Wanaka Sun | 16 - 22 April 2020 | Edition 970

Dangerous dogs

INSIDE THIS WEEK Views: Page 9 Jobs: Page 11 Sport: Page 12

Family sheep mauled.

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Number-8-wire-shiela Jude Battson reins.

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THUR 16.04.20 - WED 22.04.20

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Immigrant workers could become a ‘humanitarian crisis’

PHOTO: QLDC

QLD Major Jim Boult is worried we may have a ” humanitarian crisis” on our hands.

PHOTO: Wānaka Sun

3000 immigrants in the QLD could be in dire straits, left high and dry with no income and no way of getting home.

Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

n a video update, Queenstown Lakes District (QLD) Mayor Jim Boult expressed his concern over the fate of the districts 3000 – 4000 migrant workers.

4285 have registered on the QLD database (as of April 13) to receive a Civil Defence grant of $240 per week to tide them through unemployment during the lockdown.

“By the time you pay your rent, your food bill and top up your phone there is not a lot of change out of that and they have to live pretty frugally,” Boult said.

“Let's not forget that these folk got the district to where it was before coronavirus,” he said. “The workers who staffed the hotels and the bars and the restaurants and like - they are a very vital part of creating our industry. Most of them are out of work.”

Boult said the Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) had always estimated there to be around 3000 migrant workers in the district at any one time. But if anything the estimate was conservative. It could be 3500; it could be 4000, he said.

“We found out on April 13 we had 4285 of

I

these folk registered on our database. Currently, they are receiving a grant through Civil Defence of $240 per person per week to live on.

“What is worrying me is that going by the numbers we are seeing we will end up with about 4500 of these people on the list looking for assistance and at $240 times 4500 that's $1,080,000 per week has to be found to fund the issue.”

When the lockdown finishes the Civil Defence money goes away, he said, and there will be no income for these people.

“Also, at the moment, they cannot be evicted from their accommodation. After lockdown finishes, they may well be evicted.

“I am anxious that we will have something approaching a humanitarian crisis on our hands with folk unable to be fed and nowhere to live.”

Boult said that “right now” a fair bit of his time was spent convincing the government that it needed to pick up the problem.

“A few people have said “pop them on planes and allow them to go back to their home countries”, but unfortunately we don't have too many planes flying around the world at the moment, and these people don't have any money (to pay for flights), so it would have to be funded by the government. It is an option, and I'm

hopeful that some will be offered this option to go home, but it is a real problem.”

Seasonal work contractor Gary Ford said his crew from Vanuatu were the lucky ones in that they had work harvesting the grape season and somewhere to stay for the lockdown.

But many seasonal workers had finished their regulatory six month stay in New Zealand and were due to go home but were now stuck in limbo. And there were many workers in the tourism industry made redundant and left high and dry, he said.

“We have some Vanuatu boys come in for our whole season, on rotation throughout the year.

We get them in April, and they generally go home late October and then we have some others that come out in November who go home in April.

“The people we brought out for the moment all have work. The big problem there has been a cyclone going through the islands, and so they have that worry, and with no flight going they don't know when they are going to be able to go home or what they will do once the harvest is over.

“We are about halfway through the grape harvest.

It's been erratic because normally we run bigger crews, but because of MPI’s social distancing rules, we have to match eight people with a plot. It's a

slower-paced harvest which is good in some ways because the work tends to wear people out and make them more susceptible to illness.

“At the moment we have quite a few backpackers because we haven't been able to get all the boys out from the islands.”

Backpackers are particularly lucky because they have somewhere to stay for lockdown, had to have an address and a bubble. When not harvesting, they are at that place, Ford said.

“They are also lucky they had somewhere to work within the rules with MPI as to how we work social distancing.

“I think those in the grape industry will be busy. But there are a lot of seasonal workers around the Queenstown Lakes District left high and dry,” Ford said.

Boult said: “Our migrant workforce aren’t eligible for any other support from Work and Income and may play an important part in our region’s recovery. “Remember: your migrant workforce are also eligible for the wage subsidy if you have laid them off, you can re-employ them and apply for the wage subsidy to ensure they retain some level of income. We expect to see more demand for welfare in the coming weeks as the 12-week subsidy nears the end.”

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Mt Iron development denied resource consent Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

Mt Iron Junction Ltd owner Stephen Schikker is disappointed that resource consent for a mixeduse development at the base of Mt Iron has been declined.

Schikker had applied to the Queenstown Lakes District council to be allowed to build a service station, workers’ accommodation, terrace housing, a child care centre and a mini golf facility on a 5.8ha triangular allotment bounded by SH84 to the south and SH6 to the east.

The site was zoned rural general and classified as an "other rural landscape,” but counsel for the applicant had argued it was now more urban or semi-urban in character.

In their judgement handed down last Tuesday, commissioners Ian Munro (chairman), Jane Taylor and Jane Sinclair said the proposed development was likely to be "jarring" and was of

a scale and intensity of use that was "significantly greater than any existing activity close by.”

All commissioners agreed the noncomplying activity would have had adverse effects on the landscape; on visual and character aspects; on the network of Wanaka’s commercial centres; and that the cumulative effects of the proposal would draw a large volume of visitors into a predominantly rural setting.

Schikker said while the commissioners stated the application was "a solutions-based application proposal and had many positive effects", the underlying rural general zone appeared to have been too restrictive to allow them to give consent.

The Mt Iron Junction directors were considering their options, including whether to lodge an appeal in the Environment Court.

PHOTO: pat deavoll

A six-hectare section beneath Mt Iron has been denied resource consent for development.

Coronavirus update: What will alert level 3 look like?

A dangerous dog issue?

Family sheep mauled

Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

Statistics: • The total number of coronavirus cases in the Southern District Health Board on Wednesday 15 was 210.

• The total number of cases in the Queenstown Lakes District was 83.

• The number of confirmed cases in New Zealand on this date was 1386.

• The number of new cases on this day nationally was 20.

• The total number of deaths nationally was 9: four on Tuesday.

• The number of those recovered from coronavirus nationally was 728.

• The southern region leads the country with the highest number of coronavirus cases.

The government will this week provide much-anticipated details on what New Zealand can expect when the country goes back into alert level 3, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said at the national briefing, TV1, Wednesday.

Ardern said that the government was working with the retail and hospitality sectors - and would do so with primary industries as well - on what levels 3 and 2 would look like.

While details of alert level 3 were still being worked through, "we would expect to see a greater number of businesses trading".

This would lead to more workers travelling on the roads, and police attention would be focused on people clearly breaking the rules, such as big gatherings.

Ardern rejected any suggestion the government would ease the lockdown early.

"Just remember, one case can lead to a massive outbreak. What matters is not just the numbers but what they tell us," she said at the daily 1pm coronavirus briefing.

"If we have cases where we don't know

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PHOTO: Kim Fogelberg

Kim Fogelberg said the sheep were a much-loved part of the community, “always keen to have a chat with anyone who showed interest in them as they walked or biked past their paddock.”

Joanna Perry

newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield: We are past the peak.

where they came from, we have to make sure there's no iceberg underneath."

She did not, she said, want to waste the good work of New Zealanders of the past three weeks of lockdown.

Ardern said the government would be providing some guidance around what alert level 3 and 2 would look like today (Thursday).

Cabinet wouldl decide whether New Zealand would drop to alert level 3 on, or about, Thursday next week.

New Zealand was at alert level 3 for just a couple of days before going into alert level 4 some 23 days ago.

The level three guidance included restrictions on travelling, public gatherings and the closure of affected educational facilities.

Specifically, it said alert level 3 was designed for a scenario where there was "heightened risk the disease was not contained".

PHOTO: Wānaka Sun

Coming back down from alert level 4 would be different, Ardern said.

Alert level 3 should be considered a "waiting room".

"A place we move to that allows a bit more activity to occur, but not so much that we risk losing all the gains we have made," she said.

"This is the place we go while we check that we genuinely have things under control, and that we are on track to stamp out the virus."

With only 20 new cases yesterday, Ardern appeared optimistic but she warned New Zealanders not to get complacent.

"Our number of cases may be small, but that doesn't mean we have yet been successful in hunting the virus down."

She reiterated that border restrictions would be in place for "a long time to come".

Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield said; “We are past the peak.”

THURSDAY 16.04.20 - WEDNESDAY 22.04.20

The owners of a ten acre lifestyle block in Hāwea Flat experienced the “worst Easter of their lives” when their two hand-reared merino sheep were mauled by two dogs last Saturday.

Kim Fogelberg, who lives with her partner on McLennan Road, said the sheep were “very much family members” and a “much-loved part of our local community.” The ewe, Betty, was expected to make a full recovery after receiving stitches but, tragically, Barney the ram did not survive.

Fogelberg told the Wānaka Sun she was disappointed with the response from police and council over the Easter weekend and that, with her partner working in Christchurch, she was left to “do the detective work” on her own to find the dogs responsible.

It was confirmed after investigation that the dogs, a staffie and a black dog, belonged to a worker at the nearby Devon Dairy Farm. According to Fogelberg, the owner had “behaved very remorsefully” and “acted quickly to take the burden off [her] shoulders.”

Devon Dairy Farms were not

available to comment.

Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) spokesperson Jack Barlow confirmed that “the owner determined it was appropriate to voluntarily euthanize the two dogs involved,” and this took place on Tuesday morning. He added that QLDC officers were made aware of the attack over the weekend and attempted to contact the owner of the sheep at that time as part of their investigation, before continuing the investigation on Tuesday morning.

QLDC were still investigating another attack last month, in which 43 sheep were killed on Glenfoyle Station when two dogs escaped from a local dog homestay. Fogelberg said that after receiving calls and messages from concerned Wanaka residents, she believed there was “a dangerous dog issue in Wānaka and Hāwea.”

“There have been multiple events, and anyone who lives on a small farmlet, lifestyle block or larger farm has real fear for good reasons. Many have suffered incidents and feel the council is not doing enough to address the issues,” she said.

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Mayor Boult begins 'what next' conversation Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

Now's the time to start planning for the future, Queenstown Lakes District Mayor Jim Boult said.

We are entering what will undoubtedly be the toughest economic situation our district has ever seen, and we need to start planning for the future, Boult said.

"The reality of the situation is that no other district in New Zealand will be affected economically to the same extent our district will.

"For much of the country, tourism is a part of their economy. For us, it primarily is our economy. The upcoming period is akin to a war, and a war we must win. The future of our district depends on the actions that we will take in the coming months.

"Right now, the task might seem daunting, especially alongside the significant response work underway as we all do our utmost to contain the spread of coronavirus and break the chain of infection. Practically everybody in our district is doing what needs to be done to rid us of the disease. Still, while we are in lockdown, we need to start planning how we navigate through our current situation to be in the best possible position once the lockdown is lifted.

"Within the council, we have had many discussions on how we go about this. Councillors and I have agreed that this is not a task for any single person or organisation. The key here is that we need to enable and empower conversations which give locals, community groups, businesses and investors some pathways for how we will collectively rebuild this district and create a truly prosperous community. To do that we need voices with enough mana to make the central government sit up and take notice. We have always had a reputation as a community that is self-reliant, entrepreneurial, and pulls together, and we need these qualities now more than ever.

"We have concluded that this process falls under two separate but interlinked headings – community recovery and economic recovery.

Our plan now is to bring together a steering group of suitable people from throughout the district. They will need to come from a range of backgrounds and interests to shape the terms of

PHOTO: QLDC

Jim Boult: Now is the time to start planning for the future.

reference, and the make-up of both recovery task forces. Experience in times of crisis means that we don't know what the answers are, so there is no blueprint; the work of the task forces will be to explore and provide innovative ideas for the future for the whole community."

Mayor Boult proposed that the council could help facilitate the essential conversations ahead.

Still, he clarified that this needed to be led by representative groups that reflected the holistic wellbeing of the district's communities: social, economic, environmental and cultural.

"I've spoken with a number of highly successful individuals from a variety of fields who live either full or part-time in the district and who are willing to put their hands up to assist voluntarily as part of this conversation. I would hope to see them come together in some form, perhaps along the lines of the Mayoral Housing Taskforce of 2017 or the more recent community-developed Vision Beyond 2050," Boult said.

"Whatever form it takes, the conversation needs to start now. We need big thinkers, innovators, experts in their field. This district needs to come together and talk about what we want to be in the coming years. If ever there was an opportunity or clearer signal to focus on the work that we have been doing to diversify our economy beyond its reliance on the visitor sector, then this is it."

A recovery-focused team within council is considering options for how a group could be convened in a way that reflects Boult's comments, as well as the role that council can play to facilitate and support discussions.

Boult noted that he had canvassed the proposal with councillors, and said he would provide a further update in the coming weeks as progress was made on bringing a group together.

Minister for the Environment calls in proposed ORC plan changes Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

The Otago Regional Council (ORC) has received letters from Minister for the Environment, David Parker, signalling his decision to “call in” the Water Permits Plan Change and Water Quality Plan Changes and refer them to the Environment Court.

The council voted on February 26 to write to the minister and formally request the plan changes be called in, due to the need for them to be completed in a timely manner.

ORC Chair Marian Hobbs expressed her thanks to Parker for his support.

“We are grateful that the minister has agreed with our request to call in these plan changes and refer them to the Environment Court. This will shorten the lengthy process of finalising plan changes, and deliver certainty for Otago communities much sooner.

“Parker outlined in his letter to this council last year a series of steps that are needed to implement a fit for purpose framework for freshwater management.

We have been working hard to deliver these urgent steps, and the minister’s support will now enable us to complete them as swiftly as possible.”

Parker advised that he considered the plan changes to be of national significance with regard to a range of factors. His decision sought to assist ORC by allowing staff to focus on developing a new Land and Water Regional Plan (LWRP), and to avoid potential delays associated with the standard consultation process that could complicate development of the LWRP. In light of the minister’s direction, council considered an amended motion from Councillor Noone on Plan Change 8 and Plan Change 1 (last Wednesday). A majority voted in support

of the motion to ask the EPA for further consultation with mandatory parties and sector representatives prior to notification.

Council will propose a facilitator for that process to the EPA. PHOTO: ORC Plan Change 7 to the ORC Chair Marian Hobbs. water plan was notified for submissions on March 18. It provided an interim measure to give those who take freshwater from Otago waterways short-term permits based on how much water they were currently using. The Plan Change 7 will now be re-notified for submissions by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA).

The Water Quality Plan Changes institute has new provisions in Otago’s waste and water plans to protect freshwater quality and align with central government regulations and policy. The EPA will now take over notification of these plan changes for submissions ahead of hearings in the Environment Court.

Hobbs assured the public that the call-in decision would not diminish their ability to have their say on the plan changes.

“The public will have a chance to make submissions on the plan changes and to participate in hearings. Speaking at the Environment Court hearings does not require legal representation and the court will sit in Otago.

“These plan changes are the last in the immediate work programme for managing water in Otago,” Hobbs said. “We can now turn our full attention to working with communities to continue to review and develop a new Regional Policy Statement and Land and Water Regional Plan.”

Otago Civil Defence and Emergency Management thanks Otago Joanna Perry

newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

Group Controller Richard Saunders said there were very few reports of people trying to travel unnecessarily over the Easter weekend.

“It has been heartening to see Otago residents understand the importance of staying home and protecting themselves, their family and the wider community,” said Saunders.

Acting District Commander Darryl Sweeney said that police were also pleased with the compliance and continue to monitor the southern region.

Saunders also had a message of gratitude for essential workers for whom the Easter weekend was business as usual.

“The efforts of our essential workers have not gone unnoticed. Health care workers, laboratory staff, supermarkets, the transport sector, and emergency service personnel have all continued to serve and care for us over Easter, many sacrificing time with their own families. I’d like to thank them on behalf of Otago.”

As New Zealand continues week three of the Level 4 restrictions, Saunders cautioned the

THE WĀNAKA SUN

Acting District Commander Richard Saunders.

PHOTO: ORC

public against becoming complacent.

“It has been encouraging to see fewer new cases of coronavirus in the Southern DHB over the past few days, especially since we have had the highest number of cases in the country to date.

“However, we are still in Alert Level 4, and although things are going well, we haven’t won yet. We don’t yet know when we will move into Level 3, and we don’t want to go backwards.

“We must continue to stick within our bubbles and stay united in our fight against coronavirus.”

THURSDAY 16.04.20 - WEDNESDAY 22.04.20

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Maternity manager appointment a relief Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

A project manager has been appointed to advance the establishment of maternity services for Wāānaka and Central Otago.

Waitaki MP Jacqui Dean “I’m relieved that there is some good news from the Southern DHB at a time when we all need it, in the middle of a national and global crisis, and that we are

one step closer to the development of Wānaka’s Maternal and Child Hub. “It’s a step in the right direction but there’s still a long way to go before the public can have confidence in the DHB’s ability to deliver effective maternity services.

“There have been repeated delays, first to December and then a further delay to early this year. This has been worrying, because of the damning report from Ernst & Young about the

DHB’s performance on maternity issues.

This was an issue dear to her heart, said Dean, because for Wānaka’s expectant mums and midwives, the nearest birthing unit was three and-a-half hours away at the nearest base hospital, and the delays to get to this point had been incredibly frustrating. This had been a long and drawn out process.

“Unfortunately, the establishment of a birthing unit will be held up further because of the

pandemic,” said Dean.

“However, the appointment of a maternity strategy manager in March, on a one-year fixedterm contract, is a move in the right direction to manage the task, and I’m glad that there is positive progress. The community has been waiting for the development for nearly 18 months.

“I’m relieved that there has been some action at last to meet the needs of Wānaka’s mums and babies.”

Luggate Red Bridge out of action No lockdown call-outs for Pat Deavoll Wānaka Search & Rescue editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

Essential services and workers who use the road between Wānaka and Tarras, State Highway 8A, will need to take a detour route during daytimes from next week, after Easter.

Important safety repair work on the Luggate Red Bridge deck will get underway from Tuesday 14, aiming to be completed by Friday 24.

“As this repair work is focused on the bridge deck, we need to close the bridge to all traffic between 8am and 5pm on weekdays,” said Mark Stewart, maintenance contract manager, Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency.

Detours will be in place via Camp Hill Road.

Drivers will be redirected with temporary detour signage.

“Usually we try to undertake the kind of work that requires road closures in the evening, where possible, to minimise the impact to most road users,” he said.

“However, with an emphasis on additional health and safety measures to be used while at

PHOTO: ORC

Expect a detour to miss out on the Luggate Red Bridge for the next week.

Level 4 for the Covid-19 Lockdown, working during the daytime makes it that much simpler PHOTO: Wānaka SAR and safer for our essential services highway Nicholson said things have been quiet for the Wānaka SAR team, but they were nevertheless “well prepared for workers. With the significant drop in traffic right a response in this current coronavirus environment, and ready to go should the need arise.” now, daytime repairs are the safest option. environment, and ready to go should the need arise.”

Joanna Perry “People will need to build in extra time on The team will be running on minimum newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz their journeys as delays can be expected for the numbers to help ensure physical distancing, duration of the project,” said Stewart. Work is Chairman for Wānaka Search & Rescue (Wānaka with protocols around disinfecting people expected to take two weeks.

SAR) Aaron Nicholson has confirmed that his and equipment, and using personal protective team of volunteers have had “no calls for service equipment where necessary.

Looking ahead, Nicholson anticipated that over the lockdown timeframe,” hailing it an “once restrictions are lifted to the appropriate “excellent outcome thus far.”

His statement comes after calls from local and level and if we are still enjoying some good national authorities for individuals to stay at home weather, people will head out into the hills and over the Easter weekend, and after enforcement onto the water,” he said. “We suggest they take a orders came into effect giving authorities the power deep breath and don't rush that process. Think to arrest individuals who were still hunting, fishing about doing this safely as always, remembering the five point Outdoor Safety Code. or boating after alert level 4 lockdown began.

1. Plan your trip well.

As Queenstown Lakes District Harbourmaster 2. Tell someone reliable where you are going Marty Black said, “if you get into trouble you are and when you will be back. not only risking your own life but also the lives 3. Check the weather forecast. of rescuers, emergency services and medical 4. Know your limits. (no one intentionally goes professionals who are busy enough as it is into the backcountry to get lost or injured). responding to the pandemic.”

PHOTO: Pixabay 5. Take adequate supplies for a worst case Nicholson said things have been quiet for the Open homes no more? How are houses being managed scenario (including a reliable form of Wānaka SAR team, but they were nevertheless “well during lockdown, and what does the future hold? communication). prepared for a response in this current coronavirus effect for those intending on moving houses or settling through late March to early May. Anna Findlay from Ray White Wānaka explained that, “since lockdown, real estate has invariably been Joanna Perry a lot quieter. However we still have sold property newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz conditional properties have been confirmed since the lockdown went in place and three properties As the first snow appeared on the mountain this have sold that have gone under contract since week, the manager of Harris Mountains Heli-Ski lockdown. One of these was a house that the buyers has said that “the snow sports industry is facing did a virtual walk through with the vendors so the toughest challenge I’ve seen in my thirty they had not viewed the home themselves. A small years of involvement” due to the Covid-19 crisis.

PHOTO: Scott Mazey Hugh Barnard told the Wānaka Sun that, like With early snow on the hills we’ll inevitably have a number of properties were withdrawn from the many businesses including the ski fields, the cracker of a winter conditions wise. market when we went into lockdown.”

Some, like Hannah Walker from Proppy, said company, which covers more territory than any “With a customer base constituting that the potential for online real estate has never other operator, was “unable to make clear plans while approximately 70 per cent overseas guests, we are been greater, and that in the future “it will become uncertainty exists as to what level of coronavirus evaluating all options to maintain a viable business more acceptable to complete online auctions and response we as a country will be at come July 2020 - as we move towards winter,” he said, adding that he negotiations online. At Proppy we have been doing the start of our regular operating window.” was exploring options for downsizing to operate at Following Cardrona Manager Bridget a scale that fits the realities of a domestic market. these things for the last four years and have a successful Legnavsky’s announcement last week, in which platform [for coping] with social distancing.”

However, he also emphasized the company’s Winslow added, “Before the lock down we knew she shared hopes for a local or domestic-based ski determination to operate if allowed.”Our kiwi and people started their research on the internet and season, Barnard noted that the heli-ski industry has local guests have been great supporters of the business going forward, we will all be using these mediums “a higher reliance on overseas guests than many over many years, and we’re keen to offer them an even more than before. Walk through videos other winter operators.” Even national alert level 1, ongoing service and to work with our partners across will be more popular. Anything that minimises while allowing free movement domestically, would the community as we have for the past forty years.” the need for a client to get out of their bubble. still effectively shut down international tourism. It “And, of course, with early snow on the However at the end of the day, most people will is also more complicated to ensure social distancing hills we’ll inevitably have a cracker of a winter within the confines of a helicopter. still need to view a home in person.” conditions wise!” he added.

Real estate lockdown: what’s happening?

Ollie Blyth

journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz

It’s going to be a wild ride for industry coming out of lockdown. As a region reliant on tourism as its main source of income, it’s no secret that business in the Upper Clutha is going to look different for a substantial amount of time.

One particular industry that has left a few unanswered questions and isn’t heavily involved in tourism has been the real estate industry.

Whilst no one can predict the future, it wouldn’t be surprising to see a fair amount of change in the way properties are bought, sold, and rented in the next few months.

When the country first entered alert level four, restrictions around property management were put in place; there is now a freeze on rent increases; tenancies cannot be terminated (unless the parties mutually agree to); and tenants can revoke termination notices that have already been given, should they need to stay at the tenancy during the lockdown period.

Lynette Winsloe from First National Wānaka explained that locally “the property managers have been negotiating between landlords and tenants.

Usually this situation is initiated by the tenant who is facing hardship for personal reasons. Some landlords have been proactive and shown concern for their tenants. Some landlords have been able to give a little, while others are not in a position to pass on any assistance. Every situation is different and is being addressed on a case by case basis.”

Any plans for moving house have been deferred until the level four restrictions are lifted. The Real Estate Institute New Zealand (REINZ) suggested all settlements be deferred until a date 10 working days after the government takes the country to alert level two or less. This will create a domino

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Snow sports: the toughest challenge in thirty years

THURSDAY 16.04.20 - WEDNESDAY 22.04.20

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How are the pets coping Wānaka artist spreads the love during lockdown?

Ollie Blyth

journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz

It’s been hard enough for all of us humans during the COVID-19 pandemic, but how are our furry friends coping?

Upon initial glance, it seems like any human dependent creature’s dream: endless attention; walks; food; pats; more walking. As put by one local dog owner, “My dogs have actually been loving it! They get so much more constant attention now I don’t know how they’ll be when we go back.”

However, some are suggesting that there is a limit on how much love you can offer your pets during the lockdown before it’s too much. Adult dogs need between 12-16 hours of sleep a day, and constant attention or excessive exercise could lead to exhaustion. Exercise regimes differ between breeds, with some dogs requiring as little as 30 minutes of high energy activity. It is important to understand your dog’s limits so that vet visits can be minimal.

Recent weeks have seen a new dialogue on coronavirus species jumps, with a tiger in New York zoo infected with the virus. While scientific knowledge of these species jumps is relatively patchy, the advice is that any pets should be treated as any other being in a bubble.

Sonia Richter’s half finished community hand painting is made of the silhouettes of people’s hands.

PHOTO: Pixabay

Are your pets getting worn out during lockdown?

A number of locals have been noting that a number of cats have been left to roam around neighbourhoods, and there is evidence to suggest that it is not a good idea right now to keep them free roaming. Some recent experiments have suggested that ferrets and cats may be able to contract the virus from humans, while dogs, pigs, chickens, and ducks are far less susceptible. Despite this, Professor David Hayman from Massey University’s school of veterinary science has said that while infection rates in the country remain low, there is a lower risk of species jumps at this stage.

While the fight to keep the human transmission rate low continues, the advice remains the same: keep your animals a part of your bubble, and make sure that they are getting what they need to stay healthy and safe.

Ollie Blyth

journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz

Local artist Sonia Richter has taken time during the lockdown to spread community spirit in the form of a collaborative art piece.

Richter explained that, “As an artist, life events often inspire artworks and a global pandemic was bound to spur a few. One morning I was scrolling through Facebook over my morning coffee and saw a post from an artist giving out ideas of things to make [and] his idea was to draw your hands on your windows so you could feel connected to people as you walked past.

“I thought I could take this further, and paint all the hands together, connecting us all in isolation. So I quickly wrote up a brief and started asking people to send me images of their hands, or their bubble’s hands together, as a symbol of

PHOTO: Supplied

connectedness and solidarity.

“So I started doodling these images on the canvas and as hands started coming in, painting the silhouettes, like cave drawings, capturing this profound time in history and fusing us all together, as one.”

Richter started the painting (pictured, half finished) on April 2 and is still accepting as many hands as possible so that the community can be “united together through art.” She hopes that the finished painting will be able to be displayed somewhere for it to be enjoyed by residents, “As a community artwork, I'd love you all to see it, so I will find a place in town to display it once we are out of lockdown.”

Submissions of hand pictures are to be sent to: sonia@soniarichter.com. Richter added that it was extra merit points for anyone who could get the prime minister’s hand.

NEWS IN BRIEF Government leads way to reimagining tourism Minister of Tourism Kelvin Davis has announced that Tourism New Zealand (TNZ) will lead work to reimagine the way we govern and manage tourism alongside MBIE, the Department of Conservation, and industry stakeholders.

This work will look at the way tourism is governed, how we market domestically and internationally, who we market to, and how we manage visitors once they’re in New Zealand.

Representing the group, both Destination Queenstown and Lake Wānaka Tourism will be involved in this process and are already looking at scenarios to assist businesses in their planning. Work on exploring ways to diversify our economy outside of tourism will form part of the recovery stage.

What happens at Level 3?

The Prime Minister will give more detailed guidance on what life at Level 3 looks like later this week. That will give a window to iron out

questions and issues, and make sure businesses and our community are as prepared as they can be when it comes time to move. It is the Prime Minister’s intention that on the April 20, two days before the lockdown is due to finish, cabinet will make a decision on next steps.

Drugs bust in Queenstown leads to arrests Three people have been arrested following a four-month-long investigation into the flow of methamphetamine into Queenstown and the surrounding area. The operation culminated on April 7 with Police executing search warrants in Queenstown and Christchurch. Two people in Queenstown were arrested and are facing numerous charges, mostly relating to the supply of methamphetamine. Detective Senior Sergeant Malcolm Inglis of Otago Lakes Central CIB says this operation should make a significant impact on the supply of methamphetamine into the Queenstown area, especially in the current conditions. Anyone affected by methamphetamine addiction is urged to seek help through the Alcohol and Drug Helpline

on 0800 787 797, or free text 1737 to speak with a trained counsellor. Police ask anyone with information regarding organised crime or drug-related offending to call 105 to report it, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Anyone with concerns for their immediate safety should call 111.

Welcome to the Stay Home Book Club A new website launched on Tuesday encourages Kiwi kids to explore new and familiar stories during the national lockdown.

Stay Home Book Club is a new online reading challenge from Read NZ Te Pou Muramura (formerly NZ Book Council). Primary and intermediate-aged children are invited to register for free and choose their team to play for.

In recognition of the fact that it’s more difficult to buy or borrow new books during the Level 4 lockdown, there are various ways that children can log an entry.

They can either read an online or print book they have already read, read a new book, listen to an audio story, or take part in an online library

session or similar.

Accompanying the Stay Home Book Club is a list of free online resources for children to choose from.

Many of these resources have been provided by the authors who are part of Read NZ’s Writers in Schools programme.

Players choose an avatar and log the stories they read or listen to, along with a star rating and short review. A leaderboard keeps track of the teams, each named after a New Zealand bird, as they move up and down the rankings accordingly.

Airport survey The survey and stakeholder engagements were completed on schedule, on March 11.

Since then MartinJenkins has been analysing and modelling the results. This includes feeding the survey and focus group insights into the analysis.Their report will be presented to counsellors in early May, and will be publicly available thereafter. It is likely QLDC will publish it on its website and advise the media and other stakeholders once it is available.

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Meeting our local achievers

Number-8-wire-sheila and community dynamo still holds the reins

Jude Battson and community board members on induction day, from left to right: Jude Battson, Chris Hadfield, Ed Taylor, Barry Bruce, Niamh Shaw. Niamh is also a council member.

Motorcycle aficionado, community board member, and local volunteer worker and general hard-woman Jude Battson.

Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

Most people in Wānaka will have heard about 60-plus-years dynamo, motorbike aficionado and living legend of the district Jude Battson.

Battson, who arrived in the Queenstown Lakes District way back in 1975, has been a member of the Wānaka Community Board numerous times. She has stood for and won a place on the Queenstown Lakes District Council, spent 20 years working for the Upper Clutha Women's Support Service, been an avid member of the Wānaka Theatre Group and taken up kite surfing at the ripe old age of 60.

Kitesurfing, she says, makes her feel young.

Battson grew up in Auckland but in 1975, aged 21, shifted to Queenstown. She'd been working as a shorthand typist since leaving school, at 15.

With a girlfriend, she arrived in Queenstown during a freezing June, but acclimatised, worked hard and enjoyed life. Queenstown was small, Wanaka was tiny, and the surrounding towns were mere dots compared to now, she says.

"In 1976, I was employed to drive a 12-tonne Bedford truck spraying weeds at Makarora. I had no truck driving experience but pretended I did.

The drive to Makarora seemed like a ride to the end of the earth. The road was gravel with six one-lane bridges and was precariously narrow in places. With the job, I became a "number-8-wiresheila", with a passion for hard physical work."

She met Chris Battson while working at Makarora and went back to live there. They married.

PAGE 6

She recalls possum trapping with Chris Battson during her first Makarora winter. The number8-wire sheila bit had to kick in, she says. They jet boated up the Wilkin, then walked through all sorts of terrain, setting the traps. That was a way of life for many in Makarora. There were some capable, hardy characters living in huts in the bush, surviving on possum stew or venison.

People were resilient and did not need lots of communication. They wrote letters, Battson says.

"Our accommodation was basic. We lived in the Ministry of Works huts joined together. It rained a lot, so clothes were often pegged indoors on lines spread across the room. It was not much fun in winter," Battson says.

The '70s were significant for the deer recovery industry, both dead and alive. Helicopters were a part of daily life in Makarora, flying out early in the morning. You could tell by the sound of the blades on their return if the catch was big or small, she says.

At the time Wānaka had two small 4 square supermarkets. Driving to Wānaka to go shopping had its moments. She remembers navigating fallen boulders, slips, dead cows, and holding her breath as volumes of water from a big storm cut in close to a single lane bridge. A marvellous brandnew bridge over Boundary Creek was washed away the year after it was constructed. Makarora folk, stranded again. Thank goodness for Bailey Bridges, she says.

Battson left Makarora to live in Barn Bay, South Westland, which could only be got to by plane.

She was pregnant, then had a baby and a toddler

PHOTOs: Supplied

A visit to the control tower at Queenstown Airport during a Wanaka Community Board tour.

to care for. Her partner was a cray-fisherman.

Generators ran the large freezers that stored the crayfish. A coal range did for cooking, and to heat water. Their house eventually washed away in a big storm, the year after she left Barn Bay. She moved to Lake Hawea in 1982 and has been there ever since. She bought a house overlooking the lake. Well, it was Ministry of Works huts joined together to make one room, she says. It had a bench with a caravan sink and one cold tap in the kitchen corner, an open fire that smoked, and gave out little warmth, no laundry, or washing machine. She hand-washed the cloth diapers, clothes and sheets.

"But I reckon we were privileged to have lived in this beaut neck of the woods during those times. When life was rather simple, very kiwi, and we laughed a lot.

"I became involved in local volunteer work and local politics. I worked with the team setting up Wastebusters, and studied horticulture in my mid 40's. I passed with full marks, so set up work in garden design and maintenance. I've planted approximately 6000 trees over the years, and as well worked 20 years for the Upper Clutha Women's Support Service. Along the way, I learned paradise is not always as it seems."

Battson stood for the Wānaka community board for the first time in 1998, and that came about because in 1997 she'd taken up the fight to save the old Wānaka town hall.

"I always thought Bullock Creek would be a hub for a botanical garden. It was very divisive as to where the new hall would go. I lost that battle.

THURSDAY 16.04.20 - WEDNESDAY 22.04.20

Jude Battson’s election poster, QLDC elections 2016.

The old town hall sold for a miserable $350,000 and on-sold to Cardrona Holdings which built the building that holds Gusto etc. The community centre went ahead and the library.

"I was on the community board until 2007, then in 2010 decided to run for the QLDC council and got in. In 2013 I missed out on council, and was devastated. All the time I'd put in from 1998 until 2013, I felt I was training for a career. To have that taken away meant that I had to work out what to do instead. I nursed my broken soul- nothing is as we imagine it as it happens to us.

"But I don't have an ego – it was easy for me to run again, but I missed out again back in 2016.

"In 2019, I decided against the council but to try for the community board again and got in.

Being on the community board is like being at a grassroots level for the community."

Lockdown is ghastly for our tourist town, Battson says, but we now have the opportunity to move forward with a focus on the environment and the community.

"Not more shitty self-contained freedom campers. Put them in the camping grounds. It is the environment- be kind to it.

"My slogan for the recent community board election was Protection before Profit," she says.

"I have four children, a gorgeous daughter-inlaw, six grandchildren, an awesome boyfriend, and feel blessed. I work as a marriage celebrant these days. I love it because I get to enjoy being around so much love.

"These things are what make me tick- what makes retirement something I look forward to."

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Locals in love with birdlife Blast from the past: Wānaka

Wacky Wheels Day Ollie Blyth

journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz

PHOTO: Janelle Fletcher

PHOTO: Brandon Acosta

Some locals are uncertain whether there are actually more birds about or because we are just around to notice them more.

Many pīwakawaka have been spotted flying through homes, in Māori culture, this is a sign of imminent death in a household - do the birds know more than we think they do about the world?

In March, Wānaka Primary School hosted a Wacky Wheels and Fancy Feet themed day.

Students decorated their shoes, bikes, scooters, and helmets with all kinds of fun designs. The day was held in conjunction with the Walk ‘n’ Wheel week that promoted active transport to and from school. The story never made it into the paper for one reason or the other- but we thought we could all do with some cheering up, and these photos will do just that.

Many opted to make extra effort with some very fancy feet.

PHOTO: Jennie Salter

The birds are providing entertainment for locals stuck at home in isolation.

Ollie Blyth

journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz

Amidst the chaos of the world climate, this week has seen an increase in the amount of native wildlife seen in the Upper Clutha. Pīwakawaka, tui, kārearea, makomako, and kōtare have been sighted in local backyards, homes, and even supermarkets.

One Māori proverb said that the pīwakawaka is a messenger bringing news of death from the gods to the people, and that if one such bird flies inside, then it will mean death is imminent.

Some Upper Clutha residents are hoping this isn’t true while others in the region believe it could be a reflection of health concerns from coronavirus.

Below are some accounts and opinions from nearly 100 posts on Facebook: Myl Bell: “Had a fantail land for about 5

PHOTO: Mark Winter

Rare falcons have been spotted around the Mount Iron/Albert Town/Three Parks area since March.

seconds on my outstretched hand in Maungawera Road a few days ago - first time ever.”

Tiffany Kemp: “Heaps of [pīiwakawaka] flying around, often in groups of 4-6. They are flying into the house quite often too - am praying the Māori proverb isn't true.”

Michelle Dowie: “We have had heaps of visits from these wee beauties and twice they have come inside since the lockdown. My mother in law passed away the day before lockdown. I like to think it's a wee sign.”

John Brake: “Came across a falcon perched on a fence in Scurr Heights whilst out the other day.

Amazed. Sadly, was unable to get a pic of it but beautiful nonetheless…”

Melissa Hooper-Greenhill: “Do you think more birds have appeared in the 10 days of lockdown or we now just have more time to notice them? Either way a lovely sight.”

These wheels sure were wacky.

Wacky Wheels and Fancy Feet Day was the wrapping up of the Walk ‘n’ Wheel to school week, which promoted active transport to and from school.

Wānaka’s country music star releases ‘musical medicine’

The whole school donned colourful apparel in support of one of six ‘tribes’.

PHOTO: Supplied

Wānaka’s favourite country music star Jody Direen has released her latest single and video ‘My Fire’ amidst the coronavirus turmoil.

Joanna Perry

newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

Wānaka’s favourite country music star Jody Direen has released her latest single and video ‘My Fire’ amidst the coronavirus turmoil, saying it's “a deeply empowering song with a global message during this surreal time.”

Direen took to Facebook to share the video with her hometown community here in Wānaka, adding that the single and video were also created here.

Direen wrote ‘My Fire’ over a two-year period pulling together and drawing inspiration from

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various personal, national and global hardships.

She said the song had a fierce heart, driving the transformation of internal pain into confidence and courage, no matter the circumstance. She added that, for the time being, the lyric "you" is coronavirus.

The Vodafone NZMA Tui Award winner believes music has the power to change an emotional state, and has an important role in times like now.

Direen said she hoped 'My Fire' would serve as “musical medicine”, replacing possible (and understandable) feelings of anxiety and stress, related to the current global crisis with courage, resilience and hope.

PHOTOS: Wānaka Primary School

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School starts again (sort of)

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How much screen time is too much screen time Ollie Blyth

journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz

School is back in session again, but not as we know it.

PHOTO: Wānaka Sun

I may be eating my words by the time it goes to print, but it seems lockdown is going quicker than expected. If it hasn’t for you, and the school holidays have been endlessly dragging on, never fear: school is here. It may not be the saving grace post holiday parents have come to know and love, but at the very least, it’s something for the kids to do.

However, now that school is being implemented through electronic devices and the internet, there are a number of new challenges for parents for keeping the kids on track. It’s a tired dialogue, but one that’s been sparked across the world: how much screen time is too much screen time?

Some argue there are few other options for young people to entertain themselves. Others maintain that children should be set a strict limit on how long they can spend on a device, even how long they can spend on certain apps. It becomes a little trickier when school is on a device.

Enter: the methods young people disguise

to minimise time spent on the computer, and to avoid sitting on a screen all day.

However, students are expected to digitally Wednesday, April 15 marked the end of the school engage with virtual communication and online holidays and the start of term two for school aged assessments/activities.

Primary schools in the region have been students in the Upper Clutha, but the start of term two will not be looking quite so familiar. Mount scheduling similar regiments, with parents being Aspiring College sent out an email to students updated via email on the latest updates.

Schools across the country have been told to last week explaining the way online school will be physically reopen for some, but not all, students functioning for the foreseeable future.

Senior NCEA level students in years 11-13 on April 29.

Recently, the Ministry of Education sent out a will be attending a minimum of two online video meetings each week per subject and are expected bulletin to schools explaining that "a hybrid model to complete the work necessary to satisfy their of both distance learning and on-site learning is very likely at least in the early stages" and that, "We want chosen NCEA courses.

Joanna Perry For junior students in years 7-10, the to reassure you that following any announcement, newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz requirements are less strict and will involve you will have some time to prepare for physically around two or three hours of work a day, reopening your school or early learning service to As we slide into what feels like week 100 of depending on the work set by teachers. All welcome back on site your staff and some, but not national lockdown, many of us might be starting to believe we have mastered our situation. We’ve students have been encouraged to try their best all, of your children/students.” made peace with the restrictions, given up on re-emerging looking like a body-builder, and perhaps even grown fond of waking up with LIPO-SACHET HARKER HERBALS nowhere to be. In fact, many people have told me LIPOSPHERIC VIT C DEEP LUNG SUPPORT they’ve relished the opportunity to get back to basics and spend time with their families.

Deep Lung Support is our • Support most powerful respiratory the normal Ironman triathlete Brendan Currie and his tonic designed to aid removal function of wife Sally are among those. As Sally Currie notes, of mucus build up in the the immune lungs and support healthy system “when life is simple, we can start to determine breathing. This trusted elixir is • Supports what our true values are - what we truly need to our most popular herbal tonic. recovery from • Clogged or ‘heavy’ lungs ills and chills be happy, to do good for others and the world and airways • Help to protect around us.”

• Support for healthy cells from And it’s definitely true that, from looking out breathing harmful free• Supports lung health radicals due to antioxidant properties for our neighbours to reducing our global carbon • Smoker’s congestion • Support the production of collagen which is footprint, the lockdown has shown us what can essential for the maintenance of the skin, blood • Those living in areas of high air pollution vessels, bones, cartilage, gums and teeth be achieved when we put our minds to it. So, with • Recovery from ills and chills • Support the formation of connective tissue to the end in sight, perhaps now is the time to reflect • Boosting the immune assist in the healing of wounds system • Support iron absorption on how we can use what we’ve learned under lockdown to shape what happens afterwards.

BOTANICA ANTIVIRUS SANDERSON Locally, we’ve all been witness to heartwarming HAND AND SURFACE SPRAY VIRAMAX 30s small acts of kindness in the last few weeks, such as online local support groups and neighbours food shopping for the vulnerable and elderly.

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Sally writes that “We can no longer say that we do not have time, and we can no longer say that one person cannot make a difference.”

She - and I - encourage you to reflect this week on how you might take that knowledge out of lockdown with you.

Locally, she suggests starting composting to Phone: 03 443 8000 Top of Helwick Street, Wānaka be less wasteful, growing your own veggies, and supporting local farms and businesses as much OPENING HOURS: 8AM TO 6PM 7 DAYS as possible. You could also focus on supporting

Ollie Blyth

journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz

PHOTO: Pixabay

The question rises once more: is my kid having too much screen time?

their off-topic online adventures while in school.

There’s the hide the phone under the desk by staring at one’s groin, the quick swipe to the empty home screen; even the ol’ trusty delete browser history. In the end, it really comes down to what your style of parenting is. Is it really worth milking the very last drop of algebra out of a kid when all they’ll remember is how boring quarantine was? Is it, though, ideal for a student to go back to school hopelessly behind the rest of the class? Your call.

Spending our time wisely: what we can take away from lockdown

PAGE 8

THURSDAY 16.04.20 - WEDNESDAY 22.04.20

PHOTO: Pixabay

When life is simple, we can start to determine what our true values are - what we truly need to be happy, to do good for others and the world around us.

your community by participating in groups, contributing something you are passionate about, or offering your time to the more vulnerable.

“Time may still be in short supply but this will be such a powerful way to re-connect,” says Sally.

“As humans, we fundamentally gain joy from helping others.”

You might also consider contributing to our national or even global community. This unprecedented period in our history has impacted on each and every one of us, providing a rare opportunity to be actors in a much bigger picture. The global “flattening the curve” and “stay at home” campaigns have encouraged us to think about the many rather than the few, whilst - on a national level - a petition signed by over 6,000 people encouraged the New Zealand government to organise repatriation flights for Kiwi citizens stranded in lockdown Peru last week.

If you feel empowered to create change, Sally suggests saving a small portion of your weekly spending and putting it towards a charity, brainstorming ways to create local change with your families, and sharing your ideas with those in charge - locally and nationally.

“You might choose to write one letter to one councilor, or mayor, or government-funded body, or even Jacinda, about one concept that you feel strongly about,” she writes. “Now, more than ever, people want to listen. Play your part in the change that is possible in the world by providing solutions for our problems.”

So, there it is. From minute to massive, there’s something we can all take away from this trying time. Every cloud, and all that.

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Sun Views

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Flouting the lockdown rules

Those flouting lockdown are irresponsible in the extreme. Public parks in Wanaka (such as Kelly's flat recreation reserve) still attract groups of people playing soccer, golf, frisbee and cricket, despite the fact only walking, running and biking are permitted forms of exercise. It's as if some people believe this is one long holiday courtesy of the government with no repercussions in either the short or long term. Yet the ongoing social, health and economic effects will be dire for months and years to come. Families paying mortgages are getting some relief, but this won't be sustainable in the long term, and some inevitable business collapses and job losses will exacerbate the situation.

Those who continue to flout lockdown are putting us all at risk. People needing scans and surgeries for life-threatening conditions such as cancer have seen their procedures cancelled or put on hold. This situation is not just about Covid19 - it has much wider ramifications for those needing urgent procedures.

Some have made enormous sacrifices during this time with the tragic loss of a family member to illness such as cancer or stroke or other diseases. They are unable to have funerals for their loved ones and must remain in lockdown. We all need to consider the big picture and grow our empathy for those badly affected by this situation. We all have a part to play in making this lockdown work so that the country can be resurrected sooner rather than later. People's lives depend upon it in more ways than one.

Deborah Fraser Further to your articles on lockdown breaches, I walk and ride every day along the waterfront with my husband. Many of the houses are locked up with blinds down, and it is self-evident no one is in residence.

Just before Easter these houses have all come to life, blinds back, doors open, music playing, lawns being mown. I think of all of the self-sacrificing New Zealanders doing their part, but these arrogant prats play by another set of rules.

Shame on them.

Jos Bassett-Smith

Sponsored by

In response to our editorial “We aren’t all playing our part in the lockdown?”

EDITORIAL

Warbirds loss puts things in perspective

Teresa: It’s very much like this in our neighbourhood too. We have reported the frequent visitors the neighbours are having but have not seen a response. Last night car loads of people turned up to a party. We called 105 who said they would try and send a car but alas, once again no follow up.

Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

Over Easter I was feeling a little sorry for myself. Stuck inside, with some sort of stomach flu (not coronavirus, thank goodness), but generally feeling blah.

Then I realised that this weekend was supposed to be Warbirds and Ed Taylor and his crew would be feeling a lot worse than me and rightly so. Instead of 50,000 people packed into the Wānaka Airport for two days of thrills, the airport would be silent and still. No planes.

No crowds. No Jim Hickey. And two years of planning and several hundred thousand dollars of investment- gone.

Apparently, the last air show in 2018 generated an economic benefit of 22 million dollars for the wider region. Fifty-five thousand people attended. And as preparations for this year started ramping up, ticket sales were indicating another biggie. It was all go.

This year fans were especially pumped at the prospect of seeing a US B-52 Stratofortress and a Russian Polikarpov I-16 fighter. The latter, formerly owned by the Alpine Fighter Collection in Wānaka, had arrived early in the month but now sits boxed in a hangar waiting to be shipped back to Europe.

Many fans rarely miss Warbirds, travelling from around the country and the world. My brother, a top-dressing pilot, was one of these.

But you don’t have to be a “plane spotter” to get a huge thrill out of the event apparently. I can’t say, I have never been but I used to enjoy watching this giant float-plane-thing fly over my house. I don’t remember its name but it was very impressive.

Taylor reckons the coronavirus situation

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Russell: Oh, wow no-one is out causing havoc so that journalists have a story. The photo actually looks like army or similar so the heading is fake news.

PHOTO: Warbirds

The US B-52 Stratofortress- maybe we will see it in 2022?

was first discussed at the governing board’s February meeting. But it seemed a long way off at the time and unlikely to affect New Zealand.

But over the next few weeks, things escalated.

The government closed its borders with China, but Taylor still thought the show would go on.

Then the Prime Minister announced all visitors would have to self-isolate for 14 days and Taylor knew the event was in trouble. The tough decision to cancel was made – the first time in the event’s 32-year history that it had been called off.

Taylor’s team, the Wānaka community and plane fans alike, devastated by the announcement.

I imagine it has been very tough on the team seeing two year’s work gone just like that; I can really sympathise. But we have to keep it in perspective in these unprecedented times. Taylor says he is concerned that we are currently in something of a twilight zone as the government wage subsidy cushions the initial blow, but once that ends, what then? A question we are all asking.

Dates have been set for April 15, 16 and 17 for Warbirds 2022 but there are some hard roads ahead for Wānaka and the wider region.

In the meantime, I have stopped feeling sorry for myself, considering the heartbreak of the Warbirds team this Easter. I’ve put things in perspective. I’m fine.

Pia: Although your intent seems reasonable and warranted, reporting on ‘reports on social media’ is not good ‘reporting’. Making a judgement on people you admittedly did not see is not good journalism. For the record, the people at the bridge, I’m quite certain, were not ‘locals’.

Mike: I’m not about to excuse bad behaviour but the editorial is supporting a Chinese communist approach, which disappears people, executes prisoners both criminal and political then extracts their organs for sale, commits atrocities against people based on their religion, sorry I don’t support your call for a totalitarian approach.

Patricia: I am certainly not supporting the Chinese Communist approach but I don't see the harm in the army out in force policing the roads, stopping people driving from Wanaka to Christchurch like my neighbours did last night. And a few more responses to people calling the police like I did when the neighbours had a party couldn't go amiss.

I'm tired of it. Really tired of it. I want to get out of this lockdown thing asap and it's not going to happen if people don't play by the rules. We have the highest rate of CV in the country. It’s up to us to get ourselves out of this situation. No one else. Just us.

Darryll: You are so misguided… it would be for the greater good so it is all fully justified, no matter the cost.

Sam: Even with all this time on my hand’s rights now, I really wish I didn’t waste the last couple minutes of my life reading this. Is this meant to be news? Seems more like an Upper Clutha trading post rant.

Alex: Unfortunately, that mentality in our region causes us to have the highest rate of infection and the highest rate of infection is in the 20-29 year age group. And the figures for both are astonishing. We will be the last district allowed to go back to normal life due to these blatant idiots.

THURSDAY 16.04.20 - WEDNESDAY 22.04.20

PAGE 9

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Wanaka Pharmacy is Business Networking The your local pharmacy. International.

Wanaka chapter of We’re the big BNI meets weekly at pharmacy at the top 7am Tuesday morning.

Great networking of Helwick Street - opportunity to grow business. open from 8am until your Contact Randal 7pm every single day. Dobbs for information 021 973 043.

Ph 443 8000.

STORAGE Clean, dry, safe storage available now.

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GIB STOPPING Aspiring Interiors Offers Leading Gib Stopping Services For Residential & Commercial in Wanaka. Level Four Finish. Machine Tools. Reliable.

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WĀNAKA’S INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER ISSUE 970 Free delivery to Wānaka, Cromwell and surrounds, PO boxes in Makarora, Cromwell, Haast, Wānaka, Albert Town and Hāwea.

Also distributed to businesses in the Wānaka business district Average circulation: 15,000 weekly.

Phone: 03 443 5252 • Fax: 03 443 5250 Editor: Pat Deavoll • 0274 487 741 editor@thewanakasun.co.nz Journalist: Ollie Blyth • journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz

Joanna Perry • 021 736 740 newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz Advertising: 03 443 5252• marketing@thewanakasun.co.nz Admin: Benn Ashford • 021 956 740 admin@thewanakasun.co.nz Mail: PO Box 697, Wānaka Deadlines: Display Advertising 4pm Friday prior to publication. marketing@thewanakasun.co.nz

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Thanks for your support during this uncertain time.

Stay safe.

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Coronavirus: the experts say, anxiety is real, listen to it thewanakasun.co.nz

Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

Dr Christopher Gale Senior Lecturer Department of Psychological Medicine University of Otago, comments: "Until this time we had been relatively spared, compared with other countries. The worldwide best estimate from the centre of evidence-based medicine in Oxford is that five in 1,000 who have symptomatic COVID-19 will die. Still, the rates in each nation vary considerably, with New Zealand close to the lowest rate reported.

"We have, to date, been able to provide appropriate care for every person with COVID-19, but this has taken considerable effort on behalf of district health boards, doctors, and nurses. Our health care system has pivoted to provide emergency care for the more seriously unwell people. In this, there have been delays of usual care and decisions made that may impact the health of other people with chronic illnesses.

This is a time for understanding. No doctor or nurse wants to be in a situation where they are unable to provide needed care and comfort – and at present, the issues we have are around delaying non-urgent care, not denying it."

Dr Ian de Terte, senior lecturer, clinical psychologist, Massey University, comments: "To date, New Zealanders have done an exceptional job with the 'lockdown' process, but it is only halfway. It is like a change of innings in a cricket game. We have batted well, but now we have to field and bowl well to win the game. We

need more of the same, so I am urging people to stay at home. Furthermore, it may be that we need to extend this level-four-period and so I will use the example of the recent world cup cricket final where we needed a super over, which extended the final. It may well be that we need to extend the 'lockdown' period except this super over may go on until we beat this virus otherwise more New Zealanders may die."

Associate Professor Arindam Basu, School of Health Sciences, University of Canterbury, comments: "As much as New Zealand has shown improvements, the news of more deaths is a stark reminder that we will need to continue with level 4 (strict isolation and mitigation efforts) not just to flatten the curve but also shrink the total caseload. In this context, let us also keep in mind the new rising numbers in Singapore that short of complete mitigation, the virus tends to 'come back' or 'emerge'.

"One particular angle to keep in mind is about the biological property of the virus that determines its invasive properties. The pathology is such that those with hypertension, diabetes, increased age, reduced immunity, predisposing lung disease, smoking-related illnesses are at risk of adverse outcomes.

"In particular, we need to be particularly careful about situations and households where children and elderly people (65+ years) live together and have chances of mixing, so before re-opening schools and day-care centres, these factors will possibly need to be kept in perspective. Plus,

we need to trust that despite case numbers and deaths, there is evidence that the shut down is working; we have to be extra careful."

Dr Dougal Sutherland, Clinical Psychologist, Victoria University of Wellington and Umbrella Health, comments: "How quickly things can change in 48 hours.

Before Easter the police were warning people not to consider travelling to holiday homes and baches. There appeared to be a growing sense of optimism and even pride about how well we were doing containing Covid-19. But the incredibly sad news of three deaths in two days may be a sobering reminder of the job we still have ahead of us.

"It's natural that people might respond to these new deaths with a heightened sense of anxiety. In this situation, our concern is useful. Anxiety tells us that there could be danger present and that we should take steps to reduce our risk. And right now our anxiety is real, and we should listen to it."

Jacqui Maguire, Registered Clinical Psychologist, comments: It is paramount we continue to conscientiously forge forward throughout level-4’s entirety, whilst validating how tough this might be feeling.

Validation from our public leaders is just as important in scaffolding compliance as positive reinforcement.

"If you are requiring a boost in motivation, try the following: 1. Create an altruistic mindset: Staying home will protect those who are vulnerable.

Picturing someone you love that is

PUBLIC NOTICE

PHOTO: Canterbury University

Professor Arindam Basu, School of Health Sciences, University of Canterbury.

vulnerable you can help 2. Focus on one day at a time rather than the end date.

3. List and savour the benefits of lockdown.

E.g.pause from the hustle culture, time to read books, no traffic, money-saving because you can’t shop…

4. Schedule things to look forward to each day.

5. Plan how your bubble will celebrate when we come out of level-4. My bubble will be the first patrons outside the local café to enjoy our flat whites."

SITUATION VACANT

MEDIA SALES CONSULTANT N o t i c e b o a rd | P a p a P ā n u i Dog Registration for 2020/2021 The invoices for the 2020/2021 registration period for all registered dogs will be sent out starting 6 May 2020.

To ensure you receive an accurate invoice, please update your dog’s details and any recent changes to your mailing address, by calling 03 443 0024 or emailing services@qldc.govt.nz.

A link to the current fixed fees can be found at the QLDC website: www.qldc.govt.nz/services/animal-control/register-your-dog#dog-registration-fees.

Please be advised all dog registrations will expire on 30 June 2020.

Private Bag 50072 | 47 Ardmore Street Wānaka Phone 03 443 0024 | www.qldc.govt.nz

The Wānaka Sun is seeking an enthusiastic, driven and outgoing salesperson to join its media sales team, selling across print and digital news platforms.

Position responsibilities include but are not limited to: • Reach monthly revenue targets • New business acquisition • Develop key client and business relationships • Prepare advertising proposals • Maintenance of client and revenue records • Provide weekly sales reports to management We’re looking for someone who has: • A proven history of success in a sales or business development role; preferably from within the media industry

• Strong interpersonal skills with an ability to develop effective business relationships

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• Excellent communication, presentation and negotiation skills • Self-motivation, resilience and the ability to achieve objectives and goals within company guidelines

• A strong sense of accountability and an attention to detail • Ideally a formal qualification in business or marketing This is a fantastic opportunity for a passionate Sales Executive who enjoys a challenge! If this sounds like you, please forward your application, including covering letter, resume and two professional referees to:

Benn Ashford, The Wānaka Sun, PO Box 697, Wānaka, admin@thewanakasun.co.nz

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PAGE 11

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Multisport endurance champion Simone Maier’s wellbeing lockdown Joanna Perry

newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

Wānaka’s world multisport champion Simone Maier was “heartbroken” when she was unable to defend her title at this year’s Coast to Coast competition, after hypothermia forced her to pull out of the race whilst in second position.

“When you put in so much time, effort, money, everything, anything, you live for the race day in, day out, and it’s almost as if your life depends on it… and then I gave up. Wow, that [was] huge,” she said.

The coronavirus lockdown has been well-timed for her, giving her a chance to rest after a tumultuous start to the year.

“The beauty of the lockdown for me now is that I finally have time to do other things like relax, sleep in and not feel guilty about it,” she said. “Best of all, I can give my body and mind a break from continuous training.”

She is spending her time with partner Marcel on the Kina Peninsula near Motueka, and is relishing the chance to reflect on the past year and “look after [her] wellbeing 100 percent.”

It’s still important for her to keep

moving every day - whether that’s a walk along the beach or mountain biking around the block. She meditates for twenty minutes every other day, and, recognising that the aftermath of the race and the coronavirus crisis were having a negative impact on her, she has taken a break from social media.

“One of my highlights is a strength workout on Zoom with my friends down in Wānaka three times a week. Thank you, internet!”

Maier still hopes to keep racing later this year, but at 40 years she is also considering what comes next. “I cannot make up my mind about what to do instead of racing yet. In the past, I have been moving around a lot - mostly for racing - but now I long for a permanent place of my own. I really do love good food, and I would like to grow it myself on my land,” she said.

“I am very grateful for my racing experiences over the years as they have taught me a lot - about uncertainty, being prepared for changes, being open, moving on, making the most of a bad situation, trust and belief in the better.”

Being kind and showing love is very important right now,” she added.

PHOTO: Supplied

“The beauty of the lockdown for me now is that I finally have time to do other things like relax, sleep in and not feel guilty about it.”

Four top ten places for Wānaka Swim Club Joanna Perry

newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

A record number of eleven junior swimmers from Wānaka Swim Club attended the New Zealand Junior Festival held in Timaru last month, from March 13 to 15.

The festival is the premier junior competition in New Zealand, requiring swimmers to post qualifying times to be able to attend, and is held in three regions throughout the country - with the meet in Timaru attracting the top junior swimmers from all of the South Island.

This year’s Wānaka Swim Club team consisted of Max Bagley, Catarina David, Jarred Ferguson, Fleur Jansen, Jojo King, Toby Mills, Coast Morland, Mabel North, William Schurink, Douglas Wise and Maddie Young.

According to Swim Coach Cameron Stanley, the team had a fantastic weekend setting 48 personal best times, showing excellent improvements in technique and skills, and having fantastic team spirit. The team also saw four members secure top ten spots in a variety of categories including butterfly, backstroke and freestyle.

“As far as we know, the numbers on the Wānaka team this year is a record for this competition,” said Stanley. “Last year, there wasn't a single swimmer from Wānaka Swim Club at this competition.”

He gave credit for this achievement to the “hard work, passion, and attention to detail” of fellow coach Belinda Donaldson, who has been working at the Swim Club for the past eighteen months.

“Belinda is one of the top junior coaches in New Zealand and her

knowledge of technique, energy and enthusiasm are second to none,” he said.

“She has been working tirelessly to prepare the swimmers for this competition - helping them improve in technique and skills,creating an environment where they love to train, and getting them to believe in themselves, which has resulted in more and more swimmers giving competitions a go.”

Donaldson said that she was very proud of the “hard work, dedication and wonderful team spirit” or the junior swimmers.

“It was great to see so many swimmers qualify for NZ Juniors this year,” she said. “I feel very privileged to be coaching such a wonderful group. It’s so exciting for Cameron and I to watch the Wānaka Swim Club grow from strength to strength, and I’m sure there is much more to come.”

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PAGE 12

PHOTO: Supplied

As far as we know, the numbers on the Wānaka team this year is a record for this competition.

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