LWB issue 956

LAKES WEEKLY

LOCALLY OWNEDSINCE FOREVER BULLETIN

Embracing history, art and community

When I arrive at ‘work’ each morning, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of pride and satisfaction. Being part of the fourth generation on our family farm, every corner of this place holds a piece of our heritage. It’s an absolute joy working alongside my brother Bruce and sister-in-law Annika. Sure, we don’t always see eye to eye, but we respect each other’s strengths and always find a solution that makes us all happy. This collaboration has been the cornerstone of transforming our farm into what is now the Country Lane Retail Village.

We didn’t necessarily set out with the intention of collecting old buildings, but it’s grown into a defining feature of Country Lane. Each building we’ve rescued and restored has its own story and character, adding layers of charm and authenticity to our village. After what feels like an eternity of lobbying, submissions and being a pain in the backside for Council, we finally have the historic Queenstown District High School building, last occupied by the Queenstown Arts Society, on site! Diane Hart deserves a huge thank you for her unwavering dedication throughout this journey. We were grinning ear to ear as the building finally arrived and removing the plywood to reveal those iconic school house windows was a moment of pure joy. It’s great to finally have the backside of the Lake View Holiday Park cabins hidden. We’re planning to spend the next six to eight months renovating it, with the vision of creating a vibrant visual arts hub featuring artists’ studios and a gallery space. If anyone has stories about this old building, we’d love to hear them and keep its history alive.

Amid the rapid high-density development that surrounds us, we’re steadfast in our commitment to maintaining the rural essence of our farm. Country Lane is more than a collection of shops and cafes; it’s a sanctuary where people can reconnect with the simpler, slower-paced lifestyle of the past. We offer open spaces, farm animals, and a kids’ play areas – a place where families can relax and enjoy each other’s company. Our dedication to community and history is at the heart of everything we do.

As we look to the future, we’re filled with excitement and anticipation. Country Lane is not only a family legacy; it’s a community treasure that continues to grow and evolve. We invite you to join us on this journey, to share your stories, and to become a part of the living history that makes Country Lane so special. Together, we can create a space that celebrates our past, enriches our present, and inspires our future.

If you are interested in joining Country Lane, let us know by filling out our ‘Joining the Lane’ form via our website: www.countrylane.nz

Tineke Enright – Country Lane Retail Village

The Queenstown Lakes ski season 2024 is underway! Both The Remarkables and Cardrona Alpine Resort opened some slopes on Saturday, with new Remarks ski area manager Steve Hall popping the bubbles to celebrate. Read more on p3. Photo: The Remarkables

The business of retirementpart two

By Sue Fea

Retirement villages have become big business locally, ranging from comfortable and modern to luxurious holiday resort style, with price tags from around $1 million to $8.5million depending on what retirees can afford.

Northbrook Arrowtown (Ayrburn), dubbed as ‘a masterpiece in refined later living’ is definitely aimed at the high-end of the market, developer Winton Land CEO Chris Meehan describing it as ‘BMW and Mercedes not Bingo and Bowls Brigade’. It will boast 168 residences, 142 self-care, the rest high-care, and 26 care suites, all well underway.

Prices range from $1.36million (1-bedroom) to $8.5million for penthouses. This all comes with a concierge, library and theatre, heated pool and hydrotherapy spa. Winton external relations manager Sonya Fynmore says they’ve had hundreds through weekly since opening their showhome on 4 May. “We’re really excited about the interest,” she says. “There are a lot of genuine people who either live there, or holiday in Arrowtown, and are considering retiring there.”

Northbrook Wanaka at Northlake which will provide 128 units – a Wine and Whisky Library, pool and spa among the amenities, is well underway. “We’ve had heaps of interest in both Arrowtown and Wānaka,” Fynmore says. “People are loving care as part of the offering. They can retain independent living but if they need care they can move into a care suite.”

Queenstown Country Club has 180 residents – 112 households with villas are still coming on stream. Sales manager Hilary O’Hagan says interest hasn’t slowed despite the economy. End of lifers usually don’t have mortgages and have beautiful homes to sell in the best areas, so there’s been “quite a steady flow” of interest. There are 29 new apartments coming up for sale soon with 17 interested parties with the first residents moving in before Christmas.

Prices range from $1million to $3million with the new apartments and care centre that’s under construction finishing soon. About 70% of residents are from the local area but O’Hagan says they do get people coming from around New Zealand to be nearer to family and grandchildren.

Arrowtown Retirement Village managing director Aaron Armstrong says all

An artist’s impression of Northbrook Arrowtown, adjacent to Ayrburn 78 completed residences are occupied with another 12 due for completion later this year. Prices range from $1.3million to almost $3million. Another 40 apartments, 20 serviced apartments and an aged care facility will get underway later this year. Most purchasers are local with a home to sell, but others come from Nelson, Christchurch, and a few from Auckland.

“Demand is really strong,” Armstrong says. “It’s a huge growth industry with so many baby boomers entering the retirement age numbers just keep growing, he says. “It’s an attractive lifestyle.”

QLDC’s ‘Quality of Life’ survey shows that around 4% of over-65s moved to this district in the last two years, 12% in the last five years, indicating they may have moved here to retire.

With a current population just over 50,000, 10% are over 65, QLDC projections estimate that the over-65s will make up 18% of our population, expected to hit just over 100,000 by 2053.

Meanwhile, Metlifecare Wanaka has also been calling for expressions of interest for its $200million ‘premium retirement village’, on 5.4ha within Three Parks comprising 95 independent villas and 30 care suites and catering to around 150 residents.

Mountains open for winter 2024

By Paul Taylor

It’s not quite a winter wonderland yet but the Queenstown Lakes skifields have welcomed their first skiers and snowboarders for 2024.

Cardrona Alpine Resort and The Remarkables both opened on Saturday, 15 June, for snow hounds keen to make their first turns of the season.

RealNZ-run Cardrona, in the valley between Wānaka and Queenstown, managed to get the McDougall’s Chondola and the learner conveyors spinning. About 10cms of snow last week, supported by the artificial snow from the guns, was topped off by 5cm overnight before opening.

“The team have worked incredibly hard to get us open today, I’m incredibly proud of their mahi,” Cardrona and Treble Cone GM, Laura Hedley, said on Saturday. “We’re stoked to see everyone up here skiing and snowboarding –bring on Winter 2024!”

Nixon Young, Jacob Yeasey, Cindy Chen, Summer Miles, Lauren Benzene, and David Brown claimed the first-on-the-chair honours for 2024 at Cardrona.

Meanwhile, Queenstown’s NZSki-run The Remarkables skifield also kicked off the season, opening the Tahi, Rua and Shorty conveyors in the learners area with about 10cm of real snow, with more since then. Former Wakatipu High School principal Steve Hall, who’s taken over as skifield area manager from departing Ross Lawrence, was on hand to pop the Champagne.

Both The Remarkables and Cardrona also opened their guest services, rentals and cafés, and will open more main ski runs as the weather and snowmaking permits.

NZSki-run Coronet Peak flirted with the idea of opening on Saturday, but skifield area manager Nigel Kerr said the snow cover wasn’t quite enough. “We’ve been working really hard with the snow making, we just need a couple more centimetres to join it all up,” Kerr says. He says fingers crossed the skifield will be able to open its main chairlift Coronet Express, as well as Meadows Express and the learners carpets later this week. RealNZ’s Treble Cone, near Wānaka, is scheduled to open 29 June.

Cardrona and Treble Cone GM, Laura Hedley, is a guest on this week’s Outlet Queenstown podcast talking about the huge snowmaking improvements at the two skifields, as well as work they’ve done over the summer, including more car parks at the end of a locals’ favourite run, a new ski tuning robot which can tune skis in the time it takes to get a coffee, the capacity limits and dynamic pricing introduced last season, and the efforts to open 150 hectares of “wide, open, playful terrain” in Soho Basin for winter 2024.

Listen to the Outlet Queenstown Podcast on lwb.co.nz and the Queenstown App

Opening day photos from Cardrona Alpine Resort and The Remarkables. Photos: Suppled by Cardrona / The Remarkables

Find your perfect match

A National Volunteer Week Event

Meet incredible local organisations and discover exciting opportunities to be a force for good in our community!

Lake Wanaka Centre

4.30-6.30pm, Wednesday 19 June

Queenstown Events Centre

4.30-6.30pm, Wednesday 26 June

Brought to you by:

Strong views on border levy

By Paul Taylor

Queenstown Lakes is making a play for a huge chunk of the International Visitor Levy (IVL) collected at the border.

Central Government is consulting on plans to increase the levy from $35 to as much as $100. That could generate $230 million per year, split between conservation and tourism.

Queenstown’s Mayor Glyn Lewers and acting chief executive Michelle Morss, in QLDC’s submission, say the potential $115m for tourism should be divvyed up between the regions based on the total number of visitors to each area.

That would mean Queenstown Lakes, which is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations with 4.5 million guest nights in the past 12 months - 19% of New Zealand’s total, would be in for a windfall.

But, even then, they say, it would be a drop in the ocean compared to what’s needed to meet infrastructure needs - almost $300m over five years according to a 2018 estimate - and, crucially, should not be seen as an alternative to a local visitor levy.

“The IVL cannot be depicted as a replacement for a local visitor levy for the QLD,” the submission reads.

“The IVL lacks both the rigour, the scale, and the targeting to actively address the real impacts of tourism, and therefore misses the opportunity to ensure that international visitors make a meaningful contribution to support local communities.”

On a peak day, Queenstown Lakes has a population of almost 100,000 people, with the break down between residents and visitors roughly 50/50. And the ratio of residents to international visitor nights is 1 to 47, compared with 1 to 1.7 in Auckland, and 1 to 2.8 in Christchurch.

QLDC increased rates by 14% on average last year, to fund improvements to infrastructure and services, with little scope to directly charge the tourists to use them. The submission says “continued aggressive rate rises” will put pressure on local families and continue to erode tourism’s social license.

“The quantum of the challenge far outweighs the ability of the existing rating model to respond. The sheer magnitude of visitor numbers and their forecasted growth makes it impossible for QLDC to fund safe, futureproofed visitor infrastructure through the existing ratings model.”

The submission says relying on the IVL alone is “risky and clumsy” and it should be seen as “one tool of several” to mitigate the impact of tourists on local areas, with all the tools evaluated holistically, including any Milford Sound levy for example.

QLDC also wants accountability and transparency of IVL spending improved, saying the “current $80m well allocated is preferable to $230m that is poorly invested”.

And, finally, it has a crack at plans to allocate $30m a year to Tourism New Zealand, saying there’s a “disconnect between the destination management principles ... and the current approach to marketing by Tourism NZ.”

Earlier this month, Finance Minister Nicola Willis told Queenstown Business Chamber of Commerce members that a local visitor levy is not something that has been even formally discussed by Cabinet, as none of the coalition parties, National, Act and New Zealand First, campaigned on the issue.

“It’s simply that it’s not in the coalition agreements or in the manifestos of any of the parties,” Willis said. “So to progress that policy, we would need agreement from all three parties and the coalition and everyone around the Cabinet table.”

“We just don’t have a mandate for a bed tax at this time,” she added.

Welcome to NZ, now pay up: The risks and rewards of raising the foreign tourist tax - visit lwb.co.nz or the Queenstown App to read an analysis by Tracy Harkison, associate professor at the School of Hospitality and Tourism, Auckland University of Technology (originally published by The Conversation)

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

FIRST HOME BUYERS EVENING

CRIMELINE

Potential downtown car thief

While we’re still waiting on the big dump to get the town rolling, the chilly overnight temperatures may have acted as a welcome deterrent for many night-time offenders this past week.

However, not for a 32-year-old Invercargill man, who was reported to Police when he was spotted allegedly trying door handles of cars along Lake Esplanade at 1:30am on Saturday, 8 June. Police Area Response Manager Senior Sergeant Glenn Wilkinson says the man was charged with unlawful interference with a motor vehicle.

This occurred only a week out from a serious spate of car break-ins causing thousands of dollars worth of damage in the Poplar Drive/Cedar Drive area of Kelvin Heights. Those thieves caused significant damage, smashing windows and damaging ignition barrels, and Police are still investigating with those culprits not yet identified. Vehicle owners across the basin are being urged to be vigilant, to lock up and not leave valuables in their parked cars. Police say outside lighting and security cameras are also a good deterrent.

Alleged drink driver crashes on Frankton Road

A male driver was charged with driving with an excess breath alcohol level - allegedly blowing 844mcgs, and careless driving after a minor crash on Frankton Road at 3.20am on 8 June. Wilkinson says the driver allegedly hit a crossing island near the Z Service Station, crashing into the metal barrier. He will appear in the Queenstown District Court on 21 June.

Failing to stop for Police

A 33-year-old Queenstown man has been charged with driving while suspended after allegedly failing to stop for Police in Hawthorne Drive just after midnight on Sunday, 9 June. Police didn’t pursue the vehicle due to the danger, but later located the car nearby, Wilkinson says.

Icy winter road warnings

Police are starting to deal with the usual icy crashes as winter kicks in on the Crown Range and drivers are being warned to beware of black ice and icy surfaces on the Crown Range, Malaghans Road and bridge decks around the district. Even before the thick of winter, conditions have been potentially treacherous. “It’s been pretty icy,” Wilkinson says. “Black ice catches all drivers out, locals as well as visitors, and people need to be very cautious around known black spots.”

Chain breaker

The snow may not have arrived yet, but Wilkinson says it’s time for drivers to break out those chains and have a few practice runs at home. “Dust those chains off. Familiarise yourself now and make sure you know how to put them on,” he says. “Don’t wait to learn out in a snowstorm.”

The credit card won’t cut it

Drivers should also allow more time to clear their windscreens in the mornings now with the freezing overnight temperatures. “We sometimes see people driving in to work with a little hole scraped clear on their windscreen,” he says. “Get up a little earlier and defrost your car so that you have a clean, clear windscreen when you’re driving in darkness and through icy patches.” There are some good road reports, like the QLDC Winter Road Report, and he’s urging people to subscribe and be prepared.

Alexandra fatal crash

Police have confirmed a local teenager died last Tuesday morning’s crash on State Highway 8 near Alexandra.

He was 19-year-old Sebastian Henry Waldron, from Alexandra. The Serious Crash Unit attended and enquiries into the circumstances are ongoing.

Acting Sergeant James McDonald says: “Crashes of this nature are incredibly confronting, and we have arranged the appropriate support for those members of the public who were first at the scene, as well as our staff.

“We thank every one of them for their assistance and bravery

“We understand an event like this sends shock through the local community, and we send our sincerest condolences to Mr Waldron’s family.”

Ladies Mile house to be demolished

Work began on Monday to demolish 516 Ladies Mile.

The house and land were bought for $13.8 million back in 2019 by Queenstown Lakes District Council. The purchase was more about the 14.6 hectares of land than the former Walker family home, as flat Ladies Mile has been identified as one of the key areas for residential development in Queenstown Lakes.

QLDC snapped up the property with a view to giving enough space for community facilities and recreational space, as landowners looked to develop their own surrounding parcels of land - which is now being made possible by the Ladies Mile Masterplan and plan change. The council investigated using the house itself as a temporary community facilities but toxic mould was discovered in the walls, ruling that out.

Now it is being knocked down over the next six weeks. The garage at the back of the house will stay.

Simon Battrick, QLDC Sport & Recreation Manager, says: “Clearing 516 Ladies Mile of the current property will enable future community use of the site as part of the overall Ladies Mile Masterplan. As we look to the future, this area will be an important community asset for the growing Queenstown Lakes District.”

The draft Long Term Plan 2024-2034 (LTP), due for consideration by councillors on 27 June, includes a proposal to bring forward development of the 516 Ladies Mile site. If approved by councillors, consultation on the draft LTP will run from 28 June – 28 July. The demolition contract was awarded to Invercargill based contractor – Ryal Bush Transport. The demolition is due to be completed by Tuesday, 30 July.

Fatal chopper crash report

A worn door latch likely contributed to the October 2018 chopper crash that killed pilot Nick Wallis and Department of Conservation employees

Paul Hondelink and Scott Theobald.

The three men were travelling to Haast in a Hughes 500 (MD500D) for tahr cull operations when their helicopter crashed just after takeoff near the Wānaka Airport. In a Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC) report released Thursday, deputy chief commissioner Stephen Davies Howard said the TAIC could establish from the evidence what happened during the 2018 crash, but not exactly why.

The helicopter’s left-rear door very likely opened in flight and unsecured clothing flew out of the rear cabin and TAIC found that the clothing quickly became entangled in the tail rotor, causing a tail rotor blade to break off. The tail rotor assembly then became severely imbalanced, detached and struck the main rotor disc, breaking two adjacent main rotor blades, and putting the main rotor assembly out of balance, the commission said.

Another main rotor blade then struck the tail boom and the tail section separated, after which the helicopter became uncontrollable and was destroyed when it hit the ground and caught fire. The accident sequence started about a minute after take-off and lasted only around 14 seconds, Davies Howard said.

“The risk of a door opening in flight is greater if unsecured cargo is in the cabin,” he said. “Restraining the cargo in this instance could have prevented the subsequent chain of events and the loss of life.” It is very likely the door opened because its latch was worn and outside the manufacturer’s tolerances, Davies Howard said, and the door opening might have been prevented if the manufacturer’s maintenance manual had clearer instructions and these had been followed during routine maintenance.

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Recommendations included more education around the need for prompt reporting of the opening of aircraft doors in-flight, which should be regarded as “abnormal and dangerous”, as well as the need for operators to enforce stringent cargo securing practices. - Wānaka App

COMMUNITY NOTES

Volunteering ‘makes you feel like you belong’- Daniela Diaz

by Neha Gosalia

Volunteer South is excited to celebrate Te Wiki Tūao a Motu National Volunteer Week 16-22 June. This year’s theme ‘Whiria Te Tangata- Weaving the People Together’ perfectly represents the role volunteering plays in the uniquely diverse Whakatipu community, a constantly evolving mix of shortterm, long-term, Kiwis and immigrants.

Volunteering provides newcomers with opportunities to connect with others, learn new skills and find a sense of belonging. Long-term Queenstown resident Daniela Diaz Soto, volunteer writer of Nuestra Voz, the Lakes Weekly Bulletin’s Spanish-language column, shares her volunteer journey.

VS: Why did you choose to volunteer?

Dani: Deciding to volunteer came from the idea of getting closer to the community. I have always loved helping others, and giving a little of my time to make someone’s life less difficult is part of my motivation and once I started, I felt like continuing to do it.

VS: How has volunteering affected your journey in Aotearoa?

Dani: When I arrived in New Zealand, I felt very disconnected for a long time, and I realised that collaborating with the community where you live makes you feel like you belong.

I contribute for free to the Lakes Weekly Bulletin magazine, writing a column in Spanish for the Latin community, providing relevant information that could serve as a guide, as well as highlighting stories of Latinos in the area. Without seeking it, this opened a door … even getting a paid project for the Council to highlight immigrant stories, which were published in LWB and The Wānaka Sun.

I have also volunteered for Repair Cafés, Citizens’ Advice Bureau, and I am in the application process at Happiness House.

VS: Wow, impressive! And how has volunteering impacted you?

Dani: Volunteering has changed the way I interact with people. It has made me meet new people from different parts of the world, and it has shown me the kindness of the community.

VS: Ka pai! So inspiring. Finally, any advice for someone new to the community thinking about volunteering?

Dani: I encourage people to volunteer where their heart resonates the most. For many, it is about thinking there is no remuneration, but there is. It makes you feel good that something as simple but important as your time is being used to help someone. Additionally, you can make new friends and connect more with your community. It has helped me a lot in my experience as an immigrant.

Thank you, Dani, for your incredible contributions to our community. Volunteer South is grateful for all volunteers across the region who weave people together, and strengthen our community!

Keen to volunteer? Find Your Perfect Match community speed-dating is on 26 June, 4.30pm - 6.30pm Queenstown Events Centre. Details in Goings On!

Have your say on the next ten years

The Long Term Plan (LTP) sets out Council’s priorities for the next ten years, how we’ll pay for it and what it means for the rates you pay. With high inflation and interest rates it’s a challenging time – everything QLDC does costs more (construction costs are up 27%). The LTP affects everyone so please have your say when consultation starts on 28 June: https://letstalk.qldc.govt.nz

Annual pool shutdown

The pools at Alpine Aqualand will close for their annual deep clean and maintenance from 2.00pm on 29 June. We look forward to reopening on 15 July with a full activity schedule for the second week of school hols. All other facilities at Queenstown Events Centre remain open as normal.

Renting out a room?

If you’ve got a room to offer, head to our Manaaki webpage and start the journey to finding your perfect housemate. It’s an information hub to help support people find suitable housing in our district: www.qldc.govt.nz/manaaki

Winter pause on Lower Shotover Rd

We’re pausing work on improvements to Lower Shotover Road at the end of June. Both lanes will remain open to traffic over winter. We’ll be back in spring to finish the job and provide a safer experience for drivers and bikers.

Events Centre parking

The back car park at Queenstown Event Centre will be closed 26 June-2 July for an event. We appreciate your patience while parking is limited. If you’re able, please consider taking the bus, carpooling or biking.

Volunteer speed dating

Volunteer South, Kiwi Kit Community Trust and QLDC are celebrating National Volunteer Week by hosting Find Your Perfect Match, a speed dating-style event to discover exciting local volunteer opportunities. Connect with local non-profits who support good causes. Join us on 26 June (4.30-6.30pm) at Queenstown Events Centre. More info: www.facebook.com/VolunteerSouthNZ

Only flush the three Ps

Rags, nappies and wet wipes (even if it says they’re flushable/biodegradable) will block our pipes and pump stations, damage infrastructure and cause leaks into our waterways. Only flush the 3Ps – pee, poo and paper –down the loo!

Holiday boredom busters

QLDC Sport & Recreation’s school holiday programme is open for bookings. Spaces always fill up fast, so book online today at www.qldc.govt.nz/shp

www.qldc.govt.nz

NUESTRA VOZ

Por Daniela Díaz Soto ddiazsoto@gmail.com

“Caribe” cumple una década en el corazón de Queenstown

El 14 de junio, el restaurante “Caribe celebró su décimo aniversario. Este establecimiento ha trascendido su papel como un simple local de comida para convertirse en un espacio que celebra y comparte la riqueza de la cultura latinoamericana. Desde sus inicios, “Caribe” ha sido un punto de encuentro para la comunidad latina y una ventana para que los locales y turistas conozcan nuestra cultura. El ambiente vibrante del restaurante, potenciado por una selección musical que se escucha desde la calle, crea una atmósfera que muchos describen como un pedazo de Latinoamérica en Nueva Zelanda.

Sus dueños, una sociedad entre chilenos y venezolanos, han mantenido una visión clara desde el comienzo: ofrecer un espacio auténticamente latino. Aunque al principio el concepto era una mezcla entre mexicano y kiwi que no tenía mucha representación, rápidamente evolucionó hacia una celebración integral de nuestros orígenes. El menú refleja la diversidad de la gastronomía de nuestro continente. Platos como la arepa venezolana, la coxinha brasileña, la milanesa argentina, el completo chileno y especialidades mexicanas, colombianas y peruanas son parte de lo que se puede degustar. Además, el bar solo sirve bebidas típicas como Fernet, piscola, ron, tequila y cervezas. Más allá de la comida, el restaurante se ha convertido también en un símbolo de identidad cultural, con una decoración que incluye variadas banderas e imágenes icónicas de figuras como Don Ramón, el Chavo del 8, Pelé, Maradona, Gardel y un mural de Frida Kahlo, bastante popular entre turistas asiáticos, según cuenta uno de sus dueños, Santiago Bonhomme, quien explica además que “hemos querido conservar el espíritu y que sea un lugar chico, como un oasis entre tanto restaurante de otro tipo”.

Este enfoque en la autenticidad se refleja también en su personal. Muchos que llegan en busca de trabajo encuentran en “Caribe” un lugar donde pueden sentirse como en casa antes de adaptarse al idioma y la cultura local. Este restaurante no solo ofrece empleo, sino también un sentido de pertenencia y comunidad.

Hoy en día, este local cuenta con una clientela local fiel que aprecia el ambiente acogedor y auténtico. A lo largo de estos diez años ha sido una plataforma para que los neozelandeses y turistas aprecien y conozcan la diversidad de América Latina. Este aniversario no solo celebra una década de éxito, sino también la difusión y apreciación de nuestra rica herencia cultural en el corazón de Queenstown.

¡Feliz cumpleaños, Caribe!

Caribe Latin Kitchen Queenstown 36 Ballarat street

QUEENSTOWN DHARMA CENTRE, 12 LAKE ST TUE (18 June) @ 5:30pm, Feldenkrais “Awareness Thru Movement” - gentle movements to prepare body & mind for meditationTUE (18 June) @ 6.30pm, “Deepening Mindfulness” with Grant Rix SUN (23 June) @ 10am, “Cultivating Awareness” followed by “Social Sunday” @ 11am Dana for the teacher gratefully accepted. See www.dharmacentre.org.nz or FB

GOINGS ON ABOUT

EVENTS - MUSIC - ART

Volunteers Speed Dating

COMMUNITY

Volunteer South is hosting Find Your Perfect Match a speed-dating style community connection event, where organisations and members of the public can learn about each other and discover volunteer opportunities. The event is a collaboration between QLDC, Welcoming Communities, as well as The Kiwi Kit Community Trust. Everyone is welcome, no matter how long you’ve been in the area who is inspired to volunteer to come along to Find Your Perfect Match: Wānaka

When: Wednesday, 19 June, 4.30pm-6.30pm Where: Lake Wānaka Centre, Ardmore Street, Wānaka Queenstown

When: Wednesday, 26 June, 4.30pm-6.30pm Where: Queenstown Events Centre, Joe Oconnell Drive, Frankton

Matariki at Queenstown Library

This Matariki, Queenstown Library is hosting a free talk featuring local astrophysicist and Nobel Prize laureate Brian Boyle, who will reveal the wonders of the night sky. You will also hear from local librarian and archaeologist Leslie Van Gelder, who will share her journey towards the Tāhuna Glenorchy Dark Sky Sanctuary. The library is also unveiling new loanable beginner telescope kits on the night as part of the celebrations! The event is suitable for adults and older children. Book your spot by emailing Queenstown.library@qldc.govt.nz

When: Wednesday, 19 June, 6pm Where: Queenstown Library, Gorge Road, Queenstown

Happiness House Winter Fundraiser

Happiness House Winter Fundraiser is your chance to snag amazing pre-loved ski, snowboard, and winter gear at great prices! We’ve got it all - helmets, warm winter jackets, skis, snowboard boots, goggles, and more. Whether you’re gearing up for your next adventure or just looking for winter essentials, this is the perfect opportunity to kit yourself out without breaking the bank. Don’t miss out on this fantastic fundraiser! It will be running from the 4-21 June.

When: Tuesday to Friday from 11am - 4pm, with special late-night Thursdays until 6pm

Where: Happiness House, 4 Park Street, Queenstown

Low Waste Living: Kitchen

Edition event

Central Otago Smokefreerockquest

Regional Final

THEATRE - AT THE GALLERIES More events available at WHAT’S ON on the Queenstown App

Low Waste Living’s Kitchen Edition is an evening designed to transform how you approach sustainable living. Discover alternatives from common plastics and simple kitchen swaps to reduce waste without breaking the bank. Packed with recipe demonstrations, DIY opportunities and insightful tips, this workshop is designed to meet you where you are and inspire you to make manageable changes to reduce the amount of waste in your household. There will be tips on local shopping guides, recycling 101, shopping swaps and demos of low waste recipes, homemade chemical free cleaners, building your own reusable kits, and more! The evening is planned as a fun, chilled opportunity to enjoy tasty low waste snacks and nibbles while learning how to save money, live a life of less waste and feel good about your impact. Tickets are $15pp through Humanitix.

When: Thursday, 20 June, 6.30pm-8.30pm

Where: Arrowtown Athenaeum Hall 33 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown

The Regional Final of Smokefreerockquest’s nationwide, live, original music, youth event which gives young musicians the opportunity to perform live in a professional setting, in venues across the country. Smokefreerockquest 2024, aims to motivate young musicians to strive for success, and to realise the opportunities available in music careers, and to encourage their peers to support original New Zealand Music. Tickets are available online at eventfinda.

When: Saturday, 22 June, 7pm

Where: Queenstown Memorial Centre, 1 Memorial Drive, Queenstown

MUSIC MARKETS

Queenstown Youth Market

Queenstown’s very first Youth Market is being held this weekend. With an array of stalls to choose from, enjoy a winter morning pottering around our indoor market showcasing products and services from young entrepreneurs. And what’s more, every time you buy, you support the local youth AND a good cause. It’s your typical market, but run by youth! Come along, have a browse, and show your support! Public entry is FREE (but remember cash for the stalls).

When: Saturday, 22 June, 10am-2pm Where: MYDC, 1/13 Red Oaks Drive, Frankton, Queenstown

Maker’s Market

Introducing an exciting addition to Queenstown’s vibrant creative community, the Maker’s Market at Country Lane Retail Village. A new hub for all things handmade, showcasing the incredible talent and creativity of local artisans. Country Lane Retail Village couldn’t be more excited to invite everyone to experience the magic of their market firsthand. Experience exquisite textiles, unique jewellery, stunning ceramics, delicious artisanal treats, produce and much more. The Maker’s Market offers a treasure trove of one-of-a-kind finds. Free parking too.

When: Sunday, 23 June, 10am - 3pm and fortnightly in winter

Where: Country Lane Retail Village, 26 Hansen Road, Frankton

Arrowtown Matariki

EVENTS

As the nights get longer, Matariki Arrowtown Kā-Muriwai is returning for the third annual festival on Friday. This year’s event extends further along Buckingham Street with Māori educational experiences in Arrowtown Athenaeum Hall and Lakes District Museum and two stages for entertainment. Buckingham Green will once again feature Kapa haka performances by tamariki from the local preschool and schools with a punchier schedule and earlier start time of 3.30pm to suit families. Library Green will showcase solo performers and poetry and a lot more kai offerings throughout. For the full line up head to www.arrowtown.com/our-town/events/matarikiarrowtown-ka-muriwai

When: Friday, 28 June, 3.30pm – 9pm

Where: Buckingham Green, Buckingham Street,

THE COFFEE CLUB

Kickstart your day at The Coffee Club

THREESIXTY RESTAURANT AND BAR

Book your table online or if you have a group enquiry please call or email us.

Crowne Plaza: Ground Floor 93 Beach St, Queenstown Ph: 03 442 5360

TO GO prontobygiovi.co.nz

THE COFFEE CLUB

Queenstown Central with our delicious breakfast special - Buy One Breakfast, Get One Half Price

Kickstart your day at The Coffee Club Queenstown Central with our delicious breakfast special - Buy One Breakfast, Get One Half Price

T&C’s: Present in store. Only valid at The Coffee Club Queenstown Central. Discount applies to lower-priced items. Not valid with VIP, Supergold, or any other offers. Extras to be charged. We reserve the right to change this offer at any time.

Corner of State Highway 6 and Grant Road, Frankton, Queenstown Ph: 03 974 4579 | OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

T&C’s: Present in store. Only valid at The Coffee Club Queenstown Central. Discount applies to lower-priced items. Not valid with VIP, Supergold, or any other offers. Extras to be charged. We reserve the right to change this offer at any time. Corner of State Highway 6 and Grant Road, Frankton, Queenstown Ph: 03 974 4579 | OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK THREESIXTY RESTAURANT AND BAR

Book your table online or if you have a group enquiry please call or email us.

Crowne Plaza: Ground Floor 93 Beach St, Queenstown Ph: 03 442 5360

EATSPACE – YOUR PASSPORT TO FLAVOUR

Experience a world of flavour. All under one roof.

BLUE KANU

Blue Kanu is now open for lunch! Indulge in a culinary journey at Blue Kanu, where every dish invites you to Taste the Pacific. Offering a tantalising menu, bursting with exotic flavours - join us Friday through Sunday for a midday escape into a world of vibrant tastes and unforgettable dining experiences. Book your lunch reservation today and embark on a voyage of culinary delight. 16 Church Street, Queenstown Ph: 03 442 6060

WINGS | SPORT | COCKTAILS

EATSPACE – YOUR PASSPORT TO FLAVOUR

Experience a world of flavour. All under one roof.

Eatspace offers authentic flavours drawn from influences across the globe, all in a casual dining format.

Eatspace offers authentic flavours drawn from influences across the globe, all in a casual dining format.

Dine in or take-away, from business to pleasure we can cater to all.

Dine in or take-away, from business to pleasure we can cater to all.

Located in O’Connells Mall. Monday - Friday 8.30am - 9pm.

Saturday - Sunday 11am - 9pm

Located in O’Connells Mall. Monday - Friday 8.30am - 9pm. Saturday - Sunday 11am - 9pm

THE DISHERY BISTRO RESTAURANT ARROWTOWN

A place of many dishes - epic food to be enjoyed with loved ones in a vibrant social atmosphere in a stunning natural environment with beautiful wine and cocktails.

Dudley’s Cottage Precinct, 4 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown Ph: 03 441 1849

HOSPOGUIDE

Tuesday | FRANK’S | EURO 2024 LIVE Airing All 7AM Fixtures Wednesday Find Out at | FRANK’S | | Quiz Night every Wed | From 6PM | Register Your Team Online or at 03 222 7030 |

Tuesday Taco Tuesday $5 Tacos $8 Fernet

Live music with Brett Walker 6pm $15 Rump Steak

| FRANK’S | Happy Hour Everyday 4 - 6pm | $10 Pints | $12 Espresso Martinis | $13 Wines |

Live music with David Bell 6pm $15 Parmi

Fridays at | FRANK’S | Live Music with Jaime Lamond I | 11th Avenue | 6 - 9PM |

Live music with Brett & Mel 5pm DJ Mad 8pm $15 Burger & Fries

| FRANK’S | Winter Solstice Party $30 Corona Buckets | Live DJs All Night | 4PM - LATE

Live Music with Je Marco 5pm DJ Jay 8pm $15 Chef’s Special

18 JUNE- 24 JUNE

Sunday | FRANK’S | Favorites | $22 Pizzas | Dine in, Takeaway or Delivery |

Monday | FRANK’S | Eatery Open everyday for Dinner until 9PM | Dine in, Takeaway or Delivery

Live Music with John Healy 3pm $15 Chef’s Special Monday $15 Fish & Chips

Happy Hour 8-10pm $8 Spirits, $8 Wines & $8 Tap Beer

$12 Classic Pizzas all day and night

| $20 Entry $12 Margaritas, $25 Pizza and Beer

Latin Party with DJ Pirata Open Thursday till Sunday with Nightly House DJs from 8pm-4am

Huge Singles Pool Comp 8pm Start $10 Entry + House Drink

Locals Loyalty Rewards Everyday Book our taproom for FUNCTIONS, free hire

VENUE Opened 14th of June!

The Wendys 9PM Surf Punk Band Free Entry Everyday $7.50 QMTBC/ Hivepass membership handles

to Friday THE EUROS’24 Screening all 7am Games | Open from 6:45am

Saturdaze DJ LIVE 4-7pm, DJ MITCH E.P Thursday-Saturday Food Truck, TACOS JAGUAR, Authentic Mexican Sunday CLOSED

Open 7 days week, 2 hour seating, 5pm or 7pm ½ Deep Dish Pizza & 375ml Carafe pp $35 pp

Patio Beats w Ribera Cocktail Specials 5pm - Late

Arts+Culture

Be entertained and inspired for adventure

by Jess Allen

NZ Mountain Film and Book Festival returns from Friday. The programme will run across Wānaka and Queenstown, and will bring something for everyone, hoping to inspire, entertain and move you, through the films and speakers. Most importantly they want to inspire you to pursue your own adventures.

The festival was started in Wānaka in 2002 by Mark and Joe Seddon as a slide show, using a 35mm slide projector. It wasn’t long before they moved from slides to films on VHS, before coming over the hill to Queenstown in 2012. Today, the NZ Mountain Film and Book Festival is a trust that is dedicated to keeping the event grassroots, keeping it as inexpensive and accessible as possible. Alex Kerr has been working behind the scenes of this year’s festival and can’t wait.

“It’s an internationally-recognised film competition that attracts world-class entries from all over the globe, and then supports New Zealand filmmakers. It’s grown from this small community event, and it still is at the heart of it, really.”

There are 64 films in the final programme for this year’s event – they’re stoked to have had a record number of entries with 241 up from 177 in 2023. Queenstown will start with opening night on Thursday followed by the Pure NZ session on Friday afternoon and Snow Show on Friday evening. Kerr is thrilled by the strong Kiwi film numbers this year.

“The programme is action packed, as usual,” Kerr says. “On the Wānaka programme, which is a little bigger, we’ve got 64 films and 20 are New Zealand made – really high standards by the New Zealand filmmakers and we’re excited to be able to showcase their work. I feel it’s really great for the Queenstown audiences because there’s a lot of really familiar faces, and they’re great stories all around.”

Some of the faces we might recognise include Craig Murray and Hank Bilous, who are freeride world tour skiers as well as Georgia Merton and Isobel Ewing. Georgia is one of the people who was a student at the adventure film school the festival support – giving back to the filmmaking community is important to them. They won the award for best self-filmed for Inshallah, where they showcase themselves winging it on bicycles through the mountains of northern Pakistan.

Beyond the films, guest speaker Simone Moro will discuss some of his experiences at the festival. His achievements in high-altitude mountaineering are matched only by his feats of bravery; he’s the only alpinist to complete four 8000m first ascents in winter. He’s also a helicopter pilot and has completed numerous rescue operations from the air, including the highest long-line rescue of 7800m on Everest.

“He’s a legendary Italian mountaineer, who has achieved amazing things. Those peaks that he’s climbed are absolutely enormous mountains, 8000 metres, but the fact that he’s done them in winter is really something else and he’s in not just once, but four times. It’s a pretty amazing career he’s having, so we’re really looking forward to hearing from him.”

The festival also offers a grant scheme with three main pillars that they support including funding youth in adventure filmmaking courses and/or adventure skills training, supporting local environmental projects such as native tree planting and river clean-ups, and assisting with funding people with disabilities to purchase specialist sporting equipment or to experience the outdoors. All these are able to be funded with the help community support for the festival.

“People do come away really inspired and you watch these films and think ‘well, that’s crazy.’ Some of the things that people are doing – climbing these crazy mountains and base jumping and all that kind of thing – so it’s not necessarily about saying everybody should be doing that sort of adrenalinefuelled adventure, it’s encouraging people to do that local walk they’ve been meaning to do but never got around to, it’s that kind of thing, just inspiring people to do their own adventures,” Kerr says.

The New Zealand Mountain Film and Book Festival will take place in Wānaka from 21 – 25 June and in Queenstown from 27 – 28 June at the Memorial Centre. You can find the full programme, read bios of the talkers, films and books, and get tickets at www.mountainfilm.nz

Nuptse: Touching the Intangible follows the obsessive quest of three French mountaineers attempting to summit the Himalayan peak via the legendary almost-8000m south face

Kiwis Georgia Merton and Isobel Ewing won 'best self-filmed' for Inshallah, a cycle expedition through the mountains of northern Pakistan

by Sue Fea

KATIE DEANS

The Deans DNA

She was born in small-town rural Canterbury, a country girl with a love of horticulture, destined for a life on snow, both passions deeply etched into her DNA.

Katie Deans’ Darfield farming family may have famous Robbie Deans rugby ties, but it has an equally impressive Christchurch city heritage. Her great great grandfather was one of the first Europeans to settle in Riccarton, eventually asked to ‘move on’ as Christchurch city needed the family farm. “They left Riccarton House and the surrounding bush to the city, and my great grandmother’s little cob cottage is still there,” Katie says. Her grandmother’s father was General Russell, who led the New Zealand forces with 10,000 horses into Gallipoli.

Katie’s parents were early club ski area founders, heavily involved in Mount Cheeseman where Katie and her three siblings holidayed in the ski huts. “We were all lined up with our lace-up ski boots outside,” she says. “In summer we occupied ourselves on the skifield roads and in culverts while Dad crafted them with the bulldozer.”

After boarding school Katie was keen to bust out of the mould, completing a Diploma in Horticulture at Lincoln, preceded by a year’s practical at Methven Gardens Nursery. The value of planting, tending and growing was instilled in her early on. “My grandfather took me around the garden and taught me the name of every plant, how to love and respect nature, and plant for future generations,” she says. She learned that land wasn’t about ownership. “We’re just caretakers.”

In Methven Katie discovered a love for ski instructing at Mount Hutt so after graduating in the mid-70s she headed for the hills, instructing and coaching at Porter Heights – very young Cobergers among her students, and Ohau. A three-month couch-surfing, ski roadie through Wyoming with brother Phil was the lead-in to eight years of back-to-back winters instructing and coaching in NZ, Australia and the USA. But Craigieburn, working with Glenorchy’s Dan Kelly as a ski patroller, was her favourite. ”We’d ski until dark on rope tows, then under the full moon. It was so much fun.”

In her late 20s she headed back to Lincoln to study landscape design after which old Lincoln mate John Darby, by now working for Boffa Miskell in Queenstown, offered her a job.

“One day a farmer and Basil Walker walked into John’s office and talked about making a farm near Arrowtown into a golf course,” says Katie. John said to me, ‘Do you know anything about golf courses?’ I said, ‘No!’ It was a quick learning curve,” she grins. “We worked out the 18 holes, as John said, ‘Let’s head up this paddock.’” The initiators didn’t have the necessary $45 million so a Hong Kong banker was brought in. “We set up a nursery for the course with another Lincoln buddy Mark Stevenson. You learn as you go.” John did a specialist course in the USA, and Katie worked closely with Sir

My Life Story

Bob Charles on placement of the trees, then Millbrook was born. She helped with the planning for the THC, Edgewater, Nugget Point, Snow Farm, Treble Cone’s Saddle Basin, and actor Sam Neill’s home.

In the late 1980s NZ’s first Powder 8s heli-ski competition was launched by Robin Judkins and Paul Scaife on Black Peak behind Treble Cone. Katie teamed up with NZ downhill racer Anna Archibald. “We got into Tim Wallis’s helicopter in our powder blue NZ uniforms and sat in deer blood all over the back seat,” she laughs. “AJ (Hackett) and Henry (Van Asch) were there on monoboards, and some big-name European instructors.” This launched 25 years of part-time heli-ski guiding for Katie, while balancing full-time landscape design for 40 years. She won the NZ Powder 8s twice, with Anna and then Kate Rattray, competing in the world championships in Canada where she and Kate placed fourth.

She’s skied ‘steep and deep’ the world over, in Alaska with heli-ski founder Doug Coombs, Gulmarg in the Himalayas, Georgia, and recently Norway. It was a hard and fast party lifestyle until the loss of too many dear friends from the mountaineering and skiing fraternity, special mate Bruce Grant killed on K2, among the first. “I’d lost a lot of friends in the mountains and began leaning on the partying too much to console myself,” she says. “Eventually I rebooted myself and now I don’t drink.”

She and vet partner Tim Penlington, whom she met in the singles line at TC, are based in Wānaka during winter and she’s grateful for both supportive communities. Katie’s popular radio Snow Show - started in exchange for a free TC season pass in the mid90s, is still going strong on Newstalk ZB. Honouring the legacy of those that have passed, she promotes avalanche and snow safety, supporting and promoting snowsports athletes. Her landscape design business is her passion, blessed to work with talented architects, clients and contractors. “I just love the energy of the next generation and this beautiful environment.”

Unsurprisingly retirement is not in this Deans’ DNA.

Katie, right, and partner Tim on top of the North Routeburn up by Lake Nerine on one of their epic adventures.

Powder 8s finalists back in the day - Katie, front centre, with Anna Archibald, left front.

A powerful combination - Katie, front, and Anna Archibald competing in the Powder 8s in its heyday

Remarkables Park

The bottle store with something more

OPEN 7 DAYS: 9am - Late

Corner Tex Smith Lane & Hawthorne Drive, Frankton www.superliquor.co.nz | 03 442 9801 | info@slremarkables.co.nz

Looking for O ce Administrator?

Get in touch now!

$35 per hour + gst

Enquires at hello@easyadmin.co.nz

Phone: 021 0823 7381 www.easyadmin.co.nz

QLDC Libraries

Librarian Profile

Lucy – Assistant Librarian (Children and Young Adults)

Kia ora! I’m Lucy, Assistant Children and Young Adults Librarian at Frankton Library. I came to Queenstown Lakes from the sunny Gold Coast, Australia, in January of 2020.

A typical COVID story: we came for a holiday, flights got cancelled, found a job, got pregnant, bought a house, got married.

I joined Frankton Library in February of this year after wrapping up my career of 16 years as a secondary teacher. As a specialist Film and Media studies teacher, storytelling and the creative process that leads to great stories, have been my passion through my entire tertiary education and career life. I believe that telling stories – through the visual, aural, or written form - helps us connect both cross-culturally and intergenerationally. Similarly, I believe our only way forward as a human race is through education and connection – both of which can be gained at your local library. So, it was a natural progression, moving from a career in teaching to libraries.

I am thoroughly enjoying my transition from teaching into the wider community space. I have discovered a new passion in Wriggle and Rhyme. It is by far my favourite time of the week! There is nothing better than spending a Wednesday morning having a sing song and dance with our smallest and cutest patrons.

In terms of reading recommendations, I am an autobiography/non-fiction kinda gal. Which is ironic, as my go to film genres are fantasy/Sci Fi. When I watch a film, I want escapism, to immerse myself in the world and its characters. Whereas, when I read a book, I want to be inspired by fabulous humans, who have done something outrageous and/or amazing, and if there’s humour involved, even better.

Currently reading: Piano Rock: A 1950s Childhood by Gavin Bishop and Adventures with Emilie by Victoria Bruce

A place of the heart by Peta Carey

A Place for the Heart by Peta Carey is a biography of Dave Comer, a prominent photographer and film location scout known for finding locations for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. The book, written by his wife, combines personal stories, letters, and photographs to celebrate his life and work, particularly his deep connection to New Zealand’s Fiordland region

Dear Fatty by Dawn French

Dear Fatty by Dawn French is a humorous and heartfelt memoir in the form of letters to significant people in her life. It covers her journey from childhood, her partnership with Jennifer Saunders, and her success in shows like The Vicar of Dibley. The book also addresses personal topics like her marriage to Lenny Henry and her views on sizism.

Tracks: A Woman’s Solo Trek Across 1700 Miles of Australian Outback by Robyn Davidson

This book is a memoir detailing her incredible journey through the Australian desert. Accompanied by four camels and her dog, Diggity, Davidson travels from Alice Springs to the Indian Ocean, covering 1,700 miles. The narrative explores her encounters with the harsh environment, challenges with her animals, and interactions with Aboriginal communities. Davidson’s journey is driven by a desire for solitude and a deeper connection with nature, making it both a physical and spiritual adventure.

READER FEEDBACK

WARMTH OF DOWNTOWN QT

It has come to this author’s attention that downtown got the “cold shoulder” treatment from this publication last week. Like Slim Shady says in his latest track. ‘If I think that s#@t, I’m going to say that s#@t”. So, here it goes.

One of my visual barometers is Ferg. If there is not a line, we are in the “season of the shoulder” Let’s not bemoan this but, highlight the beauty of things you can only do in these times.

While on Ferg, why not take advantage of no lines and zip into Ferg Baker for a breakie burrito. This author has been savouring these for many years. It remains one of my favoured things to gobble down on any given morning.

There was mention of lost mojo, I beg to differ. However, if you need to get yours back, go see Ryan’s team at Hall of Fades. Not only can you park right out in front of the shop, (this time of year) but you will also strut out with more mojo than you can stand.

After getting your fresh fade, rock up to Bespoke and get a coffee from Michi, she’s been making our coffees here in QT for years. Also, the owner Chris has just installed a sweet new sound system. This author got the opportunity to sit with him and enjoy it. We changed seats several times just so Chris could show off the beauty of the sounds. This was only possible because his venue wasn’t pack liked it normally is. Another blessing of the season of the shoulder, to be able to engage in conversation and banter with a proprietor who has been in town just as long as I have.

You can pop by Julia Miley’s gallery for chat. She’s a wealth of knowledge. Her childhood home was in the centre of downtown. Julia and her friend Lydia from Elysium Beauty in O’Connell’s are the campions of homeless felines through Queenstown Cat Rescue.

There are the tacos at Margo’s. These boys run a tight ship that’s nearly impossible to get into when town is pumping. Same with Bella Cucina, a QT institution. It’s perfect time of year to get a table there without waiting. Have I mentioned the parking? It’s a breeze as long as you can avoid QLDC’s yellow lines and cameras. This author loves to play the dodge- em parking fine game.

No cold shoulders on my rounds. You can get a piping hot and tasty lamb shoulder with a sexy view at Soda. I could go on but, this author was given a word count to adhere to.

Until next time, your truly, Jason Medina

In response to last week’s ‘The Cold Shoulder’ editorial by Paul Taylor, which can be read on lwb.co.nz

BETTER THAN LAST YEAR

Destination Queenstown Marketing and Communications Director Sarah O’Donnell says stats show this shoulder season was busier than 2023.

In last week’s Lakes Weekly Bulletin editorial, writer Paul Taylor suggested that the regional tourism organisation and local big businesses could “have dropped the ball a little in selling the town to tourists from Australia, the US and elsewhere”, with town appearing quiet.

But O’Donnell says average occupancy in commercial accommodation in Queenstown was 79% in April and 59% in May 2024, up from 69% and 55% respectively last year.

“We continue our robust programme of consumer and trade marketing, ensuring we retain demand for our destination from both domestic and international visitors,” O’Donnell says.

“May and early June have always been the traditional should season, and we are focused on flattening the seasonality curve, but naturally it will feel quieter when compared to summer season. Shoulder season is also helpful in some ways to enable operators to give their staff some time off before the busy season and undertake repairs and maintenance on their plant.”

LOST & FOUND

ANYONE MISSING A JACKET FROM LONDON ON Saturday night, 15th June, please call into the Police Station as a number have been recovered and require owners.

UNCLAIMED ITEMS SITTING AT THE POLICE STATION, at 11 Camp Street, this week include:

-OLIVIA TREASE, WALLET

-MORGAN TAYT ALLAN, WALLET

-RIKKI SWAIN, WALLET

-AIRPODS IN WHITE CHARGING CASE

-PAUL TRIPPET, COAT

FOR SALE

SHOES UNLIMITED ARE AGENTS FOR BENNETT’S SHOES Repairs in Invercargill; like Shoes Unlimited, they’ve been around a while and are well known for their skilled workmanship in all things leather repairs - call into our Frankton store at Qn Central

FOR SALE: BRAND NEW TOMMEE TIPPEE ELECTRIC breast pump, still in the box. Originally purchased for $200, now selling for $150. No longer needed. Please text 0224299019 to buy.

FOR RENT

ROOM FOR RENT. LOOKING FOR A MATURE and responsible individual. Room is fully furnished and only 5/10 min walk from town center. Contact 0278653761 for more information.

COMMUNITY

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 9am- 5pm. Sunday 10am-4pm. Pre-loved goods and clothing at great prices. Help support the ongoing work done by the SPCA. Accepting donations now. (Please NO furniture or Children’s clothing.) Call into store now to enquire about Volunteering. Your old goods, or your time, could help save a life. ]

WSCA – ROOMS FOR HIRE - SPACIOUS, sunny rooms are available for hire to Queenstown Community Groups. The rooms hold up to 90 people, with seated dining for 40. Located on the 1st floor of Malaghan House, 10 Memorial Street, Queenstown with lift access. There are kitchen facilities, toilets, Wi-Fi, media equipment for projection onto large screen plus large screen TV. Contact us on 03 4429214 or info@wsca.org.nz for more details.

LWB QUIZ

1. Mary Ellen, John Boy and Jim Bob were members of which TV family?

2. Which Swedish detective was created by Henning Mankell?

3. On which London street is Madame Tussauds located?

4. What kind of animal was Grip, Barnaby Rudge’s pet?

5. Which two dog breeds combine to make a cavoodle (or cavapoo)?

6. Who wrote the poem The Ballad of East and West (1889)?

7. Which author created Paddington Bear?

8. What does a numismatist collect?

9. Which very hot, spicy curry originates from the Indian region of Goa?

10. Who wrote Silas Marner (1861)?

11. In chess, what term is given to a checkmate in the fewest number of moves?

12. Which US university is situated at New Haven, Connecticut?

13. Which country produces the most garlic?

14. “Cancel that bet” is an anagram of which Oscar-winning actress’s name?

15. What kind of mechanical devices are typically powered by a mainspring?

16. Sepia, umber and buff are all shades of what colour?

17. Which building’s name is a byword for the US Department of Defence?

18. Which month is named for Rome’s first emperor?

19. Hanging gardens are associated with which ancient city?

20. What shape does an ellipse most resemble?

QUIZ ANSWERS:

1. The Waltons | 2. Kurt Wallander | 3. Marylebone Road | 4. Raven | 5. Cavalier King Charles spaniel and poodle | 6. Rudyard Kipling | 7. Michael Bond | 8. Coins | 9. Vindaloo | 10. George Eliot | 11. Fool's mate | 12. Yale | 13. China | 14. Cate Blanchett | 15. Watches (and some clocks) | 16. Brown | 17. The Pentagon | 18. August for Augusta | 19. Babylon | 20. Oval

|

COLOUR HEALING, to rebalance and re energise

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

XS STORAGE

Secure self storage units – various sizes available Phone: 0800 297 786 | www.xsstorage.co.nz

RED TUSSOCKS FOR SALE.

Free delivery Queenstown area. Big and small pots. Healthy and bushy. Enquire with Tussockman today. Ph or text on 021654008.

DOWNTOWN OFFICE SUBLEASE AVAILABLE

Need some extra short term office space? An 84sqm fully furnished (if required) office available in the Mountaineer Building until 30 April 2025 (Potentially longer, subject to agreement with landlord). Please phone 021337487 for further details

DID THIS AD GET YOUR ATTENTION?

That is the power of Business Line Ads

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

Trade & Services

TRADES & SERVICES

SUPER, AMAZING AIRBNB HOST - READY TO take on more beautiful properties across Queenstown & Wanaka this winter. Let me take care of everything for you, from booking platforms to linen & everything in between. Email - laura@beautifulstay. co.nz

EASY ADMIN - INVITING LOCAL BUSINESS, WE do: PAYROLL, XERO/MYOB, GST, CASHFLOW, AR&AP, INVOICING. Office Management & Consultancy. hello@easyadmin.co.nz | 0210 823 7381

EVERYTHING ELSE

Everything Else

SHOES UNLIMITED - STEP INTO STYLE AND discover bold new arrivals at our Frankton store with our latest Bresley boots in shades of black, cream, and even hot pink. From classic elegance to vibrant flair, we’ve got you covered! www.shoesunlimited.co.nz

COUNTRY LANE MAKERS MARKET. COME VISIT

QUEENSTOWN’S new market at Country Lane Retail Village, 5 minutes from the airport. Running fortnightly on Sundays through winter 10am - 3pm. Free Parking. @makersmarketcountrylane

LOVE YOUR RECYCLING! ONLY CLEAN GLASS BOTTLES and jars can be recycled in your blue kerbside bin. Put all other glass, including drinking and wine glasses, in the red rubbish bin. Cups & plates go in the rubbish too. Thanks for recycling with care.

BULLWORKER EXCELLENT CONDITION. GLEAMING. WITH CASE. $100. ALPHECCA@GMAIL.COM

Ph: 03 409 2800

enquiries@qmg.co.nz

jobfix.co.nz

Staysouth.com Ltd. is a 7 day/week property management company managing boutique & individually owned luxury apartments and villas in and around Queenstown. We are a small team of key like-minded people who enjoy working with each other and we are looking to add to the team and recruit:

• A “Head of Housekeeping” to run our team of housekeepers and all housekeeping stock, linen and amenities

• “Housekeeping Supervisor/s” with a keen eye for detail to work alongside our cleaners and help the Head of Housekeeping and the Operations Manager run a successful housekeeping team and maintain our properties to the highest of standards

Both positions require you to be:

• Motivated, mature, reliable, honest, a hard and efficient worker with a keen eye for detail

• Able to work alone as well as within a team

• Able to communicate fluently in English – both verbal and written

• Able to work weekends

• Have a full driver’s license without restrictions or convictions

If you think any of the above could be a job for you and you are interested in applying or receiving more information; simply email a cover letter with your CV and an indication of which position you are interested in to housekeeping@staysouth.com

We are looking for an enthusiastic person to join our proactive, friendly team, where your contributions will be valued and your growth will be supported.

The ideal candidate will have experience in customer service, be able to show initiative, think on their feet, and multitask under pressure.

Day-to-day, you'll be helping to sell our unique scenic products and aviation services. Your primary responsibilities will include:

• Selling our wide range of incredible experiences to customers

• Welcoming passengers in our shop and facilitating the check-in process

• Answering enquiries and taking bookings from agents and direct customers by phone, email, online and in-person

• Planning client itineraries and quotes

• Managing bookings and passenger numbers to maximise aircraft efficiency and recording all daily helicopter flight operations

• Maintain accurate daily & monthly operational records

• Assisting with sales and marketing initiatives

Our ideal candidate will have:

• Aviation experience

• Strong selling and operational skills

• Excellent communication skills, both written and spoken

• A proactive and positive approach with a warm and friendly personality and a sense of humour

• The right to work in New Zealand

• A full, clean driver's license

• Self-motivated, able to work autonomously and in a team

• Calm when under pressure

• Tech-savvy

The role also requires flexibility, including working weekends, public holidays and varied hours.

Our work environment can be fast-paced and very dynamic at times, but we're a fun team that loves to have fun and laugh along the way.

If you think this sounds like you, please email your cover letter and CV to sonya@heliglenorchy.co.nz

Ph: 03 409 2800

enquiries@qmg.co.nz

jobfix.co.nz

BUNGY JUMPMASTER

This is a unique opportunity for a Bungy Jumpmaster to join the Hanmer Springs Attractions team!

We are looking for people with previous Bungy Jump experience, either as a registered Jump Master or somebody with accrued jumps/hours under their belt. Please do not apply unless you have the bungy experience we are looking for To succeed in this role you will need to have:

•Bungy Master quali cations

•Dedication, Professionalism, and a commitment to Health and Safety

•Fantastic customer relations

•A full clean NZ Drivers License

•Current rst aid certi cate

• Able to pass a NZ police t & proper person check, DL9 medical, and a Pre-employment drug test

Other skills or experience that may bene t

•Commercial Jetboat Driver License

•Raft Grade 2 award or above

•Swift water rescue certi cate

This is a fulltime position that comes with an attractive pay rate as well as other staff bene ts. A medical check and pre-employment drug testing will be part of the interview process for potential candidates. Ongoing training across our other activities will be provided as given the nature of our business we require all staff to be able to work across the majority of our operations.

If you want to be part of a fun team, respond well to pressure, love working outdoors and enjoy interacting with people then this could be the perfect role for you. If you are interested in the role please in the initial phase contact marty@christchurchattractions.nz

For more information about the business go to www.hanmerspringsattractions.nz

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

yourmarkonQueenstown’sfoodscene!Asasenior chefyou’lluseourwood-firedoventocraft Neapolitan-stylepizzasandinnovativeshared platesalongsideapassionatesmallteamof goodpeople@wearesundaysqt

is your chance to join the team We’re holding open interviews on: Wednesday 19th June from 2:30-4:00pm, at The Ballarat

Please bring your CV’s

Roles available include: Resturant, bar, kitchen, security & promotions. 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

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

Ph: 03 409 2800

enquiries@qmg.co.nz jobfix.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.

FOOD AND BEVERAGE MANAGER – MILLENNIUM HOTEL

SOUS CHEF – COPTHORNE LAKEFRONT

FOOD AND BEVERAGE SUPERVISOR – COPTHORNE LAKEFRONT

RECEPTIONIST – MILLENNIUM HOTEL

***OPPORTUNITIES ALSO OPEN IN OUR TE ANAU, DUNEDIN & GREYMOUTH HOTELS***

WANTED

Arrowtown’s newest live music & cocktail venue will be back with a whole new kitchen o ering and we need front of house superstars and an experienced chef to take us to the next level.

Must have right to work in New Zealand, sponsorship not available. English language skills essential.

DUTY MANAGER

- Must have experience making cocktails.

- LCQ or Duty Mangers Certificate preferred.

CHEF / COOK

- Must have at least 3 years experience.

BARBACK / BUSSER

- Some hospitality experience preferred but not essential for the right applicant.

Get in touch at info@hydebar.co.nz

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

Chef wanted

Odelay cafe has a full time position available for an experienced cafe chef/cook. Wages are negotiable, daytime hours. Friendly team and s/ship possible.

Please send cv to Ed odelaycafe@yahoo.co.nz

Joiners Wanted

• Must have NZ residency or valid work visa

• Must be trade qualified in cabinetry and timber joinery

• Must hold current full drivers licence

• This is a full-time role

VACANCIES

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

• Remuneration by negotiation is relevant to experience

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

CASUAL HOUSEKEEPERS required for Friday unit cleans at Ridge Resort, Goldfield Heights. 9am -3pm

FRIDAYS ONLY

Come and join our awesome team! Please email: ridge.resort@classicholidays.co.nz

OVER NIGHT CARE POSTION

A Queenstown couple need a boarder/ minder, where sleep is expected for majority of the shift. Ideally shift beginning 7.30pm. Free board and part renumeration package. Can be flexible on nights available.

Essential you are kind, capable and flexible, with a good understanding of the elderly and their needs.

Please email CV and if you have questions to Heather mcdonaldbenseman@xtra.co.nz

Operations Manager

Looking for a role that helps our local environment?

Consider this your green light.

We work to restore native biodiversity through revegetation projects, community action and education, and are seeking a confident, inspiring leader to oversee the Trust’s activities.

Have you got it?

Ideally, you’ll have a background in conservation and/or environmental management. You’ll be willing to get your hands dirty, understand native plants and possess excellent communication and organisational skills. The role includes:

• Building and maintaining relationships with stakeholders

• Overseeing nursery operations, site preparation and maintenance

• Managing Trust communications

• Investigating funding avenues

• Reporting monthly on strategic progress

Apply now

Send your CV to chair@wrtqt.org.nz by 5.00pm, Sunday 23 July telling us why you’re the one for the job. See wrtqt.org.nz/green-light for more info.

Ph: 03 409 2800

enquiries@qmg.co.nz

Packwood Construction is looking to expand! We are on the hunt for a 1st or 2nd year apprentice to join our small team. We specialise in new builds and renovations within the Queenstown lakes area.

Requirements:

• Must have a driver’s licence and reliable transportation.

• Must have basic hand tools and a simple battery kit.

• You must have a willingness to learn and work as part of a team.

• You're a problem-solver with an eye for detail.

• Be available to work Mon-Fri 7.30am – 4.30pm with the occasional Saturday where required.

• Must have the right to work in New Zealand.

• Have a reliable can-do attitude.

Benefits:

• Competitive Salary that matches your experience

• On-going training and development will be provided within a supportive team environment.

• Opportunity to grow within the company and guidance to complete your qualification successfully.

• Immediate start for the right candidate, looking to fill the position ASAP!

If the above sounds like you, please give Matt a call on 022 164 3466 for more details and/or send your CV through to office@packwoodconstruction.co.nz

Kahwah Café in Arrowtown is looking to hire

WEEKEND BARISTA

• You will need to be available both Saturday & Sunday from 7.30-2pm

• Confident on both coffee and milk aspects of the machine

• Enjoy being part of a local community & great team

• 6 month commitment is required

DAY COOK/CHEF

• This will ideally suit someone who enjoys the mornings & day work

• The role requires a competent person to prepare & cook a breakfast/ Lunch menu

• Preparing fresh daily cabinet food

• Busy 1-2 person kitchen with good support from a hands on team

• Minimum 1 years experience is required

• Part time or full time possible for the right candidate

Great remuneration for skills & commitment to the roles

This role is in Arrowtown so transport is essential

If this sounds like you please send your CV to karan@peoplelikeus.co.nz

LUXURY LODGE

Lodge Team Posi�ons

Located conveniently in Sunshine Bay, Azur Lodge features 9 villas and hosts a maximum 18 guests daily. Our teams are available for servicing villas, hos�ng breakfast, a�ernoon Tea, Pre dinner drinks and canapes. We offer complimentary town shu�les for guests to explore Queenstown. We offer paid meal breaks and a shi� meal + easy parking.

We have the below posi�ons now available: Senior Lodge Host

Permanent Posi�on. Must have Lodge/Hotel background with recep�on and hos�ng experience. Hrs typically 3pm – 11pm Lodge Hosts

Part Time Posi�ons. Will suit people wan�ng extra hrs. 8am – 12noon AM shi�s and 5pm – 9pm PM shi�s

Over night Host

Permanent Posi�on. We are looking for a mature person to fill this new role. Hrs 10.45pm – 6.45am. Onsite to close down and reopen Lodge. On Call for guest needs. No requirement to be awake all night.

If you have impeccable presenta�on, are mature and professional with a drivers License and want to be a part of a small dynamic team delivering excellence at every turn, please send CV to gm@azur.co.nz

Part-time Dental Sterilisation Assistant

We are looking for a fantastic new team member to join our busy practice at Remarkables Dental! We currently have a part-time position available for a Dental Sterilisation Assistant - this position is an entry level position with a great potential to upskill.

As a Sterilisation Assistant you will be required to provide assistance to our hygienists, clean and sterilise instruments to a high standard, and general cleaning of the practice. The role may also include some reception duties.

The successful applicant:

• Be available to work 3 shifts per week, 10:30am – 5:30pm Thursdays –Saturdays. More shifts will be offered when available. Potential to add an extra shift in August onwards.

• Previous dental assisting experience is an advantage but not essential – on the job training will be provided.

• Good computer skills.

• Good standard of written and spoken English.

Perks include staff benefits and discounted treatments, being part of a supportive and fun team, and the potential to upskill and receive ongoing training.

About you:

• A willingness to learn and develop your skills.

• A strong work ethic and ability to communicate effectively.

• A bubbly personality and team-oriented approach to care.

• Attention to detail and good at multitasking.

If this sounds like you, we would love to hear from you! Please email your resume and cover letter to: manager@wanakadental.co.nz