Of the 15 Fast-Track projects across Otago, nine are earmarked for Queenstown, and it’s important they are factored into other plans for our fast-growing town.
I raised concern about the cumulative effects of Fast-Track projects in my three-minutes of allocated time at a recent Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) Planning & Strategy meeting. I emphasised the need for QLDC to stand up for their district and spatial planning and use this information to inform the Expert Panels.
As the Fast-Track process greatly limits the chance for locals to have a say, and the environment is also not considered, it is terrifying to think there’s only 20 days for regional authorities like QLDC, ORC, iwi and adjacent landowners to provide comment.
Environmental impacts weren’t considered when these Fast-Tracks were greenlighted and the cumulative effects of multiple Fast-Tracks haven’t either. They also aren’t likely to be considered either as each project has an Expert Panel appointed for it and they review projects independently, not as a whole.
With how things currently are in Queenstown, with overflowing sewerage treatment plants and traffic jams along Ladies Mile, it is clear our infrastructure is at its limits. I think an appropriate use of Fast-Track would be to expedite regional infrastructure, essential services and transportation. Instead, it’s being used for opportunistic growth and growth for the sake of growth.
The QLDC, CODC, ORC Regional Deal Strategic Framework was released last week and it states the “QLDC District Plan has enough zoned capacity to meet projected growth for the next 30+ years” and that “there is significant untapped potential in already zoned and serviced areas”.
So, why are we bringing in 7,000+ residences via Fast-Track in addition to the existing 7,000 residences already approved at Silver Creek, Waipuna Rise, Homestead Bay, Park Ridge, Kingston Village and Ladies Mile?
The cost of building these Fast-Track subdivisions will be substantial and who will pay for the necessary new or upgraded infrastructure? The cost is likely to flow onto the section costs removing the ‘affordable housing’ claim.
Some of these Fast-Tracks shouldn’t be even considered due to environmental impacts, for instance Coronet Village. A Coronet Peak gondola is proposed and has been justified by 780 residences and two schools but it’s in the headwaters of Lake Hayes, adjacent to ONL on one side and wetland on the other.
My hope is that QLDC and others will ensure the Expert Panels see the bigger picture before they make decisions on these Fast-Tracks. We often hear how our district is a tourism highlight but Fast-Track could be a serious threat to this claim, our community wellbeing and economic viability.
James Hall - Malaghans Valley Protection Society Chairman
Queenstown Car Boot Sale organiser Vicki Britnell, centre, was delighted with a fantastic turn out at Country Lane on Sunday, with more than 30 stall holders and hundreds of bargain hunters. Pictured with Josefiina Pirhonen, left, and Jodi Cordell, she hopes it will become a monthly event.
Big increase in Queenstown women seeking fertility support
by Sue Fea
There’s been a dramatic almost 120% increase in Queenstown women seeking help with fertility issues, from their late 20s through to their mid-40s, up from an estimated 142 at the end of 2023 to 311 at the end of last year.
Fertility NZ CEO Lydia Hemingway says more and more women are seeking help in the south and there’s been a big influx in women using their online support. “We’ve had to change how we do things with more focus online with a younger generation in their 20s and 30s seeking help.”
Queenstown is one of the few centres that has an in-person support group and coordinator Eva Hooper says it’s a “huge connector” with the challenge of travelling to Dunedin for treatment, the unpredictability of that, and time off work.
“It’s a massive help being able to have that emotional support and ask questions like how to handle difficult conversations with employers.”
The support’s vital for migrant women and those from overseas with family and friends so far away, she says.
In certain cultures, anything related to sex is taboo so these women too are seeking information and help.
It’s becoming harder to start families financially as well with some women waiting until they own a house, or until their career is further ahead, concerned that they’re going to run into difficulty with age, Hemingway says.
“It’s certainly tough, particularly with all the struggles people are going through with housing and jobs.”
One in four people in NZ are affected by infertility and in 50% of cases it’s the male not the female who is infertile while some infertility is merely unexplained, she says.
Medical infertility is the main issue, but more people are seeking help with ‘social infertility’ which has no medical reason, Hemingway says.
This includes single women who haven’t found a suitable partner, or the likes of same sex couples who don’t have the natural attributes to produce a child
and can’t find sperm donors or surrogates.
Fertility treatment can be publicly funded, depending on individual circumstances, but long waiting lists apply, and women with a high BMI don’t meet the criteria for that.
Egg freezing - ‘fertility preservation’, is becoming more prevalent. “More and more we’re seeing women in their late 20s or early 30s asking about this, even people in relationships who aren’t ready to have a child yet,” she says.
This can be hard on the body, due to hormone treatment, and the wallet, starting at just over $13,000, all privately funded.
“Most people we help are wanting a baby now though and we’re supporting them month after month.”
The Queenstown Fertility Support group meets at 7pm on the second Monday of each month at Engage Safety, 18 Glenda Drive, Frankton. Join the Facebook group for events and information. Ph: 0800 333 3306 or see: queenstownsupport@fertilitynz.org.nz fertilitynz.org.nz/
Blaze in the ‘burbs
by Paul Taylor
Firefighters extinguished a large scrub fire on a hillside between three Queenstown suburbs on Sunday afternoon.
Crews from Frankton, Queenstown and Arrowtown were called to the blaze near Lake Hayes Estate, Shotover Country and Kawarau Heights shortly after 3pm.
The fire had taken hold on the hillside next to a walking track and threatened to spread to nearby properties.
But it was brought under control in under 25 minutes from the call. There were no injuries reported.
Frankton Station Officer Karl Argyle was one of the first one the scene.
“The crews got it under control pretty quickly and have done a great job. I’d say it’s about 40sqm but that’s a guess,” he says.
“It was pretty close to property on the back edge, the eastern front, and there’s the subdivisions’ water tanks, the main gas line and electricity transmission lines nearby, so plenty of hazards.”
Around 25 firefighters were on scene within minutes, tackling the fire with 15 hoses from several fire engines.
Blythe Thompson and Alex Hill, who live in one of the houses at the bottom of the hill close to the fire, watched the flames spread down the hill. Hill grabbed a hose to spray down the fences but says the firefighters were quickly on the scene.
“We thought it was a possibility it might spread to our house, and it was close to one of our neighbours’. We closed all our windows to stop the smoke and I grabbed the hose.
“I was spraying, and the fire was right there, then the firefighters came through and woosh, it was gone. They did a bloody good job.”
Argyle says the cause of the blaze is not yet known, although will be investigated. It was the second grass fire of the weekend, with another at Lakeside Estates on Saturday night.
Community backs volunteer firefighter
by Paul Taylor
Kingston’s former fire brigade chief Peter Ottley says he’s overwhelmed by the support he’s received since revealing his struggles with ACC.
Ottley, a volunteer firefighter for 13 years, was diagnosed with PTSD after attending a horrific fatal crash just before Christmas.
He’s taken time off from his regular full-time job with Carters as he recovers from the psychological impact of what he saw at that crash and more than a dozen other serious incidents over the years.
But when he asked the insurer for financial support, his claim was denied as ACC will only cover mental injury claims if they are related to an incident at paid work, or to a physical injury.
Ottley spoke out in the Lakes Weekly Bulletin two weeks ago, with the aim to highlight the fact New Zealand’s nearly 12,000 volunteer firefighters are not covered for psychological trauma.
And he says he’s received a phenomenal amount of support from his Kingston community, his employer, doctor, FENZ, and the wider Queenstown community.
“It’s been overwhelming really, in a good way,” Ottley says. “We’ve had people down the street cooking us meals for instance, and one of the farmers dropped off ten cubic metres of firewood. There’s been lots of support from people I’ve spoken to and also online.
“Hopefully it raises some awareness, and the rules can be changed. We know how it works and that nothing will happen in the short term, but sometime in the future maybe it will help to get volunteers covered.”
Charlie Le Couteur, founder of the local branch of firefighters motorbike club Red Knights, called Ottley personally to offer his support, donating $500 from club funds to help him out.
Carters have also agreed to keep his job open until he returns, which means he’ll qualify for the company insurance scheme.
And his doctor has written to FENZ and directly to the ACC Minister Andrew Bayly, who told LWB two weeks ago “currently, there are no plans to extend ACC’s work-related cover to include volunteers”.
His doctor says the rule that ACC will only cover a mental injury claim for volunteers if linked to a physical injury “seems perverse and obstructive logic”.
“As you are currently responsible for the ACC portfolio I seek your support to get this injustice fixed for my patient, and for the many other selfless and brave Kiwis working in this role,” the doctor’s letter reads.
Meanwhile, FENZ regional wellbeing advisor Kris Kennett says the organisation is also pushing for change, both for volunteers and paid firefighters.
“There’s a whole lot of ACC legislation we’re trying to get changed, along with the United Fire Brigades’ Association and others,” Kennett says. “It’s historic and needs to be corrected, like it has been in other places, such as Australia.
“One issue is ACC is not recognising the accumulation of trauma, they basically want to see one single event that has caused significant trauma, but that’s just not realistic. We see horrible things on a weekly and sometimes daily basis. They’re also not recognising secondary trauma, for our call centre staff for example.”
Kennett says he’s seen significant change over the past three years in attitudes towards mental health, though, both within FENZ and New Zealand as a whole.
“The mentality of ‘suck it up’, ‘carry on’, ‘she’ll be right’, has changed across organisations and culture. It is more acceptable to reach out for help. That takes vulnerability,” he says.
“The easy option is shutting up and not doing or saying anything. That used to be seen as tough, but that’s not strength. It takes real strength to talk to others, and to check on each other.”
Fireys were quick to extinguish the dangerous blaze
The fire takes hold
Blythe Thompson and Alex Hill
Firey Peter Ottley
WANAKA A&P SHOW SPECIAL
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CRIMELINE
Drug arrest at Queenstown Airport
by Sue Fea
Two Dunedin men are facing charges relating to importing ecstasy and ketamine through Queenstown Airport.
Police arrested a 23-year-old man at the airport on Friday afternoon, after a joint operation with New Zealand Customs which began in mid-January.
Officers also swooped on a 30-year-old man in Christchurch, who was arrested after a vehicle stop.
Two search warrants were then executed at Dunedin addresses, where police say a number of items of interest were found.
Southern District Crime Manager Detective Inspector Shona Low says both men appeared in court on Saturday, 22 February, charged with multiple importations, and had their bail opposed.
“This is an example of the strong partnership Police shares with New Zealand Customs when it comes to investigating the importation of illegal drugs into the country,” Show says.
“In executing these search warrants and arresting those we believe are responsible, we’ve made a significant impact in terms of reducing the harm that the drug trade causes within our communities.
“We know this won’t stop the supply of drugs, or others from trying to profit from addiction, but it will put a noticeable dent in the availability of illegal drugs in the district.”
Police did not detail the quantity of the class B controlled drug ecstasy and the class C controlled drug Ketamine, but Customs Investigations manager Dominic Adams says they were “significant intercepts”.
“We believe this influx of drugs were intended for the local community in the South Island, where they would have caused considerable harm,” Adams says.
“Customs works really closely with Police districts up and down the country, and in this case we were able to assist Dunedin Police with information and investigative support which has resulted in today’s [Friday] arrests.”
Burglars on the rampage
Property thefts continue across the Whakatipu Basin with more than $40,000 worth of tradies’ tools stolen, a holiday home cleared out and even a barbecue pinched.
Some $25,000 of tools were stolen from a garage on Andrews Road, Queenstown Hill, on Valentine’s Day, 14 February, prompting an appeal for any nearby residents who might have CCTV footage.
A couple of nights before that, on Tuesday, 11 February, almost $17,000 worth of tools were stolen from a ute parked outside a home in Bridesdale Drive, Lake Hayes Estate. The victim shared a long list of Milwaukee tools stolen from his ute tray and also called for any neighbourhood CCTV footage. And power tools and batteries were stolen from another tradie’s vehicle about 400m away on Quarry Place, sometime between 10 and 15 February.
Constable Amanda Shute says anyone purchasing tools via online sites like Facebook Marketplace and other trading sites needs to be “vigilant about the origin of those tools”.
“Lock your doors and remove any valuables from vehicles,” Shute says. Household items worth $2500 were cleaned out from an Arrowtown holiday home sometime between 1 and 6 February.
Everything from couches to cutlery were stolen in that burglary, while another Arrowtown resident posted on social media that his barbecue had been stolen from his front deck in full street view.
Call the Crime Reporting Line 105 to report any thefts, or online at www. police.govt.nz
Read more on lwb.co.nz and the Queenstown App.
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
COMMUNITY NOTES
Closest to the Pin charity fundraiser
Rate your golf skills?
Queenstown spectators can have a crack at the Closest to the Pin charity fundraiser during the final two days of the 104th New Zealand Open, at Arrowtown’s Millbrook Resort.
The fundraiser will be held on the ninth hole of Millbrook’s Remarkables course, between noon and 4pm on Saturday and Sunday, 1 and 2 March, with a daily cash prize of $3,000.
Anyone keen to have a shot will need to make a donation to the Lakes District Air Rescue Trust (LDART) in return for two attempts at hitting a golf ball closest to the pin, from a distance of around 125 metres.
It’s open to all and the person who records the ‘Closest to the Pin’ shot during each day of the competition will take home $3,000 prize money, provided by sponsors by Craigs Investment Partners.
Established in 1991, the LDART supports operators of emergency rescue helicopters across some of NZ’s wildest and remotest country.
LDART Chairman Jules Tapper says the Trust is extremely grateful to Craigs Investment Partners for picking them as the chosen charity.
“Last year, 1107 missions of assistance were conducted from bases at Queenstown and Te Anau,” he says. “Missions are increasing annually as more and more people explore the great outdoors and our population increases.
“With our large area of operations, community support is continuously needed to supply the services and equipment provided. The operation has never been fully funded by the Government agencies that call it out, so additional community funding is essential.
“Thank you to all who have contributed to this worthwhile cause.”
Craigs Head of Private Wealth and Markets, Jeremy Williamson, says the fundraiser aligns well with the company’s values.
STUDIO YAYOI: PILATES | STRENGTH | CONDITIONING
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Studio Yayoi offers small community group classes combining classical and contemporary Pilates and strength exercises, ensuring progressions and regressions to suit all abilities. Join us in a beautiful encouraging space where we sculpt lengthen, find balance, and revitalise both mind and body. yayoi@studioyayoi.com | 02040691973
“Connecting with and supporting the communities we serve nationwide is hugely important to us,” he says.
“What better way to support the Lakes District community than by supporting the important services provided by the Lakes District Air Resue Trust through our Closest to Pin competition at the New Zealand Open.
“All donations generated from the competition go directly to LDART to benefit this important local need, so we hope to see as many people as possible dipping into their pockets and joining us for this ‘golf for good’ initiative.”
Find more info at nzopen.com/tournament-info/spectator-info/closest-tothe-pin/
QUEENSTOWN DHARMA CENTRE, 12 LAKE ST
TUE (25 Feb) @ 6.30pm, Nurturing Peace with Grant Rix SUN (2 Mar) @ 10am, ‘Cultivating Awareness Practice’ followed by ‘Social Sunday’
All are welcome.
Donations for the teacher/centre are gratefully accepted. See www.dharmacentre.org.nz / FB
11 Great Runs for KiwiHarvest
by Jessica Allen
Ben Gatting is gearing up to defend his Motatapu Trail Marathon title this weekend. He’s been busy in the lead up, running all 11 Great Walks in 11 days, raising funds for KiwiHarvest and spreading awareness for the incredible charity that he has been involved in over 2024.
Setting off on Waitangi Day with the Humpridge Track, Gatting wrapped up with Lake Waikaremoana on Sunday, 16 February. The iconic Motatapu course is set against a stunning backdrop, which will be the cherry on top of a long lists of runs. He explains that one of the most challenging parts of this epic mission was the planning, as opposed to the actual running.
“I started off with a big Google Sheet and I just went step by step from there,” Gatting says. “I’d say there was a real focus on transport – there’s a big drive between the Routeburn and Punakaiki, about nine hours up the West Coast, so accounting for that and then getting up to the North Island to do the three walks, which was a case of flying from Nelson to Auckland.”
Getting from point A to B in time, trying to squeeze in meals and making sure a run could be completed each day was logistically challenging, but it was all worth it for Gatting, who really enjoyed himself. He unfortunately sprained his ankle along the way, so is on a regime of rest and recovery, hoping to be able to make it to the start line.
“There were hard times, pushing through some of the later stages of the runs, but ultimately I did love the whole experience, especially because they’re such beautiful trails – they’re all great walks for a reason. I really had to stop and pinch myself to take it in.”
Beyond Gatting’s event at Motatapu – the trail marathon – the event also offers a number of different running and cycling events. Gemma Peskett is the race director and co-owner of the Motatapu event, she and the team have been busily preparing these past few weeks and are looking forward to welcoming all athletes on the day. The valley is only open to event participants.
“This is your once-a-year chance to get through there,” Peskett says. “It is absolutely stunning. You can be racing it as an elite athlete or you can just cruise through there on your bike. It’s a pretty achievable course. If you’re not keen on racing, we’re still looking for volunteers and it’s a great thing to be a
part of. It’s so inspiring – there’s lots of people out there achieving goals, and as a volunteer helping out, it’s really rewarding.”
Gatting wanted to raise money for KiwiHarvest as he’s been working with them for a while and seen first-hand “the pretty epic work they do with sometimes limited resources.” The charity takes food that would otherwise go to landfill and redistributes it to people and families in need. His goal was to raise $20k and at the time of writing this article, he’s almost hit that target – now he’s hoping to get beyond that.
“The more resources and money they have at hand, the more they’re going to be able to promote that change.”
You can donate to Ben’s Givealittle page here givealittle.co.nz/fundraiser/11in-11-for-kiwiharvest – it will close soon, so be sure to get in quick. Motatapu will take place this Saturday, 1 March, with all races finishing at Wilcox Green in Arrowtown. Supporters are encouraged, so swing by and cheer on the participants, and they’re still accepting volunteers if you’d like to help out.
EasyAdmin Queenstown
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Monthly Column
Joseph Mooney MP for
Southland
My month has been a busy one including attending Waitangi Day in Queenstown, hosted by the Queenstown Lakes District Council and Kāi Tahu - Kā Papatipu Runaka. It was a great event and highlighted the deep connections and diverse community we are fortunate to have in our region.
I was also able to enjoy a day at the Natural Selection Tour on Mt Dewar and it was thrilling to see the world’s best male and female mountain bike riders competing alongside our abundant local talent. Todd Barber, the founder of Redbull Rampage, the biggest big mountain bike event on the planet, told me Queenstown is one of the top three mountain biking spots in the world.
I love to ride in the Queenstown hills myself, and when I do I often stop to pull out wilding pines beside the trail. Wildings are a significant issue for our region so I am pleased to see the recent announcement that Government is investing $30 million from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy to fund more than a dozen projects to boost biodiversity and the tourist economy.
Part of this funding is for stopping and removing wilding pines from our iconic landscapes. Tourism is a crucial economic driver, and nature is our biggest draw card for international tourists. Investing in conservation tourism is a win-win.
The Government is very focussed on growing our economy and Queenstown Lakes is already punching above its weight. Since 2000, 50% of the Otago Region’s GDP growth came from Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes. The Government’s Regional Deals framework offers an opportunity to address this growth and subsequent infrastructure needs in a way that can make a powerful change for our region.
Growth in New Zealand’s regions has a huge part to play in strengthening the economy so Kiwis can enjoy better public services, infrastructure, and overall prosperity. Last week I met with the Queenstown Chamber of Commerce where we discussed the joint proposal of the Queenstown Lakes District Council, Central Otago District Council and Otago Regional Council for the Government’s Regional Deal programme.
Their high quality, comprehensive proposal outlines our region’s significant growth projections and recommends ways Central and Local Government can better work together to overcome the challenges that come with expected expansion for inland Otago.
Sectors such as transport, health and infrastructure are covered in the proposal, which if agreed to by councillors will soon be submitted for consideration.
It is really encouraging to see our councils working together to present such a strong plan. The Government’s intention is to have the first Regional Deal concluded by the end of 2025, with three deals expected to be in place by October 2026.
Make Cancer Easier afternoon tea
GOINGS ON ABOUT
EVENTS - MUSIC - ART THEATRE - AT THE GALLERIES
WORKSHOP
Queenstown Women in Tech Workshops
This inspiring Women in Tech event includes your choice of two engaging workshops – Introduction to AI and Media Training. In the Introduction to AI you’ll learn practical ways you can leverage AI to work smarter and grow your value, led by experts from QRC and Ali from LawVu. In the Media Training workshop you’ll learn how to be a pro in front of the camera and take the pain points out of presenting, with guidance from Erin Jackson and Jenni Powell. You’ll need to pre-register for this event.
A monthly open mic night for original music and spoken word. Head over and share your creativity or sit back and enjoy the wealth of talent the Southern Lakes has to offer. Last Thursday of every month, hosted by local folktronica duo Choice (aka Musicbychoice). Admision is free and performers receive a free Altitude Brewing beer.
When: Thursday, 27 February, 8pm – 10pm
Where: Sherwood, 554 Frankton Road, Queenstown
CHARITY
Love Grace Handbag Appeal New Zealand
Grace Millane was tragically murdered whilst travelling in New Zealand in December 2018. The handbag appeal was set up by her family and friends as a legacy in Grace Millane’s name to help women that have been affected by domestic violence. There are now collection points set up around New Zealand where you can donate a handbag and fill it with useful items for women in need. Items you could include toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, and shower gel. Ray White in Queenstown and Arrowtown, and Century 21 in Wānaka are accepting donations. Head to facebook.com/lovegracenz to see a full list of basic, extra and luxury items that can be included, and for drop off locations.
When: Drop-offs accepted until Wednesday, 8 March
Where: Various locations including Ray White in Queenstown and Arrowtown
Cromwell Museum Brushes to Brushes
Brushes to Brushes is an exhibition of paintings and drawings by Invercargill-born Bruce Aitken. During the mid-80s he spent a lot of time visiting Cromwell, where he started painting landscapes of the area. He came to visit the region again in 2024 and this is where the painting bug hit him once more, resulting in the exhibition. It’s a nod to his career in music, using drumsticks and drum brushes, and his lifelong use of brushes for his art. The exhibition will feature completed paintings of the area including Cromwell, Banockburn, Mt Pisa, Duffers, Lowburn and Nevis Valley – it’s the first time he’s worked with oils since 1988.
When: On until Thursday, 27 February, 10am – 4pm
Where: Cromwell Museum, 46 The Mall, Cromwell
Wānaka Songwriting Workshop
Canadian therapeutic recreation specialist and singer-songwriter Rachel Raditz will host a creative/ songwriting course on Mondays at the Wānaka Arts Centre. Although music is a basis for this class, anyone looking to discover their self-expression through creative writing (D&D, poetry, songwriting, short stories, etc.) would benefit. Whether you are looking to place your music on streaming platforms, publish a poetry novel, or simply try something new and meet friendly creative people, they’re here to support you through your journey. Please bring a pen and paper, it’s optional to bring an instrument/other creative tool.
When: Monday, 3 and 10 March, 7pm – 8.30pm
Where: Wānaka Arts Centre, 13 Brownston Street, Wānaka
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
An Evening of Whisky in The Barrel Room
EVENT
Step into the warm and intimate setting of The Barrel Room for an exclusive evening of whisky appreciation, guided by Connal Mackenzie, Sales Director of Adelphi and Ardnamurchan Distillery. Having journeyed from Scotland to share his expertise, Connal brings with him an exceptional selection of drams from the esteemed Adelphi independent bottlers and the award-winning Ardnamurchan Distillery. This curated tasting will feature special cask samples, including a rare DramFest 2025 exclusive bottling, alongside thoughtfully paired platters to enhance the experience. Limited seats available, so secure your seats in advance.
When: Tuesday, 4 March, 7pm
Where: The Barrel Room, Ayrburn, 1 Ayr Avenue, Arrowtown
Southern Lakes Home & Garden Show
It’s all about fresh ideas and inspiration at the all-new Southern Lakes Home & Garden Show. Enjoy exclusive show specials, giveaways and expert advice all in one easy location. There will be a wonderful range of exhibitors, whether you have a project on the go or are just looking for an enjoyable day out, there is something for everyone. Bring along your plans, questions and ideas, check out free activities for the kids, enter to win a major show prize, enjoy good food and great coffee. Better still, it’s all under the one roof and there’s free parking.
& Sat LIVE MUSIC (MOJO) SHAY & PEARLY 7pm Plus DJ 10pm-2am $11 Margaritas and Espressos Hand mixed (not tap) All Day Every Day SKY SPORTS Super Rugby NRL
Arts+Culture
From painter to drummer and back again
by Jessica Allen
The Brushes to Brushes exhibition opened recently at Cromwell Museum, featuring 16 paintings from Bruce Aitken. The Invercargill-born drummer and artist has a special place in his heart for Otago and has recently relocated to Cromwell and rediscovered his love of painting.
Aitken describes himself as blessed when it comes to his skills. He started drawing and painting when he was very young and by the time he was in high school he was excited to take art as his main subject.
“I was under the tutorage of the art teacher at Southland Boys High School, Patricia Wilson. She was a really good artist from the Southland/Invercargill region,” Aitken says. “She gave us ideas and my memories are that she would just encourage us to do what we felt, and then she would come along and make suggestions. That’s about the only training I’ve ever had, as far as I can recall.”
He developed a special relationship with our region as he would regularly visit a family-friend’s farm in Queensbury. He also spend Christmases in Queenstown, camping at the bottom of what is now the Skyline gondola.
During the tail end of his school years his family moved up to Wellington where Aitken discovered art was a subject that people did if they didn’t want to do anything else. He didn’t let this discourage him, and all the while was playing music, particularly drums. His music career took him on tours, mostly around the greater Wellington region at that time, as he painted in between gigs.
“Once the 80s came along I started to spend quite a bit of time back in the South Island, and spent a lot of time down in Cromwell. When I came down here I started painting again quite often.”
Initially Aitken didn’t really like oil painting – he didn’t understand them. His focus was on watercolours and he started selling them in a local shop. He then went back into music, putting the brushes down and headed over to Melbourne, then lived in Canada for 10 years.
Fast forward to Covid when he was living in Sydney and started getting back into art – drawing with pencil and charcoal. He worked on a project called Legends of New Zealand Music, which is now up on his website.
“A year ago I came over to visit friends in Cromwell and, I don’t know, something happened, and I thought ‘oh wow, look at all this scenery,’ and it brought back so many memories, because it’s just such a very special place
artworks – he didn’t recognise them.
Bannockburn Church, and I said ‘well, who did that?’ He said ‘Bruce, you did that.’ I had a look and there was my name, and I don’t remember painting it.” It was a really good painting – he was surprised and motivated to do it, and do it better. He was visiting for three weeks and ended up taking over 2,000 photos, inspired to get back into it and do an exhibition in Sydney. He went back, sold his equipment and dedicated all his time to painting non-stop. Eight artworks were created in this time, and it wasn’t long until the obvious decision to relocate here came about.
“It’s changed my life, for the better too, I might add. It’s so good to be living back in New Zealand and it’s extremely good living in Central Otago, that’s for sure.”
The paintings continued and they’re what make up the current exhibition. It’s called Brushes to Brushes as a nod to his time in music – switching out paint brushes for drum brushes and vice versa. He’s often asked questions about his process or how he achieved something, but Aitken says he doesn’t always know what the answer is.
At this time, some people Aitken was visiting pulled out some of his old “It was a drawing I’d done of their house back in the 80s, and I remembered doing that. Then he handed me another one – it was an oil painting of the for me. Always has been, always will be.”
“It just comes out and that comes out as good. I don’t have any logical reason as to why, all I know is that I can do it and I really love doing it and this is now what I’m doing. I’m grateful that I’ve been given this opportunity to have the exhibition.”
Brushes to Brushes will run at Cromwell Museum until this Thursday, 27 February. You can find out more information about Bruce, check out the paintings included in the exhibition and keep informed with what he’s doing at dbaart.com
Bruce Aitken holds Old Chinese Store Ruins on Mt Pisa Station, with Cromwell Museum Manager Jennifer Hay
My Life Story
by Sue Fea
RICHARD HANNING
From legendary roots to hotel hoots
His name may have been synonymous with Queenstown’s renowned Gourmet Express Restaurant for 25 years, but Richard Hanning also worked his way up through the ranks as a teenage apprentice for leading national hotel chains.
He’s survived mafia surveillance and threats as hotel house manager in Auckland, forced to sack a few light-fi ngered staff, including a chef siphoning off chickens to raffl e at the pub. Richard learned fast, earning his fi rst general manager’s role at Vacation Hotel Queenstown in 1978, fresh from being house manager at Vacation Frankton, landing him back among legendary family roots.
The grandson of John(‘Jubilee’) McBride, of McBride Street fame, who’d owned the General Merchant Store, Richard’s parents moved to Riverton, then Invercargill where he was born in 1953.
One of nine kids, holidays and some early schooling were spent in Queenstown at St Joseph’s while his mum cared for his well-known Auntie Fran (Frances McBride) who’d been unwell.
“We’d set up forts on Queenstown Hill and make stone rifl es, causing havoc with sightseeing tourists, until the local cop snuck up behind us once and gave us a dressing down,” Richard grins.
Rugby and cricket were big before Richard, who loved cooking, joined THC as a trainee manager in Milford Sound at 16. It was an education with the ‘hardy drinker’ fi shermen packing into the public bar during bad weather. “They’d then try to step from the wharf back onto their boats and land in the water.”
He’d missed the 15-year-old cut off for apprentice chefs but was soon packing his Mini with fresh rhubarb from the Hanning’s Invercargill garden for the delighted Milford chef, in exchange for the equivalent weight in crayfi sh. He’d arrive, rhubarb protruding from his car windows. Practical jokes were the norm – crumbed Wettex cloth replacing schnitzel on the Milford staff menu. Barely 18, Richard copied the head chef once, dabbing oil beneath the burner on the big diesel stove. “I blew the top plate off the stove hitting the roof!”
From fl ights to Quintin Lodge on the Milford Track with supplies to pickups at Sandfl y Bay doused in Dimp, it was then on to London City and Guilds chef exams in Dunedin, before a stint at THC Waitangi where Richard clocked a 22-hour shift one New Year’s Day. Kenny Rogers and the First Edition once partied late in their staff quarters, Richard sharing a whisky with Kenny.
THC’s Wairakei Resort followed before Richard, close to burnout, took leave to Auckland, working at the prestigious ‘Michael’s Caprice’ on the North Shore with legendary, high-end European chef Michael Marcinkowski – an Auschwitz survivor. “Rolls Royces dropped our very affl uent customers to the door. We made some good tips,” he says. A chance meeting then scored him a job at Logan Park Vacation Hotel in Auckland’s Greenlane.
Richard became a marked man after dismissing a female staff member. “Her boyfriend was in the local mafia and threatened me in the toilets, saying, ‘She’ll be back in tomorrow night’.” Police fi les showed he was a hit man. “The night porter would give me the heads up as he’d be waiting outside, and I’d have to stay in the hotel.”
Entertainment was big during a stint in Rotorua, the Maori Volcanics and Billy T. James drawing the crowds.
House manager at Vacation Hotel Frankton, Richard turned those events skills to Ski Week, attracting big gigs, and joining early founders of the Queenstown Winter Festival in 1975.
He soon scored his fi rst general manager’s role at Vacation Queenstown. Vacation always ran the festival Swiss Night, popular with ski instructors. Richard was a representative on the National Travel Association’s inaugural board and on the Queenstown Promotion Board, then DQ, for many years.
In 1981 he and Vacation chef Josef Kobele opened Queenstown’s fi rst American-style diner Gourmet Express, its pancakes ($2.95) and Miner’s Breakfasts ($3.95) an instant success. In three months, we’d turned over what we’d budgeted for with the bank for a year.”
Invited by Mount Cook managing director Philip Phillips to establish the Coronet Peak skifi eld restaurants as well, his day began around 4.30am and ended at 11pm. On a US exploration trip with Sugar Robinson, they narrowly escaped an out-of-control semi-trailer unit roaring towards them on an icy Colorado freeway.
Sue and Richard bought Josef and wife Shirley out in 1995, running Gourmet Express for another 14 years – 25 in all – with ‘Billy T’ and Barry Crump big fan regulars.
They became in-demand catering consultants, also catering on movie sets, and sponsoring many community events.
Teaming with Kawarau Jet for Gourmet Express kids’ birthday parties – a jetboat ride thrown in, they extended this offer to local schools for free. Richard also served on the St Joseph’s School board for nine years.
That community service continued in Dunedin where the Hannings operated 555 on Bayview Motel for 12 years, Richard serving on the Otago Motel Association Board.
Now living near Rangiora, they’re big supporters of Pound Paws Dog Rescue.
Richard and wife Sue, now living near Rangiora
Richard (driving) flying the Gourmet Express flag during a Queenstown Winter Festival parade back in the day
Richard, right, and Josef with their SPHCI Garden Plate Award during their Gourmet Express days
Stanley/Ballarat St intersection & carpark
The Stanley/Ballarat street intersection will be closed until late April for a large stormwater upgrade. This affects bus stops and means the temporary carpark on Stanley St and off-street parking on parts of Ballarat St will be unavailable. The new Arterial Road provides alternative access to/ through town. Don’t forget all Council-owned parking spaces in the town centre are free overnight from 6.00pm-8.00am. Full details at www.qldc.govt.nz/town-centre-arterial-road
Only glass bottles and jars in blue bins
A reminder that your blue glass bin is only for clean glass bottles and jars that once held food or drink. Other items like ceramics and crockery, drinking glasses, lightbulbs, mirrors and heatproof glass like Pyrex go in the red rubbish bin, as they contaminate glass recycling.
Queenstown Multicultural Festival
Join a celebration of culture, community and creativity! Queenstown Multicultural Festival brings together food, performances, workshops and more for a day filled with fun, flavour and unforgettable experiences. Queenstown Events Centre, 15 March from 10.00am-6.00pm. www.queenstownmulticulturalfestival.co.nz
Low Waste Living Workshop
Learn to make simple, eco-friendly cleaning products! This is a Resourceful Communities Event created by Wastebusters, delivered by Sustainable Queenstown and proudly supported by QLDC’s Zero Waste District Programmme. Arrowtown Athenaeum Hall, 5 March from 6.00-8.00pm. Tickets $10 from https://events.humanitix.com
Calling all event organisers
We’re updating our district’s events policy to reflect community views. It’s most relevant to event organisers who request Council funding or want to use the facilities we manage. A copy of the draft policy and how to provide feedback is available at letstalk.qldc.govt.nz
Arts funding available
Got a creative idea or arts project and need funding support? Grants of up to $2,500 are available from the Central Lakes Arts Support Scheme (CLASS). For more info and an application form email jan.maxwell@qldc.govt.nz or visit www.qldc.govt.nz/community-funding
Alice earns two WC podiums
Queenstown’s global ski star Alice Robinson continued her excellent season form with two podiums in FIS Giant Slalom World Cup races in Italy.
The 23-year-old took second place in at the FIS Giant Slalom World Cup held in Sestriere, Italy, on Friday, and then finished third on Saturday, in the second race of the double-header weekend.
Italy’s Federica Brignone took the win in both races, continuing her own career-best form following her win in the World Championships last week.
Robinson earned silver there too, New Zealand’s first ski World Championship medal. The Queenstown skier is, however, leading the FIS Giant Slalom World Cup standings with her more consistent form, skiing her way to a podium in every race.
“It has been a really exciting past month, it’s cool to be leading the GS standings for the first time and a medal at World Champs is just great, so hoping to keep it rolling!” she says.
Norway’s Thea Louise Stjernesund rounded out the podium in third. In the second race, Brignone topped the podium, with Swiss skier Lara GutBehrami second and Robinson third. Robinson says she’s impressed with Brignone’s form and loving the competition.
“She has been on fire across all disciplines, so it is cool that I get to have a fight with her in GS, she is skiing amazing and I am trying my best to keep up!” Robinson will now switch gears and equipment as she heads into the Downhill and Super G World Cup in Kvitfjell, Norway next weekend.
Meanwhile, Wānaka athletes Luca Harrington, 20, and Ben Barclay, 23, also have made history for New Zealand snow sports over the weekend.
The two freeskiers finished in second and third place respectively at the FIS Freeski Slopestyle World Cup in Canada, marking the first time two Kiwi athletes have ever shared a Park & Pipe World Cup podium.
ZQN at the double
Queenstown Airport has launched a new $50,000 community fund, hot on the heels of announcing a $5.2m dividend for major shareholder Queenstown Lakes District Council.
Administered by the Wakatipu Community Foundation, the fund will distribute $50,000 in grants each year, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, to charities and community organisations in Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago.
“As a key gateway to our region, we recognise our responsibility to give back and support the communities that support us,” the airport’s Partnerships and Marketing Manager Vanessa Hartnell says.
“The Queenstown Airport Community Fund is a way for us to invest in local organisations that are making a real difference, ensuring they have the resources they need to thrive.”
This new fund will add to the $150,000 that the airport already contributes through its sponsorships and partnerships programme each year.
Applications are open 3 March to 7 April. Full details at www. wakatipucommuityfoundation.org.
Meanwhile, last week Queenstown Airport Corporation announced its results for the first six months of the financial year, which runs July to June, resulting in a $7m interim dividend to shareholders QLDC and Auckland International Airport.
Sign up and Let’s Talk
Want to make sure your voice is heard on the important decisions that matter to you? Check out our dedicated web portal Let’s Talk. Register and start having your say at letstalk.qldc.govt.nz
www.qldc.govt.nz
Some 1,343,006 passengers passed through the terminal in those six months, up 6%, with particularly strong trans-Tasman numbers. The airport’s revenue rose by 22% and profit jumped up 27%.
“Over the coming years, we will complete the most significant capital investment programme in the airport’s 90-year history,” QAC chairman Simon Flood says.
“A key strategic focus for the board of directors and executive team is the delivery of the Queenstown Airport Master Plan. Detailed development and organisational planning are under way. Capital investment planning, procurement, and programme delivery will continue in sequenced stages.”
Read more on lwb.co.nz and the Queenstown App
From left, Alice Robinson, Federica Brignone, and Thea Louise Stjernesund on the FIS Giant Slalom World Cup podium, first race. Photo: Credit Christophe Pallot / Agence Zoom
QLDC Libraries
Librarian Profile
Lakes Weekly Bulletin and Queenstown Lakes Libraries are profiling our librarians. This month we are profiling Sinéad Keegan, who is the team leader’s librarian.
Ten years ago, I arrived in Queenstown for what was meant to be a oneyear adventure. Like so many before me, I quickly fell in love - not just with the scenery but also with the way of life and welcoming community. Somewhere along the way, I met my partner, Sean, and Queenstown became home.
Originally from Dublin, I’ve always been a book lover, but funnily enough, I was never much of a library user growing up. I suppose I never truly understood what libraries had to offer beyond shelves of books. Now, as the Branch Manager for both Frankton and Kingston Libraries, I see them in a completely different light, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of something so special.
Libraries are often thought of as quiet places where people whisper, and librarians enforce the rules with a stern “shh.” But the reality couldn’t be further from the truth. They are vibrant, welcoming spaces, hubs of activity where people of all walks of life come through the doors. Some are here to borrow books, yes, but many come to learn, to connect, or simply to take a moment for themselves.
I was pleasantly surprised by all that libraries offer beyond books. You can check out stargazing kits, bird-watching packs, and games for all ages. There is also a range of digital resources, including eBooks, audiobooks, and online subscriptions. Libraries are filled with opportunities to try something new. Need a moment to clear your head? Join a meditation session. Want to get creative? Try your hand at origami. Not quite up to speed with the latest tech? Book yourself in for a digital appointment.
Book Recommendations:
There’s always something happening, from Storytime for the little ones to workshops and community events bringing people together.
Working in the library feels like I’ve found my space. It’s refreshing to be in a role where I can give back to the community, but I also get so much in return. There’s a real sense of purpose in the little moments - helping someone track down a book they’ll love, guiding them through a tricky tech issue, or just having a bit of craic with regulars. The atmosphere here is warm and welcoming, and every day brings new faces, great chat, and those feelgood moments that make this job so rewarding.
I’ve also been incredibly lucky to join such a passionate and dedicated team who genuinely love what they do. I couldn’t ask for a more supportive group of people to guide me. Their enthusiasm, kindness, and deep knowledge are inspiring, and that energy is felt by everyone who steps through our doors.
To me, a library is a place to be inquisitive, to learn, to grow - a space where people can just be. If you haven’t visited a library in a wee while, I encourage you to pop in. You might be surprised by what you find.
A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini
A powerful tale of love, sacrifice, and resilience, following two Afghan women, Mariam and Laila, whose lives intertwine through war and hardship. Bound by fate and oppression, they find strength in their unbreakable bond.
The Happy Prince by Oscar Wilde
A beautifully bittersweet tale of compassion and sacrifice. Perched above the city, a golden statue of a once-privileged prince watches over the suffering below. With the help of a kind swallow, he gives away his jewels to aid the poor, revealing the true power of love, generosity, and selflessness.
Milk and honey by Rupi
Kaur
A heartfelt poetry collection that explores love, loss, trauma, healing, and femininity. Divided into four sections, each piece takes readers on an emotional journey—unearthing pain, embracing resilience, and celebrating the power of self-discovery.
A timeless and inspiring tale of destiny, dreams, and self-discovery. Santiago, a young shepherd, sets off on a journey to find a hidden treasure, only to realize that the true riches lie within. Along the way, he encounters omens, wisdom, and the power of following one’s heart.
The Queen of Dirt Island by Donal Ryan
A lyrical and deeply moving story of four fierce, unforgettable women bound by blood and resilience in rural Ireland. Through love, loss, and defiance, they carve out their own place in a world that underestimates them, proving that family is not just who you’re born to but who you fight for.
American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins
A gripping and emotional odyssey of survival and hope. When a Mexican mother and her son become targets of cartel violence, they embark on a treacherous journey north, risking everything for a chance at freedom. A harrowing yet powerful story of sacrifice, love, and the human will to endure.
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Kia Ora!
Queenstown goes all-in on Regional Deals
A bed tax, mass gondola transport and new roads, privately-funded public hospitals, an upgraded electricity network, and a supercharged business and tech sector.
Those are some of the grand plans outlined in Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago’s bid for one of Central Government’s Regional Deals.
Details of the landmark bid were released on Thursday, before going to Queenstown Lakes District councillors for approval this Tuesday, ahead of the 28 February submission deadline.
If the National-led Coalition Government choses the region as one of the deal-locations, the bid document will define Queenstown and Central Otago’s future for the next three decades and beyond.
“Prioritising our collective vision is the logical choice to move the dial on New Zealand’s economic growth as the first Regional Deal partner,” Queenstown Lakes Mayor Glyn Lewers says.
“Our part of the country is an economic powerhouse, but there is urgency to address critical infrastructure needs and deliver affordable housing.
“In the past year alone, Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago enabled the third highest number of new dwellings nationally, but demand and prices continue to increase. We continue to grow but we need to grow well to retain and boost what makes our region special.
“It’s also a fantastic opportunity to leverage our combined strengths to improve tourism productivity for the region and for New Zealand.”
Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC), Central Otago District Council (CODC), and Otago Regional Council (ORC) have developed the joint
1. Leverage the visitor economy to boost economic growth
• The plan is to position ‘Otago Central Lakes’ as New Zealand’s international gateway for investment and business
• It recognises that Queenstown and the region is high attractive to ex-pats, digital nomads and business executives
• The aim is to make it easier for them to relocate here, set up business and invest - leveraging the new Active Investor Plus Visa, establishing an Invest NZ / NZTE presence, and potentially creating a Special Economic Zone
• Attract investment and also talent through study and skilled migration schemes, as well as post-visit export sales, potentially all worth $3.6bn
• Accelerate the growth of the tech sector and learning economythrough planning approvals for a commercial technology precinct and university campus, special visas, tax deductions and allowing overseas workers and investors to buy property here (over a certain value). Industry could be worth $1b in 10 years
• More promotion of the film industry, as well as streamlined consents and permits, and funding for tourism technology and data collection
But the plan recognises bums-on-seats tourism is eroding the industry’s social licence
• It calls for more work on Optimal Visitation Models along with the rapid establishment of robust tourism data sets
• The bid warns that locals could take to the streets to protest against tourism, as they have done in Barcelona
• Cardrona Alpine Resort’s dynamic pricing is used as an example of capacity management. Customer satisfaction increased, as did profits by 7%
2. Transform the transport system
• Redesigned transport system based on the integration between road and off-road Mass Rapid Transport - that’s a gondola connecting downtown Queenstown with Frankton and the suburbs beyond
• It would be built through attracting private finance and MRT could yield $37m per year by 2048, with a $5 fare
• Congestion charging and tolls would be introduced - to shift demand and fund infrastructure builds including Arthurs Point Bridge and downtown arterial roads
• Public Private Partnerships for roading and bridges, along with cash from the road charges, the local bed tax and/or International Visitor Levy
proposal under the Regional Deals framework. It’s been worked on by elected members and staff from the respective councils, along with representatives from the private and public sectors and iwi.
• A bus service linking Alexandra, Cromwell, Wānaka and Queenstown
• The bid warns that without change by 2028, “average travel times will match today’s peak”. That means it will take an hour to travel from downtown to Lake Hayes
3. Electrify Otago Central Lakes
• The vision is to be the “most highly electrified, innovative place in NZ”
• Encourage Transpower to create an additional electricity transmission line into Queenstown, affecting Wānaka, Cromwell, and the proposed Santana mine
• Connect Queenstown Lakes to the National Grid, lowering power bills
• Supercharge rooftop solar and battery uptake as national pilot
• Create a Special Economic Zone to pioneer energy innovationincluding making Otago Central Lakes a test ground for electric aviation
• Create a hub for solar and electrification training
4. Leverage private investment to deliver public health services
• Public Private Partnerships to deliver better health services
• These include Otago Central Lakes Hospital in Queenstown, Te Taumata Lakeview Clinic Queenstown, Integrated Care Hub in Wānaka, and Wānaka Health Precinct
• Secure land for future health infrastructure projects
5. Share the value created from growth
• Local visitor user charge - yep, the bed tax is back
• It would be levied through accommodation providers (including Airbnb) for all visitors. A 5% levy would generate $210m over 10 years, covering about 30% costs attributed to visitors
• More tools to enable affordable housing and to enable upfront development contributions from developers
• Update to Accommodation Supplement boundary to reflect existing urban areas
• Direct mining royalties to fund growth infrastructure
SMALL OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE IN CENTRAL QUEENSTOWN.
In parish center of St Peter’s Anglican Church.
Size: 2.9 x 4 meters. Includes 3 storage cupboards. We can supply table & chairs.$150.00 per week, incl power and internet. Call Tina on 021 1563564.
GRISELINIA BROADWAY MINT HEDGE PLANTS
Bushy plants in 6L pots. Sale price of $40pp for orders of over 20. Grown in the region. Phone 0274733146
DIGITISE YOUR MEDIA
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
2010 BMW X1 2.0L
WOF 11.09.25 / REGO 23.08.25
78,000km, serviced regularly, every 10,000km. Great and reliable car. $10,990 ono. Phone/ text: 027 531 0585
Trades & Services
Tuesdays from 7pm
Free entry & great prizes!
www.thepig.co.nz
LWB QUIZ
1. How many hearts does an octopus have?
2. How many letters are there in the English alphabet?
3. How many spice options are there at Nandos?
4. In what year did Coronation Street first air on ITV?
5. In which city do Ross and Rachel get married in Friends?
6. What is the name of the song and the artist for the following lyric: "Maybe I’m foolish, maybe I’m blind, thinking I can see through this and see what’s behind"?
DR COMPOST’S FREE ‘GROW YOUR Own Winter Veggies’ workshop will help you turn your backyard into a productive local food hub. Tuesday, 4th March, 6-8pm. Sherwood, 554 Frankton Road. Tickets available at wastebusters.co.nz/events
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.
JOIN THE QUEENSTOWN PIPE BAND Championship at Queenstown Recreation Grounds on March 1-2! 16 NZ pipe bands compete in an unforgettable display of music and pride!
BROKEN CUPS, BOWLS AND PLATES? Put them in the red rubbish bin. Ceramics, crockery, and drinking glasses contaminate glass recycling. Only clean glass bottles and jars that once contained food or drink go in the blue glass bin. Thanks for recycling with care.
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE ARTS at the heart of the Southern Lakes! Wānaka Festival of Colour, 29 March – 6 April 2025. Explore the programme and join us: www.festivalofcolour.co.nz
REVITALISE YOUR SOIL WHILE DOING your part for the planet! Come along to Dr Compost’s FREE ‘Composting for a Bumper Crop’ workshop. Wednesday, 12th March, 6-8pm. Sherwood, 554 Frankton Road. Tickets available at wastebusters.co.nz/events
8. What does Bridget Jones name her baby in the film series’ third installment?
9. What is rapper P Diddy's real name?
10. What is the official name of the clock tower commonly referred to as Big Ben?
11. In which fictional town was the sitcom Dad's Army set?
12. How many of Henry VIII's wives were called Catherine?
13. In The Princess Diaries, Mia Thermopolis is heir to the throne of which fictional country?
14. In which year did Taylor Swift release her debut single, Tim McGraw?
15. Who was the first actor to play Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films?
16. What actor feels the need, the need for speed, in Top Gun?
Lake Hayes on the mend
by Paul Taylor
A mammoth project to restore the health of Queenstown’s Lake Hayes continues in full flow.
Water quality in the picturesque 280ha lake near Arrowtown has suffered over the years due to a build-up of nutrients from human activity in its vast catchment area, including agricultural fertiliser, residential developments, golf courses, the ski field and hotels.
The removal of the original natural wetlands around the 31m-deep lake also had a massive impact.
By 2020, some 2300 tonnes of sediment was entering Lake Hayes via Mill Creek, bringing with it phosphorus and nutrients, and there were toxic algal blooms most summers, threatening fish stocks and making swimming risky. But over the past five years, a project spearheaded by Friends of Lake Hayes, supported by $4.5 million in Government funding, and delivered by Queenstown iwi charity Mana Tahuna Charitable Trust and many others, has slowly changed the lake’s fortunes.
Restoration work has included creating a 2.8ha wetland at the northern end, installing sediment traps in ponds and streams in the catchment area, as well as other riparian planting, predator control, and improving the outflow.
While the phosphorus will take along time to flush out, and the plantings won’t have an immediate affect, the health of the lake is improving, thanks to the reduction in sediment. In 2024, only 485 tonnes of sediment entered the lake via Mill Creek.
Friends of Lake Hayes chairman Mike Hanff says: “One of the studies told us that ‘if you fix the catchment, you’ll fix the lake’.
“So we’ve been reducing the amount of sediment arriving at the lake, which has been the biggest problem, while Otago Regional Council has worked to improve the outflow at the other end.”
Hanff says the health of the lake held up very well in 2024, given the record rainfall with associated high flows in the second half of the year.
“Visually the north end of the lake has remained clear with lowish levels of algae coming and going through the south half of the lake. I have not heard of any fish kills but there have been some stressed trout congregating in the evening on lower Mill Creek looking for oxygen. On up side there have not been any lake swimming closures either to high e-coli levels or poisonous green-yellow algae for several years now.”
The 485 tonnes of sediment in 2024 was actually up on the two previous years, due to the heavy rain bringing run off challenges, which tested some of the new defences installed in the catchment. Some 600 tonnes of sediment and associated nutrients were removed the sediment traps, after being prevented from entering the lake.
And in terms of outflow, the culvert moved water 80% faster taking with it increased volumes of nutrient out of the system. Meanwhile, the estimated total phosphorus in the lake bed reduced by 70kg.
“It’s a small amount but still a positive effect considering that back in 2002, the total phosphorus in the system increased by an estimated 1600kg,” Hanff says. “We expect lake levels of phosphorus to remain elevated until we manage to flush all the internal load out of the system.”
Despite improvements to the culvert outflows, the extreme rainfall will have caused phosphorus to be dragged back into the lake as the flood waters subsided - it was so wet Queenstown Marathon organisers needed to install temporary metal bridges for runners. Visually, algae volumes were more often seen at this end.
“This was an unusually wet period and DOC are planning on raising the walking track to avoid this flooding in future. The low probability of this type of rainfall and these civil works should keep this from happening in future,” Hanff says.
“The
biggest risk now at the south-end of the lake is future stormwater runoff from Ladies Mile.”
Lake Hayes, including the major native planting project at its northern end
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
jobfix.co.nz
Chef and Front of House sta wanted
Sous Chef:
Chef / Sous Chef or experienced CDP required to join us at the Bannockburn Hotel, an award-winning restaurant in the heart of Central Otago.
We are looking for an enthusiastic, food loving chef to join the team producing great food at an outstanding location in a beautiful part of the world.
We o er a highly competitive salary and incentives combined with a work life balance approach to our rosters.
Working with our existing head chef, you will help drive the production of an ever-changing menu and specials to create an outstanding dining experience. You must be comfortable working in all types of stations from cold apps to grill stations and dessert.
Front of House Team Member:
If you have a passion for people, a bubbly personality and love working in a fast paced team, we need you. Wine knowledge and previous hospitality experience preferred but not essential.
If you are interested in either of these positions, have the right to work in NZ and are able to work evenings and weekends please send your CV to anna@bannockburnhotel.com
Hourly rate to be negociated based on experience.
Tenancy Manager
(Tāhuna Queenstown based)
Do you enjoy doing
good work that has a positive impact on your community?
The Queenstown Lakes Community Housing Trust is a community owned, not-forpro t organisation that provides decent, a ordable housing to our community across the Queenstown Lakes district. We’re a small team of six who are passionate about our mahi. Due to growth, we’re looking for another high-performing individual to join the team as our Queenstown-based Tenancy Manager.
Classed as a Social Landlord, we put people at the heart of what we do. We provide more than just homes, which means our Tenancy Manager role is no ordinary role. Working within the Housing Services team, your work will be varied, stimulating, and rewarding. With equal measures of administration and service delivery, you’ll enjoy the autonomy of managing your own workload, whilst still collaborating with others to problem solve. Our Tenancy Managers ensure the wellbeing of those we work with, through the provision of wraparound support and connecting with other social agencies in the community.
This role provides a high degree of independence and has a strong focus on service delivery. It requires exceptional administrative and computer literacy skills, sound numerical and analytical skills, and high attention to detail. It also requires strong empathy for others and the ability to connect with people of all ages and stages in life.
Alongside the above, you should have:
•At least ve years’ experience in an administrative role
•Experience in a service delivery environment
•Strong numerical skills and pro ciency at using excel
•Full NZ drivers’ licence
•Legal right to work in New Zealand long term.
This is a permanent position, based on 40 hours a week.
If you think this role could be for you, please email corina@qlcht.org.nz for more information.
Applications close 28th February 2025.
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz jobfix.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
Tired of the outdated pay gap? Only two industries in the world pay women considerably more than men.
If you'd like to work in one of them, call Jennifer on 021 895 131 www.bonton.co.nz
CASUAL HOUSEKEEPERS
Required at Ridge Resort, Goldfield Heights.
• Position is for Fridays only
• Work with a lovely team
• Top up your current salary, perfect for locals
If you have:
Experience in hospitality and staff management
A Duty Manager’s certificate (preferable)
A passion for customer service
Availability during daytime, weekends and evenings
And the enthusiasm and vision to take this business to the next level...
Located in the heart of Arrowtown, The Fork and Tap is a vibrant, historic restaurant and gastropub that provides an array of New Zealand craft beers, excellent wine options and fresh, delicious food to match.
We have just completed a renovation to our kitchen, dining room, garden bar and toilets.
DUTY MANAGERS & FRONT OF HOUSE STAFF FULL TIME
We are looking to fill various roles, from fast paced learners to hospitality professionals. Your role will require you to give exceptional customer service as well as being knowledgeable about the various products we sell. Attention to detail and a drive to go the extra mile essential.
Your role will be spread between working behind the bar, preparing drinks and taking food orders, to working on the floor, greeting/meeting customers, helping them to a table and delivering their food to them.
What we can offer you:
• Excellent Renumeration $26 - $32 depending on experience
• Full Staff Meals & Drinks provided on shift.
• Paid meal breaks.
• 30% Discount when not at work There are 5 positions available.
To apply send you CV and covering letter to hello@theforkandtap.co.nz
Fear Factory Queenstown are looking for an experienced Custumer Service and Scarer. Average of 32-37 hours a week (full-time), mainly evening work. You will be working with a fun, hard working, scary team, passionate about horror, making people laugh and scream.
• Excellent customer service skills
• Minimum 6 months wih full availability
• Stock management skills
• Cash, eftpos, till and computer skills
• Excellent team player
• Problem solving and communication skills to brief guests and sell merchandise
Interested?
Please email your CV and a cover letter telling us a bit about yourself to queenstown@fearfactory.co.nz
Please email your cover letter and CV to dorothy@dorothybrowns.com by Thursday 6 March
dorothy@dorothybrowns.com
for casual, temporary or long term work?? Queenstown Personnel and Labour Hire are looking for labourers for a variety of jobs around Queenstown with an immediate start. Contact Sharleen - 027 778 7377 or email sharleen@qtplabour.co.nz
Qualified Carpenters required or 3rd year apprentice
• Must have own transport and tools
• Experienced in architectural builds and concrete construction
• Work also available on the great walks off season
Great team environment Phone Tony 021 669 293 Email tony@multiline.co.nz
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
Food Runner/Floor assistant
Ideally you will have basic hospitality experience, however we are prepared to train the right applicant into this role
This is a part time, evening position of up to 20 hours per week Serving up shared plates, your role is to take the correct dishes to the tables from the kitchen.
This role needs a person with good energy, a clear head & great communication skills.
You will also clear tables, re set & assist the waitstaff in general duties Weekly pay, tips & daily staff meal are provided
Please send your CV or a brief note on why you would be interested in the position to pj@peoplelikeus.co.nz
Located in Arrowtown, The Hills Golf Club is looking for professional, enthusiastic and driven individuals to join our team in the following areas:
Head Gardener - The Lodge
This exciting opportunity requires an enthusiastic and driven gardener to lead our team at The Hills Lodge Garden that boasts an award winning landscaped garden that is a joy to maintain.
Skills include:
• Excellent communication skills and leadership qualities
• Local knowledge of plants and seasonal requirements would be an advantage
• A willingness to get stuck in
• An awareness of machinery, automation, and systems to drive efficiency
• An awareness of irrigation systems would be an advantage but not essential
• A high awareness of Health and Safety
The Clubhouse
Front of House / Duty Manager
You will need to have 2+ years of experience in a Front of House role, be available for a 7 day a week roster, with only the occasional requirement to work late nights, and have the following skills:
• Barista experience
• Be able to assist in setting up for and running events
• Stock control and general administration tasks.
• Bar skills & cocktail making
• Duty manager's licence desirable.
Sous Chef
Working closely with the Executive Chef you will have proven experience as a Sous Chef and have the ability to work independently to produce high quality dishes for our discerning membership and guests. You will be available to work over a 7 day a week roster with only the occasional requirement to work late nights. This role comes with the potential for sponsorship for the right candidate.
All roles are permanent and full time for the right candidates and own transport is a must. With easy access we also offer great staff benefits such as staff golf, subsidised lunches & uniform supplied.
Please apply to annette.smith@thehills.co.nz, only those who have been shortlisted will be contacted.
Accounts Assistant – Part Time
If you are a numbers whizz and enjoy working in a varied and interesting role with scope to “be involved & assist to hone the accounts function” then we may have the perfect role for you!
This is a permanent part time position – 25 hours per week flexible, based in our Frankton office.
Accounts Payable & Receivable:
• Overseeing and producing owner statements monthly
• Consider & reconcile owner GST requirements
• Audits batch reports
• Reconciles refunds and payment gateway payments
• Guest ledger reconciliations
• Manage aged debtors
• System updates via the CRM Relevant experience/qualifications:
• Qualification in finance or accounting or min of 2 years finance experience
• Accounts experience in hotels or hospitality would be advantageous
Please apply in writing with a CV and cover letter to:
Rachel.exell@nzsir.com 021 058 8306
GIB FIXERS, STOPPERS AND APPRENTICES
Angle Interiors is a locally owned and operated company with over 25 years in the Wakatipu. We are looking for tradesmen fixers and stoppers to join our team, as well as enthusiastic young people to join on as apprentices. Work consists of commercial, residential, high end architectural and renovation works. A high standard of work, ability to learn and follow instruction and a good team environment are important to us.
Please email CV’s and interest to brett.angleinteriors@xtra.co.nz
Join Our Team at Fine Orthodontist!
Are you passionate about creating beautiful smiles and providing top-notch patient care? Fine Orthodontist is looking for dedicated professionals to join our growing team! We have exciting opportunities for:
• Dental Assistant Why Join Us?
• Competitive salary and benefits
• Supportive and friendly work environment
• Opportunities for professional growth
• State-of-the-art orthodontic practice What We’re Looking For:
• Enthusiastic team players with a positive attitude
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Experience in orthodontics or dentistry (preferred, but training available for the right candidate)
• Passion for patient care and customer service
How to Apply:
Send your resume to management@fineortho.co.nz
Join Fine Orthodontist and be part of a team that transforms smiles and changes lives every day!
Ph: 03 409 2800
we’re looking for a
COCKTAIL BARTENDER DUTY MANAGER
enquiries@qmg.co.nz jobfix.co.nz
Salary: $28.50 - $30.00 per hour (depending on experience)
Send your CV’s to hradmin@republicqt.co.nz
As a Cocktail Bartender Duty Manager, you'll be trained across all four of our cocktail bars - Sundeck, Tommy’s, Habana, and Birdy - allowing you to gain experience in diverse cocktail styles and service environments. This role o ers variety, ongoing learning, and excellent career progression opportunities within our expanding business.
What We’re Looking For:
Experience:
Minimum 2 years bartending, 1 year in a leadership role. Certification:
A valid Duty Manager’s Certificate (ORWILLINGNESSTOOBTAINONE). Skills: Strong mixology knowledge, leadership abilities, and excellent communication.
Our perks are pretty hard to beat:
• Sta Discounts
Enjoy food & drink specials at 11 venues
• Sta accommodation options
• Epic sta events
• Great sta incentives
KAHWAH CAFE in Arrowtown
PART TIME BARISTA: We proudly use locally roasted WOLF COFFEE & are looking to hire someone who is comfortable preparing & serving high quality coffee.
• Ideally you will be comfortable running solo on a coffee machine in a popular & fast paced cafe.
• You will have experience in espresso calibration & dialling in.
• Be able to demonstrate expertise in latte art
• We are willing to train someone with a great attitude
FULL TIME FRONT OF HOUSE: This role will be focused on using the POS & sending out cabinet food sales
• You will have excellent communication skills & be able to work at speed
• Looking after guests & selling our products with a smile on your face
• Greeting people with genuine hospitality & all aspects of cafe roles
Be part of a team that offers on site training & daily support
Please email your CV & a brief note about your skill level & the role you are applying for to madisonkuru@icloud.com
Go to jobfix. co.nz now to upload your resume and find job opportunities
This amazing company is waiting for extra amazing peeps to join our fun fab team!!
General Operations Manager Supervisors & Cleaning positions available now!
Email us with cover letter and CV slithytoves33@gmail.com
