Wanaka Sun | 15 - 21 December 2016 | Edition 796

DRESSAGE CHAMPIONS

INSIDE THIS WEEK CHRISTMAS GIFTS: Page 7 YOUR VIEWS: PAGE 11 SPORTS: PAGE 15

Jessie Fraser and horse Johnnie are celebrating their victory.

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MOTOCROSS WINNER Wanaka local Jody Tuffs made history by taking out the ladies Southern Series Motocross Championship.

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28 Reece Crescent Wanaka ph 03 443 8176 | www.guthriebowron.co.nz

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Santa’s a big hit DANIELLE BUTLER newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

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nother successful visit from Santa came to its conclusion last weekend, with more than 1600 people turning up to the Upper Clutha Community Christmas Trust’s grotto.

The grotto, which was set up at the Upper Clutha Rugby Club from Saturday December 3 until Sunday December 11, was a “fantastic hit” according to organiser Jen Andrews.

“The comments coming back were great. I want to give a massive thank you to everyone who helped create it, to the volunteers who helped out and everyone who had an input on the day. It was so nice to see,” Jen said.

She added that the calibre of the company Christmas trees was particularly high this year, with Holy Family School’s tree coming third, Black Peak Gelato’s tree coming second and New World’s tree

coming first for the second year running in a public vote.

“There was a wonderful effort put in which was really cool to see,” Jen said.

Some extra Christmas cheer comes with the news that the community raised $3600 to support Kaikoura at the lighting of Wanaka’s Christmas tree on Friday December 2.

This money will be transferred to Kaikoura Lion Club’s bank account this week and will then be distributed to where it is needed the most.

Pictured: An excited group of Kiwi and Irish cousins (back) Kitty, Ethan, Ned, Joshua, (front) Odie, Amelia and Donncha piled into Santa’s sleigh on Sunday to have a chat about his upcoming deliveries.

PHOTO: WANAKA SUN

Abseil engineer joins quake relief effort GLENDA TURNBULL journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz n engineering team who worked on the Via Ferrata at Treble Cone’s Twin Falls has headed to Kaikoura to help with the relief effort.

Engineering inspector Brendan Clark of Abseil Access, who carries out non-destructive testing across the Central Lakes and Otago regions, has been using his expertise to carry out remedial work securing rocks in problem areas on SH70 from Waiau to Kaikoura and SH1 south of Kaikoura heading to Christchurch.

The work, which Brendan began on November 18, has consisted of setting up ropes, abseiling into problem areas, conducting an inspection and then carrying out any required remedial work.

“It’s very interesting work and also can be quite physical. The remedial work so far has just been scaling and air bagging, which is using high pres-

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PHOTO: BRENDAN CLARK

engineering inspection, but I have an interest in engineering geology so I was only too happy to help out.”

Brendan’s efforts form part of a large safety improvement work

266 Lakeview Terrace, Lake Hawea Deadline Private Treaty (unless sold prior)

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sure inflatable sleeves to push rocks down,” Brendan said.

“This isn’t my normal line of work, but I really wanted to be involved in the relief effort. I normally do QA/QC

programme by the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) as it tries to establish an alternative state highway route in time for Christmas.

NZTA’s regional performance manager Pete Connors said that a substantial programme of safety and strengthening work is ramping up along the alternate state highway route from Picton to Christchurch, via the Lewis Pass.

Pete said that crews were working hard to clear slips generated by the November 14 earthquakes and that the immediate focus is being put into upgrading SH63 near St Arnaud in the weeks leading up to Christmas. The road will be resealed at 14 sites and widened with repairs at several sites.

With road work on the alternate route underway, it is currently expected to be complete

by Christmas.

Pictured: Brendan’s photo of the mountainsides “scarred everywhere with landslides” towards Seaward Kaikoura as the heavy rain clears after the earthquake.

57 Meadowstone Drive, Wanaka Deadline Private Treaty (unless sold prior)

4pm, Fri 16 Dec 2016

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This year's Wanaka Sun Christmas Food Bank Drive will take place on the evening of Tues, 20 Dec 2016

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Ballantyne Road safety options GLENDA TURNBULL journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz

Sustainable homes group GLENDA TURNBULL journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz A group of industry professionals concerned with the need to improve housing stock in the region have formed a steering committee, Sustainable Homes Organisation (SHO) - Central Otago, to support the New Zealand Green Building Council (NZGBC) Homestar rating system for assessing the sustainability of a residence.

NZGBC’s CEO Andrew Eagles met with 20 industry professionals, including members of SHO, to give an update on the market position of NZGBC and share his vision.

“My goal is to make Homestar mainstream,” he said.

The Homestar rating system evaluates the performance of a home on a scale of one to ten, with a high score representing a high-performing and sustainable residence.

A new, modern home built to minimum New Zealand building code would generally achieve a three to four star rating, and existing homes two to three stars. The goal is for homes to score a minimum of six, which indicates noticeable improvements in levels of warmth, dryness, health, and water and energy efficiency.

Group member and Otago Regional Council Councillor Maggie Lawton said Queenstown Lakes District

Council (QLDC) are encouraging the use of the Homestar rating system in the proposed District Plan.

“We are trying to promote sustainable homes and using Homestar will assist this. We would like to see the Homestar system being used in the design of every new home,” Maggie said.

SHO-Central Otago members include representatives from Evolution, a division of Rilean Construction, eZed Ltd, Mark Gray Architect, QUBE, SeeChangeNZ Ltd, Hiberna, Maggie Lawton and Luggate Architect Jessica Eyers.

SHO-Central Otago spokesperson Annabelle Numaguchi said, “We hope to see better building practices become standard, and this rating system strongly encourages this by offering a way of comparing homes based on performance, not just aesthetics.”

The non-profit steering group would liaise between the community and NZGBC to ensure the points used to determine a Homestar score accurately reflected thermal efficiency and sustainability in practice.

QLDC has proposed initiatives to promote Homestar by offering incentives for a residence achieving a six star.

Pictured: Group members Paula Hugens, Denise Henkenhaf, Mark Gray, Lisa Burroughs, Annabelle Numaguchi and Jessica Eyers.

The Wanaka Community Board (WBC) considered a report presenting the options considered to address the safety issues on the unsealed section of Ballantyne Road.

The report was prepared following a council workshop on November 15 to progress the short- and longterm solutions to address the issues on Ballantyne Road.

There has been a significant number of accidents on the road and the council was asked to urgently address the safety situation after the death of local teenager Jackson Aitchison who was killed when his car left the road and hit a tree in October.

Queenstown Lakes District Council senior engineer Andrew Edgar prepared the report and recommended the council, “improve the road to full seal standard as it reduces the risk of crashes

and assists the growth of Wanaka and satellite towns by providing a safe, alternative route to the state highway.”

Estimates for the work are $315,000 for design and $2.1 million for construction. The report recommended that joint funding with New Zealand Transport Agency be explored.

The report also recommended signage and dust suppression for the short-term solution. The cost of this would be in the order of $180,000 and would be funded from existing budgets.

Brian Lloyd said, “It is a frightening experience following a small truck on Ballantyne Road with the dust being picked up by the wind. I am gratified to see that there will PHOTO: NIKKI HEATH be some spraying on the road to help minimise this.”

WCB chairperson Rachel Brown said the spraying of the dust suppressant was to occur this summer.

“It is a product that has been used on forestry roads previously and we will be trialling it over summer.”

The WCB adopted the report and the next step is for council officers to apply to the New Zealand Transport Agency for funding to seal the road.

CCTV a helpful tool for Police veillance in a new area, they are easy to relocate,” Sergeant Nicholson said.

He also advised the traffic branch would be targeting speed, drink driving and seat belts over the Christmas New Year period, with a liquor ban in force from December 1 to January 4. There would also be a 4kph tolerance to be in force.

The main issues the watchhouse had to deal with in recent times were complaints about parking at Roys Peak, parking on the waterfront and freedom camping.

He said if members of the public had information about a crime to contact Police in confidence.

“CIB receive a lot of confidential information.

They use that to build intelligence and we would like people to take ownership of that information and contact us and feel confident that they can talk to us in confidence.”

GLENDA TURNBULL journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz Sergeant Aaron Nicholson told the Wanaka Community Board on Wednesday December 14 that CCTV cameras installed around the town have been priceless in terms of helping Police with their investigations.

“They are a really helpful tool. They aid us in forming a full picture of an event and footage has helped us apprehend offenders,” Sergeant Nicholson said.

Queenstown Lakes District Council councillor Ross McRobie asked whether there were enough of them installed or whether the town needed more.

“We could always use more, but the ones that we have are able to be moved, so if we need sur-

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ANNUAL

WANAKA SUN

CHRISTMAS

FOOD BANK DRIVE

WANAKA, TUESDAY 20 DECEMBER, FROM 6PM PHOTO: JAMES BLUNT

Jetty installation underway GLENDA TURNBULL journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz The installation of the new jetty in Roys Bay is underway. It is being upgraded and installed by Bellingham Marine Ltd. PAGE 2

Piles are currently being installed (pictured) at the site.

Queenstown Lakes District Council communications manager Michele Poole said the council is still working towards having it completed

by Christmas.

The donations collected on the Wanaka Sun Christmas Food Bank Drive will be given to Community Networks Wanaka to fill their food bank and make up their Christmas hampers for local families in need.

Wanaka Sun is proud to support

will be on MT BARKER Collection Tuesday from 4pm. will be on HAWEA Collection Sunday 18 Dec from 2pm.

Enquiries to Nikki Heath ph 443-5252 (ext 0)

LISTEN OUT FOR THE SIRENS THURSDAY 15.12.16 - WEDNESDAY 21.12.16

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Listen out for the sirens DANIELLE BUTLER newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz As the Wanaka Sun’s ninth annual Christmas Food Bank Drive draws near, organisers and recipients are driving home how important it is.

Last month, organiser Alan McKay said that figures from Community Networks had shown that the food donated to food banks is needed now more than ever, and now a Christmas hamper recipient has come forward to express thanks.

The single parent-of-two, who did not wish to be named, has received a hamper several times and said that it has been a huge help in the past.

“The hamper makes a huge difference to my stress levels at what can be a financially stressful time

of year, as I do not have to worry about where the extra-to-my-budget special Christmas dinner ingredients are going to come from. The fact that the hamper has so many things in it means we get to experience some treats over the holidays too,” the recipient said.

This year Hawea’s collection will take place on Sunday December 18 from 2pm and the Wanaka collection will be on Tuesday December 20 from 6pm, with Mt Barker’s collection taking place at 4pm.

To donate goods on the day, listen out for the sirens or to volunteer to help, contact Lake Hawea fire chief Brent Arthur on 021 334482 for the Hawea collection or Nikki Heath on 03 443 5252 for the Wanaka collection.

Real Christmas trees or fake?

GLENDA TURNBULL journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz For those of you who want a “real” Christmas tree this year, a fine specimen that will have that lovely smell of pine permeating the house and make you feel closer to nature, you may be asking “where do I get one?”

Queenstown Lakes District Council communications officer Michele Poole said that was a tricky question.

“We don’t want to sound like the Grinch, but if people want a

“real” tree, it would be better to get it from one of the groups that sell them as a fundraiser.”

It is an offence under the Reserves Act to take trees from QLDC reserves.

“If they want to cut their own, they need the permission of the landowner if the tree is on private property. If people want to take them from a roadside they need the proper safety equipment and training before using a chainsaw on a road reserve,” Michele said.

Sounds like it might be easier to stick with the “fake” one this year.

Community House agreement GLENDA TURNBULL journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz Wanaka Community House Charitable Trust (WCHCT) has reached agreement with the parties appealing the Resource Consent granted by the Queenstown Lakes District Council in July this year.

WCHCT applied for resource consent for a community building including offices and meeting rooms for community groups and government agencies and a 140 seat church hall located in a low density residential area next to the Anglican Church in McDougall Street.

A group of residents lodged the appeal citing inadequate car parking provision, cumulative effects and more-than-minor adverse environmental effects.

The consent order issued by the Christchurch Environment Court outlines the amendment to the Resource Consent agreed to by the parties and

season

Virgin Australia and Air New Zealand this week announced the introduction of night flights between Queenstown and Australia for the first time during the 2017 ski season.

Subject to regulatory approval, Virgin Australia will operate night services from Queenstown to Brisbane on Friday and Sunday from June 23, 2017, while Air New Zealand will operate night services from Queenstown to Sydney on Saturday and Sunday from July 1, 2017.

The trans-Tasman alliance

partners will offer 38 return services each week between Australia and Queenstown during the 2017 ski season.

Air New Zealand chief revenue officer Cam Wallace said: “Air New Zealand introduced the first domestic evening services between Auckland and Queenstown in May this year, and is pleased to be part of an alliance initiative to now offer customers trans-Tasman night flights.”

The airlines will continue to work with the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority and Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority to establish the new services.

Swimmer drowns in Kawarau River GLENDA TURNBULL journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz Police can confirm a 19-year-old man has died after getting into difficulties while swimming in Kawarau River on Saturday December 10.

Earlier reports by police that the man was recovered from Lake THE WANAKA SUN

Dunstan were incorrect.

A second person who also got into difficulty made it to shore safely.

Emergency services were called to the incident just after 1pm, but were stood down.

The weather was warm at the time with light winds at the popular swimming spot off Cairnmuir Road, Bannockburn.

give the gift of L e at h e r this Christmas S tat u s anxiety Accessories at

Trans-Tasman night flights for Queenstown STAFF REPORTER editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

states that the development must be carried out in accordance with plans prepared by architect Sarah Scott and landscaping plans by Rough and Milne.

Condition 30 of the consent has been amended to give QLDC the right to serve notice on WCHCT within three, six and nine months after the community house opens to deal with any adverse affects of the environment that may arise that were not foreseen at the time of the consent.

WCHCT chairperson Suki Turner said, “We are absolutely delighted that the process has PHOTO: GLENDA TURNBULL been finalised for the benefit of the community of the Upper Clutha and we can now focus on the job that we were told to do as a trust. The impediments have all disappeared.”

Suki said the next thing was to raise the funds necessary for detailed drawings.

“We are looking forward to getting started on it in the New Year.”

Where is Santa?

This year finding Santa will be a little different. Santa will be found in 12 different places over 12 days of Christmas starting Saturday the 10th till Wednesday 21st.

He will be somewhere different every day in local businesses. Restaurant ... trade store, cafe, Email answers by 3pm Wednesday 21st December to jen@radiowanaka.co.nz Great prizes up for grabs.

THURSDAY 15.12.16 - WEDNESDAY 21.12.16

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Couple cycle to save a life DANIELLE BUTLER newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

PHOTO: ERIC SCHUSSER

MAC student wins art award STAFF REPORTER editor@thewanakasun.co.nz Cromwell’s Hullabaloo Art Space has donated arts prizes to Mount Aspiring College and Cromwell College students. The prizes have been given in memory of Hawea photographer and picture framer Kay Todd who was a member of Hullabaloo for seven years.

Student Hannah Davey is this year’s Mount Aspiring College recipi-

ent, pictured with her prize winning photo ‘Tea party for one’ which is part of her portfolio for the NCEA. Hannah is working towards becoming a photographer. She will start her Bachelor of Arts, including psychology as she is interested in people’s responses to photography and being photographed, at Otago University next year. The year 13 student’s prize-winning work can be viewed at Hullabaloo Art Space until January 9.

A British couple living in Wanaka have just returned from a mammoth bike ride across New Zealand, all to raise money for a friend’s lifesaving cancer treatment.

Steph Bryant and Alex Taylor cycled around 2200km in 50 days from Bluff to Cape Reinga, raising £4390 (around $7720) so far for Momenul Haque’s, also known as Mo, last attempt at cancer treatment.

Mo was diagnosed with terminal colon cancer two years ago at the age of 31, and when chemotherapy treatment didn’t work he was told that his last option, immunotherapy treatment, wasn’t funded by the UK’s healthcare system and so he would need to undergo the £200,000 (around $351,694) treatment privately.

Steph said, “this obviously isn’t the kind of spare change most people have in their bank accounts and we were horrified that a life could be cut short for financial reasons especially when the treatment is available and has a 70 percent cure rate.”

“For this reason we decided that we needed to do something about it which is why we took on the challenge of cycling the country. He needs a huge amount of money so we needed a huge challenge.”

The pair are hoping to add to the amount already raised for Mo. To donate and learn more about their challenge, visit justgiving.com and search for pedalformo.

Cheque for St John’s volunteers

To thank Wanaka’s St John volunteers for a year of serving the community, Wyndham Vacation Resorts Wanaka team cooked a barbecue for volunteers and their families and handed over a $700 cheque. Resort staff raised the money beef or venison. through sausage sizzles, selling cookies and staff Judges travelled across the country, fundraising events, including a healthy cooking tasting and scoring dishes based on competition and a ‘happy hat’ day. presentation, meat cookery, comple"St John volunteers provide an invaluable menting elements, taste and texture, service to the Wanaka community and we are very creativity and dish promotion. pleased to be able to show our thanks and support Mario’s dish was picked out by in this way,” resort manager Kaydee George said. judges for its sophisticated and inSt John Ambulance local chairperson, Dell novative version of steak and onions.

Taylor, said the resort was making a valuable Mario will find out if he is one of contribution to the local community. “We really five category winners or the supreme appreciate that Wyndham Wanaka is supporting winner in February 2017. our local volunteers to provide an essential service to the community. The funds will go towards helping our qualified staff continue their studies to be paramedics serving our local community.”

Pictured: Abby McKone, guest service agent, with the cheque.

Simple steak through to finals DANIELLE BUTLER newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz One of Wanaka’s top chefs has made it to the finals of the Silver Fern Farms Premier Selection Awards with his steak and onions.

Bistro Gentil’s Mario Rodrigues is among 12 finalists to be selected from 73 entrants, who were each required to create an original dish using Silver Fern Farms cuts of lamb,

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Lismore Park trial successful GLENDA TURNBULL journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz

PHOTO: STEVE DYKES

R&A star-studded lineup STAFF REPORTER editor@thewanakasun.co.nz Kiwi favourite six60 will headline a star-studded line up for Rhythm & Alps 2016.

Sixty homegrown and international acts have been confirmed for the music festival, held at Robrosa Station in Cardrona Valley on December 29-31.

While six60, pictured, is set to ring in 2017 on the Alpine Arena main stage, award-winning Pacific Heights and Kiwi electronic pioneers Pitch Black are also among the 30 acts to perform on New PAGE 4

Year’s Eve. R&A festival director Alex Turnbull said the lineup is one of the event’s most diverse to date, with its eclectic mix of top acts in various music genres.

“We’ve really focused on securing acclaimed, quality acts, both from around New Zealand and internationally,” he said. “We are really excited about the lineup – its general appeal is reflected in the strong ticket sales so far.”

R&A is the South Island’s biggest annual New Year’s party and music festival. About 7000 people are expected to attend the 2016 event.

The Queenstown Lakes District Council implemented a trial for Lismore Park after concern was raised about the state of the grass and the rabbit control problem.

The trial involved refraining from mowing the grass for a period of time to see whether this would improve the soil.

QLDC parks and reserves planning manager Stephen Quin said, “the trial has been successful and the soil is improving. We have had some

comments that the longer grass could be a fire risk, but the grass does not pose a potential fire risk.”

Councillors asked whether the park needed a tidy up before Christmas.

“Ultimately a level of service can be considered through the management plan. It was a conscious decision by the council to do this and it has been successful. To have manicured grass comes at a greater cost,” Stephen said.

He suggested that the level of service and weed control for Lismore Park be considered through the Management Plan.

WCB monthly drop-in sessions GLENDA TURNBULL journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz Wanaka Community Board chairperson Rachel Brown is reintroducing monthly drop-in sessions in the new year.

Rachel instigated the sessions in the last term of council.

“These were opportunities for members of the public to call in to the office in Ardmore Street to raise any questions, concerns or suggestions THURSDAY 15.12.16 - WEDNESDAY 21.12.16

about council activities, projects or policies. It fulfilled a need in the community for those people who prefer a quiet chat rather than the more formal approaches to council.”

Rachel believes the drop-in sessions need to occur on a regular basis. People did not need to make an appointment and the sessions were for two hours between 11am and 1pm.

They will be held on the first Wednesday of every month, beginning on Wednesday February 1, 2017.

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Increase in seasonal workers for RSE STAFF REPORTER editor@thewanakasun.co.nz Central Otago wine makers and orchardists will welcome news that the number of seasonal workers who can come to New Zealand to work in the horticulture and viticulture industry under the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme has been increased by 1000 for the 2016/17 season.

The current cap of 9500 has been increased to 10,500 RSE workers for the 2016-17 season.

Waitaki MP Jacqui Dean said she has been working hard to ensure the Minister of Immigration understands the importance of the Recognised Seasonal Employment Scheme to the Central Otago community.

She is pleased to see the increase

SUN NEWS

Anna’s best song picks up perfect score DANIELLE BUTLER newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

Hawea children’s songstress Anna van Riel has picked up the ultimate accolade at the Australian but “would have liked to have Songwriters Association National Songwriting seen more”.

Awards, becoming the second person ever to “Local growers constantly tell me achieve a perfect score. how important the RSE scheme is, Anna, pictured, collected her award for Best providing them with the staffing Children’s Song at the awards ceremony in Sydney security that they need to grow their last night (Wednesday December 14) and perbusinesses,” she said. formed winning track Cooking Up a Song for the Immigration Minister Michael audience, which included INXS one-time singer Woodhouse said the horticulture Jon Stevens and the sister of late INXS member and viticulture industry is New Michael Hutchence, who was inducted into the Zealand’s fourth largest export Australian Songwriters Hall of Fame. industry, producing almost $5 billion Mother-of-two Anna said that she was thrilled in exports. that children’s music was being acknowledged “The industry has forecast an adalongside a range of other genres. ditional 2500 workers will be needed “It is really wonderful that we are acknowledging for the upcoming season,” he said. children’s music and putting it in the limelight.

“The increase of 1000 RSE workers This music is what cultivates knowledge for little shows the government is committed people, and having it as a performance amongst to enabling the industry to conall the other genres of music highlights that we’re tinue to grow and maximise export valuing children’s music,” she said. returns, while ensuring jobs aren’t More than 3000 people entered the awards being taken from New Zealanders.” across all genres and Anna became the second person ever in the 35 years of the competition to be awarded a perfect score, which is based on how the song tells a story, how catchy it is and how well formed the hook is amongst other criteria.

“There was some great musical judges, and I Queenstown Lakes District Council couldn’t have scored any higher, which feels really communications manager Michele great,” Anna said.

Poole said that animals aren’t Anna praises the likes of fellow New Zealand allowed to be buried in public places children’s artist Captain Festus McBoyle and in this district, including reserves and children’s entertainer Suzy Cato, who she grew beaches. up with.

“It can be very upsetting when pets “Suzy really paved the way for Kiwi kids artists die, and we understand that people and established a connection there and a support don’t always think clearly when network. There’s some really outstanding Kiwi choosing a spot to bury their dog or artists doing children’s music and I want people to pet, which may have been the case get behind Kiwi kid’s music,” Anna said. with the dog Mr Hadida is referring In a month of success, Anna is also celebrating to,” Michele said.“Pets need to be receiving funding from Creative New Zealand for buried on private land, and most two tours next year. people prefer to do this anyway.”

Anna, whose first childhood school in Western Southland taught just 25 students, plans to tour small schools on the West Coast in February and the Deep South at around Easter time in her Off

Public pet grave shocks walkers DANIELLE BUTLER newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz The emergence of a deceased dog buried on public ground has caused a stir at Waterfall Creek.

Local resident Mark Hadida spotted the dog on a recent walk past the willow tree at the top end of Waterfall Creek beach, and asks whoever buried it to remove it or bury it deeper.

“Whilst it was beautiful when alive, it morbidly watches you as you walk past,” Mark said.

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The Beaten Track Tour.

The smallest school Anna will visit has just 11 students on its roll.

“These are schools with hardly any children and only one teacher sometimes. No-one ever visits them and so for someone to go there is a big deal,” Anna said.

Anna has received two letters of support for the tour, one from a teacher in a 35 student school in Tuturau near Gore and one from a teacher on Stewart Island.

Anna said that it will be the first time anyone has ever come to perform live for the Tuturau students, and that the Stewart Island students only get one music lesson a week via Skype with the tutor coming into school for one week each term.

“They have to get a boat to see a concert and even after that they have to think about buses and accommodation. Some special needs schools can’t go out to public concerts as the students cannot cope in that environment.”

“A lot of schools don’t have the funding and the support and for someone like me to go and put a concert together is just gold. The children will remember that for a really long time,” she said.

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Fri 23rd Dec 7.30am - 5.30pm Christmas Eve Sat 24th Dec 8am - 5pm Christmas Day Sun 25th Dec CLOSED Boxing Day Mon 26th Dec 8am - 5pm Public Holiday Tues 27th Dec 8am - 5pm

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Wanaka welcomes 15 new Kiwis

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Annual roadside clean up PHOTO: SUPPLIED

DANIELLE BUTLER newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz Fifteen Wanaka residents were granted citizenship last week in the Queenstown Lakes District’s largest citizenship ceremony to date.

Mayor Jim Boult welcomed the district’s 45 new citizens in his second citizenship ceremony as

Mayor on Friday December 9.

James Brereton, Alison Brereton, Noreen Montemayor, Ryzi Montemayor, Celeste Rumore, Lee Davis, Tully Stevens, Steven Rumore, Jennifer Rumore, Nicholas Rumore, Katie Ross, John Mezger, Wendy Frith, Malcolm Frith and Gemma Kaler are pictured with Mayor Jim Boult and the rest of the district’s new citizens at the ceremony.

STAFF REPORTER editor@thewanakasun.co.nz Cardrona Valley residents and Cardrona Alpine Resort staff took part in the annual roadside clean up from Avalon to the southern end of the Cardrona village.

Ratepayers committee member Kay Curtis was delighted to find less rubbish overall this year than

last year but was also disappointed to find people had left a 24 pack of empty beer bottles on the side of the road. Residents appreciated the help of ski field staff, who along with their vans and rubbish trailers, made the task less arduous.The group mostly picked up bottles, broken glass and plastic waste.

Pictured: Some of the clean up crew before the annual event.

QAC acquires 106ha beside Wanaka airport GLENDA TURNBULL journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz Queenstown Airport Corporation (QAC) has announced it has acquired 106ha of land adjacent to Wanaka Airport.

The parcel of land comprises two lots. One is located immediately to the north east of the airport and covers an area of 65ha. The second lot, with an area of 41ha, is located to the north west of the airport with frontage to the Wanaka /Luggate Highway.

As operational manager of Wanaka Airport, QAC identified the lots as being of strategic importance to the future growth and development of Wanaka Airport.

QAC chairman John Gilks said, “securing this land is critical to any plans for the future of Wanaka Airport and also would complement the services provided at Queenstown Airport under a dual airport policy.

Implementation of this strategy would ultimately benefit the wider Lakes District communities which QAC serves.”

KING HITS Corona 12 packs

A governance review is currently being undertaken by Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) with public consultation and submissions having closed. The QLDC received 78 submissions. A decision on its preferred governance option will be made after considering formal submissions and holding a public hearing, likely to be in January or February 2017.

“As the owner of the existing land and buildings at Wanaka Airport, QLDC is considering granting a long term lease of the existing airport to QAC. Given that this review has not yet been completed, QAC would have preferred these land acquisitions to have been deferred until the outcome of the review was known.

“However, the vendor placed the land on the open market and QAC became aware that there was other interest in it. As a result, the QAC Board decided to make the acquisition now in order to avoid a situation where private developers might acquire it for purposes other than future airport development,” John said.

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1 Ardmore Street, Wanaka | Ph 443 1466 Open seven days from 10am to 9pm PAGE 6

THURSDAY 15.12.16 - WEDNESDAY 21.12.16

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e d i u g t f i g s a m t s i Chr

Gift Vouchers for museum entry available for Christmas.

Our retail shop has a full range of gifts for the man in your life.

Phone 03 443 7010

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THURSDAY 15.12.16 - WEDNESDAY 21.12.16

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Musician spreads wings with his debut EP DANIELLE BUTLER newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz Robert Glen, whose face and sound you may know from the many gigs he performs around town, from vineyards to cafes to bars to weddings and functions, has taken the plunge and released his first solo EP. Scotlandborn Robert, pictured, who ventured to New Zealand three and a half years ago, has been playing solo for two and a half of those years but his EP Free to Fly, released on December 2, is the first time he’s written his own music.

“I’d never really done solo music back in Scotland, and after doing so much solo gigging in New Zealand I decided to record the EP in around July this year. Before that I would send my producer (Danny Fairly,

Mirrors Audio) all my ideas but only short little parts of sounds. I think I was probably starting to annoy him, so he said let’s book some studio time and just do it,” Robert said.

It took the musician around a month of full-time writing to complete the album, and he’s been pleased with the feedback so far.

“The studio deadline was scary but it really pushed me to get it done and it was an amazing feeling when it was finished.

I’ve had all good feedback so far, I think a few people have been PHOTO: ELLIOT STEVEN quite surprised because they didn’t expect that sound to come from me. A lot of people see me as more of a Blues man,” Robert said.

Robert has a busy summer of gigging ahead, playing around Wanaka, Queenstown and at Rhythm and Alps on Thursday December 29.

To listen to Free to Fly, visit robertglen.bandcamp.com/releases.

PHOTO: NIKKI HEATH

Local lakes monitored for summer DANIELLE BUTLER newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz Summer recreational monitoring of Lake Hawea and Lake Wanaka has begun and will continue until March 2017.

The Holiday Park area of Lake Hawea and township area of Lake Wanaka have been monitored weekly since December 1 in an annual programme conducted by the Otago Regional Council (ORC).

The two lakes are amongst 17 recreational sites throughout the region to be monitored, selected as areas where Otago people most like to paddle, swim and generally enjoy the water.

ORC director engineering, hazards, and science Dr Gavin Palmer said that the water is tested for

Escherichia coli (E. coli), bacteria that can cause illness, with the most common sources being rural run-off, sewage and stormwater.

Whilst noting that the water quality in Otago is generally very good, Dr Palmer said care needed to be taken when swimming after heavy rain.

“If the water looks murky, or there’s been a heavy rainfall event in the previous 24 hours, levels of enterococci and E.coli are likely to be higher, potentially affecting the suitability of the water for swimming,” he said.

The test results will be compared with national guidelines set by the Ministry for the Environment and the Ministry of Health, which apply a threetier ‘traffic light’ approach to bacteria counts.

Green indicates that swimming should be very safe, amber safe, and red a potential health risk.

Premium Lakefront Location Unobstructed spectacular lake views are the highlight of this 2 bedroom cottage, where nothing but reserve comes between your front gate and the lake for those refreshing summer dips. Located at the eastern end of Lakeview Terrace on an 885m2 section, you will enjoy plenty of space for tents and caravans for holiday time now, or plan away to build your dream home here. Spend your evenings relaxing on the deck and enjoy the different moods of the lake and light setting on the mountains beyond. Enjoyed by the current owners for 20 years now it's your time! Call today for more info.

Deadline Sale: Closes 4pm Thursday 26th January 2017 (unless sold prior)

PAGE 8

Jo Sedon 0274 45 45 90

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THURSDAY 15.12.16 - WEDNESDAY 21.12.16

THE WANAKA SUN

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SUN NEWS

Offensive place names changed, recorded GLENDA TURNBULL journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Topp Twins to celebrate 80th A&P Show STAFF REPORTER editor@thewanakasun.co.nz The Topp Twins will return to the Wanaka A&P Show to help celebrate the Show’s 80th anniversary on March 10-11, 2017.

Jools and Lynda Topp first performed at the event in 2010 and Wanaka A&P Show coordinator Jane Stalker said she is delighted they will be back to celebrate the important milestone next year.

“Not only are the Topp Twins fantastic, familyfriendly talent, they are true Kiwi icons and always up for a great time – a perfect fit for the Wanaka Show,” she said. “Jools and Lynda and their hilarious alter-egos will be in fine form and we are thrilled to be welcoming them back to Wanaka once again.”

The Topp Twins will be on the main stage enter-

taining show-goers in the morning and afternoon on both days of the event.

“The Wanaka Show is in a beautiful setting by the lake and there are lots of fabulous things that happen there – we’re very excited,” Lynda said.

“We’re bringing all the characters with us – Ken and Ken, and Camp Mother and Camp Leader, and we’ve got some new songs too. We’re also bringing our American cowboy friend to show him what a real A&P show is like.”

The two-day show is regarded as the South Island’s premier lifestyle, agricultural and pastoral event, with equestrian and livestock events, the Beef + Lamb NZ Golden Lamb Awards, sheep shearing and wood chopping demonstrations, a dedicated Kids Zone, and more than 400 trade stalls.

Pictured: Jools and Lynda Topp.

Grants for educational facilities STAFF REPORTER editor@thewanakasun.co.nz Aspiring Beginning Early Learning Centre was one of four education centres to receive a grant in Central Lakes Trust’s latest funding round for a playground upgrade. The local centre received $22,000 for its playscape project.

Central Otago REAP was another education provider supported by the CLT with a grant of $67,500 towards its Adult Literacy, STAR Gifted one day school and the Sticks ‘n Stones programme.

The five secondary schools in the Central Lakes Trust’s region, under the banner Central Otago Principals Association, collectively re-

ceived $80,000 to support the continued delivery of its learning support and referral programme.

“Since 2006 Central Lakes Trust has provided funding support for this programme which encompasses special needs students and at risk students,” CLT chief executive Paul Allison said.

“Schools highly value this funding support and continue to provide case studies to highlight the activities provided by this programme and to illustrate how they continuously adapt to meet current needs.”

Alpine Community Development Trust received a grant of $45,000 towards operational costs for 2017.

Central Lakes Trust has approved over $2.3m in grants so far this financial year.

Three place names in North Canterbury containing the word ‘nigger’ will be changed to reflect the offence caused by that word, Land Information Minister Louise Upston said.

Nigger Stream, near Arthur’s Pass, will now officially be named Pakio Stream after a native grass (carex secta) found in the area.

Niggerhead, which is above Lake Sumner, will be called Tawhai Hill after a species of native beech tree found in the South Island.

Nigger Hill, to the east of Arthur’s Pass, will be renamed Kanuka Hills after a species of native tea tree that grows in the area.

“These names reflect a time when attitudes towards this word were markedly different to what they are now. It is a word that is clearly offensive to most people today, so I am pleased to make this decision,” the minister said.

“This isn’t about rewriting history – it is and will remain a matter of public record that these three places used to carry different names.

However, in a society like ours that is multicultural and where most New Zealanders do not go out of their way to be offensive or exclude others, I do not believe this word has a place in our official names.”

She said at the moment there are no proposals with the New Zealand Geographic Board (NZGB) to change Niger Peak and Niger Stream in Central Otago. “For name changes to be considered by the NZGB, members of the public must make proposals for a change.”

Regarding Niger Street in Wanaka, Clark Hennessy, a spokesman for the minister said, “The Board does not have jurisdiction over roads and streets, this is the local council’s role.”

The new names will be listed in the Gazetteer, the official record of New Zealand place names, today (December 15).

Soar in drink driving rate STAFF REPORTER editor@thewanakasun.co.nz Fifteen people have been caught drink driving in Wanaka in the past six weeks, prompting Wanaka Police to call for people to drink in moderation and organise a ride home after nights out this holiday season.

Five people were processed for drink driving during the same time period last year.

Senior Constable Ian Henderson said in Crimeline this week that in

one case a vehicle was stopped in Lake Hawea which was being driven by an 11 year old.

“The front seat licensed passenger was intoxicated so he caused the young chap to drive him to the fish and chip shop and back home so he would not be caught. Quite silly really, putting both of them and other road users at danger.”

That male is facing a charge of ill treatment or neglect of a child.

Four local drink drivers processed over the weekend and will face a date in court.

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Wishing everyone a very safe and happy holiday season.

Thank you for your continued support and all the very best for 2017. From the team at the Wanaka Medical Centre.

FOR BOOKINGS CALL 03 443 5252 | 021 786 740 | marketing@thewanakasun.co.nz

THE WANAKA SUN

THURSDAY 15.12.16 - WEDNESDAY 21.12.16

WANAKA MEDICAL CENTRE | 443 0710 PAGE 9

Training with the individual in mind CALL US NOW

for an appointment 03 443 1711 info@physiowanaka.co.nz www.physiowanaka.co.nz

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Unit 1, 12 Frederick St, Wanaka Phone: 443 8111, qualitycurtainswanaka@gmail.com

FREE MEASURE & QUOTE Supply your own fabric - or we can supply it for you

The Fit Collective gym opened its doors in June this year at 5 Gordon Road. The coaches have created a warm, friendly and motivating atmosphere for people to come and train in.

Paul said, “One of the core objectives we have is to create programmes and group training with each individual person in mind, meeting their specific goals. Working collaboratively with physios and health professionals ensures that our clients are getting a holistic approach to their lifestyle and training and the success stories represent this.”

The space is fresh, functional and vibrant.

Andrew said, “Supporting local business is really important to us. Scott from Urban Fix built our custom designed exercise frame and produced a result that outshines some of the biggest players in the fitness industry. The support and service that we have received from Scott, Think Painting, Penberthy Insurance, CabineTREE has made our startup seamless.”

The Fit Collective is the only gym in Wanaka that offers the approved tax deductible Stress

Clean Lines, Cool Designs Outdoor dining with a difference.

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PAGE 10

PHOTO: PHOTOSBYLEIGH.NET

Management Exercise Programme.

Everyone is welcome to the Fit Collective’s free Christmas workout on December 24 at 9am and are asked to bring a donation to support LandSAR. Pictured: Coaches Andrew King, Sally Soper, Gwen Hendry and Paul Hodgson.

Personalised Small Group Training Personal Training Gym Floor Memberships MMA and Boxing Youth Sport Development

3 Frederick Street 03 443 6891 www.wanakastainless.co.nz facebook.com/quirkyoutdoorfurniturenz

a: Unit 2, 80 Ballantyne Road Wanaka a: Unit 2, 80 Ballantyne Road Wanaka

027 383 2642 | 5 Gordon Road www.thefitcollective.co.nz

Approved repairer for all the major insurance companies

HEADLIGHT

Automotive glass

replacement and repairs RESTORATION SPECIALISTS

FOR ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL NEEDS

Call us on (03) 443 1613 for more details

23a Gordon Road, Wanaka 03 4431260 E. bill.moore@aoteaelectric.co.nz

Or pop in to our workshop – 27 Gordon Road Wanaka slakespanel@xtra.co.nz • www.southernlakespanel.co.nz

a: Unit 2, 80 Ballantyne Road Wanaka

GOING HARD IN WANAKA ...since ages ago a: Unit 2, 80 Ballantyne Road Wanaka

EXPERIENCED LOCAL DOG GROOMER 0800 CONCRETE | 080026627383

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BE PART OF THE OFF BALLANTYNE ROAD PAGE Off Ballantyne Road Directory Page highlights leading businesses, creating a strong sales platform to promote the area.

This feature page will run on a fortnightly basis giving each business the opportunity to have their say in a free advertorial during the promotional period.

Book in for this fantastic marketing opportunity now.

For more information or to book in call 03 443 5252

THURSDAY 15.12.16 - WEDNESDAY 21.12.16

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Dressage champ off to South Island comp DANIELLE BUTLER newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

VIEWPOINT

Jessie Fraser and horse Johnnie are celebrating their victory at the Otago Southland Pony Club Dressage Championships last month.

Mount Aspiring College student Jessie, pictured with Johnnie, came top in the junior dressage championship and has now qualified to compete for the Otago Southland team at the South Island Dressage Championships in January.

Jessie will now take part in training sessions on December 28 and 29 in preparation for the South Island competition in Mosgiel in January.

“I’m quite confident. Hopefully I will have a good chance of placing there,” Jessie said.

Highlands Sprint Series opening race GLENDA TURNBULL journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz The first Highlands Sprint Series of the 2016/17 year kicked off at the start of December with 46 cars taking to the track.

The Highlands Sprint Series is in its second year and is a three-race series for the grassroots of motorsport.

Highlands general manager Mike Sentch said Highlands is as committed to grassroots racing as it is to higher profile events and the idea of creating a short race series open to competitors of all levels was the competitors’ idea.

“Many competitors who aren’t eligible to compete at our higher profile events like the Highlands 101 were keen to have a go at racing at Highlands and that is why we created the Highlands Sprint Series. It gives people the chance to experience the circuit, the atmosphere and racing without the pressure of a full-on, door handle-to-door handle competition,” Mike said “We had a great weekend of competitive, clean racing. All the guys had a fantastic time. They learned some racecraft and how to cope with other cars around them on the racetrack. We had some really impressive lap times and everyone came to the cafe afterwards for a drink and a chat.

It was great to see a real camaraderie amongst all

Sponsored by

Grebe Diary 10, December 11 2016 PHOTO: SUPPLIED

the drivers.”

“These events are very much about enjoyment and participation for competitors but people are very welcome to come along and watch if they want,” Mike said. “They might even like to get out on the track themselves in between races via one of the great Highlands on-track experiences like the Highlands Taxi or FASTLaps – a unique opportunity to be part of the action.”

The dates for the next Highlands Sprint Series are April 8 and 9, 2017 and April 29 and 30, 2017.

Ines crowned team champion Wanaka teenageer Ines Stephani and the New Zealand 14 and under tennis team were crowned the 2016 Australian Teams Champions at the December Showdown in Melbourne on Tuesday.

It was the first time in more than a decade the New Zealand team had won the national championship for that age group.

Ines won all of her singles and doubles games in the pool matches and got through to both

semi-finals. She lost the singles final in a third set tie-break, but beat Western Australia to win the doubles final.

Ines also made the semi-finals of the doubles at the Australian nationals the week before, after losing a tight three-set match to the fourth seed in the main draw singles. She then came second in the consolation beating several main draw seeds along the way.

Commercial For Sale 21 Brownston Street, Wanaka • • • • • •

Top floor Brownston House Fully leased with four tenancies Centrally located Ample public parking Lake and mountain views 531m2 $2,000,000 plus GST (if any)

Businesses For Sale

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Call our commercial team today Ray White Wanaka 03 443 8912 1 Helwick Street, Wanaka wanaka.nz@raywhite.com www.rwwanaka.com

Wanaka Real Estate Ltd (Licensed REAA (2008)

THE WANAKA SUN

www.aspiringmedical.co.nz Duncan Good

Anna Findlay

Harry Briggs

23 Cardrona Valley Road, Wanaka THURSDAY 15.12.16 - WEDNESDAY 21.12.16

I (Jack Sandford) have been helping John Darby with his grebe work. I knew absolutely nothing about grebes until Mrs Sandri took us to meet John in March. I thought they were cool because they are unique and they have a really colourful crest.

I was so interested in them that when John wanted to survey where they went in winter Mum and Dad helped me contact him to see if I could help. Since then I have got to experience so many cool things.

My favourite out of all the cool things was seeing two grebe eggs hatching last weekend. One had the egg shell on its head like a hat and it was still in its egg shell. The other one had a little hole and its beak was poking out. I was pretty surprised and a bit concerned we might have upset them but John said it was okay but we should sneak away quietly.

I have also been pecked by a grebe. I was checking underneath her for eggs. It hurt a wee bit but

John said I was privileged. It is a really unique thing to be pecked by a grebe! I only know two other people who have had this privilege - John and Archie.

I have also loved finding their feathers. Their feathers are amazing because they are incredibly soft and really cleverly made.

They have super soft down at the bottom of them which keeps them warm and dry. The feathers overlap and are waterproof so water never touches the skin of the grebes.

I also got to make a platform for the grebes to nest on and we put it in Minaret Bay. The grebes haven’t used it yet but we will keep checking it.

I feel really protective about grebes. They are a really cool bird and think it is great that John has spent so much time letting me help him and learn about them.

Jack Sandford, age 10.

Grebes.net.nz PAGE 11

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INLAND REVENUE are at Community Networks, Wednesday 14 Dec. If you need help with your Tax return, Family Tax credits, IRD number or Child support DO YOU need any tiling done? Stonework? An out- give Community Networks a call on 03 443 7799 to side BBQ or Pizza-oven built? I can do it NOW! 021 make an appointment for this free service.

1890036

EMPLOYMENT

PAGE 12

WANAKA'S LOCAL Mobile Device Repair

CALTEX

WANAKA PHARMACY is your local pharmacy.

We’re the big pharmacy at the top of Helwick Street open until 7pm every single day. Ph 443 8000 COMMUNITY NETWORKS Wanaka would like to thank the following local businesses for their generosity and community spirit in donating gifts for our many volunteers: George & Edi, Cardrona Distillery, Pembroke Patisserie, Patagonia Chocolates, and Wanaka Beerworks.

Upstairs Spencer House Mall Ph 021 404 524

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The Stonemasons Ltd

CONSULTANTS Thought about upgrading your original windows to double glazing?

• A warmer home in Winter, cooler in Summer.

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• Significantly reduces heat loss.

For an obligation free quote call Kris today 022 135 6997 Email: kris@doubleglazeit.co.nz www.doubleglazeit.co.nz

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CONCRETE

jimstonemason@xtra.co.nz 0276 994 269

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DINING

SUN CLASSIFIEDS

The Wanaka Sun are pleased to provide limited design work as a free Polished Concrete Specialists

courtesy service.

Floors – Worktops – Hearths – Precast Panels Please reply with your approval or any changes to your advert ASAP. Concrete prep - Glue and Paint removal We can provide 2 PROOFS ONLY so please be thorough when

checking your advert.

If we do not receive a response by 12 noon Tuesday on the week of Rob - 022 193 1080 publication your advert will be printed as shown. info@queenstownconcretegrinding.com www.queenstownconcretegrinding.com

advertisingproof

proof

TRADES AND SERVICES

SERVICES

DEVICE REPAIR

Please reply with your approval or any changes to your advert ASAP. We allow 2 PROOFS ONLY so please be thorough when checking your advert.

If we do not receive a response by 12 noon Tuesday on the week of publication your advert will be printed as shown below.

COBBLER

THE COBBLER

SOUTHERN SOLE THE COBBLER

TheShoe Cobbler is in fine form. Devoting time and New location Repairs, Possum Products, Trophies, Keys Street energy67toBrownston fix your shoes. We are open 7 days from (the mini building) 67 Brownston Street (the putt building) 10 am toPhone: 5putt pm . mini 67 brownston st, the mini putt 03 443 9999 Relocation specials Beside New World. Keys centre of the universe.

- Key cutting 20%cut, tags engraved, while u wait.

- Pet pet tag engraving OFF - Watch battery fittings Heel special $20 mention this add.

Open late on Fridays (until 7pm) (the mini putt building) 67 Brownston Street

Phone: 021 238 4506

SOUTHERN SOLE

DRONE PHOTOGRAPHY We are relocating... to 67 Brownston Street (the mini putt building) on Monday 4th November.

Thank you for your support over the last 4 years and we look forward to seeing you in our new shop.

Birds Eye Productions

0220 786 778

Drone Video & Photography NOT TO SCALE

©This advert has been created as a service of The Wanaka Sun. It cannot be reproduced without permission, ©Thisifadvert has been created as athis service of The Wanaka Sun. please It cannotcontact be reproduced without you would like to use material elsewhere the office onpermission, 03 443 5252 (a charge will apply). if you would like to use this material elsewhere please contact the office on 03 443 5252 (a charge will apply).

Paul Roy

Phone: 027 322 9593 | Email: paulroy41@gmail.com www.birdseyeproductions.org

vermin control

commercial & domestic safe & effective bait station installation

CALL JAE

03 443 1150 M: 027 4391 675 0800 225 552 THURSDAY 15.12.16 - WEDNESDAY 21.12.16

we’ll take care of it

THE WANAKA SUN

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MALE VOLUNTEERS Wanted for Visiting Service - Companionship for Older People project. Can you spare a bit of time to visit one our senior citizens, to have a chat or go for an outing once a week? For more information please call Community Networks 443 7799 or email 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.

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.

SUN TEAM WANAKA’S INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER

ISSUE 796

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: Ruth Blunt editor@thewanakasun.co.nz Journalists: Danielle Butler newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz Glenda Turnbull journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz Social media: Nikki Heath nikki@pembroke.co.nz Graphic design: D. Foster production@thewanakasun.co.nz Advertising: Leon Durbin 021 786 740 marketing@thewanakasun.co.nz Admin: Benn Ashford 021 956 740 admin@thewanakasun.co.nz Mail: PO Box 697, Wanaka

Deadlines: Display Advertising

4pm Friday prior to publication. marketing@thewanakasun.co.nz 021 786 740 Classified Advertising 5pm Monday prior Text: 0220 786 778 Subscriptions: $175 within NZ (including GST) per year.

Overseas rates on request. Remittances to PO Box 697, Wanaka, NZ

While every care is taken in the publication of advertisements, the publisher cannot be held responsible for errors or their subsequent effects. The right is reserved to alter, abbreviate, omit or reclassify advertisements for any reason. No portion of the content of the Wanaka Sun may be reproduced in whole or in part without the prior written consent of the publisher.

WWW.THEWANAKASUN.CO.NZ

SUN CLASSIFIEDS 0220 786 778

THE SCHOOL Holiday Club programme for summer is out now! Keep your kids entertained, engaged and active! OSCAR subsidies available. Check out the Community Networks Wanaka website for details and bookings:www. communitynetworks.co.nz/ school-holiday-club/

FOR SALE WANAKA PRIMARY School “Op Shop’ Closing down sale. Everything 1/2 price or less, make an offer. Last day 15th December. 12 - 4pm

NOTICES 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 Rosie Ford for information 021 189 6671 RAGS, RAGS, rags ... little ones, big ones, cotton ones and drop cloths, available from the Wanaka Salvation Army Family Store 443 5068

WANTED 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.

EMPLOYMENT Rubbish Collector required for peak season runs Dec to March.

Class 2 Drivers Licence and reasonable fitness required.

Up to 20 hours per week from Sunday to Weds Inclusive Please email wanakawasteltd@gmail.com for further information.

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.

SPORTS RESULTS Please send sports results to sports@thewanakasun.co.nz Southern Series Motocross Championship Bella Cornish - participation in the ‘intro have a go class”, Lochie Cornish - 5th 6-8yr 50cc MX, Josh Bonnar - 8th 8-11 year 85cc-150cc, Bert Waldron - 5th Intermediate, Brook Carr - 9th Intermediate, Tim White 10th intermediate , Rob Stevens - 26th Intermediate, Jason Hepburn 30th Intermediate, Blake McPhee - 6th MX1, Michael Patton - 12th MX1, Bryn Gilbert - 1st MX2, Jesse White -4th MX2, Brendon Cornish -1st Vets 41+, Shayle Thompson - 3rd Vets 41+, Glen Terry - 5th Vets 35-40yr.

Wanaka Progressive Bowls 9:12:16 Skips 1 T Tovey 2 G Cross 3 B Russell Thirds 1 S Morris 2 D Wayte 3 B Kane Leads 1 N Churchill 2 B Thorburn 3 N Matheson

NOTICES

COMMUNITY NETWORKS FOODBANK Did you know that the Foodbank Drive (held on Tuesday 20th December) helps stock our foodbank for the year?

Your local foodbank would appreciate: Pasta sauces Meats (we have a big freezer) Canned Fish Crackers, Biscuits & Muesli Bars Rice and Pasta Baking goods Toiletries Christmas foods for the Christmas hampers And please remember we appreciate cash donations as it allows us to buy the foods we need.

Donations can be dropped off anytime to our office at 73 Brownston St or in the marked bin at New World. Lets come together and lend a helping hand to our community.

EMPLOYMENT

HEALTHY DEALS THIS WEEK Phone: 03 443 8000 Top of Helwick Street, Wanaka

PERMANENT PHARMACY POSITION We’re looking to take on another full-time Pharmacy team member in the New Year.

Pharmacy Technician We have a position for a trained* Pharmacy Technician (*we may consider training a suitable applicant).

We are looking for someone trained and qualified to assist our pharmacists in the dispensing of medicines as well as sales work in our busy retail shop.

Please email your CV and a covering letter to:

Resource Management Planner, Central Otago Southern Land is a medium sized consultancy based in Wanaka with small sub offices in Auckland and Queenstown. We are seeking a senior Resource Management Planner well versed in the Queenstown Lakes District Plan.

We envisage the position to be based in Wanaka, but would consider Queenstown depending on the circumstances of the applicant.

Our workload is varied and will offer considerable experience to the successful applicant.

Survey Manager/ PA - Wanaka Due to continued steady growth we are seeking candidates for a management role within the company starting January 2017.

This position is permanent part time 25 hours, five days a week.

CV’s and cover letters should be e-mailed or posted to contact@southernland.co.nz or PO Box 713 Wanaka 9343.

We place high value on attention to detail, and a hand written cover letter would be well received.

Applications for both positions close 16 December 2016

Nikki Heath nikki@pembroke.co.nz or call Nikki 03 4435252 (ext 0) for more details.

Applications close 8 January 2017.

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THE WANAKA SUN

THURSDAY 15.12.16 - WEDNESDAY 21.12.16

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SUN NEWS

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NOW HIRING SUMMER STAFF - SEE SITUATIONS VACANT PAGE 14

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Local lady is Motorcross Championship GLENDA TURNBULL journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz Wanaka local Jody Tuffs made history by taking out the inaugural ladies Southern Series Motocross Championship last Saturday, December 10.

The Southern Series has been going for 38 years and this year was the first time a ladies class was introduced. Ten competitors entered from around the South Island.

“Normally the ladies would have to race with the 52 intermediate boys and it is pretty intimidating.

We are hoping by creating this class it will encourage more girls to enter next year and have a much stronger class,” Jody said.

Jody has only been racing for just over a year and has been competing against girls who have been racing most of their life.

Jody had her fair share of incidents in the series. In the first round in Poolburn, she crashed on a jump in the first race.

“I was leading. When I crashed I snapped my neck brace clean in half, thank goodness it was the brace and not my neck, it was a big crash so I didn't do the last two races that day so had to fight back to get on top in points,” Jody said.

The series is contested in six rounds from September through to December,with each South Island club hosting a round. Teams from Central Otago, Invercargill, Balclutha, Timaru, Gore and Mosgiel competed. This year there were 116 junior riders and 201 senior riders.

Second place went to Hannah Hogg and third place went to Zoe Mcewing, both from Timaru.

Pictured: Jody Tuffs with her bike and trophy.

Dew Tour fourth for Jossi STAFF REPORTER sports@thewanakasun.co.nz Wanaka freeskier Jossi Wells finished fourth overall at the Dew Tour in Breckenridge, USA on Saturday.

The two-day slopestyle event featured the jump and jib sections split into two competitions with separate scoring which were then added to determine an overall slopestyle winner.

Jossi finished in 11th place in day one’s jump section.

“Jump day I took it kind of cruisey and just wanted to land on my feet.

Today (Saturday) I went out guns blazing and managed to jump from 11th to fourth with the second highest score for the rails,” Jossi said.

Jossi’s first run on day two’s jib section comprised switch right 270 on,

THURSDAY 15.12.16 - WEDNESDAY 21.12.16

270 off, wallride redirect stall, right 270 on. Left 270 on, 270 out, switch 450 on, 270 out. He added a switch 6 at the bottom of his second run, but couldn’t improve on his score. He held on to the top spot until run three when Alex Beaulieu-Marchand’s technical run scored 87.00 bumping Jossi down to second in the jib scores and off the overall podium.

“It was a bummer to miss the podium but I’m feeling great on my skis and excited to start the season off,” Jossi said.

Swedish skier Henrik Harlaut secured his first Dew Tour slopestyle podium in four years, with a total score of 162.65. Norwegian pro Oystein Braten, with a final total of 158.32, was placed second and third place went to Alex BeaulieuMarchand of Canada, with 153.99.

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SUN NEWS

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

MAC rowers first regatta DANIELLE BUTLER newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz Mount Aspiring College’s rowers returned from their first regatta of the year with successful results.

A squad of 19 under-16’s and novice team, pictured, travelled to Clyde to take part in the Dunstan Regatta on Lake Dunstan from Saturday December 3 to Sunday December 4.

Sam Pearce put in what coach Amanda Inkster described as “an outstanding performance” to easily take victory in the boys under-16 singles and earn third place in the men’s club event.

Wanaka also dominated the girls singles with first-time single sculler 14-year-old Peta McKay coming first ahead of 15-year-old sculler Greer Porter.

Over in the B final Hannah Humphreys, Emma

Smith and Jordan Fox took the top three spots, while Estelle Norman raced to fifth in what was her third outing in a single scull.

All six of the under-16’s girls made the A final in the double sculls, finishing in second, sixth and seventh, while placing third in the quad sculls.

Amanda said that the novice team had also shown great promise in their first regatta.

“The girls had a very eventful novice doubles event with high gusty winds in the middle of the day. With a variety of crews colliding, restarts and crews enjoying some very interesting steering and some capsizing it really was a case of survival of the fittest. Thankfully all crews finished safely and they can honestly say that they are now ready to face anything,” she said.

Last weekend’s Otago Championships (December 10-11) told a different story, with high winds cancelling races after just two hours on the water.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Mountain carts at hit at Lismore Park GLENDA TURNBULL journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz Cardrona brought its unique mountain carts from the mountain to central Wanaka last Sunday December 11 for a free mountain carting experience in Lismore Park. More than 80 locals and visitors came to give New Zealand’s only mountain carts a try.

The Cardrona crew hand-mowed a track through the park that got faster as the day went.

People aged two to 72 enjoyed the carts, many of the visitors coming from a day of pre-Christmas activi-

ties. The carts were a big hit with the younger audience in particular.

Five-year-old Scout from Hawea said, “That was heaps of fun. We went to Santa’s Grotto, the Dinosaur Park and then we got to do this.”

The event was a precursor to Cardrona’s summer operations of lift-accessed mountain biking, mountain carting, hiking/walking, Alpine by Night and tubing. The summer season opens on December 27 and runs until April 2.

“We are stoked that so many people got to give mountain carting a go today,” Cardrona’s sport manager Spy Dunbar said.

Students represent at national level DANIELLE BUTLER newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz Four students have rounded off the year by being chosen to represent the country in their respective sports.

Mount Aspiring College students Ethan Baxter-McAsey, Blake Hartley and Kate Richards have been selected

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Jumping to top spots DANIELLE BUTLER newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz Equestrian representatives for Mount Aspiring College took several top spots at the Otago Southland Secondary Schools Showjumping Championships last weekend.

The championships, which took place in Gore on

THE WANAKA SUN

Sunday December 11, were attended by students Carter Hewson, Molly Todd, Ava Plimmer, Danielle Molloy, Niamh Schmack, Monty Hewson and Jack Willson, pictured.

Carter was placed first, second and third while Jack was placed first and second and Ava was placed third in their respective competitions. The team placed fifth overall.

THURSDAY 15.12.16 - WEDNESDAY 21.12.16

for the New Zealand Under 16 team to compete at the International Ski Federation youth races in Europe and North America early next year.

Meanwhile, Meg Harraway was selected for the New Zealand Under 17 team to compete at the Australia vs New Zealand waterskiing championships in Australia in March.

2 Brownston Street, Wanaka Phone (03) 443 6641

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THE WANAKA SUN