Will locals and tourists be soaring above Queenstown in a mass rapid transport gondola before the decade is out?
It certainly looks like that might be the case. An MRT system has been proposed as a solution to our ever-increasing traffic problems, not least in the recent Regional Deals bid from Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago to Central Government. Such a system would be funded by private finance and the International Visitor Levy, and could generate $37 million per year by 2048, with locals paying around $5 per trip. The document doesn’t say how much Queenstown Lakes District Council would receive of that, if any, but the council would also introduce congestion charging, to shift demand and raise revenue for new bridges, including at Arthurs Point, and roads.
I usually get a little apprehensive every time someone suggests a big new project for Queenstown. Quite often, they are just spit-balling, looking for potential finance or partners. But this time, the project seems to have more of a basis in reality. Last year, ski lift giant Doppelmayr outlined 10 high-frequency routes throughout NZ, including Queenstown, and other private companies are said to be interested, along with the local and regional councils backing it.
It will certainly anger a lot of people, including many residents along the route and also some taxi drivers. But we need actual solutions rather than endless NIMBYism and debates. Queenstown was built on risk takers and it is now the time to strike while the iron is hot. Anyone who has sat in morning traffic along Frankton Rd, or the evening rush-hour around PAK’nSAVE knows something has to change. While bikes and buses are great, there just isn’t the take-up required. We are already at facing gridlock and there are thousands more houses in the pipeline, not to mention more tourists.
Every project has positives and negatives but mass transit gondolas are at least relatively environmentally friendly compared to other forms of transport, work elsewhere around the world, and have a history in Queenstown.
It could be that in this Fast Track era, locals don’t get much of a say anyway, which would be unfortunate. I hope we at least get some proper consultation and debate on route choices, stations, loss of views, and other factors. I’d personally like to see a fixed locals’ rate like the buses, for both gondolas and congestion charging, along with a system that can accommodate bikes - that’s a must. Glass that can become opaque when passing nearby houses is another idea.
In terms of the project as a whole, it would undoubtedly be a massive drawcard for tourists and if we could get a similar financial deal to the Queenstown Airport / QLDC scenario, it would be a massive win for all. Let’s be positive about it, until there’s reason not to be.
Paul Taylor - Lakes Weekly Bulletin
Neal Glasgow, left, and son Fergus were in Queenstown on Saturday to support Luggate volunteer firefighters, including Rodger Oliveria, as they took on the Otago Southland Provincial Fire Brigades Association’s Southern Challenge. Read more p2.
‘Giving a little’ lift to recovering firefighter
by Sue Fea
Fellow local volunteer firefighters have launched a Givealittle page to help support former Kingston Volunteer Fire Brigade chief Peter Ottley, who’s been unable to work after suffering from PTSD triggered by a horrific fatal bus crash just before Christmas.
Ottley, a volunteer firefighter for 13 years, has been off work recovering from the psychological impact of what he saw at that crash, near Kingston, and more than a dozen other serious incidents over the years.
Queenstown Fire Brigade secretary Katherine Lamont launched the page last week and Pete and his family declined a similar offer several months ago but “it’s been going on too long”.
“It would be life-changing if we could lift the financial burden and allow Pete and his family time to heal,” she says on the page. It wasn’t the first tragedy he’d witnessed, but Lamont says this one had “hit hard”. “He has needed to take time off work to look after himself.”
Ottley has been denied ACC financial support as ACC will only cover mental
Firefighters from across Otago and Southland pushed themselves to the limit at the Queenstown Recreation Ground on Saturday for the Provincial Fire Brigades Association’s Southern Challenge. Fifty-seven competed in the individual races, which included a weighted tower climb, 80kg dummy drag, 80kg hose carry and other gut-busting tasks all while wearing full breathing apparatus. Another 20 compete in tandem events.
“They call it the hardest two minutes of sport,” Association President Greg Harper, of Omarama
injury claims related to an incident at paid work or a physical injury, not volunteers. Ottley courageously shared his story in Lakes Weekly Bulletin last month to highlight that New Zealand’s nearly 12,000 volunteer firefighters are not covered for psychological trauma.
Since then, he says the support has been “overwhelming”. “I didn’t really do it for me but to try and raise awareness about the situation around the lack of support from ACC for all of our 12,000 selfless volunteers,” Ottley says. “We’re out there and doing it for our communities, the response has been heartening, and I’ve been so grateful for the messages, phone calls and support. Humanity really is a wonderful thing.”
Fire and Emergency Queenstown Lakes assistant commander Nic McQuillan says the Givealittle appeal is a wonderful gesture from fellow firefighters and an amazing demonstration of support for another volunteer and his family during their troubled times.
“FENZ is aware of the issue (with ACC) and doing all it can to support people in this situation, including Pete,” he says. “Pete’s situation is relatable for many firefighters and highlights the impact on volunteers.”
To donate, scan the QRcode.
Doing the hard yards
Volunteer Fire Brigade, says. “Once you’ve come down that tower, she gets harder and harder and by the hose, the legs are burning like hell.”
It has become one of the highlights of the year for the brigades, with the competition designed to mimic on the job tasks and therefore train essential skills. Firefighters train for months before competing and some plan to compete in the Worlds in Austin, Texas, later this year.
More info and results can be found on the Association’s Facebook page.
New life for historic building
by Paul Taylor
It has taken blood, sweat and vinegar to give Queenstown’s former high school building and arts centre a new life.
School House Studios officially opened at Country Lane, opposite Queenstown Events Centre in Frankton, on Saturday, providing beautiful airy, light spaces for local creatives. But the serene interior and stunning exterior finish hide a mountain of hard work and determination which was needed to save the 84-year-old building.
After its school days, the weatherboard building had been home to the Queenstown Arts Society for 20 years on the downtown Stanley Street site. More than 50 artists had passed through over the years, but when Queenstown Lakes District Council began work on the new arterial road and preparation for Project Manawa, it was threatened with demolition.
Step forward, former Queenstown Arts Society president Diane Hart.
Hart spearheaded a plan to move the building out to Country Lane and into the care of the Grant family, sisters-in-law Tineke Enright and Annika Grant. She got the ball rolling under Mayor Jim Boult, but it stalled when Glyn Lewers took the chains. Lewers says he’d thought it would be an easy thing to get done but “political machinations” got in the way, so it needed the passion and pressure from Hart to get it over the line.
“Diane would turn up to every public meeting and absolutely give me the vinegar about this building,” Lewers says, at the opening. “Her efforts have paid off because it looks absolutely stunning.”
The project was finally given the green light and last July, the building was cut in half, loaded onto a truck and moved to Country Lane by Mark McNeilly and his team at McNeilly Heavy Haulage.
“It was a skeleton with only one side weatherboarded and the rest bare bones framing,” says project leader Annika Grant.
Mike Kelly’s Tahuna Building got to work, renovating the inside and outside, saving as much of the old structure and materials as possible, while giving it a complete overhaul, based around a central corridor, connecting the various studios and spaces, many with picturesque old-school style windows and high ceilings. FB Painting completed the finish.
“They’ve put in ridiculous hours, because I was saying ‘I want it open before summer is over’,” Grant says, “so a big shout out to them, putting in the hours over Christmas, doing everything needed.”
Tineke Enright says there was a real risk the building would be lost forever “but thanks to incredible community spirit and a whole lot of determination, especially from the legendary Diane (Hart), we were able to save it”.
“Bringing this building here and beathing new life into it has certainly been a labour of love and I’d like to thank everyone who played a part in that.
“But what’s really going to bring the building to life is the people in it, and we’re really excited to see the creativity that comes out of School House Studios. This isn’t just another building, it’s part of Queenstown’s history, and it’s here to stay.”
An eclectic range of artists have already moved in, including Nina Chen, who runs the Tikki Sewing Studio, teaching sewing to kids and adults.
“All of us moved in about a week ago to set up,” Chen says. “There are seven of us and it already feels like a community, everyone looking towards the same goal to have this creative space.
“It’s so beautiful. I’d been in the building when it was in town, to do a pottery class, but it seems now to have more light and life. I’m so happy Country Lane, Annika and Tineke, have made this happen and made us feel so comfortable.”
Queenstown is second only to Wellington on the Creative Index, and Lewers, in his speech at the opening, says he believes the studios, along with Te Atamira in Remarkables Park, will continue to provide a platform for artists and bring us closer together as a community.
Meanwhile, Hart says she’s “absolutely delighted” to finally see the building in a new home and fully restored.
“Thank you to the Grants because it’s really special. All you have to do is believe and open up, and the universe opens up for you.”
Country Lane’s School House Studios
From left, Annika Grant, Diane Hart and Tineke Enright at the opening
CRIMELINE
by Sue Fea
Gibbston fatality not hit and run – more witnesses sought Police say the fatality opposite the Kawarau Bungy Bridge around 10pm last Monday night was definitely not a hit and run and the Kiwi driver had stopped immediately and called emergency services.
They are still calling for any witnesses or other drivers with dashcam footage that will help in their investigations into the death of the man who Detective Alex Cully says was from overseas.
He’d been walking along State Highway 6 near the bungy bridge around 10pm when he was hit by a car. Sadly, the man was found deceased at the scene. His family overseas have been notified of the tragedy.
Detective Cully says the driver of the car had been very helpful and cooperative and the whole experience had obviously been very upsetting for him.
“We’re still interested in any sightings in the area at the time,” Cully says. The man who died was wearing black pants and a black shirt, walking along the highway. “Our inquiries are continuing and we’d still like anyone with dashcam footage, or who witnessed the incident, or saw this man walking along the highway, to come forward,” Cully says.
The man’s death has been referred to the Coroner.
Anyone with information should contact Police online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” or call 105.
Use the reference number 250304/8199. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111.
Police want to hear from assault victims – Jardine Park
Police would like to hear from any more victims of assaults, or people who are aware of assaults, in the Jardine Park area of Kelvin Heights after arresting two teenagers for serious offences, including alleged assault at the park on Sunday, 23 February, and Tuesday, 25 February. Victims were left needing hospital treatment for their injuries.
Two teenagers have been charged with aggravated burglary, threatening to kill, assault with a weapon and possession of an offensive weapon. They’ve also been charged with a burglary in the area earlier in February and will appear in the Queenstown Youth Court on 12 March.
“We still want to hear from anyone who has seen anything suspicious in the area recently, especially around that time, or any time since,” Cully says. “We’re not looking for anyone else in relation to this though and the public can feel safe,” she says.
Report suspicious behaviour
Police are also investigating a recent spate of car break-ins in Kelvin Heights, some of these dating back up to six months, and they still want to hear from anyone with information, sightings, or who may have had property damaged.
“If anyone has vehicles targeted, even little things like a broken window, anything that’s been interfered with, and also in months gone by, we want to hear from them,” Cully says. “Keep your eyes peeled for anything suspicious and please report it to the Police.”
Contact Police on 105, either by calling or making a report online here and quote the reference number 250224/8050. Information can be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
Fighting at McDonald’s
A 30-year-old Canterbury man was arrested for fighting after an altercation between him and two other males inside McDonald’s Restaurant just after midnight on Sunday, 2 March. Constable Amanda Shute says the fighting continued outside where the man was pushed by a male and retaliated, punching one of the men and kicking the other. The two other males left prior to Police arrival and the Canterbury male was released with a formal warning.
Robinson’s seventh consecutive podium
Alice Robinson has continued her exceptional podium streak, claiming her seventh consecutive Giant Slalom World Cup podium, and lining up a final showdown. The Queenstown 23-year-old finished second at the FIS Giant Slalom World Cup in Are over the weekend, marking her 17th career podium.
“It’s amazing – 17 podiums and seven in a row, I was really happy I could keep the podium streak alive. I am still chasing after Federica and I have one more chance to try and get her at World Cup Finals.”
The Giant Slalom in Are marked the eighth of nine scheduled Giant Slalom World Cup races for the 2025 season, with just the final remaining in late March. High winds at the top of the course resulted in the use of a lower start and a shortened course for the athletes who had to hunt for every hundredth of a second of speed.
Federica Brignone of Italy was the first athlete on course, putting down an error free run and setting the time to beat for the first run. Robinson was sitting in fifth after her first run, +0.65 seconds off Brignone’s time in the tight race.
Robinson tore down the course for her second run, skiing her way into the leader’s seat, but with four athletes still to come, a podium was not yet guaranteed. However, her time held strong right up until Brignone put down a blistering second run to take the win by an impressive +1.36 ahead of Robinson who claimed second position. Eighteen-year-old Lara Colturi of Albania rounded out the podium in third.
“There are so many positive, although I wasn’t very happy with my skiing in the first run, and even the second run didn’t feel very good. I think it was quite close with the times and I was lucky to come in second on the right side of the hundredths.”
All eyes will be on Robinson and Brignone at the final race of the season, the Giant Slalom World Cup Finals in Sun Valley, Idaho on the 26 March NZT, where they will be battling it out for the FIS Giant Slalom Crystal Globe. Robinson is looking forward to the final race of the season, saying: “Federica has been amazing with all these wins, but I guess me sticking close in second, it’s keeping the points. It’s cool that we get to have a final shoot out in Sun Valley in a couple weeks.”
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Women’s FIS Giant Slalom Podium in Are. From left, Alice Robinson (NZL) 2nd, Federica Brignone (ITA) 1st, Lara Colturi (ALB) 3rd. Photo: Jonas Ericsson / Agence Zoom
John Psathas Composer in Residence for AWE 2025 Festival
World-renowned New Zealand–Greek composer John Psathas has been announced as the 2025 At the World’s Edge Festival Composer in Residence.
Psathas is known across the globe for his bold, genre-spanning compositions and large-scale collaborations. His music has been performed on all seven continents, including Antarctica, and he was a driving force behind the music of the Athens 2004 Olympic Games opening ceremony. Renowned for his versatility and creativity, Psathas has collaborated with artists from Salman Rushdie to Serj Tankian, blending live performance with cinematic soundscapes, video, and text to create powerful musical narratives.
As part of his AWE residency, John Psathas has been commissioned to compose two new works, which will premiere during the spring festival. His works from across the decades will feature throughout the festival programme and audiences will have the rare opportunity to hear him in conversation, discussing his compositions and inspirations.
AWE Festival Director Justine Cormack is delighted by his appointment: “Having performed and commissioned a lot of John’s music over the years, I couldn’t be more thrilled for him to be joining us for this year’s fifth anniversary festival. I’m looking forward to premiering his two new commissions for AWE 2025, as well as sharing a raft of his other chamber works. Audiences are in for a treat! His music is powerful and so utterly moving on the deepest and most meaningful levels, and we look forward to celebrating him and all his creativity throughout the festival.”
In the five months leading up to AWE 2025, Psathas will also mentor the festival’s Emerging Composer as part of At the World’s Edge’s commitment to supporting New Zealand’s next generation of musicians. He joins a distinguished line-up of past Composers in Residence, including Eve de Castro-Robinson, Victoria Kelly, Gareth Farr, and Salina Fisher, each of whom has contributed new works to the festival.
At the World’s Edge Festival runs from 4–12 October 2025, with performances in Queenstown, Wānaka, Cromwell and Bannockburn. The AWE+ series offers free events—including concerts, open rehearsals, and talks—across all festival venues, and culminating with a tour of schools throughout the district between 13-17 October. Tickets go on sale in May.
For more info, visit www.worldsedgefestival.com.
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Queenstown’s Whakatipu Music Festival returns to the Arts calendar this Easter with an outstanding line up of up-and-coming young talent.
Mentored and supported by national and international classical music professionals, the festival will feature six concerts over four days between 18-21 April at the Queenstown Memorial Centre, showcasing everything from Bach to Broadway, and classical to jazz.
Twelve emerging New Zealand musicians aged 18-28, went through a rigorous selection process to be chosen to perform. Over the festival week they will receive guidance and coaching from five renowned artists who will also perform over the weekend. They include choral director Dr. Karen Grylls, pianists Bernadette Harvey and Stephen De Pledge, cellist Julian Smiles and violinist Ioana Cristina Goicea (winner of the 2017 Michael Hill International Violin Competition.).
“We’d really love as many people as possible to join us in celebrating this Easter season with music that touches the heart and thrills the soul,” Executive Director Anne Rodda says. “The festival is focused on uplifting local talent and stimulating the thriving arts community in QueenstownLakes, delivered by a local workforce mentored by industry professionals.”
A series of workshops are also being held alongside the concerts in which keen music lovers are invited to participate. Tickets for all six events are on sale at eventfinda.co.nz starting at $15 for students and $49/$59 for adults. For more info, visit michaelhillviolincompetition.co.nz/whakatipu-music-festival/
Conductor Dr Karen Grylls is a 2025 festival artist
John Psathas
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Serving freshly prepared Indian dishes, a perfect quick and delicious meal on the go. Visit our Facebook page, or Instagram @tapri2k23 for location updates on where to find our food truck. We cater to private events. Ph: 0221 236 640 | 0211 184 515 goodfoodlimited23@gmail.com
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GOINGS ON ABOUT
EVENTS - MUSIC - ART
THEATRE - AT THE GALLERIES
Te Atamira Volunteer Info Night
COMMUNITY
Do you have a passion for the arts? Te Atamira are looking for dedicated volunteers to help support their work. If you can commit to a regular shift of a few hours each week or a regular monthly slot, they’d love to hear from you. At the info night, you’ll learn about their volunteer programme and discover three exciting ways you can get involved. Learn details about how you can get involved. It’s the perfect opportunity to ask questions, meet like-minded people, and become part of a creative community.
When: Wednesday, 12 March, 7pm
Where: Te Atamira, 12 Hawthorne Drive, Frankton
Queenstown Multicultural Festival
This is the third annual gathering of this dynamic and inclusive community event. Held in alignment with the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, this festival is a vibrant celebration of unity, diversity, and connection. Immerse yourself in the flavours of global cuisines, experience breathtaking cultural performances, participate in engaging workshops, and enjoy family-friendly activities designed to inspire and educate. This milestone event showcases the richness of our community’s cultural tapestry and reaffirms our commitment to fostering understanding and harmony. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to celebrate, explore, and connect!
When: Saturday, 15 March, 10am – 6pm
Where: Queenstown Events Centre, Joe O’Connell Drive, Frankton
Frankton Volunteer Fire Station and St John Queenstown Fundraiser
Enjoy a night of live music by local band The Collective, canapes, a drink on arrival and a delicious three-course dinner. Dress code is black tie and there will be auctions on the night, with all proceeds going to Frankton Volunteer Fire Station and Hato St John Queenstown. Tickets are limited, so get in quick – if you can’t make the event, you can still register and bid for auction items, too.
Awaken Your Medicine: A Cacao, breathwork & sound journey
This transformational and empowering evening of cacao, breathwork, and sound, will explore the ancient wisdom of music and breath as medicine and awaken the healing power of our own voices. This journey is an invitation to open your heart, expand your breath, and activate your voice as a channel for healing and self-expression. Through the sacred plant medicine of cacao, guided breathwork, and sound activation, you will be supported in releasing blockages, expanding your energetic field, opening to a higher perspective and remembering your unique soul song. So that you can leave this experience feeling clear, connected and inspired.
When: Saturday, 15 March, 6pm – 9pm
Where: Yama Yoga, 26 Hansen Road, Frankton
3 Bucks Left
Irish comedians 3 Bucks Left will serve up a night of laughter and unforgettable comedy. The group was created by childhood friends and total, utter piss takers – their satire is laden with comedy and pathos throughout, inspiring many other acts in its wake. Now a decade later, it remains one of Ireland’s favourite comedy shows. One night of stone mad massive craic, pure hilarious goin’s on, and some philosophical reflection.
Oceania’s best mountain bikers will return to New Zealand for the first time in five years for the continental championships, giving our riders the opportunity to compete against the best in the region on home soil. The three-days of competition will see Oceania Champions crowned in three categories. For the first time riders will compete in Cross-country Short Track (XCC), as well as Cross Country (XCO) and Downhill (DH). Friday 21 March will be dedicated to practice for cross-country and track walk for downhill, with XCO racing on Saturday along with DH practice and racing for both XCC and DH on Sunday.
That Old Style Swing - Skin and BoneTiny Room Concert
Cowboy Lounge is a foray into the unique and undefinable style of Skin and Bone’s ‘acoustic swing’. Hailing from Ōtepoti, Dunedin, Skin and Bone are the product of very longstanding musical friendships. Get ready for some authentic 1930s style bluegrass swing. Already well-known in Dunedin for their energetic tunes and original songs, we are in for a treat here in Arrowtown, as Cowboy Lounge takes you through a tour of acoustic rock, contemporary folk music, and that ‘old style swing.’
When: Thursday, 13 March, 6.30pm – 7.30pm
Where: The Blue Door, 18 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown
Yurt Party
Ōtautahi’s Yurt Party are on the road to celebrate the release of their new single, The Gambler. Known for their high-energy, genre-blending performances, they’ve built a reputation as one of New Zealand’s most exhilarating live acts. Fans can expect a cascade of new tunes over the next few months, delivering a fresh but familiar sound.
When: Saturday, 15 March, 8.30pm – 11.30pm
Where: Yonder, 14 Church Street, Queenstown
QUEENSTO WN HEALTH
HOSPOGUIDE
Live music with Brett Walker 6pm $15 Rump Steak
Wednesday Quiz Night
music with Eby Sebastian 4pm DJ Stubacca 7pm $15 Parmi
Bookings are required. To book contact info@lokalqt.co.nz or ring 03 442 5444
Hospo Night DJ MAD / double points
Open Mic Night from 9.30pm
DOC SANCHEZ Live (Latin guitar) $11 Margaritas and Espressos
music with Joel Neilson 5pm DJ Myles 8pm $15 Burger & Fries
MARCH- 17 MARCH
Live music with TJ 5pm DJ Rinkha 8pm $15 Chef’s Special
Live Music with Nix 1pm DJ Eoin 4pm $15 Chef’s Special
$4800 RAISED!! Thanks to all the breweries involved! Now Pouring @ Atlas
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Takeaways available, burgers, ribs, pizzas and more! Order online www.lokalqt.co.nz
FERNHILL ROAD, FERNHILL, QUEENSTOWN
Pizza Night Quiz from 7pm then Live Music
Summer Lunch Special
$28 BBQ meat platter, dine in or takeaway, Fri, Sat and Sun only 12pm to 5pm
Beginnings Round 3
Je Marco
to Sunday Live Music or DJ from 9.30pm New All Day Happy Hour, drink specials every day Monday
St Patrick’s Day Early Open from 11am DJ Bigboy (Cory) R&B
Super Pool Competition
$200 Cash Prize, kicks off at 9pm DJ from 9.30pm - Late
Food Truck, TACOS JAGUAR
Live Music with Je Marco 7.30pm DJ Mitch from 10pm
Drum and Bass Thursdays DJ AYEEDEEG spinning your fav DnB tunes 10pm - Late! Friday/Saturday DJs playing the hottest Hip-Hop & RnB tracks on Fridays and Saturdays 10pm - Late! $25 shot skis every day
6.30-9.30pm, Every Friday, Elle & Alex Music
Live Music with Blake & Gabby 10pm
3 BUCKS LEFT, Irish Comedy, tickets on undertheradar.
Live Music with CAT 10pm
NOW OPEN from 1pm
Live Music with The Mandates 10pm
Live Music with Eby 9pm
Live Music with TJ 9pm
Arts+Culture
Spreading Te Reo across the world
by Jessica Allen
Alien Weaponry have been making waves around the world’s metal scene, singing in te reo Māori. The trio have just wrapped up a successful North American tour, where they supported Kerry King of Slayer fame and they’re now back on the road in Aotearoa, heading to Tāhuna this month.
The band have forged their own path since their early days in Waipū, a small town in Northland, combining English and te reo vocals in their music. They were founded by brothers Henry Te Reiwhati de Jong and Lewis Raharuhi de Jong – and a more recent addition to the band is Tūranga Morgan-Edmonds, who goes by Tū.
For those who aren’t familiar with Alien Weaponry, Tū suggests you visualise a Haka and put heavy metal music behind it.
“We are a heavy metal band that incorporate te reo Māori into our music and Te Ao Māori on a bigger scale,” Tū says. “Not just the language and not just Haka, but both in lyrical content and in the messages that we’re trying to spread with our music.”
Popular here and abroad, they’ve been able to bring te reo and Te Ao around the world, and it’s been really well received. One thing they’re proud of is proving naysayers wrong – those who describe the language and culture as something that only matters here.
“We go and play shows all over the world and people love it – people are singing in Māori and they’re from America, or they’re from Spain, or they’re from Germany – wherever they’re from, they’re loving it and absorbing it. Then they’re going home and they’re learning more about it in any facet, and that’s awesome for us, that’s why we keep doing it.”
Fans are always encouraged to sing along, and it’s a unique experience for the boys to hear people singing back with different accents. Americans have a slightly harder time pronouncing the te reo parts, while the Spanish have similar pronunciations with their rolling ‘r’, so they sound great. Tū say it doesn’t matter how you do it, as long as you’re trying.
“We were amazed on this latest tour – at the very start we released the newest single of the upcoming album and we’re already seeing people over here singing it in the front row when we’re playing it. Not only is that crazy because the song only just came out, but that’s crazy because we’re in a country where they don’t speak Māori. It’s really awesome to see people just trying and loving it.”
In addition to the US tour, they’ve been busy preparing for the release of their new album, Te Rā, which comes out on 28 March, and have recently released a documentary on the formation of the band. Some singles were released in February and the next one will be ‘Taniwha’, which features Randy Blythe from Lamb of God, on 26 March. The reception so far has been positive. They’ve taken a slightly different direction for the album, trying some new things too, including recording in the States.
“What we realised was that by being in an environment that isn’t home, away from everything that reminds you of home, was that it’s a really great environment to just focus.”
It’s been a wee while since the band have toured locally, about five years, and they’re excited to be back. It’s overall a more relaxed environment and there’s not as much pressure overall. It’ll be their first time playing in Queenstown and they’re very much so looking forward to seeing the sights and seeing the diverse audience here.
“We always say that we do it, not to get affirmation from the external source, but it’s to remind people back home who feel weighed down by all that constant negativity that is being spilled out in either public or Facebook, that New Zealand isn’t the only place in the world – there’s a huge world out there and there are plenty of people out there who love and support our people and our language. Hopefully we inspire people not to be too let down by this small minority of negativity,” Tū says.
Alien Weaponry will perform at AJ Hackett Kawarau Bungy Centre on Sunday, 23 March. You can listen to their latest releases, and grab tickets at alienweaponry.com
COMMUNITY NOTES
Rotaract Working Bee
Rotaract Central Lakes is about bringing together individuals committed to making a difference. Unlike traditional Rotaract groups, we welcome members of all ages, united by our desire to give back to our community.
Having been up and running for about a year now we’ve done some re-painting for Happiness House, delivered firewood to those who needed a little support over winter, been out and cleaned huts as part of the FMC Love our Huts campaign, and organised a Hiking Buddies programme over summer which had a selection of both day and overnight hikes.
When we were getting started, we talked about why we wanted to do this. Why are we trying to make things happen?
We settled on:
• People – we want to do projects that change lives and build community
• Plant – we want to do projects that leave our place better than we found it
• Play – all while having fun
We also thought about, again, why come together – why not just do this on our own as individuals?
So we realised that we wanted to be guided by: “Greater than can be done by one”.
This is about how if we want to make the changes we see in the world then we need to come together to make a difference.
We aim to do projects that need a team, the slightly harder things to get done but that people would love to see happen in our community.
We’ve got the following events coming up:
• Hospital Gardens working bee on 15 March, from 9am.
-We are looking for people who can do some weeding, hedge trimming
- We are also looking for people who can wield a chainsaw to help us trim trees that are blocking the lighting in the carpark
-Feel free to turn up – no RSVP required
- FB event
• Eyre Mountains Wilding Pine
- We are heading into the Eyre Mountains on 5 April to do some early intervention on the wilding pine population up there.
If you’d like to be involved, or have a project for us please email centrallakesrotaractclub@gmail.com
My Life Story
by Sue Fea
DANNY CARSON
Host with the most
He specialised in fi ne wines, outlandish promotions and good times, from lavish Auckland lunches, oysters and Bollinger fl owing in the 80s to mystery feasts atop The Remarkables. Danny Carson knew how to throw a party.
Local rep for Negociants Fine Wines, Danny and wife Lizzie also left their mark on Queenstown’s restaurant scene, bringing their fi ne wine and dining know-how to Fernhill with Vknow Restaurant, Danny’s Wakatipu Wine Academy also sharing that knowledge.
A ‘westie’ from Glen Eden, Danny grew up surfi ng at Piha and tramping in the Waitākeres – bush at his backdoor.
“At 14 we watched Jacques Cousteau on TV, bought the gear and taught ourselves to dive,” he says.
A huge rugby league fan, he was president of the Wakatipu Giants – a regional competition force to be reckoned with at the time, his uncle former Kiwi Eric Carson and his dad having played for several Auckland sides.
“At Kelston Boys High – a leading rugby school, I had to pick up rubbish because I would only play league,” he grins. At 25 he played for the South Island against France and Australia and was under watch for the Kiwis squad until a broken hip put paid to that.
Destined to work with wine, Danny grew up around Auckland’s early Dalmatians in ‘Dalie Valley’ where they pioneered some of Auckland’s early wines. He worked school holidays in his mate, Martin Jakicevich’s family store Glengarry Wines. Martin later imported fi ne wines in the early 1980s and employed Danny, who’d been in Christchurch starting a family, for importing and distributing.
“People wanted to learn about Champagne and there was a lot of it fl oating around Auckland back then,” he says. “Glengarry got a name. Martin cracked it.
“I had three children, a credit card and a brand new company taking clients out to lunch and schmoozing,” he says. “I’d be eating oysters and drinking Bollinger by day then coming home to three mortgages and mince on toast at night.”
Eventually a ‘life lesson’ prompted him to abandon this double life and Danny took a hammer hand contract on a construction site, unfortunately landing in hospital after copping steel in his eye.
A broken back in a car accident was another bad blow but after his marriage ended a bright ray of sunshine arrived in the form of blind Queenstown nurse Jenni McBride, who’d lost her sight in a car accident locally.
“I was at a Bollinger tennis tournament party in Auckland and Jenni gate crashed with her guide dog,” he says. “It was love at fi rst sight. We bought an old school J1 Bedford truck, and I kitted it out as a camper and we took a year heading down to Queenstown visiting schools, telling kids about
guide dogs and wearing seatbelts.”
Initially Danny was a Wicked Willies barman – the legendary Fred Lynch and Barry Crump among his regulars. Glengarry had become Negociants and Danny saw a gap in the local liquor market, Martin employing him for Queenstown promotions.
“David Bradford was mayor, and I ordered everyone in hospo to come to the Village Green at 9am, ‘hungry, thirsty and in warm clothes’.” Busloads of mystery tourers headed up The Remarkables where Choppy, then new to town, was waiting with her helicopter and Tim Butson with an oyster bar and Bollinger in the snow.
Operators were also lured onto the Kingston Flyer to do a re-run of the Crunchie Bar Kid ads, locals on horseback armed with drench packs under Driza-Bones.
Danny once leased an empty 1960s conference charter plane sitting idle at the airport, charging $300 a head for a Fiordland scenic fl ight with Champagne and sushi.
A partner in Beaver Liquor from 2000, they’d load the trademark sponsored 1956 Mash-style ambulance with customers, loungers and chairs in the back, wining and dining them to Bannockburn.
All these skills made romancing wife Lizzie easy during a hot spell in 1999Champagne on ice at the lake every night, until fi nally he won a date.
Danny, Derek Stewart and others were instrumental in developing the Gardens skatepark – an idea sparked by Danny’s son Kris, here on school holidays. Wicked Willies stumped up with pokie money to help.
Danny also ran fundraising tennis tournaments to benefi t Wakatipu Abuse Prevention Network and the Queenstown Tennis Club.
In 2003 Danny and Lizzie combined their wine and food experience launching Vknow Restaurant on the Giuseppe’s site at Fernhill, the perfect complement to Danny’s established Wakatipu Wine Academy. They’d stage tastings, degustations and host winemaker celebrities. “It was always a sellout. People came from everywhere.”
After 16 years they sold in 2019Vknow and their home in one week, scoring a beautiful rural property outside Kaikoura.
Danny’s happily retired but the “honest and beautiful community” of Queenstown will always be dear to his heart. “Jenni and I went to France in 1995 and left our house unlocked. Nothing got stolen. That was a magical time. Frankton Road was 100km/hr and everybody got on.”
Danny and Lizzie at home in Kaikoura
Danny warming up for a charity performance of Swan Lake in early 80s
Danny on the job back in the day wowing customers at Cavell’s
Yet another promotion - Danny dressed as a nun at Cardrona in the late 90s
Tell us how you really feel
The new community insights survey is a chance to provide feedback on how satisfied you are with the Council and its performance. How well does QLDC reflect the views of everyone in our community and how much do you trust it to make our district a better place? Praise or grumble, we want to hear from you. Take the 10-minute survey before 30 March at https://letstalk.qldc.govt.nz
Community funding applications open soon
Need funding for a local community group or event?
Or have a smart idea for reducing waste? QLDC offers funding to support projects that promote community wellbeing and sustainability. Applications open April. Learn more at www.qldc.govt.nz/community-funding
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
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
Workshop to help businesses reduce waste
Measure What Matters is a free workshop for businesses looking to reduce waste. Hosted by QLDC, Wastebusters and Destination Queenstown (DQ), it will provide practical tools for creating a waste minimisation plan. 9.00-11.30am, 18 March at DQ’s offices in the Mountaineer Building. More info at www.queenstownnz.co.nz/member-hub/member-events
Applying for resource consent?
We’ve changed how consent applications need to be paid for. You’ll no longer pay upfront but instead receive an invoice for the initial fee once we receive your application. Wait for the invoice then make your payment using the reference provided. We’ll then process applications once we receive payment. More at www.qldc.govt.nz/resource-consent-payment
Last chance to feedback on iconic reserves
Lost & Found
LOST & FOUND
UNCLAIMED ITEMS SITTING AT THE Police Station, at 11 Camp Street, this week include:
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.
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
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
ARROWTOWN RSA AGM
Wednesday 26 March
7pm at the Arrowtown Bowling Club Apologies to arrowtownrsa@gmail.com
QUEENSTOWN DHARMA CENTRE, 12 LAKE ST
TUE (11 Mar - last class) @ 6.30pm, Nurturing Peace with Grant Rix SUN (16 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
There’s still time to share your views on how Te-Taumata-oHakitekura Ben Lomond & Te Tapunui Queenstown Hill are managed, used and enjoyed. Read the draft plan and make a submission before 17 March at https://letstalk.qldc.govt.nz 42
www.qldc.govt.nz
LWB QUIZ
1. What percentage of the Earth's surface is made up of the Atlantic Ocean?
2. What temperature centigrade does water boil at?
3. In which year was the Microsoft XP operating system released?
4. What is the name of the creators of Stranger Things?
5. US sitcom Frasier (1993-2004) is a spin-off series from which popular comedy?
6. Natasha Romanoff is the real name of which superhero?
7. How many permanent members are there on the UN security council?
8. In what US state is the city Nashville?
9. What is the currency of Denmark?
10. What is the name of the main antagonist in the Shakespeare play Othello?
11. What was the old name for a Snickers bar before it changed in 1990?
12. Where is Strictly Come Dancing filmed?
13. Which 2014 Seth Rogen film caused the North Korean government to threaten action against the United States?
14. Which comedian was the second permanent host of Never Mind the Buzzcocks after Mark Lamarr?
15. Which member of The Beatles narrated the first series of Thomas the Tank Engine on TV?
16. Which US state was Joe Biden born in?
SUPs, Surfboards, Wakeboards, Wetsuits,
Leashes, Booties, Hoods, Wake Vests, Rashvest
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
jobfix.co.nz
We are looking for
DUTY MANAGERS - CHEFS
WAIT STAFF - BAR STAFF
KITCHEN HANDS
If you’re an energetic, ambitious & experienced hospitality professional we want to hear from you.
Send your CV to hr@wolfgroup.nz
Warehouse Assistants, Delivery Drivers Evening Shift Picker and Packers
Bidfood Queenstown is currently looking for Warehouse Assistants, Delivery Drivers and Evening Shift Picker and Packers. This is an excellent opportunity to join a stable and highly respected company within the hospitality industry. We offer a competitive remuneration package, consistent hours and staff benefits.
Key responsibilities include picking orders for the delivery runs and packing to pallet. You may also be required to receive incoming goods, check inventory and warehouse maintenance. Delivery drivers will need to deliver goods to our customers around the Queenstown and Wanaka region. This position requires individuals to be physically fit as there is frequent heavy lifting of up to 25kg.
Previous experience in a warehouse environment or delivery driving is preferable but not essential as full training and appropriate PPE will be provided. Forklift experience also desirable but not essential. Applicants must be able to provide references and must be eligible to work in NZ to apply for this role.
Please send your CV to HR.Queenstown@bidfood.co.nz
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
WE'RE HIRING – JOIN THE STAYSOUTH TEAM!
Part-Time Bookkeeper (15-20 hours a week)
We’re looking for an experienced bookkeeper to assist with accounting, data entry, and financial administration. Must be detail-oriented, proficient in Excel, and familiar with bookkeeping software. Flexible hours available.
Weekend Reservations Assistant (2 days a week).
We’re looking for someone to handle our guest reservations and inquiries on weekends. Must have excellent reading and writing skills in English, strong attention to detail, and great customer service. Hospitality or admin experience is preferred, but training will be provided.
To apply or learn more, email property@staysouth.com with your CV and cover letter.
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!
Aspiring Learners are looking for a tutor!
AspiringLearners arelooking foratutor!
We are a private tuition business based in Wanaka and Queenstown and offer specialist individualised tuition for students in literacy and numeracy. We work with students who have dyslexia, dyscalculia and other neurodiversities, and students who simply struggle with their learning. If you have a current or expired NZ teachers practising certificate for either primary or secondary teaching and would like part time or full time work working one on one with students, please contact us. A training course will be provided. If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you!
For more information visit our website www.aspiringlearners.co.nz or contact Kristin - kristin@aspiringlearners.co.nz
Join our team at Southern Lakes Laundries! We’re a busy commercial laundry with various projects, looking for a skilled seamstress for repair and alteration work.
This role is perfect for someone seeking school hours or flexible working hours.
• Experience in sewing
• Attention to detail
• Reliable & efficient
Interested? Please email your resume to silvi.locatelli@southernlakeslaundries.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
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
Cafe Manager position
Experienced cafe allrounder required to run a 7 day cafe in central Queenstown. Daytime hours and friendly team.
We are also looking for Baristas & All-rounders
Call Ed on 021 280 2425 or email marmoladacafe@yahoo.com
Our teams are producing work of the highest standards. Our work ethos is amazing.
We o er: Training for the right candidate
We o er: Apprenticeships
We o er: Transport
We o er: Good wages
No CV required!
If you are t, hardworking, reliable, and want an opportunity to work with a great team, email us: otago xers@xtra.co.nz
VACANCIES
and Unskilled Labourers
Traffic Controllers
Looking for casual, temporary or long term work??
Queenstown Personnel and Labour Hire are looking for labourers for a variety of jobs around Queenstown with an immediate start.
Contact Sharleen - 027 778 7377 or email sharleen@qtplabour.co.nz
Hostel Manager
We are an independently run friendly backpacker hostel in central Queenstown and we are looking for an enthusiastic manager to join the team.
If you enjoy working with people, have great customer facing skills, some management experience and able to work flexible hours we’d love to hear from you.
On site accommodation is available Previous experience would be great but not essential. Working Visa is required, this is a long term role.
Apply by emailing neil@stayatsouthern.co.nz or see us at 4 Isle St, Queenstown
Ph: 03 409 2800
enquiries@qmg.co.nz
jobfix.co.nz
ARROWTOWN
Come and immerse yourself in the 1,500+ wines and spirits we stock and help us showcase the 100+ wines, gins, whiskies & spirits we have for tasting everyday with customers who come from all over the world.
Kitchen Hand / Barista
This is a great entry into hospitality, we will train you in preparing and serving our cheeseboard and tapas menu, and all our kitchen operations. Ideal if you are looking for 30 - 40 hours, 3-4 days a week. Additional days available if you have experience as a Barista.
Enquire confidentially via email to manager@thewinery.co.nz or drop your CV into The Winery, 27 Ramshaw Lane, Arrowtown. hr@wolfgroup.nz
Seeking experienced & reliable
MAINTENANCE PERSON
Can you help ensure the smooth operation & upkeep of our 10 leading bars & restaurants across Queenstown & Frankton?
If you are handy with tools and are looking for variety & exibility in your work day, send your CV to:
