Wanaka Sun | Edition 1016 | March 4 - 10 2021

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

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EDITION 1016

Wānaka A&P Show continues to set up

PHOTO: Kerri Back Photography

Billie Willson (15) won three saddle hunter pony classes at the annual Mt Benger A&P show in Roxburgh, She became the overall champion in this category, also winning the 1m and 1.10m in show jumping plus two rounds in 'round the ring' jumping. Read the story on page 16.

The Wānaka A&P Show has announced that it is continuing its setup for the 2021 Show – to be held on March 12-13 – assuming the South Island returns to Alert Level 1 next week.

Thanks to the generosity of trade exhibitors, sponsors and funders who pledged their support towards the set up costs the Show will incur over the next 10 days, the not-for-profit organisers have secured the finances required for the Board to allow the Show to continue as planned.

The Show is still unable to hold the event in Alert Level 2, so organisers do require the Government to reduce the alert level to Level 1 in order for them to operate.

Sustainable tourism – the ogre in the room?

Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

ourism is being portrayed as an “ogre” according to Queenstown Lakes District Mayor Jim Boult after the release of a report from Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment Simon Upton.

Boult was sceptical of the report saying: “I support anything reasonable that will assist and maintain our environment but tourism is painted fairly negatively in this report.

T

“That said, my view is that I don't think we will see a return of tourism like post-Covid. I think a significant portion of the world's long-haul airlines have been parked up and will never come back into use again.

“So, with airlines hanging on by their fingernails for financial survival I think it's highly unlikely we will see an increase in long haul airfares. And that will depress international travel.

“But maybe we will get the Nirvana we have wanted, which is fewer tourists with fatter wallets,” Boult said.

Upton is urging the Government to take advantage of the pause in international tourism to transform the sector into one with a substantially smaller environmental footprint.

Covid-19 has brought international tourism activity to a halt, threatening the livelihoods and commercial viability of many of the Queenstown Lakes tourism-related businesses.

But the discontinuity created by Covid-19 also offers an opportunity to address some of the longstanding environmental problems associated with New Zealand’s tourism industry, the report said.

PHOTO: Govt.co

Jacqui Dean: Let’s head closer to home for our holidays in 2021, as it will likely be some time before international tourists return to our shores.

PHOTO: QLDC

Mayor Jim Boult: Tourism is painted fairly negatively in this report.

Continued on page 3

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Northlake dust: residents rise up

PHOTOS: Supplied

Trish Popperwell: “I have to dust and vacuum every two days, I run a cloth over the bath every second day and it comes up with a fine brown dust, and I have a lung condition which has greatly worsened.”

Joanna Perry

newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

Queenstown Lakes District Council’s (QLDC) monitoring and enforcement team is investigating dust concerns around Northlake after complaints were made on Facebook - revealing to residents that they were not alone.

Steve and Trish Popperwell, who live above the Hidden Hills subdivision, said this was the first time it had come to their attention that they were “not the only ones” complaining about dust control at Northlake.

Since October 2016, the Popperwells had contacted QLDC many times but said no effective action had taken place.

As a result of dust clouds blowing from earthworks in parts of the 108 hectare subdivision site, residents in varying locations all reported similar difficulties dust in the air, covering windows and furniture, and even causing health issues.

“I have to dust and vacuum every two days, I run a cloth over the bath every second day and it comes up with a fine brown dust, and I have a lung condition which has greatly worsened over the last three years,” said Trish Popperwell.

“I would clean the toilet and then a day or two later there would be a layer of brown dust. I’m sure that if it ends up on the toilet seat, it would also end up in your lungs,” said former resident Esther Riess.

Residents believed that not enough was being done by the developer, Winton, to mitigate the dust issue - especially on weekends and after working hours - but they were often prevented from complaining by the Northlake no-objection clause.

“Dust mitigation is a joke. A water truck wets the roads but large areas are exposed to the wind,” said one resident.

Another referred to an “endless lack of care” when it came to dust control - with workers packing up on the weekends and leaving nothing in place.

“From our elevated viewpoint we occasionally see the water trucks watering the roadways, but those are not the areas that the dust is coming from. There are large areas of land which have been stripped bare of vegetation [where] no dust control is taking place,” said Popperwell.

Trish and Barry Andrews reported seeing a water tanker at the new earthworks site near Sticky Forest be “so ineffective that the wind was just blowing the water all over the tanker.”

A spokesperson for Northlake outlined the dust suppression methods used: eight sets of K lines (substantial flexi hose sprinklers) controlling stockpiles and a 10,000l water cart managing the areas in-between; a 10,000l water cart managing access and haul routes across the site with a 5,000l water cart focused on road construction areas; and a 16,000l water carrier in the earthworks area.

PHOTOS: Supplied

Northlake spokesperson: “We empathise with anyone affected by dust, which is why we are doing all things possible to mitigate the issue.”

The amount of sprinklers was to be doubled in the coming days. In addition, a polymer was being applied “as conditions allow,” which “forms a crust to the subgrade and stabilises areas that have been worked prior to topsoiling.”

“Areas are pre-soaked daily prior to works commencing. When wind increases to unacceptable levels, construction ceases until weather permits it to start again,” they said.

“QLDC impose and monitor conditions of resource consent, sign off on the environmental management plan (required prior to works starting) and receive monthly reports as well as specific reporting on any incidents as they arise. Council staff are onsite every week and as required in response to specific issues.”

The spokesperson said environmental factors presented challenges. “Wānaka is windy. The glacial till material that we are working with is notoriously difficult to manage. It has the consistency of flour and mobilises very easily.

Combined with an exposed site, recent high temperatures have created some challenges.

“As we move into cooler months, environmental management generally becomes more straightforward,” they said.

The last of the bulk earthworks at Northlake is estimated to finish in winter.

QLDC’s Jack Barlow confirmed that the monitoring and enforcement team checked resource consents periodically and followed up

on non-compliance when necessary.

“At all times the consent holder is required to implement environmental management controls to mitigate, avoid or remedy erosion which generates dust. These controls are checked during monitoring inspections and it is expected that consent holders adapt these controls as, and when, weather conditions indicate there is greater risk for erosion and sedimentation to take place,” he said.

But the Northlake spokesperson said that QLDC had recently “limited the amount of water available for dust control,” for reasons unknown.

They had asked for clarification. QLDC were contacted for further comment on this.

“We empathise with anyone affected by dust, which is why we are doing all things possible to mitigate the issue,” said the Northlake spokesperson.

“We are hopeful we can increase water use onsite soon – we are working with QLDC for ways of doing so. As a supplementary measure, we have just signed off the installation of an additional 120,000l tank farm to store additional water on site for dust mitigation purposes.”

QLDC’s next steps would be determined following the investigation.

Otago Regional Council (ORC) had been notified but on a site visit last month, manager compliance, Tami Sargeant, said they found no dust discharge.

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Electricity prices set to rise Temporary bus stop working but

not best solution Joanna Perry

newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

Wānaka’s household power bills are set to rise by $9.19 on April 1, up by 8.5 per cent in 2020.

Higher prices in Central Otago and Wānaka, compared with Dunedin, reflect the higher cost per customer of supplying power to parts of the network with fewer people, but many infrastructure assets. There are 56,000 customers connected in Dunedin on a network of 2,375 kilometres, whereas there are 22,000 customers on the 2,600 kilometreslong Central Otago network.

“The average monthly price changes (shown in the graph) are based on the average customer using 9000 units kw/h a year.

During the summer months when usage is lower the actual monthly bill increase might be slightly less than the amount predicted, and it could be slightly higher in winter,” a spokesperson for Aurora said.

Aurora Energy is raising lines charges in line with the Commerce Commission’s draft decision on Aurora’s plans to invest heavily in safety and reliability upgrades across its ageing network.

The 2021 prices are based on a draft decision from the Commerce Commission, Aurora’s regulatory body.

Of the $523 million over five years that the Commerce Commission would allow Aurora to spend, an investment programme worth $315.5 million will go towards stepping up a programme of power infrastructure upgrades, begun in 2017 with the replacement of poles, lines and building new substations.

Around a quarter of all poles have been reinforced or replaced, and the majority inspected. The work on poles, after years of underinvestment in the network, will steadily continue, Aurora said.

In 2020 Aurora spent $73.8 million on maintenance and improvements, and this year plans to spend a similar amount. New electricity infrastructure on the way includes pole and substation upgrades in Central Otago and Wānaka.

“Upgrading our power infrastructure is a ‘must do’ situation for a local lines company, and we thank customers for their patience as we go through this major programme of investment and renewal. Power must be safely and efficiently delivered - that’s a bottom line. And our plan will deliver this,” Aurora Energy Chief Executive Richard Fletcher said.

“We also understand affordability is a real issue and value for money is expected. This is an essential investment to ensure safe and reliable electricity supply throughout our network, including the growing regions of Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes.”

Final Commerce Commission approval on Aurora’s investment plans is not expected until March 31, and this could alter Monday’s announced prices for 2021. Once the final decision is known, Aurora’s board and management will reassess 2021 pricing and communicate any further changes, if required, as quickly as possible.

Sustainable tourism – the ogre in the room?

Continued from page 1 “There is broad support for the idea that protecting tourism livelihoods in the short term should not morph into a slow but inexorable return to the status quo in the long term,” Upton said.

QLDC Deputy Mayor Calum MacLeod agreed: “In 2019 New Zealand reached 4 million tourists. The maxim was summed up in one word

by Saatchi & Saatchi - the 100% Pure Campaign. This is as unsustainable as it is unacceptable. We have strived for value over volume for decades – and failed. The value must replace volume.”

Commissioner Upton presented a set of four proposals to combat some of the more pressing environmental challenges faced by tourism.

• Introduce a departure tax that reflects the environmental cost of flying internationally from New Zealand.

• Make any future central government funding for tourism infrastructure conditional on environmental criteria.

• Clarify the tools the Department of Conservation can use to address the loss of wildness at some of Aotearoa’s most spectacular natural attractions.

• Strengthen the existing standard for self-contained freedom camping.

“These proposals are not 100 per cent of the solution, but together, they just might make a difference,” Upton said.

Any transition will require real changes to business models and individual tourist behaviour.

Tourists – and the tourism businesses that serve them – should be required to pay for the cost of the environmental services they use, said Upton.

It was also essential that the wishes of communities, such as Central Lakes, are respected when decisions about new tourism developments are being considered.

Waitaki MP Jacqui PM said: “The suggestions raised by the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment are interesting, and like anything that starts a debate, are worth further consideration.

“The priority for the tourism sector though must be attracting domestic tourists to alleviate some of the hurt our local businesses are feeling right now.

“The Government also needs to recognise that small, tourism-focused businesses in Wānaka and around Central Otago are doing it incredibly tough as they face another year of anxiety and uncertainty, waiting for the border to re-open.

“These small, family-owned businesses like our cafes and motels reliant on tourism are struggling and we need to be supporting them in whatever way possible.

“Let’s head closer to home for our holidays in 2021, as it will likely be some time before international tourists return to our shores,” Dean said.

Lake Wānaka Tourism General Manager Tim Barke said: “The visitor industry in our region and throughout NZ is already well under way with transforming how we look at how it has been traditionally operated, and how it could look like in the future.

“When Covid-19 turned up, many businesses and members of the industry recognised it as an opportunity to review, reimagine, reset and re-plan to ensure we have an industry which: • Reflects, protects and continually enhances the lives and lifestyles of our communities, our people, our place and the things we treasure.

• Through the above, has the opportunity to have longevity and create increasing ongoing net benefit.

“We believe we live in the most special place in the world; we want to ensure that our people, and our place thrives now, and for future generation.”

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ER DEAL

Pat Deavoll

quickly after receiving my email and is having the problem assessed by engineers, but a solution has also to be found for the problem of vehicles exiting the car park onto Allison Avenue, Ivy Lane and Hebbard Court, which have zero visibility because vehicles parked on the roadside totally obscure visibility.

“The problem is going to remain after the apartment construction is complete because each unit has only one parking space which means if residents own two vehicles they have no choice but to park on the street, as do their visitor’s vehicles.”

Responding to safety concerns raised in January, Barlow said that the parking on Alison Avenue was temporary while construction was in process.

“The existing commercial activities will be retaining their existing parking within the site. All parking requirements for the completed development will be contained within the site.”

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PHOTO: Supplied

There are 56,000 customers connected in Dunedin on a network of 2,375 kilometres, whereas there are 22,000 customers on the 2,600 kilometres-long Central Otago network.

A makeshift bus stop being trialled in Albert Town to help schoolchildren get safely on and off the bus is “working but not the best solution,”according to Community Constable Deane Harbison.

A number of concerns have been raised about the safety of parallel parking along Alison Avenue while construction of the Riverside Residences is underway.

Most recently, Albert Town Community Association (ACTA) chairwoman Heather Thorne contacted Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) about school buses having to double park in the middle of the road.

“Albert Town Community Association has been concerned for some time about the parking congestion creating a lack of visibility outside the apartment building site,” said Thorne. “Vehicles are often parked on both sides of the street

causing major visibility issues.”

QLDC spokesperson Jack Barlow said a this was an “ongoing conversation between QLDC staff and Wānaka Community Board members: ultimately, the safety of the community is the top priority.”

“We will be taking a recommendation to the next Wānaka Community Board meeting to install a bus stop and nostopping lines in this location. The aim will be to address school bus and parking issues raised in this area.”

In the meantime, Cons. Harbison last week spoke with Go Bus and the construction manager at Riverside Residences to arrange for an area to be coned off for the bus, saving space for the bus to safely collect and drop off children, commencing this week.

“Having the coned-off area is good as a temporary solution and at least protects the school bus students in the interim,” said Thorne. “Jim Boult responded

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Re-vamp for Tarras Church nears completion

The Tarras Church during its refurbishment. The church was subsiding to the point of no return.

Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

The trustees of the Tarras Community Church Charitable Trust are pleased to report that the upgrade of the Tarras Church is nearly complete and she is now restored in all her glory.

Without the strengthening work the church would have continued to subside and may have

PHOTOS: Supplied

reached the point of no return. The future of the church is now bright, just in time for Centenary Celebrations later this year.

It has been a long journey since the Presbyterian church announced in June 2016 that the Tarras Church would be sold.

But attendees of a community meeting in February 2018 unanimously resolved to purchase, strengthen and restore the church.

The Tarras Church restored to her former glory. The Church will continue to be an important part of the Tarras community for many years to come.

The purchase of the church and the building works completed to date would not have been possible without a donation from a generous benefactor and grants from the Otago Community Trust and the Central Lakes Trust.

“We are very close to completing the building works and with the help of the community we hope to raise extra funds to

finish the remaining work,” said Felicity Hayman spokesperson for the Tarras Community Church Charitable Trust.

The trustees look forward to the church continuing to be an important part of the Tarras community and welcome the use of the church as a continued place of worship as well as a community facility, wedding venue and event space, Hayman said.

Mental Wellbeing Navigator appointed

PHOTO: Supplied

Lisa Gear takes on the role of Mental Wellbeing Navigator for the Central Lakes.

by many people and is the perceived key to fostering and maintaining mental health.

The forum and report were produced by a local volunteer group of mental health and wellbeing advocates.

Spokesperson Vanessa Van Uden said that they were united in their concern over the COVID-19-related impacts on locals and wanted to contribute to guiding the wider

recovery, resilience and future wellbeing of the Wakatipu community.

“We wanted to come together to share our thoughts and find a collective voice to highlight the challenges and potential solutions for the community, by the community,” Van Uden said.

“We were delighted with the turnout to the forum and are very grateful to the participants for their invaluable insights and ideas.”

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A community led report into mental health in our district comes on the back of a new appointment to the role of Mental Wellbeing Navigator for the Central Lakes.

Lisa Gear, a nurse skilled in family support and postnatal care takes on the role following a career in mental health, paediatric and neonatal nursing, and recently with Able Southern Family Support working with families with members with a mental health and/or addiction issue.

“I have seen first-hand the real challenges that some people can experience navigating their way to the services that are available to them. When this position was advertised, I could immediately see the value of it and was keen to make a difference in this area,” said Gear The Mental Wellbeing Navigator role was established by the Central-Lakes Wellbeing Recovery Group, which formed following the COVID-19 lockdown.

Central-Lakes Wellbeing Recovery Group Chair Adell Cox said the group was excited to have made an appointment to this new role.

“COVID-19 has challenged us all, and Central

Lakes has been specifically impacted by the disruption to our economy and international communities. We’ve all needed to work in different ways, and this includes the health and wellbeing sector. We are excited to have someone with Lisa’s experience join us in supporting this part of New Zealand through this challenging time in our history.”

The report released last Thursday by the Wakatipu Mental Health Forum advocates for better access and centralised information about mental health and wellbeing providers, more community education, increased resourcing, and stronger connections.

It details the results of a forum held in Queenstown on November 5, 2020 with the aim of providing a clear community voice to help inform future efforts to support the wellbeing of the Wakatipu community.

The findings of the forum highlight some key challenges: • There is a widely held view that local systems are under-resourced to deal with the current and future demands on mental health services.

• There is a strong desire for increased access to mental health education.

• Increased community connection is desired

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Household product cause of native fish kill Joanna Perry

newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

PHOTOS: Supplied

Otago Regional Council (ORC) have completed their investigation into why hundreds of native fish died in a spring fed creek near the Wānaka showgrounds in early February.

Touchstone Project leader Chris Arbuckle said he was alerted to the dead upland bullies and koaro by two locals, and immediately contacted Otago Regional Council (ORC) to investigate possible pollution.

Manager Compliance, Tami Sargeant, said the most likely source of the fish death was that an ammonia-based product was flushed down the drain.

“The source of ammonia in an urban environment is likely to be household use of cleaning products, septic systems or improper disposal of ammonia products, but we have been unable to identify how the ammonia-based household product entered the drain.

“The mud tanks have been cleared to prevent further pollution occurring, and the creek has been re-inspected and no more dead fish have been seen,” said Sargeant.

The creek is monitored regularly through a Touchstone and ORC water quality project, and a stormwater drain exiting from Landsdown Road has been the source of pollution there before.

“The drain has a history of people dumping whatever in it so it’s one we keep an eye on,” said Arbuckle. “Last year during the Wānaka A&P Show it was full of blue paint, flowing from the same suspect drain.”

“Most stormwater is not treated before it

This travelling lab ‘Lab in a box’ arrived at Holy Family Catholic School on Sunday night, containing high tech science equipment including virtual reality goggles, precision microscopes, three dimensional printers and liquid nitrogen. Last year, students Caroline Smith and Hunter Heath - two bright minds from the school’s Ignition Group - applied for a $3,500 gifted student award to bring something new to the group by helping transport the container to Wānaka. Holy Family have invited other local schools to share in this experience; a chemistry program will be delivered by two science facilitators from the Otago Museum during the week.

PHOTO: Chris Arbuckle

ORC Manager Compliance, Tami Sargeant, said the most likely source of the fish death was that an ammonia-based product was flushed down the drain.

drains into our local waterways, which is why it is important to only drain rain and avoid flushing things into the stormwater network that could be harmful for the environment,” said Sargeant.

Caring for our community

Winning bookmarks announced for children’s libraries Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

Over the summer break children from primary schools across the district were invited to take part in the Queenstown Lakes Libraries Summer Reading Challenge and Bookmark Competition.

The task: design a bookmark based on the theme ‘2020 was an adventure!’

Now, the wait is over. The winning entries from the district’s library branches have been chosen by lucky dip and are the official children’s QLDC libraries bookmarks for the entire year.

Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) children’s district librarian Shana Makuta said libraries staff were blown away by the 117 pieces of artwork received across the district and thanked all the competition participants for entering.

“All of the children put a lot of time and effort into their artwork. We are lucky the winners had to be chosen by lucky dip, because all the entries were gorgeous,” Makuta said.

The local Wānaka region winners and their libraries were: • Izzy, age 11, Hāwea • Alexia, age 8, Makarora • Chloe, age 7, Wānaka Bookmarks were numbered and picked at random through a computer-generated draw that

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PHOTO: Supplied

Children’s district librarian Shana Makuta stands outside Queenstown Library with the winning entries.

was witnessed by Queenstown librarians. Eight bookmarks were chosen to represent all eight of the district’s library branches.

Makuta encouraged students to keep a lookout for the printed bookmarks, as a mix of the winning entries was set to be delivered to local schools and libraries later this month.

“We are so excited to have these amazing entries on show and look forward to seeing what the 2022 competition will bring. Until then, keep reading and keep drawing.”

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Potential lake tsunami risk not yet well understood

PHOTO: Supplied

The film follows the 2019-20 season of the ‘Pinkies’ as they attempt to rebuild their dragon boat team - a sweep, a caller and 20 paddlers, sitting side-by-side in a 12-metre long boat.

The pinkies are back Joanna Perry

newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

An inspirational comedy about the Pink Dragons, a team of dragon-boating breast cancer survivors, is set to be released this month - featuring Wānaka locals across the board.

‘The Pinkies are Back’ was produced by filmmaker and storyteller, ex-local Lisa Burd, with music supervised by Lake Wānaka Sounz’s Lynne Christie. It follows the 2019-20 season of the ‘Pinkies’ as they attempt to rebuild their dragon boat team - a sweep, a caller and 20 paddlers, sitting side-by-side in a 12-metre long boat.

Burd said she followed the dragon boat community for a number of years, and the stars aligned when she met the Pink Dragons.

They were down to just seven members and worried they would fold when it was decided they would rise up again - recruiting and training seventeen new members, many of whom had never seen a paddle before.

Amongst their recruits was Wānaka local Yvonne Godfrey, who said she was fascinated by the “grit and gutsy attitude to life” of the Pink Dragons.

“These are ladies who have had breast cancer,

who now want to use dragon boat racing as a fabulous method of recovery. Both physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually, it helps women get in a better space,” said Godfrey.

Godfrey recalled that, during four months of intensive training, the team didn’t want their coach, Sooupu Perese, to treat them any differently to his other teams.

“He put us through the paces like you wouldn’t believe, there was no mercy,” she said.

The movie premiere in Auckland has been postponed to March 15 due to the latest Covid-19 alert level change.

There will be a fundraising screening in Wānaka on March 23 to raise money for the team to attend the International Breast Cancer Dragon Boating Championships in 2022 - hosted by New Zealand at Lake Karapiro - followed by a Q and A with three members of the team and the producer.

“The movie is about the unbreakable bond that we had as 22 women absolutely committed to bringing our best to the boat,” said Godfrey.

“People are going to come out feeling great that anything is possible, wherever you are in life,” added Burd.

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NIWA researchers on the water at Lake Wānaka in December 2019, using equipment to map sediments beneath the lakebed.

Joanna Perry

newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

Further work is needed to understand the scale and direction of a possible lake tsunami in the event of an earthquake, according to Otago Regional Council (ORC) manager natural hazards, Jean-Luc Payan.

A seismic survey commissioned in 2019 to map parts of the Lake Wānaka lakebed found further evidence for a potential earthquake fault, after a desk-based review identified the likely fault earlier that year.

The NW Cardrona fault was previously thought to have run northeast from the Cardrona Valley, through Albert Town to Hawea. But scientists now propose that the fault runs northwest past the foot of Mt Alpha, beneath part of the Wānaka township, and out under the lake.

NIWA used boomer seismic reflection surveying to image sediments beneath the lakebed.

Project leader Marine Geologist Dr Joshu Mountjoy said the team identified “large-scale folding of lake sediments, which suggests some deformation or compression of the ground surface immediately past the lakeshore in Roys Bay. The data do not unequivocally show there

is a major fault here, but the features identified mean it cannot be ruled out.”

Payan said, while the research was not conclusive, it raised the possibility, in the event of an earthquake, that a lake tsunami could be among the hazards faced by the township.

ORC was planning a range of work over the coming years around lake tsunamis in Otago, including modelling a lake tsunami scenario in Lake Wānaka to better understand the potential effects.

This would in turn influence the scope of an education and awareness campaign for the Wānaka community - but for now, education about the lake tsunami risk would be rolled into ORC’s existing flood awareness campaign.

There were currently no plans to erect tsunami warning signs.

Coastguard Wānaka Lakes president and secretary Jonathan Walmisley said he, like others, awaited more information on the potential risk but he was “not going to lose sleep” over it.

“The report uses words such as ‘possibility’, ‘could’, etc - on the other hand no possibility/no risk could be the outcome of further study,” he said.

“If we have an earthquake of sufficient strength etc a tsunami may be the least of what we have to worry about,” he added.

Wānaka music summit gets funding- all go!

Makarora Accommodation Pay for one night and get second night at half price.

“Escape to Wonderland Makarora Lodge this March” Just 45 minutes from Wanaka, Wonderland Makarora Lodge is a completely different world. Book your two night stay this March in any of our funky A Frame Chalets and receive your second night for half price.

• Funky a Frame Chalets to suit groups, couples, families and your budget.

• On the doorstep of the Mt Aspiring National Park

• A haven for native birds • Only 45 minutes from Wanaka • Stunning scenic drive

• Self-contained lodge with hi speed Wi-Fi available for groups • Surrounded by towering mountains • Ten minutes from the Blue Pools and lush native forest

For Enquiry and Bookings

Call 03 443 8372 or visit www.wonderlandlodge.nz PAGE 6

With over 80 per cent of registration places now taken, YAMI is looking to host around 180 people.

Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

With a grant confirmed from Central Lakes Trust, along with an array of Kiwi tutors, YAMI (Youth and Adults in the Music Industry) Sounz Summit is set to deliver a packed-out weekend of musical workshops, seminars and showcases in Wānaka, on May 8 and 9.

The Central Lakes Trust grant totalled over $22 000, which will allow Lake Wānaka SouNZ Incorporated to deliver an outstanding experience for participants, tutors and audiences.

“I didn’t realise I’d been holding my breath for so long,” said director Lynne Christie, on hearing the news of the grant in a phone call last week.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support.”

Tutors for the 2021 summit include Kiwi professionals from acts including Fat Freddy’s Drop, Shapeshifter, L.A.B and The Black Seeds.

Bella Kalolo and Deva Mahal guide the singers who wish to harmonise behind the legends on

THURSDAY 04.03.21 - WEDNESDAY 10.03.21

PHOTO: Supplied

stage, while Troy Kingi, Delaney Davidson and Kylie Price step up to mentor songwriters.

Participants (aged from ten years to “nearancient”) will work alongside the tutors during the weekend summit, with some taking to the stage at the final night’s public showcase.

Event producer, Josephine Gallagher was especially excited for when all the planning comes to life.

“You take five steps in the venue and go from hearing someone learning how to make epic beats, to another figuring out how to write that last lyric to their tune. Attendees and tutors alike leave with a renewed energy to create and support homegrown music.”

The not-for-profit music summit has received continued support from the NZ Music Commission, QLDC, Recorded Music NZ, and Lake Wānaka Tourism, cementing the summit’s place on the region’s cultural calendar.

YAMI is looking to host around 180 people over the weekend at Lake Wānaka Centre.

THE WĀNAKA SUN

thewanakasun.co.nz

Sun A&P Show

Our Place: supporting alpine waterways Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

An “experience” is often the adjective used to describe the Wānaka A&P Show – this is the place where people come from all over New Zealand to enjoy the scenery, family entertainment, agricultural and livestock events, and shopping and activities.

But a surprising by-product of the experience is the knowledge gained via the journey along the makeshift aisles of the Wānaka Showgrounds.

This isn’t just an event to experience, it’s an opportunity to learn about NZ’s agricultural roots, community and environment.

This year, the Show has kicked the education aspect up a notch with the introduction of the Our Place area, held in the former Life & Style Marquee.

Both fun and interactive, Our Place is a partnership between the Wānaka Show and WAI Wānaka, a non-profit set up to safeguard and improve the quality of the water in and around the broader Upper Clutha catchment.

The organisation is dedicated to sharing knowledge about alpine waterways and the impacts of human activity on water quality, said Katie Hart, Project Manager, Community Education for Wai Wānaka.

Our Place also highlights organisations such as SUCfree Wānaka, the Forest & Bird Kiwi Conservation Club, Mount Aspiring College Team Green, Grow Wānaka and the Otago Museum, as well as the work they do to protect the natural world and promote sustainability, said Hart.

Come and visit “OUR PLACE” for a fun and interactive experience.

• WAI Wānaka’s vision is to safeguard and enhance water quality, ecosystem function and biodiversity within the Upper Clutha basin.

• Te Kākano Aotearoa Trust is a communitybased native plant nursery that specialises

Winners announced for A&P Scholarship Programme Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz PHOTO: Supplied

Our Places – supporting organisations like Forest & Bird Kiwi Conservation Club.

Three young Upper Clutha locals have been selected to receive scholarships from the Wānaka in propagating plants of local origin and A&P Show and Upper Clutha A&P Society. uses these plants for localised native habitat The Upper Clutha A&P Scholarship Programme restoration. contributes a total of $4500 to help youth achieve • SUC Free Wānaka is a community led their dreams. There are three categories of the campaign to make Wānaka free of single-use programme; two are Open Tertiary scholarships cups by 2022. for students enrolled in full-time study related • Grow Wānaka is a community food hub that to the primary industries or another beneficial diverts food scraps from the landfill and uses them study (under 18 and over 18), and one aims to to build healthy soil and grow nutritious kai. assist a young person in completing a personal • WAO (We Are One) aims to educate, inspire and development course or sporting endeavour. enable New Zealand communities to accelerate Wānaka Show event manager Jane Stalker towards a carbon-zero, regenerative future. said the coveted scholarships were just another • Kiwi Conservation Club is Forest & Bird’s way the Show gives back to the Upper Clutha young members group, connecting Kiwi kids community each year. to New Zealand’s wildlife and wild places.

“The Wānaka Show is now one of the South • Team Green from Mount Aspiring College is Island’s largest lifestyle events and much of self-driven group of young students interested that success can be attributed to the incredible in taking action in the community on support from the people of the Upper Clutha, sustainability and environmental issues. therefore the Show has been gifting scholarships • Backyard Trapping is focused on Predator for 11 years to help some of these people achieve Trapping in Upper Clutha’s backyard. their own success,” Stalker said.

• Friends of Bullock Creek exists to protect, The scholarship selection criteria is based on restore and enhance the environment of leadership potential, academic merit, personal Bullock Creek from head waters to its entry qualities and commitment and it’s hoped that point into Lake Wānaka. each recipient will ultimately participate or pass • Otago Museum shares the natural, cultural on the benefits of their learning to the Upper and scientific stories of Otago, Aotearoa New Clutha A&P Society and the Wānaka Show.

Zealand and the world.

Former Lake Hāwea resident Rata Horan is the

recipient of the Open Tertiary: Over 18 category.

Horan is majoring in psychology and management with a Bachelor of Arts and Commerce degree at Otago University and has participated in the Wānaka Show home industry competitions since she was five years old.

“Although my course will take me out of the Upper Clutha region, Wānaka and Hawea will always be my home and a place I will come back to,” Horan says. “I hope that one day I can bring the skills I learn through this course back to Wānaka and help the community that has given me so much.”

Tarras equestrian Millicent Robinson, 17, is the recipient of the Open Tertiary: Under 18 scholarship. Robinson has competed in the equestrian events of the Wānaka Show for five years with great success, including winning the HorsePower and Speed in both 2018 and 2019.

The scholarship will assist Robinson to pursue a double degree in Law and Criminal Justice at the University of Canterbury this year.

Long-time Wānaka Show volunteer Neve Stalker, 16, has won the Personal Development Scholarship to join the Spirit of Adventure. Stalker has been helping out with various aspects of the Show for many years and wants to take on more responsibility with the execution of the annual event.

“I love working and contributing to the Wānaka community and I plan to use my newfound skills and push them back into the Show,” Stalker said.

“I am comfortable working in the background, on the front desk or amongst the animals and I’m ready to help where needed.”

Trusted Healthcare for Life

Wanaka Medical has stood at the heart of our community for 40 years, looking after generations of families with leading treatments and evidence-based care.

We understand that every body, and every life, is different.

Wanaka Medical, Trusted Healthcare for Life.

PHOTO: Supplied

The first community-led fundraiser for M!NT Charitable Trust took place on February 27, aimed at people with intellectual disabilities in the Upper Clutha region. Wānaka residents organised an afternoon of garden games, food and drink, followed by an entertaining live auction. The 150 person crowd was treated to a performance by the M!NT United Dance Crew. $40,000 was raised for M!NT’s weekly activity programme. This programme enables children, youth and adults to stay active, engaged and lead a meaningful life through participation in swimming, gym, yoga, music and dance classes.

THE WĀNAKA SUN

e: office@wanakamedical.co.nz

THURSDAY 04.03.21 - WEDNESDAY 10.03.21

t: (03) 443 0710

a: 23 Cardrona Valley Road, Wanaka

www.WanakaMedical.co.nz

PAGE 7

Sun Sport

thewanakasun.co.nz

Attention all trail riders – the Wānaka Trail Ride is go for 2021

A rider takes in the view on the backcountry Wānaka Trail Ride.

Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

A joint fundraiser for the Wānaka Primary School and Montessori Children's House Wānaka, the Wānaka Trail Ride has raised over $140,000 over the past five years, enabling the two schools to improve facilities and learning resources.

This much-loved South Island trail riding event is all set to go for its sixth year after riders missed out on 2020’s event because of Covid.

Young riders get ready to hit the trails at Wānaka Trail Ride.

Known locally as the ‘ANZAC ride’, Wānaka Trail Ride offers spectacular trail bike riding through private high country stations with a focus on family-friendly fun. The event will be held on March 27, 2021, with the course covering Deep Creek, Long Gully and Lindis Peak Stations.

“The Wānaka Trail Ride is an epic event, and it’s made possible because of the generosity of the station owners who open their gates to us each year,” said Phil Pendlebury, Wānaka Trail Ride’s

Teddy Bears Picnic

No more cheques

Bring your favourite, most loved teddy bear and come along to the Teddy Bears Picnic in Wānaka on the Wānaka Recreation Centre Grounds, this Saturday (6 March) from 11.00am -2.00pm. We’ll have whānau fun for all ages with live performances, story telling, bubbles, free sausage sizzle, food vendors, face painting, colouring in, magical characters, life sized bears, sports games, bouncy castle, horizontal bungy and more!

This event is free to attend.

From 1 June 2021, QLDC will no longer be accepting cheques for any type of payment at QLDC in line with banks no longer issuing them. We have plenty of other payment options that are faster, cheaper and more secure, including: direct debit payments, automatic payments, internet banking payments, via our website (with a credit card or Account2Account), in person (eftpos, credit card or cash), and over the phone.

Feedback on the draft Hāwea Domain Reserve Management Plan closes at 5.00pm this Sunday (7 March). If you haven’t already, please check out the draft document and share your thoughts at letstalk.qldc.govt.nz

Lakeside Road closure A friendly reminder that Lakeside Road is now closed to southbound traffic between the Marina and Ardmore Street to allow for the safe and timely construction of Stage Three of the Wānaka Lakefront Development Plan. This temporary closure will be in place 24 hours a day, during weekends, and is estimated to be in place until August 2021.

A detour is in place via Lismore Street and Hedditch Street. Please note: northbound traffic can still use Lakeside Road.

www.qldc.govt.nz PAGE 8

was a safety decision, as ATVs reach higher speeds than bikes and we wanted to reduce any risk for our younger riders. Quad bikes are allowed.

“Return riders will be excited to hear we’ve added some advanced tracks for expert riders.

This will make it possible to virtually do a full advanced loop from the top station.”

Tracks range from beginner trails through to expert single trails. A free peewee track will run throughout the day for junior riders.

More top finishes for Swim Club stars

The Council Word

Hāwea Domain RMP

Track Manager.

“And we are a 100 per cent volunteer-driven event. Thanks to our army of volunteers and marshalls, we can ensure the event runs smoothly and safely each year. Without them, this event would not happen.

“We’ve been working behind the scenes for months to put together the course and the health and safety procedures,” said Pendlebury.

“The main change this year is side-by-side vehicles (ATVs) will not be able to enter. This

PHOTOS: Tonia Kraakman Digital Marketing & Photography

Drop-in at the Rec Centre Head to Wānaka Rec Centre for two brand new activities this term. Table tennis for adults and kids – casual sessions Tuesdays 6.00 - 7.30pm ($5.00/person). Yoga for beginners/ intermediate – Tuesdays 7.00 - 8.00am and Fridays 1.00 - 2.00pm from 2 Feb ($10.00/ person). No need to book. For more info contact 03 443 9334 / wrc@qldc.govt.nz

PHOTO: Supplied

Kate Bennie followed up her great 2020 with another excellent meet, the highlight of which was a second place in the open 50 freestyle, plus a PB (and first place in her age group).

Joanna Perry

newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

Join us at the show!

We’ll have a stand at the Wānaka A&P Show on 12 -13 March. Come visit us at site J3 and chat about the Wānaka lakefront development, reducing your waste, mental health and wellbeing, emergency management, our Climate Action Plan and much more! You’ll also be able to browse the library book sale, learn from Dr. Compost and experience an earthquake simulation!

Wānaka Swim Club attended the South Island Championships in Invercargill last weekend.

Due to the Covid-19 level two restrictions, the final day of the competition was cancelled, but on Friday and Saturday the Wānaka swimmers had a great meet.

Kate Bennie followed up her great 2020 with another excellent meet, the highlight of which was a second place in the open 50 freestyle, plus a PB (and first place in her age group). She also placed third in the 100 backstroke and 100 freestyle.

Ben Silipo also had a great meet. Swimming mostly in butterfly events due to an injury, he

THURSDAY 04.03.21 - WEDNESDAY 10.03.21

placed third in the open 200 fly, and came first in his age group in both the 100 and 200 fly - the former with a two second PB. William Schurink and Lachlann MacTaggart also had a great meet, with some big PBs putting them ever closer to qualifying to attend nationals.

Schurink made his first qualifying time but needed one more to be able to attend the meet - an opportunity that was denied due to the cancellation of the final day of the championships. Head Coach Cameron Stanley hoped he would be able to do it at another competition in March.

The swimmers are next preparing for a competition in Dunedin in three weeks time before turning their attention to National Age Group Champs in Wellington in March.

THE WĀNAKA SUN

Sun Sport

thewanakasun.co.nz

Otago sportsman of the year takes on Ironman

Motatapu cancelled!

Joanna Perry

newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

The Motatapu bike ride, off-road marathon and ultra-run, to be held on March 6, is now off.

Management has been assessing the situation and working through multiple scenarios since the announcement by the Prime Minister on Saturday night on the revision of Alert Levels throughout New Zealand.

The team has had to decide to cancel the 2021 event.

“Our competitors are our top priority and their health and wellbeing have been the number one factor in this decision. We realise that this decision will affect all our athletes who have put in countless hours of training and appreciate and share their disappointment,” event management said.

“We want to be transparent in the reasonings behind this decision, so our fans can understand why we have had to make this hard call.

“Earlier in the year we had investigated running our event with groups of 100 and it is

Sad news. Motatapu is off for 2021!

PHOTO: Wānaka Sun

not feasible across our four different courses and their convergence to make sure these groups do not mix. We would need to remove all aid stations and this compromises athletes safety and thus our safety management system. We have a responsibility to manage the safety of everyone out on our racecourse, including our medics, volunteers and staff, as well as competitors,” management said.

“Postponement to Sunday 7 March or till a later date is not financially viable, with some key operational services unable to be changed as well as weather considerations for later dates and the safety of people out in the backcountry.”

Management said it would be offering a 60 per cent refund or a full transfer to the 2022 event, which would be on March 5 2022.

Hedley Wilton third in ‘hardcore’ South Island bike race

Hedley Wilton completed the 1,350km Tour Te Waipounamu in 6d 7h 50m.

Joanna Perry

newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

Wānaka local Hedley Wilton was the third cyclist to complete the inaugural Tour Te Waipounamu bikepacking race at the end of February, completing the 1,350km route in 6d 7h 50m.

The journey traversed the South Island high country from Cape Farewell in Golden Bay to Slope Point. Other Wānaka locals in the line up of 37 riders were Olly Manson (8d 7h 50m) and Matt Quirk (8d 8h 22m).

Wilton, who has ridden in events all over the world, such as the Tour Divide in North America, the Kiwi Brevet and the Great Southern Brevet, said the race was “easily the hardest” he had done, “both mentally and physically.”

“It was clear from the outset that it was never going to be an easy event and anyone signing up for it would have had to like an extreme challenge,” he said.

Nevertheless, he loved it.

“The hike-a-bikes were brutal both in terms of sucking morale and the physical demand on your body, but the rewards, particularly sunrises and sunsets, were priceless. The extreme physical tolls to get there and the solitude really enhanced the experience.”

Wilston said he knew he was somewhere in the top five riders, but had not been keeping an eye on the tracker because he wanted to “stick to [his] game plan.”

“I was very happy to finish and finish well (not

THE WĀNAKA SUN

Wānaka freeskier Craig Murray is taking a break from back-to-back winters due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. But, rather than languish by the lake, he’s decided to take on a brand new challenge - entering Ironman New Zealand 70.3 in Taupō.

The race, initially scheduled for March 6, features a 1.9km swim in the lake, a 90km bike and a 21.1km run through the town. Murray aims to complete the physical and mental challenge in under six hours.

2020 Otago Sportsman of the Year, Murray was on track to win the European Freeride World Tour in March last year before the final event was cancelled by the pandemic. This year, he made the difficult decision that travelling to compete held too many risks to his own health as well as other people’s.

He quickly started looking for a different challenge - “something that was quite unique and left-field and new for me” and signed up to Ironman 70.3 with less than two weeks to go before the event.

“Ironman always seemed like a really tough race and I’m interested in figuring out what it takes to get through and how you can push the body to complete it,” said Murray. “I haven’t really done any triathlons before, so it’s a new realm - especially the swimming part of it.”

Murray said everything about Ironman, from the format of the race day to the training and nutrition, was “completely strange” to him, but it was giving him something to focus on and put

PHOTO: Supplied

2020 Otago Sportsman of the Year, Murray was on track to win the European Freeride World Tour in March last year before the final event was cancelled by the pandemic.

his time and energy into, rather than “watching friends skiing deep snow on Instagram.”

He was using the event to raise $3,000 for Boys Alive, a charity supporting young men with a lack of male role models and behavioural or emotional difficulties, which is currently developing a new programme to help year 8 students transition into year 9.

“I am passionate about the difference this organisation is making,” said Murray. “The funds will be helping to get the ‘Boys Alive in schools’ programme off the ground.”

It was not yet confirmed whether the race would be postponed or cancelled due to the pandemic, but if the worst happened Murray was all set to run his own course right here in Wānaka. w w w.g ivealittle.co.nz/cause/sk ier-to compete-in-ironman.

PHOTO: Supplied

too broken), so to be third was just a bonus I wasn’t really expecting,” he said. “Many things have to fall into place to finish an event like this and you never really know when something could change your plan along the route. There were plenty of stronger riders in the race than me, I just had a great run.”

Fellow rider Quirk recalled that setting out on a “true adventure” with “fellow masochists” - and no previous years to guide strategy or give an idea of the time needed to complete it - was a real highlight.

Like Wilton, it was the hardest thing he’d done - “and that includes the Navad 1000 that crosses Switzerland, which has more height gain in less kms - with “so much bike dragging/carrying in remote places, and way less resupply and amenities.”

The bikers passed through many sections of private land, and Quirk said he was “surprised” by how many people knew about the event.

“At least by the time I came through, several small stores were up to play with stalking on the dot watching site, and sometimes greeted you by name as you came in. A few timely trail angels popped up at very welcome points with goodies when supplies were getting low.”

Founder Brian Alder said he created the challenge so riders could experience an immersive experience, far beyond what would be considered normal.

“That 32 of the 37 starters made it to this rocky outcrop that juts into the Southern Ocean says everything about their preparation, commitment and sense of adventure,” he said.

THURSDAY 04.03.21 - WEDNESDAY 10.03.21

PAGE 9

Sun News

New community van part of $400K grant round

thewanakasun.co.nz

INBRIEF

PHOTO: Boat International

The Auld Mug.

PHOTO: Supplied

(L to R) CLT’s Chief Executive Susan Finlay joins Cromwell Lion’s Club Committee Member, John Lister, Central Otago Motor Group Owner, Scott Billman and CLT’s Grants Advisor, Martin Smith with the new Hyundai IMAX which arrived last week.

Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

Central Lakes Trust (CLT) has granted over $400K to 16 charitable organisations in the first grants meeting this calendar year.

Cromwell Lions Club are set to upgrade the local community van with funding from the Trust.

For 12 years Cromwell Lions Club alongside Central Otago Motor Group, has been providing a safe transport option for small community groups to travel to various sports, cultural and other community events.

The community van was originally purchased with assistance from CLT and a sponsorship agreement with Central Otago Motor Group.

The van is booked through the Central Otago Motor Group.

“All groups are required to pay for is the fuel to top it up and make sure they give it a clean after their use,” said Cromwell Lions Club President, Russell Fowler.

The remaining costs are picked up by the Motor Group, Cromwell Tyres and the Lions Club.

Approximately 20 community groups use the van on an average of eight times a month to transport groups around.

“It’s been a great community asset that we were eager to see continue. It’s been utilised by so many groups over the past 12 years. A big shout out to Hyundai who in the past have given us demo’s but this year offered us a new vehicle with six year’s insurance cover,” Fowler said.

In addition to this grant, bowling clubs benefit from funds to refurbish clubrooms in Cromwell and replace the outdoor artificial turf in Wānaka.

Dunstan Arm Rowing Club was granted funds towards a new safety boat to meet current safety requirements.

Committee Member, Nathan McLeod said, “The boat is being built, with the hull being worked on now. The new boat enables us to not only maintain the safety of the rowers during training and regatta's but also the coaching and support staff. Additional buoyancy and railing help extract rowers from the water and provides sun protection for coaches and support staff. It couldn’t have come at a better time as although we will keep the old boat as a second safety boat, it had gearbox issues and is off the water.”

Grants for musical endeavours also featured highly this round with a grant for a Wakatipu Music Festival and the Yami Sounz Summitt 2021. The Wakatipu Music Festival, aimed at NZ-based musicians, is an initiative to replace the Michael Hill International Violin Competition.

“COVID-19 has meant that the 20th anniversary edition of the violin competition is cancelled. However, to support the affected stakeholders particularly in Queenstown, presenting a new project will partially fill the void of opportunity and activity caused by the cancellation of the international event and allow us to get to know the local music scene much better,” says Michael Hill, International Violin Charitable Trust.

Teddy Bears picnic A Teddy Bear's Picnic will be held in Wānaka at the Wānaka Rec Centre on Saturday 10th April and will be outdoors if the weather is fine.

This is a free event for the community which will include live entertainment from local performers, dance school and music.

There will be inflatables with a bouncy castle and horizontal Bungy, storytime areas, food vendors, fire engine, face painting, characters, bubbles, a free BBQ, community groups, prizes and more.

The event is part of the post covid community recovery initiative and will be a wonderful way of getting the community together.

It would be great to get a big turn out because it will be a super special event and lots of fun.

Richard Wingfield, custodian of the Auld Mug, reflects…

“Richard Wingfield knows a thing or two about sailing, ships and boats. He is the custodian of the America’s Cup, fondly known as the Auld Mug. Of course Wingfield is aware of the cup’s repute but even he was taken aback with a 700 strong haka when he and the team, touring the trophy, walked through the double doors into the hall of Mt Aspiring College - something he says he will never forget.”

(Mairangi Bay Village News).

Warbirds all go for 2022 Aircraft will once again be flying across the Wānaka skies at the Warbirds Over Wānaka International Airshow during Easter 2022.

This Airshow will be particularly special as it will help to celebrate the 85th Anniversary of the Royal New Zealand Air Force.

While the 2020 Airshow was cancelled due to New Zealand being in Covid-19 lockdown, the 2022 event is already shaping up to be a

PHOTO: Wastebusters

PAGE 10

THURSDAY 04.03.21 - WEDNESDAY 10.03.21

must see for all aviation enthusiasts with tickets going on sale later this month (March 15th).

General Manager, Ed Taylor, said following confirmation of the RNZAF’s presence, discussions are already underway with a number of international air forces about displaying at Warbirds 2022.

“It’s hoped a number of air forces will be in attendance. Warbirds Over Wānaka has hosted the air forces of the United States, Australia and France over recent years. Their displays add an international wow factor the crowds really appreciate and we’re always grateful for the support they give our event,” said Taylor.

Snowboxx and Rhythm & Alps join forces Snowboxx Festival (Europe's biggest winter festival) is joining forces with Rhythm & Alps for its New Zealand debut in 2021. The event which is taking place at Treble Cone/Cardrona will feature an all-Aotearoa line-up, so it isn't reliant on international acts and borders being open, with the first round of artists revealed soon.

Lake Dunstan Trail public opening rescheduled Lake Dunstan Cycling and Walking Trail scheduled to open at the end of March, is to be delayed by additional rock face work required to complete the last 100 metre stretch of the trail.

Stephen Jeffery, Chair of Central Otago Queenstown Trail Network Trust said, “We anticipated opening the trail close to the end of March. Unfortunately, to err on the side of caution, we will have a few extra weeks delay to complete additional work required on the last remaining 30 metres of rock face located at Double Duck Bluff.

“So instead of the end of March we are looking at late-April,” he said. An exact date will be confirmed as soon as possible.

Wānaka Preschool celebrated reflecting at the Enviroschools’ GreenGold stage on Saturday as part of the early learning centre’s 30 year anniversary gala. Enviroschools is a nationwide programme supported by Toimata Foundation, founding partner Te Mauri Tau, and a large network of regional partners. Wastebusters Enviroschools facilitators have been working with the preschool for more than a decade and were delighted they achieved this significant stage.

Pictured: Wastebusters Gina Dempster, Wānaka Preschool lead teacher Katrina Brewer & centre manager Lo Stevenson, Wastebusters Enviroschools facilitator Damian Foster & Councillor Calum Macleod.

THE WĀNAKA SUN

Sun Environment

thewanakasun.co.nz

NATURE by Forest and Bird

Peat wetlands more powerful than tropical forests For World Wetlands Day on February 2, Forest & Bird released regional data to show wetlands were our secret resource in working to mitigate the effects of climate change.

"The Government needs to introduce a plan to protect and recharge Aotearoa’s wetlands," said Forest & Bird freshwater advocate Annabeth Cohen.

“Only about 10 per cent of our historic wetlands remain, and the few wetlands left are dwindling every day to make room for pasture or urban development.

“If we save every remaining wetland, and double what we’ve got, there could be great gains for our wellbeing and for our climate goals.

“Peat wetlands in particular are super carbon sinks. They hold twice as much carbon as all of the world’s forests combined, yet cover only about 3 per cent of earth’s land surface.

“The majority of the drained peatland in Aotearoa is used for intensive farming. Dried peatland emits carbon and is responsible for up to 6 per cent of agricultural emissions in New Zealand.

“Wetlands must be wet for them to do their magic. We could save as much as two million tonnes of carbon dioxide every year if we re-wet the peat,” said Cohen.

“Research shows peat wetlands have a net cooling effect in the long term. They absorb huge amounts of carbon, which is a long-lasting greenhouse gas, and permanently store it away.

“Coastal wetlands such as mangroves, salt

marshes, and sea grasses are also excellent at sequestering carbon, known as blue carbon. On average, they can trap carbon 35-57 times faster than tropical forests.

“Sadly, the Ministry for the Environment has yet to map the historic extent of our coastal wetlands. This means we don’t know how much has been lost and where the opportunity for coastal protection and rejuvenation are.

“We know wetlands are good at attracting and feeding our birdlife, provide excellent nurseries for our endangered native fish, clean and filter our water, and are the most cost-effective solution to flood and drought protection.

“The list of wetland benefits is long. We call on the Government to develop a national wetland restoration plan. We have a goal for swimmable rivers, so where is the ambitious goal for our climate-protecting, lifesaving wetlands?

“New Zealand’s zero carbon future will depend on restored peat and coastal wetlands, and we expect to see these types of nature-based solutions in the Adaptation Plan required by the Zero Carbon Act,” said Cohen.

Karen Denyer from National Wetland Trust said growing crops on wet soils was one opportunity for expanding our wetlands.

"Re-wetting peatland and growing wettolerant crops is already gaining traction overseas. Tangata whenua have a long history of sustainably harvesting from wetlands, so there’s a

Peat wetlands in particular are super carbon sinks.

lot of traditional knowledge to guide us. Imagine if Aotearoa could rewet a portion of its peatlands, and grow species such as raupō or harakeke for high-end, eco-friendly products. It's a win-win for land owners and the climate," said Denyer.

Key peat wetland statistic • Historically, nearly 207,861 hectares of peat wetlands have been drained and degraded.

• The majority of missing peat wetlands (158,149 ha. or 73 per cent) are currently classified as High Producing Exotic Grassland, which is used for intensive agriculture.

PHOTO: Steve Attenwood

• The lack of water on these former wetland soils is responsible for producing up to 6% of New Zealand’s Agricultural emissions.

Regional peatland losses West Coast 2,112 Canterbury 3,215 Otago 3,975 Southland 17,914 Total destroyed peatland used for intensive agriculture 158,149 Percentage of destroyed peatland used for intensive agriculture 73 %

Two environmental funds open for application Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

PHOTO: Wastebusters

Dr Compost Easy Ways to Compost has tips for composting newbies who are just getting started, as well as for people who may need some troubleshooting advice on how to deal with smell or rodents.

Dr Compost’s tips for composting How can you feed your plants, boost the microbial activity in your soil and reduce your carbon footprint? By composting.

Dr Compost Easy Ways to Compost has tips for composting newbies who are just getting started, as well as for people who may need some trouble-shooting advice on how to deal with smell or rodents.

The workshop which is being held on next Wednesday (March 30) at the St John Rooms, also covers traditional composting, Bokashi bins and worm farms so attendees can figure out which composting method suits them best.

The Dr Compost home-composting project is funded by Queenstown Lakes District Council and delivered by Wastebusters to reduce organic waste in landfill. When food scraps and green waste break down in the landfill they release methane, a nasty climate change gas.

Tickets are free but must be booked through eventbrite or on the Dr Compost Facebook page.

THE WĀNAKA SUN

Two environmental funds are now open for application within the Queenstown Lakes District.

Funding applications for the Queenstown Lakes District Council’s (QLDC) 2021 Waste Minimisation Community Fund opened on Monday.

The fund, which is in its third year, offers up to $60,000 to support waste minimisation initiatives throughout the Queenstown Lakes District. This is made up of two categories: up to $50,000 is available for community action and behaviour change projects, and up to $10,000 towards commercial waste minimisation.

“Last year’s funding recipients have led the charge and shown what can be achieved at a community level. Initiatives like the Hāwea Grove Project and Wastebusters & One New Zealand have already made a huge contribution to our vision of becoming a zero-waste district,” QLDC

General Manager Property and Infrastructure Peter Hansby said.

The goal of the 2021 fund is to support initiatives that complement and enhance existing programmes, address gaps, create new opportunities, and encourage community participation in waste minimisation,” Hansby said.

The fund is open to individuals, community groups, businesses, Iwi/Māori organisations and education providers within the Queenstown Lakes District.

Also, the Otago Regional Council’s (ORC) community grants fund, the ECO Fund, is open for applications until March 20.

The Environment Community Otago (ECO) fund supports community-led projects that seek to protect, enhance and promote Otago’s environment. There is $125,000 of contestable funding available in this round.

“A point of difference of the ECO Fund is that it’s available to support both administration costs

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and on the ground costs,” said ORC Biodiversity Partnership Lead, Euan Hind.

“The fund recognises there is a lot of work that needs to be done in the background to get boots on the ground.”

The ECO Fund is one of the key ways ORC works with the community to achieve environmental outcomes in Otago. The fund emphasizes projects that align with ORC’s work programmes.

The ECO Fund team encourages anyone with a project idea, big or small, to get in touch to discuss eligibility and how they can best put their application together.

Central Otago

LET'S DANCE!!!

Learn - boundaries and consent Breathe - regulate your nervous system Dance - pleasure, power, and freedom Wanaka Community Hub, 27th March

PHOTO: Pixabay

Two environmental funds are now open for applicants from the Queenstown Lakes District.

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THURSDAY 04.03.21 - WEDNESDAY 10.03.21

Running Out Of Room - Part 3 So, after letting you all know of the intentions of Councils to recycle cemeteries—and the public reaction—what is the trend worldwide? Countries such as U.K., South Africa and Australia have faced resistance and accusations that religious and cultural traditions are being violated. Whereas other cities all over the world (Singapore, Germany, Belguim, etc) offer graves for 20 years—then they can be rented by the family for as long as they are prepared to pay, or the deceased is moved to a mass grave deeper in the ground. It’s a system that is the norm in many parts of the world! From the feedback we have received this is not popular!

Heather and Graham Stephen Office hours: 8:30am – 5pm centralotagofunerals@hotmail.co.nz 16 Ennis Street, Alexandra 9320 0800 263 863 or 03 448 8642

PAGE 11

Sun Views

Crimeline

thewanakasun.co.nz

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Sustainable tourism – is it time to set an upper limit?

PHOTO: Wānaka Sun

S Sean Hurley

Senior Constable, NZPD

I hope you all enjoyed the week that was and are looking forward to autumn whilst still enjoying the produce of our summer gardens. As we move into autumn it is a good time to ensure our vehicles are ready for the more changeable conditions ahead.

I have noted during my vehicle stops in the last weeks many vehicles that are long overdue for the warrant of fitness checks. Please book your vehicles in and get this done.

We have also moved back to alert level 2 concerning Covid 19: please ensure you follow the requirements to ensure we keep this virus limited and at bay until the safety of a vaccine is more readily available to all.

The week of policing has been varied with three persons apprehended with very high levels of excess breath alcohol and one person issued a fine and demerit points for a lower level drink driving. Think of the safety of others and plan not to drive before you consume any alcohol.

On Tuesday we received a report of theft from a car at Fantails Falls; please ensure you not to leave

valuables visible in parked unattended vehicles.

Wednesday Police dealt with a crash on the control structure at Lake Häwea.

Thursday saw Police deal with a water rescue from the Häwea river. The kayaker survived as he had wisely chosen to wear a life jacket. His kayak however was last seen heading downstream at a rapid rate of knots. We also apprehended a male for dangerous driving after he chose to drive a drift trike around the streets of Wānaka. Thank you to the members of the public who reported the erratic driving. The trike has been impounded.

Saturday saw a dead sheep delivered to the Police Station; please do not deliver these anymore as we do not book them into lost property. Leave them near where you find them and we will arrange to have them removed by the persons responsible. Just write down or photograph the ear tag number. At least the flies followed the sheep away from the station.

Concerning other lost property our Watchhouse Officers would like to reunite two different hearing aids with their owners, so if you have lost such an item please come and check with us.

Keep well and try to obey the law and not let the fun you are having interfere with the peace of others.

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

I have said this before. The response is how? What metrics do we use? You can’t just stop people coming? Well Covid 19 (C19) certainly showed us that we can limit inbound tourism.

Firstly it is important to acknowledge there is a lot of our community doing it hard.

The question is - what happens after the borders reopen? International tourism will struggle. It will however re-bound.

For this discussion can I make the following assumptions?

• International Tourism will return as a significant focus of New Zealand’s economic outlook.

• The New Zealand Government will turn to tourism dollars to fill its C19 depleted coffers.

• New Zealand is a desirable destination – probably more so after the C19 experience.

• New Zealand is - and will remain - reliant on long-haul aviation.

Before C19, New Zealand experienced considerable growth in international visitors as well as growing numbers of New Zealanders travelling. This led to a significant increase in tourism-related aviation emissions.

The Commissioner for the Environment recently released two reports urging the Government to take advantage of the current pause in international tourism to transform the tourism sector into one with a substantially smaller environmental footprint.

One report suggests four proposals: • Introduce a departure tax that reflects the environmental cost of flying.

• Make any future central government funding for tourism infrastructure conditional on environmental criteria.

• Clarify and strengthen the tools the Department of Conservation can use to address the loss of wildness.

• Strengthen the existing standard for self-contained freedom camping.

The last three are low hanging fruit. They will probably be adopted. The first - a departure tax that reflects the environmental cost of flying - is being challenged by the Minister for Tourism –as well as the National Tourism Agencies.

We must push for the government to adopt all of these recommendations. This is vital because; • Climate Change is our ‘Nuclear Free’ moment.

• Departure taxes are commonplace in Europe.

• The adoption of a departure tax will enhance New Zealand’s credibility and standing.

• It could become a vital lever to set an upper limit for inbound tourism The Tourism Industry’s rejection is based on an old lie - any increase in airfares will kill demand.

Recent research by Tourism NZ relating to consumer perceptions of travel and climate change states that 75 per cent of consumers expect government and businesses to drive environmental initiatives.

Such efforts could provide tangible economic benefits. Eg - potential visitors are 60 per cent more likely to actively consider visiting if they perceive New Zealand as being more sustainable than competing destinations.

Last year New Zealand reached 4 million tourists. The maxim was summed up in one word by Saatchi & Saatchi - the 100% Pure Campaign. This is as unsustainable as it is unacceptable. We have strived for value over volume for decades – and failed.

Value must replace volume.

Establishing and maintaining an upper limit is essential. Now is our best opportunity.

The introduction of a departure tax would help to reduce aviation emissions by constraining visitor demand.

Also, the tax would provide a source of revenue that could be directed towards mitigating aviation emissions.

New Zealan could and should take a leadership role in galvanising countries wishing to promote a higher level of ambition on international aviation emissions.

Concerning our district moving forward the economic recovery and the immediate needs present a challenge.

• We must take a holistic approach - this cannot be simple economics.

• This cannot be a swim to the bottom.

• This must take the threat of climate change into account.

• This must prioritise value over volume.

• This must involve as many facets of our community as possible.

• This demands to be a positive discussion.

Calum MacLeod

THURSDAY 04.03.21 - WEDNESDAY 10.03.21

THE WĀNAKA SUN

Sun Views

thewanakasun.co.nz

EDITORIAL

Carpe Diem-seize the day Pat Deavoll

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

Today I heard about a friend of mine who at 55 has had a major stroke, requiring life-saving surgery to his brain. He now has a 4” hole in his skull, is paralysed down one side and unable to speak. He will be in the hospital for many months, and in Covid ridden the United Kingdom, unable to have visitors. This has shocked me to my core.

Malcolm is my oldest expedition mountaineering companion. We have made the first ascents of mountains in India (twice), Western China, Pakistan and Afghanistan. He is the fittest most determined person I have ever known. He is a psychologist with the NHS, and a leader in his field.

I am appalled that something like this should befall such a fit, vibrant, motivator like Malcolm. As I said, it has shaken me up.

But it makes you think, if this could happen to Malcolm, it could happen to anyone and we must every one of us, seize the day while we can.

My mountaineering career came to an end in 2017. I had had a knee replacement and an ankle replacement in the past few years but was determined to keep my mountaineering career going as long as possible. An expedition to Pakistan in 2014 not long after my ankle replacement was successful but very difficult and I came back to New Zealand in need of another ankle operation to remedy the damage I had done on the climb.

By 2016 I felt ready for another expedition and headed off to Afghanistan. Again we were successful on the mountain in question but I began to think the writing was on the wall and that I couldn't keep going much longer. In 2017, climbing two massive peaks in Tajikistan I struggled from the bottom to the top of both of them, successful, but in such pain, and felt such liability to my climbing partner that I

PHOTO: Pat Deavoll

... the loneliness, the worry of dropping the bike and not being able to pick it up, breaking down, the sand, the heat.

decided, at 58, to give mountaineering away.

But what to do to fill the gap. I was quite depressed for a while – I'd been mountaineering for 40 years. Then I decided to give adventure motorcycling a try and spent the next year learning how to ride a motorcycle off-road. Farm tracks, shingle roads, river beds...anything that was off the tarmac. I was/ am hopeless and took more spills than I can count. But I was determined to take my shonky skills somewhere exciting, and so headed off to the Australian outback in 2019. The 14,000km trip tested me in every way possible... the loneliness, the worry of dropping the bike and not being able to pick it up, breaking down, the sand, the heat. But boy! When I got home, did I feel amazing! That as a 60-year-old biddy I had survived the Australian outback on a motorbike far too big for me, in conditions I never thought I’d be able to ride.

A few days ago the Te Wai Pounamu mountain bike race finished- 1200kms from the top to toe of the South Island. My 59-year-old sister went in the race and placed THIRD of the women.

I followed her every inch of the way (those websites that track competitors) and when she finished at Slope Point, after riding through the night, I have never felt so proud.

Life is so short- if a stroke can happen to Malcolm it can happen to any of us. Carpe Diem- seize the day!

Sponsored by

CAMERA CLUB ‘IN FOCUS’

Branchburn Valley.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

The 40km/hr speed limit: a plea

Most of the recent to and fro regarding speed limits has focused on Beacon Point Road, especially after #11second-gate.

Perhaps I could bring the attention of Council members to the main road that runs along the other side of the lake, particularly those who may have never driven, walked or ridden along it.

Mount Aspiring Road is for the first two kilometres after it leaves town one of the widest roads in the district, with generous margins along most of it and additional runoff areas.

Visibility is generally excellent – it is at this point a proper “main road”.

I survived somebody driving the wrong way around the Sargood Drive roundabout and also turned the Studholme Road corner to find a car driving towards me on my side of the road, both while the speed limit was 50km/h.

A path runs alongside the road and this is where children walk or cycle. It is only adult road cyclists and a few mountain bikers who use the road.

After the Bills Way turnoff the speed limit increases to 70km/h and after another 400 metres or so to 100km/h.

It is just after this that the road narrows considerably (yes, you couldn’t make this up) and there is a downhill run to the Ruby Island turnoff.

When the “consultation” took place a few of us suggested the 70km/h limit be extended to beyond Ruby Island Road, given the number of people who were caught by surprise by the turnoff and the lack of a turning lane.

In addition some of the newer driveways on the main road have limited visibility.

There have been some spectacular accidents on this part of the road and I don’t know how many close shaves.

It never occurred to us that the 50km/h limit would be reduced. Please reinstate it.

Marc Simmonds

THE WĀNAKA SUN

Summer is over but for many autumn is the most photogenic season, once green trees turn into hundreds of shades of red, orange, brown, and yellow.

Autumn features misty mornings and magnificent sunrises and sunsets.

As the richly coloured leaves fall from the trees they carpet the landscape with a glorious tapestry of colours.

The Golden Hour – the time directly around sunrise and around sunset - is a favourite time for photographers as the light is wonderfully soft and warm.

Shoot with the sun behind you to light up the landscape; to the side to capture elongated shadows, or into the sun for dramatic sunrises.

As the main emphasis of most autumn pictures is the changing colours of leaves, find locations that not only have a wealth of trees but a range of different plant life to create a wide range of tones to your image.

We should also consider urban areas where trees are a feature or parks that will also show us people (contrived or otherwise) kicking leaves into the air giving a sense of fun and movement to our shot.

Autumn weather is the ideal condition for creating mist which is at its most atmospheric around sunrise when our photo will take on an eerie, otherworldly feeling.

Try to find an elevated position so that the subject is seen poking out of the mist.

A great autumn photo needs a strong

THURSDAY 04.03.21 - WEDNESDAY 10.03.21

PHOTO: Marg Hurley

composition and the easiest (but not only) way of achieving this is to follow The Rule of Thirds.

The principle is to divide the image into thirds both horizontally and vertically.

The result is a series of lines that cross our image which can then be used as a guide for our composition.

It is usually best to place the horizon on the two horizontal lines and have the foreground interest in line with one of the vertical lines.

This may sound complicated but thankfully most modern cameras and mobiles will offer assistance by providing these dividing lines on the on-screen viewfinder so that we can ensure that everything is lined up in the best position.

Leading lines can also be beneficial as they help guide the viewer eye through the image.

A great example of an autumn photograph is Marg Hurley's Branchburn Valley.

The location, near Cardrona, was photographed using a Canon EOS60D camera set at an aperture of f10; shutter speed 1/200th second, and a focal length of 55mm. Marg’s image was well received by the Club’s judge who commented: “The scenery has lots of appeal with the autumn colours against the rugged forms of the mountains…”

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 March 8, 7.30 pm St John’s Room, Link Way. – By Bob Moore

PAGE 13

Sun Classifieds

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These positions are full time. The successful applicant would be part of a busy, friendly team and receive a great remuneration package.

All your local water blasting needs: House soft washing, patios, decks and fences Surface cleaning for; driveways, pathways, tiles & stone Moss and Lichen treatment from rooftops to tennis courts Exterior Window cleaning

Call now for a no-obligation, free quote 027 371 4035

Phone Murray 027 443 5400

EVERY LETTERBOX EVERY THURSDAY Is your Wānaka Sun delivered every Thursday?

If not, email your address to admin@thewanakasun.co.nz or phone us on 03 443 5252

NOTICES

THANKS

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 Wānaka 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.

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.

SERVICES Wānaka Pharmacy is your local pharmacy.

We’re the big pharmacy at the top of Helwick Street - open from 8am until 6pm 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.

WANTED The Salvation Army Family Store requires a volunteer to assist our van driver Danny on a Thursday with pick-ups and deliveries. If this sounds like you, please pop into the store for some more information. Lifting of furniture will be required.

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.

STORAGE Clean, dry, safe storage available now.

Ezystor Self Storage, 12 Gordon Road, Wānaka, Ph: 021 242 1630.

SUN TEAM WĀNAKA’S INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER ISSUE 1016

Free delivery to Wānaka, Cromwell and surrounds, PO boxes in Makarora, Cromwell, Haast, Wānaka, Albert Town and Hāwea.

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

Phone: 03 443 5252 • Fax: 03 443 5250 Editor: Pat Deavoll • 0274 487 741 editor@thewanakasun.co.nz Journalist: Joanna Perry • 021 736 740 newsdesk@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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PAGE 14

THURSDAY 04.03.21 - WEDNESDAY 10.03.21

THE WĀNAKA SUN

Sun Sport / Classifieds

thewanakasun.co.nz

SITUATION VACANT

SUPPORT WORKER – WANAKA BASED Part-time with minimum of 20 hours per week.

Looking for rewarding and purposeful work in an organisation that truly recognises the value of all employees?

We offer:  A positive team environment, opportunities for connection and sharing skills  Comprehensive training for people seeking a career change  Freedom and responsibility in the workplace  The option to increase hours to full-time, if desired, as we continue to grow

PHOTO: Filippo Maddalin

Campbell Wright at the IBU Biathlon World Championships.

Snowsports round-up Joanna Perry

newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

It’s been a big week for our Queenstown Lakes athletes.

Campbell Wright finished in 75th in the men’s 10km Sprint Competition at the IBU Biathlon World Championships held in Pokljuka, Slovenia on February 23.

Qualification for the pursuit and 20km event is only open to the top 60, so this marked the end of his first IBU World Championships. Wright, who is considered incredibly young for the sport at just 18-years-old, missed three shots at the range and had to ski three 25 second penalty loops - without which he would have finished just +01.30.7 behind winner Martin Ponsiluoma (SWE).

Wright now has more recovery time before the FIS World X-Country Championships, in which he is vying for a spot at the 2022 Beijing Olympics.

Over in the US, Miguel Porteous won gold in the freeski halfpipe at the Aspen stop of the US Revolution tour on February 24 when he laced together a highly technical first run and received a score of 93.75, making him untouchable for the rest of the event.

“I had a cool day; we’ve been training in this pipe in Aspen for a while now and today was perfect,” he said. “The run that I landed today was arguably better than the runs I have landed in World Cups and X Games competitions.”

Fellow Wānaka skier Ben Harrington finished in 5th place.

Queenstown snowboarder Cool Wakushima won gold in the Big Air event by 17 points on February 27. This was Wakushima’s second medal

We want you if you have: • High levels of motivation • The ability to share skills and experience • Problem solving skills in a challenging work environment • The ability to work under pressure • Assertiveness and are able to use your initiative • A desire to make a difference Community Care Trust works in partnership with adults and youth in Central Otago, Southland and Dunedin who need some support in their lives to achieve their goals. This role involves working alongside people to ensure they live the life they want, that they achieve their dreams and aspirations and that they are a valued and contributing person within their community.

We have been awarded silver accreditation against the Investors in People Standard, demonstrating our commitment to realising the potential of our employees.

If you have a genuine belief in the philosophy of “full inclusion” for people with disabilities and wish to be part of a team environment, then please apply.

Our organisation has a strong commitment to safeguarding children and any employees will be vetted to a level appropriate to the role for which they have applied.

Applicants must have: • Current First Aid Certificate (or be willing to complete one at your own cost) • Full current NZ Driver License and be eligible to work in New Zealand.

• Must be able to work shift work and weekend work.

Successful applicants will receive training and orientation, professional supervision and ongoing opportunities for further professional development including both internal and external training.

PHOTO: Snow Sports NZ

“The run that I landed today was arguably better than the runs I have landed in World Cups and X Games competitions.”

at the Aspen Open stop of the US Revolution tour – she also claimed the silver medal in slopestyle on February 25 . She was now looking forward to the World Champs in Aspen from March 7 - 16.

Finally, Alice Robinson achieved her career best top 10 Super G World Cup result, finishing in 10th place in the Super G World Cup held in Italy on March 1, the final Super G World Cup of the 2021 season.

Robinson finished in a time of 1:16:15 and was just +1.54 seconds behind the winner.

“I have really been trying hard to get in there this season,” she said. “To finish it off with a top 10 is great, especially from my bib number 41. It’s a great position for me to be in for next season so I am really, really happy.”

PUBLIC NOTICE

Starting rate is $20.50 - $25.50 dependent on qualifications and/or experience.

If you have any questions regarding this position, please email hr@cct.org.nz Apply via our website www.cct.org.nz/get-involved/work-for-us Applications close at 12 pm on Tuesday 9th March 2021

PUBLIC NOTICE BUSY AT WĀNAKA POOL 22 FEBRUARY – 19 MARCH

Local primary schools are visiting Wānaka Recreation Centre for their school swimming and water safety programme.

From 22 February until Friday 19 March there’ll be very limited public access to the learners’ pool between 9.00am-2.00pm every weekday except Thursdays and Fridays when half the pool will be free.

Other pool users may wish to schedule their visits to the learners’ pool around these times.

Four lanes in the lap pool will remain free for public swimming between 9.00am– 2.00pm weekdays during this period.

Many thanks for your co-operation while our local children learn these essential life skills.

N o t i c e b o a rd | P a p a P ā n u i

For more info please contact (03) 443 9334 | wrc@qldc.govt.nz

CLOSURE OF STREETS TO ORDINARY VEHICULAR TRAFFIC PURSUANT TO THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1974, notice is hereby given that the following roads will be closed to ordinary vehicular traffic for the purpose of holding the annual Wānaka A & P Show 2021: Road to be Closed:

McDougall Street from Ardmore Street to Brownston Street

Period of Closure:

0600 Wednesday 10 March 2021 to 1200 Sunday 14 March 2021

WWW.THEWANAKASUN.CO.NZ

Roads to be Closed: Brownston Street from McDougall Street to Dungarvon Street and McDougall Street from Upton Street to Brownston Street (Note: access to this area will be available for the Community Centre, residents, campground users, trade exhibitors and for disabled parking) Period of Closure:

0600 to 2000 on Friday 12 March 2021 and Saturday 13 March 2021

Note: Park ‘n’ Ride will be available from the reserved land across from the Medical Centre on Cardrona Valley Road running every 15 minutes to and from the show entry gate from 8.00am-5.30pm It will be an offence under the above regulations for any person otherwise than under authority of an authorised permit to use the roads for ordinary vehicular traffic during the period of closure.

Part-time permanent position Aspiring, Wanaka

Positions, within Enliven - the South’s largest provider of aged residential care. Working 5 shifts per fortnight with casual work available.

Shifts are 9:30am-6pm.

Applications close 17 March For further information, please contact Madeleine Esdaile, Manager of Aspiring on 03 555 3010 Visit www.psotago.org.nz/jobs for details and to apply

www.psotago.org.nz/jobs

LIKE NEWS, SHARE STORIES

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

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PAGE 15

Sun Sport

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Local riders’ amazing effort at Mt Benger

PHOTO: Kerri Back Photography

Heidi Kendrick (12) had three wins in the pony showing classes and became reserve champion in this category. Heidi also won the 80cm show jumping.

The annual Mt Benger A&P show in Roxburgh took place on February 20, with sunny weather and great attendance in the equestrian part of the day. Many local riders from the Hāwea and Cromwell Pony Clubs participated with amazing results.

15-year-old Billie Willson (Cromwell Pony Club), had three wins in the saddle hunter pony showing classes and was the overall champion in

PHOTO: Supplied

Three local riders in the top three in 75cm show jumping. Lily Cousins (13) first (middle), Lucy Lidell (13) second (left) and Jessie Dye (13) third (right).

that category.

For Hāwea Pony Club, 13-year-old Lucy Liddell had three wins in the same event. 12-year-old Heidi Kendrick had three wins in pony showing and became the reserve champion, while 8-yearold Isla Taylor won in the first ridden class, along with 7-year-old Boh Fairmaid, who also won a class in first ridden.

There were also great results in show jumping,

with Lily Cousins (13) winning 75cm pony, Heidi Kendrick winning 80cm pony and Sophie Emma Fountain (12) winning 90cm pony.

Billie Willson won the 1m and 1.10m classes.

13-year-old Bella Edwards had two second places and a third in 90cm and 1m and was second in the open pony ‘round the ring’, a separate category where jumps form a circular course around the arena.

Billie Willson won two ‘round the ring’ events

and Lucy Liddell won the pony novice ‘round the ring’.

Other local riders who did well were Jessie Dye (13), who had a second and third place in show jumping 65cm and 75cm, along with Zoe Fountain (10), Alisa Webster (6) and Aryn Henderson (13), who also placed and received ribbons as a result.

– By Jeanette Cousins

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