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Keeping cool in the heat Locals flock to the water to escape heat.
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We want our town back WHITE R ROB journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz
W
ith reports of people urinating on residential streets, faeces on the lakefront and countless vans scattered overnight across Wanaka’s streets and fields, Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) has finally accepted it could do more to prevent freedom camping. But as the problem grows dramatically and infringements hit their highest-ever level, QLDC has confirmed it will take next to no immediate action in Wanaka. As countless residents spot freedom campers all over the region, we are all left asking – can we have our town back? Mayor Jim Boult held a media standup last week to outline new plans to tackle freedom camping across the district. The council admitted that the problem had grown dramatically, promising to take a “hard line”, and Mayor Boult conceded that more could be done to tackle it. However, concerns are now rising after the steps announced included very little actual immediate action in Wanaka, and nothing anywhere but on the lakefront. The council also said it “hopes” there is no more damage until its major new plans are implemented, which will not be before the second half of this year. With freedom camping at record levels, Mayor Boult announced on Thursday (January 25) that QLDC would consult the community to review the Freedom Camping Control Bylaw, including amendments to Reserve Management Plans in May or June. Before this, the council will seek public feedback and suggestions during February. Although both of those consultations will include Wanaka,
direct steps like banning freedom campers from areas of Queenstown were not confirmed here. The only step the council confirmed for Wanaka was wheel clamping on the lakefront, which will commence in the next few weeks. It did not address the widespread problem in any other area of the town. In the announcement, QLDC acknowledged that a minority of freedom campers risked degrading the region’s unique experience for locals and holidaymakers and highlighted overcrowding and human waste as key areas. Mayor Boult said, “Freedom campers are a diverse group, including everyone from private vehicles through to retirees enjoying their kiwi dream, travelling the country. Many choose the wellappointed local commercial campsites, and others are sufficiently low-impact by having truly selfcontained vehicles. “For all others, our enforcement officers are out patrolling with a focus on education in the evenings as people are settling in for the night. They’re also patrolling in the early hours of the morning to identify and address any non-compliance. We’re already doing a lot, but I agree we can do more,” said Mayor Boult. With enforcement again highlighted as a major part of the council’s attempts to clamp down on freedom camping, questions have also arisen about whether it is working. Fines have now reached record levels, having more than doubled across the Queenstown Lakes District from 1436 back in 2012 to 3158 last year, but QLDC also confirmed that the fine remains just $200 and admitted over a third of those caught (35%) are not paying. Continued on page 2
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Little action in Wanaka as problems mount Continued from page 1
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Voice of the Sun:
Talk is cheap, repairing the damage is not As more and more people arrive to enjoy the hot weather, beautiful landscapes and activities on offer, QLDC has decided not to take direct action on freedom camping across Wanaka. It will, however, continue to announce vague proposals and claim to have the best of intentions. It is also seemingly happy to claim to be taking a “hard line” and constantly refer to how long it takes to change anything, but even under repeated questioning, will not explain how, or when, it will actually do so. It continues to focus on the lakefront, but has no plan for the areas of town where people actually live. What will the council do when freedom campers spread out to
avoid clamping? QLDC has had five years since the bylaw was introduced and freedom camping is spiralling further and further out of control. The sheer scope of the problem, the damage to the town and the anguish of the people who pay QLDC’s rates has not inspired a single piece of action in the areas where we need it the most. Rome wasn’t built in a day, the council says, but it appears QLDC has spent those five years simply fiddling while it burns. It is surely time for QLDC to give the honest answer on how it will stop the damage caused by freedom camping: “we simply don’t know.” Have your say - email journalist@ thewanakasun.co.nz
The Wanaka Sun has been contacted by numerous concerned residents over the past few weeks and Mayor Boult’s announcement seems to include little to quell their concerns. Mark Hadida told us that he sees freedom campers every single night at Waterfall Creek, regularly discovering human faeces whilst walking his dog. Jill Cole said that she has experienced people sleeping in cars outside her house, before seeing them urinate in her street the following morning. Another resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said he sees freedom campers in at least four locations around Wanaka on a daily basis. “There’s plenty of good campgrounds here. When there’s toilet paper and poo on the side of the road, we don’t need that.” On social media, one resident saw a tent being erected in Pembroke Park, just a stone’s throw from the lakefront, while another was asked if a camper could park on their lawn before they just parked up in the road to sleep. Others have reported five or six campers every night parked near Dublin Bay. In response to Wanaka’s problem, QLDC is “considering” measures for the lakefront, such as turning off free wifi overnight. However, Mayor Boult did not announce any actual action other than wheel clamping on the lakefront. When pressed by the Wanaka Sun, council spokesperson Jimmy Sygrove accepted that action was needed, but could not confirm any other action either. “We will be taking action as soon as we can, noting that we are already patrolling both Queenstown and Wanaka twice a day.
“The freedom camping bylaw allows us to issue infringements of $200 for breaking the bylaw. These have been issued in their thousands across the district every year since the bylaw was introduced. The dramatic increase in the number of freedom campers this summer means we need to look at new preventative measures. “Wheel clamping of vehicles camped overnight will begin on the Wanaka Lakefront,” said Jimmy. Asked if he expected any more damage before QLDC finally implemented any changes at all, he seemed to suggest there would be. “We’d hope that there is no damage, but current experience tells us that the small minority of campers that don’t follow the rules leave rubbish and often human waste behind them,” he said. When then asked if council had considered other areas of Wanaka besides the lakefront, he reminded us patrols are in operation, but mentioned no action in any other areas of town. In the meantime, and in addition to the flood of complaints from locals, a Wanaka Sun poll of 145 people revealed that 95% thought QLDC was not doing enough to combat the problem. A Change. org petition asking to ‘Save our reserves’, which will be delivered to Mayor Boult, attracted over 6,000 signatures in its first week. Details of QLDC’s Freedom Camping Control Bylaw review will close on February 16. Details are available on its website. Pictured: This car (bottom right) is parked within the no freedom camping zone in the Eely Point Reserve. This is within the No Freedom Camping area and nobody is allowed to camp here, self-contained or not.
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PHOTO: Jill Cole
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Whakawatea on Lakefront
PHOTO: Mark Sedon
From Hawea to Antarctica WHITE R ROB journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz
PHOTO: Nikki Heath
TURNBULL G GLENDA editor@thewanakasun.co.nz Another family has lost a member to Lake Wanaka after a man got into difficulty on Monday January 29. The man, 39, was assisted by members of the public until emergency services arrived, who performed CPR for some time, but were unable to revive him. The cause of death is not yet known. It is the second death that has occurred in the lake this summer, with David Fisher, 26, from Tauranga, drowning on Friday December 15 after he swam out from Stevensons Island to retrieve a drifting boat. On Tuesday January 30, Jeromy Van Riel performed a whakawatea, or blessing (pictured), at the lakefront with family members. A whakawatea is used to lift the sacred status of our
lake after a death occurs. Jeromy also performed a whakawatea at the spot where David drowned. “During a whakawatea, we offer comfort to the surviving family, where possible, and acknowledge the unfortunate passing of their loved one. We talk to the spirit of the deceased, giving them directions to return to the spiritual resting places of their own ancestors and we say a karakia to install the intention of love and safety back into our waters, so that it be both safe for us to use and also respectful to the family who lost their one at this place we think is nice to swim and picnic at,” Jeromy said. The Wanaka Sun extends its sympathy to the family and reminds people to show vigilance and caution when swimming in our lakes and rivers this summer.
Fire risk halts mowing WHITE R ROB journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) has stopped all roadside mowing operations due to the high fire risk across the district. After the continued dry weather and hot temperatures seen across the region in recent weeks, QLDC has decided that the risk of sparks is now too high. General manager property and infrastructure Peter Hansby said the approach was common sense. “Mowing operations in the long grass on roadside verges have the potential to cause sparks if our machinery hits a rock, and in the current conditions that’s all that would be needed to start a fire which could have disastrous consequences. “Local fire authorities have responded to a number of fires in the last few weeks, including one at Jack’s Point last night that involved temporary evacuations. While we accept that halting mowing is a reduction in our levels of service, this simply isn’t a risk
THE WANAKA SUN
we’re willing to take until we get some significant rain,” he said. QLDC will also evaluate its mowing contracts for council-owned parks and reserves and will halt any mowing operations it deems are high-risk until conditions change. Residents are also being asked to make sure they take the necessary precautions to avoid accidentally causing a fire on their own properties, particularly those with long, dry grass. Graeme Still, Otago principal rural fire officer, said people needed to be aware of the current risk. “The conditions across Otago are some of the driest we’ve seen in years and there is a very real danger of inadvertently starting a fire simply maintaining your property. Anyone should think twice about mowing their lawns or using any outdoor machinery that could create a spark, at least until after the next good rain. As for lighting a fire outside, don’t even think about it.” More information on reducing the risk of fire is available at https:// fireandemergency.nz/at-home.
When Mark Sedon met Leo Houlding at the Mountain Film Festival, he didn’t know that they would one day be thousands of kilometres from home and battling sub-zero temperatures to reach the top of a mountain that didn’t even have a name. But when the third man dropped out of Leo’s planned trip to Antarctica, he mentioned to Mark that he needed a photographer who could kite ski and climb. He sent over his resume and suddenly, he was in. “I had about 2 weeks to get ready for it. I didn’t have much time to train because of work. All of my training was core training and dragging a truck tyre around my street,” Mark said. Fast-forward to November and Mark found himself joining Leo and Frenchman Jean Burgin in Southern Chile. Their ultimate destination was a mountain, Spectre, but first they had to reach the Union Glacier, where they landed on a blue ice runway. “You can barely walk on it, but you can land on it.” Once on the ground, the trio faced a 60 day trip across 1700 kilometres of ice and snow in one of the most desolate places on Earth. They were already 3000 metres high, the temperature was minus 35 degrees Celsius and the 20 knots of wind quickly doubled to 40. Not only that, but they had to kite ski, pulling 180 kilograms on a pulk, a short toboggan and had just the wind and their own strength to get there. The first leg didn’t go exactly to plan as the weather lengthened it from seven days to 17. They eventually reached Spectre and spent 10 days climbing, including 21 hours on the final ascent. Mark said his 15 years of kite surfing and 40 winters of skiing came in handy, but he left the leading of the climbing to Leo and Jean.
“We had to climb rock with ice axes and crampons. It would have been too difficult for me to lead it, but Leo is one of the best climbers in the world. If you want to know the definition of feeling out there, it’s being up a mountain 1,400km from home, in poor weather.” They were also the first to climb a nearby unnamed mountain, before some improved conditions helped their return journey significantly. “It was really useful wind direction, so after four days of man-hauling our pulks, we were able to kite ski back in 24 hours instead of having to walk for an additional 14 days. We did 100km in seven hours, it was fantastic.” Once back at the drop-off point, it was Christmas Day and time to celebrate. The trio exchanged presents under the decorations they had brought, and Mark surprised Leo with a card, drawn by his four-year-old daughter. After another 1,100km to the finish line, the trip was over and Mark was able to reflect on what he’d achieved. “Everything was hard, but we got used to it, When you get into your tent inside your sleeping bag you are quite warm. There were times of real difficulty and times quite relaxing. “We all love adventures. It was about doing something no one had done before and challenging yourself. Any sort of adventure makes you feel alive, whether it’s for a walk around the lake or kite skiing across Antarctica. It’s about challenging yourself.” Mark’s next trip is taking a group of New Zealanders to Greenland. In the meantime, he’s enjoying a calmer month. So would he do it again? “Probably. Although I’ve changed Leo’s name in my phone to ‘do not answer!’” More information on Mark’s trip is available on his website at www.kiwiskiguide.com.
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Kai-boshed: the day the music died
PHOTO: Nikki Heath
Drought extended to Queenstown Lakes District WHITE R ROB journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz Agriculture and Rural Communities minister Damien O’Connor has officially announced that the Queenstown Lakes District is experiencing a drought. The minister extended the mediumscale adverse event classification for the drought in parts of the country to the whole of Southland, plus the Queenstown Lakes, Central Otago and Clutha districts on Tuesday, January 30. The move triggers additional funding of up to $130,000 for the local Rural Support Trusts and industry groups to coordinate recovery support. Mr O’Connor said, “We’ve been working with local farming groups, councils and NIWA to monitor how the drought has been progressing and the impact on the farming communities. Anticipated rain that could have provided respite just hasn’t fallen in the right areas to mitigate the effects of the early hot dry summer. “Some useful rain is predicted for this week, however the drought has already taken its toll on farms and will take time to recover from. So the
recovery assistance measures are as important as ever, even when we finally get decent rain.” Federated Farmers Otago president Phill Hunt, who along with the Otago Rural Support Trust helped make the application for drought status, welcomed the news. “It’s great. It means we can get out there and help people that are beginning to get under some stress. The minister has acknowledged that we are in a pretty bad situation throughout those districts. “For the farming community and the rural community, it can allow the professionals to come and help educate farmers and help farmer and animal welfare. We can put some resources into education and ensure people don’t fall off the tracks in a stressful situation,” he said. However, Waitaki MP Jacqui Dean said the declaration was not enough. “My support goes out to farmers across the region suffering with drought conditions at the moment, but I must also sound a warning that unless this government does more to support irrigation projects in the future, the negative effects of dry conditions like this will only be ongoing,” she said.
PHOTO: supplied
R
ROB WHITE
journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz
Kai Whakapai has been told it must stop hosting live music outside its premises with immediate effect. The cafe and bar, based in Ardmore Street, has been hosting early evening live music for several years in Busker’s Square, next to its outdoor drinking area. However, it has now been told by Queenstown Lakes District Council that its license does not cover live music and that it must stop immediately, despite no noise complaints being received. The issue was raised by a council member, as yet unnamed, at a meeting and the outdoor musicians have already played their last gig. Owner Roger North said he disagreed with the decision. “We are the furthest building from residential dwellings, we do it once a week, we stop at 8:30pm and the duty manager is in charge of the noise. It’s a shame that we are being penalised for something that is part of the social fabric of Wanaka,” he said. As a result, Roger said there are now fears for local charities as many of the music nights benefit good causes, often as much as $1000 a time. Previous beneficiaries have included Coastguard, Frisbee Golf and Wanaka Football Club. “Much as we do music once a week, at least one in
Fatal crash at Bendigo REPORTER S STAFF editor@thewanakasun.co.nz One person died after a car left the road on the Tarras-Cromwell Highway on Sunday January 28. The southbound Toyota Previa vehicle was travelling on a flat, straight section of the highway when it left the road and hit a large boulder embedded in the bank. This caused the vehicle to roll, trapping one person inside the vehicle, which caught fire. While five of the occupants managed to escape, the vehicle quickly became engulfed in flames, stopping any attempt to rescue the person inside. Several Fire Service units were called to extinguish the blaze which started a small grass fire.
THE WANAKA SUN
The road was closed for a number of hours. Two of the passengers were transported by rescue helicopter to Dunstan Hospital with non life-threatening injuries, while the remaining three passengers were also taken there with minor injuries by ambulance. All five people were admitted overnight. Police have spoken with a number of witnesses, but would like anyone who witnessed the crash to contact the Cromwell Police Station on (03) 445 1999. Police cannot speculate on the cause of the crash, however the Serious Crash Unit attended and the scene was examined. A post mortem is to be conducted in Christchurch and the Coroner has been notified. THURSDAY 01.02.18 - WEDNESDAY 07.02.18
four are charity fundraisers where the entire profits are donated to charity. Those charities will have their fundraising cut off. It is a kick in the teeth for the community.” Aspiring Avalanche Dogs (AAD) is another charity that benefits from the live music evenings and dog handler Matt Gunn said it was bad news for the organisation. “We really rely on the two fundraising evenings we have held at Kai for the last six years. We get more people down because of the music, so for us it was a huge blow to our earning potential. I don’t see why the council has a problem.” Explaining the decision, council spokesperson Rebecca Pitts said, “There hasn’t been any significant noise complaints. However, Kai Whakapai are in the process of having their alcohol license reviewed. As part of this, they were reminded that the rules relating to busking permits had changed slightly and were direct to the council website to check they were up to speed.” Although there are still steps he can take to remedy the situation, Roger said he was not confident of getting the music turned back on. “We are being supported by people in the council to help us reach a sensible conclusion. I’m not convinced it will help. I don’t have much hope,” he said.
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Emilia welcomed in Wanaka
PHOTO: Rob White
Wanaka spring water ‘fit to drink’ WHITE R ROB journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz PHOTO: Nadine Cagney
TURNBULL G GLENDA editor@thewanakasun.co.nz Around 70 people gathered to welcome Finnish peace activist, PhD student and TedX speaker Emilia Lahti to the Lake Wanaka Centre last Tuesday, January 23. Emilia arrived in Wanaka after finishing the sixth leg of her 50 ultra marathons in 50 days, having conquered the Crown Range in searing heat. In 2010, she survived a violent relationship and has undertaken the challenge to share her message to show fellow survivors of personal violence that there is a lot of life on the other side of trauma. Organiser Janelle Fletcher said Emilia had a special connection with Wanaka. “This is her spiritual home and she has a special affinity with the Wanaka tree. The willow has deep
roots, but is also very strong. That represents what Emilia has been through, being persistent through her experience and overcoming it. Her main message was really around a different way of relating to people. How to break the stigma of being a victim.” Janelle said there were lots of different age groups represented. “It was about the conversations that were, will and have been had. People have started sharing their experiences.” Emelia has continued on her journey and has a support crew and film team travelling with her up the West Coast to Wellington. She will also be joined by several people from Queenstown along the way. The evening raised $425 for Jigsaw Central Lakes. Pictured: Emilia (centre) with two of her support crew.
The water at Wanaka Community Spring has been declared fit to drink by Touchstone. The non-profit community organisation decided to test the spring’s water earlier this month after its inconsistent flow sparked concerns among locals. However, Touchstone has now announced that after testing for the presence of bacteria, metals and factors such as hardness and pH, the water showed zero or very low levels across the board. “In the case of the spring, all the values came back very low to nondetectable. There were extremely low concentrations of metals and contaminants such as nitrate,” the
organisation said. Touchstone’s Chris Arbuckle added, “I stop at the spring to fill my drink bottle nearly every day on my bike ride, I would not drink it if I thought it was questionable.” Whilst reporting the good news regarding the quality of the supply, Touchstone did wish remind all users that the spring was not an official water supply. “We would like to stress that the spring is still not classed as a community supply. It’s still ‘drink at your own risk’. While the laboratory we used is accredited, and we followed stringent sampling methods, and our information is trustworthy, it is “unofficial”.” The new results mark Touchstone’s third test of the spring’s water quality, all of which returned results indicating it is safe to drink.
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Care home receives doctor’s plaque PHOTO: supplied
‘Extreme risk’ puts fire crews on standby WHITE R ROB journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz
PHOTO: Rob White
WHITE R ROB journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz Elmslie House has been given a plaque that once stood outside the surgery of the doctor who gave it its name. The care home, based on Stone Street, is named after Alexander Harper Elmslie, the doctor for Pembroke from 1925 to 1938. His practice was run from a house on the main street near the original library and the plaque, which outlines his name and credentials, hung outside. Dr Elmslie returned to the area to retire in 1948, eight years after it changed its name from Pembroke to Wanaka. The plaque was then passed on to his family when he died, and last Wednesday (January 24), his godson Alexander Morris, known as Sandy,
awarded it to Elmslie House. “He was the best man at my parents’ wedding in 1939. Elmslie House is named after Dr Elmslie and I thought it’s a suitable place for the shingle to go up. It’s the history of the building,” Sandy said. Kim Taylor, clinical coordinator at Elmslie House, said, “We appreciate having that link back to the doctor that the facility is named after. It will be nice to explain to residents how it came to be known as Elmslie House.” Sandy said he was delighted to make the presentation and thought Dr Elmslie would have been very happy to know that his plaque was on display at the care home. Pictured are Sandy and his wife Sylvia presenting Kim with the plaque. They have also donated Doctor Elmslie’s original medical certificate.
Fire crews and helicopters are on standby across the region after temperatures in the 30s, rising winds and low humidity levels pushed the fire risk to extreme. As of 5pm on Tuesday, January 30, there had been no fires in Central Otago or the Queenstown Lakes District, but 15 helicopters and 18 ground crews remain ready for immediate deployment. Fire and Emergency New Zealand has also set up a regional incident management team in Clyde, one of three activated across Otago and Southland. Jamie Cowan, Incident Controller in Clyde, said “The current fire risk is well above what we consider to be extreme. Strong winds have been the only thing missing and unfortunately
we are expecting winds to get up today and certainly into tomorrow.” He urged contractors, tradespeople and farmers to postpone any activities involving machinery including mowers, grinders, saws, tractors and anything else that could generate sparks or heat. “One of our staff saw contractors using a blowtorch on a roadside area with long glass today. That’s just daft behaviour in these conditions. We will find it very challenging to get any fire under control, so the best thing is not to start one.” He also advised that any essential outdoor work should be done early in the morning and said people should keep a fire extinguisher, hose or buckets of water close by. A total fire ban remains across all of Otago, meaning no outdoor fires are allowed, including campfires, bonfires, fireworks and camp cookers.
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Fish and Game call for feedback
DOG COLUMN Social Referencing
L LEONE WARD
Canine behaviourist
When we humans are unsure about a novel situation, our first response is to look around and check how others are reacting. This is called social referencing, But do dogs also do social referencing? A research team at the University of Milan decided to test that idea by using something that could be perceived as scary to the dogs. The outcome of that study showed that dogs do indeed look and react according to either their owner’s or a stranger’s reaction. If the reaction was positive, the dogs were then curious and relaxed about investigating further. If the human reactions were negative, the dog moved away toward the door. Social referencing is a process that can be used to help the dog whenever it is faced with a new situation. When socialising a puppy for instance, acting positively towards new people or animals will help the puppy relax and investigate. This study also points to the importance of being mindful of our reactions when in the presence of our dog. If we’re concerned about another dog walking towards us, we will inevitably convey those concerns and influence how our dog will feel about the situation. It may take only a few times before our dog starts to lunge and bark at what is now perceived as a potential threat. At that point, a jerk on the leash or a verbal reprimand will only exacerbate the problem. The strange dog will not only be associated with our anxiety, but also with the harsh treatment. As dogs are influenced by our emotional reactions, any form of punishment, whether physical or verbal, will only make things worse. We may temporarily inhibit the dog’s lunging or
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barking (which unfortunately leads us to believe the treatment is working), but we have taught him/ her to have negative feelings about this particular situation. Inhibiting a behaviour is not the same as treating it and the dog is likely to feel more and more stressed anytime the situation repeats itself. In light of the results from this study, a fun and positive reaction when in the presence of anything that the dog is concerned or unsure about, makes a lot of sense. If every time we see a strange dog at a distance, we giggle, talk in a high pitch tone of voice and display happy emotions, we’re helping the dog change the way he/she feels about dogs through classical conditioning. Instead of a source of anxiety, over time, dogs are viewed as fun with good things happening. If coupled with the ‘open bar’ technique where the dog is automatically given treats as soon as he sees another dog, regardless of what his/ her reaction is, over time, the underlying negative emotion will be replaced with a more positive one and the initial reactivity will be replaced with wags. Dog training is not just about rewarding or punishing a particular behaviour. Dealing with the underlying emotion that leads to the behaviour is essential to any lasting treatment. When dogs rely on our emotional reactions to assess a situation as safe, neutral or fun, it becomes even more important for us to learn how to control ourselves and how to be mindful of our own fears. Anxiety, stress, joy and excitement are all contagious and lead to different reactions. We hold the ability to influence how our dog feels about the world and the more confident and positive we are, the more confidence and positive curiosity the dog will develop. For information or assistance with dog behaviour contact leone@dogszone.co.nz
PHOTO: supplied
TURNBULL G GLENDA editor@thewanakasun.co.nz Otago Fish and Game Council is urging anglers to come forward and have their say on the Sports Fishing Regulations. A review of the fishing regulations has identified a range of issues and options that anglers have been asked to comment on. The regulations govern angling for brown and rainbow trout, salmon and perch in the entire Clutha catchment. The main issues for this area are redefining and simplifying regulations in the Upper Clutha River from
Wanaka outlet downstream and reconsideration of daily bag limits on lowland rivers and major Lakes and the possibility of splitting bag limits to recognise trout and salmon populations. [change of font size here] Fish and Game officer Cliff Halford said this was a prime opportunity for anglers to have an input into the regulation setting process and he hoped for a good turnout at the public meeting on Wednesday February 7 at the Lake Wanaka Centre, starting at 7.30pm. Written submissions can be sent to c.halford@fish-game.org.nz by Monday March 5.
Paraglider injured on Treble Cone REPORTER S STAFF editor@thewanakasun.co.nz A paraglider sustained moderate back injuries after an incident on Treble Cone on Monday January 29. Emergency services were contacted at 1.20pm.
THURSDAY 01.02.18 - WEDNESDAY 07.02.18
The Alpine Cliff Rescue team assisted the 44-year-old local man, who was then taken to Lakes District Hospital by helicopter. It has been confirmed that he was not a competitor in the NZ Paragliding Championships being held in Wanaka this week.
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Council praises passionate community
PHOTO: supplied
PBFW helps plasticfree paragliders BUTLER D DANIELLE newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz As paragliders compete in Wanaka’s mountains this week at the 2018 NZ Paragliding Open, there are plenty of local champions working behind the scenes to help make the event as waste-free as possible. Wanaka’s own anti-plastic initiative, Plastic Bag Free Wanaka (PBFW), is cosponsoring the Open’s commitment to becoming a zero-waste event, handing out reusable Wanaka bags, co-sponsored by Queenstown’s Pub on Wharf, to all 100 competitors. Organiser Melanie Heather said, “The pilots were rapt to get the bags
and will be using them about town. Thanks so much to PBFW and Pub on Wharf for sponsoring these reusable bags for our competitors to use during their visit to our beautiful town of Wanaka and surrounds. “We feel very lucky to live in this community and have the support and inspiration from groups such as PBFW.” The Paragliding Open began in Wanaka on Sunday January 28 and continues until Sunday February 4. DANIELLE BUTLER Open organisers have also newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz committed to using second-hand cutlery and plates from Wastebusters Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) has for the event dinner in a further bid to praised the formation of an online ‘Wanaka wishlist’ reduce waste. designed to help alleviate pressure on the town throughout its busiest periods. Resident and Shaping Our Future board member Julie Perry posted online earlier this month encouraging locals to suggest three ways of helping to lessen the impact of the town’s visitor influx in its busy summer and winter seasons. Recurring themes including transport and infrastructure were among the most common suggestions, which Julie plans to sit down and discuss with Councillor Quentin Smith. QLDC communications and engagement manager Naell Crosby-Roe said that the council always welcomed and encouraged input from residents, whether it was part of a formal consultation process or a focused activity such as the current online project. “We’re fortunate in the Queenstown Lakes
D
Kahu Youth’s Amazing Race
Platter + 2 wines or beers for $45
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WHITE R ROB journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz A group of 25 youngsters from Wanaka and Queenstown came together last weekend to take part in Kahu Youth’s version of TV show The Amazing Race. Five teams of five, including two from Wakatipu, set out from the Kahu Youth crib at 10am on Saturday January 27, for a series of physical and mental challenges around town in a race against time. Local businesses helped out and tasks included searching for a clue at the top of Basecamp’s climbing wall, a physical challenge over Mt Iron, a quiz at Paradiso Cinema and a wheelie bin race at the Recreation Centre courtesy of Wastebusters.
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Kahu Youth’s Richard Elvey said it had been a very worthwhile event, despite the searing heat. “I was so impressed with all of them. It was the hottest day in living memory. I think the mercury hit 40 degrees. If I had known, I would have had more events by the lake! “It was a successful day. We will definitely be having another go at it,” he said. Richard also thanked all of the local businesses that gave their support. “It wouldn’t have worked without them, we can’t thank them enough. They didn’t need persuading and they changed it from a treasure hunt to something with a difference.” The winning team, The Troublemakers, completed the course in just over three hours.
PHOTO: Ulrich Lange
District to have a very passionate community who care about their environment and their neighbours, and who are interested in seeking solutions to the challenges we all face as a district due to sustained growth and increased visitor numbers,” he said. Naell added that there were many ways that the community could engage with The council, including direct conversation with elected members, public forums or submitting an idea as a Request for Service. “Anyone in our community can make submissions on active consultations, annual and ten year plans and we would encourage as many people as possible to do so. If they agree or disagree with proposals, we want to know either way, and we need to know why,” he said. The next ten year plan consultation runs from March 12 to April 13 and the community can provide feedback on the draft plan and engage with QLDC representatives at a number of events throughout the district. Pictured: A busy summer’s afternoon on Ardmore Street.
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CAMERA CLUB ‘In Focus’
‘Focused’ MOORE B BOB Wanaka Camera Club Taking great pictures of snowsports is not as difficult as you might think. With a little thought, we can master a few basic photo techniques and be well on our way to finetuning this skill. A good ski picture is one that is sharply focused and captures the illusion of speed and action. Start by observing skiers’ actions before beginning. Timing our shot is key, as is knowing where to be positioned in relation to the skier. In order to freeze the motion, we are going to need to shoot at fast shutter speeds. It is worth noting that a slower shutter speed can be used to freeze our subject if it is moving straight towards us rather than moving perpendicularly. When considering exposure, we should remember snow is incredibly bright and will try to fool our camera’s built-in light meter. If we photograph snow using the camera’s automatic or program settings, our pictures are likely to come out grey and underexposed. To rectify this, go to the camera’s exposure compensation feature and increase exposure by around 1 to 1 ½ stops. By overexposing our image, the snow will turn out white – the way it should look. Use the camera’s histogram to finetune our picture to get the perfect exposure. Using a lens hood when shooting in snow is important, as the flare caused by the snow on a sunny day can make our photos look very hazy. Snow makes ideal fore and backgrounds and when combined with the use of colour can produce great pictures. The skier’s jacket and helmet are often colourful and add impact to our image. Look for features like a tree, a rock, signs or resort logos to add interest. Clean objects against a white background make for strong images. Typically, we want to position ourselves downhill from the athlete. It is often a good idea to exaggerate movement a little. If someone is making a turn, try to take the picture when they really sink their hips into the turn and carve around us - if they are jumping off something, attempt to take our shot when they tuck into a tight position. Anticipate where the action will happen and then shoot before this happens and continue shooting after, letting the situation unfold. Capture bursts of
PHOTO: supplied
WHITE R ROB journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz
PHOTO: Marg Balogh
images through each and every turn and don’t stop shooting until the skier is well past us. An aperture of f4 to f5.6 is a good basis to shoot with. Don’t be afraid to use high ISO (1000+) as modern cameras a very capable of producing amazing results at these levels. So that’s it! Winter sports photography is a lot of fun and not that difficult to master. So get out there and have some fun as Marg Balogh did with her picture ‘Focused.’ Marg took her picture last winter when she was the designated photographer for the Wanaka Ski Club ‘Race Your Mate’ day at Treble Cone. Marg took the picture lying flat on the ground so the angle would give a different perspective from an eye level shot. She liked the depth of field in the snow and the lighting conditions. Marg’s image showed great action and great sense of speed. The judge of the club’s monthly competition awarded the photo a ‘Merit.’ Marg used a Canon EOS 60D Camera attached to a EF S55-250mm lens set at as focal length of 163mm, aperture of f5.6, shutter of 1/1600th second and an ISO of 320. Wanaka Camera Club is dedicated to help improve the skills of anyone interested in photography. We welcome anyone, irrespective of photographic ability. If you know nothing about photography, we will teach you. Come along and see what we can do for you. Our next meeting is Monday February 12, 7.30pm at the St John Rooms, Link Way.
Otago Regional Council (ORC) has extended the deadline for feedback on plans to manage water levels in the Clutha River/Mata-au and its lakes and tributaries. The council is currently developing a change to Otago’s Water Plan that will include setting minimum flows and allocation limits for the Clutha River/ Mata-au and the Kawarau and Hawea Rivers. It will also address allocation limits for lakes Wakatipu, Wanaka, Hawea, Dunstan and Roxburgh. The ORC had originally planned to end public submissions on January 19, but this has now been extended to February 19. Tanya Winter, ORC
director of policy planning and resource management, said several members of the public had requested more time. “An extension isn’t going to impact our project timeframes or delay any deliverables around the plan change, so it made sense to leave that window of opportunity open a little bit longer for people to provide their feedback,” she said. The call for feedback is part of the first consultation stage and focuses on understanding how people use the river and its source lakes and tributaries. The second consultation stage, which will take place in spring 2018, will ask about potential water management options, while the third will see the preferred option presented to the public in autumn 2019.
Community backs settlement name change
PHOTO: supplied
BUTLER D DANIELLE newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz Lake Hawea residents will take their plight for a name change for the Gladstone Creek settlement to the Geographic Board for a second time. Resident Barbara Chinn said that it had been agreed by the Wanaka Community Board (WCB) that the name Gladstone, marking the settlement at the south-east corner of Lake Hawea on topographical maps, caused confusion to what locals had always referred to as John Creek. The Hawea Community Association agreed on an official name change to John Creek, after the family who first farmed there, last year. This remains unapproved by the Geographic Board because it
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doesn’t approve the use of the same names for both settlements and geographic features. “Many settlements in NZ do echo the name of their geographic feature, such as Tekapo, Wanaka, Lake Hawea, Aviemore, Taupo, etc.,” Barbara said. “The old town of Gladstone was never occupied, is confusing for the area and should be dropped. On occasions when an ambulance has been requested by telephone, the operator in Auckland constantly refuses to understand that there is a township called Lake Hawea, which is not a suburb of Gladstone.” The WCB has offered to supply a letter to be forwarded to the Geographic Board and Barbara is currently seeking further suggestions from the public to put to the board by Wednesday February 28.
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
What about the dogs?
Dear editor, We read about freedom campers and the mess they leave behind and the councils seem to be at a loss about how to deal with it. The government seems to have the same mindset. What about the dogs? Has anyone seen dog owners picking up the sxxx their dogs leave behind? I haven’t. I see lots of dogs being taken for walks running free. But what I saw last Sunday at 3.25 pm on Eely Point beach left me speechless! A black huntaway type of bitch and a blonde Labrador type of dog were running free amongst children and people with babies sitting on blankets. The black bitch went into the water up to her belly and sxxx into the water and the dog stood there with his nose a handwidth from her bum sniffing. AND NO ONE TOOK ANY NOTICE. Worse, some who could not help but see it were suddenly busy doing things that made them look in a different direction. These people were not foreigners, but NEW ZEALANDERS. Clean green NZ! Owning dogs is not just a right, but with it comes responsibility. That seems to have escaped many dog owners. A.Futschek
Keeping cool in the heat TURNBULL G GLENDA editor@thewanakasun.co.nz Temperatures continued to soar in Wanaka this week, with a scorching 35 degrees reached on Monday. Southern DHB’s Public Health team are urging the public to ‘Keep their Cool’ during this spate of very hot weather. Southern DHB medical officer of health Dr Keith Reid said, “Older people, children and those with underlying medical conditions are most at risk of the impacts of heat stress.” Dr Reid reminded people to take precautions to keep cool, such as regular fluid intake of at least two litres of water a day and staying out of the sun. “Outdoor workers might want to consider changing
working patterns to get more outside work done in the early morning or late evening when it is cooler.” Locals and animals alike were keeping cool this week, with swimming in the Lake or Albert Town swimming hole a very popular pastime. Wanaka is expected to get a reprieve from the hot weather of the last week today, Thursday February 1, and tomorrow, with an expected high today of 21 degrees and heavy rain forecast. On Friday, the expected high is only 17 degrees with rain easing to showers. Cardrona Alpine Resort is expecting an end to the heatwave with 24cm of snow predicted to fall on Thursday evening. Next week temperatures should return to normal, mainly in the low 20’s.
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No record for Lake level
PHOTO: Nikki Heath
TURNBULL G GLENDA editor@thewanakasun.co.nz PHOTO: Glenda Turnbull
Keeping cool at Albert Town swimming hole.
Despite the hot weather and lack of rain, the level of Lake Wanaka has not reached its lowest recorded level of 276.26 metres, recorded on September 25, 1935. Data collected by NIWA and Contact Energy showed the level on
Wednesday January 31 at 276.78 metres. One of the lowest levels ever recorded since records of the lake started occurred on Sunday June 11, 2017 at 14.25 when the lake level was 276.335 metres. Pictured: The lake level last June. Lake levels are recorded at water.orc. govt.nz.
a ak n d Wa ase B POLISHED CONCRETE FLOOR SPECIALIST Contact: 022 193 1080 info@polishedconcretecentral.co.nz Daisy, a five-and-a-half-year-old purebred Corgi from Wanaka, cools off in the lake.
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Horses in the shade at Waterfall Equestrian.
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Wanaka Salvation Army Family Store. Opening Hours – Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm, Saturday 9.30am – 4pm. We look forward to seeing you here! Donations kindly received. Please drop them into the Salvation Army Family store or ph 443 5068 to book a pick up. Business Networking International. The Wanaka chapter of BNI meets weekly at 7am Tuesday morning. Great networking opportunity to grow your business. Contact Vicki Donoghue for information 027 2089462. Rags, rags, rags ... little ones, big ones, cotton ones and drop cloths, available from the Wanaka Salvation Army Family Store 443 5068.
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Live-In Domestic Helper and Child Carer for family of Chinese and NZ descent living in Wanaka district. Must be experienced. Please forward CVs to PO Box 798 Wanaka 9343. Wanted by the Salvation Army Family Store, if any one has any spare pillow cases we would love them, please just drop them into the store, thanks. The Salvation Army Family store would like used glass spice jars with lids, to donate these please just pop them into the store in Brownston Street. Volunteers required at The Salvation Army Family store if you have some free time and would like to be part of a team which makes a difference, come and see us.
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Services Wanaka Pharmacy is your local pharmacy. We’re the big pharmacy at the top of Helwick Street - open from 8am until 8pm every single day. Ph 443 8000. If you have rented out your Wanaka house/ holiday home and you have some unopened or fresh food or toiletries, please remember your local foodbank at Community Networks, 73 Brownston St. Thank you! Bridging the generational gap: Are you a senior who would like to spend some time once a week with a volunteer visitor? Share your stories and make some new ones. To find out more contact Community Networks 03 443 7799 or email project coordinator Barbara Jungen, championforolderpeople@gmail.com WHEELS TO DUNSTAN –free shuttle service to Dunstan Hospital or Alexandra specialist appointments, also linking with the St Johns Health Shuttle to Dunedin Hospital. For bookings please call Community Networks on 03 443 7799 before 3pm the day before. Major sponsor Upper Clutha Transport. JP SERVICES are available at Community Networks every Tuesday from 1pm and Friday from 10.30am. Please book your appointment by ringing Community Networks 03 443 7799.
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CAN YOU NO LONGER DRIVE? The Total Mobility Scheme provides subsidised taxi services to people who have an impairment that prevents them from being able to drive. Contact Community Networks for more information on 443 7799. INLAND REVENUE are at Community Networks, Wednesday 21 February, 9am – 12.30pm. If you need help with your Tax return, Family Tax credits or the changes to Child support give Community Networks a call on 03 443 7799 to make an appointment for this free service.
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Wanaka Backyard Trapping Meeting 8 February 5.30 pm Wanaka Recreation Centre -
Sir Tim Wallis Drive (off Ballantyne Rd) All welcome to the inaugural meeting to discuss trapping predators in the Upper Clutha area and the group structure.
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ARCHITECTURAL DRAFTSPERSON WANTED This role at Minimal Design requires: • A working knowledge of residential and commercial construction. The successful candidate will possess: • Willingness to draw technical details & process technical calculations • Excellent attention to detail • Expert CAD/BIM skills • Google suite platform experience essential This role will require the successful candidate to be capable to work unsupervised to produce and coordinate complete working drawing packages and specifications. Typically, the duties include: • Manage client expectations and meet individual clients specific needs • Establish technical & consultant documentation • Drafting of architectural tender & construction issue documents Please send your CV, portfolio & cover letter to: lukas@minimaldesign.nz
N O T I C E B O A R D Notification of Draft Reserve Management Plan for specified Recreation Reserves in Wanaka PURSUANT TO SECTION 41 (6) RESERVES ACT 1977 the Council hereby notifies the Draft Reserve Management Plan for the following Wanaka Recreation Reserves: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Lismore Park Allenby Park Kelly’s Flat Faulks Terrace Domini Park Kennedy Crescent
The Draft Plan is designed to assist in the future management and development of the Recreation Reserve area. Submissions open on 1 February 2018. The Draft Reserve Management Plan is available for inspection at Queenstown Lakes District Council offices at 10 Gorge Road, Queenstown or 47 Ardmore Street, Wanaka. The Plan can also be found online at www.qldc.govt.nz. You can make a submission online at www.qldc.govt.nz/your-council/your-views/ or by email to services@qldc.govt.nz, with “Wanaka Recreation Reserves RMP” in the subject line; or post to Queenstown Lakes District Council, Private Bag 50072, Queenstown 9348, marked for the attention of the Parks and Reserves Planner. Submissions close 3 April 2018. All submissions will be made public but we do not publish your contact details. A hearing will be held in 2018 for any party to present their submission in person. Please ensure that you indicate in your submission if you wish to speak to at the hearing.
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Free delivery to Wanaka, Cromwell and surrounds, PO boxes in Makarora, Cromwell, Haast, Wanaka, Albert Town and Hawea. Also distributed to businesses in the Wanaka business district Average circulation: 15,000 weekly. Phone: 03 443 5252 • Fax: 03 443 5250 Editor: Glenda Turnbull • editor@thewanakasun.co.nz Journalists: Danielle Butler • newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz Rob White • journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz Social Media: Nikki Heath • hello@thewanakasun.co.nz Advertising: 021 786 740 adrep@thewanakasun.co.nz
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Movie Star for Warbirds REPORTER S STAFF editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
PHOTO: supplied
A UK-based Buchon Messerschmitt-109 which represented the German fighter aircraft in the movie Dunkirk will be performing at this Easter’s Warbirds Over Wanaka International Airshow. The Buchon has been confirmed to replace the Polikarpov I-16, which had been coming to Wanaka from its base in Germany but had to be withdrawn at the last minute because of mechanical problems. Warbirds Over Wanaka general manager Ed Taylor said that while it was disappointing that the Polikarpov would not be able to attend, they were
thrilled to welcome the Buchon back after it was a huge attraction two years ago. “The crowd loved seeing both the aircraft itself, plus witnessing the top flying skills of owner and pilot John Romain, one of the UK’s best Warbirds pilots,” Ed said. The aircraft, which is based at Duxford airfield in England, is something of a movie star. As well as appearing in ‘Dunkirk’, its credits also include the 1968 ‘Battle of Britain’ movie and the 2008 Tom Cruise movie ‘Valkyrie’. When the aircraft was here in 2016, it sported the ‘Yellow 10’ colour scheme from the Battle of Britain movie. This time it will be decked out in its ‘Dunkirk’ colour scheme.
PHOTO: Sean Beale/Sweatband Photography
Athletes battle against heat in Big Easy WHITE R ROB journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz Almost 200 athletes from across New Zealand and the world took part in the 2018 Big Easy over the weekend. Four events were on offer on Saturday January 27, including the Ultra Easy 100k Sky Run, The Big Easy Marathon Run (44km), a 12km river trail run and a 44km mountain bike race. The events were big yet far from easy amid sweltering temperatures, but race director Terry Davis said that although the heat was a concern, it had been a very successful day. “The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. It was a new course and people really liked the changes for the mountain biking and mountain marathon. We were also very appreciative of the landowners’ support. “We had fewer people turn up
on the day, probably because the forecast was so hot. We were very, very happy that we didn’t have any heat-related issues. We had water and ice and people finished near the Luggate Creek, so they were able to get into the creek. “In the pre-race briefing, we told people to take it easy. I said anyone who sets a course record would be disqualified!” he said. The 100km Sky Run, which began at 3am in Luggate and took in Mount Iron, Roy’s Peak and the Little Criffel Track, was won by Blake Turner (men’s) in 12:35:33 and Becky Nixon (women’s) in 14:58:55. ‘Rowan and Friends’ won the team event (10:44:30), while Dan Borquez (3:49:47) and Anna O’Byrne (4:37:05) took first in the respective mountain marathons. Wanaka teenager Tyler Sargison won the mountain bike race in 1:55:02, more than ten minutes ahead of second place.
sports results
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Wanaka Progressive Bowls 19.01.18 - Skips 1 C Kiewiet 2 G Russell 3 I Fletcher Thirds 1 D McLeay 2 G Hall 3 B Steel Leads 1 J Rich 2 F Beardsley 3 N Matheson. 26.1.18 - Skips 1 C Kiewiet 2 I Fletcher 3 B Dawson Thirds 1 L Wells 2 G Hall Leads 1 T Tattersfield 2 J Rich 3 J Hill. Wanaka Bridge Results - (Wed) N/S 1st Bruce Cathie, Kate Summers 64.53%. 2nd Noeline Munro, Helen Henshall 54.49% 3rd Kay Ross, Deirdre Lynch 53.63%. E/W 1st Denise & Alan Bunn 63.19%. 2nd Michael Chapman-Smith, Angela Heising 60.88%. 3rd Neil Robinson, Tommie Munns 56.06%. (Fri-H/Cap) 1st Alwyne Haworth, Carolyn Field 54.64%. 2nd Jan Cunningham, Madeleine Reveley 52.60%. 3rd Judy Briggs, Sally Goodall 51.15%. E/W 1st Michael Chapman-Smith, Angela Heising 57.35%. 2nd Shona Watt, Jenny Muir 52.43%. 3rd Lynne Fegan, David Brewer 46.97%. (Mon) N/S 1st Michael Metzger, Liz Hawker 62.50%. 2nd Sherril Harries, Maggie Stratford 55.49%. 3rd Georgie Roberts, Allan Kelly 54.17%. E/W 1st Alan & Paul Cushnie 66.48%. 2nd Freda Ryder, Sue Orbell 57.58%. 3rd John & Jan Lyness 54.17%.
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Silver medal for Horan
PHOTO: Supplied
REPORTER S STAFF editor@thewanakasun.co.nz Wanaka Rowing Club sent 13 junior rowers to the South Island Championships at Lake Ruataniwha last weekend, with Rata Horan coming away with a silver medal. The rowers, all students at Mount Aspiring College, were entered in 12 events. Coach Rob Bruce said water conditions were perfect, but a new race programme with a variety of classes close together made racing in the extreme heat a challenge for some of the younger rowers. The star of the weekend was 15-year-old Rata Horan (pictured) who won silver in the girls under 16 single sculls. Rata had the fastest qualifying time in the heat and led all the way in the final, but was pipped on the finish line. Rata joined forces with Peta Mckay (our top Under 17 sculler) in the Club Double. A steering problem with the boat contributed to them just missing qualification to the A Final. They won the B Final, with fellow teammates Maggie Stiven and Greer Porter coming second. Jordan Fox and Estelle Norman (15) raced in the Club doubles, missing the finals. Rata, Peta, Maggie and Greer qualified for the A Final of the Under-19 quadruple sculls coxed by Patrick Hartley, finishing eighth. Peta, Greer and Jordan all raced in the Club single. Peta was third in her heat, qualifying for the A Final where she finished fifth. Greer qualified for the B final where she placed fourth and Jordan performed well in the heat, but was a little off the pace. Sam Pearce raced well in the Boys Under-19 single sculls, qualifying second for the final. He just missed
PHOTO: supplied
GODZone team line-up released WHITE R ROB journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz PHOTO: Supplied
out on the medals in the final, coming fourth. The under-16 Squad of Estelle Norman, Sophie Fenn, Sophie Hodgkiss-Blyth, Quinn Curtis, Owen Lea (all 15) and Maddie Frazer (14) plus coxswain Patrick Hartley (15) also had some good results. Quin Curtis and Owen Lea had credible races in the Under-16 singles, with Quinn qualifying for the B Final where he placed fifth. Sophie Hodgkiss-Blyth (novice) and Maddie Fraser (15) teamed up in the girls intermediate doubles, having to race to the start due to waiting for a boat. They finished the race and literally jumped out of their double and into the Under-16 Quad with Estelle Norman and Sophie Fenn in a very quick change-over, qualifying for the B final. Estelle and Sophie also raced the under-16 single, with Estelle qualifying for the A final and Sophie the B final.
The official team list for GODZone has been released and organisers have confirmed more than 390 adventure racers will take part, making this year’s event the largest in its history. The 2018 race will also include packrafting, adding to a program which already includes orienteering, mountain biking, kayaking, trekking, canoeing and fixed ropes. Event director Warren Bates said the huge field included people from all over the world. “Not only do we have our largest field ever, we also have a wide geographical spread of countries represented that includes Argentina, France, Canada, United Kingdom, Japan, United States and South Africa. There is also a strong Australian representation led by A1 Series National Champions,
Thunderbolt AR. “It is a showcase of national and international multisport talent and is indicative of a rise of interest in adventure racing globally.” The event has also attracted some well-known faces, including famous rugby players and multisports athletes. “Nathan Fa’avae is back racing after a couple of years hiatus with his wife Jodi, Mark Rayward and Dan Moore and they won’t be going slow. Richie McCaw returns with Bob McLachlan, Rob Nichol and Sarah Fairmaid and they will be looking to step up. “The British Royal Air Force have a team led by Jamie Buckle competing to mark the RAF 100th year anniversary this year and we have ex-Springbok Stefan Terblanche racing with the Merrell team from South Africa,” Warren added. GODZone 2018 runs from March 1-10.
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NZ Winter Olympic Team largest ever REPORTER S STAFF editor@thewanakasun.co.nz New Zealand will send their largest team ever to the PyeongChang 2018 Olympic Winter Games after the naming of five additional athletes, bringing the team size to 21. Alpine ski racer Alice Robinson (16) of Queenstown, one of those named on the weekend, will now become New Zealand’s youngest winter Olympian, born eight days after freeskier Nico Porteous. Alice (pictured competing) will be joined by fellow New Zealand alpine ski team members Adam Barwood (25) and Willis Feasey (25). Adam also represented New Zealand at the 2014 Sochi Games. Alice will compete in Slalom and Giant Slalom while Adam and Willis will compete in the men’s Slalom, Giant Slalom and Super-G. Freeski halfpipe athlete Britt Hawes (27) and snowboard cross racer Duncan Campbell (21) complete the team. Chef de Mission Pete Wardell, who is currently in PyeongChang preparing to formally register the New Zealand team for the games said, “It’s absolutely fantastic! These athletes have had a high pressure season working towards this moment and with just two weeks to games time, I’m delighted they have made it. “The Olympic Games environment is extremely tough and to meet the selection standards set by the New Zealand Olympic Committee is an achievement itself. I’m
very much looking forward to supporting them in PyeongChang as they wear the fern with pride. “The fact we are sending our biggest team ever shows the increasing depth of talent and skill in New Zealand’s winter sport high performance community.” Having only become eligible to compete in senior competition during the 2017 New Zealand winter, Alice Robinson has made a rapid rise through the world rankings, surpassing even her own goals and expectations. “I am feeling extremely honoured and grateful for being selected in to the New Zealand team for the upcoming games,” said Alice. “I am so happy to be given this opportunity and am super-excited to be competing at my first games so young. Starting my first year of FIS (open grade racing) this season, the idea of the Olympics seemed like a long shot, so I am so happy that my results over the past six months paid off and gave me a spot on the team. When I think back to the start of the year I wouldn’t have thought that I would be selected, it’s a dream come true.” Wanaka locals Nico and Miguel Porteus, Finn Bilous, Zoi Sadowski Synnott, Janina Kuzma and Byron, Beau-James and Jackson Wells will all compete, with Jossi Wells having to withdraw due to his rehabilitation from injury not being complete. New Zealand’s previous largest Olympic Winter Team was 18 at Torino 2006.
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