I was absolutely crushed to learn there was no such thing as a money tree from Central Government, and according to PM Christopher Luxon in a speech he made a few months ago, local councils (like QLDC) will now have to “do the basics brilliantly and not be distracted by nice to haves”.
And here I was, convinced there was a money tree, and local councils could just throw it around without a care in the world. It’s quite defl ating to learn central and local government cannot just spend spend spend and not worry if they spend it well. No money tree. Bloody hell, shock horror.
So what is a poor little local council like QLDC to do? Well, they could do as PM Luxon said, and do the basics brilliantly but then, does a leopard change its spots? With no disrespect to QLDC as they are not alone, I have never known any government organisation in New Zealand, central (yes Luxon, you too) or local, capable of doing the basics brilliantly. It’s just not possible when the layers of bureaucracy our society seems to think are compulsory get in the way. So, the default position when faced with a fi scal hole, is to put up rates, get nasty with parking enforcement, put up table and chair rental rates and kill alfresco dining, screw your constituency for all they are worth, do what it takes to raise more money, and keep doing the basics poorly. It seems the local government model has things around the wrong way. Rather than doing more with less, we are getting less for more. Double digit annual rate rises are now the norm country wide. There is a reason for this, you can decide if it’s a valid reason or not. New Zealand was designed and built on a shoestring budget with piss poor infrastructure, the resulting mess is this generation’s inheritance. Piecemeal development with Band-Aid ‘she’ll be right’ (for now) infrastructure underinvestment has caught us with our pants down when faced with the basic needs of a functioning society in 2024 and beyond.
New Zealand is a small country with a small economy, the only way we are going to get ahead is when we all work together. That requires trust, trust that when you pay your dues to the IRD, QLDC, and ORC you get a reasonable outcome. It’s a two-way street, we are funding it and we expect the job to be done brilliantly. Or at the very least effi ciently. The question is what is QLDC going to change so that this happens in our district?
Scott Stevens - Lakes Weekly Bulletin
Queenstown retailer Miles Wilson, who owns Rugby Planet on Rees St, was awarded lifetime membership of the Queenstown Business Chamber of Commerce at its AGM on Thursday. He’s made significant contributions to business life in the town, including eight years on the Chamber board. He’s pictured with Chamber board chair Angela Spackman
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Minister’s big tick for Ladies Mile
by Paul Taylor
Plans to rezone Queenstown land for 2400 new homes have been approved by the Minister for the Environment.
Penny Simmonds has signed off on the Queenstown Lakes District Council’s Ladies Mile rezoning, which means developers can start progressing plans from 6 December.
The new zone, on the flat land stretching from the Shotover Bridge to Lake Hayes, will be higher density development than other zones across Queenstown Lakes.
Developers will have to build to a minimum density of 40 units per net hectare over the zone, as Queenstown looks to tackle its unaffordable housing crisis by using land more efficiently.
That means lots of apartment blocks and townhouses, rather than the section-by-section sell-offs for homes and gardens seen at nearby Shotover Country, Lake Hayes Estate, and, most recently, Hanley’s Farm.
There’ll also be open spaces and community facilities on Ladies Mile, along with a new commercial centre, and public transport / active travel infrastructure.
Councillor Lyal Cocks, chair of the planning & strategy committee, welcomed the Minister’s approval.
“Housing continues to be one of the biggest challenges faced in the district, and Te Pūtahi Ladies Mile Variation ensures more land is available to be developed sustainably to accommodate increased density and more affordable housing options for our current and future residents,” he says.
He acknowledged the “huge endeavour” by all involved, including the public, to rezone the land.
“I’m looking forward to seeing development commence, with the necessary infrastructure being provided and traffic conditions addressed.”
Transport and traffic, particularly over the congested Shotover Bridge, was a major concern of residents during the rezoning process. During the panel hearings last November and December, 125 submitters raised over 1,003 submission points.
Council planning & development general manager David Wallace says the
zoning includes provisions to ensure development in the area is integrated with transport infrastructure.
“As and when development occurs, we’ll be looking at elements like upgraded and signalised intersections, bus lanes, and active travel links to provide public transport and safe cycling and pedestrians options to ensure future housing in the area can be effectively serviced by the infrastructure available,” Wallace says.
“The new zone will also have strong requirements for the treatment of stormwater.”
Wallace says there’s still significant work to do by both council staff and landowners in the area to ensure development meets the purpose and requirements of the zone.
Developments will need to fall within the timeframes for infrastructure upgrades identified in the council’s long term plan 2024-34, or the upgrades will need to be funded by the developers themselves.
The first major subdivision on the northern side of Ladies Mile already has the planning green light, through COVID-19 Recovery Fast-Track consenting. Glenpanel Development plan around 370 homes on the 15.6 hectares of land beneath Slope Hill, opposite Queenstown Country Club, They will include duplexes, terraces, apartments and potentially some standalone housing.
Ladies Mile rezoned
Doolans project taking shape
by Paul Taylor
Major planning work is underway for The Remarkables ski field expansion into the Doolans.
NZSki boss Paul Anderson says the project, selected for the Government’s new FastTrack process, would almost triple the size of The Remarks from 385 hectares to over 900ha.
It would also increase the ski field’s economic impact from $150 million per year to more than $400m, according to a study by Arrowtownbased economist Benje Patterson.
That would support 6000 jobs in the Queenstown Lakes economy.
“For those who haven’t seen it, the terrain over the back in the Doolans is magnificent,”
Anderson says at the NZSki annual update on Thursday.
“We’re going through a process of how we’ll get there. A couple of years ago, I stood up and said we’re going to put in a tunnel. We’ve done a lot of work on that, geo-tech designs, but we’re also looking at lifts. There are pros and cons to both.
“We’ve got to work out what is going to be best for our customers, what is going to have the least impact on the environments we operate in, and of course, what is the most financially sustainable for us.”
Anderson says the company’s Development & Operations GM Louise McQuillan has already put in an incredible amount of work to the Doolans Fast-Track application.
“We’re really proud to be on that list and we’re going to push that forward. We’ve got a massive amount of work to do to get that ready to submit to the EPA [Environmental Protection Authority] when we actually know what the process will be.”
The Doolans project is one of two the company had selected for the FastTrack process. It is also involved in the controversial Coronet Village proposal at its other Queenstown skifield, Coronet Peak, with consortium partners Bernard Cleary, Rod Drury, and Te Tapu o Tāne.
The proposal includes a gondola from Malaghans Valley floor, a summit restaurant and loop walk, a world-class mountain bike hub, a 780-home subdivision, commercial premises, schools, car parks, and a base for an iwi charity.
“There’s potential for us to look at a mountain top restaurant in the future, but the immediate priority for us would be to get that gondola with the mountain bike hub at the bottom,” Anderson says.
“I’m really excited by it. I think it will be quite magnificent. It will link to the trails with a Bike Glendhu style hub at the bottom. People who want to go
Hunting for great mental health
Mental health campaigner Glen Thurston is the guest on this week’s Outlet Podcast, talking through the barriers that stop firearms owners reaching out for help.
Wānaka builder Thurston climbed Corner Peak near Lake Hāwea 53 times in 2022, raising awareness of the number of people in the construction industry who take their lives each year.
Since then, the keen outdoorsman has founded charitable trust Mental Hunts, which advocates for mental wellness among firearms license holders. The episode explores how stigma and fear of losing their licenses prevents many from seeking help. This concern is particularly pronounced in rural and farming communities where firearms are integral to daily life and livelihood.
“Long term, I see this being a massive crisis for the country,” he tells Outlet host Bren Harbour. “We’re doing all this good stuff about breaking the stigma around men’s mental health and all this. But in the background, there’s this hidden barrier, and no one’s talking about it. No one’s doing anything about it.
“I thought it was time to step up. It’s more than just me losing my license. I’ve now got my license back, no issues, but I’m doing this for everyone else, and it needs to change.”
The episode also touches on the legislation following the Christchurch mosque shootings, the need for collaboration and lobbying of authorities such as the Ministerial Arms Advisory Group, and the healing power of nature, with Thurston explaining how hunting in the mountains is a form of meditation, supporting well-being.
down-hilling can jump on the gondola, or people who want to go crosscountry can do that too.”
A gondola could be a solution for The Remarks too, with car parking already a challenge before the Doolans expansion.
“There are a few options in the Fast-Track application. We’ve actually got another level on car park one. But there are only so many vehicles that an eight-metre wide road can cope with,” Anderson says.
“We also own the bottom 50 acres of that road, so there’s potential for carparking and shuttling from the bottom, but that would take a lot more half-a-million dollar buses. The other obvious option that has been talked about, mainly by Remarkables Park, is a gondola. They were talking about from Remarkables Park, perhaps for us it could be from the bottom of Rastus Burn.”
There’s also flat land and a paper road at the bottom of the northern end of the Remakables, he says, opposite Lake Hayes Estate.
For this summer though, the on-mountain work will be in upgrading and extending the existing $35m of snow-making facilities, including guns, pipes and the grooming team, which proved so crucial this year with the unusually timed snowfalls.
Across the season, NZSki had 190,000 ski visits across three resorts. Mt Hutt was up 10,000, while collectively The Remarkables and Coronet Peak in Queenstown were down 10,000. Aussie and domestic visits were about even in numbers, with Aussies coming when the snow fell in September and October.
If you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or out-of-sorts, here’s some numbers that can connect you 24 hours a day to people trained to help: Free call or text 1737 Lifeline 0800 543 354
If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, please call 111
The Doolans is the next valley over from The Remarks ski field. Photo: NZSki
NZSki boss Paul Anderson
Glen Thurston on Corner Peak
Monday to Friday 7:30-5:30pm Level 1, 30 Grant Road, Five Mile Shopping Centre www.curiousminds.co.nz qt-manager@curiousminds.co.nz | 03 974 4650 Find us on Facebook
CRIMELINE
Police hunt offender in violent assault
The spate of violent assaults continues with a man seriously assaulted in a Brecon Street bar at just after 6.15pm on Saturday, 16 November. Constable Amanda Shute says the victim had been shoved from behind by an unknown male, who then allegedly grabbed his head with one hand and punched him in the mouth using the other hand.
“The punch has caused injury to the victim’s mouth, dislodging two teeth,” Shute says. The suspect had left the scene prior to Police arriving and inquiries are ongoing to identify and locate him with help from CCTV footage.
Bus passenger verbally abused and threatened
Trouble also erupted on a local bus service at 2.45pm last Wednesday, 13 November, after a 39-year-old man allegedly shouted and swore at another passenger on the bus, Shute says. The man was arrested and charged with threatening behaviour. He was due to appear in the Queenstown District Court on Monday.
Jucy van rolls at bungy bridge entrance
The North American driver of a Jucy Rentals van was flown to Dunedin Hospital with moderate injuries on Saturday, 16 November, after the van rolled when the driver allegedly pulled out in front of a vehicle onto State Highway 6, Police say.
Otago Lakes Central road policing manager Senior Sergeant Steve Watt says the tourist driver allegedly failed to give way pulling out of the AJ Hackett Bungy Centre, colliding with a vehicle travelling towards Gibbston. The twovehicle collision caused the van to roll and come to rest on its roof. A St John spokesperson says they were notified of the accident at 12pm.
A helicopter, one ambulance and an operations manager attended. Another patient with minor injuries was transported to Lakes District Hospital by ambulance. Two further patients, both with minor injuries, were assessed and treated at the scene.
Moped driver skittled on Frankton Road
A moped driver also sustained moderate injuries after a vehicle pulled out of a driveway and into the opposite lane on Frankton Road at 8.10pm on Thursday, 14 November. Shute says the vehicle pulled out in front of the moped, which was travelling along Frankton Road, knocking the driver off the bike. The moped driver was taken to Lakes District Hospital for treatment, while the offending driver was issued with a written warning for careless driving.
Tricky mountain biker rescue on Skyline Hill
A young male mountain biker suffered moderate injuries after his bike slipped off 5m off a very tricky, steep and technical section of a trail at the adventure park up Skyline Hill just before 2pm on Saturday, 16 November. Rescuers couldn’t get to him in the wet slippery conditions. Fire crews and St John attended and Fire and Emergency NZ regional commander Nic McQuillan says the fire and ambulance crews eventually used a special rescue stretcher (Stokes basket) and rescue lines to retrieve him up to the path.
A St John spokesman says the man was assessed at the scene and taken to Lakes District Hospital by ambulance in a moderate condition. Wakatipu Alpine Cliff Rescue Team coordinator Russ Tilsley says they were called to assist due to the tricky terrain and put on standby, however, the fire crews were able to rescue him, and they were stood down.
Drink driving
A 24-year-old local man blew 919mcg when he was stopped by Police at 1.35am on Saturday, 16 November. His licence was suspended for 28 days, and he will appear in the Queenstown District Court on 6 December.
A 21-year-old Christchurch woman blew 772mcg when stopped by Police at 12.30am on Sunday, 17 November. She was also charged and will appear in the Queenstown District Court on 6 December.
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Lake Hāwea homicide
Police have launched a homicide investigation into the death of an Invercargill woman at a Lake Hāwea property in March.
Karen Gaylene White, 60, was found dead on Friday, 8 March. At the time, police described it as an “unexplained” sudden death.
But now, almost nine months later, they are treating her death as a homicide and are keen to speak to anyone who saw any unusual or suspicious activity in the area in late February and early March.
Detective Senior Sergeant Regan Boucher says: “We have a team of investigators working tirelessly to establish the circumstances that have led to the death, and remain committed to holding to account those responsible.
“This is an extremely traumatic time for a family who have lost a daughter, mother, grandmother, wife and friend and we wish to extend our deepest sympathies to the family at this difficult time.”
‘Homicide’ covers a range of a situations where one person causes another’s death, including manslaughter. Murder falls within that range, but is a specific type of homicide, when one person kills another deliberately or while acting recklessly, knowing that death is likely.
“I want to reassure the Otago Lakes Central community that they can continue to feel safe while the Police investigation continues,” Boucher adds. He appealed to anyone with information to contact police. Call 105 or visit 105.police.govt.nz, or call Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Use the reference number 240308/6198.
Abnormal heart rhythm likely cause of drowning
by Maddy Harker, Wānaka App
A South Korean man who drowned in Lake Wānaka in 2022 stopped swimming suddenly and sank below the surface just five metres from his friend, a coroner has found.
Coroner Andrew Schirnack said there was a strong possibility Jinwoo Park, 21, developed a sudden abnormal heart rhythm shortly before drowning.
Jinwoo was travelling around New Zealand with a friend when they visited Roys Bay for a swim on 24 November.
His friend entered the water first, swimming to a pontoon situated around 50 metres from the shoreline, before Jinwoo followed.
After stopping suddenly near the pontoon, his friend reported, Jinwoo began waving his hands to the side before he sank below the surface and did not resurface.
Jinwoo’s friend called for help and jumped in the water to assist, shortly followed by two passers-by. He was located on the lake floor by one of the passers-by but they were unable to retrieve him and the police dive squad recovered his body the following day.
The coroner said the pathologist had reported it was likely “a sudden abnormal heart rhythm” resulted in insufficient blood being pumped to the heart, “leading to him being unable to continue swimming or maintain buoyancy”.
Jinwoo was described as young, fit and healthy and he was a former Korean Navy serviceman. His friend reported he was a good swimmer who could swim 100 metres. Jinwoo had shown no signs of fear or pain when he stopped swimming, the friend said.
The coroner requested Drowning Prevention Aotearoa (DPA) provide an analysis of the death, and its report included safety recommendations such as hazard assessments for anchored swimming pontoons, water safety signage and the availability of rescue equipment.
The coroner said while he was “not detracting from the DPA’s recommendations” he did not believe Jinwoo’s death could be clearly linked to the absence of any safety gear or signage.
Karen Gaylene White. Photo: Distinct Funerals
COMMUNITY NOTES
Inspirational Women Awards 2024
By QMG
A medical cannabis pioneer, a woman leading the coalition to End Women’s Homelessness, and a dedicated humanitarian providing surgeries to orphans and widows in Iraq - they are just some of the women recognised for their achievements in the 2024 Inspirational Women Awards.
The awards will be announced at a gala dinner at The Rydges, Queenstown, on 30 November.
This is the third year of the event, which aims to raise funds and awareness about domestic violence in New Zealand while celebrating the country’s female leaders and change-makers. All funds raised will be donated to Women’s Refuge New Zealand and Central Lakes Family Services.
“Each year, we shine a light on amazing wāhine who are making a difference in New Zealand while raising awareness around domestic violence,” event organiser Julia Strelou says.
“The event is held in Queenstown to get a safe house in the region one day. With domestic violence rates rising across Australasia, now has never been a more important time for this event!”
Strelou says judging was tough, but the five judges determined 21 finalists across the national categories of Woman of the Year New Zealand, ChangeMaker of the Year New Zealand, and the Otago/Southland categories: Inspirational Woman, Entrepreneurial Woman, Community Woman, and Resilient Woman, along with 10 Highly Commended Medalists.
“So many of our finalists are humble, unsung community heroes, and that’s part of what makes celebrating them so special. I get phone calls from women crying in thanks each year. It is about empowering our wāhine and sharing their stories,” says Strelou.
Over the past two years, this event has raised over $55,000 for not-forprofit organisation Women’s Refuge New Zealand. This is the first New Zealand event to combine an awards service for inspirational women with a fundraising event against domestic violence.
“On average, 50,000 women and children are referred to Women’s Refuge annually, and staff answer 71 crisis calls daily. We want to come together to get loud about domestic violence and promote change in a sector that darkens our beautiful country,” Strelou says.
The event is sold out, but if you want to get involved, you can join the charity auction, which will open on 16 November and close the night of the event. Unique items include a Six60-signed T-shirt, a Richie McCaw jersey, and a ball autographed by the Barrett brothers.
The event at a glance:
• This is the third Inspirational Women Awards & Gala for Women’s Refuge Services
•Check out our website: www.inspirationalwomenawards.org
• This is the only fundraising event in NZ where two family violence charities come together in this manner
• 160 people turned up to support the cause last year
• The 2020 police report contended 1 in 3 New Zealand women experience domestic abuse in their life - we want to make a change.
•This event has raised over $55,000 for the cause so far.
•92% of sexual assault offences went unreported to Police In NZ
• On average, 50,000 women and children are referred to Women’s Refuge annually, and staff answer 71 crisis calls daily.
• As more than 67 per cent of family violence goes unreported, the figures do not show the full severity of the situation.
• 1 in 3 New Zealanders has experienced domestic violence, and on average every three minutes police respond to a domestic violence call
• Globally, it is estimated that around 40% of all murders of women are committed by intimate partners.
• In Australia, 35 women were killed by a current or previous intimate partner this year.
Drug testing comes to Queenstown
by Paul Taylor
No cops, no names, no judgement - just free, legal drug-testing and advice.
Aotearoa drug-checking service Know Your Stuff NZ will be at Queenstown Memorial Centre this Saturday, 30 November, offering a drug-testing clinic from noon to 4pm.
Backed by $5000 of funding from Queenstown Lakes District Council, the clinic enables people to bring in samples of their drugs to test whether it is what they think it is, and what the likely affects will be if they take it.
“We want to spread the word that we’re here to help,” KYSNZ general manager
Casey Spearin tells the Lakes Weekly.
“Our service is really important for a number of reasons. Obviously, by checking we can identify whether there are dangerous things in circulation, which can quickly become a big problem at an event.
“We’ve seen some pretty shocking things come through in the past few months. There were some samples in Wellington recently that were supposed to be MDMA but were actually mercury chloride, which is incredibly toxic. If that happens, we have the systems and networks to put out alerts. Last December just before New Year’s at a clinic in Christchurch, we detected Alpha-D2PV, which is quite a dangerous synthetic drug, so we were able to warn people.”
Spearin says about two-thirds of what KYSNZ tests is MDMA, but they also test a lot of cocaine, LSD and other drugs.
“We find between 10-15% of what we test is not what it’s supposed to be. It can be a huge range of things instead - sometimes it’s baking powder and it’s harmless, and sometimes it’s very harmful things, such as nitazenes, which are another class of synthetic opioid that’s even more potent than fentanyl.”
The clinics also provide a opportunity for people to have an honest and confidential chat with someone about their drug use and behaviours.
“People tell us they won’t talk to their family doctor about drug use but after we’ve run their sample through the spectrometer and explained the results, they can be more open to talk to us.”
And there’s no chance of cops waiting outside. Drug testing clinics and
attendees are protected by legislation, and police can’t use attendance as evidence against them, or as a reason to search someone.
“We always recommend people bring only a very small sample, just enough to be tested. But in general the police are very supportive or what we do.”
Spearin says Queenstown Lakes, which has some of the highest cocaine and party-drug use in the country, is a priority for KYSNZ and they will be back in Queenstown and Wānaka for more testing clinics just before New Year’s. They hope to obtain more funding to become established in the region.
KnowYourStuffNZ’s service includes:
• providing factual information about drugs and drug use in general, signs of excessive or dependent use to look out for, and information about where to get help for drug related problems
• testing substances using reagents and infra-red spectroscopy to discern the content of a sample
• providing accurate information about specific substances detected within a sample, including active and toxic dose, expected duration, reasons to not take a substance, what to expect psychologically, how to have a safer experience, and symptoms to look out for that signal danger
R&A: Who’s on which day?
Organiser of the South Island’s biggest New Year’s music festival Rhythm & Alps have announced the daily lineups.
Around 10,000 people are expected to descend on the Cardrona Valley, between Queenstown and Wānaka for two jam-packed days of music on 30 and 31 December.
Lime Cordiale and Shapeshifter are the headline acts on New Year’s Eve itself, along with Aroha, Big Twisty (DJ set), Cassie Henderson, Clipz, Communicate, Elemeno P, Human Movement, Kadyn Webster, Mincy, Montell2099, Sanoi, Sin & Brook, and Wax Mustang.
On 30 December, Becky Hill and Andy C headline, with Anaïs, Badger, Bag Raiders, Charlotte Plank, Sir Dave Dobbyn, Grafix, Issey Cross, Juicy Romance, Oppidan, Rova, The Butlers, X Club, Buttermilk, Hutch, Knox, Lucy, Matty The Friend, Mrs K, Phrae, Pons, The Beatniks also playing.
The full timetable will be released in December, along with the site map, which includes two new stages this year.
Only a handful of single general admission New Year’s Eve tickets are left, priced $240, while there are also 30 December passes for $200, and final release GA two-day passes for $340, with two-day camping an additional $70. Visit rhythmandalps.co.nz
QUEENSTOWN DHARMA CENTRE, 12 LAKE ST TUE (26 Nov) @ 6.30pm, Discovering BuddhaDharma with Grant Rix SUN (1 Dec) @ 2.30pm, Shantideva’s ‘The Way of Life of a Bodhisattva’ with Amnyi Trulchung Rinpoche All are welcome.
Donations for the teachers gratefully accepted. See www.dharmacentre.org.nz or FB
Casey Spearin
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functions Christmas
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QLDC Libraries
Librarian Profile
Amy Jane O’Reilly
Kia ora. I’m originally from Ireland, but for the past six years I have resided in Aotearoa, New Zealand. My partner and I recently received permanent residency and I’m beyond grateful for the privilege to call this incredible country my forever home.
Over the past four years, I’ve been Adult Services Librarian at Queenstown Library. Few people can say they have the best job in the world, but during my time here, I’ve been one of them. As I prepare to move on to my next chapter, I’ve been taking time to reflect and celebrate just how impactful this experience has been for me.
Through promoting literacy and lifelong learning, fostering community cohesion, and advocating for those underprivileged/marginalised, my life has been enriched in ways I never could have imagined. It has taught me the profound power of community, and I’m so thankful for everyone I’ve had the chance to meet and collaborate with. Shoutout to our regulars! To my day ones, the Queenstown Library Book Club and the Queenstown Creative Writing Group, and to the Queenstown Quilters (especially Catherine Robb) who supported my first project, creating a community quilt amidst the uncertainty of Covid – the quilt is now proudly displayed in the Queenstown Library. I’ve worked with acclaimed authors, mountaineers, and award-winning scientists, and collaborated with the Otago Museum and the Department of Corrections. Launching our loanable Telescope Kits and Birdwatching Kits was memorable, and I’m excited about our new Zine Project. I’’m also studying for a Master’s in Information Studies, and last year I attended the LIANZA conference in Ōtautahi, an event for library and information professionals to connect, share knowledge, and explore emerging trends in the field.
AN ICONIC
CHRISTMAS PARTY VENUE
Next month, I’m packing up my bike bag and heading towards Europe via the US to see my mum. I’m over the moon to be spending my first Christmas in seven years at home with my dad and sister. In January, I’ll be supporting Queenstown local Bethany Rogers at the World Ice Swimming Championships in Italy, before making my way to Spain, to learn Spanish and teach English. In the summer, I plan to cycle the Wild Atlantic Way along the coast of Ireland, before heading to Scandinavia. After that, I haven’t figured it out yet, but I will be back, eventually. Amidst the gallivanting, I’ll also be researching for my university studies, exploring the thread that runs between libraries, communities, and permaculture.
Before I head off, I’d like to say a heartfelt thank you. To my team, to the library, to our patrons, and to our vibrant community, for making this such a special time in my life. As a parting note, I’ll leave you with three of my favorite non-fiction reading highlights from the past four years.
the
features interviews with diverse artists exploring the deep connections between art, nature, and culture.
From beers & snacks with the team to a fully exclusive event, we can design a Christmas function for groups of all sizes & budgets. We also have onsite accommodation for up to 48 guests if you’re keen to make night of it. Contact us on 03 443 8153 to secure your date.
Milkwood Permaculture Living Handbook: Habits for Hope in a Changing World by Kirsten
offers practical advice on how to live sustainably, build resilience, and create positive change through permaculture practices in a rapidly changing world.
Tales from a Financial Hot Mess by Frances Cook shares the author’s journey from financial chaos to stability, offering honest, relatable, and practical advice on managing money and building financial confidence.
Wild Kinship
Makers by Monique Hemmingson
Bradley
Arts+Culture
French chamber musicians on a cultural marathon around New Zealand
by Jessica Allen
Not to be outshone by the Olympic sports stars, a group of Parisian musicians are embarking on a marathon tour around Aotearoa – performing 14 concerts in 18 days. The delightful classical programme from the early 19th Century features the Beethoven Septet, and the Schubert Octet, which are rarely presented together.
Jetting around the country via a private DC3 – a 1942 masterpiece of aviation engineering – they’re stopping by smaller townships in the South Island including Westport and Te Anau in addition to Christchurch, Dunedin and here – Queenstown. The musicians play instruments that almost make a mini orchestra including violin, viola, cello, double bass, horn, bassoon and clarinet. They’ve chosen to play in some of the countries most beautiful churches to add to the atmosphere.
Mark Oremland is the Kiwi in the group who made this all happen. He set off for Europe and lived in Paris for 30 years after studying viola with David Menzies and Mary O’Brien in Auckland.
“I love chamber music, and with a certain number of people, not all of them in the same group, but nine years ago we did these two pieces in Paris, which went down very well,” Oremland says. “I thought how neat it would be to go around New Zealand playing some lovely different churches around here, and they get to see New Zealand as well. It’s sort of a triple threat – there’s the standard tour of New Zealand, there’s the music side of it, and we’re travelling around in a beautiful old 1942 DC3.”
Oremland purchased the plane and brought it to New Zealand on a 23day trip, following Jean Batten’s route – she made the first solo flight from England to New Zealand in 1936. It will transport the musicians around, who
include Antoine Degremont on horn, Cyril Garac on violin, Bernard Lanaspèze on double bass, Saori Kurimoto on clarinet, Vincent Reynaud on bassoon, Myriam Tellagorry on cello and Agnès Reverdy on violin. While the group aren’t officially an orchestra, they’re pretty close to it.
“The classical music, it’s sort of early 1800s and it’s easy to listen to. It’s not very discordant in any way, and it’s not too violent, so it’s very accessible. Almost everybody is represented in the music – there’s seven parts in the Septet and eight parts in the Octet – it’s a way that people can get to an almost orchestral concert. It’s what we call chamber music – it’s very happy music and I think it’s something that is suitable not only for those people who go to all those chamber music concerts, it’s something for everybody.”
The Paris Chamber Players Tour will be at St Peter's Church on Thursday, 28 November, from 8pm. Find out more info and grab your tickets to see one of France’s leading chamber ensembles at eventfinda.co.nz/2024/parischamber-players/queenstown
Merry and bright - Yule Cat’s Christmas journey
by Jessica Allen
This year’s Christmas show production will follow the magical journey around the globe of the Yule Cat, and siblings Holly and Robin. With just a week and a bit to go until The World of Christmas, it will feature a spectacular display of the region’s talent and entertainment groups, thanks to Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC).
The family-friendly show will explore Christmas traditions of different countries and cultures, discovering the joy, wonder and diversity that makes the holiday season so special. The show will feature performances from local groups including Queenstown Gymnastics Club, Silk and Circus, Wakatipu Conservatoire of Classical Ballet, The Remarkables Men’s Ballet and The 100 Voices Choir.
Sofia Taquet is the musical director of this year’s show and has been involved in the production for many years. First starting out in 2013 as a performer in school, she’s worn many hats before developing into her position for this year. In 2023 she was also the musical director as well as the choir leader. She describes the music in the show as really fun, as well as challenging.
“It’s pretty full circle getting to this point – from being on stage back in 2013 to now musical directing the show, it’s such a privileged. I really enjoy the process of both being on stage and behind the scenes equally,” Taquet says. “Being on stage and actually teaching, and being behind the scenes is important to me going forward, if I want to pursue this as a career. So that I know the ins and outs behind the scenes, but also what it takes to be a performer.”
Taquet’s favourite thing about the show is how it brings people of all generations and backgrounds together – the sense of community that is built is why she’s so passionate about getting involved each year. She is very thankful of the supportive cast and crew, all of which have been working so hard behind the scenes to bring this all together.
“This year especially is so rewarding because I’m working alongside such talented women creatively, like Tiffany Bindon and Anna Stuart. I’m just so fortunate to be working alongside them, because I’ve been directed by both of them before – so it’s just such a beautiful transition. Seeing everyone’s hard work come to life is so awesome and I’m feeling so proud of what we’ve created so far.”
Discover what people around the world do to celebrate Christmas and join the Yule Cat on his adventures. Queenstown’s annual Christmas show will be on 8 December at the Events Centre, with shows at 1pm and 5pm. Tickets and more information can be found at events.humanitix.com/christmasshow-2024
Enhancing relationships with nature
by Jessica Allen
Sound artist Sika will make his way to Queenstown and Wānaka in the first week of December. His musical performance aims to enhance our spiritual relationship with nature and gives a voice to wood, skin, bone, stone and shell, reflecting a lifetime of listening to the rhythms of nature.
A variety of instruments make up his repertoire including drums, native flutes and voice, with the didgeridoo forming an important foundation of his music. He also includes sounds that he’s recorded in nature and describes the experience as similar to a sound track to a movie with an earthy, ancient feel to it.
“Most people will bring something to lie on, like a yoga mat, a pillow and maybe a blanket if they need it. I’m a solo performer, so I’ll be playing the instruments,” Sika says. “I’ll be playing sounds and somewhat sort of music, but it’s sound based. The idea is that we go on a kind of inner journey – like an inner meditation. The sounds that I’m playing are from didgeridoos, drums, flutes, and then there’s quite a lot of instruments that are Māori originated, and also some sounds that I make using stones, rocks, wood, bones and shell.”
Originally from England, Sika learned to play didgeridoo 30 years ago – on a trip to America. He was playing at a ceremony and people wanted to hear more of it. As a relatively quiet person, spending lots of time in nature, performing didn’t come naturally to him, but now he really enjoys it. He’s recorded many works with artists throughout the world and has made countless appearances on albums.
The journey will include two 50-minute halves with an intermission between. It starts with a talk for a few minutes, creating a landscape to take people to a place where he will then let them journey with the sound. For Sika, it’s all about each person experiencing it in their own way – he doesn’t want to tell people what they should or will expect.
“It’s deeply mesmerising and relaxing, and it’s quite transportive, really. It takes you to another world. People that come for the first time, that don’t know anything about what I do, come away feeling ‘like that was an incredible experience and I would definitely do it again.’ It’s an opportunity to really go within and look within.”
Sika will bring his sound journey to Lake Wānaka Centre on Tuesday, 3 December, and to Queenstown Memorial Centre on Thursday, 5 December. You can find out more information about Sika and the upcoming shows by heading to sikamusic.com
HOSPOGUIDE
26 NOVEMBER- 2 DECEMBER
$15 Pasta Special
with Brett Walker 6pm $15 Rump Steak
Bottomless | FRANK’S
|
Brunch with Stevie Tom | 1 Dec
| $20 Entry $12 Margaritas, $25 Pizza and Beer
$12 Espresso Martinis All day and night
Live $12 Dark ‘N’ Stormys
$15 Fish & Chips
Huge Singles Pool Comp 8pm Start $10 Entry + House Drink
Tuesday Free to Watch Live Ice Hockey Morrison’s 3HL 6.30-9pm
Famous $15 all day Breakfast from 10am till 9pm daily.
Everyday CHRISTMAS FUNCTIONS, free hire
Tuesday Trick Tips
Tuesday (6.30-7.30pm)
Wednesday Get our 3 for $45 Combo! Ice Skating, Ice Bumper Cars & Frisbee Golf!
Thursday All-day Ice Skating from 12pm-6pm with unlimited re-entry
Friday Stick & Puck Session for Hockey Players from 6.15-7.30pm
Saturday OPEN DECK from 2pm-8pm upstairs at the Garden Bar!
Monday $15 Nacho
Everyday Locals Loyalty Rewards
Tuesday $19 Burger & fries deal
WednesdaySaturday Food Truck, TACOS JAGUAR
Wednesday Adult Coaching Night Progress your skills (6.30-7.30pm)
QTN’S best prices guaranteed OPEN 7 days 2pm-late
Tuesday TACO TACO HALF PRICE TACOS UNTIL 9pm
Wednesday $20 Pint & Poutine
Sunday Free to Watch Ice Hockey, Sunday Social League from 5.15pm!
Monday Closed for Public Sessions See you Wednesday!
Thursday $20 Chicken Parmy & fries $6 Beer handles 7 days a week
Thursday QUIZ NIGHT Harry Potter, 7pm Friday OPEN MIC 6.30-9.30pm, Every Friday, Elle & Alex Music
Thursday Social Night
$25 for 2 hours (6.30-8.30pm)
Friday Skate Night
$10 for 2 hours Mini Ramp Access (6.30-8.30pm)
Happy hour
3-7pm every day
Cocktails $12 | Tap Beer $7 House spirits $7 | J-Bombs $6
Saturday BARKS & BREWS Border Collies, 2-5pm
Sunday 2-for-1 Jump Night
Bring your mate for free (6.30-7.30pm)
BREWDAY $5 OFF SELECTED JUGS 12pm - 5pm
Saturday COMEDY NIGHT A Very BEER-Y Christmas, tickets on Trybooking
Monday Launch Ramp Night No experience needed (6.30-7.30pm)
All Day Dining From 12pm - Late Happy Hour From 4pm - 6pm Complimentary Valet Parking For dining guests
Thursday Beats & Baos $8 Baos 5pm to Late Friday-Sunday WORLDSTOCK
3 Day Mini Festival - Hippie Theme - Free Entry! Sunday JESSB Tickets Online Selling Fast Mon-Sun Coffee Happy Hour 50% off Coffees - 8-9am (BYO Cup)
GOINGS ON ABOUT
EVENTS - MUSIC - ART THEATRE - AT THE
GALLERIES
Paris Chamber Players Tour
MUSIC
A group of eight Parisian musicians are embarking on a marathon tour around New Zealand. Their delightfully classical programme from the early 19th century will feature the Beethoven Septet (7 players) and the Schubert Octet, (8 players) rarely presented together, and featuring instruments that almost make a mini orchestra, with violin, viola, cello, double bass, horn, bassoon and clarinet. The group are one of France’s leading chamber ensembles and will be will be travelling around the country in style on a private DC3 – a 1942 masterpiece of aviation engineering.
When: Thursday, 28 November, 8pm – 10pm Where: St Peters Church, 2 Church Street, Queenstown
JessB ‘Feels Like Home’ Album Tour
Aotearoa’s JessB is bringing her authorative live show to town, debuting her new album. She’ll be tapping into not only the intimate and personal essence of the physical definition of ‘home’, but also the mental and emotional embodiment of the refuge and sanctuary that is finding herself as a person.
KnowWhat’s In Your Stuff? – Free Drug Checking Clinic
Hi Queenstown! KnowYourStuffNZ is hosting a free, 100% legal, discreet, and judgment-free drugchecking clinic. Find out exactly what’s in your gear, ask questions, and get expert harm-reduction advice— no cops, no names, just information. Come by and make safer, informed choices.
When: Saturday, 30 November, noon-4pm
Where: Queenstown Memorial Centre, 1 Memorial Street
Cromwell Christmas at the Races
A fantastic day of racing and entertainment as the summer season settles in. The Cromwell Races are embedded in the Central Otago event calendar with many of the hospitality tents at the edge of the track hosting business Christmas functions. Those in attendance dress to impress and there will be DJs, live musicians, a bar, food vendors and TAB facilities.
When: Sunday, 1 December, from 11am
Where: Cromwell Racecourse
More events available at WHAT’S ON on the Queenstown App
Download the Queenstown App today
Inspirational Women Awards & Gala
The Inspirational Women Awards is an awards ceremony and gala celebrating the female leaders and change-makers of New Zealand while raising awareness of domestic violence. The awards are all about empowering and celebrating our wāhine whilst raising awareness around family violence in New Zealand. All funds raised through this event go to the family violence charities of New Zealand.
When: Sunday, 30 November, 6.30pm – 11pm
Where: The Rydges Lakeland Resort
Wakatipu Croquet Club Beginners Lessons
Summer is a fabulous time to learn to play croquet. The croquet club are offering free beginners lessons for four weeks, welcoming new members both social and competitive. Lessons will be held each Thursday and Saturday – they invite you to come to each session or just pop in and have a go. The club is situated in Jardine Park, a stunning environment with great parking. Please register, or if you have any questions contact Diana McIlwrick at Dianamcilwrick1@gmail.com or 027 457 4806.
When: Thursdays and Saturdays until 7 December, 10am – midday
Where: The Croquet Club in Jardine Park
Santa’s Grotto at Minus 5º Ice
Bar
Bring the whole family to Minus 5º Ice Bar for this very special opportunity to visit Santa in his ‘natural frozen environment’, just like the North Pole where he and his reindeers live. For a donation of $10 per family, watch your kids light up at the sight of Santa. They’ll get the opportunity to visit with Father Christmas for a chat, receive a little gift and pose for a photo! Face painting for a gold coin donation - 100% of proceeds going to Wakatipu Plunket.
When: Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 December, from 10am – 2pm
Where: Minus 5º Ice Bar Queenstown, Steamer Wharf
Pages and Purrs
Did you know that cats have a natural ability to sense how we feel and then help us to feel calm and happy? Join the QT Community Cats team at Frankton Library for an afternoon of reading and cuddling with their rescued cats and kittens. Whether you’re looking to improve your reading skills, gain confidence reading aloud, or simply enjoy the calming presence of their furry feline friends, this is the purr-fect opportunity! Please contact Frankton Library to book.
Santa’s in the mood for some belly laughs and craft beers at a brewery near you! Join everybody’s favourite Ho Ho Host Harriet Moir for a night of banter, beer and some brilliant and banging comedy. This fizzingly festive and fecking funny lineup includes some of the South Island’s hottest comedy talent including local favourites - Maggie Rogers and Jadwiga along with Tama Alexander and Tim Kelly (Christchurch) and award-winning comedian Jonathan Falconer in the headline spot. This night promises to absolutely sleigh so dig out your Chrissy jumpers, get the crew together and book yourselves a cracker and definitely not silent night.
When: Saturday, 30 November, 6.30pm – 10pm
Where: Searchlight Brewery, 12 Industrial Place
If you would like your show, event, exhibition or meeting promoted in Goings On drop us a line at info@qmg.co.nz with the details
LAKES BUSINESS
SOUTHERN LAKES BUSINESS QUARTERLY
Bringing the style - Hub Design Interiors’ Carmen Hubber, pictured with her daughters
LAKES
At home in the forest
by Paul Taylor
Hidden away in tranquil beech forest near Mt Creighton are two rural retreats that recently scooped national architecture awards.
Queenstown’s Carolin Friese, of Carolin Friese Architecture, took home three awards for Tall Tree House and e Cove, at the 2024 ADNZ Resene Architectural Design Award last month. Tall Tree House won a National Award for New Home up to 150sqm and also the lauded National ADNZ Resene Kaitiakitanga Award, something Friese is particularly proud of. e Cove, a standalone hideaway on the same property, took home the National Award for Home Interiors.
“ e Cove is an exploration of super e cient planning and small scale living,” Friese says. “ e clients wanted to gure out how small you could live without compromising on comfort, quality or atmosphere.
“It’s a very unique place, a little gem in the forest. e design came from the idea of having a cigar room, behind this velvet green curtain, with double doors reclaimed from an old pub in Christchurch, and high ceilings so it feels comfortable but still spacious.”
While e Cove explores size, and looks like one of the best places in Queenstown to sit back and read a good book, the 130sqm Tall Tree House puts sustainability to the fore.
“It was designed to last generations, utilising the best building practice, and with thermal e ciency at its heart. Performance was a major factor,” she says.
“For me, performance doesn’t compromise aesthetics. And the function of a house should be an enclosure; a comfortable, dry and warm space for the inhabitants.
“ e design was inspired by moody European alpine cabins, which ties in with the native beech forest it sits in. When you walk through the house you get completely di erent glimpses of the forest and the mountains, and it frames the view rather than exposing you to it.”
Is it di cult to let go of a project once it’s completed?
“I feel passionate about all of my projects and create a deep connection with my clients. However, my general vision is to make sure that we are creating sustainable buildings which will be enjoyed by the clients and future generations alike. I take pride in creating spaces that allow pople to thrive and relax.”
An architect and certi ed passive house designer, Friese has been working in the Queenstown Lakes region for 12 years, creating beautiful, sustainable and energy e cient homes. She’s the founder of Bob’s Cove Punatapu Community Trust, and is passionate about conservation.
She says the awards mark a “very big milestone and achievement” for her. “Especially the Kaitiakitanga Award, which celebrates sustainable design to protect the future of New Zealand.”
Judges said Tall Tree House, designed with passive principles in mind, “embodies a harmonious blend of simplicity and sophistication” ensuring both functionality and tranquillity.
“Its well-resolved, simple form seamlessly integrates timber and metal claddings, creating a timeless aesthetic that respects its natural surroundings. Inside, the voluminous interior captivates with its moody colours and nishes, while strategically positioned windows frame picturesque views, inviting the beauty of the outdoors inside.”
e Cove, meanwhile, has a “serene atmospheric interior environment” and “exempli es super-e cient planning and small-scale living”.
“It integrates judicious use of materials combining modesty with meticulous attention to detail throughout the design. A centrally located double-height living area creates a tall, elegant volume despite the compact footprint. Every square metre is optimised for function without compromising its visual qualities and atmosphere.”
For more info visit www.cf-architecture.co.nz
The Cove interior - Photo: Gabriel Adda
Tall Tree House - Photo: Gabriel Adda
Trufill® High Performance Insulation for Queenstown’s New Build Homes
With recent population growth in the Queenstown area, the building industry has been busy developing new homes and apartments to cater to this demand. Given the extreme temperature uctuations in the region over summer and winter, it is important that new homes are well insulated and thermally e cient. at is why Absolute Energy is proud to introduce a new high-performance insulation solution to the industry, which is perfect for Queenstown homesTru ll® blown insulation.
Tru ll® blown insulation has been developed by Safe-R Insulation, speci cally to meet the increased H1 insulation standards recently introduced in the New Zealand Building Code. Tru ll® makes achieving these new requirements simple, as it can be used to insulate all areas of a home, including ceilings, walls, and oors. e comprehensive coverage it provides
ensures that your new home will be both comfortable and cost-e ective when it comes to energy use. Unlike traditional insulation, Tru ll® is a blown insulation product that can be installed at variable densities and completely lls a wall, oor, or ceiling cavity. Unlike other insulation products, Tru ll® leaves no gaps or voids once installed, ensuring high R-values and superior thermal performance. Tru ll® helps create a complete thermal barrier around a house between inside and outside air, helping to maintain stable indoor temperatures. is helps to reduce the reliance on heating and cooling systems and in turn lowers your homes energy usage.
Absolute Energy has been installing insulation in South Island homes for more than 20 years. Over this time we’ve insulated over 25,000 homes and impacted the lives of more than 75,000 people. We
MEET THE FAMILY LAW TEAM
Providing specialist advice on family matters: -Relationship Property, -Contracting Out/Prenuptial Agreements, -Separation, -Family Violence, -Protection Orders, -Care of Children, -Guardianship, -Dissolution of Marriage, -Oranga Tamariki Proceedings -PPPR Act Proceedings
have a local Queenstown o ce and installation team and a deep understanding of local conditions and the region’s speci c insulation needs. By choosing Tru ll®, you’re not only getting a product designed for high performance, but also the expertise and support of Absolute Energy’s wider team.
Whether you’re in the process of planning your dream home or looking to bring your current project up to standard, Absolute Energy is here to help. We work with homeowners, architects, and builders alike, providing all necessary documentation and insulation calculations as part of the consenting process. Get in touch with Absolute Energy today to learn more about how Tru ll® can provide your new build with the highest level of insulation and thermal performance. Visit our website www.absoluteenergy.co.nz or call us on 0800 423 454.
louise.denton@toddandwalker.com
Hub Design Interiors - generational designs
Interiors are in the blood for Hub Design Interiors’ Carmen Hubber, her Queenstown interior design company now boasting multiple New Zealand and Australasian awards, some of the region’s most luxurious, high-end homes among them.
Founded in 2003, the company has become a leading name in Queenstown’s interior design scene, earning several notable accolades during the past 10 years. ese include the Southern Region Best Kitchen Award and the coveted People’s Choice Award at the National Kitchen and Bathroom Association (NKBA) Awards in 2024.
As founder and director Carmen, the company’s visionary leader, brings more than 30 years’ experience to every room. Her expertise was rst recognised with the Emerging Designer Award in 2014, an honour later awarded to her daughter, Ruby, at the 2023 APT Design Awards, marking yet another signi cant generational milestone for the Hubber family.
Hub Design’s commitment to quality cra smanship and passion for design is deeply rooted in Carmen’s family’s legacy. Sixty- ve years ago, her father David Hubber and uncle Lloyd Hubber started their ooring business in Gore, laying carpet and vinyl. “ at led to Lloyd opening Hubber’s Furnishings in Christchurch, where I began my own journey in interior design, aged 22,” Carmen says. She started out consulting on carpet and curtains in Christchurch working her way ‘from the ground up’.
by Sue Fea
Carmen still takes pride in the family business, valuing the personal connection it fosters with clients. “I prefer being a face and name behind the business rather than hiding behind a faceless corporation,” she says. Personal touch de nes her business.
With decades of experience locally Carmen now has her own trusted team of skilled sub-contractors and years of working with wholesalers and importers means she can secure competitive prices. “I’ve developed a deep understanding of trades and construction through the years which ensures high standards of cra smanship and a strong focus on natural materials,” she says. “I’m passionate about creating spaces that are beautiful and functional.” Each project is cra ed to support daily life while re ecting the client’s style.
Carmen loves strong colours drawn from nature. Her company designs its own unique, custom-made furniture using a variety of natural products. “We create artistry through design using beautiful fabrics and textures,” she says. “We’re seeing in uences from the 1950s to 1970s in colours, textures and patterns at present. Golds are becoming so er, more champagne than brassy, and we’re seeing a lot of chocolate coming through with the bronze and copper.”
She also works with clients wanting to furnish standout Airbnbs and spec houses, o ering specialty cost e ective interior and furniture packages.
“Together, we bring each client’s vision to life and prove that exceptional design is possible at any scale.”
Hub Design won two NZ Kitchen Bathroom Design Association awards for this work for the Hills at Arrowtown - Best Kitchen Southern Region and People’s Choice
Building Dreams in Central Otago: The Signature Homes Approach
Central Otago has become an increasingly popular place for those looking to build their dream homes. At the heart of this growth is a local team that’s passionate about homes and genuinely cares about the people they build them for: Chris and Renee, the owners of Signature Homes Central Otago.
From the moment you meet them, it’s clear that Chris and Renee and their team are a unique combination of humble and experienced, with a deep understanding of both the building process and the needs of their clients. Chris, a seasoned builder, has a long history of quality builds under his tool belt. “I’m a builder by trade, and at one point, I was managing over twenty builds at once,” he says with a wry smile, rubbing his hands — the hands of a man who’s put in his time in the eld. “But a builder’s body can only take so much,” he laughs.
Yet, despite the tough physical demands of the trade, Chris and Renee have found a way to create a lasting, e ective partnership embarking on their next adventure with Signature Homes. Together, they’ve built a reputation for providing quality, personalised service to every client they work with.
Over the last couple of years, the Signature Homes Central Otago team has successfully handed over many homes, with client feedback consistently re ecting the dedication and care the team puts into each project.
A Team Approach
At Signature Homes Central Otago, it’s not just about Chris and Renee — it’s about the entire team. “We’ve built a strong team that has experience and genuinely enjoys what they do,” says Renee. “Each day, we come to the o ce ready to help make our clients’ visions for their homes a reality.” is is what sets them apart: the genuine enthusiasm and passion for building runs through the entire Signature Homes team. e team approach is essential, especially when creating homes that meet the unique needs of clients in Central Otago, where the landscape, climate, and
lifestyle preferences vary signi cantly. Chris and Renee have worked hard to build a team of professionals who are not only skilled but also aligned with their philosophy of collaboration, transparency, and high standards.
e Right Plan for Every Lifestyle
One of the standout features of Signature Homes Central Otago is the variety of home plans, each designed to suit di erent lifestyles and environments. Whether you’re planning to build in a rural area or closer to Queenstown’s excitement, Signature Homes o ers versatile designs that blend seamlessly with the region’s stunning landscapes.
Take e Meadows, for example — a home plan ideal for those who dream of warm summer evenings spent outdoors, a glass of Central Otago Pinot Noir in hand, while taking in breathtaking mountain views. is plan is designed to create a space that balances indoor comfort with outdoor living, perfect for relaxation and entertaining alike.
For those looking to retire or downsize, e Matakana o ers a design focused on easy living without sacri cing comfort. It’s the perfect sanctuary for those who have fallen in love with Central Otago and are looking for a home that complements their next chapter.
ese homes are more than just structures; they are thoughtfully cra ed to meet their owners’ speci c needs and aspirations.
Real-Time Pricing for Peace of Mind
Another key feature that sets Signature Homes apart is the advanced technology they use to provide accurate, real-time pricing. Chris explains, “Everyone is busy these days, constantly moving from one task to another. Providing fast pricing helps alleviate uncertainties immediately.” eir cutting-edge pricing tool allows clients to see updated costs in real time as adjustments are made, ensuring transparency and peace of mind throughout the build process.
is level of service and innovation is part of the reason so many people are choosing Signature Homes Central Otago to build their dream homes. With a focus on delivering value, quality, and e ciency, the team ensures that each project is completed not only to the highest standard but also within the client’s budget and timeline.
A Commitment to Quality
If you’re considering building in New Zealand’s adventure capital, Signature Homes Central Otago is the ideal team to bring your vision to life. Whether you’re planning a cosy getaway or a sprawling family home, Chris, Renee, and their expert team will work with you to design and build a space that suits your needs and celebrates the beauty of the region. For a home that’s built with heart, look no further than Signature Homes Central Otago.
Signature Homes Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago
Bursts then bumps for local building industry
by Jessica Allen
ere’s a whopping $12 billion in the construction pipeline for Queenstown Lakes, according to the latest gures from Pacifecon. at comprises 508 projects across all sectors, with residential builds making up 21% of that number, and 18% of the value.
Pacifecon are a New Zealand business that have been reporting on our construction industry for over 40 years. While overall, we’re seeing costs stabilising across the industry, researcher Carolyn Rennie says that Central Otago can be slightly di erent to the rest of the country as there’s more diversity in the location of developers working here.
“Wānaka and Queenstown at the moment are both strong in standalone houses and apartments – at building and resource consent level – at that new stage,” Rennie says. “ e work at the moment seems to come in bursts, and then it dies o again, so it’s unpredictable. ere is a sense that when these bursts of work comes in, it’s old projects, rather than new construction projects – maybe they’ve had it on the back burner for quite some time.”
In the past 12 months, 899 projects commenced construction at a value of $2 billion. Residential made up $1,184,512,914 of this number. Singling out Wānaka – there’s currently 188 projects to the value of $2,461 million in the pipeline, with no apartments on the cards.
Philip Dawes is the research manager at Pacifecon. He’s responsible for managing and leading the nationwide research and edit team to ensure all information put out is accurate and of high quality. He’s across what’s happening in the residential sector across the country and oversees each report with a keen interest in the Market Watch.
“By the end of August, New Zealand had 6,566 residential projects in early planning stages, which represents the intention of residential activity, valued at $103 billion,” Dawes says. “As expected, the number of these intended projects has slightly decreased when compared to 2023 due to caution in the residential sector, however, these gures remain higher than those before 2021 and beyond.”
Some trends we’re seeing in the residential sector speci cally includes an increase in the number of town houses and apartments popping up around the country. Of the 107 residential projects in our local pipeline, it is interesting to note that 18 are apartment buildings at a value of $515 million – something not as common for our region, but growing in popularity. Some projects to highlight in the region include two large healthcare projects in Wānaka – the Wānaka Health Hub and the ROA Healthcare Precinct. ere’s also the Mount Iron Junction mixed-use development that has been selected for fast-track resource consent, and resource consent has been granted for MetLife Wānaka Retirement Village. Nine
projects in Queenstown have been selected for the Government’s new fast-track development pathway including Silver Creek, a 1050-lot subdivision above Frankton Road and e Hills Resort Development, an 18-hole championship golf course and resort. Civil works have commenced on a number of subdivisions. “Work is starting to ow better,” Rennie says. “ ere seems to be a sense of not wanting to be mired in a council queue for consenting, to not slow down expedition of a possible shovel ready project. In terms of build costs, some things are slightly less expensive, but the biggest thing that impacts pricing is if the bigger builders are busy or not. e ow-on e ect of this means a project will be tendered, which provides competitive pricing.”
Taking a look at Cromwell, things appear to be pretty steady over that way. e Wooing Tree mixed-use development will see 380 houses being built, with a commercial element to it, too. Rennie is also seeing a steady stream of building consents owing through for the standalone houses – they’re now up to stage three of the project.
“ e cellar door has been completed, and the childcare centre completion is expected in 2025, so now that seems to be popping along. In terms of building consents in the Central Otago area as a whole, I would say there’s slightly fewer than previous years, but there’s still a lot in terms of stand-alone housing and apartments.”
It seems to be the consensus that the ‘bump’ in our construction industry is in part thanks to developers that are based overseas. Where a local developer can make quick and informed decisions, a developer in Australia or Singapore may have a very di erent decision-making process – perhaps they adopt a world-economy view rather than a local-economic one.
e fast-track scheme could help to push along some of the bursts of work, and allow a more steady pipeline for Queenstown. More residential housing that isn’t snapped up by holiday-home investors would certainly be welcome.
If you’d like to read more of Pacifecon’s reporting on the industry as a whole, you can head to pacifecon.co.nz
Refresh Renovations® is here to help
Tempting as it is to roll your sleeves up and take a sledge hammer to those old bathroom tiles, if you don’t have a detailed plan, some serious skills and a lot of free time, your DIY bathroom renovation could well end up with you crying in front of a wonky new mirror.
Even nding, hiring and wrangling decent independent tradies during Queenstown’s construction boom can be a headache, with no guarantee you’ll be able to communicate your vision for your single-room or complete home renovation, or that they’ll be able to deliver a quality nish within budget.
Refresh Renovations® in Queenstown-Lakes and Central Otago is here to help.
“We’re really about investing time into the planning process, ensuring our customers have a great design and a really well-thought out approach to the renovation as a whole,” Renovation Consultant Kathleen Magon says.
“Quite o en rookie renovators, (this includes myself in the past), get really excited by an idea and jump right in. But when you’re learning along the way, they can be expensive lessons. Even for a single-room renovation, a kitchen or bathroom for example, they can be potentially the most valuable rooms in your house, so you want to do justice to those spaces. If your home is worth $2 million, the renovation should be re ective of the overall value. It should also be functional, which, combined with the aesthetics, increases the value and enjoyment of living there.”
Before a hammer is even picked up, Refresh Renovations® deliver customers a 360° computer-generated walk-through of the renovated space, so they can see how everything looks together.
“We sit down with customers and talk through their initial ideas, translating that into a concept and helping with selections. Once we’ve got a concept design, we can give them an indicative cost, let them know roughly how long it will take, so they can plan around how long their kitchen will be out of action. en we create a photo-realistic 3D render of the space for a virtual tour. It’s such an incredible tool that really gives homeowners the con dence they’re making the right decision for their family and their home. We want our customers to have as much information as possible, so they can make informed decisions.”
Refresh Renovations® o er a complete design-to-build service, from singleroom renovations to full home renovations, both interior and exterior, including landscaping. ey can improve insulation, upgrade glazing, change oor plans to improve functionality, reclad exteriors, and completely refresh kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, lounges and everything else. ey can also manage the council resource consent process if required. Customers don’t need to have any involvement at all, which is helpful for people with investment properties who live elsewhere.
e company has preferred relationships with a whole range of local trades and is the main liaison to them, helping translate homeowners’ wishes into tradie talk, ensuring they get what they actually want.
“We’ve got really good relationships with key trades, who are used to working with us and understand what our expectations are. And, most importantly, they stand behind the quality of their work, so we know our customers will get the outcome they’re really happy with and they will love spending time in their new space.
“Overall, we’re here to guide people through the renovation journey and mitigate the various pitfalls along the way. Building can be disruptive and stressful so we here to help make the process as seamless as possible, with a wonderful quality build as the end result.”
For more information call 0800 758 012 or visit www.refreshrenovations.co.nz/locations/queenstown-wanaka
Rebeca Barnes - Financial Adviser in conjunction with Soda Queenstown would like to thank the following businesses for their support in our first annual Long Ladies Lunch at Soda Queenstown on the 22nd November, this year raising funds for Central Lakes Family Services.
• Andres’ Bike Studio •Angel Divine• Beta Financial Group
• Erik’s Fish and Chips•Gibbston Valley • Gin Kits NZ
• Greenstone Entertainment•Industrial Fitness Gym and Fight Club
• Kinloch Wilderness Retreat•La Rumbla
• Life Pharmacy Wilkinsons•Local Queenstown
•Margo’s Queenstown•Miller Road Fragrance Studio
•Radiance Skin & Day Spa•RealNZ•Ride To The Sky
•Sangha - Yoga - Queenstown•Serenity Sessions
•SODA Queenstown•The Rees Hotel, Luxury Apartments and Lakeside Residences • The World Bar Queenstown
• Well Spa • Yonder•Mitch Martin Real Estate- Auctioneer
•Elle and Alex Music•DJ Risk
Crown Range closures
The alpine pass between Queenstown and Wānaka will be closed this week while contractors clear slips brought down by heavy rainfall in September and October.
Crown Range Road will be closed between State Highway 6, near Queenstown, to just south of Cardrona township from Monday to Friday, 25-29 November, 8am-4pm.
The road will be open outside of these hours for early morning / late afternoon commuters and other travellers, while resident access will provided every hour on the hour.
“Crews can safely resolve most of the issues up there without much disruption to motorists, but one slip on the zig zags just up from SH6 will require more significant work to clear it and ensure the safety of those driving this route,” Queenstown Lakes District Council’s infrastructure ops manager Simon Mason says.
“We’ve assessed a range of methods to tackle repair works and determined that while closing the Crown Range will be disruptive, it’s the safest and quickest way to clear loose material up there and secure the route for future users.”
A detour is available via Kawarau Gorge, although NZTA Waka Kotahi has multiple worksites there, so there could be delays.
The road between Wānaka and Cardrona township will remain open as normal and there’ll be access for emergency vehicles along the whole road at all times.
Alfresco fracas
Republic Hospitality is considering legal action over Queenstown’s outdoor dining fees, reports RNZ.
Blair Impey, CEO of the hospo giant which runs 11 local venues including The Ballarat, Winnies, SODA, 1876 and Habana, says his company’s fees have been hiked from $3200 to $51,000 by Queenstown Lakes District Council.
The bill is due on 1 December but Impey says instead he’ll be sending a legal letter to QLDC as his lawyers have told him he can seek a judicial review.
QLDC’s alfresco dining fee increases have disgusted downtown restauranteurs, and both Queenstown Business Chamber of Commerce and Hospitality New Zealand is backing them, saying the sector is struggling and the increases couldn’t come at a worse time.
Hospitality NZ chief executive Steve Armitage tells RNZ’s Checkpoint legal action is not something to be taken lightly.
“But it shows the depth of feeling amongst a number of operators in and around Queenstown city (sic) centre,” he says.
“I do want to stress though, I think everybody understands the funding constraints that local government is experiencing at the moment, particularly
Tourism award for local high-flyers
iFLY Indoor Skydiving Queenstown won the Wayfinder Community Engagement Award at the Tourism Industry Aotearoa Awards early this month.
Owner and district councillor Matt Wong accepted the award, which recognised the company’s iFLY Youth Empowerment Programme.
“It was truly a surprise and privilege to have our work in supporting community recognised alongside so many great operators in the industry, all of whom are deserving winners,” Wong says.
“This achievement is not just ours; it’s shared with all the community individuals and organisations that have partnered with the iFLY Indoor Skydiving Queenstown team since 2021.
“Through our collective efforts and collaboration with so many local health agencies, schools, and support organisations, we’ve created a Youth Empowerment Programme that’s greater than any one organisation could achieve alone.”
Wong thanked collaborators Te Hau Toka, Whakatipu Youth Trust, Epic Kids, Queenstown Primary School, QLDC, and Te Whatu Ora.
“Your belief in the power of tourism’s social license to drive positive change is inspiring.”
The week of closures will also provide an opportunity for a thorough inspection and maintenance, including sweeping / cleaning, pavement work, fixing minor potholes and edge breaks, and checking signage.
From Monday to Friday, 2-6 December, 8am-4pm, work to clear some of the smaller slips will be completed, with one lane closed and stop / go in operation.
in locations like Queenstown. Nobody has any qualms about paying for the privilege of outdoor dining, or for that to be something that increases over time in a reasonable and justifiable manner ... but the extent of these increases is just tough to comprehend at this time, given the challenges that the sector has been experiencing in the last couple of years.”
Armitage says QLDC’s consultation on the increases was not transparent enough and appeared designed to reach a particular outcome. He encouraged QLDC to look at the example of other councils around the country, who’ve waived charges for periods of time.
QLDC, meanwhile, in a statement to RNZ on the general points, say they’re right to charge a fair rate for businesses who make use of community assets for private profit, and believe they have followed a good process.
“If any individual or group believes there is a legal flaw in a council policy, as opposed to dissatisfaction with it, then the council would expect them to formally raise that in correspondence with the council,” the statement says.
“This would allow council to consider the matter and respond, rather than immediately begin legal proceedings.”
Monthly Column
Joseph Mooney MP for Southland
There are some exciting things afoot in Queenstown and it was great to have the Prime Minister in town last week visiting our beautiful basin.
Queenstown is well known for many reasons including fantastic tourism and hospitality offerings.
What is not so well known is the increasing diversity of other initiatives which add to the richness of our region.
For example, I recently took Minister Goldsmith to visit the new Remarkable Studios in Frankton, which is the first studio facility or wet weather cover for Queenstown, and means more opportunities to attract film and tv shoots to our region. I was fortunate enough to see an early screening of A Remarkable Place to Die at Dorothy Brown’s in Arrowtown which had been filmed at the studio and around Queenstown. It has since gone on to do very well in Prime Time TV in Australia showcasing our incredible region to our friends in the Western Island.
It is exciting that the University of Otago has approved work to progress an ambitious development project to create a strong and permanent presence in Queenstown and the Lakes District to drive the growth of both the University and the region.
I also recently visited the Research and Innovation Queenstown building under construction at Remarkables Park. Along with creating space for a number of research and innovation initiatives, this facility will house four cinemas on its ground floor.
Technological advancement is laced into Queenstown’s history, and I was talking recently with the CEO of the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Professor Graham Le Gros. The Institute is based in Wellington and conducts cutting-edge research and clinical trials to advance understanding of the immune system and its relationship to human health, among other research functions
I learnt that the Malaghan Institute’s seeds were sown in our town. Through the generous support of Len and Ann Malaghan the Wellingtonbased institute was formally named after the Malaghan family in 1986.
Len Malaghan was born in Queenstown and demonstrated an entrepreneurial spirit by developing his own formula for ice cream and went on to establish the well known kiwi firm Tip Top.
He was diagnosed with cancer at age 56, leading him to become a major benefactor of medical research. I’m sure Len and his wife Ann would be pleased to see the science and technology developments adding to our tourism and hospitality strengths in the Queenstown Lakes region.
The Government has also been hard at work, and I’ll mention a couple of initiatives that are of interest to our region.
Cabinet has agreed to invite all regions to submit proposals for Regional Deals between central and local government that drive economic growth and deliver the infrastructure our country needs. The Government will then prioritise the regions which have the most potential to deliver on the Government’s economic growth agenda. The Government’s intention is to have the first deal concluded by the end of 2025, with three deals expected to be in place by October 2026.
The Government has also refreshed its Public Private Partnership (PPP) framework. This updated approach, which has cross-party support, aims to attract international capital and expertise to infrastructure projects, ensuring high-quality services with a focus on long-term sustainability rather than short-term gains.
Government is also in the process of developing New Zealand’s 30year National Infrastructure Plan. This was a National Party campaign commitment and will assist us to look at what is needed over the next 30 years and identify the gaps between long-term needs and planned investments.
This will help New Zealand plan for, fund and deliver important projects into the future.
These initiatives offer a lot of promise for our region, but will also require significant work to realise. We are of course a region where innovation, entrepreneurialism and hard work are encoded into our DNA, and there is an exciting future ahead.
LAKES WEEKLY LINE ADS WORK? Because your market is searching for your ad – make it work for you. Book online at www.lwb.co.nz or by email to enquiries@qmg.co.nz
My Life Story
by Sue Fea
HELEN HILLARY
Multi-tasking mountain mum
She’s milked cows, driven school and tour buses on remote dusty roads and rubbed shoulders with Hollywood elite, not to mention the four kids she’d had by age 25. For Helen Hillary, it’s all just a case of “knuckle down and do what you can”.
Now 84, Helen, one of nine, grew up during the Great Depression working hard on her parents’ Canterbury farm, milking cows for cream for the butter factory. The cream cart came by nearly every day. After a number of rural family moves south, Helen left school young and moved to Christchurch where she met husband Naylor Hillary, then a painter and decorator. “I wasn’t marrying a farmer, but I didn’t know his deepest wish was to be one,” she laughs.
However, they ended up buying out their partner in a 500-acre (202.3ha) Glenorchy farm they’d part owned while living with their young family in Gore. ‘The Priory’, just before The Hillocks and Dart Bridge, was to be home for 46 years, so back on the farm Helen was, four kids then aged from fi ve to 11 in tow.
They saved the Glenorchy School though. “Things were bad as they had only six pupils and the Education Department was going to close it.”
Two other families from an outlying station and farm took their kids off Correspondence School and, thanks to school committee chairman Jim Robie, they even got approval for a school bus van.
Initially, the Glenorchy Road was just a dirt road with grass for a centreline, but rough backcountry roads didn’t faze Helen with her farming background. Long before job sharing was a thing, she and Barb Veint took fortnightly shifts at driving the school bus, collecting pupils from the Routeburn Valley, Paradise and Kinloch. Helen drove that for 17 years. The NZ Railways tourist bus used to bring the mail to Glenorchy once a week and the week’s newspapers too. “We’d catch up with seven days of newspapers all at once. H & H took over from the Railways and I had a bus licence so they asked me to drive that bus too.”
It was a very tight schedule that would daunt any busy CEO, fi nishing the school bus run then heading up the Rees Valley and down to Greenstone, initially through 18 fords, connecting with the Routeburn bus for trampers and visitors. “That was six days a week then home to cook tea, but the kids helped out a lot.”
Then in her ‘spare time’ Helen would drive the big family Ford Fairlane to Queenstown on the dirt road to collect her kids, who eventually boarded in town while attending Queenstown District High School. “Sometimes I’d have extra kids in the car that my kids had spontaneously invited for the weekend.”
Prior to that their eldest had boarded at Timaru Boys. The roof there blew off the hostel in high winds so without any parental warning Wakatipu students were bundled into a bus and sent home. “Bill Duggan rang on the party line at 4am so Naylor put the trailer on and headed to Queenstown,” Helen says. “Halfway back they all saw a wheel running downhill past them, across the road and over the bank into the lake.” It was off Naylor’s car which had just been serviced at the garage.
That car survived but their eldest son’s car, ‘Orinoko’, met its demise on the movie set of ‘Race for the Yankee Zephyr’ during fi lming up the Rees Valley.
A few years later Helen pitched in at the local pub to help cook for The Willow stars during local fi lming, including young directors, George Lucas, of Star Wars fame, and Ron Howard, from Happy Days. “I baked a birthday cake for George Lucas’s 27th birthday,” Helen recalls. “They were all in mobile homes in Paradise. They wanted snow. Come fi lming they got 10 inches (25.4cms). The snow was that deep that it pulled the exhaust system off my Subaru truck heading down to cook them breakfast.”
The two stars later cooked Helen a crayfi sh dinner in their mobile home as thanks for saving and keeping their dinners hot while they helped others through the snow. “They really appreciated that.”
In 2003 Helen and Naylor retired to Frankton overlooking the arm where Helen volunteered for Meals on Wheels, carried on with local Indoor Bowls, and, as a keen keyboardist, became President of the Shotover Country Music Club.
The view’s not the same from her Frankton home now that the old Methodist Camp has been replaced by the Hilton. “But for four years every New Year we’d sit on the Frankton Reserve and listen to the bagpipes being played from that camp. It was absolutely gorgeous with the fi reworks going off beyond, a dream come true. I thought I’d died and gone to heaven.”
Not yet Helen, too much to do.
Helen and local great grandson Zion
Helen taking a rare break with her cat, Tina, a regular passenger on the school bus - 1982
Helen, back in the day, after transferring passengers from her H & H bus, left, on to the main passenger bus to Queenstown, right
Motatapu celebrates 21 years
Motatapu organisers say next year’s race is on track to go ahead, despite the tough economic climate forcing many other long-running events to pull pin.
Race director and co-owner Gemma Peskett and her team are looking forward to seeing riders, runners and walkers line up on the start line in just under 100 days, as the event comes of age.
“21st birthdays are something to celebrate and when we get to race day on 1 March next year it’ll be an extra special occasion,” she says.
One of the largest off-road events on the New Zealand sporting calendar, the Motatapu has close to 4000 participants, drawn by unique one-day-ayear access to three stunning high-country stations, Motatapu, Soho and Glencoe stations.
In 2025, they’ll take on the 52.5km Rab Ultra Run, the 42km Allpress Espresso Trail Marathon (run or walk options), the 47km Mondraker Mountain Bike (individual, teams and e-bike options), the 15km UDC Finance Miners Trail (run & walk options), and the 4km Jennian Homes Junior Trail Run.
Peskett has been involved with the event for over a decade and took ownership with business partner Craig Gallagher in 2020.
She says entries for the 2025 Motatapu are filling up, and urges anyone still thinking about it who hasn’t quite got around to signing up to do so as soon as possible.
New website for
Arrowtown
Arrowtown Promotion and Business Association (APBA) has launched a new website to showcase the town: www.arrowtown.com.
APBA Manager Nicky Busst says outdoor recreation and the arts are becoming increasingly important drawcards, along with the town’s goldmining heritage, food and shopping.
The cut-off for early bird entry fees is 31 December. Visit motatapu.com for more info.
Read more of this story on lwb.co.nz and the Queenstown App.
“The last year in particular has seen a significant shift in our arts and cultural offering in Arrowtown,” Busst says. “We have had new galleries and studios open and many also let you meet the artist in-person as they curate their masterpieces in situ.
“Arrowtown also continues to become the go to place for biking, running and outdoor events. Because of this we needed to evolve the website to better showcase the town’s offerings and support local businesses and events.”
The Motatapu, The Arrowtown Backyard Ultra, Cyclorama, Queenstown Marathon, and The WILD have all been on Arrowtown’s events calendar in recent years.
Although The WILD was cancelled this year, local economist and APBA chairman Benje Patterson estimates it brought $1 million of new spending into Queenstown Lakes, with two-thirds of participants staying in Arrowtown. And he expects the biking could become almost 50% of the size of the ski visitor economy by 2026, especially with new trails such as Wharehuanui Trail and Kawarau Gorge Trail, which make Arrowtown an important hub on the trails network.
The new website by APBA, the non-profit organisation responsible for the marketing and advocacy of Arrowtown, offers easy access to business and events information, and a significant upgrade for business members with access to data, events and insights.
Read more of this story on lwb.co.nz and the Queenstown App.
Ingenuity of young designers praised
Dunstan High School student Tom Smale has won the Queenstown Airport competition to design a better luggage trolley.
Secondary school students from Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago were challenged to design a trolley that is stable, nestable, and easy to use to carry the wide variety of items passengers bring through ZQN. Bonus points were offered for safety brakes, a seat for a child weighing up to 20 kilograms, a locking system to prevent the trolley being taken beyond the airport boundary, and advertising space.
Smale took the $1,000 prize, impressing judges by tackling the challenge in a completely original way. Cromwell College’s Liam Douglas was runner up.
A graphic design package was also offered for the best design produced from a class of Year 10 students from Wakatipu High School, who were guided through the project as part of a design and visual communication course. First place went to Jaeca Isabelle Castillo, with Milla Leemborg the runner-up. “We are incredibly impressed by the creativity and ingenuity displayed by all participants,” Queenstown Airport Chief Operating Officer Todd Grace says. “Their designs not only address the unique challenges faced by our passengers but also reflect the talent in our community.”
While no design was the complete solution, Grace says, the airport now has some great new ideas and concepts for a better trolley, which it will develop with an engineering firm.
From left, design package winner Jaeca Isabelle Castillo, Queenstown Airport Facilities Coordinator Jimmy English, and runner-up Milla Leemborg
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
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
CANCER Care / SELF CANCER Care Program / SELF CANCER Care machine
Share with a new generation, before it’s too late. Media is deteriorating rapidly. CD Imaging can digitise 8mm, vids, negs, slides, photos. Based in Wanaka and Alexandra at 59 Centennial Av. photos@cdimaging.co.nz
FLATMATE WANTED. WARM HOUSE WITH great views in Thompson St. Single bedroom. $300 per week including bills. Call 0274426933
MODERN, SUNNY EN-SUITE ROOMS AVAILABLE asap in Shotover Country. Looking for clean, respectful long term flatmates. Not a party house! Interested? Drop a text with brief about yourself to 0212933850
ISITE QUEENSTOWN HAS MOVED TO a temporary location at The Station Building, on Shotover Street until early December.
OTAUTAHI TATTOO - FLASH DAY. Join us on Sat 7 Dec from 10am to 7pm for our annual Flash Day! We’re bringing together 8 talented artists, each creating unique one-off flash designs. It’s first come, first served, so get in early to secure your favourite piece! We’ll also have smaller repeatable designs available. $80–$400 (absolute bargains!) Payment is cash only. Don’t miss this chance to grab some incredible tattoos and celebrate the day with us. We can’t wait to see you there!
3. What is the chemical element with the symbol Fe?
4. What is the difference between brandy and cognac?
5. What is the highest-grossing film of all time?
6. What is the highest-rated film on IMDb as of January 1, 2024?
7. What is the largest Spanish-speaking city in the world?
8. What is the longest-running Broadway musical?
9. What is the loudest animal on Earth?
10. What is the main ingredient in hummus?
11. What is the most common surname in the United States?
12. What is the name of the Chinese philosophical system that emphasizes harmony with nature?
13. What is the name of the Japanese art of preparing and presenting food?
14. What is the name of the world's first artificial satellite?
15. What is the national sport of Japan?
16. What is the only flag that does not have four sides?
17. What is the only mammal capable of true flight?
18. What is the outermost layer of the Earth’s atmosphere called?
19. What is the primary ingredient in the alcoholic beverage absinthe?
20. What is the primary ingredient in the Italian dessert tiramisu?
QUIZ ANSWERS:
1. Ottawa | 2. Dublin | 3. Iron | 4. Cognac must come from the Cognac region of France | 5. Avatar | 6. The Shawshank Redemption | 7. Mexico City | 8. The Phantom of the Opera | 9. Sperm whale | 10. Chickpeas (garbanzo beans) | 11. Smith | 12. Taoism | 13. Moritsuke | 14. Sputnik 1 | 15. Sumo wrestling | 16. Nepal | 17. Bat | 18. Exosphere | 19. Grand wormwood | 20. Mascarpone cheese
Got an eye for detail and a can-do attitude? Join our growing team as a Vehicle Detailer/Dealership Assistant! We need someone with high standards who takes pride in presenting vehicles at their best.
What's in it for you? A full-time, permanent 40-hour role with competitive pay, ongoing training, and opportunities to grow your skills with global brands. Join our close-knit team, ready to support you every step of the way!
To apply, contact Duncan Wright: duncan@queenstownmotorgroup.co.nz
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
jobfix.co.nz
REQUIRED NOW!!!!!!
Skilled and Unskilled Labourers
Traffic Controllers
Looking for casual, temporary or long term work??
Queenstown Personnel and Labour Hire are looking for labourers for a variety of jobs around Queenstown with an immediate start.
Contact Sharleen - 027 778 7377
Arrow Transport is looking for a Qualified Hiab Driver to join our small family owned business, based in Arrowtown. We are offering an excellent pay rate and flexible hours for the right person.
If you have a class 4 or 5 licence and are truly customer focused please phone Roger on 027 285 0424 or email office@arrowtransport.co.nz
Would suit retired person with a zest for gardening. Applicants respond to jltos@bigpond.com
CASUAL HOUSEKEEPER
required by small accommodation business close to Arrowtown. Friendly working environment. Onsite basic accommodation available ($95/week inc. power/1-2 persons). Hours of work will increase as the season progresses. Attractive hourly rate. Own transport essential.
Please email info@willowbrook.net.nz
Mechanic / Tyre Fitter
Frankton Tyre Services is looking for two new additions to our growing team! We have expanded our workshop and require another mechanic with at least 2 years of relevant experience to service our customers vehicles and Snap Rentals vehicle fleet. We offer competitive rates, permanent full-time hours (36+) a great working environment and are open to sponsoring the right applicant.
If you want a change and we sound like a good fit, email jobs@snaprentals.co.nz with your CV or contact Ella directly by calling 021 289 8900 for more information.
CLEANERS
Full and Part time positions available
Amazing individuals required to join our fun team as:
• New Build & Commercial cleaning experts
• Air b n b & residential cleaning professionals
• Full training given! Great Pay Rates!
• Travel and vehicles provided!
• Check us out @ www.slithytoves.nz Email us for full details and a trial! slithytoves33@gmail.com
Committed to a healthy work/life balance!
Partners in Grime are looking for new cleaners to join our team! We specialize in cleaning and preparing high-end holiday homes, residential cleaning, builders cleaning, and commercial cleaning.
We are a small friendly team, searching for fun, energetic people to join us permanently full time 30-40 hours a week. Wage $27.00 per hour.
No Experience is required as full training will be provided.
Important information: Shifts are scheduled on a rotating 7-day weekly roster. Employees must be available to work weekends.
A current NZ driver's licence is essential
Please send your CV & application to: info@partnersingrime.co.nz.
We are currently seeking an experienced
CHEF OR LINE COOK
The successful candidate will have a working holiday visa, valid for at least 6 months, longer is preferred Our head chef is Latin American, so speaking Spanish would be advantageous but not a requirement. Please email your CV to: Chris@smithscraftbeer.co.nz
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
jobfix.co.nz
Patagonia Chocolates is looking to fill the following positions. We are gearing up for the summer season and have the following positions available.
Barista
Arrowtown, Queenstown & Wanaka
We are seeking full-time experienced, longterm Baristas to join our team. At least one years' experience making Barista coffee is essential.
Pastry Chef Assistant
Queenstown
If you love all things sweet and would like to work in a dynamic, busy kitchen we would love to hear from you. The applicant would need to have experience in pastry as well as the production and plating of a la carte and cabinet desserts. Experience beyond 3 years is a plus.
Please send your CV and cover letter to admin@patagoniachocolates.co.nz remembering to specify the position you are applying for.
Antonio Salles BARBER SHOP
Mon - Fri 9am to 5pm
We are looking for an independent BARBER / HAIRDRESSER to share our space.
antonio_salles_barber
Queenstown 021 297 8705
If you have two years of experience and a valid work visa, come work alongside some fun people, in a co-working arrangement.
Enquiries via email to antoniosallesbarber@gmail.com
AVIS & Budget Queenstown
RENTAL SALES AGENT
Do you enjoy working in a fast paced environment where the days go quickly?
Do you enjoy meeting and talking to people from all over the world?
Do you appreciate a consistent working roster because your life outside of work is important too?
If you answered yes to any of these then maybe this customer service, sales and office administration based role is the new job for you.
Full Time contracts available with set days off, Shifts are mostly 8am to 5.30pm with at least one evening shift per week. The role also requires you to work weekends. You'd be based out of our Queenstown Airport office in Frankton or our downtown office
What you need:
• Full drivers licence
• Good command of the English language
• Working rights in New Zealand
Please send a CV to: claire.hampson@abg.com
HOUSEKEEPERS WANTED
• Self motivated, able to work alone
• Efficient, able to work under pressure
• Experience preferred but not essential
• Available to work any day of the week
• Staff required immediately and for busy summer period
• Attractive hourly rate offered.
• Driver’s license essential.
Email your CV to operations@staysouth.com
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
jobfix.co.nz
Full-time A la carte & prep cheF
Summer is coming, and we need a skilled baker with strong character and work ethic to help us open our new International Eatery at Queenstown Airport!
If you love baking cakes, slices, biscuits, scones, mu ns, and savoury treats, join our growing team. Formal qualifications aren’t necessary— just solid baking skills, a positive attitude, and a great work ethic.
Sta accommodation available.
Also hiring
• Baker
• Store Person
APPLY NOW
Scan QR or email birthes@joeshq.co.nz
Check out www.airspresso.co.nz www.provenancecafe.co.nz
PlaceMakers Queenstown
Drive Thru & Yard Team Leader
Hardworking & fun Drive-Thru & Yard Team require an excellent Team Leader
WHAT ARE WE OFFERING?.....
• 45 hours per week Monday to Friday
• Weekends & all public holidays free to enjoy!
• Exceptional teammates who will support you
• Long term career progression opportunities
WHAT DO YOU NEED TO BE SUCCESSFUL?....
• Physically fit & strong (frequent heavy lifting )
• Leadership skills
• Excellent Customer Services Skills
• Can innovate systems and processes to next level
• Health & Safety focused
• NZ residence, citizen or holds a current NZ work visa
If this role interests, please send a cover letter & C.V. to Rachel – Rachel.mansfield@placemakers.co.nz
Here is your chance to join the team We’re holding open interviews on: Friday 6th December from 2:00-4:00pm,
