The Loop Arrowtown – Edition 265

EE FR your local event guide & directory 11 December 2025 – 14 January 2026

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays Arrowtown e - thelooparrowtown@gmail.com w - thelooparrowtown.com

m - 021 0287 8638

issue 265

THINKING OF SELLING THIS

HOLIDAY SEASON? Your property could be someone’s perfect christmas gift!

arrowtown@bayleys.co.nz | 03 442 1616 bayleys.co.nz ARROWTOWN REALTY PARTNERS LIMITED, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Residential / Commercial / Rural / Property Services

www.trickytreesqt.com

• All aspects of tree maintenance

• Section clearing

• Tree removals – Dismantling & felling

• Stump grinding

• Hedge trimming – large & small

• Firewood

• Wood splitter hire

• Mulch supplies

SERVING ARROWTOWN & QUEENSTOWN FOR OVER 18 YEARS 021 275 1268

trickytreesqt@gmail.com

PURE FIJI CHRISTMAS TREATS Looking for the perfect little Christmas stocking filler or a gorgeous treat for your bestie, mum, wife or daughter?

Indulge in sheer island luxury Pure Fiji is absolutely delicious, beautifully packaged, and available at amazing prices.

Because everyone deserves a little tropical pampering…even you.

NOW AVAILABLE AT dorhair.co.nz 1

2

summer reading challenge Join this year’s Summer Reading Challenge: Forest Quest. The natureinspired theme aims to encourage children to read over the summer holiday period and features prizes for every five books read.

This year’s reading challenge was developed by Queenstown Lakes Libraries in collaboration with Whakatipu Reforestation Trust and Te Kākano. Prizes for young readers include a kōwhai seedling kit, stickers, and the Tree Tops card game – specially designed to showcase native plants which grow in our district.

The Summer Reading Challenge is available for children of all ages.

Pop into your local library to register a child and collect the first challenge card.

The challenge runs from 1 December 25 to 14 February 26.

110th lake hayes A&P show The countdown is officially on and we’re gearing up for one amazing day out at the 110th Lake Hayes A&P Show. In just five short weeks, the shores of Lake Hayes will come alive with colour, community spirit, and all the magic of this iconic summer tradition.

Get ready for a full day brimming with rural heritage, local flavour, and family fun. This year’s theme, Paddock to Pantry, shines a spotlight on our incredible local food scene, and we can’t wait for you to step into the all-new Lake Hayes Larder. Think artisan tastings, interactive foodie experiences, special guests, and live cooking demos.

Kids are sorted too with the ever popular Queenstown Airport Kids Zone offering free, all day entertainment. Plus all the classics you love: equestrian and livestock action, over seventy trade stalls, live entertainment, the crowd favourite Hobby Horse competition, and plenty of space to relax, explore, and enjoy the atmosphere.

We’re keeping things green, so bring along your reusable cups, bottles, and containers.

And make the most of the free Park and Ride Shuttle from the Crown Pub & Beer Garden at Five Mile Centre Queenstown or cycle in using the managed SH6 crossing and free bike parking.

Join us Saturday, 10 January 2026 – a full day of fun, food, farming, and community pride at the Lake Hayes A&P Show!

33

arrowtown village association news macetown road

The Macetown Road managed access project is almost complete.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed by the broad stakeholder group, which will see the implementation of a gate and permit system for vehicular access to Macetown. The intent is to safeguard public assess into the future, raising funds for track maintenance and providing accountability for responsible usage. The gate will be installed prior to Christmas but remain open, from mid to late January an online permit will be required to unlock the gate, in February the system will be fully operational with a paid permit required to unlock the gate and obtain access. $40 per 4WD or Motorcycle, $100 yearly permit for locals, horse riders (permit required) and trampers are free. freedom camping

Freedom camping came into effect at Arrowtown’s Hansen Place Car Park on the 1st December. 3 spots are available with parking permitted no earlier than 6pm and no later than 8am. If breaches are observed, the community is encouraged to use the Snap Send Solve App to report these instances. This will help monitor the suitability of this location until further review.

AVA annual survey

Our Annual Survey will be out in the New Year, an important part of gaining community feedback, as well as for signing up as a member in 2026, donations are voluntarily but greatly appreciated.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from your AVA! Nick Fifield – AVA Chairperson

web arrowtownvillage.nz email chairperson@arrowtownvillage.nz FB @arrowtownvillage 4

Merry Christmas from the team at Golden Fleece!

5

INSTANTLY FIND OUT THE VALUE OF YOUR HOME. Use our AI generated property calculator.

WE’LL TAKE YOUR ARROWTOWN PROPERTY FURTHER. Known, trusted, proven.

6

CHECK OUT OUR APPRAISAL TOOL

swim club pushes on despite heating failure Arrowtown’s summer swim season is underway, though it’s started much chillier than anyone expected.

Just two days before opening weekend, Arrowtown Swim Club and stakeholders were informed by QLDC that the Arrowtown Memorial Pool’s boiler had failed and would not be replaced for the 2025/26 season. The boiler, installed as a temporary solution during Alpine Aqualand’s upgrades, lasted only four years. Before that, the pool relied on an older solar-heating system, which, while limited, still provided some warmth for young swimmers.

With both systems out of action, the pool is running entirely unheated, with water temperatures around 17 degrees. Despite this setback, the club committed to making lessons work safely, adapting schedules, supporting families, and ensuring children can still enjoy learning to swim. The club is actively working with QLDC and Arrowtown Ward representatives to explore interim solutions to heat the pool this season.

QLDC informed the club that a new heating source is planned as part of an Energy Replacement Project next season, and that replacing the boiler this year isn’t feasible as it would only be used for an estimated nine weeks before being decommissioned. While this may make sense from an asset perspective, leaving the community pool unheated this season is unacceptable, as it serves not only Arrowtown but the wider region. Immediate action is needed to ensure the pool remains usable and safe for local children.

“Arrowtown Swim Club is determined to make this season count for our kids,” says club secretary Airini Edmunds. “The lack of heating is far from ideal, but the spirit of our swimmers, families, and volunteers has been incredible. The kids were grinning from ear to ear on night one, cold, but loving it.”

“After a lot of disappointment, we're really looking forward to the solarpowered heating next year,” adds Club President Hana Jones. “Having a consistently warm pool will be a game-changer. The swim club has been part of the community since 1969, and this investment ensures it remains a valued local asset for years to come.”

Lessons run December to February for children aged 4 to 13. Fees are $35 for one child or $60 for two or more. Families can sign up at arrowtownswimclub@gmail.com - wetsuits and big smiles encouraged!

7

situations vacant Revolve Hair – Join our boutique, highend salon in beautiful Arrowtown and grow your career.

We offer: Flexible hours & great work–life balance Supportive, creative environment Strong earning potential & incentives Ongoing training and career growth Sound like you?

Email your cv to info@revolverhair.com or dm @revolverhair to chat!

Gold Nugget – RETAIL ASSISTANT Friendly/efficient team person required for large busy retail shop. Must work weekends/speak good English.

Phone Lara 0274 808 804 thegoldnuggetarrowtown@gmail.com

The entire range on display and available at

18 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown 021486620 Located in the Italian quarter between Little Aosta and Bianca Giovi

8

ARROWTOWN TRADE SERVICES E L E C T R I C A L

&

H V A C

season’s greetings from arrowtown medical & health With the refresh of our medical rooms nearly complete, Arrowtown Medical & Health (AMH) is now fully set up to provide comprehensive GP care to Arrowtown and the wider district. Our updated facilities at 1 Berkshire Street are designed to make healthcare more accessible and patient‑focused.

We know many in our community require regular blood tests, so we are pleased to announce that phlebotomy services are now available right here in our clinic. No need to travel—your blood testing can be done locally, saving time and effort.

We are also preparing to receive a full stock of vaccines. With school holidays approaching, this is the perfect opportunity to ensure your children are up‑to‑date with their vital immunisations.

It’s been wonderful to welcome new patients each day. We encourage anyone considering enrolment to join us early—this allows us to transfer your notes in advance so our doctors are ready to support your health needs the moment you require care.

Alongside Drs Val Miller and Anne‑Thea McGill, we now have three highly experienced nurses— Rachael, Bec, and Caro—who collaborate closely with the doctors to provide seamless care.

The clinical team is supported by our Healthcare Assistant Bethany and our admin team of locals, MJ and Diana.

AMH will remain open throughout the Christmas period, closing only for statutory holidays. Hours are 9am–5pm weekdays and For any help with 9am–12pm Saturdays. We also immigration matters, welcome travellers from across contact us: Aotearoa and overseas, so please Helena Smith 027 834 5473 let your summer guests know we Wendy Baker 021 184 3309 are here to help. hello@arrowtownimmigration.nz Phone: 03 442 0144 www.arrowtownimmigration.nz Web: arrowmedhlth.nz Email: admin@arrowmedhlth.nz 9

strange goods preloved fashion market returns Arrowtown shoppers are in for a treat this December, with the Strange Goods Market popping up at the Arrowtown Athenaeum Hall on Sunday, 14 December.

Running from 9am to 3pm, the market will offer a relaxed, sustainable shopping experience, with a wide range of quality pre-loved clothing and unique finds — all at affordable prices and just in time for Christmas. Entry is free, and organisers are promising plenty of good vibes alongside great bargains.

Adding a special touch this year, local repair specialist Rebecca from Fix Up Queenstown will be on hand to offer on-the-spot clothing repairs and alterations, helping shoppers breathe new life into their favourite finds.

Organisers say the event is all about making fashion more sustainable while keeping things fun and accessible for the community.

10

upcoming events

december – january

december

on until 1 Feb

30x30 Art Exhibition

Lakes District Museum Gallery 9 am – 5 pm

14

Strange Good Preloved Fashion Market

Athenaeum Hall 9 am – 3 pm

18

Tiny Room Concert

It’s Xmas All Over Again!

Blue Door 6.30 pm & 8.30 pm

Julian Temple Band Summer Run!

Slow Cuts 7.30 pm – Free

28

humanitix.com

undertheradar.co.nz

january

10

110th Lake Hayes A&P Show

Lake Hayes Showgrounds from 8 am lakehayesshow.com

the arrowtown community nursery is almost open!

On Saturday, 18 October, we celebrated the Arrowtown Community Nursery's opening and thanked the sponsors and volunteers who made it possible. Since then, the Arrowtown Choppers team has been finalising preparations to get the site ready for productive planting. Once operational, the volunteer-run nursery will grow up to 8,000 native trees each year for planting in the hills around Arrowtown, adding to the 30,000 beech trees already established. The nursery is located in the new Tewa Banks development, next to the golf course off Jopp Street. Please note the area is still under construction — no “nosies” just yet.

Keen to help? Sign up: nursery@arrowtownchoppers.co.nz to be kept in the loop on the volunteer session dates. Come join! We'd love to see you!

On behalf of The Arrowtown Community Nursery and the Arrowtown Choppers Committee.

11

YOUR ONE-STOP SOLUTION FOR QUALITY PROPERTY CARE Locally owned and operated by Spencer Duckers, an experienced tradesperson of over 28yrs.

Spencer places attention to detail in every aspect of his work to deliver the highest quality. No job too small!

From basic handyman tasks and painting to maintenance, decking, or even window-cleaning, you can trust Spencer to deliver quality and reliability every time.

12

• Handyman

• Shed Construction

• Painting

• Gutter Cleaning

• Decorating

• Lawn Mower Servicing

• Window Cleaning

• Gardening

• Fencing & Decking

• Furniture Restoration

• Joinery & Carpentry

• Odd-Jobs

• Shower Glass Restoration

• General Maintenance

Contact Spencer to have a chat about what work needs doing and receive a free, no obligation quote.

027 777 3623 duxpropertyservices.co.nz spencer@duxpropertyservices.co.nz

fresh new taps flowing at the new orleans hotel Arrowtown’s longest-standing watering hole, the New Orleans Hotel, has just lifted the bar - literally - with the installation of a brand new range of beer taps.

The upgrade brings 17 exciting new products from Lion and Canyon Breweries, giving locals and visitors more choice than ever before.

Whether you’re in the mood for a crisp lager, a bold craft brew, or something a little different, there’s now a tap for every taste.

But the refresh doesn’t stop at beer. The New Orleans is also pouring cider, cocktails, and Guinness, all served icy cold and ready to enjoy.

With summer in full swing, there’s no better place to savour a cold drink than on the hotel’s large, sunny outdoor terrace - a favourite spot for soaking up Arrowtown’s charm.

Drop in, explore the new lineup, and raise a glass to the New Orleans Hotel’s latest chapter.

BOEN TEAPR

NEW

ORLE

ANS PRESENTS FRESH

NEW

CLOUDY

APPLE CIDER 4. l 2 % Alc b y V o

C O N TAI N S

SULPHITES

FOLLOW US ON – TIKTOK & INSTA @NEW_ORLEANS_ARROWTOWN

13

MAXIMISE YOUR SEASONAL ADVANTAGE WITH BAYLEYS THIS

Your local experienced salesperson, here to make it happen.

Whether you’re ready to sell, curious about your property’s value, or planning your next move, I’ll guide you with care, strategy, and local insight.

Your perfect buyer could be house-hunting right now.

Let’s get your property sold this summer.

Sarah Lichtenstein 021 665 892 | sarah.lichtenstein@bayleys.co.nz ARROWTOWN REALTY PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT

ALTOGETHER BETTER

14

Residential / Commercial / Rural / Property Services

ARROWTOWN REALTY PARTNERS LTD, BAYLEYS, LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

arrowtown school report The Junior School tamariki have been doing some important learning about the meaning of Christmas. We have been supporting our tamariki to think of others, show generosity, and contribute in meaningful toavailable our community.

The entire range onways display and at We have collected food and toy donations which we delivered to the wonderful volunteers at Baskets of 18 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown Blessing.

Our donations will get added 021486620 to the Christmas hampers that Baskets of Blessing distribute to families Located in the Italian quarter between throughout the Wakatipu basin.

Little Aosta and Bianca Giovi Some students from year 5 & 6 made chocolate truffles, coconut ice, gift cards and Christmas decorations for the baskets. Ka pai kids!

Baskets of Blessing do a wonderful job year round and we are proud to support their important Christmas mahi.

Bespoke kitchens on display and available to order at

18 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown 021486620 Located in the Italian quarter between Little Aosta and Bianca Giovi

15

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 Slithy Toves slithytoves33@gmail.com 021 079 6233 flowers The Arrowtown Flower Company thearrowtownflowercompany.co.nz 021 946 836 handyman services Dux Property Services duxpropertyservices.co.nz 027 777 3623 hairdressers D’OR Hair Stylists Unit 14, Royal Oak Complex, Arrow Lane 03 442 1890 health & beauty Back on Track Physiotherapy 57 Buckingham St 03 442 6616 Massage Therapist Renata Garbin www.renatagarbin.nz 021 0256 4680 Unichem Arrowtown Pharmacy 20 Buckingham St 03 442 0975 Immigration Arrowtown Immigration HS 027 834 5473 43 Ramshaw Lane WB 021 184 3309 law Aspiring Law www.aspiringlaw.co.nz 4 Buckingham Street 0800 277 529 photography toddweeksphoto todd.weeks@bayleys.co.nz 021 645 022 plumber Queenstown Plumbing & Gas Ltd PO Box 250, Arrowtown 03 441 8071 16

retail The Jade & Opal Factory 30 Buckingham St 03 442 1654 real estate Bayleys 36 Buckingham St 03 442 1616 Colliers Candice & Vera 027 630 1283/021 059 6266 Harcourts Arrowtown 021 288 3454 Sotheby’s 50 Buckingham St 03 442 0121 Walker & Co. 4/23 11th Ave, Lake Hayes 027 298 4123

community services

in an emergency phone........................ 111 Arrowtown School 9 Chalmers Place 03 442 1854 Arrowtown Medical & Health 1 Berkshire St 03 442 0144 Community Policing Centre 57 Buckingham St 03 442 1274 Fire Brigade facebook.com/Arrowtownfire 2 Hertford St 03 442 1740 Justice of the Peace Russell Heckler 027 284 8814 Mr A. MacDonald 03 409 8102 Tracey McLaren 027 221 8196 Richard Newman 027 497 0138 Roger Wilson 027 433 5353 Library 58 Buckingham St 03 442 1607 Museum/Gallery/Information Centre 49 Buckingham St 03 442 1824 Plunket 20 Cardigan St 0800 933 922 Post Office 52 Buckingham St 03 442 1885 Wasp Man free wasp nest extermination Russell Heckler 027 284 8814

local club notices 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.

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 Arrowtown Library 03 442 1607 Mothers group, 2nd & 4th Tuesdays of Hours: Mon–Fri 10 am–5 pm. Sat 10 am– the month, 11–1 pm. Gold coin donation.

2 pm. Reading to Dogs: Tues 3.30–4.30 pm, All welcome. For all current information, during School Term Time.

LIKE the Arrowtown Plunket Arrowtown Menzshed 027 284 8814 Facebook page.

The Menzshed (Preston's Drive) is Shotover Country Music Club open daily for members. An annual fee Christmas Party on Sun 21 December of $25 plus $2 donation per visit allows 1.30 – 4.30 pm. Guest Artist: Margaret all facilities to be used for woodworking Bates, Raffles, afternoon tea, visitors and community projects. New members welcome. Arrowtown Community Centre, welcome. Phone Russell Heckler next to the Rugby Grounds. Contact: 027 2848814 for info.

Barbara Kerr 027 229 7244 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.

Wakatipu Garden Club

We meet on the 2nd Monday every month. New members welcome. For further information. Contact Jennie Burt 0273060415.

Whakatipu Line Dancers

020 4111 9081

MON: Absolute Beginners ~ 9am-10am Beginners/Improver ~ 10am-12pm WED: Improver/Intermediate ~ 10am1:30pm Lake Hayes Pavilion. All Welcome.

Cost $10. mollycrawford56@gmail.com

FREE to place local club information, email details to thelooparrowtown@gmail.com 17

SOLD IN THE PAST MONTH

ANOTHER SOLD

97 COTTER AVENUE ARROWTOWN

ANOTHER SOLD

30 ESSEX AVENUE ARROWOWN

ANOTHER SOLD

7 ADVANCE TERRACE ARROWTOWN

ANOTHER SOLD

5 ADAMSON DRIVE ARROWTOWN

SOLD Off-market

ARROWTOWN

Hamish Walker Director & Salesperson 027 298 4123 teamhamish@walkerandco.co.nz ANDCO REALTY 19 LIMITED; LICENSED REAA 2008

Walkerandco.co.nz