Wanaka Sun | 01 - 07 October 2020 | Edition 994 by Wanaka Sun

Gilbert Van Reenen

INSIDE THIS WEEK Views: Page 13 Jobs: Page 15 Sport: Page 16

Searching for the stars.

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Bee scholar Showing how its done.

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The best of provincial rugby comes to town

Otago Ranfurly Shield players James Lentjes (left) and Sam Gilbert with young fans Hamish Jamieson (left) and Charlie Jamieson.

Young rugby fans pose with the Ranfurly Shield.

Rugby headquarters last night. Otago won the Ranfurly Shield on Sunday editor@thewanakasun.co.nz after it beat Taranaki 30-19, having led 22-5 at the ānaka fans were out in force to get a break. Otago had expected to struggle against a glimpse of the Ranfurly Shield, the best Taranaki side which had beaten Canterbury last of provincial rugby, at the Upper Clutha week to win the Shield.

Pat Deavoll

But Otago dominated the game at Inglewood. It scored three tries in the first half with the breeze behind it, and when Josh Ioane went over to score a try just before the end of the third quarter of the game, Otago was well ahead. Taranaki tried to fight back

PHOTO: Pat Deavoll

but made too many errors and struggled on the heavy ground. Otago's first defence will be against Hawke's Bay next Sunday at Forsyth Barr Stadium. This is only the second time Otago has won the Shield in 63 years.

Mount Iron under threat by developers Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

A Rob Roy Lane residents’ group is encouraging other Wānaka locals to oppose a proposed development going ahead on Mt Iron. The proposed Allenby Farms development would see additional house sites established on the slopes of Mt Iron overlooking Wānaka.

The resource consent application for a six-lot residential development on the western flanks of Mt Iron was publicly notified earlier this month. Submissions close on October 8, 2020. The spokesperson for the resident’s group, Tony Marsh, said it strongly opposed any development on Mt Iron. “This area of land was confirmed as part of the Mt Iron Outstanding Natural Feature (ONF)

by the Environment Court in 2019, despite the land being zoned suitable for residential development. The anomalous zoning is a matter the Council are currently addressing,” Marsh said. The Resource Management Act identifies the protection of outstanding natural features and landscapes from inappropriate subdivision, use, and development as

matters of national importance. The group claims development on the site would be “grossly inappropriate.” Marsh said that Allenby Farms had identified this land as visually sensitive and suitable for protection from development in submissions made to the Proposed District Plan in 2015 and again in 2017. Continued on page 3

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Wai Wānaka crew: a job well done Future leaders meet for

UN Youth Summit Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

More than 50 students from Mt Aspiring College (MAC), Wakatipu High School and Dunstan High School, came together in Wānaka last week to attend a Model United Nations (UN) Youth Summit. The event was organised by WAO in collaboration with UN Youth New Zealand and presented an opportunity for high school students to spend one day together to research and discuss a global issue and take action in support of the United Nations and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The day-long workshop run by UN Youth WAI Wānaka is working with community groups and landowners throughout the whole Upper Clutha catchment Otago Council student volunteers aimed to for this project. The work includes planting, as well as plant maintenance and weed control. inspire New Zealand’s future leaders to engage in constructive, solution-orientated debate, being considerate of the full range of community and global challenges. During the session, more than 50 Year 9-13 students from MAC, Wakatipu High School, Cromwell College, Dunstan High School, Otago Boys High School and St. Hildas joined together to discuss the question of decriminalisation of drugs. The topic was selected by the youth volunteers from MAC for its relevance to the upcoming referendum. Small teams of students took on the position of 28 countries on the issue, and intense debate on the resolution followed. MAC student Muireann Green thought the topic was well chosen. “With the upcoming vote here in New Zealand, I have been talking about the PHOTOS: Wai Wānaka decimalisation of drugs at home and school. This Thirteen keen-beans plant natives on the Gladstone Track, Hawea, as part of the government's Jobs for Nature initiative. workshop was a good opportunity to learn about the positions of other countries and hear a range required,” she said. Pat Deavoll “We are planting eco-sourced natives that have of different global perspectives and experiences.” editor@thewanakasun.co.nz Year 13 student Ava Erikson of MAC said the been selected for a specific site, and our partners day was a fun and engaging workshop for high Wai Wānaka has recruited a team of 13 under are responsible for the maintenance of the plants.” The Guardians of Lake Hawea would monitor the government's $1.3 billion Jobs for Native initiative scheme, and they are off to a good start. the area post-planting. When the Wānaka Sun caught up with Kane, With over 1000 natives planted around the Gladstone Track near Hāwea, the team has the team was working on the Glendhu Bay track. Pat Deavoll The current programme only lasts for eight weeks, completed its first week on the job. editor@thewanakasun.co.nz The team was recruited to work on the riparian but it was anticipated there would be additional restoration Million Metres project, supported by funding for further environmental work. Queenstown Airport Corporation (QAC) Announced in May this year, Jobs for Nature and the Queenstown Lakes District Council the Sustainable Business Network, which aimed to clear and replant a million metres of native was a four-year COVID-19 recovery package (QLDC) are respondents in a judicial review aimed at providing environmental funding brought by the Wānaka Stakeholders Group bush by 2026. Wai Wānaka project manager Prue Kane said for 11,000 jobs. These would support projects (WSG), which opposes development of the they received an impressive array of applicants including improving freshwater sources by Wānaka Airport for jet services. WSG wants the for work on the project from locals of all ages and fencing waterways and riparian management, 100-year lease provided by the Council to QAC backgrounds. Most of the advertising was done improving biosecurity with weed and pest to be abandoned. control and enhancing biodiversity on public and through the Messenger. The case concluded last Friday and Justice She said they were looking for people who had private lands by planting native species. Gerard van Bohemen was expected to make a WAI Wānaka was the second group to receive decision in the coming weeks. been affected by COVID, were committed to the area and were passionate about the environment. funding under this stream to be up and running The “current thinking” of the QAC was that no They also needed to be up to the physical work in New Zealand. decision had been made to establish a commercial jet service at Wānaka Airport. That point was reaffirmed in submissions to Justice van Bohemen in the High Court at Queenstown by QAC lawyer Chris Curran. Curran said the evidence of QAC chief examiner Colin Keel was that the corporation had no definite plans to develop Wānaka Airport let alone made any decisions to develop a plan when the lease was signed in March 2018. "The introduction of scheduled flights, including code C aircraft [e.g. Boeing 737, Airbus Elrick & Co provide a full range of surveying, A-320], was an option that we were interested in planning and civil engineering services. exploring,” Curran said. "However, we did not know whether that was a viable option, technically or financially." The WSG was urging people in the Upper Clutha not to get complacent whilst waiting for the Judge’s decision. The Group said that the For enquiries, contact Kerry information made public during the hearing at your local Wanaka office: P: 021 427 744 should be “ringing alarm bells”. E: kerry@elrick.co.nz When Keel spoke to Wānaka stakeholders in April 2019, he said that “Wānaka Airport

PHOTO: WAO

Carly Green: The day was a great opportunity to showcase how the UN resolution process was run, but it also highlighted the importance of getting youth engaged in the debate.

school students to explore the most pressing affairs for New Zealand and the international community. “Understanding how global issues are debated and ultimately addressed in the United Nations forum is really important for us as future leaders.” Carly Green from WAO said the day was a great opportunity to showcase how the UN resolution process was run, but it also highlighted the importance of getting youth engaged in the debate. “Events such as these, which are for youth and run by youth, are what WAO is all about. We want our youth to have a voice in decision making, and by facilitating the empowerment of our youth, we hope to enhance their skills to engage and influence their future.” WAO aimed to support the event annually, building local youth’s experience and ultimately provide the opportunity for more students from Otago to participate in the National UN Youth Summit held in Wellington.

WSG Judicial review concludes

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could develop as a regional airport capable of supporting scheduled domestic services using turbo-prop and narrow-body jet aircraft". Curran said the idea had persisted through the five days of the hearing. Most of his written submissions focused on the relationship between QAC and its majority owner, the Council. Curran pointed out the "harm" to the QAC if the lease was scrapped, referring to time spent negotiating leases, progressing the airport’s master plan and engaging with the community. WSG Chair, Michael Ross, said that he had already had feedback from some who were present at the hearing who were “horrified at what was uncovered last week.” "Keel’s evidence is that these investments of company time and money would be wasted if the lease were now set aside," Curran said. Despite QLDC and QAC both pleading that “no decision has been made” to build a jet airport at Wānaka Airport”, it was revealed in the hearing that runway plans had been drawn up, millions budgeted by Council to move parts of Project Pure away from the proposed runway in the coming months, and the Mayor and CEO had also written to QAC giving them “confidence to carry on.” The letter confirmed that QLDC “believed that the Board was skilled and capable of making decisions under the guidance of the Statement of Intent ( SOI) ” and “that the only area where the Council would expect to be involved was if the company proposed expanding its operation beyond aeronautical services or where it might seek to act beyond the boundaries of the Southern Region”. Continued on page 3

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Mount Iron under threat by developers

PHOTO: WSG

Despite QLDC and QAC both pleading that “no decision has been made” to build a jet airport at Wānaka Airport”, it was revealed in the hearing that runway plans had been drawn up, millions budgeted by Council to move parts of Project Pure away from the proposed runway in the coming months, and the Mayor and CEO had also written to QAC giving them “confidence to carry on.”

WSG Judicial review concludes Continued from page 2 Ross said that this meant that if it was business as usual and as indicated in the SOI then “QLDC was saying they should just get on with it.” “The runway plans, budget allocation and letters to QAC, along with other reports and meetings kept confidential for years, indicate that Council is paving the way for jets in Wānaka, which is exactly what QAC wants,” he said. And all of this without adequately involving the community. Ross said that one of the biggest revelations was the detail of the Strategic Alliance Agreement between Auckland and Queenstown airport companies. “Despite Auckland being a minority shareholder, there is an agreement in place requiring QAC to work with Auckland to set the annual objectives for QAC, including revenue targets. QAC asked the Judge to make orders preventing this agreement being reported on, but the Judge refused, and most of it was discussed openly in court last week.” He said that targets already agreed with Auckland Airport strongly indicated that QAC would need to get jet operations underway at Wānaka Airport by 2025. During the judicial review, the court also heard that QLDC had withheld crucial information about the plans for Wānaka Airport not just from ratepayers, but also from Councillors. WSG presented evidence from former councillors who had been asked to make decisions about Wānaka Airport but had not seen the Strategic Alliance Agreement with Auckland Airport. It was noted that despite there being thousands of pages of evidence - most of it provided by WSG - there was no evidence from the Mayor, any Councillors or any director of QAC - all people who had been very closely involved in making key decisions along the way, including the all-important 100 year lease. WSG member and Wānaka resident Terry Hetherington sat through the entire hearing and said that he was stunned by the lack of evidence from Council. “There was no evidence given at all about the lease negotiations, despite Jim Boult and Wānaka’s Calum McLeod being amongst the four

PHOTO: Supplied

Justice Gerard van Bohemen is expected to make a decision in the coming weeks.

men delegated to do this for the Council. I’m also quite surprised that only one person from QLDC or QAC came to observe the case during the entire week - that was Councillor Niki Gladding who was there every day.” Ross said that WSG was feeling confident about the case and that the team felt that the Judge understood WSG’s concerns. In the meantime, Ross said that WSG was asking members to “keep alert to airport issues” and also “focus on the big issues” around the airport debate. “At its heart, our concerns about Wānaka Airport come back to issues such as infrastructure, the environment, quality tourism, and Council’s unwavering growth mantra. These issues affect not just the airport, but our entire district, and we need a proper, community-wide discussion about them.” Ross said that it was “no longer acceptable” for Council to bulldoze its plans through without “full, frank and balanced dialogue with the community it serves.” WSG deputy chair, Mark Sinclair, said he was pleased the Group had got its day in court. “We’ve been frustrated for many, many months at the lack of transparency and how the council and the airport have blocked our requests for information at almost every step,” he said. “It was good to be in court because we’re in front of a judge. The Judge is able to look at all the facts and the law and decide whether what the court and the airport company have done is lawful or done in the right way. “That’s all we want. We want the community to be heard, and we want some resolution of some of the issues we are very concerned about.”

PHOTO: Tony Marsh

The proposed development would involve earthworks and removal of vegetation up to 30 metres above the existing houses on the side of Mt Iron.

Continued from page 1 “The only thing that has changed since then is the classification of the land as part of the Mt Iron ONF by the Environment Court,” Marsh said. Marsh added that the proposed development would involve earthworks and removal of vegetation up to 30 metres above the existing houses on the side of Mt Iron. “This will have obvious negative impacts on the view of Mt Iron ONF and on the natural environment. Mt Iron provides a vantage point from which locals and visitors alike enjoy the views of Wānaka, the lake, and the surrounding countryside. The view to Mt Iron which has been largely unchanged for the last 10 – 15 years will be irrevocably altered.” “We imagine several people in the Wānaka community will have been unaware of the proposed development and may want to be heard on the impact it will have on this iconic landmark,” Marsh said. The planned development can be found on Tony Marsh: This will have obvious negative QLDC e-docs, resource consent RM191242. The impacts on the view of Mt Iron ONF and the natural process for making a submission can be found environment. Mt Iron provides a vantage point from here: www.qldc.govt.nz/services/resource- which locals and visitors alike enjoy the views of consents/application-forms-and-fees#other Wānaka, the lake, and the surrounding countryside. forms and by completing Form 13: “Making a our concern at the further intrusion into the Mt submission on a Resource Consent”. Iron ONF to take the opportunity to make a “We urge anyone in the community who shares submission,” Marsh said.

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Gilbert Van Reenen: Searching for the stars Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

The Three Lakes Cultural Trust has announced the 41 successful recipients of its RenewArt grants. They will now receive funding for their creative works to be displayed or performed at free community arts celebrations in Queenstown and Wānaka next month. Fourteen of the lucky artists were from Wānaka, and one of these was photographer Gilbert Van Reenen. When the Wānaka Sun spoke to Van Reenen he was about to embark on a journey to Dunedin in his electric car, a late model Nissan. It's a wonderful thing, he said, and there are plenty of recharging ports around the countryside these days So what did you have to do to win a place in the upcoming exhibition? I had to put in a proposal with a 'renewal' theme- but this could be my interpretation. You had to forward a proposal of what you wanted to do and how it was going to evolve. What was the background behind RenewArt? We had just come out of lockdown and the artists, particularly in Queenstown, had got a real hammering. Everything dried up for them. The Central Lakes Trust approached a lot of funders to get money for this project to give the whole thing a kick start. Most of the funding has gone to performing arts which is pretty impressive- it will be pretty eclectic. What was the inspiration behind your project? I have got really into celestial photography for the last couple of years, so I wanted to base my project on this. I have had an astronomer as a mentor and have

PHOTOS: Gilbert Van Reenen

Gilbert Van Reenen. Van Reenen's exhibit is a photographic triptych of the night sky, two metres tall on an aluminium composite.

been able to lock my camera onto his telescope, and his telescope becomes the lense.. I wanted to produce something that related to the Central Otago area or specifically Wānaka under the night sky and wanted to draw people's attention to the fact there is not much between the stars and us. And what is between us is vulnerable to climate change, and we need to draw attention to it. We had a real opportunity straight after COVID to see a clear night sky. The minute we went to level 2, all those contractors were back on the road, and it was all over in a second.

We can't get back to where we were because sustainable growth is an oxymoron- it's just not possible. The only way we can curtail carbon emissions is to forget about that notion of growth and measure prosperity by something other than GDP. It's been lost in the night sky, but for me, my project is one way of drawing attention to it. It's my interpretation of it and a way of getting people to think about it. Van Reenen's work is a photographic triptych two metres tall on an aluminium composite. The other’s from the Upper Clutha who received grants were: • Abby Jago (Wānaka Youth) – Watercolour • Andy Woods (Wānaka) – Photography

• Cholena Perry (Wānaka) – Mixed Media • Diana Hickey (Hāwea) – Light Installation • Gilbert Van Reenen (Wānaka) – Photography • Robyn Bardas (Hāwea) Photography/ Paint • Ruby Burke (Wānaka) – Paint • Shannon Courtenay (Cardrona) – Ceramics • Whitney Oliver (Wānaka) Film • Archie Orbell (Wānaka Youth) – Music • Gilly Pugh (Wānaka) – Multimedia • Sousa Jefferson (Wānaka)- Dance • Wānaka Fire & Flow Tribe (Wānaka) – Fire Dance • Melanie Craig (Wānaka) – Suzuki Violin/ Music

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You could say 2020 has been a tough year… Bring on 2021. Building Resilience is key to getting through. Take some time out and join us on nigel latta’s Resilience Tour through central lakes. Proudly brought to you by central lakes Trust - 20 years supporting our community. KOHA

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QLDC ‘Shovel Ready’ projects miss out

PHOTO: Wānaka Sun

Bullock Creek: An interesting finding was that different sites along Bullock Creek had better water quality levels than others.

Our streams: not as clean as we'd like Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

Our streams aren't as pristine as we think they are after Wildlands Consultants discovered high levels of E. coli, excess sediment and water quality issues in a survey into three Wānaka waterways. The Upper Clutha Lakes Trust and the Otago Fish & Game Council commissioned Wildlands Consultants to assess the effects of stormwater runoff in Bullock Creek, Stoney Creek and the Water Race Drain. The survey focused on sediment quantity and quality and its effect on plant and animal life. Ecologist Melanie Vermeulen sampled 20 sites across the three waterways over four days in September last year. In Bullock Creek, she discovered that sediment had the most significant impact on fish life in the stream.

An interesting finding was that different sites along Bullock Creek had better water quality levels than others, Vermeulen said. "Bullock Creek is a community stream and aesthetically pleasing and so I think people assume the water quality is very good. "The Touchstone Citizen Science Project had sampled water at the top of Bullock Creek and also at the bottom but the study that I did looked at several sites in between and it showed how variable the sites are along the whole length of Bullock Creek." Vermeulen found sediment where there had been breaches in the past from the nearby Meadowstone subdivision into Bullock Creek. Vermeulen's report recommended, "it will be important to focus on the improvement of sediment management during future subdivision developments". The report was presented to stakeholders in Wānaka last week.

Milk tankers given the heave-ho Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

The large milk tankers parked on the outskirts of Hāwea have been given the short-sharp-shift after Hawea Community Association member Robert White raised concerns. Up to five truck and trailer units had been parking on Domain Road and Noema Tce over the last fortnight. The trucks were there throughout the day, with frequent changeovers, but mostly in the mornings, White told the ODT. He believed the milk tankers were coming from the Devon Dairy farms in Hawea Flat and were parked up until long-haul drivers arrived to drive them up to Westland Milk Products in Hokitika. White said the Capell Ave and Domain Rd intersection was not designed to take trucks that size and the trucks were frequently parked near a school bus shelter, next to a bike park, and blocked pedestrian access to the lakefront from Domain Rd. He said that he had rung the NZ Transport Agency and there are no approvals for these

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high productivity motor vehicles [HPMV] trucks to be operating on these roads. The milk tankers were also having a significant effect on Gladstone Rd when going from Devon Dairy farms to Hawea. "Some of these trucks are up to 60 tonnes which is 16 tonnes over what a normal truck is allowed, and this road is not even designed for regular trucks," White said to the ODT. White had also contacted the Queenstown Lakes District Council about the trucks. QLDC spokesperson Jack Barlow said truck and trailers over 44 tonnes required permits to use Gladstone and Domain Rds. Parking off a roadway was not allowed in the Queenstown Lakes district. "After being made aware of the issue [in Hawea], the council enforcement officers contacted the owners of the tankers and notified them of the terms of the bylaw. This issue has subsequently been resolved," Barlow said. Neither the company that owned the trucks,Dynes Transport in Dunedin, nor Devon Dairy farms returned the Wānaka Sun's calls.

PHOTO: QLDC

Mayor Jim Boult acknowledged that this was disappointing news but despite this was quick to reflect on the successful applications.

Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) has been advised that it’s remaining three applications to the Government’s ‘Shovel Ready’ projects fund have been unsuccessful. The competition was strong, with a shortlist of 802 proposals. The remaining applications that had been unsuccessful were the latter stages of the Wānaka Lakefront Development, Cardrona Wastewater Pipeline Project and Wastewater Treatment Scheme, and upgrades and new sport, cultural and recreational facilities at the Queenstown Events Centre. Mayor Jim Boult acknowledged that this was disappointing news but despite this was quick to reflect on the successful applications as a benefit for locals, and the Government’s confidence in Queenstown’s role in the long-term economy. “In June, the Prime Minister made the announcement on Queenstown’s lakefront that we had been awarded $85M in funding for stage one of the Queenstown arterial project and the Queenstown CBD street upgrades. This was obviously incredibly exciting news, especially noting that we were the first territorial authority to have shovel ready funding announced and the only territorial authority to have a shovel ready project listed in the fast-track consenting bill. “We had hoped for further good news, but the scale of interest in this initiative demonstrates how important it is for the Government to keep

investing in our nation’s economy,” said Boult. “Ultimately, the Council is still committed to delivering these community assets and will continue to pursue any suitable funding opportunities to assist in doing so,” added Boult. When asked to respond on the future of the Wānaka Lakefront Development and the Cardrona Wastewater Pipeline Project and Wastewater Treatment scheme, QLDC said: Construction on the Cardrona Valley Wastewater Treatment Plant has already begun and is scheduled to commence operations in June 2021, with testing through to November 2021. Construction for the Cardrona Valley inbound pipeline and pump station is scheduled to commence in November 2020 and be operational by May 2021. These will continue to be funded by QLDC and repaid through growth with development contributions. The Wānaka Lakefront Development Plan is proposed to be funded through rates, third party funding and Active Transport funding. Finance Minister Grant Robertson said they received 1924 submissions for the shovelready fund. “A shortlist of 802 projects was presented to ministers. The ministers and cabinet then considered those projects and agreed to fund, in principle, around 150 of them,’’ he said. “In doing so, the Government gave priority to those that could be under way within 12 months, were of a minimum scale with material employment benefits and which provided national or regional public benefit.

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‘Déjà vu’ for Wānaka windsurfers

PHOTO: Supplied

Windsurfers were left stumped two weeks ago when a Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) bollard cut off access to the ‘windsurf beach’ in the outlet area of Lake Wānaka.

Joanna Perry

newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

Windsurfers were left stumped two weeks ago when a Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) bollard cut off access to the ‘windsurf beach’ in the outlet area of Lake Wānaka. Recognised by the New Zealand Windsurfing Association as the best place to windsurf in the area, the QLDC reserve is accessible via a 400m access track from the end of Penrith Park Drive. Wānaka Windsurfing group member Mike Botting said the beach had been popular with gear-laden windsurfers for over 35 years due to its “good wind, access, rigging and launching area,” but issues had occurred since 2006 when Council started upgrading the old access tracks around the lake to walking tracks. “The Council intention was to shut all vehicles out of the area, but after a series of public consultations in 2006/2007 the access track was upgraded and Council agreed to keep it open for windsurfers and vehicles,” said Botting.

Apollo 139

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Signage was installed to warn walkers and bikers of vehicles, and vice versa, who shared the track for 200m. But issues continued to occur in 2013, 2017 and 2019 - when a request to QLDC to repair flood damage on the track culminated in the installation of the bollard and barriers on Friday, September 18, 2020. On Tuesday, representatives of the Wānaka Windsurfing group met with the QLDC parks team to discuss the issues around safety and access. QLDC media and channels advisor Jack Barlow said it was agreed that the windsurfing club would have key access to the area by vehicle “on a three month trial basis.” Botting said that “a positive outcome” was likely for “windsurfers, walkers and bikers to continue to enjoy what is a special part of the lakeside” now that QLDC understood why the outlet spot was important for windsurfers. “Given that windsurfers only use this area during strong winds, when there are lower number of track users, there is much less chance for conflict to occur with a key system,” he said.

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MAC acting principal Dean Sheppard extended his congratulations to the winners (Cece Gardner, Luca Georgalli, Holly Gibson, Laura Neale, Isobel Smith, Jaimee Vink, Olly Thomas, Ollie Blyth, Kiera Gray and Siena Shotwell), calling the film a “sensational effort.”

MAC filmmakers win national award Joanna Perry

newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

A group of Mount Aspiring College (MAC) students have won first place in the national Showquest on Screen competition with their film ‘Nga Mea Iti’. Showquest is an annual stage show competition for school pupils, but due to Covid-19 was converted to Showquest on Screen this year, giving pupils an opportunity to create a sevenminute self-filmed screen video. Siena Shotwell, who directed the film alongside Kiera Gray, said they discussed the idea of making a film during lockdown, which started growing once they returned to school - although they had no intention to enter it into a competition. “We wanted to highlight the things that people appreciated when they were in lockdown,” she said. “The stillness, the calm, the environment, the quiet, the connection with other people.”

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Shotwell gathered verbatim from students and the Wānaka community about what they had appreciated most over lockdown, and wrote the spoken word piece that forms the basis of the film, the title of which means ‘the little things.’ Also winning awards for use of lighting and live sound ‘Nga Mea Iti’ was filmed in the students’ favourite locations around Wānaka, including Bremner Bay and Sticky Forest. Shotwell said it was “pretty exciting” to have won, with the prize including film equipment and the opportunity for both directors to attend a filmmaking workshop. “We weren’t planning on submitting the video originally, so we are pretty proud to have got the recognition for everyone involved,” she said. MAC acting principal Dean Sheppard extended his congratulations to the winners (Cece Gardner, Luca Georgalli, Holly Gibson, Laura Neale, Isobel Smith, Jaimee Vink, Olly Thomas, Ollie Blyth, Kiera Gray and Siena Shotwell), calling the film a “sensational effort.”

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Level one, but watch your back

PHOTO: ORC

The Otago Regional Council (ORC) put $200,000 aside in this year’s budget to support catchment groups, and convened a Catchment Support Advisory Group.

ORC supporting catchment groups Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

Catchment group leaders in Otago are establishing an umbrella organisation to both support existing catchment groups and help new ones get off the ground. The initiative will provide organisational support for catchment groups and volunteers, help groups secure funding, provide administration and communication support, and facilitate access to experts, information and technology. Over time, it will also look to establish longterm funding pipelines to support changing needs, and act as a conduit between government, regional authorities, and local stakeholders. The Otago Regional Council (ORC) put $200,000 aside in this year’s budget to support catchment groups, and convened a Catchment Support Advisory Group made up of staff and councillors, catchment group representatives and a regional coordinator from NZ Landcare Trust. The Advisory Group’s goal is to create and support an Otago-wide network of catchment groups that are addressing water quality and waterway health, now and for generations to come. Using the money, ORC is helping the catchment groups to establish an incorporated society. The incorporated society will employ a full time regional coordinator and contract more localised coordinators as required to support catchment groups across Otago. Pomahaka farmer Lloyd McCall, a longstanding member of the Pomahaka Water Care Group, and one of the main organisers behind

the collaboration, said that it was on a really exciting trajectory. “This initiative will support engaged landowners to achieve environmental outcomes specific to their area. “Providing coordination and administrative support, along with information sharing and connecting with all stakeholders will allow landowners to concentrate on achieving on-theground outcomes. “Lyndon Strang is the establishment chairperson and there is representation from across all of Otago. It’s exciting to see the development of a working relationship between landowners and the ORC in recent years culminating in this support of a catchment group network,” McCall said. Catchment groups come in many shapes and sizes and already do a lot of great work on the ground said Otago Regional Councillor Bryan Scott. “Ideally, this strategic support will assist them on their respective journeys, particularly those that are evolving or endeavouring to get to the next level. “One of the many great things about catchment groups is that regardless of current politics or policies, people of all backgrounds can simply roll up their sleeves and work together to achieve positive things for their waterways and environment. “The Otago Regional Council is absolutely thrilled to support this initiative." The umbrella organisation will now work to establish itself as a legal entity and commence recruitment for roles to support catchment groups to improve water quality throughout Otago.

Extension of support for foreign nationals in hardship Joanna Perry

newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

The Foreign Nationals Support Programme | Visitor Care Manaaki Manuhiri, has been extended from September 30 to November 30 2020. First launched on July 1, Visitor Care the programme is a joint venture between New Zealand Red Cross and the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) to support temporary visaholders who are experiencing serious financial hardship, have exhausted other options and have no current access to flights home. To date, over 7,000 people have received support from the programme, helping them access basic needs like food, accommodation and medical support, while they explore other options. “We are really proud to have helped so many, but we know there are still people out there who are struggling, and we encourage them to check their

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eligibility and apply for support,” said Internal Affairs Programme Director Darryl Carpenter. Nationally, an average of 980 applications are being made each week, of which 13 per cent were from Otago - and mainly the QueenstownWānaka area. “We are very pleased that the Government has decided to extend Visitor Care Manaaki Manuhiri through to the end of November 2020,” New Zealand Red Cross Project Lead Rachel O’Connor said. “While some of the people who received support in the first three months of the programme have now been repatriated, found work in New Zealand or alternative means of support, through our work on the ground we know that there are still significant and urgent humanitarian needs being faced by people on temporary visas in our communities. We are proud to be able to continue supporting them.”

PHOTO: Supplied

Hand hygiene, physical distancing, and appropriate mask use remain simple yet important ways to keep yourself and the community safe by slowing the spread of any potential COVID-19 transmission.

Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

Southern DHB’s Medical Officer of Health, Susan Jack is acknowledging the Government’s move to Alert Level 1 outside Auckland but is urging southerners to maintain important health and hygiene precautions. “While a move to Alert Level 1 for Southern from 11.59pm tonight is welcome news for businesses and allows greater individual freedoms, from a public health perspective maintaining the basics is still important. “A reminder to everyone living in or visiting the Southern district – if you have cold or flu symptoms you should get tested. COVID testing is free and available seven days a week. Call your GP or 0800VIRUS19 to be referred for a test. You do not need to self-isolate after a test, but you should stay home until you are symptom-free. “Hand hygiene, physical distancing, and

appropriate mask use remain simple yet important ways to keep yourself and the community safe by slowing the spread of any potential COVID-19 transmission. “We have seen both here in New Zealand and overseas that the situation can change very quickly, so we need to maintain our good habits even though we are going down an alert level.” Jack said that while the move would not impact the day-to-day operations of hospitals throughout the Southern District, people who were unwell must not visit others in hospital. “We still require visitors and staff to use the COVID tracing app, or hard copy sign-in sheets when entering Southern DHB facilities, and to use the hand sanitiser provided. Screening and physical distancing will continue in Emergency Departments and waiting rooms. “We thank everyone for their continued cooperation and support of our staff, as they work to look after patients and the wider Southern community,” she said.

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NEWS IN BRIEF Reimagining wellbeing together ‘Reimagining wellbeing together’ is one of five key themes which will be explored during the new RemoteTogetherNZ festival in Queenstown this November. Festival organiser Trent Yeo said the theme - the focus of the National Mental Health Awareness Week - had never been more relevant for people who had had to adjust quickly to flexible and remote working conditions in response to COVID-19. “Our mental, emotional, physical and social wellbeing has been put to the test this year so working out how we can connect with others is critical to building successful remote and distributed workforces for the future.” Mindfulness and wellbeing activities were an integral part of the festival programme, and various speakers would share research and experiences and encourage conversations around social engagement, mental fitness and resilience. Paralympians to speak in Wānaka Holly Robinson and Caitlin Dore will be amongst a group of para-athletes at the Wānaka WaterSports Facility on October 10 from 4.30 pm. This is an amazing opportunity to be inspired by some of the world’s best Paralympians. Holly Robinson has attended two Paralympics and a Commonwealth Games. A highlight in her career so far was being the flag bearer at the Rio Olympics, where she won a silver medal.

She is the current world record holder in the F46 Javelin. Holly is joined by Caitlin Dore, the F37 shot putter who also attended the Rio Paralympics. Coach Raylene Bates will also attend the relaxed sessions, which will be a chance for the young athletes to share their stories before answering questions. Primary school children (parents required) are invited from 4.30 to 5 pm. Secondary pupils (parent welcome) are invited from 5.15 to 5.45 pm. Rotary Club of Wānaka Book Sale on this weekend The annual Rotary Club of Wānaka Book Sale, comprising thousands of second hand books, is on this weekend from Friday 2 October to Sunday 4 October. Now is the time to find that great book at a bargain price!. Rotary Club of Wānaka president Mike Elliot said the public response to donating books has been bigger than ever this year. The books have been categorised to make browsing easy, and a coloured sticker indicates the price for each book. Pets galore! Hawea Flat School had its first pet day in almost 20 years last week, as a fitting tribute to the start of the school holidays. Principal Tania Pringle said students had lobbied for the pet day while studying ‘wellbeing’ at school. Pets are part of families and contribute to the wellbeing of its members. There were classes for dogs, horses, sheep,

lambs, goats, and pigs; and a section for caged pets, which included hens, other birds, cats, guinea pigs, rabbits, and more unusual pets, like fish, turtles and even a rat named Buttercup. There was also a section for non-living pets, including pets constructed from natural materials, from fruit or vegetables, pets made from Lego, K’nex, and Meccano, and soft toys and teddies. Teachers agreed it was a lovely way to end the term. Trails almost up and running again Wānaka’s biking and walking trails are almost back to normal after the damage done by last summer’s floods when heavy rain raised the lake level and closed Ardmore Street beside Pembroke Park. Wilsons Construction was tasked with the refurbishment of the trails which included Glendhu Bay, Eely point and the Outlet Track. The work included widening trails, reinstating naturalised retaining walls, drainage improvements, addressing large scale scouring and surfacing upgrades. A budget of approximately $400,000 was allocated for the repair work. The repair work is due for completion by the end of October. Fishing season opens October 1 The weather may have the last laugh for the opening of the fishing season. It wouldn’t be opening in the south without some wild and wintry weather to keep anglers on their toes.

Otago Fish and Game Officer Nigel Pacey said “A bitterly cold snap is set to move over the country in the lead up to the October 1 opening, with many rivers set to get a hammering over the next couple of days. We are already hearing reports of heavy snow with rising, chocolate coloured rivers throughout Otago. “The challenge will be to find fishable water that hasn’t been hit hard. “The Southern Lakes will continue to fish well with plenty of rainbows congregating at stream mouths. “Target the drop-offs with a softbait, toby or tassie. If you are a fly angler, then a sink tip is useful to get your flies over the edge of the drop.” Check your bore! ORC reminds private bore owners to get their water tested regularly. Anyone using a private bore for drinking water should have it regularly tested and ensure the bore head is well secured. Water users should treat water (with chlorination, ozonation, boiling, or adequate filtration) or access an alternative water source if they are uncertain about its safety. E. coli is a subset of faecal bacteria. Any water that contains E. coli above drinking water standards is considered unsuitable to drink without treatment. Anyone concerned about health risks should contact their GP, or call Healthline on 0800 611 116 for free advice from trained registered nurses.

Local bee scholar encourages others to apply Joanna Perry

newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

Young people wanting to start a career in beekeeping are being encouraged to apply for the annual Ron Mossop Youth Scholarship. The scholarship was set up three years ago as a way of giving young people the best possible start in the apiculture industry. It provides $2,000 towards best practice training and/or set up costs and membership of Apiculture New Zealand. Last year’s recipient Jess Curtis said the scholarship gave her a head start in her

career, providing important connections within the industry and a huge boost to her plans to transform a childhood passion into a valued part of her family’s farm.. Jess is currently enrolled in the ApiNZ Apprenticeship in Apiculture scheme and is working alongside Taylor Pass Honey in Wānaka. Her long-term goal is to establish a boutique honey business on her family farm that can be used as a base to educate customers about the importance of beekeeping and sustainability. Taylor Pass has been operating in Wānaka for the last five years, keeping over 3,000

hives during the season, and has two local girls apprenticing with them including Curtis. Beekeeper Steve Wootton said it had been “great to see Jess be able to move forward in this way.” “I would highly recommend applying for the scholarship, even if you haven’t started an apprenticeship or don’t know where to start,” said Curtis. “In my opinion, the industry is only going to keep growing and the demand for skilled individuals is there.” For more information and how to apply, go to www.apinz.org.nz/scholarship-inbeekeeping.

PHOTO: Brianna Curtis

Local girl and 2019 Ron Mossop Youth Scholarship winner Jess Curtis with her first batch of honey from her hives.

LET US KNOW

by 11 October 2020

and be in to win a $250 Prezzy card!

Take part in the 2020 Quality of Life Survey. Share how you feel about life in the Queenstown Lakes District, what improvements you’d like to see and your aspirations for the future. This will feed in to what’s included in our 2021-31 Ten Year Plan and help us shape a great today and an even better tomorrow. More than 2,000 take part every year, so join them and tell us what you think.

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OPINION By Jim Boult, QLDC Mayor It’s been another challenging few weeks with Auckland at what’s been phrased as Alert Level 2.5, and the rest of us once again physically distancing, scanning ourselves in, sanitising etc and with the addition of face masks on public transport. With no cases locally it’s been interesting to see how some have not been as strict in following the guidance and considering this as an Auckland problem. To that I would say we all need to play our part and even though the virus is not here now, it easily could be and we need to do our bit to minimise any risks of resurgence.

Having said that, I was delighted with the Prime Minister’s announcement on Monday that the rest of Aotearoa New Zealand would be moving to Alert Level 1. An ease of physical distancing requirements is great news for our district and just in time for the school holiday rush. I know many business owners in industries such as hospitality, retail, accommodation and more have been struggling. In the absence of international visitors, Auckland folks make a big contribution to our local economy and I hope to see our cafes, bars and attractions coming to life over the coming weeks.

Our tourism industry is no doubt delighted to hear that Jetstar is back in the air and Air New Zealand has increased the number of seats available to domestic destinations and I am confident that many businesses will be ready to welcome them with open arms. To be honest with you, it will be great to see a bit more of a buzz around our towns, and with spring on the way let’s hope it’s a much-needed lift to the spirits after what has been a tough six months for everyone. Whilst this is not nirvana with an absence of Australian and international markets, we

are utilising the events funding from the government to drive a high level of domestic visits in the district. We have some great venues and a lot of creativity in our district so I am confident we can attract some strong talent, exciting events and some crowds of locals and fellow Kiwis to enjoy some of the best of what New Zealand has to offer. On the back of last week’s Mental Health Awareness Week, I encourage you all to make the most of our beautiful district with these relaxed restrictions, take notice of the great things around you, attend an event, and be kind to one another.

No simple solution to Red Kia Kaha Queenstown Lakes Bridge freedom camping workshops kick-off Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

Kia Kaha Queenstown Lakes workshops start on Monday 5 October, offering a wide array of free sessions for community members to attend in Queenstown and Wānaka. The workshops will provide accurate, independent information and advice regarding current job opportunities in the district, business support, retraining and career advice, along with income support options available for those interested. Queenstown Lakes District Council's (QLDC) Kia Kaha Queenstown Lakes Lead, Marie Day said the reintroduction of Kia Kaha Queenstown Lakes workshops was an important step towards the district's recovery from COVID-19, with a

number of residents looking for new work or to understand what support was available to them during this challenging time. "Whether people are looking for a new job, or wondering about a career change or new study and looking for advice on how they should proceed, Kia Kaha Queenstown Lakes workshops can help them take their next step," Day said. "Workshops are also available for business owners looking to understand what services and financial products are available to help support their business and staff." Workshops begin in Queenstown on Monday 5 October, and more are scheduled to begin in Wānaka from Monday 12 October. All sessions are free to attend and require registration, with a timetable available at www.qldc.govt.nz/kia-kaha.

PHOTO: Wānaka Sun archive

Quentin Smith said the Red Bridge site was similar to “any layby or roadside in a rural area” where freedom camping was permitted.

Joanna Perry

newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

Luggate Albion Cricket Club (LACC) president Mike O'Connor told The Wānaka App last week that the Luggate Campground, which funds the club, had seen a drop in business due to freedom camping being permitted at the Red Bridge reserve and a lack of regulation of the site by Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC). But the ongoing issues with freedom camping in the district are more complex, with Council responding that the answer lies with a central government review of legislation related to freedom camping. “The government and Tourism New Zealand continue to see freedom camping as an important part of the tourism offering; the Freedom Camping Act 2011 expressly states that local government ‘must not absolutely prohibit freedom camping’ and that a ‘local authority may not make bylaws under section 11 that have the effect of prohibiting freedom camping in all the local authority areas in its district,’ said Jack Barlow, QLDC media and channels advisor. The Council were waiting for “imminent” funding confirmation from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) to assist in managing freedom camping issues, as had been received for the last three summers, which would be “applied primarily to enforcement and education across the QLDC region.” Councillor Quentin Smith added that it was

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not simply an issue of moving campers on from the Red Bridge site. After collating thousands of surveys from freedom campers, Council had a good idea of what they were seeking and, if displaced from one free site, they would find another rather than gravitate towards a paid one. QLDC had not promoted the Red Bridge reserve as a campground since it was downgraded to a “site” (with no facilities) two years ago, and Smith said it was now similar to “any layby or roadside in a rural area” where freedom camping was permitted. And, whilst it’s clear that other campsites in the area have felt the impact of free camping at the Red Bridge reserve, it is not only used by overseas tourists, but Kiwis and locals as well. Albert Town Campground Rudi Sanders said: “It does take business away from other camps, but it’s a public reserve, and Council cannot close it. It would affect New Zealanders as well.” Graeme Perkins, Chair of the Luggate Community Association - which is supportive of camping at the reserve - believed that former management issues at the Luggate Campground were also partly to blame for a lack of campers. “More often than not, there would be a no vacancy sign up at the campsite and plenty of room, and we as locals would think, ‘what’s going on?” he said. He believed that changes to the way the campsite was run, such as a new pay and display system, were a “big step in the right direction” in making it more accessible to campers and said the Association were “very happy” with that. THURSDAY 01.10.20 - WEDNESDAY 07.10.20

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Sun SnowSport

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SNOW BOARDING COLUMN

Music for the snow Joanna Perry

newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

PHOTO: Adi Bernasconi

L-R: Bayley McDonald (U14 boys), Hemi Meikle (U16 boys), Mikayla Smyth (U16 girls), Mathilda Watterson and Charlotte Wiggins (U14 girls).

NZ Alpine Youth Championships winners crowned Joanna Perry

newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

The 2020 Snowvision NZ Alpine Youth Champions were crowned on Saturday, September 26 after an action packed day of both Slalom and Giant Slalom racing at Cardrona Alpine Resort - and they were Wānaka champions across the board. The titles were awarded to: • U16 girls: Mikayla Smyth, Coberger Academy, Wānaka Ski and Snowsports Club • U16 boys: Hemi Meikle, Wānaka Ski Team, Wānaka Ski and Snowsports Club • U14 girls: Mathilda Watterson and Charlotte Wiggins (tied in first place), both Wānaka Ski Team, both Wānaka Ski and Snowsports Club • U14 boys: Bayley McDonald, Wānaka Ski Team, Wānaka Ski and Snowsports Club.

Both Bayley McDonald (U14 boys Champion) and Mikayla Smyth (U16 girls champion) won both the Slalom and Giant Slalom races in their divisions. Mathilda Watterson and Charlotte Wiggins were neck and neck throughout the National Points Youth series this winter, and, taking a first and second place each, tied first for the overall championship title. Hemi Meikle (U16 boys Champion) was the top New Zealand male in his division, finishing in second place in Slalom and third place in Giant Slalom. Sammie Packer of Australia took the win in both disciplines, but only New Zealand citizens are eligible for the Snowvision Youth Championship titles. The championships were scheduled to be a three-day event with Slalom, Giant Slalom and Super G held between September 25 and 27. Due to unfavourable snow conditions and poor weather, it was decided to race both Slalom and Giant Slalom last Saturday and scratch Super G.

I’m usually listening to music all the time. Everything I do - from going to the gym to reading a book - has a soundtrack. But so far, I’ve avoided putting my headphones in on the slopes out of a fear that if I can’t hear the people around me, I’ll crash into them. I was feeling a little nervous to be back up Cardrona after a short break last week, and still a little traumatised from the Treble Cone closing party. There weren’t too many people around, so I decided I’d risk putting one earbud in to help me relax for the first run or two. Studies show that listening to music can relax the mind, increase concentration, lessen distraction and improve focus and performance by engaging certain parts of the brain. Although my own findings are far less scientific, to say I noticed a difference would be an understatement. I freaking killed it. I made it the whole day without falling over on any of the runs or lifts, I overtook people on the scariest of cat tracks, and I even managed to do my bindings up without having to sit down

PHOTO: Supplied

once. I finally got a sense of what my long-term ski and snowboarding friends are on about when they talk about the flow state; the idea that your consciousness is totally absorbed by the present moment and your immediate reactions to it. I wasn’t really thinking about it, I was just doing it. It was just me and my snowboard. Of course, it pretty much was just me and my snowboard - it was a really quiet day. Who knows if I’ll be frothing quite so hard next week when three hundred school children are chasing me down Whitestar, but it was my favourite day of snowboarding so far, and quite possibly a game changer.

Para-alpine skiers celebrated in Queenstown

WANAKA REC CENTRE LEARNERS’ POOL SATURDAY 3 OCTOBER - MOVIE STARTS 6.00PM

PHOTO: Supplied

All four athletes honoured on Thursday are para-alpine skiers: number 157, Anthony Field (Wānaka); number 85, Mathew Butson (Queenstown); number 188, Corey Peters (Wānaka); and number 158, Adam Hall (Dunedin).

Joanna Perry

newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

PG Special Deal 2 x Adults + 1 Child $10 1 x Adult + 2 Children $10 Additional People $3 each In-pool tickets limited to 35

Enjoy watching this family blockbuster from the warmth of our pool, or stay dry and watch it from the poolside

Tickets available in advance or on the night (subject to maximum pool numbers)

Snacks and drinks available as Wanaka Swim Club fundraiser CASH ONLY

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41 Sir Tim Wallis Drive, Wanaka T 03 443 9334 E wrc@qldc.govt.nz W qldc.govt.nz/recreation

Paralympics New Zealand (PNZ) marked the eighth community event of The Celebration Project, where the achievements of New Zealand Paralympians are officially recognised, with a celebration of four athletes including Wānaka’s Anthony Field and Corey Peters in Queenstown last Thursday. The Celebration Project looks back over 50 years of Paralympic history in New Zealand since 1968 Tel Aviv, and acknowledges the 209 Paralympians that have represented New Zealand and brought home 221 medals. 85 Paralympians have now received their official ‘numbered’ Paralympic pin and certificate following eight Celebration Project events in Auckland, Whangarei, Hamilton, Tauranga, New Plymouth, Palmerston North and North Shore, Auckland during 2019/2020. A further three are scheduled for later in the year. All four athletes honoured on Thursday are paraalpine skiers: number 157, Anthony Field (Wānaka);

THURSDAY 01.10.20 - WEDNESDAY 07.10.20

number 85, Mathew Butson (Queenstown); number 188, Corey Peters (Wānaka); and number 158, Adam Hall (Dunedin). Peters came to the sport in 2011, two years after crushing his spinal cord at a motocross event. He claimed a silver medal at the Sochi 2014 Paralympic Winter Games and bronze at PyeongChang 2018. Field, who lost his right arm at the age of 8 after a car crashed into him while playing cricket on the road, had his Paralympic debut at the Torino 2006 Paralympic Winter Games and now coaches both disabled and able-bodied skiers at Cardrona for Snow Sports NZ. “To be able to give back to the adaptive side of the sport and the organisation that helped me to get to the Paralympics, that’s a real buzz,” said Field. “Talking to people in wheelchairs, the common theme is that when they get on the snow, they absolutely relish being able to suddenly go wherever they want, at whatever speed they want. I think that’s the great thing about para-alpine skiing. It truly gives people back their freedom of movement.”

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The winter of 2020- the ski season that almost wasn't Alas the winter of 2020 is almost at a close. We got together these images of the ski season that almost didn't happen because of COVID-19. As it was, it turned out to be a terrific season. What it lacked in snow it made up for in the sheer crowds and enthusiasm of the punters on the fields. Enjoy!

Lukas Lipina skis Anderson Bowl out the back of Cardrona.

On the left is Olly Thomas (18) and on the right is Luca Harrington (16). Both are both WÄ naka locals.

PHOTO: Supplied

Hazel Robinson, finally mastering the angled box on her 7th birthday, dressed as a banana.

PHOTO: Supplied

Hazel and Holly Robinson heading out for a great day at Cardrona.

Andy Salek skiing in the Buchanans.

Ben Renshaw boarding in the Buchanans.

THE WÄ&#x20AC;NAKA SUN

PHOTO: Mark Sedon

Here is Sue Baker in the rainbow unicorn and her husband, David Baker. David is a ski instructor at Cardrona and Sue is a host.

PHOTO: Mark Sedon

Hamish Wixen skiing the Harris Mountains

PHOTO: Nigel Smith

Hollywood Bowl at Treble Cone- who's been there?

THURSDAY 01.10.20 - WEDNESDAY 07.10.20

PAGE 11

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WĀNAKA BRIDGE CLUB RESULTS

CAMERA CLUB ‘IN FOCUS’

Tuesday 22 Sept: (Howell Movement) 1st Ava Sanders Sue Blake 58.33%, 1st Bridget McCaughan Heather Wellman 58.33%, 3rd Martin Jacques Peter Hart 57.81%.

Environmental photography Environmental photography is one where the subject is portrayed in a surrounding that reflects something about their identities, such as their work, trade, activities or interests. For example, if a subject likes horses, a picture of them in a stable brushing a horse, or a professional writer in a study; or an engineer is his workshop. So environmental photography typically positions a subject in their natural surroundings. It is different from a traditional portrait photograph as it attempts to capture the character of the subject and give some insight into their daily life, making for a more informative image. This can be achieved by taking the image anywhere the subject relates to and feels relaxed and comfortable in. Once we have found a place where our subject feels at home, the next step is to look for a background that adds a sense of place and defines the character of our subject. Background details are essential as these define our subject’s environment. However we should be careful that this doesn’t detract from our subject who should remain the centre of attention. Posing our subject and capturing natural body language takes practice, but with good perception, this can prove an enjoyable experience for both ourselves and our model. It is vital that our subject feels relaxed as any stress will be evident in the photo. Good communication is an essential part of the

Wednesday – Cloudy Peak Pairs 3: North/ South: 1st Sonya Adams Maggie Stratford 66.07%, 2nd Dorothy McDonald Jacquie Staley 60.12%, 3rd Annie Hudson Rosie Williamson 52.38%. East/ West: 1st Maurice Maclaren Richard Stuart 57.44%, 2nd Jude Gunn Noeline Munro 55.06%, 3rd Kay Ross Doug Hall 52.38%. Final Ladder: 1st Sonya Adams Maggie Stratford 61.51%, 2nd Jacqui Roberts Carol Orbell 56.94%, 3rd Harry Dillon George Foreman 52.58%.

Environmental photography typically positions a subject in their natural surroundings.

picture-taking process. We should ask our model how they feel and never get them to pose in a way they don’t feel comfortable with. If we are shooting someone in their everyday working, sporting or social environment, they could continue with these activities while we photograph. We should always remember we are capturing their personality in a setting familiar to them, so step back and observe their actions before we shoot. Anticipation is the key in taking the shot at what Henri Cartier-Bresson famously called ‘the decisive moment.’ Tui Willson’s picture ‘Best of Friends’ is an excellent example of an environmental photograph. She took her picture in early December on the

PHOTO: Tui Wilson

side of the Lindis River when the lupins were in full bloom. Tui wanted to capture the friendship between a girl and her pony, sharing a quiet moment surrounded by nature, She waited until 8 pm for the golden hour of the low summer sun to showcase the depth of colours framing them. Tui’s picture was taken with a Canon EOS7D camera with an aperture of f2.8, a focal length of 112mm, a shutter speed of 1/400th sec and ISO 500. Wānaka Camera Club is dedicated to improving the skills of anyone interested in photography. Come along and see what we can do for you. Our next meeting is Monday 12t October, 7.30 pm St John’s Rooms, Link Way.

Friday 25 Sept: North/ South: 1st Sherril Harries Maggie Stratford 67.86%, 2nd Jill Paxman Mary Maclean 51.79%, 3rd Lynne Fegan David Brewer 50.60%. East/ West: 1st Madeleine Reveley Jenny Muir 57.44%, 2nd Robert Kaplan Dorothy Fennell 55.95%, 3rd Maurice Maclaren Richard Stuart 51.79%. Monday – Championship Pairs 7: North/South: 1st Sherril Harries Maggie Stratford 66.67%, 2nd Terry Wilson Murray Pryde 55.65%, 3rd Jenny Pryde Marion Furneaux 52.08%. East / West: 1st Alan Cushnie Paul Cushnie 58.04% 2nd Ena Leckie Michael Chapman – Smith 55.36% 3rd Dorothy McDonald Nan Ottrey 55.06%

MON 28 SEPTEMBER TO 9 OCTOBER

SCHOOL HOLIDAY IDEAS AWESOME FUN FOR ACTIVE KIDS AGED 5-12 See customer services for a brochure and booking form, or visit: www.qldc.govt.nz/recreation

Phone: 03 443 8000, Top of Helwick Street, Wānaka OPEN: MON-SAT 8AM TO 6PM • SUN 10AM TO 6PM PAGE 12

THURSDAY 01.10.20 - WEDNESDAY 07.10.20

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EDITORIAL

What to do with all those rabbits? Take a walk up Mt Iron, or around the Albert Town campground, or out along the Lake Hawea foreshore track, and the rabbits scatter in waves. I know when I leave my place in Lake Hawea early morning, the rabbits' hippity-hop along the road in front of me, their little eyes blinking in the headlights. Always the bane of Central Otago, they seem to be particularly prevalent at the moment. So what to do about them? It's a dilemma. When I approached the QLDC on the matter, they said: "The key to rabbit control is having landowners act collaboratively and, whenever possible, QLDC works in conjunction with neighbouring landowners to make this happen. QLDC manages pests on Council-owned or managed land only and undertakes some rabbit control where possible. "The Otago Regional Council (ORC) is the regulatory body for pest management in Otago through the Regional Pest Management Plan, which targets a range of pest plants and animals." When I got onto the ORC website I couldn't find the Regional Pest Management Plan – the page was down. I searched for "rabbits" and was referred to the Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV) page. This is also known as rabbit calicivirus disease (K5) and was introduced to New Zealand illegally in 1997. But it has been proved that although viruses can provide a good knockback in numbers, they are no silver bullet and ongoing rabbit management is needed to keep numbers down. "In 2018 a controlled release of the RHDV1 K5 (K5) virus around New Zealand, led by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), took place. This is not a new virus. It was hoped that this strain would provide enough of a knockback for landowners to get on top of rabbit control. Results are still being studied by Landcare Research as the virus will continue to work into the future," the website said.

But I think it has been agreed upon (at least by the Otago farmers I know) that the virus hasn't had the desired effect and that rabbit numbers are as prolific as ever. Pindone is ideal for rabbit control of lifestyle and semi-rural properties, the website said But when QLDC laid Pindone around the Albert Town reserve sometime in May, take it from someone who periodically walks out that way, nothing much seems to have happened. The rabbits are still there, burrows and all. But things are definitely on the improvement compared to the early days of sheep farming in Otago. In 1884 rabbiters killed 24,000 rabbits on Kawarau Station down near Cromwell and then another 28,000 the following year. These numbers are staggering and it's no surprise that the productivity of the station declined dramatically. The rabbits ate all the grass so necessary to farming merino sheep. This was serious damage for the run holder back in those days. What's more, throughout the 1870s and 1880s, farmers walked off their farms in Otago because of the impact of rabbits; come 1887, half a million hectares of land had been abandoned. This also is staggering. There is nothing more to say other than rabbits have been the scourge of Central Otago for centuries. So back to the Albert Town campground and its rabbits. Campers aren't farmers, and the impact of the animal on them is not extreme. It doesn't affect their lives other than falling down a rabbit hole and twisting an ankle. But rabbits do damage the topsoil of our reserves with their burrowing and eat away at the vegetation affecting the growth of local flora. And their numbers will only increase, and they will spread further if there is not a serious effort to curtail them. – By Pat Deavoll, Editor, The Wānaka Sun

Crimeline The bright nights are here, and we all will have a little longer in the evening to enjoy the outdoors. With the forecasted weather we need to be aware to drive to the conditions. For local sports fans, it has been great news. The Shield has been won, and it is heading back down south. Monday morning saw Police deal with a disturbance at a Cardrona Road address that led to a male being detained due to his degree of intoxication. Police also received a report of a male loitering on the deck of an address at Kereru Crescent intoxicated. Police apprehended a motorist for excess breath alcohol. Tuesday saw Police deal with damage to the signage at New World Supermarket at Dungarvon Street and deal with a motorist who became confused and drove on the wrong side of the roadway. Later in the day they apprehended another motorist for excess breath alcohol. Wednesday saw Police deal with three minor vehicle collisions; driver inattention was a factor. Thursday Police received a report of theft of a jacket a Woody’s Bar. Supposing you have taken the wrong one by mistake, return it, please. Police also received a report of a sheep shot through the eye on Kane Road during the early hours of the morning. If you have been shooting in this area, please clearly identify your targets and gain the owner’s permission before shooting on any land. Friday night saw Police deal with two males

THE WĀNAKA SUN

who had become extremely intoxicated at our bars. They had to be removed and returned to their owners! Level One meant our bars were busy, and we were able to enjoy this greater freedom. Please drink responsibly so you can keep yourself safe and lets us keep our community at level one. Saturday saw Police apprehend another motorist for excess breath alcohol. Police also dealt with a motorist who crashed his vehicle on Riverbank Road; it is wise if such an incident occurs to make contact with the Police so that they are not searching for you. The same also applies to those of you getting out on the lake; on Saturday a full Search & Rescue response was initiated after a sailor capsized his catamaran. After swimming to shore, driving home and then returning with a speedboat, he didn’t think to alert anyone that he was ok. All the while, his vessel lay capsized off Eely Point. Our local Harbourmaster Craig Blake is always welcoming people to get in touch with him to save any alarm being raised. With the wild weather that has arrived early this week, there is an increased risk of avalanches in the backcountry. No one should be venturing into the peaks until the conditions have settled. Check Avalanche.net.nz for the latest conditions. Have a safe week, be careful not to drink and drive, treat each other with the kindness you would like to be shown yourself. – By Senior Constable Sean Hurley and Constable Ben Wallbank