Over the years there has always been scams and schemes and rip off artists who manage to squeeze a few dollars out of many honest people. In Queenstown we have seen our share, and sometimes it takes a while to recognise the offenders.
So, in my opinion, the latest bandits and strong-arm stand over bullies are the license-to-print-money owners and operators of Wilson Parking.
I see a few of you nodding. The charges they invent to put on your vehicle are nothing more than outrageous. An enquiry into this business model would surely deem it illegal and immoral. And I blame the people who hire them.
Yep, our council, Ramada Holdings, medical centres and others who take a cut and we go from $14 park fines to $85 and much more. Wilson have access to all your information and if you don’t pay the bullshit fine then Baycorp the Bailiffs and debt collectors are on your door. No one wants them bulldogs on your back.
Wilson is owned by a Chinese owned company out of Hong Kong, and they are making millions by issuing any number of tickets for whatever dollar value they choose.
This is a callout to those businesses that have hired or contracted to them. You are to blame.
There is an option online under NZTA to opt-out of having your personal info handed to these lowlifes and to allow only the police etc. access. Check it out. It’s time to standup and take the time to say ‘no’.
Surely there’s a lawyer out there who’s recently got a ticket for $120 for buying a $5 coffee and didn’t read the sign that says, ‘no return within 90 mins’. Maybe we can get them to make fines reasonable, if applicable at all, and have multi-millions refunded to law abiding Kiwis. After all, this is a money machine with all the coin going to Hong Kong.
Parking infringement notices are supposed to prevent people doing dangerous things like parking on yellow lines or overstaying in a loading zone, or taking the piss like a lot of town dwellers, but this is a whole new level of taxation so these guys can get even richer. Come on councillors look at what is happening. Do something.
Jeff Hylton
Kaboom! Queenstown residents and holidaymakers were treated to a spectacular 15-minute firework display over the bay on Friday evening, courtesy of T Galleria by DFS Queenstown, the luxury retailer in O’Connells. Photo: DFS
Renters finding it easier
By Paul Taylor
More than a year on from the public protests about Queenstown’s rental housing crisis, the pressure appears to have eased but problems remain.
Last April and May, scores of people took to the streets to demand action about the lack of affordable accommodation in the resort town, which forced hundreds of full-time workers and families to sleep in tents, cars, at friend’s houses, or simply leave town.
With winter approaching and prices continuing to rise, many businesses began to offer workers staff accommodation, while Queenstown Lakes District Council debated solutions, and top politicians came to town to either face the music or offer an alternative vision.
Hannah Sullivan and Lindsay Waterfield were the faces and voices of the campaign, organising the action through the Queenstown Housing Initiative Facebook group they set up, calling for emergency housing along with more systemic change.
“I had to take a step back eventually, because it was having a real impact on my mental health,” Sullivan says. “It was a lot of work, a lot of pressure, and just unsustainable really. But I’m proud of what we achieved.
“There’s not as much attention on the issue this year, but there are still people struggling. You see posts on social media every day, people looking for somewhere to live, and when I go for a walk down Frankton beach each night, I see people cooking outside their vehicles. There’s a street, I won’t name it, where I regularly see people sleeping in cars, the windows all steamed up.” Sullivan says there do appear to be fewer workers in town this ski season, however.
“Because we were shouting about it last year, I think some people have chosen not to come, and we lost a lot of long termers, a lot of good community members, who were just sick of it.
“People didn’t want to be here anymore. The housing stuff opened my eyes to the fact that they don’t want people like me here, this is a billionaires’ paradise. You’re seeing fewer backpackers now, the shoulder season was terrible, and it’s just the cost of everything. The heating bills are through the roof and a drink downtown costs $14.
“People have chosen other places. Businesses are feeling the pressure too but need to pay the wages because it’s so expensive to live here. It’s a vicious circle.”
More supply
There are 48 rental properties currently listed on Trade Me, ranging from $400 per week for a one-bed studio in Frankton, to $2900 per week for a five-bedroom on Arrowtown-Lake Hayes Rd. Other websites, such as Roomies.co.nz, list rooms available in shared houses, anything from $250 for a single to $500 for a furnished double room.
Housemart Queenstown Ltd director Hayley Stevenson grilled Labour’s then Housing Minister Dr Megan Woods when she came to town last April.
Stevenson says she’s “100%” certain the rental landscape has improved since last year, with one factor the introduction of GST payments for Airbnb hosts.
“There’s more than 40 properties on Trade Me and we’re getting lots of enquiries from people coming off Airbnb and into long-term renting, which is great,” Stevenson says.
“I think just the economy has probably had an effect, you know, the numbers in town appear to be down, the ski fields aren’t as busy, so businesses don’t require as many staff.”
At the height of the crisis last year, more than 20 people would turn up to view some listings.
“We can put a property up for rent now and actually have nobody turn up,” she says. “If it is a good quality property, and priced right, at market rate, it will still rent, but the demand isn’t like it was.”
Affordability is still a problem for many, however. “The rents are high here in comparison to elsewhere. Supply was one problem, but affordability is another for tenants.”
Coalition’s changes
Stevenson told Dr Woods that Labour’s changes to the Residential Tenancy Act, specifically around ending fixed term tenancies, meant holiday property owners were no longer making their homes available to rent short-term. Census data shows 27% of houses here are empty most of the year.
That’s one of the changes the Coalition Government is introducing within the coming years, allowing landlords to give 90-day eviction notices without providing a reason, or 42-day notices with a reason. It will also increase mortgage interest deductibility to 100% by 2025/26, something Labour had removed entirely. And it is changing the Bright-line test.
The slight cooling off of the Queenstown Lakes property market could also help. The QV House Price Index shows the average home value increased by just 0.1% in the June quarter. It’s now just over $1.8 million.
Queenstown Citizens Advice Bureau manager Barbara McDonnell says there are definitely fewer people coming in to CAB with concerns about finding accommodation.
“We still get tenancy issues, issues with landlords, and with people being evicted by the main tenant in a shared property, who have all the power, but it’s not like it was, which was fairly unprecedented,” she says.
“Most of the enquiries now are about work visas again, and the changes around them. That’s where the stress is.”
Hannah Sullivan at last year’s housing protests
Saturday, 20 July
Teddy Bear Tea Party and Treasure Hunt
Bring your best dressed Teddy from 12 - 2 pm Tea box provided with goodies for children 12 and under $10 per child - reservations recommended
Sunday, 21 July 1 - 2 pm
Music with the Queenstown & Southern Lakes Bag Pipe Band Complimentary Church Carrot Cake
St. Peter’s Anglican Church (in the centre of Queenstown) $30-$50 per hour. Kitchen facilities available as well. Also a smaller lounge available, suitable for meetings, small gatherings etc.
For more information please email Tina on kastina.1@gmail.com
Skyline warrant
Queenstown Lakes District Council staff accompanied by a police officer executed a search warrant at Skyline earlier this month, as they continue to investigate last year’s flood landslips. Council spokesperson Sam White confirmed the warrant was executed under the Resource Management Act. “A police constable is required to attend when Council officers execute search warrants. This is standard protocol under the Act,” he said. “Council is not in a position to provide further comment until the investigation comes to a conclusion.” The tourism giant is under the gun after torrents of rain last September brought debris, including logs, mud and rocks, flooding down Bob’s Peak into Queenstown Cemetery and Reavers Lane, off Gorge Rd, sparking a local state of emergency. Contractors for Skyline Enterprises had logged areas of the hill above the cemetery to make a path for the new gondola, while construction fill from work at the top of the hill had been stored above Reavers Lane. Skyline boss Geoff McDonald told media last week he was surprised a search warrant was deemed necessary.
Five kea killed
The Department of Conservation is urging people to stop feeding kea after five were hit and killed by vehicles on Milford Road. “Kea are incredibly charismatic and naturally inquisitive parrots which is why people love seeing them on their journeys so much. However, deliberately enticing them closer by offering them food or other lures is having devastating consequences,” DOC Senior Ranger Biodiversity Lydia McLean says. “Not only is human food bad for them but feeding disrupts their natural foraging and draws them towards the road where they are at risk of being run over. Sadly, that is what occurred here.” The kea that were run over include four juveniles at Monkey Creet and an adult male at the Homer Tunnel, all in April and June. DOC and the Kea Conservation Trust are encouraging the public to be kea advocates and report inappropriate interactions and sightings of people feeding kea so they can better understand how to target messaging. Another way people can help is by logging sightings of kea on the sightings database at keadatabase.nz.
Submissions open on Wānaka McDonald’s
Locals can now have their say on the controversial plans for a McDonald’s restaurant in Wānaka, after the resource consent was publicly notified on Friday (12 July). The fast food company wants to operate a 445m2 restaurant and drive-through 24 hours a day, seven days a week, just off the SH6/SH84 roundabout. But that met with a divided reception from locals. More than 1,500 people signed the ‘Stop Wānaka McDonald’s’ petition within days of the plans becoming public in November, and signatories have now increased to more than 5,500. Petition creator Sarah Morrison told the Wānaka App she planned to make a public submission and encourage other signatories to do the same. She said McDonald’s goes against “all of our core community values”. “Wānaka tends to pride itself on being a health and wellness-centred place… Having fast food restaurants in town directly contradicts that,” she said. In its application McDonald’s Restaurants (NZ) Ltd said the proposed restaurant would “give rise to significant positive effects”. They included “the development of a high-quality, architecturally-designed commercial building, which will be visually integrated within the environment” and “support for the local economy by enabling employment and increased spending in the area”. - Maddy Harker / Wānaka App
XS STORAGE
Secure self storage units – various sizes available Phone: 0800 297 786 | www.xsstorage.co.nz
CRIMELINE
Warning over ‘sextortion’
Police are concerned about cases of alleged ‘sextortion’ involving teenagers around Queenstown lately, with people being recorded without their consent, either in videos or images, and then uploaded onto social media and shared.
“With Snapchat and the easy ability to share we’re seeing a bit of this more recently,” Queenstown Detective Alex Cully Cully says. “Offenders need to be aware that at the serious end of the scale when these images and this footage is being distributed it becomes a very serious offence, punishable by imprisonment.” Police are currently investigating these local cases, and anyone caught will be dealt with by Police Youth Aid or through the Youth Court, she says.
Earlier this month, police issued a wider plea to parents and guardians to have healthy and open conversations with their young people about the risks of being online, and to be proactive with online safety.
If you are a victim to Sextortion:
• Avoid sending anymore images or videos – even if they are threatening you
• Remember – once you have complied with their demands there is nothing preventing them targeting you again
• Save all the online chat, immediately take screenshots/screen recordings
• This is important for making a report to the Police, we need all the evidence that you can gather
• Block the profile
• Report the content to the platform i.e. the social media or website they contacted you on, or the content has been sent or posted on and request the content is removed
• To report this type of offending, contact Police on 105, or an online report through Netsafe at netsafe.org.nz/report.
Netsafe also provides resources for both young people and adults regarding sextortion at netsafe.org.nz/sextortion/
Police concern after accidents
Police are appealing to motorists to be aware of their speed and drive to the winter conditions, in the wake of the recent spate of fatal and serious accidents in the district.
Detective Cully says accidents of this nature rarely happen locally and it’s a major concern to have three happen within 10 days. The Police Serious Crash Unit and the Coroner are investigating three serious accidents, including a double fatality on Malaghans Road on 27 June and the death of a 25-yearold Japanese cyclist in Wānaka on 6 July. One person was also rushed to Dunedin Hospital with serious injuries after a two-vehicle collision at the Kelvin Heights Peninsula Road intersection with State Highway 6 at 6.35pm on 3 July. Another person was taken to Lakes District Hospital from that accident which left the highway closed and traffic built up for over an hour. There was also a fatality near Oamaru within the last few weeks, Cully says. “To have this many in this short space of time is quite alarming. This shouldn’t happen. It shows a bit of a lack of awareness on our roads.” She says motorists need to be patient. “We’ve all got a place to be, but we’ve all got to work together to get there safely. We need patience and courtesy, and people should always leave extra time for any unforeseen delays on their journey.” Southern District Road Policing Manager Inspector Craig Brown also came out last week with a plea after a “concerning number” of drivers have been caught speeding excessively, some at “horrendous speeds” around Queenstown, Cromwell, Ōmarama and Twizel. One motorist was caught driving at double the speed limit and many were more than 20kmph over the limit.
Witnesses sought to lakefront assaults
Police want to hear from anyone who witnessed an assault and disorder incident downtown on the Queenstown Bay waterfront near the Kawarau Jet jetty at 4.40am on Saturday, 6 July. Community and Youth Constable Amanda Shute says one male has been punched in the head which led to an associate of his becoming involved.
That then resulted in the associate also being punched and kicked in the head, sustaining injuries to his eye. Police are now investigating and appealing for an information from witnesses who are urged to contact them, quoting 240706/5809.
Driving while disqualified
Meanwhile, a 30-year-old Queenstown man was located by Police and charged with allegedly driving while disqualified on Wednesday 3 July. The vehicle was impounded, and he will appear in the Queenstown District Court on 19 July.
FRENCH TSL SNOWSHOES. Snow is here and an added extra to your snow, fitness or backcountry adventures could be snowshoeing! We’re in Wānaka but can come to you. Free delivery. Pierre & Janelle in Wanaka. 021 756280 www.tsloutdoor.co.nz
SHOES UNLIMITED ARE AGENTS FOR the well respected Bennett’s Shoe Repairs in Invercargill - pop into our Frankton store in the Queenstown Central shopping centre (open 7 days) and we’ll sort you out.
ROOM FOR RENT. LOOKING FOR a long term flatmate, who is a mature and responsible individual. Room is fully furnished and only 5/10 min walk from town center. Contact 0278653761 for more information.
STUDIO FLAT JACKS POINT. WOULD suit mature single tenant. Fully furnished, tv, internet, OSP. $450 per week. Please text for details: 021 1295483.
My Life Story
by Sue Fea
SUE VAN SCHREVEN
Mother to many
She’s mother to many - ‘Mother Teresa’ to abandoned orphans across the world, and a whole generation later the immense satisfaction Sue van Schreven receives from making such a difference in these young lives keeps driving her to do more.
Her charity, Orphans Aid International, celebrates 20 years this month (July) and is now working in, or helping orphans from, eight countries, from Eastern Europe to India, Africa and the Middle East.
It all started in 2001 – Sue’s first trip to search for orphaned children. She’d gone to Romania with her church. A seed had been planted many years earlier when at nine her mother gave her a book about a woman who cared for abandoned children. “From then on I always said I was going to do that,” she says.
The daughter of sharemilkers, raised near Auckland, then Rotorua, Sue struggled with shyness, working in a bank until doors opened in youth work while she attended Bible College in Hamilton at 23. One of the first female leaders, she quickly grew in confidence and found her niche. However, life took a dramatic turn for the worse when Sue’s younger brother took his own life at 23, leaving her utterly devastated.
“I quit my youth worker job thinking I’d failed him. That was a real turning point with a lot of soul searching, but I really wanted to make my life count and I’d always felt I needed to care for children who have nobody.”
Moving to Invercargill she met husband of 28 years Carl, her neighbour and a patient man, blissfully unaware what he was getting himself into. “Carl had a desire to save bears, me kids,” she laughs. While pregnant with their second son Sue felt stirred to “find these children”. She returned to Romania with Carl, their baby and toddler, where they opened their first orphanage, Casa Kiwi, with four Romanian kids on 13 July 2004.
“I naively thought, ‘Romania has Weetbix and toothbrushes. We can look after these kids’,” she says. “I thought everyone would help as they said they would, but it was very stressful finding the money. Somehow we always did and there have been many, many amazing miracles as to how along the way.”
A Vodafone grant was a huge boost the year Orphans Aid started. Since then, Orphans Aid has helped around 60,000 children in 12 countries, saving many from certain death due to neglect, abandonment and slavery. In 20 years, Casa Kiwi has been home to 160 children, 88 who’ve been adopted out, seven integrated with natural family, 155 families receiving counselling and adoption training and 210 receiving food and clothing.
There’s now more focus on stopping the abandonment but Orphans Aid is seeing a whole generation of children emerging from its homes, integrated into the world. Andrei, with them since three, so badly neglected that he couldn’t eat, talk or walk, now feels like Sue’s own son. “He was the same
age as our Daniel when we opened there and living in a cot. He had nobody. There’s nothing you wouldn’t do for these kids that you wouldn’t do for your own,” Sue says.
Kids like Andrei have been her driving force. “I just want to alleviate all that suffering, and we keep seeing results. I’ve seen whole families turn around. Mums often abandon their kids so someone will feed them, and they won’t end up in slavery, beaten or begging. We give them the tools to see the whole family thriving.”
They have homes, feeding and adoption programmes, parental counselling across many countries, more recently assisting Ukrainian children fleeing to Romania and Bulgaria, and rescuing children from earthquake-ravaged Turkey. However, at times it’s been extremely tough finding funding, but Sue says her strong faith in God has always pulled her through in an organisation now relying on $2.5m fundraising each year, more than $1m of that going directly into aid. Significant extra funds support staff and projects.
“At one point, while it was all volunteer, I pulled up outside the Westpac Bank here with my CV to try and get a job. I started writing a ‘to do’ list outside and thought, ‘I haven’t got time for this, so I drove off. I just had to make it work as all those children were relying on me.”
Since then, she’s authored two books and starred in major documentaries. For their 15th anniversary Sue and a team of fundraisers trained hard, climbing 6000m Mount Kilimanjaro, raising more than $40,000. This year they’re climbing to Mount Everest Base Camp (5364m) – a 135km, 14-day trek, as they need to raise $150,000. “That’s an important part of our budget as times are tough,” she says.
“Many, many times I’ve thought, ‘How the heck will this come together’ but it always does, even in these times with high cost of living pressures. I just know it will be okay and I will be able to feed those kids, I just know it. I’ve seen the breakthrough happen so many times.”
Orphans Aid International — the abandoned rescued since 2004
Today... over 150 million children suffer and struggle to survive with no mum or dad. Join our cause to love and care for orphaned children – one child at a time. www.orphansaidinternational.org
Sue with two of the kids at Orphans Aid’s Casa Kiwi home in Romania last year
Carl and Sue on top of Mount Kilimanjaro during the 15th anniversary climb
Sue, right, with the manager of Orphans Aid’s latest new Op Shop to open in Whanganui, Kelly Scarrow
Winter Pride gets social
By Paul Taylor
Winter Pride organisers are changing it up for 2024 with the return of Pride in the Park and many more laid back social events on the calendar.
Queenstown-based Sam Coulthard and Odette Rose have taken over the biggest Pride festival in the southern hemisphere going forward, after owners Martin King and Mike Hughes sold up after six years at the helm.
The 11 day bash runs from 22 August to 1 September, and is expected to bring thousands to town for on-mountain events at The Remarkables, Coronet Peak and Cardrona Alpine Resort, and dozens of après-ski events, including club nights, drag shows and parties.
And Coulthard, who has been involved in the festival for years, says the plan is also to reintroduce the popular Pride in the Park, as the festival celebrates its 21st birthday.
“It’s a few years since we held Pride in the Park, but it’s such a great part of the festival that we wanted to bring it back,” he says.
“We feel strongly there should be a way for the community to get involved, and people shouldn’t be excluded because they can’t afford to come to the ticketed events or get up the mountain. Pride in the Park is very expensive to put on, a loss leader really, and you have to get all your ducks in a row with council consents, liquor licensing, and everything like that, which we’re working through now, but we had 4000 people down at the lakefront for the last one, so we want to make it happen.”
The plan is for Pride in the Park to be held on Marine Parade, Queenstown Bay, from 12pm-8pm on the first Saturday, 24 August. Coulthard says there’ll also be more day social events on the calendar.
“We want to provide something for everyone. The younger generation of New Zealanders love their drum and bass, tech house, that sort of thing, so we have Camp Base at Seek on the first Friday night, and we have the big parties, the opening night Lavender Lounge party at the Memorial Centre, a Western AF night at Cowboys, our Final Party at the Events Centre, and cocktail nights, DJ nights etc.
“But we’re also including lots of more chilled events, such as brunches, long lunches, bowling, ice skating, roller disco, game nights, karaoke, charity runs, mountain walks, our colour run, photography workshops. Lots of people who come want to get involved but also save some energy of skiing and ticking off those Queenstown bucket list items like bungy jumping.”
Ticket sales are tracking reasonably, he says, although often you don’t get a real sense of numbers until nearer the time, and inflation is putting pressure on spending and also the cost of putting on an event like Winter Pride. Two of the largest 2023 sponsors have pulled pin this year, which means the festival is even more reliant on ticket sales.
One of the new initiatives for 2024 is Spread The Rainbow: A Beacon of Hope in the Storm, plans to help people from the LGBTQIA+ community who are struggling emotionally and financially.
Those who can afford it can buy a Spread The Rainbow ticket, allowing a young queer or trans person to attend an event for free. Winter Pride is also giving away 100 tickets for its final party.
Coulthard says with rise in queer youth suicide and violence, against a backdrop of toxic social media rhetoric, the initiative is about fostering belonging and enabling people to connect with others in a safe and inclusive environment. The tickets will be distributed through local queer clubs, rainbow youth groups, and educational institutions.
It’s part of Winter Pride’s broader efforts, working with organizations like the Burnett Foundation and Netsafe.
For more information and tickets visit www.winterpride.co.nz.
VENUE HIRE
Winter Pride directors Sam Coulthard, right, and Odette Rose
GOINGS ON ABOUT
EVENTS - MUSIC - ART
THEATRE - AT THE GALLERIES
Make Your Own Beeswax Wraps
COMMUNITY
This free workshop teaches people to make ecofriendly beeswax wraps. Ditch cling film and singleuse plastics by crafting your own sustainable, reusable food wraps. Keep your food fresh while reducing waste! Materials will be provided. Contact Queenstown Library to book a spot.
Have you got the winning numbers? Bingo Night is coming to Queenstown Library. It doesn’t matter if you’re a bingo enthusiast or a first timer, everyone’s welcome for an evening of fun and friendly competition. We promise plenty of laughs, and some great prizes and it’s free too. Grab your mates or family and come enjoy a bit of bingo! See you there!
Spaces are limited, please email Queenstown.Library@qldc. govt.nz to register your spot.
Happiness House is hosting Men’s Frisbee Golf session next Tuesday. It’s a morning of outdoor fun and friendly competition and it’s free. Whether you’re a seasoned frisbee golfer or new to the game, this event is a great way to get active, meet new people, and enjoy the fresh air. Keen to get involved? Meet at Happiness House just before 10am, then everyone will head down to the Te Kararo Queenstown Gardens frisbee golf course and get stuck into it!
Calling all lovers of the mountain! If you love getting out and about in the snow, why not pledge to make some simple changes to preserve and protect your favourite part of nature? Join Sustainable Queenstown and Resourceful Communities for an evening of short films and inspiring speakers, and learn about easy, everyday swaps to go plastic and single-use packaging free, and shred happier, knowing you’ve done your bit. Altitude Brewing have craft beverages and kai available for purchase. Resourceful Communities is created by Wastebusters, proudly supported by QLDC Zero Waste District Programme, and delivered in the Whakatipu by Sustainable Queenstown.
Join Caroline Barron for an immersive three-hour memoir-writing workshop with an award-winning author. This is a rare opportunity to refine your craft, unlock your creativity, and bring your personal story to life. Caroline is an award-winning author, manuscript assessor, story coach, and presenter. She has a Masters in Creative Writing and her memoir, Ripiro Beach, won the 2020 New Zealand Heritage Literary Award for Best Non-fiction Book. Bring a pen and paper or your laptop. Tea and coffee provided. Tickets are $59. For more and to book, go online to Te Atamira’s website.
When: Sunday, 21 July, 10.30am – 1.30pm
Where: Te Atamira, Remarkables Park Shopping Centre, 12 Hawthorne Drive
Coronet Peak Saturday Night Ski
This Saturday is the final Saturday Night Ski of the season. Enjoy the floodlit slopes, best après and tunes on the deck from local DJs. You’ll need a 3 Peak Pass or Night Ski Pass. Night skiing on Wednesdays and Fridays continues until 1 September.
When: Saturday, 20 July, 4pm - 9pm
Where: Coronet Peak ski field
EVENTS
Ayrburn Christmas Wonderland
Discover a magical Christmas Wonderland 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, 1 Ayr Avenue, Arrowtown
MARKETS
Plastic-Free Night Market
This Plastic-Free July, discover local, sustainable businesses, products and services that can help you make everyday swaps so you can live plastic and single-use free. Just one swap can make a huge difference! What will yours be? From coffee roasters to candle makers, honey merchants to sustainable clothing and jewellery, there is a great line up of vendors who contribute to our community’s sustainability journey. Come sample their fantastic products, and take some home for yourself. Don’t forget to bring your own reusable cups, containers, and shopping bags! Resourceful Communities is created by Wastebusters, proudly supported by QLDC Zero Waste District Programme, and delivered in Whakatipu by Sustainable Queenstown.
Queenstown’s second Youth Market is being held this weekend. With new stalls and plenty of returning stall holders, there is 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, 20 July, 11am-3pm
Where: MYDC, 1/13 Red Oaks Drive, Frankton, Queenstown
If you would like your show, event, exhibition or meeting promoted in Goings On drop me a line at davidgibbs@qmg.co.nz with the details
HOSPO GUIDE
16 JULY - 22 JULY
| FRANK’S | Favorites |
$22 Select Pizzas | Dine In, Takeout or Delivery
Find Out at | FRANK’S | Quiz Night Every Wed at 11th Avenue | From 6PM | Register online or 03 222 7030 |
Happy Hour 8-10pm
| FRANK’S | Happy Hour
Everyday 4 - 6pm | $10 Pints | $12
Espresso Martinis | $13 Wines |
Fridays at | FRANK’S | Tai Forrester | 11th Avenue | 6 - 9PM |
$8 Spirits, $8 Wines & $8 Tap Beer Wednesday Latin Party with DJ Pirata
| FRANK’S | Sunday Roast & Flicks | $30 Full Roast | $20 Kids Roast | Kids Film from 6PM
Monday | Live at | FRANK’S | EURO 2024 LIVE | Airing All 7AM Fixtures |
Open Thursday till Sunday with Nightly House DJs from 8pm-4am
Entry $12 Margaritas, $25 Pizza and Beer
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!
and night
We have a wide range of takeaway options to choose from Order online www.lokalqt.co.nz or give us call 03 442 5444
Huge Singles Pool Comp 8pm Start $10 Entry + House Drink
Silent Disco! 2 Venues - 3 DJ’s Free Entry
Ribera, 5pm Outdoor FireplaceDrinks
Arts+Culture
Sony artist records new album at Te Atamira
by Jess Allen
Venice Qin produces a fusion of electronic pop music with strong vocals. The 22-year-old originally hails from Auckland but now spends her time in Sydney – on a recent trip to Queenstown for the Chamber of Commerce Women in Business event she recorded four songs for her upcoming LP at Te Atamira. This is the first time a Sony-signed artist has recorded at Te Atamira and is something the team are excited about.
Music is Qin’s passion – she started singing jazz in high school and soon picked up bassoon, once featuring in a bassoon concerto with an orchestra. She added piano to her quiver and wanted to shift her attention to pop music, something she was more passionate about. She now creates catchy tunes –all of which have personal meaning and explore lived experiences; her first EP, Alien, includes themes of belonging.
“Music has been a really incredible way for me to explore different things because I think sometimes I’m not the best at knowing exactly how to feel about some things,” Qin says.
“Sometimes I just have to start creating something and the things that subconsciously come out of my mouth or from a pen tell me how I’m feeling better than sometimes I am at reading myself.”
Her relationship with Sony first came about when recording her EP, which was something she was planning to use to approach record labels with. Her manager, Benn Jae, has a good relationship with Sony Australia and thought he’d send her music to them just before the official release of her first single – they loved it and swiftly signed her.
Qin says she’d be back in Queenstown tomorrow if she could – she loved her time here and gained inspiration from the beautiful mountain scenery.
“Sydney and Queenstown are two totally different worlds. I just remember making my way to the studio and seeing all the mountains – it’s just totally
different. At any point when a creator can be put in a different space, I think it pulls different things out of them," she says.
"To me that was – we didn’t do too much writing of material there – when we were working on things that we already had, I think it just really put me in a different mind space. One where I’m seeing things in a different way. It was a really great opportunity and experience and I’d love to be back there."
Te Atamira provided the recording space, which sits next to a room holding a beautiful grand piano.
Qin got a taste of Queenstown life during her time working, she recalls seeing community groups coming and going including a dance group and art class. The bustle of the arts hub was welcome to her and her team.
“It was such a great opportunity because I really needed more time to work with Ben Malone, my producer, anyway and to be able to do it in Queenstown was really, really epic. It was just good to be in a different environment than a lot of us are used to and it just brought a lot of different perspectives to the project.”
different perspectives to the project.”
the world to her. Her new LP will focus
Qin wrapped up by saying her sincerest thanks to Te Atamira – the space was amazing, the staff were lovely and the response meant the world to her. Her new LP will focus on exploring topics including finding community within her own individuality. It isn’t due out for a wee while yet, but keep your eyes and ears open for the first singles from the LP.
It isn’t due out for a wee while yet, but first singles from the LP.
EP you can head to her website
If you want to check out Qin’s Alien EP you can head to her website veniceqin.co. You can also keep up with the progress of her newest LP by finding her on social media.
ITALIAN TO GO
SEARLE LANE QUEENSTOWN
OPEN DAILY 11AM TO 8PM
Menu & online orders: prontobygiovi.co.nz
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&Cs: 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
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.
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
THREESIXTY RESTAURANT AND
BAR
Book your table online or if you have a group enquiry please call or email us.
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
BURGERS | PIZZAS | BEERS WINGS | SPORT | COCKTAILS 35 Brecon St, Upper Village +64 9 370 0447 wahlburgers.co.nz
COMMUNITY NOTES
Community wellbeing: Evaluation shows power of collective action
By Jen Andrews
A micro-fund initiative encouraging Southern Lakes residents to find ways to connect, look after themselves and each other and also have some fun, was a standout performer in supporting community wellbeing during the COVID recovery according to an independent evaluation.
The report singled out several Te Hau Toka Southern Lakes Wellbeing Group initiatives including the Connecting Communities fund, describing it as “a highly visible initiative that extended the reach of mental wellbeing activities across the communities”.
Overall, Te Hau Toka’s mahi (work) was described as “inspiring, moving and meaningful,” proving effective in promoting evidence-based wellbeing and amplifying existing or planned initiatives across the Southern Lakes.
The evaluation identified literacy; knowledge about supports; access to community-led initiatives; and stronger partnerships to support and sustain mental wellbeing as four key outcomes that improved mental health and wellbeing.
Te Hau Toka Chair Adell Cox said “We’re humbled by what’s been collectively achieved. It shows that building community capacity and resilience by giving people the tools, education and support to look after themselves – and others – is critically important in helping them recover from adversity.”
The report was produced by Dr Delwyn Goodrick - a psychologist, academic and evaluation practitioner.
“Community ownership and participation were key and the programme demonstrated the power of collective action. Health promotion initiatives were undertaken with, and by the community, to strengthen mental wellbeing. Actions were informed by evidence. The initiatives and groups supported ensured that mental wellbeing messages reached far and wide across communities.”
When Te Hau Toka received Government funding in 2021 it quickly mobilised a programme of work and investment. This included a co-design process with the community (250 locals as well as community providers and national
experts) which identified five priority vulnerable groups: child, youth and families; business; migrant communities; new/expectant parents; and seniors.
Te Hau Toka collaborated with a range of businesses, not-for-profit groups and local Government to extend the reach of the programmes “rather than reinventing the wheel”.
The funding of Te Pou to adapt the internationally renowned evidence-based Youth Mental Health First Aid programme for New Zealand-specific use and pilot it in the Southern Lakes region was highlighted as one of the group’s key legacy initiatives. It noted “with youth mental wellbeing a national area of concern across sectors, this translational work has the capacity to add value and provide transformative change.”
Queenstown mental health education charity Headlight received $4,425 from the team at Onsen Hot Pools this month as a donation toward their work supporting mental health education in the Queenstown community. Headlight was selected by the Onsen team as part of their ‘charity of the month’ initiative.
Seniors winter wellness care packages 2023
Headlight CEO, Anna Dorsey with Emily Dyce and Krysten Madeira from Onsen
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 before consultation ends on 28 July: https://letstalk.qldc.govt.nz
Cuppa with a Councillor
Join your elected members for a cuppa and a chat about the Long Term Plan. Three more sessions remain:
• Glenorchy Hotel; Wed 17 July, 1.30-3.30pm.
• Luggate Memorial Centre; Sat 20 July, 10.30am-12.00pm.
• Arrowtown Library; Fri 26 July, 11.00am-1.00pm.
Kingston works updates
As we get closer to starting work on new three waters infrastructure in Kingston, we’re launching a newsletter to share more information and keep residents informed on what’s happening, and when. Sign up at www.qldc.govt.nz/kingston-infrastructure-works
Sunshine Bay Trail detour
A short detour is currently in place at the start of Sunshine Bay Trail while crews work to install an upgraded treatment plant at the Two Mile water intake. Once complete, this will ensure drinking water in Queenstown, Fernhill and Sunshine Bay continues to be safe and compliant. More info at www.qldc.govt.nz/two-mile-uv-treatment
Climbing wall party
Rockatipu indoor wall at Queenstown Events Centre is hosting a blacklight party from 6.00pm on Friday 19 July. Dress up in bright colours and enjoy music and games in this fun session. Climbers must be aged 13 or older. Entry just $5.
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!
Upcoming meetings & workshops
Did you know most Council and committee formal meetings and workshops are open to the public with some livestreamed and recorded? These are great opportunities to find out about decisions elected members are making for the district and your community. For times, venues and agendas visit www.qldc.govt.nz/your-council/council-meetings
www.qldc.govt.nz
LWB QUIZ
1. António Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, was previously a prime minister of which country?
2. The Vltava River runs through which European capital?
3. What is the former (English) name of Aoraki in New Zealand?
4. A cruise line is using Puerto Williams, the world’s southernmost town, as its new departure point for cruises to where?
5. What colourful item from the film Saturday Night Fever recently sold for US$325,000?
6. What sci-fi villain’s on-screen costume was inspired by samurai helmets and World War II-era gas masks?
7. The world’s oldest surviving aerial photograph captures what city?
8. The indentation in the base of a wine bottle is called a?
9. Which Irish poet wrote The Lake Isle of Innisfree?
10. The name of what dish comes from the Latin word “herba salta” or “salted herbs”?
11. Which European country has an airport named after the Roman emperor Constantine the Great?
12. Which of Saturn’s moons is the second largest moon in our solar system?
13. Who created the character of Tudor lawyer Matthew Shardlake?
14. What was in Winston Smith’s Room 101, in a classic novel of 1949?
15. What colour are the spots on a common ladybird beetle?
16. What is the highest height of a diving board used in competition?
17. What term is used in rowing to describe older competitors?
Sudoku answer on page 4
QUIZ ANSWERS:
1. Portugal | 2. Prague | 3. Mt Cook | 4. Antarctica | 5. Dance Floor | 6. Darth Vader | 7. Boston | 8. Punt | 9. WB Yeats | 10. Salad | 11. Serbia (Niš Constantine the Great Airport) | 12. Tita | 13. CJ Sansom | 14. Rats | 15. Black | 16. 10m | 17. Masters
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
jobfix.co.nz
SKIPPER - QUEENSTOWN
Part-Time, Casual, Seasonal – We’re open to all availabilities
About Us:
Ahoy! At Million Dollar Cruise, we're all about delivering unforgettable experiences aboard our scenic cruises on stunning Lake Wakatipu. Nestled in Queenstown's breathtaking landscape, we take pride in showcasing the region with top-notch service and a sprinkle of adventure.
Job Description:
We're on the lookout for enthusiastic and skilled skippers to join our crew part-time and/or casually. As our skipper, you'll navigate our cruise boat, ensuring every journey is safe, smooth, and full of fun. From daytime delights to twilight escapades, you'll play a pivotal role in crafting memories that last a lifetime.
Key Responsibilities:
• Captain the Million Dollar Cruise boat, an 16.5 metre Fiordlander with skill and flair on Lake Wakatipu from Queenstown Bay and into the Frankton Arm
• Share captivating stories and local lore with our curious guests
• Champion safety and comfort for everyone on board
• Keep our vessel shipshape with routine checks and maintenance
• Master smooth docking and undocking manoeuvres
• Team up with our crew to deliver service that sparkles
• As a minimum a valid SRL Skipper's Ticket with Passenger and length endorsements
• Safety savvy and seaworthy knowledge
• A way with words and a friendly face
• We’re open all any availabilities, casual, part time and that can be over weekdays, weekends, the occasional evening
• A passion for making waves with memorable guest experiences
What We Offer:
• Competitive pay rates that float your boat
• A crew that's as fun as the job is
• The chance to captain one of Queenstown's top attractions
• Flexible hours to suit your lifestyle
How to Apply:
If you're ready to navigate Queenstown's most spectacular waters and deliver unforgettable moments, send us your resume and a splashy cover letter to info@milliondollarcruise.co.nz, or call the GM Paul on 027 458 8880.
Let's set sail for adventure and create memories as magnificent as our lake views! Advertise your job vacancy jobfix.co.nz
HIRING
BEVERAGE MANAGER
ASSISTANT CATERING CO
WE OFFER
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, a shi� meal + easy parking. Whilst a gated and secured estate, we require over night a�endance at the lodge at all �mes.
We have the below posi�on now available:
Permanent Posi�on. We are looking for a mature person with industry experience to fill this new role. Hrs 10.45pm – 6.45am. Onsite to close down and reopen Lodge. To be onsite all night 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
•
•
•
•
•
Rātā Restaurant Assistant Manager Duty Managers
Unique opportunities!
Internationally recognised Rātā Restaurant has the ultimate career opportunity for an Assistant Manager!
Are you a Hospitality professional with a record of leadership and excellence in high end restaurant management?
Rata and also our other site Madam Woo are looking for a dynamic, energetic and confident Duty Manager who can motivate our teams to strive for excellence for our customers.
Join us in delivering a memorable dining experience to our amazing customers!
Please send cover letter and current CV to hr@gotocollection.co.nz
Queenstown Stopping Services are looking to hire EXPERIENCED PLASTERERS and TRAINEE PLASTERERS to join our team. If you would like to learn a trade with a progressive career or have valid experience and meet the following criteria we would like to hear from you:
• Be willing to commit to at least 2 years
• Have a valid work visa or permanent residency
• Have your own vehicle and full New Zealand drivers license.
• Have a good work ethic and work well in a team.
• Have a good level of physical fitness to work in a fast paced environment
We are a well established local company with a sociable team and can offer competitive hourly pay within the industry.
Please email your CV to queenstownstoppingservices@gmail.com
DISCOVER A MAGICAL CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND THIS JULY.
Escape in a garden of lights, glide across an enchanting ice rink, and delight in festive displays and attractions. Then relax by a roaring fire with a specialty drink or indulge in Ayrburn’s infamous dining experience.
