I hope the festive period has been exactly that and you have had a chance to connect with family and friends and recharge those batteries.
Summer is the busiest time of year for many, so I also want to acknowledge everyone who has been hard at work over this time.
For me, the holiday period has provided a chance to get deep into the mountains of this wonderful place we live in.
This is also a time of reflection and a time to focus on goals for the year to come. 2025 is shaping as a year of significant change. Big technological change as well as global political change beckons this year.
Just last week Mark Zuckerberg has announced significant changes to his social media platforms emphasising a return to a focus on free speech.
This made me think of a very interesting speech by Prime Minister of Estonia Kristen Michal, who attributed the most important contributions of his party helping lift Estonia out of a communist backwater to building it into one of the world’s most advanced small states has been their focus on freedom.
He says “a 21st century state of free citizens trusts its people” and “life will improve only when solutions are in the hands of citizens, not dictated by the state.”
The rapid development of technology such as artificial intelligence is another theme for 2025 - one that could be seen as a concern - or as a significant opportunity. Queenstown, as a place with a long history of innovation and with a developing interest in technology, is well placed to lead in this space if it chooses to.
It’s also led me to a fascinating article by American technologist Marc Andreessen, who argues that technology and markets have lifted humans out of poverty for hundreds of years, and presents an opportunity to do so in an unprecedented way going forwards.
He makes a compelling argument that intelligence is the birthright of humanity, and we should expand it as fully and broadly as we possibly can. He points out we are now literally making sand (silicon) think, and poses the question of what more we are capable of.
Technology is a big part of the solution to environmental degradation. A technologically advanced society improves the natural environment, a technologically stagnant society ruins it.
We will need much more energy, but energy need not expand to the detriment of the natural environment with technologies that we have either already available to us or in development.
It is a profoundly positive vision, and worth considering as we look to the future and what we would like to see in it.
Joseph Mooney - Queenstown’s MP (Southland constituency)
Fragant fried rice Fragant fried fried
It was all smiles as 8000 people attended the 109th Lake Hayes A&P Show on Saturday, enjoying a new kids’ zone, along with the grand parade, showjumping, livestock displays, home industries and much more. Photo: Frame Power
A&P Show another cracker day out
Around 8000 people turned out to the 109th Lake Hayes A&P Show on Saturday. Held at the showgrounds above Lake Hayes near Arrowtown, the historic annual event is always a popular big day out for locals as they kick into the new year.
Show President Kate Hamilton says this year’s celebration of rural life, agriculture, and community spirit was another great success.
“The weather was perfect, the views unmatched, and the community came together to enjoy all things that make A&P shows special,” Hamilton says. Showjumping was back on the schedule after a one-year hiatus, along with the grand parade, livestock displays and arts and crafts competitions, while a new kids’ zone was also a big hit.
Hamilton thanked the volunteers without whom “this event simply wouldn’t happen”. They were rewarded for their efforts by NZSki, who donated Coronet Peak ride passes.
Many locals businesses now throw financial support behind the festival. Principal festival partner Queenstown Airport sponsored the kids’ zone, while Classic Builders supported the equestrian arena, and Five Mile sponsored the main stage and well-used Park and Ride shuttle.
Ayrburn and Swifty came on as platinum partners. Swifty is the beer brand from Queenstown’s Royalburn Station, the regenerative paddock-to-plate farm, whose owners Carlos Bagrie and Nadia Lim were made ONZMs in the New Year Honours - check out the lwb.co.nz for all the locals who received honours.
Hamilton says its great to have the support of local businesses behind the community event and to welcome new partners. She also thanks backers Queenstown Lakes District Council, Lotteries, Central Lakes Trust, Creative NZ. And the show’s sustainability push continues.
“Our efforts to reduce waste continue and the DISHrupt team were working hard throughout the day to help us almost eliminate single use cups and containers from the event, Hamilton says. “A pretty stunning effort with close to 8000 people estimated to have enjoyed the show this year.”
More Frankton trees for the chop
Work begins this Tuesday to chop down 44 trees and shrubs near Frankton bus station. Kā Huanui a Tāhuna (Whakatipu Transport Programme Alliance) is removing the trees on the bus hub side of SH6 to make room for new stormwater pipes as part of the SH6 / 6A Frankton intersection and bus hub improvements.
It has already felled dozens of trees on the other side of the road, near the golf course. In all, some 124 trees will be removed as the Alliance - Waka Kotahi, Queenstown Lakes District Council, contractors and planners - work on the $250 million upgrade programme.
SH6 Kawarau Road will be closed from 10pm on Tuesday, 14 January, to 6am the next day, to fell the tallest trees. This will be done with an excavator and chainsaw.
“During the day for three weeks, the rest of the trees will be cut and mulched with a chipper within the fenced area,” the Alliance work notice reads. “While trenching for the stormwater pipes is underway we’ll use Airvac trucks and diggers.
“Later, the tree removal will also enable us to start work on deep trenching for wastewater and underground power connections, road foundations, moving and extending the weigh pit and doubling the size of the bus hub.”
Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency media manager Frances Adank says help is on hand for a specific person potentially affected by the tree cutting, with support from local social services.
“The crews doing the tree work and fencing are also aware of the situation”, she says.
Around 27,000 vehicles pass through the BP roundabout on an average day, according to NZTA figures, while an estimated 15,000 per day use the bus hub. The new stormwater pipes range in diameter from 225 to 375mm, meaning they can provide capacity during heavy rain events and allow for future development in this area. The water will run into a new stormwater filter box on Ross Street.
Photos: Frame Power
Swisstek
50% off SwisstekSleepyhead Elite. Keep cool with temperature regulating KülKōte.
Harrington’s World Cup doubleNew rating valuations underway
Wānaka freeskier Luca Harrington has claimed back-to-back Freeski Big Air World Cup wins with his second career world cup victory, in Austria over the weekend.
The 20-year-old made history two weeks ago by becoming the first Kiwi to win a FIS Big Air World Cup and now he’s done it again.
“This is absolutely incredible, I did not expect this to happen, it’s been such an honour to be here and to put down two runs again and walk away with the win is incredible,” Harrington says.
Both victories showcased highly technical skill and utter precision both in the air and on his landings.
In his first run on Austria, he posted the highest single jump score of the day right off the bat putting down a flawless switch right triple corked 1620 esco grab and was awarded a huge 95.75 for his efforts. He immediately backed that up with the third highest score of the day (a 92.00) on his second run, stomping a right triple corked 1800 safety grab for a combined winning score of 187.75, nine points clear of his nearest competitor.
“I switched up my game plan today so I was a little unsure coming in, but I am glad I did it and I am so grateful to everyone who has supported me to this moment – my friends, my family, Hamish McDougall [Luca’s coach], Snow Sports New Zealand and all my sponsors, I wouldn’t be here without them. A huge shout out to Kreischberg for the awesome audience here tonight too.”
Harrington was joined on the podium by local hero Matej Svancer of Austria in second and Norway’s Leo Landroe in third.
Next up is the LAAX Open World Cup and switches gears to Freeski Slopestyle.
Meanwhile, ski racer Alice Robinson started 2025 with a bang, claiming the thirteenth World Cup podium of her career with a third place finish at the FIS Giant Slalom World Cup held in Slovenia last weekend. She was in action in Austria over the weekend, finishing 40th in the downhill and 11th in the Super G.
Queenstown homeowners can likely expect pay more council rates this year, as independent valuers work to reassess what their properties are worth.
Every three years, Quotable Value (QV) uses recent local properties sales to reassess the value of every home in the district.
The valuations are then used by Queenstown Lakes District Council as a base for setting rates for the following three-year period, from July 1, 2025.
As every Queenstown Lakes homeowner knows, the value of property is generally always rising - a double-edged sword when it comes to paying council rates.
QLDC raised rates by a record average of 15.8% in 2024, as it looks to fund increasing costs and infrastructure projects.
While homeowners will have to wait to see what the percentage increase is this year, their property’s value will determine the starting level from which the various multipliers are added.
QV South Island revaluation manager Melanie Halliday says the new values are being processed for every property based on its most likely selling price if it had sold on September 1, 2024,
“We have also visited a large number of properties throughout the Queenstown Lakes District, particularly those that have been issued building consents in the last three years,” she said.
“Following careful analysis of all the data by our team of expert property valuers, the updated rating valuations will be independently audited by the Office of the Valuer General to ensure they meet rigorous quality standards, before the new rating valuations are confirmed and eventually posted to all property owners.”
If property owners do not agree with their new rating valuations, they have a right to object through the objection process, which commences for approximately six weeks from when the new rating values are issued.
These details will be posted with all Notice of Rating Valuations once the revaluation has been completed and certified.
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
DOG ADVENTURE WALKS!
Give your furry friend an exciting daytime outing with Adventure Hounds! Our small pack walks keep dogs active and offer socialization training. We handle pick-up and drop-off for your convenience. Contact Natalie on 0210729314.
QUEENSTOWN DHARMA CENTRE, 12 LAKE ST
TUE (14 Jan) @ 6.30pm, Chenrezi Meditation with Annette Macalister SUN (19 Jan) @ 10am, ‘Cultivating Awareness Practice’ followed by ‘Social Sunday’ All are welcome.
Donations for the teachers gratefully accepted. See www.dharmacentre.org.nz or FB
YOUNG PICASSOS
Term 1 2025 | Theme : The Dream
Young Picassos is open for enrolments 2025 with Artist/Teacher Lisa Duncan. Great Fun ! Book Now! Inspired by surrealist paintings, students will EXPLORE imaginary surrealist dreams as we CREATE, PRINT, PAINT and MOULD using key techniques in printmaking, clay and paint. Young Picassos Art Class Friday 3.30- 5pm | Dates: 7 Feb - 4 April
Venue: Te Atamira Fridays 3.30-5pm*(Starts wk2) $280pp incl. materials Contact Lisa Duncan - txt 0223641127 | email: lisadspaintparty@gmail.com
CRIMELINE
Thrown beer handle slashes girl’s cheek
A 21-year-old Southland man was arrested for assault with a weapon after allegedly throwing a large beer handle glass at an 18-year-old Christchurch woman in a Ballarat Street bar, slashing her in the cheek and causing a nasty laceration. Police were called to the 2 January incident at 1.15am and Haggart says the young woman had to be taken to hospital for treatment. There had been a prior incident with some girls and another male, who is understood to have given the alleged offender a bit of a push, prompting him to allegedly throw the glass, she says. The arrested man will appear in court on 10 February.
Urinating on camping gear earns ride home with Police
A Glenorchy Races fan who overindulged ended up getting a free ride back to Queenstown in a police car after he’d been found urinating onto other people’s camping equipment at the race grounds at 8pm on Saturday, 4 January. Haggart says the 31-year-old was so intoxicated that he’d become separated and unable to find his friends, so Police delivered him home.
Picking a fight
An intoxicated 23-year-old Queenstown man was given a formal warning for disorderly behaviour and taken home just before 8.30pm on Sunday, 5 January, after trying to fight with people walking past in Searle Lane. The man was understood to have been refused entry to a bar.
New Year’s Eve fighting
Police inquiries are continuing after a large fight with multiple punches thrown broke out in Ballarat Street at 3.15am on New Year’s Eve. Haggart says Police have spoken to a 19-year-old Southland male and a 17-year-old Christchurch male. They’ve been speaking to witnesses and are continuing to check surrounding CCTV footage after others who may have been involved ran off.
A 36-year-old Queenstown man and a 19-year-old Christchurch man were arrested for allegedly fighting on the street outside McDonald’s Restaurant in Camp Street at 3.45am on New Year’s Eve. Security officers and friends had been trying to separate them, Haggart says. Both men will appear in the Queenstown District Court next month.
Acting Senior Sergeant Sam Oram, area response manager, says overall behaviour on New Year’s Eve was good with only one arrest for an unrelated breach of bail. There was good compliance with the liquor ban, but some revellers were warned and made to tip their alcohol out.
A 36-year-old Queenstown male allegedly became aggressive after being stopped for riding a motorbike with no helmet in Camp Street at 2.30pm on Saturday, 4 January. Haggart says the man allegedly walked away from Police. He was charged with failing to remain stopped, resisting Police and assaulting Police. He will appear in the Queenstown District Court on 27 January.
Senior jet skier escapes unharmed
A 75-year-old Queenstown man was lucky to escape safely after falling off a jet ski close to the Kawarau Falls Bridge rapids at 7.43pm on Monday, 6 January. Sergeant Tracy Haggart says the Coastguard and a jetboat operator were called to rescue the man, however, he managed to swim back to the jet ski and float downstream to calmer waters where he was able to upright the jet ski himself.
Holiday backcountry rescues
Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter crews have been kept busy since Friday, 3 January, after personal locator beacons were activated on the Rees and Greenstone tracks, an alpine area near Fiery Creek, and Dusky Track in Fiordland. Injured trampers were airlifted to hospital from the Rees and Greenstone with a Wakatipu Alpine Cliff Rescue Team member flown in to help with one of the Fiordland rescues to retrieve and injured person off the Olivine River. The Dusky Track rescue retrieved a fatigued tourist who’d gone off the track into dense bush and windfall.
GOINGS ON ABOUT
EVENTS - MUSIC - ART THEATRE - AT THE GALLERIES
Te Atamira’s Holiday Programme 2025
ARTS
Looking for an exciting school holiday programme in Queenstown? Join Te Atamira’s January arts holiday programme this summer, led by accredited art teacher Michelle. Designed for children aged 5-7 and 8-12, this creative multidisciplinary programme inspires creativity through fun, hands-on workshops. Some examples of the workshops on offer include the Wear Your Words Badge Making where kids will get inspired by the Use Your Words exhibition and make a statement with their creativity. They’ll explore typography and design to create bold mixed-media badges that express what matters to them the most. There’s also Clay Safari, where students will sculpt a tiny elephant, Puppet Creations where students will design their own hand puppets using felt, fabric and fun embellishments, and the Lights, Camera, Action improv workshop.
Master a craft and support a good cause! Discover the art of macramé by weaving keyrings and donate your creation to support building an orphanage and school in Tanzania, Africa. This class is bilingual, offered in both Spanish and English, so you can flex those language skills while tying knots. Enjoy complimentary refreshments, but don’t wait – spaces are limited so book your spot by emailing frankton.library@qldc.govt.nz or call 03 441 3680.
When: Thursday, 16 January, 5.30pm – 6.30pm
Where: Frankton Library
Art Workshop by Emma Peers: Expressive Mixed Media
In this class, participants will dive into the world of abstract art and be guided through a range of exercises designed to free up creativity and explore new ways of expression. You’ll focus on mark-making, colour, and form, learning how to break away from realism and embrace abstraction. Whether you’re new to abstract art or are looking to deepen your skills, this class will help you see and interpret your work from a fresh perspective, encouraging bold, expressive creations. Emma is a Scottish-born artist, who emigrated to New Zealand in 2006 after studying at the Glasgow School of Art. Her paintings explore emotion, with recent works focusing on mark-making and manipulating form to evoke a strong sense of feminine expression.
When: Sunday, 19 January, 1pm – 4pm
Where: Nockie’s Palette Cellar Door
Spark Up
BUSINESS
Are you ready to turn your new idea or product into a tangible business? Startup Queenstown Lakes have created a five-hour, in-person workshop designed to help bring your idea to life. The workshop will cover topics such as getting structured and completing a lean business canvas, understanding set up and running costs, and adding structure to your idea with project management principals. This workshop is ideal for when you are stuck in your thoughts, need motivation to move forward and bring your business idea to life. The workshop will also be held in Wānaka on 25 January.
When: Saturday, 18 January, 10am – 3.30pm
Where: Mountain Club, Five Mile
Greenstone Summer Concert
The 2025 Gibbston concert will feature renowned artists Cold Chisel, ICEHOUSE, Big Runga and Everclear in a mammoth anniversary celebration –Cold Chisel are celebrating 50 years, Icehouse 45 years since their first NZ tour and the festival is 15 years old. The local support artist will be Mistep, a fivepiece band from Cromwell College. They won third place this year at the Smokefree Rock Contest with vocalist Grace Tiko winning the award for Best Vocals in 2023.
When: Saturday, 18 January, 10am – 6.30pm
Where: Gibbston Valley, 1976 Gibbston Highway
Small Day Out
An unforgettable afternoon of live music and electric vibes. The day kicks off with a DJ set to get everyone warmed up and in the mood. Opening act Piston Broke will follow, bringing their raw, high-energy rock to the stage. Then, get ready to rock out with the headliners, I See You Tomorrow, who will close the show with their powerhouse sound and stage presence. Come out, bring your friends and enjoy great music, good company, and a fantastic day of live performances.
When: Saturday, 18 January, 2pm – 11pm
Where: Searchlight Brewing
Women’s Fly Night
Build your fly fishing skills and boost your stoke. Join Patagonia Queenstown for a Women’s Fly Fishing Night with local guide Shelen Boyes. This inspiring evening will feature an introduction to fishing, a gear demonstration and insights from Shelen’s latest backcountry adventures on a very special river here in Otago. Whether you’re new to the sport or an experienced angler, this event is the perfect opportunity to connect, learn and be inspired.
When: Wednesday, 22 January, 6.30pm – 8pm
Where: Patagonia, 49 Beech Street, Queenstown
Kea Conservation Evening Talk & Ambassador Training
Join Rangers for a Kea Conservation Evening Talk to learn about the threats to this precious taonga and how local people can help local kea in their everyday. Share your knowledge of kea interactions, work together to solve issues and leave the session as a Milford Kea Ambassador. You can also come and visit the Conservation Trailer parked at Milford Sound during the day on Tuesday, 14 and Wednesday, 15 January to learn more about kea and conservation.
When: Tuesday, 14 January, 7.30pm
Where: Milford Sound Lodge, Fiordland National Park
Arrowtown Burns Supper and Ceilidh Dance
Round up your friends, pop on your glad rags and dance the night away! Returning for its fourth year, the Arrowtown Burns Supper and Ceilidh will be an evening full of authentic Scottish traditions, entertainers, banter, craic, eating, drinking and dancing. You’ll be treated to a traditional Haggis, with a GF, dairy free, nut free, vegan alternative available. After dinner Queenstown’s ‘Hair of the Dog’ Ceilidh band will get the tunes going and Ross, the caller, will lead you with the dance steps – you can join in and enjoy even if you have never been to a Ceilidh before
Queenstown may be the adventure capital of New Zealand by day, but after hours it morphs into the real estate window shopping capital. The reason is simple. Visitors want to return again and again, and so their dream of owning a holiday apartment is very real.
That dream is now becoming more achievable because of a global luxury holiday phenomenon called Second Home. It is based on the foundation principle of co-ownership. Rather than owning a holiday home outright, you buy into it with a select few others. The real beauty of this is that you can afford a far superior residence than if you were purchasing as an individual. For example, $378,000 NZD buys you title to a one eighth share of a luxurious, fully furnished 3-bedroom apartment at Jack’s Point. It’s brand new, and the finish is five-star. Your investment entitles you to six weeks holiday annually so you can really unwind to Queenstown time. Rather than having to rent a 4WD for a considerable cost, you will also own a 2025 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport VXR in the apartment basement for your exclusive use. It even comes complete with ski, snowboard and bike racks for year-round adventure.
Jack’s Point is a sublime location overlooking a breathtaking panorama of natural beauty – lakes, rolling hills and the ever-changing moods of The Remarkables range. If you’re captivated by the adventures that Queenstown offers, then this is your opportunity to co-own what’s arguably the most luxurious ‘base camp’ in NZ.
Purchasing via Second Home means you can afford a more luxurious home –outgoings are a fraction of full ownership. Importantly, and unlike the old days of time-share, you have the security of holding full title deeds to your share. Should you choose to sell in the future, Second Home’s management will handle the whole process, and you’ll also receive any capital gains achieved over the ownership period. The value of your freehold title grows according to the market rather than your rental costs.
A highly experienced management team take care of every aspect of ownership from scheduling reservations to cleaning, maintenance and administration. They coordinate with owners for fairness of seasonal availability, allowing you to experience the four seasons from snowsports to summer aquatics and adventure – you may also split your stays into one- or two-week periods to suit your circumstances.
Second Home is the brainchild of John and Sharon Russell who’ve rewritten the rule book of co-ownership through their extensive experience in luxury boating. Their 25-year success story proves that co-owning is financially smarter, and the figures show the same applies to co-owning versus holiday rentals over time.
For further information, please contact:
John Russell Owner & Founder Second Home jrussell@secondhomecoownership.com.au
Friday/Saturday DJs in the beer garden 4pm till late Everyday AVAILABLE FOR FUNCTIONS, free hire Everyday Locals Loyalty Rewards WednesdaySaturday Food Truck, TACOS JAGUAR Friday OPEN MIC 6.30-9.30pm, Every Friday, Elle & Alex Music Saturday SMALL DAY OUT, Rock N Roll, Tickets on Eventfinda
Sun/Mon/Tues Happy days/Hospo specials
$7 Tap Beers
$11 Espresso’s/Margarita’s ALL DAY
TACO TACO HALF PRICE TACOS UNTIL 9pm
GRZLY 9pm start Free Entry
BIG DAWG DAY HALF OFF BIG DAWGS UNTIL 9pm
Silent Disco! 9pm! 3 DJs 3 Channels Free Entry
MITCH EP Happy Hour 9-11pm
GRZLY & STUBACCA The b2b of b2bs! 9pm start
4G w LENNI VIBE All Female DJ Line Up 6pm - Late!
TRIVIA NIGHT Every Monday at 6.30pm $200 Total Bar Tabs for 1st & 2nd Place!
Danny Atkinson Live in the beer garden! 5pm - Late
Tuesday- Saturday NEW DINNER MENU New Cocktails, New Mains, Book NOW
Beats & Baos
$8 Baos 5pm to Late Friday Charlie C Patio Beats! Spritz Specials! Monday-Sunday Coffee Happy Hour 50% off Coffees - 8-9am (BYO Cup)
Arts+Culture
Abstract Art Practice
by Jessica Allen
Award-winning artist Veronica Herber is hosting an interactive workshop that focuses on her signature medium of Japanese Washi Tape alongside graphite drawing. Based in Tamaki Makaurau, Auckland, she’s had her work on display at Te Atamira’s Lyrics and Lines exhibition, and will now bring her engaging exploration of abstract art and celebration of creativity to the venue on 25 January.
Herber has exhibited extensively in Aotearoa and internationally, and recently won a Highly Commended award in the prestigious Parkin Drawing Prize. Her work is described as minimalist abstraction, seated in geometric abstraction and has been widely shown in both public and private galleries. Over the past decade, Veronica has developed an abstract art practice blending minimalism with playful freestyle drawing.
She’s excited to guide participants through various techniques for layering and designing with tape and pencil to create compositions that highlight creativity and experimentation. Te Atamira first approached her through her Christchurch gallery to be part of the Lyrics and Lines Exhibition, which is inspired by the Chartwell 50th Anniversary Project 2024. They’re featuring her artwork No Secrets Left to Say. The lines part of her work come from the tape and markings of her art.
“I make all of my work out of Japanese Washi Tape, and there are rhythms running through my work. It’s abstract, but it’s got a nice rhymical, optical feeling about it – especially the work that’s in that particular show,” Herber says.
The lyrics part comes from the titles for her works, which are lyrics from her late husband’s songs. He was the lead singer of the band dDub, who played the Queenstown Winter Festival for seven years. This has built up Herber’s affinity for the region, and she was happy to be invited down. She explains that this workshop will be a special one – rather than just painting or drawing, she will be bringing down her actual Japanese Washi tape, from her personal collection.
“It’s this beautiful yellow tape and lilac tape, and so it’s not going to be just your average workshop. I’m actually going to be talking about abstract arts as well and what’s behind abstract art, and the fact that you really follow your intuition – you’re not making something that looks like something, you’re actually creating something that comes from somewhere else.”
Silky Otter comes to Queenstown
by Paul Taylor
Queenstown’s new luxury cinema is now open.
Silky Otter, located in the basement level of the $45 million Research & Innovation Queenstown centre in Remarkables Park, screened its first movies on Boxing Day.
The cinema features eight auditoriums, each fitted out with state-of-the-art laser projection screens, 48 leather electric recliner seats, and small tables for in-house food and drinks. It’s the seventh venue in New Zealand for the Silky Otter chain.
Auckland-based founder and managing director Neil Lambert says the aim is to ensure the next generation love going to the flicks as much as their parents did.
“I’m just a move geek and I want people to have an amazing experience when they go to watch a film,” he says.
“There was a time when you could just pack people into an auditorium and throw popcorn in their hands and they were satisfied, but times have changed. Families have 80-inch LED TVs at home, films are available a little quicker than they used to be now we have streaming, and there’s piracy out there as well.”
Lambert says parents don’t want to sit in crappy seats, with poor food, to watch a movie they aren’t really interested in seeing.
“They aren’t taking their kids to the movies as much, so we have a generation that don’t really know how to watch a film. They’re distracted and less engaged with what’s happening.
“So what we’ve tried to do is create a hospitality experience, because when you go to the movies, you watch them on a completely different level.”
Silky Otter Queenstown is showing 11 different movies this week including Nosferatu, Conclave, Paddington in Peru, Gladiator 2, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 and Wicked.
The workshop will be cantered around exploration for the artist. It’s all about observation and people’s connection to artwork, and what makes them feel. There’s no judgement and you’re encouraged to play around and enjoy the materials. While Herber is now an artist, she used to work as a facilitator so is looking forward to joining her two talents.
“Because it’s abstract, you don’t actually need any experience or formal training. It’ll be very much low experimentation, it’ll be a nice gentle exploration – about the joy of making itself rather than coming up with a result or feeling like you have to come up with something in a certain way.”
Understanding Herber’s work through process will be part of it, too. Taking a material, which in her case was the Washi Tape, and doing exploration around that – understanding what you can do with it and being surprised. You’ll also pick up a pencil, but no drawing skills are necessary, it’s just a bit of fun.
“I’ll be creating a really supportive, fun environment. It’s a workshop for anybody that wants to try things out and even the first steps into abstraction,” Herber says.
The Washi Tape and Drawing Workshop with Veronica Herber will be at Te Atamira on Saturday, 25 January. All materials will be provided on the day. You can find out more information and grab tickets at teatamira.nz/events/ washi-tape-drawing-workshop-with-veronica-herber
Prices are similar to Queenstown’s other two cinemas, Reading downtown and Dorothy Brown’s in Arrowtown. Tickets are $22 for adults, $16.50 for children and seniors, and $19 for students.
There’s also a higher quality food offering with a menu including sliders, bagels, shareables such as the Silky Otter Signature Fried Chicken with pickles and chipotle mayo, platters, cheese boards, deserts, drinks, alcohol including a choice of wine, beers, cocktails and spirits, and of course popcorn - flavoured with truffle and parmesan if you like. There’s also a kids menu.
“We’ve got to make sure people are getting a better experience for their dollar, because we want them to come back. We want them to be frequent visitors.”
Lambert says one of the auditoriums will be available for private hire, featuring a bar and standing area, as well as seats.
“So you can hire it out to watch the All Blacks, or for a corporate function and screen your own content.”
And the name?
“We wanted to create a brand and have a name that didn’t really mean anything but gave you an emotion. Silky was the concept and ‘otter’ just felt friendly and homely. We ummed and ahhed for two and a half years and it just grew on us.”
Silky Otter founder and MD Neil Lambert
My Life Story
by Sue Fea
STEW BURNS
The
money man
He managed the purse strings for the Queenstown Lakes District Council for nearly 30 years, overseeing billions of dollars’ worth of expenditure in one of the fastest growing districts in the country.
It was all a far cry from what young British migrant Stew Burns had envisaged when he arrived in Tauranga after travelling from England on a ship with his family, aged 12.
Stew’s parents sold their small business outside London and emigrated to New Zealand in 1973 for a better life - a diffi cult move, leaving family behind. “I had visions of riding a horse along the beach and I knew about the All Blacks,” Stew grins.
A newbie in the third form at Tauranga Boys’ College, tall, skinny British Stew says he got “a hard time from the Māori boys on the school bus” but fi tted in fi ne. “I was right into sports, eventually making First 11 Cricket and Football. I have only good memories.”
After completing an English and History degree Stew began teaching in Levin but a serious car accident the fi rst year left him out of action for several months, recovering from a bad concussion. “I’d met friends at The Clash concert in Wellington and fell asleep and hit a tree while driving back by myself,” he says. “My seatbelt snapped, and I went through the windscreen.”
A season at the nearby freezing works was “a real eye opener”, providing excellent life education. “I learned about being part of the workforce, how to interact with staff and how poor the engagement was then between staff and management,” he says. “The workers just weren’t respected as people the way I thought they should be.”
He then scored a job as head of administration for Tauranga City Council’s building department and played representative cricket in Tauranga, even playing some games for Bay of Plenty between 1985 and 1988. “That was my big passion. I was right into it.” He’d also played Central League Football in Levin.
Before long he’d scored the assistant accountant’s role at the council, working full-time and beginning what would be eight to 10 years parttime study, completing a business degree and his chartered accountancy papers. By now married to wife of 31 years Donna and a father of two, plus stepdad to three more, it was quite a “tag team balancing act”. In 1996 Stew scored a job as accountant for the Queenstown Lakes District Council. “We jumped in our Toyota Townace with three kids and headed south. We knew nobody here.” They got involved in the community, Stew the obvious pick for treasurer of the St Joseph’s School board. It was a colourful introduction with Warren Cooper as mayor and Keith Grantham as council chief executive. “I was exposed to a much wider range of issues. Warren would wander around the Ansett House offi ces whistling, stopping to ask what we were working on. He was unconventional, but he always had the best interests of Queenstown at heart.”
Stew’s real initiation came, knees knocking, on the 100m-high Pipeline Bungy platform after winning a staff raffl e. “They all came to watch. There was quite a bit of peer pressure,” he grins. “I have my suspicions that raffl e was rigged.”
The Cooper-led council then decided to contract out its regulatory services to CivicCorp to save money. “No other NZ council had done it, so we were navigating new territory. There was a lot of analysis to work through and I was heavily involved.”
In the early 2000s Stew became fi nance manager and the council successfully tendered for the old Wakatipu Working Men’s Club building in Gorge Road, transformed into its offi ces, by now just 25 administrative staff remaining. There’d been a major restructuring with some job losses, many transferring to CivicCorp. “It was a brave, bold move by the council, attracting a lot of interest from around NZ.” The 2007 council brought those functions back in-house as Lakes Environmental, a councilcontrolled organisation.
Local cricketing legend Joe O’Connell soon had Stew on the cricket pitch playing a St Joseph’s Invitational against Greg Turner’s team at the Rec Ground. Stew then got right amongst the Millbrook Cricket Club, a social cricket club for over 40s. The team toured the UK, Hawaii, Sri Lanka and Australia, Stew on the organising committee for the big Golden Oldies tournament in 2008 which attracted 60 teams to Queenstown, Invercargill and Central Otago.
Stew’s served on the project teams for many local projects, including the Queenstown and Wānaka aquatic centres, Wānaka Recreation and Lake Wānaka centres and Arrowtown community building.
Stew’s served under fi ve different mayors and CEOs, climbing to chief fi nancial offi cer - general manager assurance, fi nance and risk.
He’ll miss the people and the role, but “it’s time for someone else”.
The Burns have built a home in Papamoa, Tauranga, where they’ll be closer to ageing family and grandchildren, but Stew says Queenstown will always be dear to their hearts.
Stew receiving his award for 25 years as a chartered accountant in 2022
Millbrook Cricket Club members on their 2019 trip to Hawaii, Stew second from right, back row
Stew, Donna and the kids - 1996
Lost & Found
UNCLAIMED ITEMS SITTING AT THE Police Station, at 11 Camp Street, this week include:
- SILVER KATE SPADE BANGLE
- RICARDO BORGDORFF WALLET
- GEORGE ANDERSON WALLET
- PAULETTE LODGE – TRAVEL wallet
- SAMSUNG PHONE WITH NIRVANA emblem on front screen
- EARBUD IN CASE, BLACK, labelled ‘Razor’
- GOLD COLOURED SMALL HANDBAG, lipstick and lanolin stick
- DE WALT BATTERY, CHARGER and cable
- IPHONE IN BLACK CASE, front screen male in black and white Xmas outfit
- PANASONIC LUMIX LEICA CAMERA in black case, found on the lakefront
- SAMSUNG PHONE WITH PURPLE case handed to Arrowtown Police Station
- ANDROID PHONE WITH STICKER ‘Trufraz’ on the back
- HUA YAN WALLET
- DENZEL DUARTE WALLET
- IRENE COHN CARDHOLDER
- TYLER WILLIAMS WALLET
- XIAODAN SHEN CARDHOLDER
- MOTOROLA PHONE IN BLACK case
- TITAN GOLD WATCH, LADIES
- MYLES PHILLIPS WALLET
- VIVO PHONE IN BLACK case with triangle design on back
- B. PHILLIPS WALLET
- JEMIMA MAWSON WALLET
- DANE BRAZIER CARDHOLDER
- LEE HWEE LENG – travel purse
- AJAY JAMBHEKAR – PHONE
- GREEN IPHONE IN BLACK case
For Rent
PARKING BAYS IN SECURE FRANKTON building available. Suitable for collectable cars, ski 4WDs, company vehicles etc. Huge storage lockers for multiple bikes, skis etc also large RV or boat park. 240V/fast car charging available. ph Jason 0211561049
FULLY SELF-CONTAINED STUDIO FOR RENT, $400p/w, bills pay monthly, suitable for 2 friends or a couple. Located on Robins Rd, you will have the entire studio not to share facilities with others. Available from now, long-term preferred. 0211877730.
NEVER BIN A BATTERY. THEY cause fires if damaged so keep them out of all rubbish and recycling bins. Safely recycle your batteries and electronic devices at Wānaka & Frankton Transfer Stations.
2. What was the name of the German military strategy of rapid, overwhelming attacks?
3. What year was Cinderella released?
4. What year was the first iPhone released?
5. Where does the Tour de France finish each year?
6. Where is Angel Falls, the world’s largest waterfall, located?
7. Which country is credited with inventing ice cream?
8. Which Disney movie has had the most sequels?
9. Which is the only body part that is fully grown from birth?
10. Which is the only continent with land in all four hemispheres?
11. Which is the only sea without any coastlines?
12. Which of the following sauces is NOT traditionally vegan: hoisin, Worcestershire, mustard, or wasabi?
13. Which planet is closest to the sun?
14. Who famously crossed the Alps with elephants on the way to war with the Romans?
15. Who was the Ancient Greek God of the Sun?
16. Who was the last Tsar of Russia?
17. A 1987 number one hit by The Firm parodied which sci-fi show?
18. A DNA molecule is described as being what shape?
19. A screwdriver cocktail is orange juice, ice and which spirit?
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
jobfix.co.nz
LPG Driver – Rockgas Queenstown
Join the Rockgas Queenstown crew and fill your workday with good energy, great people and a ton of awesome perks.
We’re looking for a driver to deliver LPG cylinders to our customers in the Queenstown / Wakatipu area. While it's great if you've already got driving experience and your Class 2 license (even as a learner), we are also keen to hear from you if you have a full Class 1 license and want to get into driving as a career. We will support you to get your Class 2 license and give you lots of driving experience.
Your job will involve:
• Delivery of LPG cylinders to our customers
• Interacting with our customers
• Safe operation of our trucks
To be considered for this role you must:
• A full Class 1 or a Class 2 vehicle license
• Previous experience in a driving job is an advantage but not essential
• Be physically fit as the job requires moving and loading cylinders
• Enjoy working both on your own and in a team
• Be committed to maintaining a safe work environment
The recruitment process for this role involves a medical check which includes a drug and alcohol test.
What we offer you:
• A competitive hourly rate
• Permanent full-time role, 40 hrs per week
• Monday to Friday working week
• A great team and safe work environment
• Great benefits such as additional leave, medical insurance, a wellness grant and seasonal incentives.
Apply Now:
CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER
jet boat mechanic / driver
We have an exciting opportunity to become a Jet Boat Mechanic / Driver with the world’s first commercial Jet boating company.
This role would suit a mechanic looking to branch out and gain specific skills relating to Jet boats. As part of this role, you will complete our comprehensive Jet boat driver training program, emerging as a qualified Jet boat driver.
Every day at KJet offers a new adventure, from driving Jet boats to helping maintain the operation of our world class Jet boat fleet and company vehicles.
To succeed in this role, you will need to have dedication, good customer relations, flexibility, willing to learn, a great work ethic and a "can do" attitude.
This is a minimum two-year fixed term contract, so NZ residents need only apply.
KJet operates seven days a week, so flexibility to work weekends and/or public holidays is required. An attractive work pattern is available for the right candidate.
If you're ready to live life in the fast lane, like variety in your job, then we’d love to hear from you!
For more information and to apply please email your CV to brett@kjet.co.nz
If you want to fill your workday with good energy, then this is the job you’ve been looking for. Send your CV to Jacqui Cummack on jacqui.cummack@clarus.co.nz before applications close on 27 January.
HOUSEKEEPING SUPERVISOR
We are looking for an experienced and motivated person to lead our small cleaning team. Flexible working conditions, long term position and room to grow/gain experience in guest services for the right candidate. Permanent contract. 5 days per week, Sun-Thurs, core hours 9am to 3pm. Good pay rate.
You will:
• be able to work independently and be a self-starter
• enjoy leading and mentoring staff
• assist in building the cleaning team and training new starters
• be confident in supervising cleaning team on day to day basis to ensure work is completed to a high standard
• order and maintain linen levels, supplies etc
• complete weekly roster for cleaning staff
You must have prior experience in a similar role and a good level of spoken English and comprehension to be considered for the position.
If this sounds like you, we would love to hear from you. Email your CV and cover letter to info@cranbury.co.nz
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
Cocktail Bartender Wanted
• Must be customer service focused.
• Have great knowledge of classic cocktails.
• Be driven to deliver excellence.
We are looking for
DUTY MANAGERS - CHEFS
If you’re an energetic, ambitious & experienced hospitality professional we want to hear from you.
Send your CV to hr@wolfgroup.nz
DUTY MANAGER, BARISTA, FRONT OF HOUSE & CHEFS
Summer has arrived, and we’re looking to fill multiple roles in our exciting new bar/ restaurant in the bustling Queenstown Airport.
If you have an eye for quality, a passion for hospitality, or skills on the grill, come see us! Whether you’re experienced or simply passionate we would love to hear from you.
Apply now
Scan QR or email birthes@joeshq.co.nz
•Staff accommodation available within walking distance
•Accredited Employer
•We offer a competitive salary, best in the industry discounts, ongoing development, and opportunities
•A fun and positive work environment where you’ll make a bunch of new mates
•A flexible roster
•Discounts across the wider West End Hospitality group
•A clear career path with opportunities for advancement
•Delicious food & staff meals
•Free coffee - all day every day
Dental Assistant – Full-time
We are looking for a fantastic new team member to join our busy practice! Remarkables Dental is a modern dental practice with stunning views of the Remarkables mountain range in Queenstown. We currently have a full-time position available for a Dental Assistant to work five days per week.
As a Dental Assistant you will be required to provide chairside assistance to our dentists and hygienists, sterilise instruments, and reception duties as needed.
The successful applicant:
• Be available to work shifts ranging from Monday – Saturday 8:15am - 5:30pm
• Previous dental assisting experience is an advantage but not essential – on the job training will be provided
• Good computer skills
• Good standard of written and spoken English
Perks include staff benefits and discounted treatments, being part of a supportive and fun team, and the potential to upskill and receive ongoing training.
About you:
• A willingness to learn and develop your skills
• A strong work ethic and ability to communicate effectively
• A bubbly personality and team-oriented approach to care
• Attention to detail, enjoys keeping things clean and tidy, and good at multitasking
If this sounds like you, we would love to hear from you! Please email your resume and cover letter to: manager@wanakadental.co.nz
• Must have NZ open work rights. To apply email kenna.matthews@whiteandwongs.co.nz Need someone now? There are currently over 300 willing job seekers
• Must have a previous senior role in a fast paced restaurant
Education and Engagement Contractor
The Whakatipu Reforestation Trust is on the lookout for a new champion for the environment.
If you love plants, restoring and developing native plant ecosystems, are passionate about educating others, particularly children, like getting your hands dirty and spreading wonder and joy, then you could be the person we are looking for.
The role is part time, involves collaboration with schools, sponsors, and other environmental groups to deliver our Educate for Nature programme.
Apply now
The specific skills required are organisational, computer literacy, time management, collaboration and knowledge of native flora and fauna.
Please submit your CV and cover letter to chairperson@wrt.org.nz by 26 January 2025 For the Job Description please visit www.wrtqt.org.nz
We are looking for:
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
jobfix.co.nz
CAFE ALLROUNDERS (full time)
SANDWICH MAKER/ KITCHENHAND (full or part time) COOK (part time)
Hours negotiable - good pay and perks. Contact Ed at: odelaycafe@yahoo.co.nz or call 021 280 2425
We are hiring!!!
Balls and Bangles are looking for people to join their team!
We are on the hunt for FOH/Baristas/Duty Managers
This person will need to be an all rounder and enjoy working in a fast paced environment. Must be reliable, a good team player and have a fun can-do attitude.
Full time hours , daytime shifts, staff meals and you get to be a part of the best team in Queenstown! Ideally available for an immediate start with a commitment of 6 months or more. Current work visa essential.
To apply, drop into our Shotover St store or email your CV to ballsandbanglesjobs@gmail.com
Birdwoods Gallery in Arrowtown is looking for a gallery assistant for 2-3 days a week.
We are searching for a hardworking, reliable person with an eye for detail and an interest in art and design. Retail experience preferred but not required. We are a small gallery that o ers a range of artwork from around the world.
The successful applicant will be working closely with the gallery owner and other gallery sta so excellent communication skills are required.
Please send your CV to: arrowtown@birdwoods.nz
Sales Professional Full time
$28 – $30 per hour
We're Looking For:
• Individuals with a strong passion for luxury sales.
• Previous experience working in sales or customer service.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Responsible and reliable, seeking long-term employment.
Please send your CV to Info@LaPerle.co.nz or call 03 442 5851
We are seeking hospitality professionals who value a high-performing culture, flexible working arrangements, work-life balance and a caring work environment to join our team in the following roles:
• Room Attendant
• Duty Manager
• Food and Beverage Attendant
Benefits and Rewards
• Starting rate $25.50/hour-$31/hour
• Flexible Work Options available
• Heavily Discounted Food and Beverage
• Well-being initiatives
• IHG Room Discounts at over 6,000 hotels worldwide!
When you're a part of IHG, you're more than your job title. And that's what we love – the individual talents, interests and dreams that make you who you are.
Please email your resume at manager@holidayinnqueenstown.co.nz
Paper Plus Queenstown Airport is looking for a fun, reliable and responsible person to join our team. Retail experience is a plus, but not necessary. It is important you are able to work in a busy team environment. The role is five consecutive days a week including weekends.
If you think this sounds like you, please send your CV to queenstownairport@paperplus.co.nz
EXPERIENCED GARDENER
Mountain Landscaping & Maintenance is looking for a full time gardener to work as part of a small team maintaining a range of 50+ properties to the highest standard. Experience preferred in pruning, weed control, power tool use and plant knowledge.
Competitive pay rates, full training & PPE provided.
A NZ work visa and current drivers license are essential. Immediate start
Please email your CV and references to roy@mountainmaintenance.co.nz
