We tip our hat to Holly Gibson
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Covid impact deepens
The annual swimming race around Ruby Island is off.
ovid’s continued damage to the Upper Clutha economy has continued as businesses close, events fall by the wayside and Government restrictions are cited as making events unviable. Queenstown Lakes District Council this week canned the major New Year gatherings which attracts thousands of people to Wānaka and Queenstown. The popular Ruby Swim planned for late January has also been left beached. Wānaka is about to lose its Youth Hostel, and an award-winning cafe in Cromwell is closing with the owner refusing to “discriminate” against who can be served. The Rhythm and Alps Music festival from December 29-31 is on, though. The traffic light system has Upper Clutha at amber, but it’s too difficult for some to manage. The organiser of the eighth annual Lake Ruby swim on Lake Wānaka, Eddie Spearing, said in terms of who is vaccinated among the entrants it would not be possible to police.
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Had it gone ahead, none of the competitors would have stayed in a youth hostel in Wānaka. Eleven Youth Hostels across the country – including one in Wānaka - will close their doors permanently, having been starved of patrons. The organisation said domestic tourists came in twice as many numbers, but it was not enough to compensate for the loss of international back packers. And this week the Tarras Country Cafe owner announced it would close – because “I can not and will not run my business when I have to discriminate against who I can and can’t employ, and who I can and can’t let in my doors”. The cafe announced it would close its doors tomorrow. The Government has announced certain roles in health and disability, education and corrections must be fully vaccinated against Covid-19. A consequence is that the viability of some operations are in question. The number of doctors and nurses lost to the profession remains unclear.
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The New Zealand Fire service announced this week volunteer brigades in Inangahua and, in the Bay of Plenty, Matakana Island, could not operate because they did not have sufficient numbers of vaccinated members. But the service told the Wānaka Sun that situation did not apply in Otago. In Wānaka this week the owners of three Yoga studios, which have been open for over 20 years collectively, said they opposed the Government mandate. Nicci Huston owner of Hot Yoga Fusion, Prairie Pritchett (The Body Garage) and Susan Allen (Yoga Ground) said in a joint statement the word ‘yoga’ and the practice of yoga meant to join or unite. “To live this, we must be inclusive to all and at this current time, we all need our practice more than ever. For us, telling people that they couldn't be a part of something so important for mental wellbeing, for physical wellbeing is just a step too far.” Letters, more Covid news, See Page 6
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Double scholars
Temo Heath and Jessie Barkman-White (left) were named joint winners of the Kahu Youth Scholarship in Wānaka this week. Kahu Youth created their first scholarship, in partnership with the Rotary Club of Wānaka, to focus on individuals who choose a non-traditional path to tertiary study. Youth Trust Programmes and Events Coordinator Sam Strong said the intention is to highlight Upper Clutha community involvement, intrinsic motivation to achieve goals and extracurricular activities. “The two finalists, Temo Heath and Jessie Barkman-White demonstrated extreme tenacity towards achieving their future goals,” she said. “Over the past year, we here at Kahu Youth have developed a strong and rewarding relationship with the two winners. We know them both to be caring, kind, supportive, passionate, intelligent, exuberant and allround, wonderful people.” Temo will attend SIT next year to complete a certificate in Event Technology before moving on to study a Bachelor of Audio Engineering while Jessie will be attend NMIT to complete level 3 and 4 in Cellar Operations. Both will receive $1500 towards any tertiary school related expense for the 2022 school year. The scholarship targets 16–24-year-olds who have been in the workforce and or have been out of the education system for a minimum of six months but are applying to a tertiary programme as a young adult.
1 202 Ho m e B u il d e r s
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Hāwea’s Christmas Wonderland It is not just the elves who have been busy over the last few weeks in preparation for Christmas, the Hāwea community volunteers have also been working hard. It has been all hands on deck this week to get the decorations, props and Christmas magic set up at the Lake Hāwea Community Centre. The Christmas Spirit is already in play, the Mitre 10 team, Entertainment Solutions and the children from Hāwea Flat School have all created decorative pieces for this year's display. Lake Hāwea Community Centre volunteer Pip Horrell told the Wānaka Sun residents were in for a treat on the opening night tomorrow. “Not only is it a chance for us to say thank you to our sponsors and wonderful community partners and volunteers, but visitors will be able to see the hard work that goes on behind the scenes as Santa gets ready for Christmas Eve. As they walk through Dick Cotter and Elizabeth Horrell discuss Santa’s sleigh. the magical forest the local fairies will transport Community Centre page on Facebook. • Meanwhile, the 2021 Hawea Picnic Races them to the North Pole, where there are all sorts of have been cancelled for just the second enchanting delights to be found.” time in 70 years. Paul Cunningham told the For more details go to the Lake Hāwea
PHOTO: Pip Horrell
Wānaka Sun following a meeting this week the organising committee decided there were too many uncertainties to carry on. – By Aimee Owens
Markets go online New World has launched online shopping at its two Wānaka outlets. Foodstuffs South Island have launched the service at their New World and Pak’n Save stores from Motueka to Invercargill as part of a phased roll out which will continue during 2022. As each store is owner-operated, New World and Pak’n Save customers can purchase groceries based on what is on the shelves at their local store. New World is offering a delivery service, both New World and Pak’n Save are offering Click & Collect, and customers can select any store from which to collect their order from. Stuart Hore, owner operator at New World Wānaka said he was delighted to be able to offer the service. New World customers will be able to place orders up to a week in advance and the order checkout process can be completed up to 12 hours ahead of collection time for New World Click & Collect and home delivery customers. Customers can park in a dedicated Click & Collect car park, and a New World team member will bring the order out to the customer’s car. “This is a big milestone, and our team is excited to bring online shopping to our Wānaka community and provide customers with another convenient way to do their grocery shop,” says Dean Bartley, owner operator off New World Three Parks.
Ash Rabel demonstrating stream health monitoring in the Luggate Creek during the Wao Summit Farm Tour hosted by WAI Wānaka.
WAI celebrates grants Water Action Initiative (WAI) Wānaka has won a US$10,000 grant from Riot Games, creator of online game ‘League of Legends’, to continue their work in the Upper Clutha. The organisation, which is committed to helping build healthy ecosystems, says it was selected from 19,000 international submissions. ‘We’re grateful for any support of the work we do in the Upper Clutha – this grant will help us deliver education and research projects in the community, and continue to engage businesses, tourists and residents to understand more about our ecosystems and how we can protect them,” Ash Rabel, Science Coordinator at WAI said. WAI chair Mandy Bell said while it has project funding to carry out specific tasks, “grants like this enable us to pursue activities that are outside
of these project scopes but still very important to the community, as identified through our Integrated Community Catchment Plan. In addition to carrying out education and research projects, WAI Wānaka employs up to 44 people, including a field team carrying out environmental work on farms funded by the Ministry for Primary Industry Jobs for Nature Fund. WAI also works with Te Kakano to carry out riparian planting across the Upper Clutha through the Wānaka Water Project. A total of 30 grants have been awarded to nonprofit organisations nominated by players under the Riot Games Social Impact Fund. The recipient organisations span across 18 countries and six continents, and each receive $10,000 grants to support their contributions to communities.
Cromwell project architects named A Christchurch-based company is partnering a Cromwell architect to design Cromwell’s $16 million hall and events centre. Jasmax will work with Jess Sutherland as its architect partner. The project will replace the 1950s Memorial Hall in Melmore Terrace and it is expected demolition work will start on the existing building next July. Central Otago District Council received five submissions to the Cromwell Memorial Hall/ Event Centre Design and Contract Management
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Services tender process, Cromwell Masterplan Project Manager Darren Penketh said. The tender evaluation team comprised Council’s Project Manager – Property, Property Officer and an independent qualified tender evaluator. Two tenderers scored above 70% and were invited to present to the tender evaluation team, and the project advisory group – which includes Cromwell Community Board Chair Anna Harrison and CCB member and Councillor Nigel McKinlay – sat in on
the presentations. “Jasmax stood out for both the team’s wealth of experience on this type of project, the smart way they do things and their collaboration with local partners,” said Mr Penketh. “Their presentation really wowed us and has us excited to get going on this project.” “This project is also about supporting local, and we hope there will be many opportunities for local businesses to participate in what will ultimately be a place of and for the people of Cromwell and Central Otago.”
THURSDAY 02.12.21 - WEDNESDAY 08.12.21
GREBE DIARY 6 November 28, 2021
The hardest part about writing diaries is how best to prioritize what comes first. For this one, there is no doubt that it is all about acknowledgment and gratitude. Gratitude to Sarah Carlton of Mount Aspiring College and Tony Waterworth for guiding MAC students through the building of six new grebe platforms. Quite wonderful, even more so when I find that Tony spoke to the Upper Clutha Angling Club to the extent that they made a very generous donation towards the cost of materials for this work. It’s not the first time both organizations have done this. MAC donated six platforms in 2016, and they too were part funded by the Angling Club. Thank you so much. Meanwhile the grebes have kept up the pace. As I write nests 13, 14 and 16 are busy producing chicks with at least two on each nest, but yet to finish incubation and nests 7 and 10 will be making a significant contribution over the coming week. Not counting the above five new hatchings we have already had 14 nests hatch their broods this year. The photo heading this Diary has come from a person I met on the marina in the early part of last year’s breeding season. His name is Bevan Tulett a wildlife photographer from Christchurch. Bevan has been coming to Wānaka for some time, mostly from what I can gather to photograph the grebes. Many people do that, but few, including yours truly have come up with images like this. It is of a stoat that has just stolen a grebe egg from a nest close to the shore in Lake Alexandrina. The stoat was observed and photographed rolling the egg to its den at the base of a tree. The letter accompanying this photo gives us consent for its use “that would be in the best interests of the Grebes”. Two observations. Firstly this is an astonishing image and record of what is ravaging our wildlife in New Zealand. It’s not the sort of image that you can just turn up somewhere and click your camera. It reflects hours and hours of careful observation coupled with a high level of technical skill. It is a very generous gesture from Bevan and I can only say thank you heaps. The image in its own ways reflects what much of this study is about. The official status of the grebe is rare and threatened, and that echo’s the status of so much of our wildlife and the places where they live. I think we are making progress on the conservation of the Grebe, but there will come a time soon when this area will have to be trapped. There are many more species of birds that live and breed here other than ducks and grebes. I saw a pair of white faced herons visiting just a few days ago. This week Markus has been slaving writing reports on his students. I have been doing the same for our grebes. The week was rounded off by a visit of thirty-five children from the Holy Family School to the boardwalk and the grebes. I really enjoyed that. – By John Darby & Markus Hermanns
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‘Shining star’ mourned Former district councillor Ross McRobie, 70, has died. Ross was elected to the Wānaka Community Board in 2013 and to the Queenstown Lakes District Council in 2016. He represented the district as both a Wānaka ward Councillor and WCB member up until the 2019 local elections when he moved to Otematata where he and his wife Petrea had a holiday home. He stood successfully as a councillor for the Ahuriri ward in the Waitaki District. During his time at QLDC, Ross chaired the Audit, Finance and Risk Committee and was a member of the Planning and Strategy, Chief Executive’s Performance Review and Infrastructure committees. He was also the Council representative to Lake Wānaka Tourism and was appointed chair of the 2018-2028 Ten Year Plan steering group. “This very sad news has shaken me as Ross has always been full of life and a picture of health,” Queenstown Lakes District Mayor Jim Boult said. “He was a shining star in our previous council – honest, frank, not afraid to speak his mind and very committed to the best interests of the district. Very deservedly, Ross will be remembered as a man of great mana. He was an excellent Councillor and a very good friend.
Ready to launch Official Tracks are, from left, Jonathan Gurnsey, Paul Garvie, Chris Ehmann and Tuki Huck.
Running with chips Ross McRobie
Waitaki Mayor Gary Kircher said he had been an ‘‘awesome councillor’’ for the Ahuriri ward and the Waitaki district. Ross was a chartered accountant for more than 30 years and a business coach and mentor. He held governance roles with the New Zealand Film Commission, New Zealand on Air, Snow Sports NZ and Warbirds over Wānaka. He was also a previous chair of Lake Wānaka Tourism, Wānaka Wastebusters and Otago Community Trust.
A running experience to be launched in Queenstown on Saturday is the brainchild of an entrepreneur who came up with the idea during New Zealand’s first lockdown. Official Tracks has taken existing technology and created a new way for athletes to race their own race any time they choose. Combining an official track with an official time, timing gates have been installed outside Queenstown’s Hilton Hotel and on Marine Parade in the resort’s downtown area. Official Tracks timing chips can be bought online. Runners register their timing chip online, then it’s a case of choosing a track and crossing the start line at either of the two gates. Tuki Huck came up with the idea 18 months ago as he watched running race cancellations
around the world. Performances are recorded on the Official Tracks leaderboards when runners pass a second gate. They have an option to run a 2.4km, 5km, 10km, 18km or 36km track. The leaderboards create an online community where runners can compete. “There’s no doubt some more dedicated runners will use it as a training tool and to engage in some local competition, as will visiting groups,” Huck said. He hopes to launch the experience in other parts of the worlds. “Queenstown has some stunning tracks alongside the lake so it makes sense to use it as a launch pad for the business. Official Tracks is a great way to get out and explore the Queenstown trails.”
There were lots of big show debuts for the little ones.
Sweet farewell for Holly Dance Wānaka farewelled senior dancer Holly Gibson in style last weekend. The 18-year-old is leaving Wānaka to pursue University studies next year having been dancing in the school for 14 years and teaching hip hop, jazz and contemporary classes for the last four. She played the lead role of Willie Wonka in her last recital for the troupe last weekend. “Holly is such a talented dancer and has been an outstanding role model within the school and Wānaka Community. She will be sadly missed,” said Dance Wānaka Director Anna Thomas. Willy Wonka was showcased at the Lake Wānaka Centre. Anna Thomas says they were inspired by Charlie & the Chocolate Factory novel and movie this year.
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“We’ve had lots of fun creating and dancing as sweet, tasty delights and colourful fictitious characters. It’s the highlight of our year, and the dancers love the opportunity to perform on stage to family and friends,” said Mrs Thomas. “We have worked hard to make the event possible this year with Covid restrictions, and to perform in the theatre to an audience.” The show was split into three short shows to showcase all of the dancers aged from just two to 18. Dancers performed a wide mix of dance styles from classical ballet, modern jazz, hip hop, contemporary and acro to tap. Other Wānaka lead performers included Aimee Harrold (Charlie Bucket), Isabella Soper (Violet Beauregarde), Tayla Doran (Veruca Salt), and Tamara Burrows (Mike Teavee).
Willy Wonka (Holly Gibson) & tappers in the show’s opening item. THURSDAY 02.12.21 - WEDNESDAY 08.12.21
PHOTOS: Jeannine Tuffin at Photos and Stories
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Board considers impact
The Southern District Health board has this week been evaluating the potential issues which will arise as a result of strike action by medical physicists. Physicists at the country’s six health board which offer radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer will start strike action tomorrow. “At this stage we are still working to understand the extent of the impact of the upcoming strike on our services. We are prioritising all urgent
cases to ensure they are not delayed,” Simon Donlevy, General Manager, Medicine, Women's and Children Directorate, at Southern DHB told the Wānaka Sun. The strike action will involve 24 hour stoppages tomorrow, Monday and Tuesday, followed by two weeks of physicists only supporting radiation treatment during ordinary working hours. “Negotiations have reached an impasse because the employers have refused to offer an
immediate pay increase to this highly qualified medical workforce, effectively a pay cut,” said Apex Advocacy Lead David Munro. “This is a small but vital workforce that has long been vulnerable to being enticed by higher pay to overseas hospitals, especially in Australia. We train amongst the best medical physicists in the world yet a chief physicist in New Zealand is only paid the equivalent of a newly qualified physicist in Australia.” He said frustration amongst members, “who
number more than 90 per cent of this 80 strong workforce, has boiled over”. The announcement from Apex came at almost the same time as the New Zealand Nurses Organisation revealed nurses and other health workers would hold demonstrations outside the corporate offices of Waikato, Canterbury and West Coast District Health Boards to protest their “failure to meet pay deadlines” agreed to under a recently ratified multi-employer collective agreement. That action was cancelled on Tuesday, with the unio claiming a victory and saying the three DHBs had now agreed to make pre-Christmas payments.
Alpine resort homes on market The first land and home packages in an alpine community between Queenstown and Wānaka are on the market. Mt Cardrona Station is a $650 million alpine village project. It is set on 400 hectares of high-country land and will feature 30km of private walking and mountain biking trails. Station co-owner Chris Morton says the scale of the open spaces and facilities sets it apart. “Putting it in context, we’re developing just 29 hectares in 400 hectares of open space. Property owners can walk for five minutes for a coffee, or for four hours to the other end of the station.” Last week saw the launch of The Pioneer neighbourhood of 24 house, land and landscaping packages. Three-bedroom homes start at just shy of $1.3 million. The first stage of the project will include an Adventure Centre with a gym and workout spaces, hot pools, The Club Room and the first 15km of hiking and biking trails. In stage two, The Homestead will feature all-day dining and workspaces and meeting rooms for remote workers, a swimming pool and an additional 15km of trails.
An artist’s impression of The Rose house and landscaping package at Mt Cardrona Station.
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Lights system criticised
The new traffic light system for Covid has been described as being “significantly underpowered” for meaningful prevention of Covid-19 outbreaks. Dr Amanda Kvalsvig, Epidemiologist, Department of Public Health, University of Otago, said the key issue with the traffic light system was that it was designed around incentivising New Zealanders to get vaccinated. She said it was a major and concerning gap in the pandemic response as further information on the omicron variant was anticipated. “What is needed now is a system that’s centred on protecting health and wellbeing and is informed at every level by the science of preventing airborne transmission. We can control Covid-19 if we choose to. Amanda Kvalsvig “Our Covid response system should protect both vaccinated and unvaccinated, including Government to have to wrestle with a succession of children, and it should be explicitly designed to be quick-fix policies that needed to be revised the moment equitable and to uphold Te Tiriti. Only a system there was a new development in the pandemic. – By Dr Amanda Kvalsvig built in that way from first principles will be able Epidemiologist, Department of Public Health, to adapt to whatever the pandemic throws up next. University of Otago, Wellington “It was “exhausting and inefficient” for the
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Readers continue to discuss GP Mark Edmond’s departure from Aspiring Medical Centre and subsequent comments.
Free to speak
It is totally refreshing to see the recent articles published on the views of GP Mark Edmond and the Covid Vaccine. In the last six months there has been a worrying erosion of freedom of speech in our country, largely quashed by the Government's one narrative surrounding the Vaccine and echoed by mainstream media. The right to have differing beliefs, views and have open discussions without fear, consequence, or discrimination should never be lost. I would also like to see the loaded label of “Anti Vaxxer” done away with - it only throws up negative and divisive connotations. We who take the vaccine are not labelled “Vaxxers”. Remember these fellow citizens have a fundamental right to not take the Vaccine. Ben Connolly Wānaka
Facts again...
Yet again the Sun does not fact check what Mark is saying. The trial he is referring to was to primarily check that the vaccine itself caused no undue side effects and had efficacy against infection by covid - which it did - not in its preventative capability against hospitalisation. This should have been made clear. There are now numerous more recent studies - also referenced in the "It's not gene therapy" article that you ran - that clearly indicate that the vaccine is highly effective against hospitalisation, perhaps a link should have been provided. These trial results are both more up to date, have been done internationally, and are far more comprehensive. Mark may have been ignorant of these. Given the importance of the vaccine question the two articles this week should have been placed in the reverse order, or better still the refutation should have been front page. A fact check should have been put in-line with Mark's comments.
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New strain: time will tell What started as yet another variant, definitely made enough noise for the EU and USA to isolate against a bunch of South African countries. Is this the one we all have been afraid of? That is, a highly transmissible, vaccine escape, more virulent variant? Personally, I think it will be difficult for the virus to evolve/select for this trifecta. However, having a canvas of eight billion people to explore, who knows, it may be just a matter of time. We should all be getting vaccinated more or less at the same time, within a logical period of time. This would minimize the opportunity of the virus to evolve, escape from the host immune response and/or vaccine pressure. More importantly, I know that in some countries, where access to Covid-19 vaccines is scarce or less-than-optimally planned, people are mixing and matching different vaccines, at times not following the appropriate schemas. It is similar to taking antibiotics without prescription or antiviral strategies without the proper guidance, all this could put pressure on the virus, perhaps leading to
escape variants. The misuse of vaccines and therapies will only accelerate the selection of “something nastier”. Vaccinating as many people, in a relatively short period of time, has to be the goal, and staying away from misusing antiviral treatments. We do have plenty of experience Miguel Quiñones-Mateu with HIV, HCV, etc, and let’s not start with the overuse of antibiotics. Bottom line: get vaccinated, follow the recommendations of your physician(s), public health officer(s). – By Miguel Quiñones-Mateu Professor Miguel Quiñones-Mateu is the Webster Family Chair in Viral Pathogenesis at University of Otago.
The science is fairly clear on the vaccine's effectiveness against hospitalisation, and for those that understand cellular biology the vaccine simply by-passes the body making its own mRNA, which in traditional vaccines is triggered by cellular level reactions to those vaccines. The Pfizer vaccine is probably quicker to induce immunity and cleaner as it cuts out the side effects from other compounds in traditional vaccines. Mark is quite entitled to his opinions but should not be allowed to present facts without these being fact checked on such an important issue. Just to make it clear, I strongly value scientific accuracy and good journalism and I have absolutely no tie (historic or current) nor investment in any drug companies. Geoffrey Tomkins Wānaka
Two sides...
This is a message for you all to say thank you and well done on sharing an objective overview on the vaccine and the mandates. This is so refreshing. There are always two sides to every story. You could watch a Coca-Cola ad and think it’s the most refreshing drink on the planet, that makes the sunshine and wins you friends. However, if you look deeper, you learn they have taken home first prize for four years running as the number one [plastic] global polluter. But only if you choose to look deeper. I appreciate that you’re offering what most journalistic content in our country does not right now - perspective. Thank you for encouraging your readers to think for themselves. Anna van Riel Wānaka
High fives
A big high five and shoutout to Wānaka Sun for publishing the article re Dr Mark Edmond. Thank you for your inclusion and openness that shows a man who cares about the community in a time when media and mainstream talk is in most cases, pushing an agenda and division. Janelle Fletcher Wānaka
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Fears for tourism operators Destination Queenstown says business events adding up as much at $30 million have been cancelled since the Government’s border reopening announcement last week. The Government move to provide the business community “with some much-needed certainty around reconnecting New Zealand with the rest of the world” may arrive too late to save some operators, it fears. Chief Executive Paul Abbot says the tourism industry had been pressing for a date to work towards for borders reopening. Tourism made up 44 per cent of the region’s gross domestic product in 2020. “It has been an incredibly challenging time for the local business community. They have adapted considerably and restructured their business models to keep afloat and keep staff employed. While some have had to go into hibernation,
Williams on board
others have had to reluctantly reduce hours and staffing numbers to keep their business running. “They have persevered and done an admirable job handling various lockdowns and changes in Alert Levels, the short-lived Australian QFT arrangement, and the changes in operational requirements. However, I am concerned that the border reopening date is too far away and will come too late for some businesses,” says Mr Abbot. When international borders do reopen, all travellers will be required to self-isolate for seven days before being able to move around New Zealand. “The self-isolation requirement is likely to deter international travellers, particularly Australian visitors, who were Queenstown’s biggest international market pre-COVID. I expect the Australian Government will promote and incentivise domestic travel, so when faced with that or coming to New Zealand to self-
isolate for a week, the majority are likely to opt for domestic travel.” Destination Queenstown said since the announcement, there have been cancellations of Australian conference and business events for the region. That included several cancellations of confirmed and prospective business events adding up to a value of around $20m to $30m. These figures are expected to continue to rise and be much higher. “I urge the New Zealand Government to reconsider and remove the self-isolation requirement,” Paul Abbot said. “Our operators are already facing a bleak Christmas period, and this is likely to further add to their levels of stress and financial hardship. We will lose a big chunk of 2022 winter travel if this requirement is in place. We have already faced a lost 2020 winter and the majority of 2021 winter. “New Zealand needs tourism for the economy to rebound and recover. It is one of the main
Paul Abbot
pillars of our national economy and accounts for approximately 50% of full-time jobs in the region. By restoring this industry, we can get out of this limbo, return to contributing to the country’s tourism GDP and start moving forward.”
Laws in the clear Jason McKay Williams
Queenstown business leader Jason McKay Williams has joined the board of YoungTec – an organisation of young tourism professionals under 36 years who are members of Tourism Export Council companies. The YoungTec Board has also announced that Charlotte Brady, of Zorb Rotorua, will chair the organisation with Leanne Smith, WellingtonNZ, her deputy. Jason McKay Williams is the sales and marketing manager at indoor skydiving operation iFly in Queenstown. The YoungTec Board for 2022 is Brady, Smith, Amanda Linklater (RealNZ), Tiaana Anaru (Tourism New Zealand), Sam Holdich (Wētā Workshop, Unleashed), McKay Williams and Grace Mitchell (Active Adventures).
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Regional Council deputy chair Michael Laws has been cleared of an alleged Code of Conduct breach made by chief executive Sarah Gardner. It is understood the complaint related to comments made by Cr Laws published in the Otago Daily Times. The decision from independent investigator Steph Dyhrberg came a day after the council declined to release the contents of the complaint to the Wānaka Sun. The Sun asked the question because it wanted to know what Cr Laws was alleged to have done to warrant a code of conduct complaint. James Gribble, Administration Officer, Legal, outlined reasons for the refusal on the basis the request was made under the Official Information Act. The Sun responded that it did not make the request under the act – it simply asked some questions, one of which was: would the council provide us with a copy of the complaint? In apparent confirmation that there were two issues, Steph Dyberg said “both of the situations referred to in the complaint appear to originally stem from a perceived inadequacy of communication. This is something I would encourage the ORC to consider.”
She described some of Cr Laws’ comments as discourteous and inflammatory. “Concerns can be expressed professionally, without the need to publicly call a piece of work ‘crap’ or ‘bogus’,” she said. “As public figures, councillors have a platform on which they can express their views. ORC staff do not. It would not be unreasonable to expect councillors to be mindful of this and express their views in a considered manner.” She said Cr Laws made a number of submissions regarding the motive for the complaint as an attempt to shield staff from criticism of mistakes, but “I consider Ms Gardner held genuine concerns regarding staff welfare”. Sarah Gardner said she “fully” accepted” the outcome of the Code of Conduct investigation and appreciated that the investigators also noted the validity of her action to protect health and safety of staff in her organisation. “… it was important for me to test the code of conduct as the appropriate place to air these concerns and ensure these consequences and impacts to staff were, at the very least, thought about. I am satisfied this complaint achieved that. “I agree with the report where it notes
THURSDAY 02.12.21 - WEDNESDAY 08.12.21
Michael Laws
that Cr Laws’ words were discourteous and inflammatory, given I have raised several times aggressive incidents affecting my staff – again I felt I needed to manage this health and safety risk. “These people are staff, but they are also parents, children and siblings. They are part of our community. There is a place for forthright language, although not when it impacts people’s personal lives and wellbeing, on and off the job. I will continue to safeguard the health and safety of staff,” she said.
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New alpine videos online
PHOTO: Lake Wānaka Tourism
Gillespie Pass is on the latest video list.
Two walks in Mount Aspiring National Park are among seven which feature in walk-through style videos released on Monday. Gillespie Pass is a 58km 3-4 day loop for advanced trampers, the Rees-Dart circuit is a 4-5 day tramp. The seven new videos are produced by the NZ Mountain Safety Council and were filmed in backcountry locations across the country using innovative cinematography. They bring the total number which can be viewed to online to 19 and are safety-focused to preparing participants for the popular tracks. They spell out the fact that a walk like Gertrude Track may be mistaken as a simple day outing when in fact it is demanding and should only be attempted by trampers with a high level of
experience and fitness. Each new video highlights the track’s common risks and hazards, key decision-making points and offers guidance on walking times, clothing and gear items, weather factors and trackspecific advice. MSC spent 22 days filming, walking over 250km, passing by 18 backcountry huts all while carrying filming equipment including drones, video cameras, batteries and memory cards. The new videos are also filmed in the Kauaeranga Kauri Trail Pinnacles Walk (Coromandel), Tararua Southern Crossing (Wellington/Wairarapa), Alpine Route and Red Hills (Tasman/Marlborough), Mt Somers Tracks (Canterbury) and Copland Valley (Westland). The seven tracks were selected after MSC
analysis of safety data, revealing that each track had preventable safety incidents which could be reduced by targeted safety videos. The original 12 videos were released in 2018 and associated impact research won the ‘Insights Communication’ award at the 2021 Research Associations Effectiveness Awards. MSC Chief Executive Mike Daisley said the success of the first 12 videos made the decision to develop seven new ones straightforward. “The independent research undertaken to assess the impact of the first 12 videos very clearly showed that walkers and trampers who watch the videos before they set off are safer. “They have better awareness of the hazards, key decisions they will need to make, and we could see a profound improvement in their
safety-related behaviour changes,” he said. According to the research findings, 76% of people who watched the video said they would make changes to their plans because of it, and 90% of those people did. Also, 95% said they learned something new, with 82% saying their knowledge of hazards along the track had improved, and 85% said their overall understanding of the track had increased. In developing the seven new videos MSC worked with the Department of Conservation, police, search and rescue volunteers, MetService, the NZ Outdoor Instructors Association and track groups and organisations. Each video is available in the new Plan My Walk app, on MSC’s YouTube Channel, and will be added to the DoC and MetService websites.
Libraries to shelve fines
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A MUM
Getting a toddler to socially distance I often hear stories of parents being shamed in public for their children’s behaviour. Whether it be tantrums in the supermarket or high pitched squeals in the cafe, there is always someone who has something to say. On Friday, we took Tobias to a cafe to get some lunch after his swimming lesson. We were in the queue and he decided to stand on the two metre distancing circle on the floor. He then started to go “round and round” on the circle. He hopped from my sticker to the one in front. As adorable as it was, I knew I had to bring him back. Rather than pick him up, I politely asked him to come back and took his hand. Of course, like any 14 month old, he went straight back and repeated it all over again. While I saw it as a good teaching opportunity, the customers in front were not impressed. Understandably, they asked me to pick him up, which I did. I totally get why it could have been frustrating, especially with the Covid restrictions. Looking back, I probably should have picked him up to begin with. Unfortunately, this didn’t resolve the situation. The person then continued to make comments
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about me to the staff member. In the end, I just walked out. As someone who hates confrontation, this encounter took me by surprise. On top of feeling exhausted, I also felt humiliated and judged. I know I shouldn’t have walked out but I let my emotions take over. Socially distancing a toddler is a really difficult task and something I’m still trying to figure out. Children are too often deemed ‘naughty’ when in fact they’re just trying to find out how the world works. That encounter had me doubting my ability as a parent all day long. While I could sit here and justify my actions, I’m not going to. There will always be people who have an opinion and some people who will make their opinion heard. But, at the end of the day, it doesn’t really matter. I’m sure this is not the last time someone will make a comment about Toby’s behaviour or my ability to parent him. Hopefully one day I’ll be able to take those comments with a pinch of salt. For now, I’ll just rant about it. – By Daisy Watford
Wanaka library.
Library users are being offered a December amnesty on most fines. District Librarian Sue Gwilliam said this year marks the 10th anniversary of the ‘shelve your fine’ amnesty. Queenstown Lakes District Council staff are also encouraging those who are able to donate non-perishable food items, vouchers, and gifts for children and adults. Items received will be passed to Community Networks Wānaka and Happiness House Queenstown Community Support Centre for distribution. “The library team is passionate about supporting our library users and the wider
THURSDAY 02.12.21 - WEDNESDAY 08.12.21
PHOTO: Queenstown Lakes District Council
community in the lead up to Christmas. We’re mindful that the past 12 months have been tough for some so this year, instead of having to donate items to waive fines, we’re asking our patrons to give what they can, if they can,” Sue Gwilliam said. “We’ve always had a great response to this amnesty over the past 10 years and welcome a range of items, including treats and gifts anytime in December. Donations go to two fabulous local charities who do an amazing job supporting our communities throughout the year.” The amnesty does not cover charges for DVDs, lost or damaged books.
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Sun Views
THE WCB WORD
A regular update from Wānaka Community Board Chair, Barry Bruce
With summer well and truly here, it’s great to see businesses and families getting into the Christmas spirit already. I for one am looking forward to spending time with my family and enjoying the surrounds of Wānaka. It has been a hard year for many and we’re yet to see how the new traffic light system will impact us in the Upper Clutha community. Thanks to your efforts to be the most vaccinated district in the country, we’re on our way to enjoying some big summer events such as Rhythm & Alps, Challenge Wānaka, the Wānaka Rodeo and the A&P Show to name a few. I’d like to do a shout out to our health workers in the Southern District Health Board and WellSouth. This is in recognition of the great planning and preparation work they’ve been doing over the past months to develop a local plan to manage Covid-19 in our community and ensure people will get the care they need. I’d also like to confirm that your Wānaka Community Board are fully vaccinated in support of protecting the community we live and work in. If you are looking to get your free Covid-19 vaccine please go to bookmyvaccine.nz today. Summerdaze is a collection of events QLDC is running over the summer months to encourage residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors, celebrate their neighbourhood and spend time with one another. The first of these is the Summerdaze Games, a scavenger hunt game played via the 'GooseChase' app. There will be new missions to complete every day and you can earn points and win prizes. The Summerdaze Games have been made possible by the Te Hau Toka Southern Lakes Wellbeing Group and their Connecting Communities fund, which aims to promote and protect the social and mental wellbeing of people living in our wider district and help our communities be more resilient and stay well. I encourage our Upper Clutha community to sign up and play – who knows what new experiences you may discover in our own stunning backyard? The first game began on Wednesday so head to www.qldc.govt.nz/ summerdaze for details or simply download the GooseChase app and join our game by searching ‘Summerdaze Games'. Keep an eye on the QLDC Sport & Recreation Facebook page for all the latest news. I would like to celebrate the completion of three significant road and pathway projects undertaken by QLDC in Wānaka recently that will encourage walking and cycling and improve the safety of all road users. Two projects, including a shared pathway adjacent to Aubrey Road and sealing a 4km
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stretch of Ballantyne Road were finished when weather conditions allowed the final sections of seal to be laid effectively after winter. The third project, a footpath next to a section of Ballantyne Road closer to the town centre, was completed earlier in the year. I would also like to thank the community for their patience and co-operation during the projects. I’m sure the upgraded routes will bring significant community benefits in terms of active transport options and increased safety for many years to come. QLDC Libraries is celebrating the spirit of giving by clearing patrons’ overdue library fines throughout the month of December. I’m delighted to share that this year marks the 10 anniversary of the ‘shelve your fine’ amnesty which benefits both library users and the wider community. As an extra drop of Christmas cheer, staff are encouraging those who are able to give a little back by donating non-perishable food items, vouchers, and gifts for children and adults. All goods received by the Upper Clutha Libraries will be passed to Community Networks Wānaka for them to distribute to those in need. Our libraries team is mindful that the past twelve months have been tough for some this year, so instead of having to donate items to waive fines, they’re asking patrons to give what they can, if they can, this December. For more details, please visit codc-qldc.govt.nz or drop by your local branch. A reminder that several boats and trailers have been left on Eely Point Reserve in excess of the sign-posted restrictions. Please be aware that failure to remove any boat, trailer and other items from the reserve may incur a fine and could lead to their removal and disposal. Temporary overflow parking is only permitted in the reserve while you’re out on Lake Wānaka. Please also remember to keep yourselves and others safe out on the water, including wearing your life jackets, carrying waterproof communication, checking the marine weather and being a responsible skipper. Don’t forget to take sun cream, a hat and water too. We’ll continue to host our public drop-in sessions on the first Wednesday of the month for 2022, except for January. We look forward to catching up with Upper Clutha residents on February 2from noon to 1pm, so drop by the Wānaka Recreation Centre for a chat about issues big or small, with your elected members. Until then, I wish the Upper Clutha community a very enjoyable festive season and I hope you all get a well-deserved break with family and friends.
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Crimeline Kerin A Adrian Acting Sergeant, NZPD Bonjour Wānaka, here we are for another round up of what your team in blue have been up to this week in our spot of paradise. You may well have seen a few of us out and about on the roads again this past week as we continue to push Operation Deterrence and safer roads in our area. Speed, seatbelts, cell phone usage while driving as well as any poor driving behaviour is well in our sights. With the run up to Christmas well and truly on now we are also going to be rigorously enforcing the drink driving message so please expect to be stopped at any time, anywhere. This past week we have relieved a couple of people of their driver’s licences for 28 days, one for high level drink driving and the second for excess speed on the main highway. Another person may be seeking a 28-day refund on vehicle registration after having it impounded for driving while disqualified. Folks, we can’t stress this enough - if the court tells you cannot drive, don’t. On Tuesday along the Wānaka - Mount Aspiring Road we had a person try to compete with Jeff Bezos and Richard Branson’s space race by getting his vehicle airborne during a crash. First impressions would point to excessive speed before losing control. Fortunately, the driver survived and received some real airtime via the Rescue Helicopter ride to Dunedin. Remember your actions have consequences. Again, same old drum being beaten here, Facebook frauds are still there and catching people out. These can be small to substantial sums so please be wary. Also, there are any number of online scams going around as well as fraudulent activity all trying to get your hard-earned money for nothing. Be cyber safe and do everything you can to protect what’s yours as someone always wants to relieve you of it. And speaking of protecting what’s yours, it looks like we have some light-fingered vehicle thieves in town. We have had reports of two vehicles being entered and items of value stolen
THURSDAY 02.12.21 - WEDNESDAY 08.12.21
PHOTO: Wānaka Sun
while parked up, so please lock your vehicles whenever you are not in it. Opportunist thieves stole more equipment from a building site earlier in the week. About alcohol, a cold one after work is a great way to relax, but please remember your tolerance level. A male was taken home by Police after being found semi-conscious in the middle of the road by a member of the public. Being very drunk, he was very belligerent despite being helped - and was almost arrested. Please, if you are going into town or anywhere don’t ruin a great night out by getting so drunk you put yourself in danger. Make sure you have a plan on how to get home. Remember, the Police are not your Uber drivers. With the warmer weather coming we are already hearing the throb of the Harley Davidsons and other motorcycles in the area. Being a motorcycle mecca, we can expect to see more riding groups on the roads. Please take the time to look twice for motorcycles as they can blend into the scenery and let’s make sure everyone enjoys a great summer. If you are interested in joining the team at Wānaka Police we currently have a part time job as a Station Support Officer available. Please follow the link for more information about this roll https://bit.ly/3o6H5WJ Until next time Wānaka - only 24 sleeps till Christmas and 23 until men start Christmas shopping.
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PUBLIC NOTICE
N o t i c e b o a rd | P a p a P ā n u i TEMPORARY ALCOHOL RESTRICTIONS - QUEENSTOWN AND WĀNAKA In accordance with clause 1.11 of the Alcohol Restrictions in Public Places Bylaw 2018, and section 147B of the Local Government Act 2002, a 48 hour temporary alcohol restriction will be in place in the Queenstown and Wānaka Town Centres. The temporary restrictions will be in place from 8.00am Saturday 25 December to 6.00am Monday 27 December 2021. The ordinary alcohol restrictions still apply from 8.00pm on Friday 24 December until 8.00am on 25 December, and from 6.00am Monday 27 December 2021 until 6.00am Thursday 6 January 2022. The temporary alcohol restriction will include the following areas for Queenstown: a) the whole of the Lake Wakatipu foreshore area from the One Mile roundabout to Park Street including the Queenstown Gardens; b) the area from the foreshore to an outer boundary formed by and including Lake Esplanade, Lake Street, Man Street, Memorial Street, Stanley Street, Coronation Drive, Park Street to the Lake Wakatipu foreshore area directly adjacent to Queenstown Gardens, Boundary Street;
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a) the whole of the Lake Wānaka foreshore area from Sunrise Bay/Edgewater to Penrith Park b) the area from the foreshore to an outer boundary formed by and including Meadowstone Drive, Stone Street, Golf Course Road, Macpherson Street, State Highway 84 and Ardmore Street. Further information regarding the temporary alcohol restrictions can be found on the QLDC website at www.qldc. govt.nz/services/alcohol-licensing/alcohol-restrictions-in-public-places.
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Wanaka Pharmacy is your local pharmacy. We’re the big pharmacy at the top of Helwick Street - open from 8 to 6 Monday to Saturday and 10 to 6 on Sundays. Ph 443 8000. The Salvation Army Family Store is open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and Saturdays 9.30am to 4pm and most statutory holidays. We look forward to seeing you in our wonderful store.
Thanks to everyone who comes to Wastebusters to donate goods, shop and recycle. Your support helps us work for zero waste and a resourceful community.
WANTED The Salvation Army Family Store requires good quality household goods, if you can help this would be appreciated. Your donations can be dropped at 48 Helwick street or phone for a pick up 443 5068
NOTICE Cut rags (100% cotton) and drop cloths, only $7 for a big bag. Now in the yard container at Wastebusters. Open 9-5 seven days. Business Networking International. The Wanaka chapter of BNI meets weekly at 7am Tuesday morning. Great networking opportunity to grow your business. Contact Randal Dobbs for information 021 973 043 The Salvation Army Family Store is able to collect your donations, this service is available one day a week please phone the store on 443 5068 to make a booking.
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Private Bag 50072 | 47 Ardmore Street Wānaka Phone 03 443 0024 | www.qldc.govt.nz
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The temporary alcohol restriction will include the following areas for Wānaka:
Under Section 10A of the Dog Control Act 1996, notice is hereby given that a report describing Queenstown Lakes District Council’s dog control activities during the 2020/2021 financial year is now available on the Council’s website: www.qldc.govt.nz.
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WĀNAKA’S INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER ISSUE 1055
Free delivery to Wānaka, Cromwell and surrounds, PO boxes in Makarora, Cromwell, Haast, Wānaka, Albert Town and Hāwea. Also distributed to businesses in the Wānaka business district Average circulation: 15,000 weekly. Phone: 03 443 5252 • Fax: 03 443 5250 News Editor: Roy Pilott • 027 4500 115 editor@thewanakasun.co.nz News tips: editor@thewanakasun.co.nz Advertising: adrep@thewanakasun.co.nz Admin: Benn Ashford • 021 956 740 admin@thewanakasun.co.nz Mail: PO Box 697, Wānaka Deadlines: Display Advertising 4pm Friday prior to publication. marketing@thewanakasun.co.nz 03 443 5252 Classified Advertising 5pm Monday prior admin@thewanakasun.co.nz Subscriptions: $175 within NZ (including GST) per year. Overseas rates on request. Remittances to PO Box 697, Wānaka, NZ.
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CAMERA CLUB ‘IN FOCUS’
Getting it right at night There is something magical about night photography. A scene that looks unremarkable when shot during the day can be totally transformed after the sun goes down. Night photography is usually achieved with available light using long exposures, measured in seconds in order to give our camera sensor enough time to capture a desirable image. With rapid progress in the devilment of highersensitivity digital sensors, wide-aperture lenses and ever-increasing power of urban lighting, night photography is increasingly possible using available light. There are a huge array of subjects that can make great night photographs. These include, among others, the Moon, stars, star trails, city skylines, factories and industrial areas, fireworks; rock concerts, roads (particularly with moving cars where long exposures causes vehicle lights to streak across the image), lightening during thunderstorms , and buildings that are lit by moonlight. When choosing a camera for night shots the main thing we should look for is a high ISO number, a wide dynamic range and a large sensor. There has been huge advances in image
sensitivity in recent years. Not so long ago a maximum ISO 800 could be used to get good image results. Today an ISO of 3200+ can produce good images., particularly when used with sophisticated post-production software. Lots of cameras have these features so if we are using a good quality camera or a top of the range smart phone we should have no problem. The key to successful available light night photography lies in a long time exposure. Even with a high ISO number we will still need exposures often running into several seconds. When a long exposure is used more light is allowed into the camera permitting the details in our photo to be captured. Of course with such long exposures we are likely to get camera shake resulting in poor pictures. So use a tripod or something to stabilise our camera, preferably with a shutter-release cable. Most lenses are likely to be good for night photography. The main factor is finding a lens that lets in a lot of light so if possible try to choose and lens with an aperture of f1.8 or at least f2.8. With long exposures we have many creative options. This includes capturing motion.
Shooting Jpeg images is a good(ish) choice most of the time as we don’t have to worry about converting them into another format later for editing. However for night photography we are better off shooting in Raw as it offers a wide dynamic range. Although most night photographs are taken using available light, fun and creativity can be found in using artificial light, often referred to as ‘Painting with Light.’ This is achieved by using an off camera flash or a high powered torch and moving around a particular subject (for example a tree or a building) The results can be quite spectacular. An impressive night photograph is Gareth Hodges ‘Supermoon Rising’. Gareth has taken many spectacular night photographs and researched when the next supermoon would occur. He planned the shot a couples of month in advance. When the day arrived and the weather forecast was clear he drove three hours to Nugget Point in the Catlins to capture the moon as it rose at dusk with the lighthouse as his foreground. Gareth had tried this before in Wānaka without great success. So, he drove to the coast, hung around for an hour or so for the moon to rise before
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driving back to Wānaka. Gareth said it was tiring but rewarding chase. Indeed it was! Gareth took his picture using a Canon camera with an aperture of f9, shutter speed of 1/125th sec and ISO 1000. Wānaka Camera Club is dedicated to helping anyone interested in photography and we welcome anyone to join us. Our next meeting is the club’s prize giving on December 13, St John Rooms, Link Way. There is no meeting in January, the club will next meet on February 14.
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Happy Division 3 Volts batters Forbes Mackay and Harry Dickson.
Bowls a triple treat The outlook from the Wānaka Bowling Club is so incredible that it is easy to forget that one’s purpose there is to play bowls and not gaze at the golden hills. The spectators are very happy to sit under the shades while the players play end after end in the blazing sun looking for that winning opportunity. That was the setting for the Wānaka Bowling Club’s Women’s Triples Championship last week when 8 Triples teams battled for supremacy. With two wins, the early running was made by Delma Guy’s team of Jan Allen and Kate Norman but in the fourth round Marg Young’s team of Alice Turnbull and Jenny Sawyers bowled themselves into the finals. Meanwhile, Marilyn Steel’s team of ‘representatives’ - Rhonda Hurley and Amy Swain had quietly moved through to face Marg Young’s team in the final.
PHOTO: Gareth Hodges
SITUATION VACANT
Sunday switch With the Youth team winning by default on Friday night and heavy rain on Saturday leading to cricket cancellations or postponements, just one game featuring Luggate Albion was completed over the weekend. It featured the division three Volts and Flames, who won a close encounter. The inter-club fixture, switched to a sundrenched Sunday on a refurbished Pembroke Park saw the boys deliver an enthralling match. Winning the toss, the Volts elected to bat first, and while their innings was well 'bookended' through opener Thomas Maling (11) and Harry Dickson (16) near the tail, good, tight bowling lead by Hank Carnie (3/16) and Hamish Jamieson (2/5) restricted the chase to 118/8. The Flames innings produced very similar scoring to the Volts, however it was ultimately the exceptional middle order of Hamish (15) and John Quick (14) who swayed the match in favour of the Flames, and despite a doublewicket maiden by Harry Dickson to close out the match, 131/10 was enough for the Flames to gain the win.
Supermoon Rising.
This is an enterprising landscape scale conservation and human well-being project, aiming to provide both employment opportunities and game changing outcomes for biodiversity conservation in the region. We are seeking field crew to work predominantly in the Makarora and Matukituki catchments to: • Install new trap lines in the backcountry. • Maintain and clear existing and new traplines. • Construct traps. • Monitor biodiversity. • And do other general bio-diversity enhancement tasks Key attributes to succeed in this role: • A high level of fitness and the ability to carry heavy loads. • Being comfortable working both solo and as a small team for extended periods in the backcountry in variable weather conditions. • Commitment to conservation • The ability to stay overnight in the backcountry when required • Be familiar in use of a map and compass/GPS. • Commitment to excellent health & safety practices • Hold a current driver’s licence. • Willingness to handle dead rats. A current First Aid certificate and firearms licence would also be advantageous. Job descriptions on request. Applications close, Monday 6th December to: gsdworkforce@bungy.co.nz
ARE YOU OUR NEW EDITOR? A unique position in one of New Zealand’s most desirable communities has become available at The Wānaka Sun. We are looking for a full-time editor who can build on recent changes in our weekly publication and drive up readership on our on-line platform. The successful applicant will be a respected multi-skilled journalist with a reputation for outstanding communication, organisation and leadership – and someone comfortable with a camera and digital media. He or she will constantly update our website and produce a weekly print product filled with breaking news, well subbed supplied content, regular columns and great photography. Our new editor will, ideally, arrive with a sound knowledge of Wānaka.
From left, Amy Swain, Rhonda Hurley, Marilyn Steel scored a decisive win in the triples final.
After seven ends the game was even at 8-8 but, with successive wins on the next 5 ends Marilyn Steel’s team took the ascendancy at 178. A crushing 6 on the 13th end gave them an unassailable lead of 23-10. The game was conceded by Marg Young after 15 of 18 ends with the score at 24-11 to Marilyn Steel’s team.
Journalism will be our new editor’s life, not 9-to-5. The successful applicant will see this role as a long-term appointment. Organising content and building contacts will be two of the major strengths of our new editor who will work in the community. Our new editor will be a self-starter, highly motivated and flexible. Mentoring will be available if our new editor requires it.
If you are looking for a challenging role in a positive, friendly environment, plus the benefits of working in one of the fastest-growing regions in the country, apply today to admin@thewanakasun.co.nz with your CV and cover letter. Applicants must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand.
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PAGE 11
Sun Sport
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Bike racers crank it up Home grown riders shone in a top field during last weekend’s leg of the Crankworx Summer Series biking festival, and the event turned on some outstanding racing on the Matangi Station MTB park trails at Alexandra. Alexandra’s Bradley Harris won the Men’s Pro category after some tight racing ahead of Dan Booker (Australia) and Sam Blenkinsop (Christchurch). Eddie Adams in the Youth 15-16 category and part of the Matangi Station team was also outstanding. He finished top in his age group and recorded the sixth fastest time in the men’s field. Bradley Harris’ sister Hayley won the 13-16 female race and Robin Pieper placed fifth in the Pro-Female category. Second placed Pro Female Casey Brown, spent time growing up in Central Otago before moving to Canada where she took up the sport. Racers were tested in wet conditions on Saturday’s practice day, but Sunday turned on with sunshine and summer temperatures.
“We had to adapt for Covid but that didn’t stop the world class riding from going ahead,” Central Otago District Council Chief Executive, and avid cyclist Sanchia Jacobs said. Footage from the Crankworx racing is now being beamed globally, placing the Matangi Station MTB park tracks firmly on the mountain biking map.” All going to plan, the event will return to Alexandra in 2022 with the hope that the limitations imposed by Covid can be avoided and spectator audiences can be welcomed to watch the action in real life. The event is a collaboration of Queenstown Lakes and the Central Otago district councils, the Southern Lakes Regional Events Fund, Central Otago, Queenstown and Lake Wānaka regional tourism organisations and commercial bike parks and facilities. The region will get four weeks of events and activities. The next events are in Wānaka and Queenstown.
Kiwi kids take in the views
The views were on show, but the kea remained elusive when the Central Otago Lakes Kiwi Conservation Club held their first event for the summer on Sunday. The club invited members and their whanau to walk the Rob Roy Glacier track in the Mount Aspiring National Park. Four families and their children aged 5 -15 years old came together to spend a day enjoying the track through beech forest with stunning mountain and glacial vistas. This trip was postponed several times last year due to bad weather and it was great to
finally get to do it during one of the nicest days in recent weeks. All the children and adults were hoping to get a glimpse of the alpine parrots, the Kea, which unfortunately didn't make an appearance. However, watching an avalanche thundering down the mountain side was a spectacular sight for everyone, Chrissi Pettit said.. A couple of parents also reflected about their first visits to the Rob Roy Glacier when they were younger and how much the glacier has retreated during their lifetime. KCC’s philosophy is to connect tamariki and
Eddie Adams won the Youth 15-16 category and was sixth overall in the men’s section.
“We always knew bringing Crankworx to Central Otago was going to be pretty special, and it certainly proved to be just that,” Tourism Central Otago General Manager, Dylan Rushbrook said. their whanau with nature, to foster their love for the environment, to raise awareness of issues and encourage them to become kaitiaki (guardians) of the land. The Central Otago Lakes KCC recently welcomed Megan Sutherland as their new Coordinator alongside Chrissi Pettit. Megan and Chrissi are keen to offer more outdoor trips throughout the year and welcome new children and their families. For more details do to www.kcc.org.nz
PHOTO: Clint Rahan
Main results: Alexandra Super D: Pro Women, Louise Ferguson (GBR) 1, Casey Brown (CAN) 2, Jenna Hastings (NZL) 3. Pro Men, Bradley Harris (NZL) 1, Dan Booker (AUS) 2, Sam Blenkinsop (NZL) 3.
Rock with a view – Winifred McAllister, Nico Pettit, Lulu Pettit, Jack Sutherland, Adam Sutherland, Robbie Hale and Callum Hale took in some beautiful scenery.
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