a great idea, and increasing pay for councillors, who would serve a four-year term, lowering the voting age, and consolidating some councils. All good suggestions, although I think it missed a trick not making voting compulsory, to tackle the pitiful turnout.

Admittedly some local councils will need to lift their game, but a lot of the suggestions put forward in the report IF implemented, could help create a level playing field and a much more robust system of representation that empowers local communities to build local solutions. Let’s see if anything comes of it.

Simon Edmunds and, far left, Lindsay Waterfield with housing / worker protestors at the downtown streets revamp opening ceremony on Friday. See story on page 4.

David Gibbs, QMG

Call for urban growth sites

With projected growth in our population comes increased demand for houses, businesses and supporting infrastructure.

The Spatial Plan Gen 2.0 builds on our earlier work completed in 2021, and will become part of our Future Development Strategy, which is a government requirement for all high growth councils in Aotearoa New Zealand. The purpose of our Spatial Plan is to help us grow well to create urban spaces that don’t just meet our needs but are places we are proud of. It will also guide how our natural environment is protected and enhanced alongside our urban growth.

Where should we grow?

One of the rst steps we are required to take is a public ‘call for sites’.

This is an opportunity to suggest sites and areas that could be considered for future residential and business growth or suggest areas you consider inappropriate for urban development or warrants greater protection.

Keen to get involved?

Head to letstalk.qldc.govt.nz for detailed guidance and more information on this process. This process closes on 16 July 2023.

It’s been a hard slog but we got there

By Paul Taylor

Queenstown’s multi-million-dollar downtown streets revamp was officially opened on Friday.

Prime Minister Chris Hipkins was expected to attend but the persistent fog meant his flight could not land, so Mayor Glyn Lewers stepped up to the mic. Lewers said while the project “took a little bit longer than was originally anticipated”, everyone was “incredibly proud of the result”.

“You only have to walk around the streets on any given day to see countless locals and visitors enjoying a safer, more inviting and more accessible spaces,” he said.

Lewers thanked the local businesses affected by the challenges during twoand-a-half years of construction. They coped with delays, detours, lack of access, dust and noise.

“Thank you for your patience and your openness to tell us when you weren’t feeling so patient, and your perseverance, maintaining business activity in the face of uncertainty.”

Funding for the project was announced by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on a visit back in June 2020, as the tourist town experienced a major downturn due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Covering Beach Street, Lower Beach St, Park St and Brecon St, the work, which included full redesigns with new paving, lights, street furniture, and underground services, was originally expected to cost around $57 million, with Central Government contributing $35m. But the eventual cost was around $66m and the project has proved controversial. Businesses owners expressed frustration about the way it was staged, with work grinding to a halt on half-finished streets, while starting up on others.

Some of the elements, including the gold poles and inlayed pounamu, have also attracted criticism.

Before Friday’s opening ceremony, a small group of housing protestors took to the stage on Lower Beach St, led by Unite Union Otago-Southland organiser Simon Edmunds and Queenstown Housing Initiative leader Lindsay Waterfield.

“Today we’re celebrating the opening of a street lined with golden lampposts and $20k pounamu bricks in a town where people are sleeping in their cars and treated like dirt by some of the employers and landlords in this town,” Edmunds said.

“From our perspective, the most important thing to celebrate is the workers who actually do the work in this town, keep it running and deserve to be treated with respect, to earn decent wages, decent conditions, with a roof over their heads.”

Edmunds lambasted the council for its inactivity on the rental housing crisis, particularly its decision not to fix up vacant cabins in the Lynch Block nearby.

“We’re not going away. We’re going to be here. We live here. Queenstown is ours as well.”

But Lewers, in his speech, celebrated the cultural elements of streetscape project, which include the golden coloured poles and pounamu stones.

“I just want to thank our mana whenua partners for the time and care that has been given to bring a richness and a sense of history and culture to Tāhuna Queenstown’s upgraded streets,” Lewers said.

“Thank you for being here today with us and showing the depth and importance of the cultural elements woven into our streets.”

Lewers also paid tribute QLDC’s former property and infrastructure general manager Peter Hansby, who died during the Christmas holidays, after a battle with cancer.

“Pete was a tireless campaigner for improving the way people lived, worked, travelled and played in the district, and a driving force behind transforming our town centre,” he said.

“This legacy can be seen right across the district, but nowhere more so than in these upgraded streets. As I heard him say many times, ‘the scale of these construction projects is significant and the challenges can feel overwhelming at times, but keep the end goal in mind, it will be worth it’. I think we can safely say that it is.”

Lewers also thanked the massive team involved in delivering the project through Kā Huanui a Tāhuna, the alliance of QLDC, Waka Kotahi, Downer, Fulton Hogan, WSP and Beca.

Mayor Glyn Lewers at the opening ceremony

The recently-completed Rees St renovation

Mum has a great day, everyone has a great day.

Winter’s off with a bang

By Jess Allen

The DFS Winter Fireworks are set to light up the skies over the Whakatipu on Friday 30 June. The fireworks display has been a quintessentially Queenstown start to winter for 45 years and local businesses see the benefits of the fireworks display as it attracts thousands of people. There’s been much excitement around town since the announcement that the fireworks will return after many locals and tourists were sad to see the cancellation of the Winter Fest. The night will feature activities before and after the display and will make for a great family-friendly night out. The event raises funds to support the Love Queenstown community fund, which supports local climate, conservation and biodiversity projects. Million Dollar Cruises have offered up their boat free-of-charge to cruise around the harbour and raise more funds.

Queenstown Business Chamber of Commerce are thrilled for the return of the fireworks, which will help to boost business traffic and encourage visitors to the region.

“We’re excited to see this Winter Festival favourite return for the start of the winter,” says Rachel Clifford at the Chamber. “It’s really great to have locals coming back into the revamped CBD to celebrate as they have in past years and hopefully everyone will have a great family night out. We just want to congratulate DFS for stepping up and making it happen.”

With more events happening throughout the winter including Luma and the Matariki Arrowtown Lights, some other businesses in town have reported that the end of the overall festival isn’t going to hugely affect them, although it is a shame to lose it. One business in town said that they’re looking forward to the fireworks as it brings excitement and crowds to town, although that this time of year is generally busier for them anyway. T Galleria are encouraging local businesses to join in the celebration – with the numbers expected to attend, it will be hard for Queenstown’s establishments to avoid being a part of the festivities.

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Steamer Wharf have some of the best views for the fireworks display and houses 12 restaurants, many of which are perfect vantagepoints – such as Pier, Pub on Wharf, Atlas and Boardwalk. The wharf monitor foot traffic and revenues, which in the past increase with events like this. Johnny Stevenson at Steamer Wharf has reported that it’s been particularly quiet lately and believes that the event is totally worth it and that it’s “good bang for your buck.”

“It’s great, in the absence of the Winter Fest as we knew it,” says Johnny. “We need a new event that signifies the start – everybody is really excited about the ski season. It’s a great night to pull everybody together and families to come in. We’re really supportive of it.”

“We’ve had our first shoulder season in a couple of years – we forgot that we had shoulders, but it was brought back quite abruptly, the way it has been for 20 years but we sort of forgot; apart from that great big shoulder when we were all locked at home. It’s getting its normal rhythm back and everyone I talk to is really supportive of the fireworks. It’s an event that marks the change of the oncoming season. You can feel it around town as you walk around the streets – everybody’s really buzzing.”

Queenstown Lakes District Council are also enthusiastic about the buzz and excitement that brings winter in Queenstown to life. QLDC Relationship Manager, Arts & Events Jan Maxwell says that “A fireworks display has been part of how our community welcomes winter for many years so it’s wonderful to see this continue. It’s a celebration that all ages can enjoy for free, and a spectacle loved by locals and visitors alike.”

The fireworks display will kick off ignite the sky at 6:30pm on 30 June and will feature a local entertainers, street performers, and pop-up stalls along the waterfront.

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Migrant workers being exploited, Queenstown Citizens Advice Bureau says

By RNZ, Tim Brown, Otago-Southland Reporter - tim.brown@rnz.co.nz

Dozens of migrant workers are being exploited by Queenstown employers who are not meeting the minimum conditions required by their visas, the Queenstown Citizens Advice Bureau says.

The workers’ visas are tied to their employers and they are afraid to speak out, bureau manager Tracy Pool said.

Federico Planes and Abraham Ruz had been working for a Queenstown cleaning company under Accredited Employer Work Visas when the company was sold earlier this year.

Almost immediately problems started with the new boss expecting a higher standard of work in less time and often without providing equipment like gloves and cleaning chemicals.

What was expected of them was absurd, Planes said.

“It’s impossible. It’s stressful. He wants us to clean better, faster, he doesn’t want to have complaints. It’s crazy,” he said.

The new boss was also not paying them when they travelled between clients, often rostered their work hours on the morning of the working day, underpaid them for the hours worked, and did not provide the 30 hours of paid employment guaranteed by their visas, he said. But if they complained, they risked losing their jobs, and therefore would have to leave New Zealand, Planes said.

“It’s stressful, because we leave our country, we are 15,000 kilometres away. We came here to enjoy life - it’s very stressful,” Planes said, choking back tears.

Abraham Ruz said he left his homeland of Chile because of a lack of financial opportunities and because the country was not safe.

“I want to stay here for a long, long time because it’s friendly. It’s safe,” he said.

“But for the moment, I just need work because work is money, it’s a visa. Really, I don’t want to return to Chile.”

Both men wanted to remain in New Zealand and so felt trapped even when being taken advantage of.

Connie, who obtained temporary residency after working in New Zealand for five years, said migrant workers, particularly those from the developing world, were seen as cheap labour and treated more like a commodity, rather than as people.

“People feel trapped in the work because of all it involves to come here with a visa, and if you have your family attached to that visa, even if you’re having a bad time in the work, you’re just going to stay there,” she said.

Tracy Pool said migrant workers came to Queenstown because it was where the Accredited Employer Work visas were available.

Most employers followed the rules but dozens of migrant workers in the resort town were tied to bad employers and they could not risk speaking out, she said.

“They’ve got no backstop. There’s no unemployment. They don’t qualifythere’s none of that,” Pool said.

“And then if they’ve got partnerships tied to them, then their partners also lose their job because their visa is also cancelled. Their visa is based on the worker’s visa.”

It was a deeply unfair system which was ripe for exploitation, she said.

“You can take advantage of that because they’re basically tied to you and good employers look after them - and the majority of them do - but some of them just don’t. They Accredited Employer system was meant to help with that - it hasn’t.”

It was obvious why workers would not speak out to immigration authorities, since if their employer lost accreditation it would mean the workers lost their visas, Pool said.

Queenstown Housing Initiative co-founder Hannah Sullivan said the problems were compounded in Queenstown where housing was desperately short and migrant workers accommodation was also often linked to their employer. “Right now people are being exploited, because it’s better than what they can go back to,” Sullivan said.

More than half of those in touch with the initiative were migrant workers, she said.

One person from Chile was crammed into a bedroom which had been divided into three and was paying over $200 per week.

“They said ‘I can’t go home because there’s nothing for me there, it’s not safe where I live’, so they’ll take anything they can get and it’s so sad,” Sullivan said.

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) verification and compliance general manager Richard Owen said INZ expected employers to comply with visa conditions, and there were penalties for those who did not.

“We take any allegations of migrant exploitation and fraud seriously and we routinely investigate businesses for compliance with immigration laws,” Owen said, in a statement.

“The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) was introduced in July 2022 to provide a three-step pathway for hiring migrants and replace six other visas. The visa supports employers to get the workers they need without disadvantaging New Zealanders, and ensures migrant workers are given the same employment protection as New Zealanders.

“Under AEWV, we conduct post-accreditation checks on accredited employers. These checks can occur at any time post-accreditation. As part of the application process, employers are advised that there may be followup checks to ensure that the undertakings and declarations that they make during the application are correct and they are a good migrant employer.

“As of today, we have identified approximately 36 employers of potential concern involving migrant workers holding either AEWV or a Recovery visa. We are not in a position to comment on how many individuals are impacted at this stage nor will we be commenting on any current investigations.”

Abraham Ruz (left) and Federico Planes worked in Queenstown under Accredited Employer Work Visas. Photo: RNZ / Tim Brown

FOUND

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

• MADELAINE WILSON – cardholder

•GEORGE MCDONALD – cardholder

• MacBook Air silver, located on one of the fields at the Events Centre

•iPhone, dark blue in black case

•Grey DJI drone, located in the Queenstown Gardens

•Gold (gents) ring with numerous different coloured stones, found at Deer Park Heights

•White gold ring with diamonds, located in New World carpark

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QUEENSTOWN DHARMA CENTRE, 12 LAKE ST. WED (28 June), @ 6:30pm, “Calm Mind, Open Heart” with Grant Rix; SUN (1 July), from 2:30pm - 5:30pm, Amnyi Trulchung Rinpoche’s monthly guidance on “A Guide to the Way of Life of a Bodhisattva.” Sessions are free with dana for the centre/teacher gratefully accepted. More info on dharmacentre.org.nz or FB.

KIDS CRAFT CLUB: AFTER A SERIES OF successful ‘Crafternoons’ at The Sherwood in Queenstown last school holidays. Crafternoon is back at The Sherwood these school holidays. Wednesday 5 July 1030am - 1pm - Make a Teddy Bear Workshop. natalieperks.com

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LUNCHTIME TALK WITH QUEENSTOWN LAKES COMMUNITY HOUSING Trust. Join us at Queenstown Library with Julie Scott for a Q&A session to hear more about the Trust’s housing programmes and upcoming developments. Visit the QLDC Libraries website for more information. Friday 30 June, 12.00pm –12.40pm at the Queenstown Library, Gorge Road

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QUEENSTOWN BACKGAMMON CLUB. COME AND JOIN US for our fortnightly Backgammon night on Thursday 29th @ the Crown in Frankton from 6:30pm. All skill levels welcome. Bring a board if you have one, we hope to see you there

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

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:altrusaqueenstown@gmail.com or message us on Facebook.com/AltrusaQueenstown

KIWI HARVEST WINTER FOOD CAMPAIGN IS UNDERWAY. You can help by donating items for you shop or extra items from your pantry. Food trolleys are available at most local supermarkets. Learn more online at kiwiharvest.org.nz/central-lakes-wintercampaign

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!

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.

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Say goodbye to the poo ponds

By Paul Taylor

As the streetscapes is completed, another is infrastructure project about to get underway.

Stage three of the work to upgrade Shotover Wastewater Treatment Plant is set to start in August 2023.

QLDC General Manager Property & Infrastructure, Tony Avery says the $37.5 million project will further improve wastewater capacity in the district and provide for future growth through to the year 2048.

“These upgrades will see the construction of a second Modified LudzackEttinger (MLE) reactor and clarifier down by Shotover Delta, and a range of new equipment, technology and supporting infrastructure to help keep the district’s pipes flowing,” he says.

The current treatment process using residual oxidation pond systems - which everyone knows as ‘the poo ponds’ - will no longer be required once work is complete, with the new process handled by the two MLE reactors.

Avery says treating wastewater with the reactors would ensure long-term

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compliance as more people chose to make the Whakatipu Basin their home, helping to protect the environment and meeting tighter effluent consent limits if required by Otago Regional Council (ORC) in the future.

“Furthermore, one of the existing oxidation ponds on site will be repurposed as part of the works, with a portion to be used as a basin for improved stormwater management on site.

“Another area will be converted to act as a calamity storage pond for the extremely rare occasion when the treatment plant might go offline unexpectedly.”

The plant serves Queenstown, Arthurs Point, Frankton, Kelvin Heights, Quail Rise, Shotover Country, Lake Hayes Estate, Lake Hayes, and Arrowtown. Once complete, it will receive additional wastewater flows from Jacks Point Village, Hanley Farm, Ladies Mile and an extension of the Quail Rise residential development area.

Contractor McConnell Dowell expects to complete the work by late 2025, before commissioning of the new plant infrastructure follows in early 2026. The MSC has also prepared a Gillespie Pass video which provides more information on how to plan and prepare for the track

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Shotover Wastewater Treatment Plant

Nuestra Voz

By Deniella Díaz Soto

This week we have started a weekly Latin column for all our Spanish Speaking kiwis and visitors who now call Queenstown home regardless of whether that’s from today or 10 years ago

Some times English as a second language is hard or its just that you miss seeing your language written so we are collaborating with Deniella Díaz Soto to produce a weekly Latin column.

For the frist piece, we’ve printed the English translation so everyone gets to see what the tone and content of the column will be like.

Por Daniela Díaz Soto ddiazsoto@gmail.com

NUESTRA VOZ

¡Bienvenidas y bienvenidos a este nuevo espacio dedicado a nuestra comunidad latina en Queenstown!

Por primera vez en la historia de Lakes Weekly Bulletin, los latinos tendremos acceso a una columna completamente en español, con el objetivo de acercarnos más a lo que sucede en esta importante ciudad de la Isla Sur de Nueva Zelanda, la cual muchos consideramos ya nuestro hogar.

La adaptación a un nuevo idioma y cultura es, sin duda, uno de los mayores desafíos que enfrentamos como inmigrantes. Por ello, es importante contar con un lugar donde podamos expresarnos y compartir nuestras experiencias, para sentirnos más conectados con nuestra Latinoamérica y los países de habla hispana que nos unen. Y a medida que crecemos en número y presencia en Queenstown, es vital tener una plataforma donde nuestros aportes sean valorados.

Cada uno de ustedes, queridos lectores, ha tenido una experiencia única al dejar su zona de confort, abordar un avión y despedirse de sus familias y amigos para embarcarse en una aventura en un país completamente ajeno a lo que conocemos.

La valentía de dejar atrás a nuestra gente y nuestras propias tradiciones es lo que nos une. Por lo tanto, los invito a acudir a esta columna cada semana, donde compartiré historias de vida de miembros de la comunidad en Queenstown, información relevante sobre cómo obtener ayuda, consejos para adaptarse mejor a aquellos que se están integrando recientemente a la ciudad, recursos y personas a las que podemos recurrir cuando nuestra salud mental se ve afectada, así como una amplia gama de actividades entretenidas que se llevan a cabo localmente, para que podamos sentirnos un poco más cerca de nuestra rica cultura.

Para aquellos que están comenzando esta travesía y todavía enfrentan dificultades con el inglés, espero que este espacio les sea útil para encontrar ayuda y soluciones que les permitan adaptarse mejor. Recuerden que la calidez de los latinos es inmensa y muchos de nosotros aquí podemos ayudarles para que poco a poco se sientan como en casa. Y para quienes ya llevan tiempo aquí o que ya son residentes, los invito a compartir sus historias y espero que también se sientan representados con lo que ofreceremos cada semana en esta importante revista local.

Quiero expresar mi agradecimiento a Lakes Weekly por permitirnos formar parte de ella y así llegar a más personas de la comunidad, especialmente a aquellos que a veces se ven limitados por la barrera del idioma o por la distancia de los temas que no nos representan en su totalidad.

Juntos, celebremos la riqueza de nuestra herencia cultural, la integración, conexión y fortalezcámonos mutuamente para dejar un impacto duradero en nuestro querido Queenstown. Nuestra comunidad es cercana, amable, solidaria y, sobre todo, cálida. Somos latinos y esta... es Nuestra Voz.

Translation:

Welcome to this new space dedicated to our Latin community in Queenstown!

For the first time in the history of Lakes Weekly Bulletin, Latinos will have access to a column completely in Spanish, with the aim of getting closer to what is happening in this important town on the South Island of New Zealand, which many of us already consider our home.

Adapting to a new language and culture is undoubtedly one of the biggest challenges we face as immigrants. For this reason, it is important to have a place where we can express ourselves and share our experiences, to feel more connected with our Latin America and the Spanish-speaking countries that unite us. And as we grow in number and presence in Queenstown, it is vital to have a platform where our contributions are valued.

Each of you, dear readers, has had a unique experience leaving your comfort zone, boarding a plane and saying goodbye to your family and friends to embark on an adventure in a country completely foreign to what we know. The courage to leave our people and our own traditions behind is what unites us. Therefore, I invite you to come to this column every week, where I will share life stories from members of the community in Queenstown, relevant information on how to get help, tips to better adapt to those who are new to the city, resources and people we can turn to when our mental health is affected, as well as a wide range of fun activities that take place locally, so we can feel a little closer to our rich culture.

For those who are starting this journey and still face difficulties with English, I hope that this space will be useful for you to find help and solutions that will allow you to adapt better. Remember that the warmth of Latinos is immense and many of us here can help you so that little by little you feel at home. And for those who have been here for a while or who are already residents, I invite you to share your stories and I hope that you also feel represented with what we will offer each week in this important local magazine.

I want to express my gratitude to Lakes Weekly for allowing us to be part of it and thus reach more people in the community, especially those who are sometimes limited by the language barrier or by distance from the issues that do not represent us in their whole. Together, let’s celebrate the richness of our cultural heritage, integration, connection and empower each other to leave a lasting impact in our beloved Queenstown.

Our community is close, friendly, supportive and, above all, warm. We are Latinos and this... is Nuestra Voz.

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Calls to bring back winter festival of old…

By Sue Fea

Calls to bring back the original community-style Queenstown Winter Festival aimed at providing fun for locals have the backing of many of the festival’s early founders and organisers, happy to get involved. With no festival this year, delighted fireworks fans responded favourably to luxury shopping brand T Galleria by DFS’ announcement of a fireworks celebration on June 30 to herald the start of winter. That’s sparked calls from festival-loving locals to bring back the real deal, started almost 50 years ago in 1975, as was the intention then, focusing on locals, no big budgets needed. Legendary long-time Queenstown events man and entertainer Peter Doyle, who first came up with the idea of a Winter Festival over a beer with then Eichardt’s publican Laurie Wilde, says it can be done.

Others who created hugely successful festival events in the early days agree.

“It can be organised like we used to with a bunch of locals doing it for the community without spending huge amounts of money,” says Peter. The first festival was held in the first week of August to create winter fun for locals. Over the years the event morphed into a vehicle to attract visitors to the town, held in late June targeting school holidays, with airlines among the major sponsors. ”It was never designed to herald the start of winter or attract people,” says Peter. Visitors in town would love it though, grabbing a good vantage point for hilarious events like the Cow Pat Throwing Competition, Waiters’ Race, Spaghetti Eating, Birdman, Splash For Cash, Dog Barking, Gumboot Tossing and Drag Race – a lunchtime must featuring some very convincing, well known Queenstown males.

“We just held a bit of a meeting each year and clubs and organisations like the rugby club and Lions put up an idea each then ran their own event, sometimes as a fundraiser.”

“The Mardi Gras was a wonderful family-style fundraiser for the likes of school PTA’s running apple crumble stalls.”

“You can do an awful lot for nothing if you can get the community behind you,” says Peter. “As soon as you start paying organisations everybody wants some money and the thing dies.” If the district council got on board waiving some of the fees for venues and grounds it would be very cheap to run.”

Now in his 70s it’s time for ‘new blood’ but he’s happy to offer any expertise that’s needed if the community wants to revive the festival of old. Two key ingredients – an opening fireworks display – ‘that’s what the festival is’, and a celebration like a ball, he says. “The Old Farts Ball was the locals’ event.”

“It’s not that hard. You can still do these things despite OSH and insurances. There would be no need to apply for street closures for the likes of Mardi Gras with the streets now pedestrianised.”

One festival fan has even suggested a ‘cone sculpture’ contest to give the programme a 2020s vibe.

Ann and John Mann ran hit festival shows aimed at locals over 10 days for 19 years – the hugely popular Old Farts Ball, sell-out Top Bloke, restoring many a fractured male ego on stage, Outrageous Arts and Family Arts and Variety Shows drawing hundreds. Their Senior Citizens’ three-course lunch, tables waited by local schoolkids, covered all sectors of the community. “I’ve been gobsmacked at the thanks still from the numbers in the community we’ve touched,” says Ann. If the right people wanted to be involved she’d love to help organise something just for the community. “Our formats worked.” Local businesses were always happy to stump up a Top Bloke entrant. “Every moment was outrageous,” grins Ann. Slowly locals were taken over by more corporate events, she says. “I believe events for the town are best if they’re put together by locals. Even if everybody put some energy into some small thing it would be amazing.”

Former Queenstown Promotion Bureau general manager Fraser Skinner took over the festival for a while with employer Skyline’s support before it was run by the QPB during his time there, then handed to its first paid co-ordinator, Phillipa Moore, in 1987. The first Mardi Gras was held in Queenstown Mall in 1980 during Fraser’s reign with the street party crowd all handed rubbish bags to clean up afterwards.

Founding Queenstown Promotion Board president Stuart Maclean says gradually the event was used to attract visitors to the town. “I suspect it then became a lot more professional and didn’t have the silly things, but sometimes being silly can be fun.”

The last 10-day Winter Festival was held in 2018 costing $1million and DQ boss Mat Woods says DQ was no longer able to underwrite it.

A 4-day Welcome to Winter celebration was held in 2019, but Covid interruptions have meant the festival hasn’t been held since.

Fans have suggested a meeting be called soon for those interested in restarting a locals’ festival for next year.

Fraser Skinner (in turquoise blue) compering the Queenstown Winter Festival Cow Pat Throwing Competition in the 1980s

Doug (foreground) and Britiannia co-owner Roger Goddard (left rear) during a Queenstown Winter Festival Parade in the 1980s

Crowds pack into O’Connell’s Pavilion back in the day for the popular Queenstown Winter Festival Spaghetti Eating Contest. Peter Doyle compering (centre)

Arts+Culture

Remarkables Market Winter Season

By Jess Allen

The cold won’t stop Remarkables Markets, who are ramping up for their busy winter season with two mid-winter events happening during the school holidays on the 1st and 8th of July. They run a total of five markets across the season, with the Luma markets kicking it all off at the start of June. Each event brings a bit of magic and different vibes to the community.

In addition to the school holiday markets, they also hold a Mākete Matariki market and a Winter Pride one to round off their season. They’re located in the same spot along Hawthorne Drive, and start slightly later at 10am. Stallholders range from ceramic mugs to cosy knits, coffee, skincare, crafts, sweet treats and savoury delights.

“It’s quite different,” says Sherryn Smith of the markets. “Lots of visitors, lots of hot food and drink. We’ve got a bar operating with Crimson Badger, who have mulled wine and mulled Ginger Bear that people can have a wee sip on. There’s lots of soups and a whole variety of hot stuff to have.

“There’s still craft and there’s been a lot of vintage clothing, but we don’t have as many fruit and veggie stalls, just because there’s not much in the garden at the moment. We have got Nevis Gardens coming, who have some locally-grown produce. Lots of things you won’t see in the summer are coming out for these ones.”

You can stay warm and huddle around the fire pits that will be going at each market, while you enjoy some warming kai. The winter fairy will also be floating about between 11 and 1. Expect to see different stalls as holders come as and when they can. For the Matariki markets, there will be a high school Kapa Haka and some special activities. For Winter Pride the police will stop by with their rainbow car and the Youth Booth will be their Spectrum Programme.

“They’re just a really nice community vibe and they’re different. People come down and they want to mingle, they want something free to do that’s a little bit different. Definitely dress warmly – wear

Getting Quizical in Glenorchy

your boots and your puff jackets. It is completely different to the Summer,” says Sherryn.

The Remarkables Market will run their winter markets throughout the season on Hawthorne Drive before returning to regular programming in late September. They have free parking, an ATM on site and dogs are welcome on leads. You can find out more about what markets are happening, who the stallholders will be and when they’re taking place at facebook.com/RemarkablesMarket/

Glenorchy’s fundraising winter quiz series will wrap up next Wednesday, raising much-needed funds for the Early Childhood Education Centre that is going ahead in the area. The centre is something they’ve been fundraising for, for a couple of years now and is something the community desperately needs. While it will be the sixth week of the event, it is open to all and you don’t need to have participated in past events to get involved. The fun event has been running for several years now with last year’s efforts helping to create a reusable nappy bank for families in the community.

“It’s just a pretty friendly competition and more about the spirit of the community, having a good time at the pub, and having a couple of laughs,” says Jessica Burke of Glenorchy. “It’s a good excuse to get out of the house as the weather starts to turn and people start staying inside a little more, and just to get out into the community, support a local business and have a bit of fun.”

The group also have a GiveaLittle page to donate to the project itself. Jessica says “We’ve just built a big thermometer sign where you can see how much money has been raised so far, which is kind of exciting. It’s nice to see that visual representation of what we’ve been working towards because we have been doing a lot of smaller fundraisers, but they’re adding up in a really big way.”

Quizmaster Grimmer has been hosting quizzes for around 15 years – the quiz will be at the Glenorchy Hotel at 7pm sharp – Jess recommends getting there a little early to secure a table. You can donate at givealittle.co.nz/org/glenorchy-playgroup-incorporated

The The Bunker

Friday

Tuesday $1 Wings*

Wednesday All-You-Can-Eat Meat $35pp*

Thursday $12.95 Schnitty*

27 JUNE- 3 JULY

Saturday

FADE BLACK (UK)

with support from MAG:Low, Khz Collective, Mixed Motive, JAcked & Big Tuna Sounds

Saturday Oktoberfest

Saturday! $38 menu package & $15 steins*

Every day Try our Bav Fest!

2 hours beverage package & all you can eat meat $89

Monday $12.95 Burgers*

Tuesday Worlds Adventure Movie Nights, Screening: Women’s Adventure Gettin Bongers with Dj Tom Bongers, 9pm

Wednesday Silent Disco, 9.30pm Two Venues, Three Colours, Three Channels, Three DJs

Thursday Funky Spunky with Mitch EP 9 pm

Friday Chewed out with Stubacca 9pm

mates, play whatever!

Saturday Hullabaloo with Lew 9pm

Sunday Sunday Sessions with Danny Atkinson, 5pm Late Nights with DJ Yuki, 9pm

Friday Girzzly’s House, Disco & House Classics 5pm

Monday Mischief Managed with DJ Tess 9 pm

Saturday Silkworm’s Punk Night 5pm

GOINGS ON ABOUT

EVENTS - MUSIC - ART THEATRE - AT THE GALLERIES

NZ Mountain Film Fest

FILM

If you love adventure, the NZ Mountain Film & Book Festival is for you. The NZ Mountain Film Festival is a celebration of adventurous sports and lifestyles presented for film and book enthusiasts, intrepid explorers and armchair adventurers of all ages. This year’s line-up once again features film premieres and presentations from inspiring adventurers and film makers. For tickets go online to mountainfilm.nz/tickets/

When: Thursday, June 29, 7:30pm to 10:30pm

Friday, 30 June, 3.30pm to 6:00pm and 7.30pm to 10:30pm

There is a FREE family show on Friday, 30 June, 1:30pm to 2:30pm

Where: Queenstown Memorial Centre, 1 Memorial Drive

COMMUNITY

Queenstown Mountain Bike Club AGM

QTMBC is inviting its members to their Annual General Meeting. The meeting will celebrate the highlights from the 2022/2023 season as well as discuss the plans for next season. Young and old, kids and families, beginner to pro!

If you have a passion for riding and would like to get involved, we’d love to hear from you! We need all sorts of skills and experience from across the community. From legal to finance, events to coaching & development, health & safety, environment and conservation and of course trails! Save the date and bring along every friend you have.

When: Tuesday 27 June, at 6:30pm

Where: Holiday Inn & Express Suites Queenstown (Cnr Stanley & Sydney Street)

Green Drinks presents Green Energy

This month’s Green Drinks is exploring how nonfossil fuel energy can be found in different sources, industries or uses and how we can use them and why we should use them. Following three short presentations Ground Up Brewing will be putting on a related pub quiz with the chance to win some prizes!

Speakers from H.W.Richardsons, NZ’s largest transport company, that has introduced a hydrogen-diesel dual-fuel truck and representatives from Wanaka Solar talking about solar energy, then Forest Lodge Orchard, the world’s first 100% electric, zero fossil fuel orchard will also provide a remote presentation.

When: Friday, 30 June, at 5:00pm

Where: Ground Up Brewing @ 4 Gordon Rd, Wanaka

Digital Drop In

Do you need a helping hand with your digital devices?

Pop in, give us a call, email or join a drop in session. We might ask a few questions about your issue beforehand so that we can plan to get the most out of your session. The team at the libraries are not tech experts, just friendly librarians with good IT skills. We’ll do our best to fix your problem, but on occasion we will direct you to the experts. Sessions are free.

For Queenstown appointment email: queenstown.library@qldc.govt.nz

For Frankton appointment email: frankton.library@qldc.govt.nz

For Wanaka No need to book, just drop on in on the day!

What do I need to bring?

Bring your digital device and your questions.

Where are the sessions held?

The sessions are held at Frankton and Queenstown Library by appointment and at the Wānaka Library every Thursday between 4pm and 5.30pm

Lunchtime Talk with Queenstown Lakes Community Housing Trust

The Lakes Community Housing Trust is an independent, not-for-profit, community owned organisation and CEO Julie Scott is on hand at the Queenstown Library for a Q&A session and will discuss the Trust’s housing programmes and upcoming developments. The QLDC Libraries website has more information.

When: Friday, 30 June, 12:00pm – 12:40pm

Where: Queenstown Library, Gorge Road

Free Inland Revenue Workshops

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

GST - what is GST, GST registration, record keepingcash book, basic adjustments, Register online at www.ird.govt.nz - enter the keywords- seminars Queenstown into the search box.

When: Wednesday, 28 June, at 10:30am

Where: Queenstown Work and Income Building, 11 Remarkables Park Town Centre, Frankton

Tourism Environment Workshop

The draft Environment Action Plan has been developed to help transform tourism in New Zealand to a regenerative model. Ensuring the tourism industry protects and restores the environment is important because the natural environment/te taiao is central to our attraction as a destination. The mission is to help restore the mauri of our climate and environment by achieving carbon zero targets and embracing a regenerative approach. This FREE workshop is open to anyone who’s interested in the natural environment and transforming the tourism industry to a regenerative model that has a positive impact on te taiao. It will be semi-structured and interactive so you can share your views and learn from others about what they’re doing to sustain the natural environment. They’ll also briefly summarise the draft Environment Action Plan.

When: Wednesday, 28 June, 1:30pm - 2:30pm

Where: Queenstown Resort College Boardroom, 7 Coronation Drive

Frothy & Friends Winter Edition

A delicious cabaret of drag, burlesque, song, beat boxing and hilarity hosted by Queenstowns favourite Queen, to cosy up and celebrate the onset of Winter in Queenstown’s favourite live venue Yonder. Hosted by Frothy La Frou Frou. Performers include Andy Cat, Bete Noire, Shaggy La Poof, Heaven Z’dor and Jack Swallows. Prizes for best dressed, so come dressed to impress.

When: Sunday, 2 July, 7:30pm – 10:00pm

Where: Yonder, 14 Church St, Queenstown

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

EVENT

DFS Winter Fireworks

It’s been a few years since the last Winter Fireworks so T Galleria by DFS announcement that they are sponsoring Queenstown Winter Fireworks return has been greeted with plenty of enthusiasm. Wrap up warmly to join the free downtown fireworks celebrations from 5:30pm onwards with the fireworks at 6.30pm. There will be giveaways, street performances, pop-up stalls, and other l surprises including kids’ activities and local entertainers.

The event will also embrace the Love Queenstown community fund supporting local climate, conservation and biodiversity projects that make an impact. This will include a Love Queenstown photo competition with prizes from DFS, and a silent auction with proceeds going to the fund.

When: Friday 30 June, 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm

Where: Queenstown Bay foreshore

Saturday Night Ski Party

The first Saturday Night Ski of the season is on this week! Enjoy the floodlit slopes, the best après around and tunes on the deck from local DJs.

Saturday Night Ski Parties are on for the three Saturdays in the July school holidays (1, 8 and 15 July). If you’re planning to ski or ride, you’ll need a 3 Peak Pass or Night Ski Pass.

When: Saturday, 1 July, 4:00pm to 9:00pm

Where: Coronet Peak Ski Area

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!

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, 1 July, from 5pm

Where: AJ Hackett Kawarau Bungy Centre, Gibbston Highway

Matariki Ball

Matariki represents a time of renewal, reflection, and gathering. The NZBTT draws upon the spirit of the Matariki celebration to come together and celebrate Matariki and bring hope for the future with the Matariki Ball. Special guest is TVNZ Presenter Daniel Faitaua. Astrophysicist Jonathan Squire will tell us about the Matatiki stars and following fine food and wine, a live auction will include local delicacies, adventures and art. Live local band LASocial will ensure your toes are tapping or dancing.

Why? Brain tumours are one of the most challenging and complex medical conditions & over 400 new cases of brain cancer are diagnosed each year. Treatment is challenging and success rates unpredictable. All proceeds from the evening go towards improving brain tumour treatment and helping patients and families affected.

When: Saturday, 8 July, 6:30pm–11:55pm

Where: Millennium Hotel, Cnr Frankton Road and Stanley Street

Remarkables Mid-Winter Markets

Special mid-winter market days with over 50 stalls offering a wide variety of local and regional delights. Warm up with mulled wine/ginger beer, coffee, hot chocolates and an amazing array of bruch and lunch options. Live music and you might even see the Winter Faery. Dress warmly!

When: Saturday, 1 & 8 July, from 10:00am to 2:00pm

Where: Red Oaks Drive & Hawthorne Drive Corner, Remarkables Park

MARKETS

COMMUNITY NOTES

1000 Books Before School

by Sam Schraag and Shana Makuta, Whakatipu and Upper Clutha Libraries

Since launching the self-guided, early literacy programme in November 2022, more than 325 babies have registered and eleven families have completed the 1000 books challenge, with many more getting closer every day.

The 1000 Books Before School programme aims to foster a love of books and learning in our tamariki, by encouraging early reading to babies and toddlers (newborn to five years). Reading aloud for just 10 minutes each day – approximately three picture books – provides tamariki with a significant increase in their readiness for school, exposure to diverse vocabulary, amazing opportunities for snuggles and bonding with caregivers, and sets the stage for an early and long-lasting literacy skills.

The Queenstown Lakes District library teams are ecstatic with the support they have received from the community, and local families are responding to the programme with enthusiasm.

Plunket helps to promote the 1000 Books Programme in our district through their Plunket Rooms and regular baby programmes. The Southland Literacy Association includes our flyers in their newborn packs distributed at the Queenstown Maternity suite as part of the Books for Babies scheme. We are also promoted by the Queenstown Lakes Baby Box Charitable Trust, which provides any newborn with baby supplies.

Community donations funded our professionally printed programme booklets, as well as our beautiful achievement stickers, certificates, and learning collateral for families. The 1000 Books Before School was launched with a celebration event at the Remarkables Farmer’s Market and in March, we organised a sign-up drive and celebration at the Wanaka A&P show, specifically targeting families in the Upper Clutha area. Both celebrations helped raise awareness about the program and sign lots of families up to the programme, supporting children’s learning across the district.

News of the programme’s success has traveled far and wide, with the Napier Library, Ashburton Library and the Rotary Club of Taieri keen to launch their own version of 1000 Books Before School for their communities!

Keen to get your baby or toddler involved? 1000 Books Before School is open to all members of the Queenstown Lakes District Libraries and is free! Ask at your local library branch or visit our library website at https://codc-qldc. govt.nz/kids-teens/kids/1-000-books-before-school for more information.

Reduce, refuse, reuse. What are we doing and how far have we come?

by Abbey Lewis, Wanaka Wastebusters

Reusable bottles and bags are the norm now, and we’re on the way with reusable cups, but what about BYO containers or repairing rather than replacing? Wastebusters want to know if, and how, you reduce, refuse or reuse as they ask for input into their third Resourceful Communities survey

The survey aims to identify the barriers that prevent people in the Queenstown Lakes district from reducing and reusing, and is open now until Thursday, June 30th.

It will ask about a range of behaviours and takes around 10-15 minutes to complete. There are also some great spot prizes to be won.

Wastebusters gleaned some valuable insights into their community’s

behaviours and concerns from the first two surveys undertaken in 2019 and 2021.

“We learned that people in our region are deeply concerned about waste and the impact it has on our environment, but this concern is not always reflected in their shopping behaviours,” Wastebusters project manager Sophie Ward said.

“We noticed changes in behaviour between the 2019 and 2021 surveys and now it has been two years we are curious to see if habits and trends have changed”

Everyone who completes the survey before June 30th can go in the draw to win some great prizes, including a Cardrona day pass, a Queenstown Bike Park pass, a Revology goodie bag, and more!

Wastebusters will release a report on the survey results in July

There will also be fare changes for registered Bee Card passengers from 1 July:

•Half-price child fares for 13-18 year olds

•Half-price adult fares for 19-24 year olds

•$2 full-price adult fares for 25+ year olds

SuperGold Card holders will continue to have an off-peak concession with their registered Bee Card (during peak times, a single fare will be $2).

The Community Connect concession, which offers half-price fares to Community Services Card holders using a registered Bee Card, also starts on 1 July.

Learn more about the upcoming bus fare changes:

by Sue Fea

My Life Story

LYALL MCGREGOR

An entertainment icon and still rocking it at 77

He’s an entertainment icon, playing ukelele publicly from age seven, backing NZ’s leading 1960s and 70s stars and even jamming with singer-actress Bette Midler.

Still rocking it at 77, ask Lyall McGregor though what his most memorable music moment is and he fights back the emotion. “I was invited to sing with a crowd of cancer survivors after the 24-Hour Relay For Life fundraiser at Lake Hayes,” he says. “I sang ‘Here Comes The Sun’ as they each lit a candle. It was very moving.”

Born in Dunedin in 1946, Lyall’s been playing guitar and singing for 70 years. He completed his Linotype operator apprenticeship at the Otago Daily Times just as the systems were computerised. Music then became his main earner. “We played ukelele at the bowling clubs, graduating to the high school band – The Discords, in demand at popular Bible School dances,” says Lyall. By 18 they played at the first Dine & Dance at the City Hotel which was even televised.

After playing at Dunedin’s Savoy Restaurant the band was hired by entertainment icon Joe Brown, of Miss NZ and Search For The Stars fame, touring the country. “We played from Invercargill to Rotorua, backing the likes of Eddie Low, John Hore and Bunny Walters, and played with Tom Sharplin. You couldn’t get out the back door of the theatres.”

A gig at the Frankton Motor Hotel saw the boys, with, by then, Lyall’s wife Ann, packed into an adjacent camping ground cabin. Packers Arms and Trans Hotel were all on their 70s circuit, backing the likes of The Yandall Sisters, Ray Wolfe and the Happen Inn dancers, followed by a stint for Sydney-based Pacific cruise ships.

Back in Queenstown fellow band members Peter Doyle and Colin Robinson pursued other ventures while Lyall went solo, one of just four Queenstown Borough Council employees by day.

“We did everything – collected rubbish, cleaned gutters, even dug graves. The post-election party drinks were legendary.” Queenstown was a small town then with two cops, illegal Sunday morning sessions at Wicked Willies Bar behind closed curtains.

Spotted by the owner of Wellington’s James Cook Hotel Lyall was invited to play there six nights a week, moving the family to Wellington. The who’s who of music all stayed there, (Sir) Elton John, Paul Simon and (Sir)Rod Stewart all dropped into the bar for a chat.

Back in Queenstown Lyall leased a jetboat launching Lakeland Jet and instructed for Colin’s ingenious tourist ride in Brecon Street – an anchored Bell helicopter offering simulated flights 25-feet (7.6m) in the air. His family later sold the idea to the US Navy.

Lyall drove for H&H around the South Island, including the postal delivery run to Glenorchy before driving local limos, chauffeuring the likes of American actor Robin Williams and his family while here on holiday.

“One day I picked up a tiny 4-foot (1.2m) nothing redheaded girl who played ukelele for me. I said, ‘Do you play? She replied, ‘I did in my last movie, but don’t tell anyone,” grins Lyall. “I realised it was Bette Midler. Every night she’d play ukelele in the Blanket Bay Restaurant and we’d sing in the limo sometimes.”

Lyall joined the Queenstown Fire Brigade in 1975 as a volunteer almost 40 years ago, and is now

a life member. He’s attended far too many car accidents and helped fight some mighty fires –The World Nightclub among the worst. He has a swag of medals, including the prestigious Gold Star and a Long Service Good Conduct Medal, although he almost missed out on that. “I used to jump up when the siren went off and drive from Fernhill in my underpants, but when our first woman firefighter, Vicki Paddon joined, the boys asked me to get dressed,” grins Lyall.

If he, Colin and Peter were playing a gig during the early days they’d suddenly lose their bass guitarist. “If there was a call-out I’d just walk off the stage.”

Fire Brigade Winter Festival floats went all out with 38-foot (11.5m) high scaffolding, huge flames, firemen sliding down poles and Lyall on the back singing his own versions of ‘I Will Survive’ and ‘Disco Inferno’.

He’s been heavily involved with Showbiz Queenstown and Remarkable Theatre on and of stage and currently performs locally with Melita Langston, at Remarkables Market, also for charity shows.

A past president of Queenstown RSA, he’s a Poppy Trust trustee and been awarded a Certificate of Appreciation.

In 2018 Queenstown Rotary awarded Lyall the local Unsung Hero Award.

He loves Queenstown but misses its friendly, unclogged streets. “If you talked to yourself in the toilet in the old days you started a rumour,” laughs Lyall.

Lyall in action at the Arrowtown Autumn Festival

Lyall, left, and Queenstown Borough Council workmate Noel digging the ground for the then new Queenstown Mall stone planter boxes in the early 1970s.

Local government needs radical overhaul, report finds

By Maddy Harker - Wānaka App

The most significant review of local government since 1989 has concluded that a radical overhaul is needed.

Last Wednesday, the panel for the review into the Future for Local Government released its final report, which lists 17 key recommendations for councils to deliver better outcomes for local communities.

The report recommends four-year electoral terms; lowering the voting age for local elections to 16; ‘significant funding’ be provided to local councils from central government; a possible amalgamation of councils; and steps to grow Te-Tiriti based partnerships.

It’s already been praised by Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) which says it takes a “common-sense approach”, especially to funding, system sustainability and other challenges facing councils.

The report says the current local government system “is not set up for future success”.

“The series of compounding crises we are experiencing are unlikely to abate – climate change, the ongoing fallout from Covid-19, disruptive technological advances, and the economic and geopolitical impacts of global conflict.”

Extreme weather events, persistent inequity, and low social cohesion are already affecting communities here, the report says, and “all of these challenges are felt at place and will only intensify over the next 30 years”. Decisions by successive governments have marginalised local government and left it in a precarious position in terms of focus, resourcing, and viability, it says.

“Advancing the recommendations is critical to making sure local government can deliver the services and infrastructure needed for healthy, thriving and resilient communities for years to come,” panel chair Jim Palmer said.

“This will require strong commitment from both local and central government to re-examine how our institutions work together.”

The final report comes two years after the government announced an independent review of local government to identify how New Zealand’s system of local democracy and governance needs to evolve over the

next 30 years to improve the wellbeing of New Zealand communities, the environment, and embody Te Tiriti.

Jim Palmer said the panel has spent the last two years listening to local councils, central government, iwi leaders, community and business representatives, rural communities, minority and interest groups, and the public, to identify what they want, need and expect from their local government system.

The final report builds on two previous reports from the panel - Ārewa ake te Kaupapa, an interim report from September 2021, and He mata whāriki, he matawhānui, a draft report from October 2022.

The draft report, which the panel called “a provocation that also asks questions and hopefully prompts further vigorous debate, that will help us shape our final report”, included some of the same recommendations that have made it to the final report.

Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) media and channels advisor Sam White told the Wānaka App the council was unlikely to give an immediate statement on the report.

However, the council’s submission on the draft report from February - in which the council advocates for new funding models, a “truly collaborative” partnership between local and central government and Iwi/ Hapū/ Māori, and addressing “rigidity” in the existing bureaucratic system that drives local government activities and reporting - shares some themes with the final report.

“We will take time to review the report and discuss it with elected members before sharing our position on its conclusions,” QLDC said

QLDC councillors (from left): Matthew Wong, Quentin Smith, Niki Gladding, Lisa Guy, Cody Tucker, Mayor Glyn Lewers, Craig (Ferg) Ferguson, Esther Whitehead, Neeta Shetty (resigned), Gavin Bartlett, Lyal Cocks, and Barry Bruce

Tit bits Tit bits

FROM AROUND THE WORLD

Paris Olympics Probe

French financial investigators searched the headquarters of the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics last week, reportedly seeking documents in two separate preliminary investigations involving corruption allegations. Investigators with the National Financial Prosecutor’s office were said to be looking into possible conflicts of interest and embezzlement at the organisation and the local group responsible for Olympic infrastructure, Solideo. The unannounced arrival comes as French organisers look to hold themselves to a higher standard of transparency in light of past Olympic scandals, including by signing the first-ever host city contract with language banning corruption.

The city is set to host the Summer Games next July 26 to Aug. 11 at an estimated cost of nearly $10B. Organisers claim roughly 70% of the facilities to be used during the Games will be permanently repurposed afterward as part of efforts to make the event more sustainable.

BBC

Gannett Sues Google

Gannett, the largest newspaper publisher in the US, filed a federal lawsuit against Google and its parent company, Alphabet, last week. Gannett claims the tech giant is violating antitrust laws by holding a monopoly over the digital advertising business and controlling how publishers buy and sell ads online, leading to less revenue for publishers and Google’s ad rivals.

Google has led the US digital advertising market for years. In 2022, Google earned $224B from its digital advertising business, making up nearly 80% of its overall revenue. Google also faces antitrust challenges from the US Justice Department and the European Commission, which filed a similar case last week.

Associated Press

NASA’s Parker Solar Probe kisses Sun, finds source of “fast” solar wind

Parker Solar Probe has ventured near enough to the Sun to reveal the source of fast solar wind. Such details about solar wind structure are lost when the wind exits the Sun’s corona as a gust of charged particles. Parker has detected streams of high-energy particles that correlate to pockets on the Sun’s surface known as coronal holes. These are areas where a magnetic field emanates outward into the space around the Sun without looping back into its surface. These holes tend to appear near the Sun’s poles, so the fast solar wind they generate doesn’t hit Earth. But, when the Sun gets active every 11 years due to the flipping of its magnetic field, these coronal holes appear all over its surface, with some of the fast solar wind they produce reaching Earth.

We’re just about to enter into exactly this kind of active period, known as a solar maximum, with reports in recent months suggesting the Sun is more active than it has been in decades. This spells danger for the technology including GPS, telecommunications and other satellitebased tech which would be affected by severe solar winds.

Cosmos

Rampant groundwater pumping has changed the tilt of Earth’s axis

Human depletion of underground reservoirs has shifted the global distribution of water so much that the North Pole has drifted by more than 4 centimetres per year. The Earth has lost enough groundwater to measurably tilt the planet’s axis of rotation.

The net water lost from underground reservoirs between 1993 and 2010 is estimated to be more than 2 trillion tonnes. That has caused the geographic North Pole to shift at a speed of 4.36 centimetres per year, researchers have calculated.

The tilt of the axis on which any celestial object spins tends to be stable. But small changes can occur when large masses shift location inside a planet and on its surface. “Every mass moving around on the surface of the Earth can change the rotation axis,” says Ki-Weon Seo, a geophysicist at Seoul National University.

Nature

TRAINBRAIN YOUR

1. The Outsider is the 2013 autobiography of which tennis player?

2. What is Uruguay's unit of currency?

3. What material represents the 13th wedding anniversary?

4. Who was Katharine Hepburn's co-star in the 1942 film Woman of the Year?

5. What legal phrase means “based on the first impression”?

6. Which actor starred as Walker, Texas Ranger?

7. A cete is a group of which type of animal?

8. In which US city is the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?

9. Which island state is linked by a causeway to the Malay Peninsula?

10. What term is given to an assembly of cathedral canons?

11. What is the 18th letter of the Greek alphabet?

12. What word links a small flat-bottomed boat and a marine food fish?

13. In the 1994 film Clear and Present Danger, who starred as Jack Ryan?

14. What is the translation of the Japanese word “sudoku”?

15. Which lake constitutes the lowest point in Australia?

16. Which Egyptian city is located at the first cataract on the Nile?

17. The 1995 film While You Were Sleeping starred which actress?

18. What is the meaning of the word “germane”?

19. In poker, what is a run in sequence of five cards in the same suit?

20. Who is the Hindu creator of the Universe?

21. What term is given to a male ferret?

22. Which country is situated between Togo and Cote d'Ivoire?

23. What is the medical term for the bone of the upper jaw?

24. Which law of thermodynamics states that heat flows from hot to cold until equilibrium is reached?

25. What name is shared by twelve popes, three from the 20th century?

26. What branch of linguistics is concerned with the meanings of words?

COMPETITION CAPTION

Meth arrests in Central Otago

By Paul Taylor

A woman has been arrested and drugs, ammunition and firearms have been seized following search warrants in Central Otago. Three warrants were executed in Alexandra and Cromwell on Thursday in relation to the supply of methamphetamine by people linked to organised crime groups in Christchurch and Invercargill.

At two of the Alexandra addresses Police located methamphetamine, items used in the supply of methamphetamine, meth utensils, ammunition, and a firearm.

A 37-year-old local woman is due to appear in Alexandra District Court on this Thursday, 29 June, on methamphetamine and firearms charges. Sergeant Derek Ealson says: “Enquiries are continuing and further arrests are likely.

“Police take our role in preventing the harm caused by illicit drugs incredibly seriously, and work incredibly hard to hold offenders to account.

“Similarly, we also work hard to make sure that people suffering harm from drug use get the help that they need, by referring where appropriate to agencies that can help.”

If you, or someone you know, is experiencing harm from drug use or addiction, contact the Drug and Alcohol Helpline alcoholdrughelp.org.nz

HVAC Technician or Engineer

M T Chill is a proud, locally owned Queenstown company specialising in commercial refrigeration system solutions and air conditioning covering the design, project management, service and system analysis.

M T Chill will offer:

• A competitive hourly rate (relevant to experience & skills) and overtime rates as applicable

•Company vehicle

•Phone, laptop and uniform

•Be part of an easy going, small team

•Variety of work

This full time role will be based in the Queenstown Lakes District and servicing the wider area.

You will be responsible for providing high-quality maintenance, repairs, installation and servicing of residential, commercial and industrial HVAC and refrigeration systems.

This role will suit someone with the following background / experience / qualities:

• Trade certificate in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (Level 4)

•Strong industry knowledge

• Experience in refrigeration servicing, installation and remedial repairs

• VRV/VRF experience essential

• Electrical Service Technician Licence and a Full Driver’s Licence

•Excellent communication and customer service skills

• A positive attitude and a proactive team player with the ability to work unsupervised

• Solid practical understanding of maintaining a safe work environment

Applicants for this position should have NZ residency or a valid NZ work visa.

KITCHENHAND

We are looking for a kitchenhand superstar to join our team!

Monday to Friday 4.30pm to 11pm

Opportunity for you to earn some extra income.

Training provided.

Must have a valid NZ work visa.

Please send your CV to warren@hhgroup.nz or pop in and see us a er 4pm.

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

GRAPHIC DESIGNER – QUEENSTOWN

We have an exciting and challenging opportunity for an experienced graphic designer to be a key strategic member of our Harcourts Otago marketing team based in Queenstown.

This role is within an extremely fast pace industry and spans across our six o ices within Otago. We are looking for an innovative person who will bring their creativity, skills and “can-do” attitude to the table.

Having been voted the Most Trusted Real Estate Brand for 11 Years in a row, our brand is important to us and you will ensure all designs are within Harcourts brand standards. Developing visual concepts using Adobe Creative Suite that support our sales consultants, cut through the noise and captivate our customers is a focus.

To be successful you will need;

•To be extremely proficient in Adobe InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop

•The ability to work well under pressure and meet strict deadlines

•High attention to detail and precision in all tasks

•Strong communication skills and confidence to present in front of teams

•Highly developed interpersonal and relationship skills

•Highly organised – plans and prioritises well and manages time to focus self and others on the most important activities

•Experience in the development of a wide range of communications, design, print and online media

If you have creative flair and exceptional attention to detail, we encourage you to apply with an up-to-date CV, cover letter and your portfolio to annette@steapconsulting.co.nz We look forward to receiving your creative application.

Applicants for this position must be a permanent New Zealand resident or citizen, or have a valid work visa.

CAREER Opportunity

F&BManager SkyCityQueenstown

SkyCityQueenstownislookingforaFood& BeverageManagertojointheirteam.Youwill beresponsibleforoverseeingtheF&Boperation ofSkyCityQueenstown,includingorganising functions,eventsandrunningtheWildThyme Bar&Kitchen.

Abouttherole

AsF&BManager,youwillbemanagingyour teamtoprovideexceptionalproductdelivery andasuperbcustomerexperience,whilst meetingbudgetexpectations.Therolewillbe handson,whilstmaintainingresponsibilityfor theQueenstownF&Bfinancialperformance, relationshipwithkeystakeholdersincluding otherSkyCitypropertiesanddevelopmentof bothmanagementandfrontlinestaff.

Abitaboutyou

Youwillbesomeonewithapassionforpeople, providinga deepF&Bknowledge,ongoing traininganddevelopment,withthegoalof guaranteeingourserviceofferingisofthe higheststandard.Aswellasexceptional customerservicedelivery,you'llbring:

Aminimumof5years'experienceinF&B withatleast3years'experienceata managementlevel

Provenexperienceinthemanagementand trainingofstaff

Astrongcontinuousimprovementfocus

Demonstratedexperienceinfinancial management,includingbudgeting,cost controlandmonthlyP&Lreconciliation

StrategicmindsettowardsSkyCity

Queenstown'sbusinessplan

Soundknowledgeofakitchenoperation includingorderingandfoodcontrolplans Culturalawarenessobtainedthroughbeing partofadiverseteam

Webeginreviewingallapplicationsassoonas wereceivethem,soifthisroleticksyourboxes, applytodayoratemployment@skycity.co.nz andwecouldbespeakingtoyouverysoon.

SkyCity is an R20 Venue

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 bar, restaurant or kitchen work you’re interested in, we’ve got it available at all levels

Our perks are pretty hard to beat:

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

• Sta accommodation options

• Epic sta parties

• Great sta incentives

• A trusting culture

• Competitive pay

• Free sta 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

we’re hiring! venue manager

The Hills Golf course is located in award winning Arrowtown and is a unique and exclusive privately-owned golf club situated on an amazing site that includes an exceptional sculpture park and is one of the most beautiful places in the world to work.

We currently have the following vacancies:

Horticultural Assistant

We have a unique opportunity for a horticulture assistant to join our highly skilled team to maintain the award winning gardens within The Lodge and the surrounding Golf Course. Working with the wider team, this role includes perennial care & bed maintenance along with general garden care including hedge & shrub pruning. A very high level of detail and local plant knowledge is required along with the ability to work autonomously giving the utmost care and attention. Currently this is a full time, seasonal position that may be extended for the right person. Experience with irrigation and a Level 2 horticulture certification would be preferred.

Greenkeeping Assistant

We currently have a vacancy for a general seasonal greenkeeping assistant to join our team. We are looking for someone who is reliable, personable, and physically fit who loves working outdoors. You will need to be reliable, have a strong work ethic, and be willing to do an extremely diverse array of outdoor tasks. Preference will be given to applicants with experience in a similar role, or with practical skills and a willingness to learn

With great staff benefits including staff golf, subsidised lunches, easy access & uniform supplied these opportunities come with an immediate start.

To apply, or for further information contact Annette Smith at annette.smith@thehills.co.nz

The Frankton Arm is the Local’s Local. A busy venue with great beer, great food, gaming, sports & a community feel. We’re looking for a Venue Manager to take the reins & really become the heart of the place. You’ll be the kind of person that always puts customers first, loves great beer, enjoys good yarn & makes friends with all the familiar faces with a passion for hospitality.

It’s a job with a lot to it, you’ll be in charge of hitting targets, managing the team, following & implementing procedures, organising functions, preparing KPIs, rostering & managing stock.

Sound like you? To apply please email hr@republicqt.co.nz with a CV & cover letter. We look forward to hearing from you!

EXPERIENCED BAR PERSON & SENIOR WAITER

We make people happy by making epic drinks and giving incredible service!

Bluekanu is looking for a rockstar Bar Person and Senior Waiter to help us deliver this promise and become part of our team.

If you love people, have a good knowledge of food and beverage, know how to make a good cocktail, and can work in a fun busy environment then get in touch.

Please forward your CV to our General Manager: warren@hhgroup.nz

Must have a valid NZ Work Visa.

We are looking for a Commercial Cleaner to join our small team. Great pay rates for the right person.

• Stay healthy with our ENJO Chemical Free Cleaning System

• Must be physically fit as most apartments have stairs

• All apartments at one address - no travelling required!

• Enjoy being part of a small, fun team

• Able to work weekends and school holidays

• Sponsorship not available for this position

• A good understanding of English required

Permanent Part-Time or Casual contract available. Opportunity to train in Reception after 6 months, for the right candidate. Please send your CV to info@cranbury.co.nz

STAFF WANTED

B.T.P Wanaka is seeking qualified painters, apprentices and brush hands.

Join a well established friendly team working closely with Wanaka’s leading builders.

Applicants must have

• Great work ethic

• Reliable transport and current driving license

• Willingness to learn and happy to work in a team

• Good communication skills

• NZ residency or valid working visa

Successful applicants will enjoy excellent pay, great team environment, flexible working hours and working on award winning architectural projects.

Please email Ben paint@btppainting.com or call 020 4013 3350

FIND JOB OPPORTUNITIES

WHEREVER YOU ARE

ArE lOoKiNg fOr...

-

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

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.

Looking for staff to join our team for the busy winter months!

- (Junior) Breakfast Chef - Team Leader

Check out our instagram @marmoladacafeqt to get an impression of our lovely cafe. Contact marmoladacafe@yahoo.com if interested.

Please note that these roles require weekend availability, hospitality experience and a 3 months minimum stay due to the small nature of our cafe.

Alternative Ventures Ltd is looking for a builder to join their team working on new builds in the Queenstown area. Attention to detail necessary.

Carpenters, apprentices, hammerhands and labourers welcome to contact for further detail.

Immediate start with competitive rates dependent on experience.

Contact Dave daveviitakangas@gmail.com

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

Family

Assistant position available 37.5 hours paid week

Store

Immediate start

Must have - Retail experience

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

FULL-TIME CLEANER WANTED LAKES DISTRICT HOSPITAL $27.68 P/H

Contact: jemma.mcpherson@nz.issworld.com 027 250 7692

Paper Plus Queenstown Airport is looking for a fun, reliable and responsible person to join our team. Retail experience is a plus, but not necessary.

It is important you are able to work in a busy team environment. The role is five consecutive days a week.

Centre Manager

We are seeking a dynamic Qualified Early Childhood Teacher for our RIE and Reggio inspired Centre. You will need to be enthusiastic, energetic, motivated, passionate, respectful and be able to lead and work as part of the team.

We have opted into Extended Pay Parity to ensure all our teachers are well respected and able to give their all to our tamariki.

Free parking is provided for our Manager. You will be managing and teaching in a lovely small boutique environment.

Please email your cv and covering letter to fran@zigzagzoo.co.nz www.zigzagzoo.co.nz

Job Description is available on request and any enquiries welcome. All applicants will be treated with confidentiality.

If you think this sounds like you, please send your CV to queenstownairport@paperplus.co.nz

RETAIL ASSISTANT CASUAL

EMPLOYMENT

For a large, busy gift and souvenir shop in Arrowtown.

You must:

• Have great costumer service

• A fantastic work ethic

• Can work weekends

Please phone Lara 027 480 8804 or email thegoldnuggetarrowtown@gmail.com

Joe’s Garage Five Mile is looking for someone just like you! Be a part of our bustling restaurant and bar that prides itself on simple, fast and reliable offerings that have us famous all over NZ.

Joe’s Garage Five Mile operates 7 days 7am till late so you must be available to work rostered hours over these days and times. We offer a competitive remuneration, staff discounts and benefits, plus working at the coolest spots in town. Applicants must have NZ residency or a valid NZ work visa.

To apply visit: gasolinealley.joes.co.nz/careers/ or email your cv to birthes@joes.co.nz

cHeFs

AlL LeVeLs DuTy MaNaGeR/2Ic QuIz MaStEr

fO jOe’s fIvE mIlE

Chef de Partie

The Lodge Bar Qt by Rodd and Gunn is looking for outstanding individual to join our Kitchen Team.

Currently Looking for a Chef de partie with NZ work right. Positive attitude required, with the desire of learning new thing's and improving your Cooking skills from a Michelin star executive Chef Matt Lambert.

We offer great benefits for the right candidate. Ideally looking for 6 months commitment.

One of the most unique Bar and restaurant venue in Queenstown, with passionate, talented, and dedicated Team all aiming in the same direction. Beautiful location facing the Lake Wakatipu. Full time position only

Contact Peter head Chef at: petrm@roddandgunn.com

Wine Guide/Driver

NZ Drivers Licence with P Endorsement essential Queenstown Wine Trail and the Wine Hopper Bus are looking for a friendly reliable driver to host our customers while out on tour. We operate 7 days per week so are looking for someone that can also work weekends when required. Generally, hours are between 11am – 6pm and we are flexible with the number of days of work.

We are looking for a someone with a fun and friendly personality that knows what it means to put the customer first. Full training and local wine knowledge will be provided.

Email your CV and covering letter to Andrew at info@queenstownwinetrail.co.nz

Executive Assistant

Part time 10 hours/week flexible hours $30-35/hr

Are you passionate about supporting a strong and vibrant community and contributing to its future success?

Shaping our Future need a part time Executive Assistant tosupport the Executive Officer as we progress a number of community visioning programmes.

The role involves regular membership communication, optimising the membership function, workshop administration e.g., booking venues, catering, run sheets, liaising with facilitators, workshop write-ups and Board meeting administration.

The successful candidate will have excellent written and verbal communication skills, attention to detail, be well organised and able to manage their own workload. The role requires strong relationship building and interpersonal skills.

Apply by email executive@shapingourfuture.org.nz before 3rd July. For more information call John 0275867233

Queenstown Stopping Services are looking to hire TRAINEE PLASTERERS to join our team. If you would like to learn a trade with a progressive career and you meet the following criteria we would like to hear from you:

• Be willing to commit to at least 2 years

• Have a valid work visa or permanent residency

• Have your own vehicle and full New Zealand drivers license.

• Have a good work ethic and work well in a team.

• Have a good level of physical fitness to work in a fast paced environment

We are a well established local company with a sociable team and can offer competitive hourly pay within the industry.

Please email your CV to queenstownstoppingservices@gmail.com

“The community’s consultants”