The time has come. After almost a year of workshops, difficult conversations, close scrutiny and some incredibly tough decisions, a draft Long Term Plan for 2024-2034 is out for community consultation.
It’s a bittersweet moment for us. On one hand I’m incredibly proud of the work that’s been achieved against a challenging context of uncertainty and significant financial constraints. On the other I’m very aware that we’re proposing a historically average high rates increase of 15.6% for 2024-2025.
Councils deliver a huge range of infrastructure and dozens of services, including many that are not well known until something goes wrong. There are a few other ways we can earn money to fund what we do on behalf of the district (like user fees and charges, development contributions, investment dividends, etc.), but the fact remains that the way the current system is set up, rates contribute over half of our income. And everything our community needs costs more to deliver. That’s no secret to anyone here – the cost of living has risen for everyone.
As you might have seen in recent media coverage, rates rises are a challenge all councils and communities across the country are facing. Every single one will be conscious of the fact it can’t just keep taking extra rates from the same people, year on year. But we can’t ignore the costs in front of us and attempting to delay simply creates an even bigger problem in the future.
We know rates increases at the level proposed is not sustainable in the long term and that something’s got to give. There are more and more requirements being placed on councils but limited alternative ways to fund them. While government has signalled it will be introducing new funding tools, there is currently no certainty about what that might look like and when it will be available.
Our commitment to you is that we’ll continue to advocate for alternative funding levers and identify how to make best use of any emerging funding tools because, it is a priority to reduce the rates burden on our ratepayers.
In the meantime, please take some time to read the Long Term Plan consultation document, have a think about the proposals and make a submission. This is no tick box exercise, we need to know what you think, and your submissions will help shape the final plan and decisions made by the elected Council when it is time to adopt it.
I will personally be out in the community at engagement sessions all July – I hope to see many of you there. A schedule of events and full details can be found at letstalk.qldc.govt.nz.
Queenstown Lakes Mayor Glyn Lewers
The Atlas crew recently dressed up in the circus theme outfits, all in the name of raising funds for the Queenstown Mountain Bike Club. They raised $9510 at their end of season party, with plenty of support from local businesses.
Huge donation for trail tunnel
By Paul Taylor
Arrowtown-based Hugo Charitable Trust has donated a whopping $735,000 to cover the restoration of the historic gold mining tunnel on a new Queenstown trail.
The tunnel at Big Beach, near the Shotover River, will be one of the centrepieces of the new Shotover Gorge Trail that connects Arthurs Point to Frankton.
Queenstown Trails CEO Mark ‘Willy’ Williams says work is well underway on the trail, which forms the second stage of the trail expansion project linking the northern side of the Whakatipu Basin to the wider trail network. The restored tunnel will be officially named the Hugo Tunnel, in recognition of the generous contribution.
“The Hugo Tunnel is set to become a must-visit locations on the trail, it will be a unique experience to ride or walk through the tunnel, and gold mining history is an integral part of how our region has developed,” Williams says. “Being able to restore and repurpose this unique part of our heritage has been made possible thanks to the vision and the generosity of the Hugo Trust.”
The Hugo Charitable Trust was founded in 2017 by Maryanne Green, to continue the philanthropic work of her father, Hugh Green. He had emigrated
to New Zealand from Ireland and, with Barney McCahill, formed Green & McCahill Ltd, which grew to become one of the best known civil construction companies in the country. Green & McCahill Ltd completed some of NZ’s most significant civil construction projects including a long list of major tunnels.
“Hugh Green would have well understood the hard work and toil that went into building this tunnel,” Hugo Chair and Trustee Mark Owens says.
“We have walked the trail to the tunnel entrances and we were very impressed with the stunning terrain and views. The new trail and tunnel will be a fantastic asset for the community, to be enjoyed by many locals and visitors to the region.”
Since 2017, the trust has donated more than $16 million to charitable causes around New Zealand, from its Arrowtown head office, including many local causes.
The 108m-long historic mining tunnel is located near the mouth of the lower Shotover Gorge. It was constructed in 1862 by the Kawarau Diversion Syndicate, using drilling and blasting techniques which are still visible in the tunnel walls today. The syndicate planned to dam the Shotover River, so the water would flow through the tunnel. This would generate hydro-electric energy to power a gold-mining dredge at Big Beach. But the project was eventually abandoned as the tunnel was considered too small, and located at a level that was too high to accommodate the river.
Tunnel restoration works include stabilisation of the tunnel portals, removal of rock-fall material, installation of rock bolts, structural anchors and mesh and construction of the new trail surface. Archaeologists will be involved to identify and catalogue historic artifacts throughout the works.
Queenstown Trails raised an incredible $242,567 through its May Trail Lovers fundraising campaign, which included sponsorship of planks on the planned 92m Kimi-¬ākau suspension bridge, another feature of the Shotover Gorge Trail.
Kicked off by long-time trail supporters Julian and Lizanne Knights, and supported with a mix of local business, individuals, families and groups like the Queenstown Pedalers, all 110 planks of the bridge deck were sponsored, at a cost of $1500 each.
The trail project, including the tunnel and bridge, is expected to be completed this summer.
Council cash for community groups
Almost $5 million in grants have been awarded to 69 community groups and not-for-profit organisations by Queenstown Lakes District Council. The funding covers up to three years of operational or project funding, from 2024 to 2027, and has been allocated from the QLDC Community Fund. Whakatipu Wilding Conifer Control Group receives the largest grant of $450,000 annually for three years, with other recipients including Community LINK, Happiness House, Whakatipu Youth Trust, Kāhu Youth Trust, WAI Wānaka, Queenstown Trails Trust and KiwiHarvest.
“We realise there are growing challenges and pressures on community groups due to the current economic climate and rising operating costs,” QLDC
Community Partnerships Manager Marie Day says. “A significant portion of the grants provided were to support operational funding to sustain the ongoing activities and administration to help these organisations keep doing valuable work in our communities.
“Their efforts will greatly benefit our community, enhance wellbeing and foster a stronger, more connected district.”
Some 94 applications were made to the multi-year fund. Full details of fund recipients are available on the Council’s website at www.qldc.govt.nz/ community-funding.
(from left) Aoibheann Monaghan (CEO & Trustee, Hugo Charitable Trust), Mark ‘Willy’ Williams (CEO, Queenstown Trails), Maryanne Green (Founder, Hugo Charitable Trust) and Mark Owens (Chair & Trustee, Hugo Charitable Trust) visiting the newly-christened Hugo Tunnel ahead of the restoration works that will repurpose the historic mining tunnel as part of the Queenstown Trail
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NEWS IN BRIEF
Double fatal crash
Two people died in a crash on Malaghans Road, Queenstown, on Thursday night. Emergency services rushed to the scene at 10pm, including three ambulances, a helicopter and local fire crews. Police confirmed two people were found dead at the scene, on the section of road between Dalefield Road and Hunter Road. Five others were injured. The accident involved two vehicles, including a van from nearby golf resort Millbrook, but the two people who died were in the other vehicle. As Lakes Weekly Bulletin went to press, police had not confirmed their identities. The Serious Crash Unit examined the scene and an investigation is underway. It’s the second fatal crash on Malaghans Rd, which runs between Arthurs Point and Arrowtown, in four years. Allanah Megan Walker, 17, died in August 2020, in a crash at a similar time of night, 9.20pm. She was the passenger in a Subaru car hit in a head-on collision. The driver, her boyfriend Astin Anthony Caldwell, suffered serious injuries. Queenstown woman Tully Isabel Robinson, then 22, was sentenced to four-and-a-half months’ home detention after pleading guilty to two charges of aggravated driving causing death and aggravated driving causing injury. Robinson was speeding in a Toyota Land Cruiser, on the wrong side of the road, while affected by alcohol, and had been messaging on her phone.
Frankton on the rise
Eight multi-storey apartment blocks capable of housing more than 700 workers will be built opposite Queenstown Events Centre, after the project was given the greenlight last week under Covid-19 Fast-Track laws. Developer No.1 Hansen Road Limited will build the three-to-five storey buildings around the new carparking building currently under construction, near the Frankton BP roundabout. They will have 554 rooms/units (including hostel type rooms, and one, two and three-bedroom units) along with associated communal facilities, infrastructure and landscaping, and 15 commercial/retail tenancies on the ground floor. The expert panel that considered the application had concerns about the impact the height of five of the eight buildings would have on the nearby Outstanding Natural Landscape (ONL), the foothills of Queenstown Hill, but granted consent after the developer agreed to reduce the height by one-storey on each of the five buildings.
Culture plans approved
A community-led Creativity, Culture and Heritage Strategy for Queenstown Lakes was given the thumbs up by district councillors, at Thursday’s full council meeting. Te Muka Toi, Te Muka Tākata will be led by regional arts organisation Three Lakes Cultural Trust (TLCT), the Lakes District Museum, QLDC itself, and other organisations. It is based around five foundations and five strategic priorities, which will be the focus of the next 10 years. TLCT Chair Gizelle Regan says: “It will help us focus resources in the right areas, bring people and organisations together, increase capability and protect our taoka, ensuring that creativity, culture, and heritage help our place and our communities to thrive.” The strategy was developed over 17 months, with input from 150 organisations and many more individuals. It can be read at www.qldc.govt.nz/creativity-culture-heritage-strategy.
T&Cs apply, contact us on 03 442 9995 or email queenstown@lonestar.co.nz to plan your next function.
T&Cs apply, contact us on 03 442 9995 or email queenstown@lonestar.co.nz to plan your next function.
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CRIMELINE
Fireworks thrown into Ferg’s Bar
Ferg’s Bar management say early morning staff and patrons were “incredibly shaken up” after a 56-year-old Gore man allegedly ignited a firecracker and threw it into the bar at 8.10am on Saturday, 22 June.
The man has been charged with endangering safety by criminal nuisance and setting off fireworks in a public place. Community and Youth Constable Amanda Shute says he will reappear in the Queenstown District Court on 9 August after an initial appearance this week.
“The male has allegedly removed a firecracker, which was concealed in his jacket, ignited it and thrown it into Ferg’s Bar,” Shute says. “It landed near a table of patrons and detonated, setting off at least seven bursts.” There was no further detail as to what prompted the offence at this stage, but fortunately there were no injuries and no damage.
Ferg’s Bar is next to Queenstown’s iconic Fergburger, in Shotover Street, and owned by the same company.
Ferg Foods Ltd group general manager Claire Burke says it was an “incredibly stupid act” by someone who had no regard for the safety of the staff in the business at the time, or that of the patrons which included children. “Naturally patrons and staff alike were incredibly shaken up after the incident, but thankfully no one was injured,” she says. “We are very thankful to our staff who immediately took action to ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved.”
Spate of credit card thefts
Police are also warning people to keep their valuables like wallets, phones, passports and other personal items, on their person and to keep jackets and bags in close proximity when out and about.
“There’s been a noted increase in thefts of credit-debit-plus cards from personal items left unattended in recent weeks, resulting in more fraudulent transactions,” Shute says. Police are encouraging people to keep their possessions on them, or close by, to prevent any more opportunistic offending.
Most of this has occurred in bars and restaurants where people are more likely to leave items unattended. “There’s definitely been an increase in this type of offending reported to us,” she says.
Aussies arrested after late night credit card spree
Two Australian tourists were arrested at 2.05am on Saturday, 22 June, and charged with using a credit card for pecuniary advantage after they found it on the ground in the Queenstown CBD. They then used the card at a local bar making purchases totalling $AUS666, before proceeding to another store where they purchased $17.30 worth of goods. They then attempted to use it again at another store to purchase a further $358 worth of goods. “The final transaction was prevented by staff at the store who became suspicious and called Police.” The men both appeared in Invercargill District Court on Tuesday, 25 June, and pleaded guilty. They were convicted and sentenced to pay reparation for the costs incurred and each fined $500.
Aggressive behaviour outside bar
Police were alerted to a member of the public who was acting aggressively outside a Rees Street bar at 12.29am on Saturday, 22 June after it was believed he was refused entry. A 29-year-old Gore man had allegedly threatened a security guard. He was arrested and charged with speaking threateningly and is due to appear in the Gore District Court on 3 July.
Drink driving
A 32-year-old Queenstown man was also charged with allegedly driving with an excess breath alcohol level of 492mcgs at 12.49am on Friday, 21 June, after a vehicle was stopped by Police in Fernhill. The man will appear in the Queenstown District Court on 1 July.
DOWNTOWN OFFICE SUBLEASE AVAILABLE
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The Council Word
Cuppa with a Councillor over the Long Term Plan
The Long Term Plan 2024-2034 is now open for consultation. A consultation document will be winging its way to your letterbox shortly – but if you want to take a look earlier, check out full details of what’s proposed at letstalk.qldc.govt.nz.
Key consultation topics include a proposal to introduce a revised targeted CBD rate for Queenstown, proposed clean energy upgrades for our aquatics facilities and investment in sports fields and community facilities. Council is also proposing to increase development contributions which would affect you if you were planning to develop or subdivide your property.
The Mayor and Councillors will be out and about at markets and pop-up sessions right across the district during July. We hope you can make it along to talk about the draft plan and how it impacts you. Get full details at letstalk.qldc.govt.nz/long-term-plan-2024-2034.
Annual pool shutdown
The pools at Alpine Aqualand are currently closed for their annual deep clean and maintenance.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.
Detour for section of Sunshine Bay Trail
A short detour is currently in place at the start of Sunshine Bay Trail while crews work to install an upgraded UV water treatment plant at the Two Mile water intake. Once complete, the upgraded treatment plant will ensure drinking water in Queenstown, Fernhill and Sunshine Bay continues to be safe and compliant. More on this project at www.qldc.govt.nz/two-mile-uv-treatment.
Good dogs update their details
With rego renewal time fast approaching, now is the time for dog owners to update your details so we send renewal notices to the right place. If you’ve moved house or changed your phone number, email address or other key info please let us know – services@qldc.govt.nz / 03 441 0499.
Know your recycling from A to Z
Ever wondered what belongs in your kerbside bins and where other unwanted items can be dropped off for reuse, recycling or safe disposal in our district? Our A-Z Rubbish & Recycling Directory tells you how for more than 100 items. Head to www.qldc.govt.nz/services/rubbish-recycling
www.qldc.govt.nz
NEWS IN BRIEF
Gibbston line up
Cold Chisel, Icehouse, Bic Runga and Everclear will all play the Gibbston concert in Queenstown this summer.
Australian rock royalty Cold Chisel headline the everpopular big day out on 18 January, 2025, as part of their 50th Anniversary tour. Guitarist and singer Ian Moss says the set includes 15 of their biggest hits. “This time we’ll be playing all of them plus we’ll be throwing in lots of musical surprises.” They’re joined by the Icehouse,
who boast 28 Platinum albums, acclaimed Kiwi
who has a record 20 Tui Awards (NZ Music Awards), and 90s alternative rockers Everclear. Tickets are on sale now, priced from
Ski destination music festival Snow Machine, which brings around 10,000 people to Queenstown from 3-8 September, is already 90% sold out. The festival will have 30 local and international acts performing, including Angus & Julia Stone, Matt Corby, Peking Duk, Snakehips, Middle Kids, LadyHawke, Drax Project and NZ’s MESSIE. It takes place at The Remarkables and Coronet Peak, and five après stages, including a main arena. This year, it’s spreading its wings with a new Winery Arena at Ayburn, providing a daytime winery experience for a break from slopes, with long lunches, wine and live performances. Snow Machine Director Quentin Nolan says: “It’s been an exciting process bringing together a brand-new stage, tailored with incredible food and beverage experiences, and adding a whole new element to an already jammed-packed adventure festival. Every year we try to level up and make the adventure better than the last, from additional parties, adrenaline-fueled offerings, tabletop dancing en piste and more right in the heart of Queenstown.”
Ignite the Night!
There’s less than two weeks to go until the DFS Queenstown 2024 Winter Fireworks light up the night sky above the bay. Thousands of people turned up last year to ‘ooh’ and ‘ahh’ after the luxury travel retailer, which occupies two floors of O’Connells, decided to put on a display. The Winter Fireworks have a 40-year history in Queenstown, but with no Winter Fest planned, DFS stepped in to continue the tradition. This year, Ignite the Night takes place on Saturday, 13 July. There’ll be family friendly activities at DFS from 11am with everyone heading down to the bay at 6.30pm for the fireworks, where there’ll also be an array of food trucks. Prashant Suresh Mahboobani, Vice President of Retail Operations, Oceania, DFS, says the company is committed to curating “unforgettable moments for locals and travelers alike”.
led by Iva Davies,
singer songwriter Bic Runga,
$159.
Photo: Daniel Boud
Snow Machine on track
Arts+Culture
Queenstown Art Society’s Winter Tale
by Jess Allen
Some 90 works from Queenstown Art Society’s members will be on display at Te Atamira for the next five weeks, and they're all available for purchase.
The QAS Members' Exhibition, which opened last Thursday, 27 June, is designed to be a bit of a break from the cold winter months, offering a visual feast to help brighten the season.
Local and regional artists will share their stories through painting, drawing, sculptures and photography. QAS hope to inspire and will also be offering workshops and events to connect the community creatively in warm spaces.
Tracy Porteous, chair of QAS, has been working hard to bring the exhibition to life for another year.
“We’ve got 60 artists involved here from the local area, sometimes a bit beyond that, and we’ve got 90 artworks up on the wall here at Te Atamira,” she says. “It’s a really amazing, vibrant, interesting space for people to come and have a look at the local talent here.”
The society allows each member to enter up to two works, as part of their core values system of being approachable and to embrace the creative community. There is one prize this year called the Warmest Tale Prize, which is given out based on a QAS criteria and decided by the committee.
Queenstown has many art and photography studios, but it’s not always easy for an artist to get their work shown to the public. So QAS’ volunteer committee book in this event a couple of years in advance with Te Atamira, to ensure the members' exhibition gets to go ahead regularly – there were two in 2022 and 2023, with this event the first of 2024.
“We really want the public to come and view this amazing art from around the region. The art ranges in price and it’s got a really huge scope in terms of affordability of art and the kind of content – it’s everything from landscapes, dreamscapes, abstracts and contemporary conceptual work as well.”
Signing up for membership for QAS can be done on their website. It helps to fund their community programmes, promote and support up-and-coming artists, and their mission to grow community arts here in Queenstown. There’s currently two membership tiers – both offer the benefit of connecting with the arts in the region, access to the showcase, a newsletter as well as discounts at supporting businesses.
“We have these members' exhibitions and then we also have members' nights every couple of months, just to try and build a sense of community and because a lot of our local artists work by themselves in their studios. It’s nice to feel a bigger connection somehow. We’ve also got what we call Laneway Showcase, which is a permanent exhibition within Te Atamira and that’s another option for people who are members of the society.”
The committee pull this together because they are “passionate about providing this safe place for everybody to feel they can come together and show their art, because showing art can be quite a vulnerable thing.” In the future they hope to introduce digital artforms, as they’re currently working on a more traditional model of pictures on the wall and sculptures. The team have been working hard to get the exhibition set up and are excited to finally welcome the public to come and check it all out.
“It feels like a creative bomb has just gone off in Te Atamria and all this beautiful creativity has been spread up the walls. It’s a really uplifting thing, and it’s that whole thing about what art does for the wellness of people in general – it’s expression and it has to come out of the artist. It’s such a unique expression of humanity to be creative and put your imagination out there,” Porteous says.
Winter Tale will run at Te Atamira until Friday, 2 August, from 9am-5pm daily, with artworks available to purchase. You can find out more about the exhibition at queenstownartsociety.co.nz otherwise just pop by Te Atamira to see the exhibition.
THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE
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HOSPOGUIDE
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$30 Beer + Burger Deal | Lukie M | 5PM - 8PM
Tuesday Taco Tuesday
$5 Tacos
$8 Fernet Wednesday Live music with Brett Walker 6pm $15 Rump Steak
Live music with David Bell 6pm $15 Parmi Friday Live music with Blake & Gabby 5pm DJ Mad 8pm $15 Burger & Fries
Live Music with Je Marco 5pm DJ Jah Fire 8pm $15 Chef’s Special
02 JULY- 08 JULY
Sunday | FRANK’S | Favorites
$22 Pizzas | Dine in, Takeaway or Delivery | | FRANK’S | Eatery Open everyday for Dinner until 9PM | Dine in, Takeaway or Delivery |
Live Music with Nix 3pm $15 Chef’s Special Monday $15 Fish & Chips
Happy Hour 8-10pm
$8 Spirits, $8 Wines & $8 Tap Beer Wednesday Latin Party with DJ Pirata
Hospo Night DJ MAD $6 Tacos
Open Mic Night from 9.30pm
Every Wednesday is Quiz Night!
5 rounds of questions plus bonus games. To book your team info@lokalqt.co.nz or ring 03 442 5444 Spaces are limited so get in quick!
$25 Pizza and Beer
Having night in?
We have a wide range of takeaway options to choose from. Order online www.lokalqt.co.nz or give us call 03 442 5444
Open Thursday till Sunday with Nightly House DJs from 8pm-4am
Huge Singles Pool Comp 8pm Start $10 Entry + House Drink
THE COFFEE CLUB
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
THREESIXTY RESTAURANT AND BAR
Book your table online or if you have a group enquiry please call or email us.
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.
Located in O’Connells Mall. Monday - Friday 8.30am - 9pm.
Saturday - Sunday 11am - 9pm
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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
GOINGS ON ABOUT
EVENTS - MUSIC - ART
THEATRE - AT THE GALLERIES
Remarkables Market Winter Series
Remarkables Market is running two Mid-Winter Markets in July. There are more than 50 hardy stallholders for hot food, hot drinks, brunch & lunch options, crafts and winter specials. Live music and for the kids. Free parking. Dress warmly.
When: Saturdays 6 and 13 July, 10am - 2pm
Where: 23 Hawthorne Drive, Frankton
ARTS
Painting Workshop - Layering with Mixed Media
In this workshop, participants will learn to create texture by layering different materials and through the programme will be making a unique abstract piece. Various mediums and techniques will be experimented with to inspire individual creativity. Emma Peers is the instructor. Emma is a Scottish-born artist, who emigrated to New Zealand in 2006 after studying at the Glasgow School of Art. Her art is largely focused on portraiture and figurative painting, but she also draws inspiration from the landscapes of Central Otago, incorporating their textures and colours into her work. No art experience is required. The workshop cost is $54 and tickets are available at Nockie’s Palette website, nockiespalette.com
When: Sunday, 7 July, 1pm-4pm
Where: Nockie’s Palette Cellar Door, 756 Lake Hayes-Arrow Junction Highway
Acting Workshops
Remarkable Theatre is hosting two workshops this month that will offer attendees the opportunity to learn new skills or brush up on old ones. Attend one or both days. The first is Scene Rhythms. Fresh from Theatre NZ Intensive Summer School training, Danny Dukinfield will take the group through exploring subtext and inner monologue, using voice control, action verbs and the concepts and work of Pinter, Stanislavsky and Chekhov. The second is Bringing a Script to Life. Julian Noel, a graduate of Melbourne’s Victoria College of the Arts, will teach a programme on the approach and ways that allow an actor to make the words of the playwright their own, including the analysis of the scene, establishing character objectives, analysis of the meaning of the words, thoughts between the lines, the role of improvising, and personalising the scene. Costs are between $50-$60 per day or $80-$120 for the weekend including lunch. Sign up by emailing info@remarkabletheatre.co.nz
When: Scene Rhythms on Saturday, 6 July, 9.30am-4.30pm, Bringing a Script to Life on Sunday, 7 July, 9.30am-4.30pm
Where: Wakatipu Senior Citizens, 1/10 Memorial Street, Queenstown
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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
Little Cinema 2
Little Cinema is a spectacular short film showcase night set up by Irish film enthusiast named Brendan O’Donnell, who sought a platform for filmmakers of all levels to network and to grow and see their films on the big screen. It gives all filmmakers from Central Otago and beyond the opportunity to showcase their films to a warm, encouraging audience in a relaxed setting. The only two rules are that the film is under 15 minutes and the filmmaker introduces their piece on the stage. Films, documentaries, music videos, animations and comedy sketches are all being screened. Tickets are $10 and available online at Te Atamira online.
When: Wednesday, 3 July, 7.15pm-9.45pm
Where: Te Atamira, Remarkables Park Town Centre, Frankton
‘POI E’ Film Screening
Take the whole family to enjoy this warm, funny and touching documentary telling the story of one of New Zealand’s most iconic pop songs, led by Dalvanius Prime and the Pātea Māori Club. Director Tearepa Kahi will lead a question and answer session about the film after the screening.
When: Sunday, 7 July, 6pm
Where: Te Atamira, Remarkables Park Town Centre, Frankton
EVENTS
Ayrburn Christmas Wonderland
Discover a magical Christmas Wonderland this July at Ayrburn! Be whisked away in whimsical light displays, glide across Ayrburn’s enchanting ice rink, and enjoy festive attractions whilst enjoying classic winter cocktails and other gastronomic delights. Plus, follow @ayrburnnz to keep an eye on daily deals and giveaways!
When: Throughout July
Where: Ayrburn, Arrowtown-Lake Hayes Rd
XS STORAGE
Secure self storage units – various sizes available
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by Sue Fea
BOGGY MCDOWELL
Radio legend
He was New Zealand’s longest running breakfast radio announcer, starting out as the youngest at 24 and clocking more than 40 years in the game. ‘Boggy’ (John) McDowell and his on air, alter ego 4ZA mascot, Bertie Budgie, who joined him for daily breakfast birthday calls, were as essential as a cuppa and toast to kick off Southland’s day.
Starting as a NZBC (NZ Broadcasting Corporation) cadet at 18, Boggy’s job ranged from wrestling celebrity cook Alison Holst’s feet free from camera cables during TV show recordings, to choosing music for radio stars like Neil Collins. He was taught by the best, quickly promoted from programming to announcing in 1979 where he infused his own unique style.
“All the other announcers were embarrassed by Bertie, but I embraced him,” Boggy grins. The pair became Southland celebrities, visiting schools and community shows.
Unfortunately, a 4ZA receptionist put paid to that taking Bertie, who lived in a birdcage in the station foyer, to a vet because she believed he was suffering from nervous tension. The vet agreed and Bertie was supposedly sent to Hollywood for ‘a movie role’, a staff member flying to Christchurch and returning in a large budgie costume to mass crowds of hundreds waiting to greet the bird ‘on return’ at Invercargill Airport. “So many people turned out that they were worried the terminal tunnel would collapse,” Boggy chuckles. “I still get people in the (hospice) shop here in Queenstown who remember me, and Bertie.”
His 33-plus years in breakfast radio gained him national acclaim, earning him a QSM for broadcasting and community service and the country’s top honour for outstanding contribution to broadcasting.
Not bad for a farm boy from Boggyburn in Central Southland, the place that would earn him a nickname that stuck when an American consultant asked for one, as the newsreader was also John (O’Connor). “The DNTV2 staff in Dunedin rolled around laughing when I said I was from Boggyburn so this guy said, ‘Great! You’re Boggy’.”
A strong tennis player from age seven at tiny Otapiri School, Boggy was soon under the watchful guise of Southland kids’ coach Neville Hoskin and playing at national tournaments. “Kevin Hamilton and I fancied our chances in the NZ U15 Doubles, but we played Russell Simpson and 12-year-old Chris Lewis in the first round and that was it,” he grins. He raised funds for national tennis trips plucking dead sheep and ‘rouseying’, while at 14, an entrepreneurial Boggy and his brother raised up to 100 piglets which they sold for a handsome profit.
Rugby was always strong and while Boggy was a self-confessed ‘ratbag’ initially at Central Southland College, new English teacher Michael Deaker swept clean, and Constable Cooper soon put paid to the underage drinking in the main street. “I got my act together.”
My Life Story
Ross Fenton gave him his big break, Boggy was sent to Dunedin as floor crew boy on TV shows. “I had to hide under the sink ready to free Alison Holst when she turned to the oven and always got her feet caught around the cables,” he grins. That progressed onto the Miss NZ Show, cueing the contestants left and right, making his country mates back home very jealous.
Flatting with his student brother, the partying was sometimes a bit much. “I wound the auto cue for the likes of Charles Joye’s gardening show, lying on the floor under the hot lights. I fell asleep once and they had to start again.”
He and Winton Kindergarten sweetheart Ann married in 1977 and, after training in Wellington, Boggy started his 4ZA breakfast role in 1979, private station Foveaux Radio arriving in 1981, requiring 4ZA to keep ahead of the game.
“I was never in radio for my own ego,” he says. “I was driven by what radio could do for the community.” Boggy’s been at the forefront of so many highprofile fundraisers. From raising money to get NZ’s first heart-lung transplant recipient Ann Crawford to London for lifesaving surgery, and telethons, to pushing old baths from Edendale to Invercargill with teams of nurses and police, and organising All Black celebrity matches, it’s all been immensely satisfying.
He’s also served on the founding board for Southland Stadium and Velodrome for over 20 years.
But after short stints for Coast and Hokonui Radio, Queenstown beckoned and Boggy bowed out of radio.
Cleaning out to move to Queenstown in 2015, he went to Southland Hospice where regional manager, powerlifting champion Sonia Manaena, suggested he apply for the Queenstown Hospice Shop manager’s role. “It was the last thing I thought I’d do, but I love it.”
At 69, while there are no more super early rises, current work hours mean a little less time for his beloved golf. Boggy played to a single figure handicap for more than 25 years and has won club championships at Green Acres Golf Club, where he was also president, and twice at Queenstown Golf Club.
After 4ZA’s
Celebrating 33-plus years behind the breakfast radio microphone - Boggy McDowell on his last day at 4ZA in 2012
At work in his current role as Hospice Shop Queenstown manager - Boggy McDowell
Boggy, left and Bertie doing their thing back in the day
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Matariki Arrowtown Kā-Muriwai event delights
By QMG
An estimated 8000 people of all ages rugged up to enjoy the third year of Matariki Arrowtown Kā-Muriwai festivities on Friday.
The crowd was a mix of Arrowtown and Queenstown locals and visitors from further afield including Christchurch, Auckland and Australia. The event was made possible from over 220 students on stage, 14 performers, 18 specialists, and over 110 volunteers, and spanned from Buckingham Green to Library Green.
“It was truly a magical evening. I hope everyone enjoyed themselves and also learnt something new about the cultural significance of Matariki,” Watson & Wyatt Director Ann Wyatt says.
“We’re thrilled with the feedback received so far. We worked hard to strike the right balance between providing entertainment and education around this important date in the Māori calendar. We also spread things out more so people would have the space and opportunity to take everything in at their own pace and in their own style.”
The event line-up included local artists, exhibitions, and specialists, and a range of entertainers including Kathleen Brentwood, Milly B, Freefall, school kapa haka groups, and astronomer Gemma Cribb. The Athenaeum Hall, Lakes District Museum, Arrowtown Library, and the Ray White showroom were also open this year for indoor activities and installations.
Silo’s light installations were back this year adding to the magic of the event with the projection on the Museum and soundscape mesmerising the crowd.
More photos on lwb.co.nz
Photo: Leigh Jeffery
o ce@remarkablesastrology.co.nz www.remarkablesastrology.co.nz
7 DAYS: 9am - Late Corner Tex Smith Lane & Hawthorne Drive, Frankton www.superliquor.co.nz | 03 442 9801 | info@slremarkables.co.nz Remarkables Park The bottle store with something more
PM at The Remarks
By QMG
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon was at The Remarkables skifield on Friday to open the new Shadow Basin Express chairlift.
Luxon was joined by Finance Minister Nicola Willis to open the $23 million six-seater Doppelmayr chairlift, which opens up 47ha of intermediate and advanced terrain, including new trails and the Alta Chutes.
While the lack of snow didn’t allow for any runs, at least 15cms fell overnight Sunday into Monday, so skiers and boarders might get to try out the new chairlift and runs this week.
Sir John Davies’ family, which owns NZSki through Trojan Holdings Ltd, has now invested $90 million in The Remarkables over the past 10 years, and millions in Coronet Peak too.
The new lift will ferry 2400 passengers per hour up to a new top station at a higher elevation, with the journey taking under four minutes. It replaces the 33-year-old four-seater chairlift.
Luxon was also in Wānaka on Thursday with Minister of Health Dr Shane Reti for the official naming of the Wānaka birthing unit. It has been named Rākai Kahukura, gifted by iwi and inspired by the process and thoughts surrounding birthing with ‘rākai’ means to adorn, and ‘Kahukura’ a type of cloak.
The birthing unit, which will support around 50 births and 400 families each year, will open for pregnant women and families from July 29. It includes a birthing room with an ensuite and birthing pool, four post-natal rooms with ensuites, an antenatal clinic, a community room and a whānau room.
Dr Reti also announced a new after hours urgent care service will be available in Wānaka for 12 months starting in September. The nurse-led service would be available from 11pm-8am, seven days a week, in a collaboration between Health New Zealand and Central Otago Health Services Ltd. - additional reporting Maddy Harker / Wānaka App
Compost tumblers pros and cons
Compost tumblers can often be found sulking in a garden mostly unused. There are generally a couple of reasons for their lack of use. There’s the ‘one day I will get round to using this gardening marvel’ or alternatively the ‘I used it once and it didn’t really work’ reason.
Why use a tumbler?
There are a few reasons to go down this path.
1. Rodents. Rodents are attracted to compost piles. Rodents, however, can’t get into a tumbler. Now I’ve said that, somebody will have the nightmare ‘rats in the tumbler story’.
2. Tumblers keep your composting tidy and contained.
3. Tumblers make compost really quickly so long as you follow a few key processes, which we will go into further on.
The Tumbler
Not all of them are good just because they’re a tumbler. Some are damn expensive, while some are just crappy or have a key flaw. I was lucky enough to pick up a classic ‘Sutton’ tumbler. Built to last for almost ever. Most tumblers are usable and manageable. As a rule, bigger is better. You get more in them, and they hold moisture better and have the mass to hold the heat, leading to faster decomposition.
Word of warning: Avoid the ‘tumbleweed 220’. I once owned this flawed model right at the beginning of my gardening composting journey. It turns out these rotate on a vertical axis which is crap! There’s no being polite about it. What a waste of my time. You fill up the unit with your ingredients, wood chips, leaves, food scraps and so on and turning every day or so, adding moisture. All that happens with this unit is everything sits in the bottom, you turn and it just slides one big lump to the other end. No real mixing, no speedy composting.
You get the idea. Ensure your barrel is on a long horizontal axis!!
It also not uncommon to see one rammed full of food scraps, the owner waiting patiently for them to turn into compost, it can also be a long wait when not done correctly!
How to use a tumbler
1. Apply the same principles of composting to a tumbler. You need a 50/50 balance of nitrogen rich ingredients like food scraps, coffee, manure and grass clippings, with carbon rich ingredients such as woodchips, straw, leaves...
2. Every time you add food scraps add a similar amount of leaves and vice versa.
3. Water. Remember the moisture checking technique. Grab a handful of compost in the tumbler and squeeze really hard. Is there some moisture between the knuckles? Do you get one or two drops falling away? This is 50% moisture content we are aiming for. Too little, add more water. Too much, leave the lid off, stirring from time to time till it comes right.
4. All ingredients need to be as small as possible. The tumbler works on breaking down materials quickly. This can’t happen if everything is chunky. Run straw, horse manure and leaves through a lawn mower. Small is your friend for quick decomposition.
5. Keep it in full sun, heat is your friend.
6. Give it a good tumble every day or so. It’s great if it’s somewhere you walk past every day.
7. Leave a few handfuls of your mature compost in the tumbler after emptying. You’re leaving some biological friends behind who will help the next tumble batch decompose.
8. At some point stop adding material. If you have a two-chamber system, start filling the second chamber.
When
your tumbler if full, you have two choices:
• Leave everything in the tumbler. Stop adding material and continue to tumble daily, keep an eye on moisture levels. Make compost. While you’re waiting you need a second system for your food scraps. Check out the bokashi buckets.
• You empty your tumbler into a free-standing pile and cover. Or into a compost bay or bin. This is to allow it to mature into compost. Add some compost worms if you haven’t already. Then start filling your tumbler again. Allow the ground pile to mature, keeping an eye on moisture levels.
Which tumbler right for you?
I think tumblers work well in a two-compost system especially for a small garden that produces some garden scraps, a few lawn clippings, the odd hedge trim and deadheaded flowers... in tandem with the Bokashi buckets this duo could deal with all your food scraps and garden scraps. Overtime you should see the fertility of your gardens get lusher. All this compost goes on to help you grow amazing vegetables and whatever other plants take your fancy to grow.
Happy gardening.
WATCH REPAIRS NOW
For all your repairs, watches, clocks, batteries, key cutting & straps.
Level One, Stratton House (Below Sky City), 24 Beach Street, Queenstown Mon - Fri, 9:30am till 5:30pm. Closed on Saturdays. Phone/ text: 027 217 0442
QUEENSTOWN DHARMA CENTRE, 12 LAKE ST TUE (2 Jul), @ 6:30pm, Group Sitting Practice SUN (7 Jul), 2:30pm “A Guide to the Way of Life of a Bodhisattva” with Amnyi Trulchung Rinpoche
All are welcome. Classes are free. Dana for the teacher is gratefully accepted. See www.dharmacentre.org.nz or FB
Trades & 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
WHAKATIPU BEEKEEPERS SUPPORTING LOCAL BEEKEEPERS with sharing knowledge, mentoring and maintaining best ractice. Most importantly a group of likeminded individuals who love bees. Meeting regularly, for more info or to join us whakatipubeekeepers@gmail.com
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 women’s charitable & service org. supporting our local community. Want to know more? Email: president.queenstown@altrusa.org.nz or message us on Facebook. com/AltrusaQueenstown
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.
Everything Else
EVERYTHING ELSE
BULLWORKER EXCELLENT CONDITION. Gleaming. With case. $100. ALPHECCA@GMAIL.COM
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 10am3pm. Free Parking. @makersmarketcountrylane
6 8 79
LWB QUIZ
1. On which date did Apollo 11 land on the moon?
2. According to the proverb, people who live in glass houses should not do what?
3. Athletes throw a spear in which track and field event?
4. Who commanded the British East India Company at the Battle of Plassey in 1757?
5. In which year did Martin Luther King deliver his “I have a dream” speech?
6. In Greek mythology, which king's touch turned everything to gold?
7. Who became the world’s first “test tube baby” in 1978?
8. By what nickname is the infamous historical figure Mary Mallon best known?
9. The TV series Wire in the Blood was based on the books by which author?
10. How is the plant Hedera helix better known?
11. Cher and Olympia Dukakis won Oscars for their roles in which 1987 film?
12. Which band recorded the 1997 hit, “Your Woman”?
13. Who invented the Spinning Jenny, patented in 1770?
14. In which religion is the goddess Parvati worshiped?
15. What title does the wife of a Marquis use?
16. In what year did the Titanic sink and Stockholm host the Summer Olympics?
17. In which month is the US remembrance holiday of Memorial Day?
18. Which of the five senses is most closely linked with memory?
This is a great opportunity for someone returning to the workforce or needing the ability to work school hours.
If you have a good work ethic, can work independently and have an eye for detail then please get in touch.
A varied list of office-based tasks and duties for you to take ownership of.
• processing supplier invoices for payment
• assisting with preparation of invoices for students for tuition and accommodation
• ensuring invoices are paid prior to intake start dates
Working directly with an experienced Accountant and CFO.
Please submit applications (CV and cover letter) to laura.wolahan@qrc.ac.nz
Joiners Wanted
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
jobfix.co.nz
• Must have NZ residency or valid work visa
• Must be trade qualified in cabinetry and timber joinery
• Must have minimum 5 year’s experience in a similar position
• Must hold current full drivers licence
• This is a full-time role
• Remuneration by negotiation is relevant to experience
To apply please email your CV to: queenstown.joinery@xtra.co.nz
Located in the heart of Arrowtown, The Fork and Tap is a vibrant historic restaurant and gastropub that provides an array of New Zealand craft beers, excellent wine options and fresh, delicious food to match.
DUTY MANAGERS
We are looking for full time Duty Managers who are passionate about customer service and have a co-do attitude.
Our ideal candidate will have:
• A current Duty Manager’s Certificate or willingness to obtain one
• Experience in a similar role
• Knowledge of New Zealand Craft Beer and wine
• A passion for excellent customer service with a keen eye for attention to detail
Ability to work on a rotating roster – evenings and weekends availability is essential.
Staff accommodation available
Pay rate $29-$32 depending on experience
To apply send you CV and covering letter to hello@theforkandtap.co.nz
Part time MSK and senior care physio required to join the team Part time enthusiastic Massage Therapist also wanted Approx 15 hour per role available. Minimum of 3 years experience. Good manual therapy techniques and exercise rehabilitation gym skills.
Must have full APC and NZ registration with insurance to apply.
Please send cover letter and CV to info@proactivephysio.co.nz
Be part of our fantastic team
Positions available Experienced Chef full time and part time Chef de Partie
We offer:
• GREAT REMUNERATION based on experience
• Great guaranteed hours, 35-40. If you want more! Hours are available. If that is all you want it’s good with us too.
• We are an accredited employer.
• A fantastic working environment with opportunity to grow and learn. Send your CV to: bookings@momentos.co.nz
VACANCIES
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
Screen Printer
We're looking for an experienced Screen printer to join our team at Uniform Studio. Experience in similar fields and graphic software skills will be a plus.
If you are interested in this position but haven't quite got the experience, please note we will be looking into providing training for the right candidate.
The position offers 30-40hrs week starting ASAP. Citizen or resident only.
Please send us your CV and application to: russ@uniformstudio.co.nz
