I can remember being a little shocked a few years ago when a friend, whose son is a promising skier, told me she just takes him out of primary school three days a week in winter to go up the mountains. “What does the school say about that?”, I asked. “Nothing. What are they going to say?” she replied.
Somewhat surprisingly, considering all the snow days our kids take, not to mention the long holidays in Europe and elsewhere, Queenstown Lakes has the sixth best school attendance figures of all the territorial authorities in New Zealand, according to the latest stats. Some 56.2% of kids were in school for more than 90% of the time in the 2023 academic year, compared to a national average of just 46%.
PM Christopher Luxon says that national figure is “shameful” and, with coalition buddy, David Seymour, Associate Education Minister, is talking about introducing fines and even prosecution for parents whose kids are deemed to be ‘truants’. The UK introduced a similar system a few years ago. You get a fixed fine of £160, which is around $NZ320, every time your child is absent for 10 sessions (five days) per term, and if it continues, the police are called in.
It will work a little differently in NZ, but I still think it’s a terrible idea. While much of the focus has been on families who will take their kids out of school because they “want get a cheaper airfare to Fiji in the last week of term”, as Seymour says, that’s not really a problem is it? Let’s face it, if you can afford to take your kids to Fiji, or skiing, your child will probably have a decent start in life. They’ll have good support, and the odd week off isn’t going to have a major impact. It feels quite Kiwi in a way - spirit of individual freedom and you make your own rules. And while $320 is a bit of a stinger - you will probably save that in air fares from Air New Zealand (Luxon used to be the CEO of that company, but only mentions it once or twice a conversation).
Then, for the kids who are absent for more complex reasons, be it a chaotic family life which does not provide support, or behavioural issues, or the disadvantages of an upbringing affected by poverty, or parents with substance abuse problems, or other social pitfalls, how does fining and potentially prosecuting the parents help? It is only going to add stress, conflict, stigma and a financial burden to families who are already struggling in some way.
To be fair to Luxon and Seymour, there will be some families in the middle that this helps, and they did mention ‘wraparound support’ in the announcement. But it will likely do more harm than good. And I thought Seymour promised us small Government and less red tape?! Paul Taylor, Lakes Weekly Bulletin
Pop the bubbles! The Whakatipu Reforestation Trust planted its 100,000th tree last week, when more than 100 volunteers braved the cold and wet spring weather for a planting day at Jardine Park. The Trust was founded by Neil and Barb Simpson in 2013.
Photo: David Oakley. Read more on p19.
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P 03 442 3584 | E golf@qldc.govt.nz | W qldc.govt.nz/golf Cnr SH6 & Kawarau Road, Frankton, Queenstown
Queenstowners back hospital build
Queenstowners surveyed are overwhelmingly in support of continuing to build the new Dunedin Hospital, even if the budget blows out to $3 billion.
A fortnight ago, Health Minister Shane Reti and Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop sent shock waves through the lower South Island when they announced a u-turn on the hospital project.
A report found it could likely not be delivered for its $1.88b budget, and it would need to be scaled back, or completed in stages, or costs could spiral to $3b.
The announcement sparked protests in Dunedin, where more than 35,000 people marched, and also in Wānaka, where hundreds took to the streets. Dunedin is the main base hospital for Queenstown Lakes residents and everyone else in the lower South.
Lakes Weekly Bulletin runs a fortnightly survey on hot topics for Queenstown Lakes and New Zealanders, and last week we focused on the hospital project. Some 412 people responded, with 68% from Queenstown, 12% from Central Otago, and around 5% from Upper Clutha / Wānaka, Southland, and Dunedin each.
Almost two thirds of people, 62.68%, ticked the box that the Coalition Government should ‘Continue building the new Dunedin hospital as planned - knowing that it is likely to cost $1.8b or even up to $3b (when pathology lab, carparking etc is included)’.
Some 13.9% were in favour of instead using the money to improve health services in the regions, ticking ‘Don’t spend more on Dunedin hospital and instead redirect more funding into improving and expanding community hospital services in the south’.
The third most popular option, with 10.98%, was to ‘Forge ahead with a scaled back new build to keep within the original budget’, while 6.83% want to ‘Opt for a staged redevelopment and refurbishment of the existing hospital’. The remaining 5.61% either had no opinion or were unsure what the best option was.
But Bishop says there’s no chance the Government will spend $3b.
“This cost simply cannot be justified when hospitals around New Zealand are crying out for maintenance, upgrades and new facilities,” he says “Dr Reti and I are concerned that badly needed infrastructure upgrades to Whangarei, Nelson, Hawke’s Bay, Palmerston North and Tauranga hospitals may be put at risk if New Dunedin continues to go so far over budget.”
What is the original budget and the possible final budget is the subject of some debate. The project’s 2017 estimate was $1.2b-$1.4b and, while it is now $1.88b, Dunedin mayor Jules Radich told RNZ the Government’s $3b figure was an exaggeration.
“They’ve included in that things like carparking and pathology and other services that were never in this scope and were taken out of the scope two years ago,” he says.
Still, Prime Minister Christoper Luxon’s contention that the hospital would be “without doubt, the most expensive hospital in the history of the southern hemisphere”, is backed by Infrastructure New Zealand chief executive Nick Leggett. The Government is considering two options:
• Revision of the project’s specification and scope within the existing structural envelope, such as reducing the number of floors, delaying the fit-out of some areas until they’re needed, and/or identifying further services that can be retained on the existing hospital site or in other Health NZ buildings within Dunedin among other possible solutions.
• A staged development on the old hospital site including a new clinical services building and refurbishing the existing ward tower.
Officials will deliver this advice in the coming weeks.
Queenstown’s mayor Glyn Lewers, meanwhile, following a zoom meeting with Health New Zealand / Te Whatu Ora says he’s confident the hospital will be built to a decent standard. “They made it very clear there is a clinical bottom line they are not going under,” he tells the Wānaka App. He says one of the drawbacks of the hospital project was the lack of regional data feeding into decisions, leading to a “very Dunedin-centric view of the world”.
Read more on the Queenstown App and lwb.co.nz
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When: October 11th
Hours: 11AM — 9PM
At: Eatspace — 30 Camp Street Queenstown
On the fast track
by Paul Taylor
Nine Queenstown Lakes projects have been selected for the Government’s new fast-track development pathway.
They include NZSki’s project to expand The Remarkables into the neighbouring Doolans basin; Coronet Village Ltd’s plans for a gondola and housing off Malaghans Rd; and Hanley’s Farm developer RCL’s plans for a further 2800 sections in Homestead Bay.
Silver Creek Queenstown is also on the list. It plans to create a 1050-lot subdivision on the southern side of Queenstown Hill, above Frankton Rd. And the redevelopment of The Hills golf resort has also been selected, along with other projects.
Altogether they will potentially see around 6000 homes built in the district.
Minister for Infrastructure Chris Bishop announced on Sunday that 149 projects across New Zealand that have been selected for Fast-track Approvals Bill.
“These projects will help rebuild the economy, fix our housing crisis, improve energy security and address our infrastructure deficit,” Bishop says.
“They are the first cabs off the rank in our unapologetic drive to grow this economy for the benefit of all New Zealanders.”
The list includes 44 housing developments, enabling up to 55,000 homes, 43 infrastructure projects, seven aquaculture and farming projects, 22 renewable energy projects and 11 mining projects, including Santana Minerals Limited’s $4.4 billion Bendigo-Ophir Gold Project near Cromwell.
“Houses, roads, ports, renewables, quarries and mines are all fundamental requirements for our economy to thrive. Some may not like it, but there is no doubt we need all of them,” Bishop says.
“For too long, our country has been held back by red and green tape, stifling economic development for too long. Obstruction has got in the way of growth. Fast Track is all about getting New Zealand moving.”
Once the Bill is passed, likely by the end of the year, the 149 projects listed will be able to apply to the Environmental Protection Authority to have an expert panel assess their projects and apply relevant conditions.
There are 15 projects in the Otago region, including the nine in Queenstown Lakes.
NZSki boss Paul Anderson welcomed the news, although says it doesn’t mean the Doolans project is guaranteed to happen.
“It gives us an option to progress. We’ve been pretty upfront about our
intentions, that we’d like to expand into this area, if it makes sense. The feedback we’ve had from the community has been really encouraging so far. We’ll continue to engage with the community, with iwi and any other stakeholders to make sure it is something that works for everyone.”
Anderson had previously highlighted the amount of time it took to get the $23m Shadow Basin chairlift replacement approved. Forest & Bird, Ngāi Tahu and Queenstown Climbing Club all submitted objections but the Department of Conservation granted consent subject to conditions.
The final fast-track process has yet to be confirmed, but the Coalition Government’s intention is that strips away some of the red tape.
Anderson says NZSki, which also a partner in the Coronet Peak Village project, will still be required to submit all the same paperwork but to the Environmental Protection Agency “rather than to what feels sometimes like disparate agencies who don’t coordinate with each other”.
Labour meanwhile has slammed the whole Fast-track Approvals Bill, with acting environment spokesperson David Parker saying the list includes projects “that could wreak havoc on our natural environment,” including seabed mining.
“Environmental protections under the Resource Management Act, the Conservation Act, the Wildlife Act and the Mining Act can and will be overridden,” Parker says.
Queenstown Lakes projects
RCL Homestead Bay Limited - Homestead Bay
The Homestead Bay project is a residential development of 2800 residential units, subdivision, and development at the southern end of Queenstown.
NZSki Limited - Remarkables Ski Area Upgrade and Doolans
The project is to upgrade the Remarkables existing infrastructure and expand the existing Remarkables Ski Area into the adjacent Doolans Basin in Otago.
Town Planning Group - Silver Creek
The Silver Creek project is to provide for residential development and subdivision enabling approximately 1,050 dwelling units across a 32ha of urban land zoned for development.
Blackmans Creek Holdings Limited No.1 LP - Cardrona Valley Ski Gondola and Ski Area Development
The project is to establish on-mountain visitor accommodation, guest facilities and workers accommodation, and to establish and operate a highspeed electric passenger lift system to provide an access link from the Cardrona Valley to the Cardrona and Soho ski areas.
Coronet Village Limited (on behalf of 0to60 Properties / Rod Drury, NZSki Limited, Coronet Peak Partnership) - Coronet Village Otago
A new alpine village immediately below Coronet Peak, with a new gondola providing access up to ski field, new ski area development, and supporting
infrastructure. Includes a new transport hub, mountain bike facility, restaurant at the summit, boarding high school, primary school, 780-unit subdivision, roading and wastewater infrastructure.
Mt Iron Junction Limited - Mt Iron Junction Housing Scheme
The Mt Iron Junction Housing Scheme project is a housing project in Wanaka proposing to establish 263 high density units.
Town Planning Group - Gibbston Village
The Gibbston Village project is a residential and commercial development project, including 900-dwelling units, a 2.4ha commercial area for day-today amenities, provision for a 3ha primary school for about 350 students and associated infrastructure.
Tory Hill Trust - Flint’s Park Urban Intensification
The project includes the construction of 501 residential dwellings in a residential neighbourhood, around the existing heritage building that will contain a Neighbourhood Mixed-Use Centre and an automated cable way to access residential development of the lower slopes of Slope Hill.
The Hills Residences Limited and The Hills Holdings Limited - The Hills Resort Development
The project is to construct and operate a golf resort, a 18-hole championship course, and construction of resort facilities, including visitor accommodation, staff accommodation and residential activities.
The Doolans is over the top of the ridge above Curvey Basin chairlift, and early plans for access included a ski tunnel from The Remarks ski area. Photo: NZSki
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Town Centre Arterial Road project update
The confirmed opening date for the Arterial Road (stage 1) is 28 January 2025. For more information visit www.qldc.govt. nz/town-centrearterial-road
What’s happening?
We’re boosting the resilience of Queenstown’s stormwater network by replacing approximately 90m of stormwater pipe along lower Ballarat Street, between the Village Green and Stanley Street (see map). The upgraded pipe will be 900mm in diameter, which is close to double the size of the existing pipe.
This work is part of the Town Centre Arterial Road project, ultimately connecting to the significant underground service upgrades already constructed along the route of stage 1 and down some of the side streets into the town centre.
The piped stormwater network has been carefully designed to capture as much of the uphill water flow as possible. This helps to reduce potential surface water on the Arterial Road, particularly during more intense rainfall events associated with a changing climate.
These upgrades will improve water quality by treating initial stormwater runoff (which has a higher concentration of pollutants) before discharging it into Horne Creek and ultimately Lake Whakatipu.
We’re taking extra care to work around special heritage features in this area, including protected Wellingtonia trees on the corner of Stanley and Ballarat Streets, excavation near the historic courthouse building, and the Ballarat Street bridge. You can read more about this at www.qldc.govt.nz/towncentre-arterial-road SCAN FOR A VIDEO FLY THROUGH OF WHAT TO EXPECT WHILE THIS WORK IS UNDERWAY.
What to expect?
There will be changes to the road layout and access in this area while the work is underway. This is shown on the map below – key points include:
HIGHWAY ACCESS:
Stanley Street (SH6A) remains two-lanes, however there will be one-way access only into lower Ballarat Street. Two lane access will be available during Queenstown Marathon weekend, Saturday 16 November.
PEDESTRIAN ACCESS:
You’ll still be able to walk around Athol and Lower Ballarat Street to access businesses, although there may be adjustments during the works. This will be clearly signposted.
NO ACCESS TO / FROM ATHOL STREET FROM BALLARAT STREET:
Resident and business access will be maintained. Entry into Athol Street for businesses and the KFC drive-through will be available from Shotover Street.
COACH STOPS ON ATHOL STREET WILL BE RELOCATED TO STANLEY STREET:
There is not enough space for coaches to turn around on Athol Street so the safest and most efficient option is to relocate these onto Stanley Street.
TO KFC AND ATHOL STREET BUSINESSES VIA SHOTOVER STREET ONLY
TEMPORARY COACH STOPS ON STANLEY STREET
OTHER DISRUPTION INCLUDES NOISE AND VIBRATION:
We will be monitoring noise and installing sound mats on perimeter fencing where required.
Stay up-to date
These are our planned dates of work, but they may change if we’re able to finish a stage of work more quickly than expected, or it takes longer due to weather, resources or other circumstances outside of our control.
We’ll provide updates on the QLDC Facebook page and website if dates change.
VILLAGE GREEN
CRIMELINE
Bouncer bitten in vicious assault
Police are on the hunt for a young man wearing black jeans, a black jacket and white shoes after a security guard was allegedly viciously assaulted outside 1876 Bar.
Sergeant Tracy Haggart says the man, who’d been removed from the Ballarat Street bar after smashing two glasses on a table, bit the bouncer on the arm causing a broken skin graze and grabbing him around the neck where he also suffered scratches. The assault happened at 9.45pm on Monday, 30 September.
The man, who’d left the scene by the time Police arrived was unable to be located. Haggart says they’d like information from anyone who witnessed the assault and may be able to identify the person, seen in the above photo, who allegedly attacked the bouncer. (Call 105.)
Foreign drivers clocking excessive speeds
Overseas drivers are clocking excessive speeds of almost 50km/hr and 70km/hr over the 100km/hr speed limit around Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago, then trying to barter with Police over the instant $630 fine. It’s prompted Police warnings for other drivers to beware and drive defensively after they’ve noticed an increase in international drivers on local roads lately. Two visiting drivers, one an Indian visitor from Australia and the other a visitor from India, were fined $630 and had their licences suspended after clocking 149km/hr and 148km/hr just south of Garston on last Saturday.
Acting Road Policing Manager Senior Sergeant Bruce Martin says it’s a growing problem all over Central Otago with a Chinese visitor clocking in at a whopping 168km/hr near Ranfurly last week. He was arrested and charged with dangerous driving, had his licence suspended for 28 days, as is standard, and has been bailed to appear in the Alexandra District Court. The man had three passengers and offered no real explanation for his excessive speed, Martin says.
Ranfurly Police stopped another overseas driver on Tuesday (1 Oct) at an alleged 142km/hr. Another Chinese national was allegedly speeding the next day (2 Oct) at 112km/hr in pouring rain, at Wedderburn, near Ranfurly. Officers also pursued an international driver from China for 8kms on the Crown Range the same day (2 October) after he was driving on the wrong side of the road towards an oncoming vehicle, narrowly avoiding a head on collision. The driver persistently failed to stop despite the patrol car’s flashing lights, then sped through Cardrona township at an alleged 80km/hr. Police have noticed increased numbers of overseas visitors on local roads with growing numbers expected and Martin says they’re urging other drivers to be extremely vigilant and cautious, particularly in the lead-up to the Christmas holiday season.
Drink driving at a car wash
A very intoxicated 38-year-old Australian man was seen trying to drive a vehicle through a car wash in Frankton Road around 6.15pm on Monday (30 September). The man, who was still in the car wash by the time Police arrived, blew a breath alcohol level of 1219mcgs and will appear in the Queenstown District Court on 4 October.
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NEWS IN BRIEF
New owners for Long Lunch
You Gather Events has taken over ownership of Arrowtown’s popular Long Lunch, which has been rebranded Longtable. The Buckingham Street event, which sees restaurants and bars serve people at tables in the middle of the historic street, has run for 13 years and was formerly managed by the Arrowtown Promotions and Business Association. Local couple Laura Saville and Campbell Ross have taken the reins but won’t run it this year. “Offering the highest customer experience is a top priority for us and [with] the short timeframe to the event we did not want to deliver something to jeopardise the event for future years,” Ross says. “It also gives us the opportunity to further connect with local businesses and ensure the event’s support causes minimal disruption.” Arrowtown Longtable will return on Friday, December 5, 2025. Details and ticket sales will be announced mid-next year.
Housing progress
Queenstown Lakes District Council has published its first annual monitoring report on the Joint Housing Action Plan and will be co-hosting a community hui next week to discuss the district’s lack of affordable housing. QLDC Strategic Housing Officer Emily Irwin says: “We know that increasing housing supply alone won’t solve the problem, so we’ve included in the plan 34 actions to address the district’s housing challenges.” Successes this year include arranging $10 million worth of contributions (land and money) from developers to Queenstown Lakes Community Housing Trust (QLCHT), partnering with the Trust on its Tewa Banks development in Arrowtown, and progressing the Ladies Mile plan. QLCHT is co-hosting the hui and Chief Executive Julie Scott has plenty of updates for the community, with over 100 homes currently under construction or in the design stage.”We’re excited to share at the upcoming hui what we’re up to, as well as what we have in the pipeline,” Scott says. “Feedback from the community influences the Trust’s strategic direction, so we hope plenty of folks will come along and provide feedback on plans”. The community hui 6.30pm next Thursday, 17 October, at Queenstown Events Centre.
New trail opens
Hundreds of cyclists enjoyed the spring sun over the weekend by heading out on the new Wharehuanui Trail linking Arrowtown to Arthurs Point. Some 13km of new trail has been constructed along the northern side of the Whakatipu Basin, following the foothills of Coronet Peak, and tracing Mill Creek from its source before connecting into the existing Countryside Trail at Millbrook. The new trail is the result of seven years of work by Queenstown Trails with the support of many stakeholders and the community. “We are so grateful to the landowners who have worked with us throughout this project, recognising the benefit of the trail for our community and granting access to assist in creating an asset that will benefit the Whakatipu now and for future generations,” Queenstown Trails CEO Mark ‘Willy’ Williams, says. Williams has championed the expansion of the Queenstown Trails network – having identified a gap in the network and the benefits of trails for community, economic benefit, and conservation initiatives. “The big focus of the Wharehuanui Trail is creating a seamless recreational link between the valley trails and the wider backcountry MTB trail network on and around Coronet Peak and Mahu Whenua.” The Trust’s trail counters aren’t in place yet, but it was definitely well used over its first weekend.
along to our Community Hui on Housing next Thursday and hear from QLDC Housing Of cer Emily Irwin and QLCHT Chief Executive Julie Scott.
QUEENSTOWN DHARMA CENTRE, 12 LAKE ST
TUE (8 Oct), @ 6.30pm, Group Sitting Practice
TUE (15 Oct), @ 6.30pm, The Bodhisattva’s Journey with Grant Rix SUN (13 Oct), @ 10am, ‘Cultivating Awareness Practice’ followed by ‘Social Sunday’
All are welcome. Classes are free. Donations for the teacher/centre are gratefully accepted. See www.dharmacentre.org.nz or FB
EATSPACE – YOUR PASSPORT TO FLAVOUR
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Eatspace offers authentic flavours drawn from influences across the globe, all in a casual dining format.
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Located in O’Connells Mall. Monday - Friday 8.30am - 9pm.
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
Saturday - Sunday 11am - 9pm TAPRI
Indian Fusion on the Move
Serving freshly prepared Indian dishes, a perfect quick and delicious meal on the go. Visit our Facebook page, or Instagram @tapri2k23 for location updates on where to find our food truck. We cater to private events. Ph: 0221 236 640 | 0211 184 515 goodfoodlimited23@gmail.com
GOINGS ON ABOUT
EVENTS - MUSIC - ART
THEATRE - AT THE GALLERIES
Little Cinema 3
FILM
Little Cinema is a spectacular short film showcase that supports filmmaking at grassroots levels in the Queenstown Lakes District area. With short films from sketches, documentaries, music videos, animations and more, this promises to be a fun night for all lovers of film. Little Cinema was set up by an Irish film enthusiast, Brendan O’Donnell, who sought a platform for filmmakers to network and grow and see their films on the big screen. It gives all film-makers the opportunity to showcase their films to an encouraging audience in a relaxed setting. Tickets are $12 and online at Te Atamira.
When: Sunday, 13 October, 7.15pm - 10pm
Where: Te Atamira, Remarkables Park Town Centre, 12 Hawthorne Drive, Frankton
MUSIC
At the World’s Edge Festival | Chamber Music Festival in the Southern Alps
At the World’s Edge is a chamber music festival inspired by the Southern Alps. Exploring the prism of our collective identity, this year’s festival spans seven programmes across Queenstown, Wānaka, Bannockburn and Cromwell, with folk music at its core and additional free events and experiences throughout. With spectacular sounds against our majestic scapes, experience the power of chamber music alongside internationally renowned musicians, lifelong enthusiasts, and curious adventurers alike. More than a series of live music events, AWE is a platform for the arts in our region and a spark for creativity to come. For programme and tickets see Queenstown App or online at worldsedgefestival.com
When: Runs until Friday, 18 October
Where: Venues in Queenstown, Wānaka, Bannockburn and Cromwell
Nairobi Trio on tour
With 10 albums under their belts and over 35 years of national and international touring experience, the Nairobi Trio have spent much of the past two years reconnecting with their audiences across the Motu and abroad.
The band - Richard Adams on violin and vocals, John Quigley on guitar and vocals, and Aaron Coddel on bass and vocals - are renowned as New Zealand’s favourite ‘jazz entertainers’, showcasing skilfully-crafted original material, drawing from jazz, Celtic and Aotearoa music, along with reimagined jazz standards and some popular repertoire, to create a dynamic engaging live show. They are playing the Sherwood and Kinross. Tickets available from www. iticket.co.nz (search Nairobi Trio).
More events available at WHAT’S ON on the Queenstown App
Download the Queenstown App today
Workshop: Grow Your Own Veggies with Dr Compost
Dr Compost’s free gardening workshop will give you the know how to turn your backyard into a productive local food hub. Dr Compost’s top tips come from 20+ years of growing and composting in our harsh climate. In this workshop you’ll learn:
• how to build a raised bed to using mulch to conserve moisture in the soil
• which vegetables grow best in the Queenstown Lakes district
• when to plant for the best yields
• how to grow from seed, transplant seedlings and stagger plantings to avoid gluts
• all about the magic of compost to add life to your soil, increase its water holding capacity and feed your plants
Get your free ticket online at Humanitix.co.nz
When: Wednesday, 16 October, 6pm - 8pm
Where: Sherwood, Frankton Road
Free mulch giveaway
QLDC’s popular free mulch giveaway is taking place on Saturday. For the green thumbs, gardeners and anyone else interested in the area come and grab all the mulch you can carry. The mulch is produced from green waste that is diverted through the Council transfer stations. There will be a loader on site to help, and QLDC recommends coming along with a shovel, tarpaulin, and whatever you want the mulch to go into. There will be plenty of mulch available so there was no need to rush down out of fear of missing out. Follow the signs and instructions staff on site provide to help guide you through the area. In the event of bad weather, QLDC will announce any event cancellations on its Facebook page.
When: Saturday, 12 October, 10am – 2pm
Where: Lower Shotover Delta just off Tucker Beach Road
Queenstown Lakes Christmas Show Auditions
Join our talented local cast on a festive and comic adventure to discover the Christmas traditions around the globe. Auditions are open to all children aged from 8-14 years. In this heartwarming Christmas show, two curious siblings are magically whisked away on a global adventure by the Yule Cat, a wise yet mischievous feline from Icelandic folklore, and the Yule Crew—a lively group of holiday spirits from around the world. As they visit different countries, the children discover unique Christmas traditions. Through their journey, they learn the universal spirit of kindness, giving, and togetherness that transcends cultures. Along the way, the Yule Crew teaches the children the deeper meaning of Christmas, showing them that while traditions may differ, the joy of the season is something everyone shares. We are seeking a cast of 15 youths who will sing, dance and act. More information is online at christmasshow.co.nz
When: Sunday, 13 October, commencing from 9am
Where: Lake Hayes Pavilion, 719 Lake Hayes-Arrow Junction Highway
Hullabaloo Artists in Arrowtown | Contemporary Art Exhibition
Hullabaloo Art Space is a collective artist-run gallery in Cromwell. They are exhibiting in Arrowtown until 10 November, featuring an outstanding showcase of the 14 artists’ work in sculpture, photography, ceramics, jewellery, and painting. Each body of work on display tells a unique story, reflecting the artists’ individual styles and techniques. This exhibition also highlights their shared dedication to collaboration, creating an inspiring contemporary art experience for visitors.
When: Runs until 10 November
Where: Lakes District Museum & Gallery, Arrowtown
functionsChristmas
As we count down the weeks until Santa arrives and the summer holidays kick off, it’s a great time to reflect on what 2024 has brought us. It’s been a challenging year with staffing shortages, visa hurdles, and ongoing health concerns, but amidst it all, your team has truly risen to the occasion.
This Christmas function is not just a celebration; it’s a heartfelt opportunity to acknowledge everyone’s hard work and dedication. It’s a chance to come together, relax, and appreciate the contributions each team member has made.
Plus, with everyone looking forward to this festive gathering, it’s the perfect way to boost morale as we approach the busy summer season.
Don’t wait too long to secure your venue! Many places have limited capacity this year, and bookings will fill up fast. Getting ahead of the curve ensures that you can create a memorable celebration for your wonderful team. Let’s make this holiday season one to remember!
Book your Christmas Party in advance or… Your Hen’s Party, Birthday Party, Sports Team, Work Function or come on your own! Large groups catered too!
HOSPOGUIDE
Having
night in?
We
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$25 BBQ meat platter, dine in or takeaway, Fridays only 12pm to 5pm. Limited offer!
Uncovered: Original Music Showcase x Lokal Live Tuesday 22 October from 7pm, head to our Facebook page to find out more. @lokalkitchenandbarqt
Tuesday Stick & Puck session for Hockey Players from 6.15pm
Famous $15 all day Breakfast from 10am till 9pm daily.
ALL-DAY ICE SKATING, BUMPER CARS & FRISBEE GOLF FOR SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN!
Monday $15 Nacho
Tuesday $19 Burger & fries deal
Wednesday $20 Pint & Poutine
Thursday $20 Chicken Parmy & fries
Sunday-Tuesday CLOSED Everyday Locals Loyalty Rewards WednesdaySaturday Food Truck, TACOS JAGUAR Friday OPEN MIC 6.30-9.30pm, Every Friday, Elle & Alex Music Saturday OKTOBER FEST tickets on Eventfinda, 1-10pm Everyday DOG
Tuesday Trick Tips
Tuesday (6.30-7.30pm)
Wednesday Adult Coaching Night
Progress your skills (6.30-7.30pm) Thursday Social Night
Cocktails $12 Tap beer $7 House spirits $7 J-Bombs $6
$25 for 2 hours (6.30-8.30pm) Friday Skate Night
$10 for 2 hours Mini Ramp Access (6.30-8.30pm)
SKY SPORTS
9PM SMOTHERED OR DRY RUBBED | 21 FLAVOURS Thursday BIG DAWG DAY HALF OFF BIG DAWGS UNTIL 9PM
BURGER DEAL $2 OFF ANY BURGER 12 PM - 5 PM
Monday Free to Watch Ice Hockey – 3 Games from 6.15pm
$6 Beer handles 7 days a week
Sunday 2-for-1 Jump Night
Bring your mate for free (6.30-7.30pm)
Great sounds- vinyl/ retro and current hits Open Fire
BREWDAY $5 OFF SELECTED JUGS 12PM5PM Sunday CAESAR SUNDAYS $2 OFF CAESARS & BLOODY MARYS ALL
Everyday BOOK OUR TAPROOM FOR FUNCTIONS Tuesday DJ Grzly From 9pm
Silent Disco! 3 DJs 3 Channels Free Entry
The Balcony
Mitch EP From 9pm
HAPPY HOUR EVERYDAY $12 poutine and cheap drinks 3-5pm
$12 poutine and cheap drinks 3-5pm
Open 7 days week, 2 hour seating, From 5pm | ½ Deep Dish Pizza & 375ml Carafe pp - $35 pp Happy Hour
From 4pm - 6pm Corona bucket $30. Wine $9. Tap Beer $9. Cocktails $14
Danny Atkinson From 5pm in the beer garden
Monday TRIVIA NIGHT Every Monday at 6.30PM $200 Total Bar Tabs for 1st & 2nd Place!
Burger Mondays $25 Burger’n’Beer form 5pm
All Day Dining Menu From 12pm - Late
Arts+Culture
Nairobi Trio: A musical journey
across New Zealand
The Nairobi Trio is revisiting the South Island after several years away from the regional stage, the trio - hailing from the eclectic Auckland neighbourhoods of Grey Lynn, Ponsonby, and Waiheke Island - returns to share their infectious energy and rich musical legacy.
With 10 albums and over 35 years of national and international touring experience, the Nairobi Trio is not just a band; they are a beloved staple of New Zealand’s musical landscape. Throughout 2023 and 2024, the trio has been reconnecting with fans across the Motu, reigniting the spark of live performance that has defined their career.
Often dubbed New Zealand’s favourite “Jazz Entertainers,” the Nairobi Trio has played in a diverse array of venues—from quaint village halls and picturesque vineyards to grand theatres and festivals. Their extensive touring resume boasts 20 international trips, with performances at iconic locations such as Raffles Hotel in Singapore and festival stages across the UK, Norway, Denmark, Germany, Italy, and France.
What sets the Nairobi Trio apart is their ability to engage audiences through a dynamic live show that blends skilfully crafted original material with jazzinfused melodies and Celtic influences. Each performance is a vibrant travelogue of Aotearoa, featuring reimagined jazz standards alongside popular repertoire that keeps crowds on their feet.
During October, the Nairobi Trio is ready to remind fans just why they have earned their status as a national treasure. Don’t miss the chance to experience their unique blend of talent and charm with two performances in Queenstown that promises to be unforgettable!
Sherwood: Saturday, 12 October, 7.30pm - 9.45pm Kinross: Jazz in the Vines, Sunday, 13 October, 3pm - 5.30pm - only a few tickets left! Tickets are online at iticket.co.nz (scan the QRcode)
Folk and classical music collide
by Jessica Allen
At the World’s Edge Festival kicked off on 5 October and is delivering an extensive programme of chamber music. Running until 18 October, the festival spans across Queenstown, Bannockburn, Wānaka and Cromwell. Taking place against the spectacular backdrops of our region, the best chamber music in Aotearoa will be performed.
Chamber music is classical music played by a small group of players acoustically. The intimate shows put on will equate to stunning sounds and feelings of a personal connection with each of the individuals. This year’s theme will explore the collision of folk and classical music. It spans seven programmes, which includes free events and experiences throughout. A number of international artists will join some of New Zealand’s best to perform.
“The theme for this year is very much about how folk music has influenced classical music, through the composers we’re featuring this year,” Justine Cormack, one of the festival directors, says.
“Many of them have been strongly influenced by the folk music of their own country, or of other cultures. Music is a vehicle for expressing a culture and expressing people and place. It’s from that idea that we’ve woven the programme together.”
Anyone who’s unsure whether they’ll enjoy chamber music, or is unfamiliar with it, is encouraged to pop by one of the free events or see a show earlier in the festival, to give themselves time to see another performance later on. You can even head to the open rehearsals at Te Atamira on 9 October.
“It’s not formal, in that it’s a very welcoming environment. It’s really up close and personal in a way that you just get immersed in the sound. There’s no one way to respond to the music, too.”
The extensive programme includes works by Sergei Prokofiev, who was a Russian composer that produced dynamic music, Witold Lutosławski, who is regarded as one of the greatest Polish composers, and AWE 2024 emerging composer Estella Wallace, who is based in Wellington. Wallace is currently studying a Bachelor of Music majoring in Instrumental / Vocal Composition at Te Kōkī New Zealand School of Music. The emerging artist programme is an important part of the festival’s artistic mission. The artists that will be
highlighted this year are Sarah Lee playing violin, Tal Amoore playing viola, Christine Jeon playing cello and Henry Meng playing piano.
“Our aim is to be putting the best international musicians next to the best New Zealand ones. When you have amazing musicians playing programmes that have been curated in such a way, you’re taken on a journey. ”
The team have worked hard to pull unique sounds from all corners of the globe. Expect to hear a melting pot of cultural influences throughout the performances. Woven throughout you’ll also hear from Eve de CastroRobinson, who is this year’s Composer in Residence and highly esteemed in New Zealand. Cormack advises everyone to come along and just let the music have its own impact.
“There are lots of different ways that people can engage with the festival. People who are completely new to it could turn up to any of the main programmes and they will love it, because you can just immediately engage and respond to the music. I think people will be really blown away. It’s really no coincidence that Ben and I set this festival up here – we really wanted to have it in this awe-inspiring area,” Cormack says.
At the World’s Edge Festival will have performances throughout Queenstown, Bannockburn, Wānaka and Cromwell from 5 – 18 October. There are a total of seven festival programmes in addition to free events and community performances. You can find more information about the artists and programme, and find the free events or purchase tickets at worldsedgefestival.com
COMMUNITY NOTES
Wao Summit
The Wao Summit returns to Queenstown and Wānaka this month with masterclasses, kōrero, tours and a community festival, from 29 October - 2 November.
The Wao Summit aims to bring deeper meaning and purpose to business and everyday life. The tours and masterclass sessions will set you on a pathway to action, helping you lead with purpose, and be part of the transformation towards a thriving future.
For Business:
How we do business is changing. Is your business prepared?
Wao Summit Better Business sessions offer business leaders and owners a unique opportunity to revolutionise their approach to business by learning how to operate with greater purpose and sustainability. The day is set to explore new sustainable practices that not only enhance profitability but also contribute positively to the environment and society. This is the new normal, and expectation. It’s about business with purpose and this is your opportunity to get up to speed.
The masterclasses will provide meaningful growth through expert panel discussions and networking sessions enabling participants to implement new strategies from the moment they walk out the door. Sessions will be to the point and drive action now.
Keynote speakers include:
• Monique Kelly - Wao & Revology
• Tim Jones - The bCorp Guy
• Nick Baty - Bastion Security Group
• Dr Carly Green - Environmental Accounting Services
For Wānaka, a Better Business Pass at $80 receives access to all five sessions across the day, while single session tickets are available for the Queenstown.
XS STORAGE
Secure self storage units – various sizes available Phone: 0800 297 786 | www.xsstorage.co.nz
Better Business Day Wānaka: Wednesday, 30 October, at the Lake Wānaka Centre.
Better Business Queenstown: Thursday, 31 October, at the Te Atamira.
Head to www.wao.co.nz/summit2024 for tickets, passes and the programme. Building and Construction: How do we build better?
While New Zealand aims for a construction sector with positive sustainable behaviours such as low-carbon practices, waste reduction techniques, and resilient and climate smart material use, the truth is that the country is behind many other comparable nations.
For the first time the Wao Summit is dedicating an entire day in Queenstown and Wānaka to the building sector. The full day programme is for building industry professionals and will focus on innovative approaches to sustainable construction and design.
Gain insights into the latest developments and technologies for better building, network with leaders in the field, and learn how to integrate these practices into your own projects.
Key Sessions include:
• Building for the Future
• NZGBC Homestar Masterclass
• Integrated Design & Materials Circularity
• Toolbox Talks: Onsite Management
Wao has created a building pass especially for the Wānaka day that allows pass holders to attend a whole day of sessions and includes a catered lunch and evening building banter session. BETTER BUILDING PASS $90 + bf
The full programme of events can be viewed online at our Wao Summit page WĀNAKA – Thursday, 31 October, Luggate Memorial Centre QUEENSTOWN – Friday, 1 November, Sherwood
5 DAY CANCER CARE PROGRAM
Don Kim, acupuncturist & Korean Hand Therapy specialist oawcentre@gmail.com / 0276982136
Monique Kelly, Wao Summit – co-founder
My Life Story
by Sue Fea
PIP LANE
Pip in the fast Lane
From clandestine historic French bridge leaps with bungy pioneer AJ Hackett to conquering New Zealand’s highest mountain Aoraki Mount Cook, experienced Queenstown physio Pip Lane has lived life to the full. Raised on the Coromandel beaches, the daughter of a surgeon and nurse, Pip, was a passionate runner, representing her district in cross country.
A quick pre-OE trip south as a freshly graduated physio student in 1985 landed Pip a Queenstown job with Sue Farry where she became hooked on skiing. She then worked as a physio in London saving for four months around Europe.
Money was tight travelling with friends in a Kombi. “We’d share one coffee just so we could clean our teeth in the handbasin at the café.” Out walking the Greek coast alone, she stumbled into a Club Med without realising. “A Belgian girl shared her coupons with me for this amazing buffet dinner and at midnight I took off back to the Kombi like Cinderella,” she laughs. By 1987 Pip had returned to Queenstown Physiotherapy to work for Sue. “She was a fantastic boss, amazing. Any opportunity that came up she’d say, ‘Go for it’.’”
It was advice Pip ran with.
The following year a couple of entrepreneurial, adventurous young Kiwi speed skiers, AJ Hackett and Henry Van Asch, arrived in town, catapulting Queenstown and commercial bungy onto the world stage. Pip, then dating Henry, was right there with them, even during one of AJ’s most famous radical French leaps off the 147m (482ft) Pont de la Caille in 1989 – then the world’s tallest bungy jump. France had banned bungy a few years prior after AJ’s widely publicised jump from the Eiffel Tower, so AJ, Henry, Pip and friends worked undercover all night in an underground car park making the bungy. “At sunrise we jumped, AJ, Henry and then me,” she grins. “It was very clandestine. I can’t believe I did that,” she laughs. “I just had such faith in those boys.”
Snowboarding was just emerging in the French Alps, so they brought back boards, among the fi rst to appear on Coronet Peak, attracting odd looks. Fortunately, Pip’s unsteady sea legs saved her from being shipwrecked off the tip of NZ when a fl atmate invited her as crew on a yacht delivery from Cairns to Wellington. A seasick Pip had fl own the Tasman stretch but the boys, who hit a storm in the Rangoon Moon, survived.
Legendary physio Al Garrard joined the Queenstown practice in the early 1990s. “Everybody loved ‘Monster’ and he really enhanced my career.” Pip later did post graduate studies in manipulation.
Around that time heaps of young Japanese snowboarders arrived dyeing their hair orange and boarding every day. “We’d be open until 9pm just to strap them all up ready for the next day. You did anything you could to keep them on the slopes,” she says. “They’d have a crazy season snowboarding and at the end of winter they’d dye their hair black again and go home to be respectful.”
In summer Pip developed a love of tramping and climbing, travelling to the Himalayas to trek in Nepal with renowned local guide Mark Whetu, climbing Island Peak at over 6000m.
She and local doctor Fiona McPherson also did the challenging Snowman Trek in Bhutan climbing 11 5000m passes – one of the hardest treks in the world. “We paid $US200 a day to be in the country on that guided trip spending 21 days in remote mountains. The village kids had never seen blonde hair. They wore dried yak cheese necklaces to gain fat as they’d always lived at high altitude.”
In the early 2000s Sue asked Pip one evening to treat a wealthy American billionaire client, in NZ for the America’s Cup, at Punatapu Lodge. The woman then fl ew Pip to the family superyacht in Auckland for follow up and a month later to Aspen, New York and Miami as her personal physio. Sue, Pip and six other women, all special in this woman’s life, were fl own to Bhutan to celebrate her 50th birthday. “I was the youngest at 41. The eldest was an inspirational 85-year-old Texan Tiger Moth pilot.”
By 2007 Pip had got together with long-time friend and physio classmate Andy Ralph, then living in the US. After a short stint there they moved back to Queenstown where, “just in the nick of time”, Pip, aged 46, became pregnant with their twins Isaac and Mia in 2010.
When they were preschoolers, the family lived in Northern Queensland for three years, where Pip worked in a pain management clinic – a highlight taking their four-year-olds snorkelling on Great Barrier Reef with their 88-year-old grandfather.
Back in Queenstown they opened Move Physiotherapy in 2016, selling to APM Workcare in 2022. They still work there where Pip’s a strong advocate for treating acute and chronic pain differently. “Chronic pain requires a different approach and often needs input from a multi-disciplinary team.”
Adjusting to motherhood at 47 was huge, but “the best thing I’ve ever done”. “They continue to challenge us and enrich our lives.”
From left, Pip, Andy, Mia and Isaac on holiday in Australia recently
AJ Hackett, front, attaching the bungy chord for Pip, left front, ready for her to leap off the 147m (482ft) Pont de la Caille early that morning in 1989
Pip, right, heli-boarding locally in the early days with Tahitian speed skier ZaZa
There was champagne and cheers as the Whakatipu Reforestation Trust planted its 100,000th tree last week.
The native seedling was one of 2000 put in the ground by more than 100 volunteers who turned out in the rain at Jardine Park on Thursday, 3 October. Sararose Brown, Whakatipu Reforestation Trust Operations Manager, says the milestone stands as a testament to the passionate volunteers who’ve put in the hours over the past 10 years for the Trust, founded by Neil and Barb Simpson in 2013.
“Planting Whakatipu Reforestation Trust’s 100,000th tree is a proud moment for our community,” she says. “It’s a powerful symbol of what can be achieved when we work together to restore native biodiversity.
“Planting native species is a vital part of safeguarding Queenstown’s unique ecosystems and natural landscapes. Events like these not only contribute to the restoration of native habitat but also help to build climate resilience.”
Jardine Park is a Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) reserve and one of the Whakatipu Reforestation Trust’s (WRT) nine keystone sites. The industry planting day, a collaboration between WRT, Love Queenstown, Mana Tāhuna, Skyline, and QLDC, doubled the number of native trees on the site. Many of the volunteers were from Queenstown’s tourism industry, getting involved through the Love Queenstown scheme.
Ash Bickley, Love Queenstown Community Fund Coordinator, was thrilled with the turnout at Jardine Park, and the commitment the tourism community has shown since Love Queenstown was established last year.
“Love Queenstown exists to connect our visitors and visitor industry with opportunities to donate, lend a hand, and give back to our local environment. It’s so heartening to see our business community come together in this way.”
For more information on future planting events or to get involved, head to www.loveqt.co.nz.
Regeneration is the destination
Destination Queenstown boss Mat Woods is the guest on this week’s Outlet Queenstown podcast, talking about the journey towards a regenerative tourism industry.
Woods and DQ are one of the driving forces behind Queenstown Lakes’ destination management plan, which includes the visionary goal of a Carbon Zero tourism industry by 2030, and has created the Love Queenstown initiative.
With podcast host Brent Harbour, he discusses the core objectives of the plan, which was developed during the Covid-19 pandemic and aims to balance sustainability with growth and ensure the visitor economy contributes positively to the district.
He delves into Queenstown’s tourism strategy, which is shifting focus to attracting visitors who stay longer and engage more deeply with the community, mitigating some of the environmental impacts, and gives his thoughts on innovative solutions, such as the potential for a gondola connecting downtown to the airport.
And he talks about the upcoming Queenstown Marathon, tourism in general and the standout sticky date pudding at Walter Peak.
Listen on lwb.co.nz and the Queenstown App. 100,000 and counting!
Drop anchor on Navigation Safety Bylaw
We invite your feedback on the draft Navigation Safety Bylaw 2025, aimed at ensuring safe enjoyment of our lakes and rivers. Find out more at one of our drop-in sessions:
• Sat 12 Oct, 11.00am-2.00pm; Wānaka Coastguard, Lakeside Rd.
• Thu 17 Oct 11.00am-2.00pm; Queenstown Memorial Hall.
• Sat 19 Oct 11.00am-2.00pm; Queenstown Coastguard, Sugar Lane, Frankton.
Have your say before 31 Oct at http://letstalk.qldc.govt.nz
Housing hui
Keen to hear more about the work QLDC and QLCHT are doing to improve housing in the district? Want to share your own ideas? Come along to our Community Hui on Housing: 6.30pm, Thu 10 Oct at Queenstown Events Centre mezzanine meeting room. Hot drinks and snacks provided!
National earthquake drill
Sign up to ShakeOut, Aotearoa’s yearly earthquake drill on Thu 24 Oct. Remeber to drop, cover and hold! Sign up and be in to win prizes at www.getready.govt.nz
Christmas Show auditions
The annual Christmas Show is your chance to shine on stage. Auditions take place 9.00am-4.00pm, Sun 13 Oct at Lake Hayes Pavilion. Sign up at www.christmasshow.co.nz
Don’t let good ideas go to waste!
What should a waste management and minimisation plan for the district focus on? If you have an idea for how we can build a low-waste future together, post it online at https://letstalk.qldc.govt.nz/wmmp
Free mulch giveaway
Head to Lower Shotover Delta (off Tucker Beach Rd) to grab free mulch for your garden or landscaping project. Bring a trailer or your own bags and a shovel. Sat 12 Oct between 10.00am-2.00pm. No need to book or turn up early –there’s heaps to go around.
Arts funding available
Got a creative idea or arts project and need funding support? Grants of up to $2,000 are available from the Central Lakes Arts Support Scheme (CLASS). For more info and an application form visit www.qldc.govt.nz/community-funding
Recycling low-down at the libraries
Celebrate Recycling Week 2024 at a library near you! Join us for a Q&A session on Wed 23 Oct and master your kerbside recycling:
•Queenstown Library – 10.00-11.00am.
•Frankton Library – 12.00-1.00pm.
www.qldc.govt.nz
Volunteers at Industry Planting Day. Photo: David Oakley
LOOKING FOR A PROFESSIONAL WORKSPACE in
Rent
Arrowtown?
Rent a desk in a warm modern office building, complete with kitchen facilities, boardroom access, and shower/toilets. Located in the heart of Arrowtown. For more details call 03 409 8126
HOUSE SITTER, PET SITTER, PROPERTY Caretaker. Trustworthy, reliable, flexible, caring and resourceful. Available from 15 December. Phone Trisha 0210 733 790.
LAWN MOWING SERVICE
Operating in Queenstown
Ride On mowing, Lifestyle Properties, Any property big or small, Push Mowing, Weedeating, Spraying. Phone Matt Lawton 02041211923 mlmowingservices@gmail.com
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
DO YOU WANT TO LEARN SPANISH?
OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD. Fill ashoebox with gifts for a child in poverty in the Pacific and change lives. Boxes/info at Fresh Choice & Salvation Army Family Stores; Gorge Rd & Pin Oak Ave (below High Scool). Return by 25 October. Sharon 027642 7575
THE KIWI KIT COMMUNITY TRUST AGM. Join us for our Annual General Meeting! Date: 5 November 2024. Location: Joe’s Garage, Frankton Five Mile. Time: 7pm. Register to attend: kiaora@thekiwikitcommunity.org
Everything Else Community
DR COMPOST’S FREE ‘GROW YOUR own veggies’ workshop will help you turn your backyard into a productive local food hub. Wednesday, 16 October, 6-8pm, Queenstown. Tickets available at wastebusters.co.nz/events or Humanitix.
CURIOUS ABOUT COMPOSTING? OR HAVE a compost conundrum? Come along to Dr Compost’s FREE ‘Composting for a Bumper Crop’ workshop. Wednesday, 23 October, 6-8pm, Queenstown. Tickets available at wastebusters.co.nz/events or Humanitix.
ISITE QUEENSTOWN IS MOVING - Queenstown isite on Shotover Street is undergoing a shop refit starting on 15 October. We are moving to a temporary location at The Station Building, across the road.
VOLUNTEER AT THE 2024 WAO Summit! Join our Queenstown team for our sustainability festival on 30, 31 October and 1 November. Help with ticketing, food & drinks, or hosting - no experience needed, training provided! Volunteer for 2+ shifts and get a free festival pass! Sign up today by emailing kiaora@wao.co.nz
BOTSWANA FARM TOUR, ESCORTED BY former Otago agricultural scientist Dr Graeme Bremner. 1-27 May 2025. NZ$ 11,700 pp plus international airfares. Full details at www. selfdrivetoursbotswana.com
Online lessons here! I am a South American professional female teacher that lived in New Zealand. $30 per hour. Flexible availability. Contact sarapa21@hotmail.com or to Whapp +56 9 4516 2355 for more information
CENTRAL QUEENSTOWN OFFICE FOR RENT
Located in Camp Street (in St Peter’s Anglican Church). Very quiet and private. Rent includes power and internet. Available for 12 months with right of renewal. $700 per month. For more information or to view contact Tina on 0211 563 564.
Queenstown’s Best Pub Quiz
Tuesdays from 7pm
Ph: 03 409 2800 enquiries@qmg.co.nz jobfix.co.nz
Free entry & great prizes! www.thepig.co.nz
LWB QUIZ
1. Who was not a Mouseketeer: Ryan Gosling, Britney Spears or Katy Perry?
2. Which British prime minister referred to depression as "the black dog"?
3. Which Canadian province’s name is a word in the NATO phonetic alphabet?
4. American playwright Thomas Lanier Williams III is better known by what name?
5. Which famous British actress died recently potentially best known for her role in Downton Abbey?
6. Inside which historic London attraction can you find the Crown Jewels?
7. What was left in Pandora’s box after she opened it and released evil?
8. What name is given to the yarn or fabric made from the fleece of the Angora goat?
9. Beginning with H, which term derived from Greek tragedy described arrogant defiance of the gods, leading to the perpetrator's ultimate ruin?
10. How many months have exactly 30 days?
11. Apia is the capital of which country?
12. What colour is the middle stripe on the flags of Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Latvia and Hungary?
QUIZ ANSWERS:
Katy Perry | 2. Winston Churchill | 3. Quebec | 4. Tennessee Williams |
Dame Maggie Smith | 6. The Tower of London | 7. Hope | 8. Mohair | 9. Hubris | 10. Four (April, June, September and November) | 11. Samoa | 12. White
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
jobfix.co.nz
CINEMA MANAGEMENT & SENIOR CHEF WANTED
Full-time positions available!
There's a brand new cinema coming to town… A Silky O er Cinema! At Silky O er Cinemas, we’re redefining the movie-going experience. From leather reclining seats to a full-service bar and kitchen—featuring tap beer, cocktails, and food delivered straight to your seat—we offer an unmatched luxury experience.
We’re seeking experienced hospitality superstars to lead our venue. Available roles include:
• Complex Manager: Oversee all aspects of the site, from budgeting to driving business performance and meeting KPIs.
• Cinema Manager: The second-in-command, responsible for day-today operations.
• Senior Chef: Lead kitchen operations to ensure smooth restaurant, incinema dining, and event services.
These roles are fast-paced and dynamic, perfect for those who thrive in an energetic environment. You won’t be si ing behind a desk—you’ll be hands-on, driving operations and guest experiences.
To succeed, you’ll need a strong customer focus and team leadership skills. We’re looking for ambitious individuals who take ownership and pride in creating a cinema that customers will love to call their local.
Prior cinema experience is beneficial, but not essential—we can train the right candidates with a passion for hospitality.
If you’re looking for a long-term career with growth opportunities, we’d love to hear from you!
Apply now with your cover le er and CV to Harry at Harry.purcell@silkyo er.co.nz, and let us know which role you’re interested in.
The Dishery in Arrowtown are seeking Kitchen Staff from Chef to Kitchen Porter to join our team for the summer season ahead. We have full and part time positions available.
Our trading hours are 8am-3pm, so if you want day time hours and have your late afternoons and evenings free, please send your expression of interest to scott@thedishery.co.nz or phone/txt 021 664 553 for more information. Sorry no sponsorship opportunities at this time.
ARROWTOWN
Come and immerse yourself in the 1,500+ wines and spirits we stock and help us showcase the 100+ wines, gins, whiskies & spirits we have for tasting everyday with customers who come from all over the world.
Kitchen Hand / Barista
This is a great entry into hospitality, we will train you in preparing and serving our cheeseboard and tapas menu, and all our kitchen operations. Ideal if you are looking for 30 - 40 hours, 3-4 days a week. Additional days available if you have experience as a Barista.
Enquire confidentially via email to manager@thewinery.co.nz or drop your CV into The Winery, 27 Ramshaw Lane, Arrowtown.
Cocktail Bartender Wanted
• Competitive rates of pay
• Company wide discounts
• Must be customer service focused.
• Be driven to deliver excellence.
• Must have NZ open work rights.
To apply email kenna.matthews@whiteandwongs.co.nz
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
jobfix.co.nz
Tired of Tinder and being mucked around on sugar daddy sites?
We’re currently looking for a select number of women to join our small team at Bon Ton, Queenstown’s only (female-run) escort agency, www.bonton.co.nz. Are you healthy, adventurous, into fitness, and consider yourself attractive? If you’re over 20, live in or near the QueenstownLakes District area and think escorting might be for you… give us a call. You dictate your hours and can earn in one booking what you’ll earn in a week in other jobs. All applications are handled in confidence and with no obligation.
Contact Jennifer on 021 895 131
We’re
Hiring
•Staff
LANDSCAPE GARDENER
Mountain Landscaping & Maintenance is looking for a full time gardener to work as part of a small team maintaining a range of 50+ properties to the highest standard. Experience preferred in pruning, weed control, power tool use and plant knowledge.
Competitive pay rates, full training & PPE provided.
A NZ work visa and current drivers license are essential. Immediate start
Please email your CV and references to roy@mountainmaintenance.co.nz
Become part of the friendly team serving breakfast lunch and dinner, or late night beer and cocktails every day in The Mall. We need a certificated DUTY MANAGER for each team with full service restaurant experience or good cocktail knowledge to work a mixture of day and evening shifts.
~ Start dates negotiable for successful applicants
Applicants must be ·Available nights and weekends ·NZ citizen/resident or have current work visa Email CV to bookings@captains.co.nz or crewroom@captains.co.nz 15 Ballarat St, Queenstown
•Discounts
•A
No Late Nights or Early Mornings CHEF WANTED
Smiths offers a relaxing environment for our staff and guests alike we need someone who embodies that vibe. Our menu is very North American bar /pub inspired previous experience would be beneficial but not necessary. Successful candidates will possess at least a 6 month working holiday visa, is fluent in English and has a can do attitude. Please email your CV to Chris@smithscraftbeer.co.nz better yet pop up in person Mon-Fri between noon at 5pm Based on government regulations we can not sponsor anyone for this position.
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.
HEAD CHEF
Are you looking for a great work place with an excellent team environment?
• Historic Gastropub/Restaurant with 19 NZ Craft Beer taps, local wines and delicious food
• Opportunity to lead a fun, vibrant team
• Great opportunity to work in a business with an excellent culture
Your responsibilities will be running a motivated team to produce delicious fresh food, with seasonal changes. Efficiency, a passion for food and team building are essential. Our ideal person will have 3-5 years experience in a similar role and a genuine LOVE for what you do.
What we can offer you:
• Excellent remuneration
• Paid meal breaks
• Full Staff meals & drinks provided on shift
• 30% Staff Discount when not at work
• Excellent Staff House in Arrowtown with subsidised rent
To apply send you CV and covering letter to hello@theforkandtap.co.nz
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
We are looking for a Bicycle Workshop Mechanic / Retail Assistant to join our team for the summer biking season. Located in Frankton, Queenstown, we are a locally owned store that services and sells a variety of bikes including MTB, road, gravel and electric bikes.
Responsibilities will include
• diagnosing, quoting and servicing customer bikes
• assisting customers in store with their enquiries
The ideal candidate must have the following
• bicycle mechanic experience from previous employment
• a good knowledge base of all things bicyclerelated and a willingness to learn
• the ability to work under pressure and problem solve
• exceptional customer service skills, ability to deal with a variety of customers
• a passion for riding
This position is available from October 2024 to May 2025 (timeframe is negotiable for the right candidate). This is a full-time role, 35+ hours per week.
To apply, please email info@arrowbikes.co.nz
A CV and cover letter must be included as well as references. You will also need to have the right to work in NZ.
Ph: 03 409 2800
NZ’s #1 Original Zipline company is looking for adventurous people to join our team
Sales Executive:
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
jobfix.co.nz
This is a full time position working alongside our global sales team supporting and maintaining the growth of Ziptrek as a leading ecotourism activity in Queenstown. This role will require domestic and international travel to enhance and build new relationships
Marketing Coordinator
This is a part time role, working closely with our global marketing team, maintaining the strong brand presence in resort and online.
For the full job description for both roles, and to apply please head to our careers page - www.ziptrek.co.nz
Join the Team at Golf Federation
We are looking for a passionate and enthusiastic individual to join us at Golf Federation in Queenstown. This role can be either part-time or fulltime, and the ideal candidate must hold a current Duty Manager’s License.
At Golf Federation, we offer a unique indoor golf experience using Trackman simulators to play some of the world’s most iconic courses. We’re passionate about creating a welcoming space for both seasoned golfers and newcomers alike to enjoy the game, rain or shine. As a fully licensed premises, we provide a relaxed environment where customers can enjoy a drink while they play.
Key Requirements:
• Some knowledge or passion for golf is a must.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Ability to work in a dynamic environment and contribute to a fun, welcoming atmosphere.
• Availability for weekend & evening work is required.
• Current Duty Managers Licence
If you’re ready to share your love for golf and be part of a great team, we’d love to hear from you! Contact: Pedro at manager@golffederation.co.nz to apply or for more details.
Luxury Rental Homes Business Manager
Queenstown NZSIR
New Zealand Sotheby's International Realty Luxury Rentals division hosts the largest exclusive luxury rentals portfolio in the Southern Lakes, o ering not just accommodation but also a tailored concierge services. Our rapidly growing portfolio spans from Queenstown to Wanaka, where we continue to expand to meet the increasing demand in the luxury accommodation market. As Business Manager you will be key to supporting the future growth and profile of NZSIR’s luxury rental portfolio throughout the Wakatipu basin & beyond!.
So, if you are passionate about people and believe in exceptional service, creating dream experiences for guests and thrive on teamwork and variety, then this role could be exactly what you are looking for to elevate your career to the next level.
This is a unique opportunity to join our established and high-performing LUX Rentals team. The position has become available only due to internal growth, and we're excited to present it to the market.
Main areas of responsibilities:
• Drive the LUX rentals strategy to further expand the current luxury rental portfolio.
• Experience in using property management systems, CRM software, and other digital tools relevant to luxury rental management.
• Build and maintain strong relationships - hold a customer-first mindset, prioritising guest satisfaction as key.
• Lead and mentor the team to ensure high performance through a culture of excellence.
• Proactive and adaptable, able to manage unexpected challenges while maintaining a positive and solutions-oriented approach.
• Oversee day to day activities such as enquiries & VIP check ins as required.
Person Specification:
• Experience within hospitality / luxury sector coupled with a proven management / leadership track record.
•Valid NZ residency or citizenship.
If you think leading NZSIR's Luxury Rental division could be your ideal next career step, then please apply with a current CV and cover letter to rachel.exell@nzsir.com
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
jobfix.co.nz
Real careers, real purpose
Find professional development, master a work-life balance, and join our whānau in the most beautiful places on earth.
With a wide selection of work available, and accommodation for the right candidates, we’re here to support you for a good time AND a long time.
Some positions available in Queenstown:
• Food & Beverage Attendant - Walter Peak
• Stoker/Boiler Operator
• Coach Driver/Guide
Begin a journey to your career today Visit employment.realnz.com
SOCIAL MEDIA CONTENT CREATOR & GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Are you a creative social media whiz who takes mouth-watering food shots & can easily capture a vibe?
We’re seeking a passionate professional who can bring nine unique venues to life on social media.
If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and love crafting design & engaging content, we want to hear from you!
Send your CV & cover letter to hr@wolfgroup.nz
Send your CV and cover letter
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
LPG Driver – Rockgas Queenstown
Join the Rockgas Queenstown crew and fill your workday with good energy, great people and a ton of awesome perks.
We’re looking for a driver to deliver LPG cylinders to our customers in the Queenstown / Wakatipu area. While it's great if you've already got driving experience and your Class 2 license (even as a learner), we are also keen to hear from you if you have a full Class 1 license and want to get into driving as a career. We will support you to get your Class 2 license and give you lots of driving experience.
Your job will involve:
• Delivery of LPG cylinders to our customers
• Interacting with our customers
• Safe operation of our trucks
To be considered for this role you must:
• A full Class 1 or a Class 2 vehicle license
• Previous experience in a driving job is an advantage
• Be physically fit as the job requires moving and loading cylinders
• Enjoy working both on your own and in a team
• Be committed to maintaining a safe work environment
The recruitment process for this role involves a medical check which includes a drug and alcohol test.
What we offer you:
• A competitive hourly rate
• Permanent full time role, min 40 hrs per week
• Monday to Friday working week
• A great team and safe work environment
• Great benefits such as one week’s additional leave, medical insurance, a wellness grant and seasonal incentives.
Apply Now:
If you want to fill your workday with good energy, then this is the job you’ve been looking for. Send your CV to Jacqui Cummack on jacqui.cummack@clarus.co.nz before applications close on 21 Ocotber.
We're looking for a Reception SuperStar!
One of the best hostels in Queenstown is looking for a new team member to join our tight-knit family! We thrive on creating memorable experiences for both our guests and our team, and we're looking for someone that shares our passion for our region.
A successful candidate will enjoy:
• An energetic & dynamic work environment
• A full-time role with 32hrs+ per week
• A competitive starting wage / 6-monthly review
• Monthly bonus structures
• Rostering set in advance to enable free-time planning
• The opportunity to work, learn new skills and socialise within a great team
• Opportunities to experience the best tours in Queenstown
• Friends/Family discounts on accommodation
An ideal candidate for the role will have excellent communication skills, an outgoing personality, a keen eye for detail, and good computer competency. You will also need a valid work visa or residency/citizenship status.
Please email shaun@absoloot.co.nz with your CV, or please visit https://absoloot.co.nz/about-queenstown/job-opportunities/ to submit your application - we look forward to hearing from you!
STAYSOUTH IS LOOKING TO HIRE
Housekeeping Manager
We’re seeking a meticulous and proactive individual to lead and manage our team of housekeepers to deliver our high cleaning and presentation standards. This is a full-time position with an immediate start. The right applicant will need to have the following
• Experience in housekeeping and management.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Able to handle multiple tasks and work under pressure.
• Good written and spoken communication skills (in English).
• Willing and able to work weekends.
• Hold a full driver's license.
Housekeeper
We’re looking for a housekeeper/cleaner to join our team. This is a full-time position with an immediate start. The ideal candidate will have cleaning experience and a full driver's license.
Please send your resume and brief cover letter to operations@staysouth.com state the position you are applying for in the email subject line.
FRONT DESK SUPERSTAR
About the business Fine Orthodontics is a fun and friendly clinical team led by the very experienced specialist orthodontist, Dr Martin Fine. We pride ourselves on our great patient relationships and achieving fantastic smiles for our patients, using the latest in technology to deliver precision and comfort during their smile journeys.
About the role
• You are the first person our patients see and often hear when arriving to or calling the clinic, you need to be a friendly, positive and wellpresented person.
• You're in charge of scheduling patients and managing their appointment times. A good use & understanding of time management is essential in this role.
• You need to be a master communicator, both with our patients and our awesome team!
• Administration of financial contracts, payments and collections is an integral part of your role.
Benefits and perks
• Our team is fun and friendly and we are a social bunch, always keen to participate in community and charity events together.
• Lots of opportunities to learn and grow and challenge yourself.
• The clinic is in a handy location, near shops, restaurants, gyms, the bus stop and free staff car parking.
• Monday to Friday only
• Could work for a job share situation with two part time instead of one full timer.
Skills and experience
• Reception or front desk experience is an absolute must
• Interpersonal communication skills
• Sound knowledge of computer systems and software packages
• A special focus on providing the best of customer service all the time is key
• Experience managing a schedule or diary, in particular in a health care industry is a big advantage
• Attention to detail and a methodical nature are important attributes
• Friendly, welcoming disposition and a 'can do' attitude are a massive plus
