Arrowtown Preschool is set to host a night of laughter and fun with the Ethel & Bethel Bingo Babes on Saturday, 8 November, at the Arrowtown Athenaeum Hall. The popular duo will bring their trademark humour to an evening of bingo, raffles, auctions, and plenty of hilarity, all in support of Arrowtown Preschool.
Tickets are $65, which includes supper and a bingo card. Doors open at 6.15pm, with cash and EFTPOS available at the bar. The event is R18, tickets can be purchased at humanitix.com
a feast of fauré
Join the Central Otago Regional Choir and the Central Otago Regional Orchestra for A Feast of Fauré – a concert celebrating the beauty and depth of Gabriel Fauré’s music, enriched by the warmth of traditional Christmas carols.
The highlight for many will be Fauré’s serene Requiem, one of the most beloved choral works of all time. Under the direction of Richard Madden, the choir, accompanied by the orchestra, will bring this masterpiece to life with grace and sensitivity. A selection of traditional carols arranged by John Rutter will add festive sparkle.
As guest artists, the orchestra, conducted by Ashley Hopkins, will perform two contrasting works that highlight their artistry and versatility. Firstly Berceuse, the first and best known movement of Fauré’s delightful Dolly Suite, followed by Concertante for Clarinet, Bassoon and Orchestra. This features soloists Ashley Hopkins(clarinet) and Jacqui Hopkins(bassoon) and showcases the expressive range of these instruments in the hands of widely experienced musicians.
A Feast of Fauré offers a rare opportunity to experience the combined talents of two of the region’s finest ensembles – a bringing together of local voices and instrumentalists in a celebration of shared musicianship.
DATES AND VENUES: ARROWTOWN –
Athenaeum Hall, Friday, 7 November at 7.30 pm. WĀNAKA – Lake Wānaka Centre, Saturday, 8 November at 7.30pm. ALEXANDRA – Dunstan High School Hall, Sunday, 9 November at 2.30 pm. Tickets $30 available from undertheradar.co.nz or door sales subject to availability. School students free.
Don’t miss this inspiring concert of beauty, warmth and joy – the perfect prelude to the festive season.
arrowtown village association news
AVA AGM – Wednesday 22 October 2025, 6 pm
Our Annual General Meeting will be held at Arrowtown’s Community Rooms beside the Tennis Courts. Congratulations to newly elected Mayor John Glover and Councillors; Samual “Q” Belk, Heath Copland and Melissa White.
John will be in attendance along with our successfully elected Arrowtown-Kawarau Ward councillors.
The AVA wishes to thank outgoing Councillors Craig “Ferg” Ferguson, and particularly Lisa Guy, the AVA’s appointed liaison councillor. Each made themselves available for the community, including their regular councillor surgeries at the library. We are grateful for their commitment and support in what is a challenging role. freedom camping
The AVA and other community submitters successfully lobbied for a reduction in a proposed 5 Freedom Camping Parks, in Hansen Reserve Car Park (or “Flint Street”) behind the Folk & Tap, to a trial of just 3 available spots. Restrictions apply regarding proper usage, including entry and exit times. If you observe any breaches, please report to QLDC via the “Snap Send Solve” app. temporary bus stop
The AVA and APBA is currently seeking the removal of the “temporary” bus stop overlooking the skate park on Ramshaw Lane, as well as the new fence at the base of the stone wall on Buckingham Green.
Nick Fifield – AVA Chairperson
MOVE FAST, SELL FIRST.
SPRING MOMENTUM
An early increase in residential sales activity and greater economic certainty is boosting buyer spirits, adding a sense of urgency for sellers to maximise momentum with Bayleys this spring. The surge in migration, coupled with pent-up demand is creating real competition for quality properties from buyers encouraged by easing lending criteria, stabilising monetary policy and seasonal optimism.
We’re Altogether Better at marketing properties and Altogether Better at delivering results – so find out why Bayleys continues to give our sellers the edge this spring.
community celebrates
It was a heartwarming evening in Arrowtown as past and present teachers, families, and board members gathered to celebrate Jane’s outstanding career at Arrowtown Preschool. The event drew a large crowd, with some guests travelling from afar to join in the festivities. The afternoon was filled with laughter, memories, and heartfelt tributes as the community came together to honour Jane’s years of dedication and care. Current board chairperson Juliette Simm, community legend David Clarke, and board member Gemma Cribb each spoke, sharing stories and gratitude for Jane’s lasting impact on generations of local families.
As a token of appreciation, the preschool families presented Jane with a beautiful personalised platter, created by Bridget Paape from Gone Potty. The board and kaiako also gifted her a stunning pounamu necklace, symbolising strength of bond, love, friendship, and loyalty. It was a truly special celebration for Janes years of devoted service.
situations vacant
Slow Cuts – HEAD CHEF – Proven experience as a Sous Chef or higher necessary. Full time running a small team of 4-7 chefs with support and coaching from our executive chef. 2-3 hours administrative work per week. A desire to showcase your love for healthy food, family favourites, handmade burgers and of course, slow cooked delights. Sponsorship available to the right candidate. CHEF DE PARTIE – Full time. Minimum of 2 year’s experience in a busy kitchen as a Commis Chef or higher. Desire to learn and be part of an award winning team. Both positions will be a mix of evening and day shifts, your own transport to Arrowtown is essential. Please send your CV to pj@peoplelikeus.co.nz
Buckingham Street, Arrowtown 021486620
The entire range on display and available at 18 Buckingham
Bespoke kitchens on display and available to order at
18
Located in the Italian quarter between Little Aosta and Bianca Giovi
Located in the Italian quarter between Little Aosta and Bianca Giovi
bringing global rhythms to arrowtown
Audiences are in for a musical treat this spring as Shades of Shakti bring their internationally inspired sounds to Arrowtown. The group will perform at the Arrowtown Athenaeum Hall on Saturday 15 November, at 7.30 pm as part of their 17-date national tour. Formed in New Zealand in 2018, the ensemble has earned acclaim for its mesmerising fusion of Indian classical music, jazz, and Western classical traditions. Their performances are celebrated for intricate musical interplay, dynamic improvisation, and a deeply connected stage presence — drawing standing ovations at major events such as the New Zealand Festival of the Arts (2020) and the Hawke’s Bay Arts Festival (2023).
This tour offers a rare opportunity to experience some of Aotearoa and India’s finest musicians, weaving together diverse traditions into one powerful, cross-cultural performance. Tickets: $25 via humanitix.com
high spirits at highland dance competition
The second annual Queenstown Highland Dance Competition was another high-energy success, drawing 50 dancers from across Otago, Southland, the Mackenzie District, and as far as Christchurch — including 14 local competitors. Many families made a weekend of it, enjoying Queenstown’s sights and hospitality.
The event, supported by QLDC, Kahwah Coffee, Remarkables Park Pharmacy, Queenstown Rotary, Crowne Plaza, Akarua Winery, and more, kicked off with the Queenstown and Southern Lakes Highland Pipe Band, who led the youngest dancers onto the stage for a lively Highland Fling. The band also played live for the Allcomers Over-16 Irish Jig, where organiser Carleen Dalton from Queenstown and her fellow dance mum Nicolle, tied to share the trophy.
Organised by a dedicated committee of formerly non-dancing parents, the competition earned praise for its smooth running, family-friendly touches, and welcoming atmosphere.
A special moment came when Heidi Dalton won Most Points Over the Day, receiving the Darrell McKenzie Memorial Trophy, named after her late grandfather. Her mother Carleen Dalton also received her 30 BAR Award from NZ Academy President Jacqui McBride, who served as adjudicator.
“We want our club to be known for being friendly, hardworking, and fun,” organisers said. “It’s amazing to see how far we’ve come.”
The Queenstown Highland Dance Club continues to grow thanks to the generous support of the Hugo Charitable Trust, along with fundraising through busking, displays, and sausage sizzles, with proceeds helping dancers attend major competitions and the Summer Fling training camp in Christchurch this January.
Next year’s competition promises to be even bigger, featuring three Championship events—a proud moment for Queenstown’s growing Highland dance community.
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Spring is sale time….
In a year that is anything but ordinary, what does a spring sale with Susi and Sarah have to offer?
• An unconditional sale pre-Christmas
• Dropping interest rates resulting in keen buyers
• Seasonal advantage showing your home in its best light
• Demand for property in the Southern Lakes region that outstrips supply
• Unsurpassed local and international network to reach buyers others can’t
arrowtown school report
Year 7 & 8s had a busy end to last week!
Thanks to Karl Walker for helping us with our Community Giving Back - the seniors planted new trees at Bush Creek last Thursday & Friday.
All students played a new game in P.E. called Ki o Rahi. The entertainment factor was high with Mr Winders on the microphone doing commentary.
In science, Mrs Little has started our Chemistry focus with some awesome experiments.
business directory
accountants
Mike Wallace–Management Services
43 Homeward Bound Dr 027 616 9007 bars/cafés/resturants
Arrowtown Bakery
1 Ballarat Arcade, Buckingham St 03 442 1587
The Fork & Tap
51 Buckingham St 03 442 1860 child care
Arrowtown Preschool
Cotter Ave & Durham St 03 442 1416 cleaning services
Arrowtown Bowling Club 03 442 1905 Club Day Thursday. New members welcome – coaching available – More info phone Susan 021 165 0862
Arrowtown Entertainers
A local group of entertainers who love to perform and sing. Programmes include: Anzac Day, Christmas, music hall singalong, popular variety songs from shows etc. If interested, please contact Faye 03 442 2802. New members welcome.
Arrowtown Golf Club 03 442 1719
Club days–Mens every Wednesday & Saturday. Ladies 9 & 18 holes Thursday. Phone the golf shop for more information.
Arrowtown Library 03 442 1607
Hours: Mon–Fri 10 am–5 pm. Sat 10 am–2 pm. Reading to Dogs: Tues 3.30–4.30 pm, during School Term Time.
Arrowtown Menzshed 027 284 8814
The Menzshed (Preston's Drive) is open daily for members. An annual fee of $25 plus $2 donation per visit allows all facilities to be used for woodworking and community projects. New members welcome. Phone Russell Heckler 027 2848814 for info.
Arrowtown Scouts
Want to know more about the Arrowtown Scout group? We are catering for Boys and Girls aged 6-17 years. For more info email: arrowtown@group.scouts.nz
Arrowtown Village Association
Join the Arrowtown Village Association, the voice of Arrowtown. We work to protect & enhance the unique character of our town. Visit arrowtownvillage.nz to learn more.
Dorothy Browns Bookclub 03 442 1964
Meet the 1st Tuesday of each month at 10.30 am at the cinema. Newcomers welcome.
Mainly Music
We meet every Tuesday of each term at St johns Community Church hall at 10am My contact details are Eileen Toner 0272486513 or etoner1@gmail.com
Petanque
Sundays 3 pm, Library Green. All welcome!
Plunket 0800 933 922
Little fingers playgroup, Mondays 10–12 pm. Fun Fridays 10–12 pm. Remarkable Mothers group, 2nd & 4th Tuesdays of the month, 11–1 pm. Gold coin donation. All welcome. For all current information, LIKE the Arrowtown Plunket Facebook page.
Shotover Country Music Club Club day for this month Sunday 19th October from 1:30 – 4:30. Guest Artist Tony Wells. All welcome.
Venue: Arrowtown Community Centre, next to the Rugby Grounds. Contact: Barbara Kerr 027 229 7244
Wakatipu Garden Club
We meet on the 2nd Monday every month. New members welcome. For further information. Contact Jennie Burt 0273060415.