Fancy filmmaking?
INSIDE THIS WEEK Views: Page 17 Jobs: Page 19 Sport: Page 20
This could be for you!
PAGE 14
Pork Pie Charity Run Zooms past!
PAGE 7 THUR 01.04.21 - WED 07.04.21
EDITION 1020
DELIVERED AND FREE
PHOTO: Graeme Murray
Braden Currie: “I wanted this win and I needed this win and that’s what I brought to the start line.
Fourth time lucky for Braden Currie Joanna Perry
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
ānaka multisport legend Braden Currie
W beat out his closest competition, Kyle
Smith, to win IRONMAN New Zealand in Taupō last weekend. The world’s longest-running IRONMAN, the triathlon on March 27 (postponed from earlier
this month due to the rise in Covid-19 alert levels) saw thousands of supporters line the streets to cheer on the competitors over a 3.8km swim in the lake, 180km cycle and 42.2km run. Currie and Taupō-based Smith had already gone head-to-head three times this season, with Smith besting Currie each time. Currie finished 4 minutes behind Smith at the Rotorua Suffer event last December, 10 seconds behind at the
Tauranga Half in January, and 13 seconds behind at Challenge Wānaka in February. But Currie’s moment finally arrived on Saturday when he crossed the finish line in first place with a time of 7:57:12 - ahead of Mike Phillips at 08:06:38 and Smith at 08:08:53, placing third in his IRONMAN debut. Smith was ahead during the swim leg, but all three athletes came tightly together during the cycle, with
Currie pushing strongly ahead into the final run. Currie said he wanted to avoid a “side by side battle” and not give Phillips and Smith a chance to run with him. “I looked at my watch early in the run and was running a 3:05/km pace and at that point I knew I was going to have a really good run, but I told myself I should probably slow down a bit,” said Currie. Continued on page 3
Sun News
thewanakasun.co.nz
Environmental issue front of table for ORC LTP Pat Deavoll
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
An “urgent interest” in environmental issues has directed the Otago Regional Council (ORC) Draft Long Term Plan (LTP) that was adopted last Thursday. The plan will be subject to a consultation period before it can be finalised and adopted in June. ORC Chair Andrew Noone said the LTP sets out an “ambitious program of improvements” to meet the growing expectations for Otago’s environmental management. “We’ve got a lot of work to do as a Council. The requirements on regional councils around the country are increasing as the government and our communities take a more urgent interest in environmental issues. We’ve set out an ambitious work programme in the Draft LTP to respond to these expectations.” Noone said the big areas of improvement were in science and monitoring, policy, and regulation. “We’re investing in more comprehensive and detailed environmental monitoring and science, to give us the best information basis for managing land, water and biodiversity in Otago. We’re ramping up our policy work on a new Land and Water Regional Plan that sets out the rules and policies to protect Otago’s environmental values, in line with national direction. And we’re improving our regulatory function, which includes more capacity for consenting and compliance. These are all core functions which, over the long-term, have really important benefits for Otago’s environment.” The LTP proposes a total rates increase for Otago of 47.5 per cent in year one, comprising a 73.2 per cent general rates increase ($80 per household on average) and a 29.3 per cent targeted rates increase.
PHOTO: NewZealand.com
The requirements on regional councils around the country are increasing as the government and our communities take a more urgent interest in environmental issues.
“We know the first questions from our ratepayers when we bring an Annual Plan or LTP to the table are, ‘What will it cost?’ and ‘What will it pay for?’,” Noone said. “We recognise the proposed rates increase is a big step up from where Otago rates have been in the past. Unfortunately, those low rates are no longer sustainable with the work programme in front of us. Catching up with the 0 per cent general rates rise that we absorbed last year during Covid-19 lockdown, as well as the extra resource taken on in science and
regulation this year, meant a 35 per cent total rates increase before we even began to consider the next ten years.” The consultation period will run from Friday, 9 April, to Sunday, 9 May, during which the public can have their say on the Draft LTP. A consultation document will be in mailboxes during that period, while submissions can also be made online via the ORC website. “This is a big year for ORC, and it’s a big LTP, so we really encourage people to engage with the proposals and let us know what you think. The
consultation document sets out three key areas where we are asking for feedback. These are our biosecurity service levels and funding, and how we balance the overall LTP budget. You can also comment on any other aspect of the LTP. “The consultation period starts in just over two weeks and runs for a month, so there’s plenty of time to consider the options and make a submission. Look out for more information in your letterbox soon, and do take the opportunity to have your say – we’d love to have your input,” Noone said.
Council reps meet over 3-waters reform Pat Deavoll
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
About 65 Council representatives met in Wānaka on March 24 to confer on how the Government planned to bring water, wastewater and stormwater systems up to the required standard. This was expected to be costly and the Government intended to take some functions away from councils and create its own water entities. Early modelling had shown that up to $50 billion more would be needed in the next 30 years to maintain and replace the asset base. Clutha Mayor Bryan Cadogan said
the reform process was moving very quickly and the proposed reforms were fast-moving. “But I’m not sure councils can communicate effectively with ratepayers about what is happening,” he said. Gore Mayor Tracy Hicks said reform was in the offing but that councils needed a clear path ahead, and needed it quickly. "There is a lot to be revealed about what this might look like," he said. "But it’s becoming clearer that reform is here and we need to get involved and understand the implications for our communities." Steering committee chairman
Brian Hanna said there was a growing appreciation for the necessary reform. Communities were facing financial challenges in getting infrastructure up to a sound standard, he said. "The status quo won’t be able to deliver." It was expected that some council assets would be transferred to water entities, creating economies of scale. Hanna said councils needed reassurance that staff expertise would not be lost amid the changes. A proposal would be presented to the Cabinet in May and councils would need to decide by the end of the year if they wanted to opt out of the reform process.
PHOTO: Supplied
Clutha Mayor Bryan Cadogan: The reform process is moving very quickly…
EASTER SALE
May as well look forward to hibernating. Sleepyhead Supportapedic Limited Edition Queen Bed
9067613
With winter edging towards us, you may as well embrace it. Exclusive to Smiths City, this new limited edition bed will certainly help. The latest coil technology will enhance your comfort and support, while reducing partner disturbance. See you next spring.
$1979 $4959 was
60% off*
Offers valid from Wednesday 31st March - Tuesday 6th April 2021, while stocks last, unless otherwise stated. Some products on display in selected stores only – please call 0800 764 847 to check availability. Personal shoppers only. *Apple, selected computers, game consoles, gift cards, clearance items and some promotional items are not available in conjunction with interest free offers. Flooring available on a maximum of 18 months interest free. Exclusions, fees, terms, conditions, and credit criteria apply. Available in-store only. Equal instalment amounts include one-off booking fee of $45.00, annual fees of $45.00 p.a. and security registration fee of $8.05, and exclude insurance. Current interest rate of 23.95% applies to any unpaid balance after expiry of (any) interest free period. See in-store or visit smithscity.co.nz/interest-free for details.
PAGE 2
THURSDAY 01.04.21 - WEDNESDAY 07.04.21
THE WĀNAKA SUN
Sun News
thewanakasun.co.nz
Penrith ‘Castle on the Hill’ Fourth time lucky for Braden Currie for judicial review
PHOTO: Wānaka Sun
Back in November the roof was partially done but still breached the skyline.
Pat Deavoll
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
A judicial review into an 8.9 metre, Briar Bank Drive “castle on the hill” which breaches a maximum planning rule height of 7 metres will proceed on June 2 in the Invercargill High Court. Thirty residents from the surrounding area signed a petition for a judicial review of the now $8 million - $10 million build, and some put funds towards this.The judicial review was lodged because of what residents saw as significant rule breaches. A spokesperson for the group managed the original Penrith subdivision with sections first on the market in 1997. “Part of that process and getting approval for it was that there were two Penrith zones agreed. One was residential of 1000 square metres and the other was a large lot of 3000 square metres minimum. Besides, there was an area identified in conjunction with the Wānaka Environmental Society and the QLDC to protect the established views – the visual amenity line – if you were inside that line certain rules applied and if you were outside it, it was less restrictive “If you were inside, the key rules were that you couldn’t break the skyline; earthworks and native tree removal were very restricted, and the house couldn’t be seen from within 50m of the edge of the lake excluding. So basically, the track around the lake was the area it couldn’t be seen from,” the spokesperson said They said the build in question (which was within the visual amenity line), exceeded the 7m in some places by 1.9m and breached the skyline from the entirety of Penrith Park Drive. QLDC also approved the owners to excavate 1900sq m, which in conjunction with the removal of a lot of kanuka made it even more visible.” “They (the owners) break three key rules that have a significant impact - the skyline; exceeding the height limit, and the building is visible from around the lake. And that’s before the roof was added,” the spokesperson said.
PHOTO: Supplied
Five months on and the build has continued, the roof is complete and the building is at its full 8.9 metres.
“It has got worse since it has the roof on.” At the judicial hearing Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) will be asked why the build didn’t affect any of the neighbours or why any of the breaches weren’t considered significant. “Every now and again I think I’m banging my head against a brick wall but then I look at the building and think it’s the maximum height anyone has considered building (which is 7 metres) and this one is 8.9m.” The spokesperson said the build didn’t need to be that high because the owners bought the section in front which gave them about 9500 sq/m - a “huge section,” and they could have built a single-story home that would have given them the same view. “It’s incompetency,” they said. “There is a rule that there has to be screening planted so that the house can’t be seen from public places. To achieve this would require the vegetation to be 7 or 8 metres high – which would require 20 years to achieve. In reality, there is no one on council going to be able to monitor that in 20 years time. And if they did provide that screening it would block their view. “And lights blaring out of the sky- there are so many rules that other people have not been able to break- and this build will break so many of them. “8.9m in an area where you aren’t allowed to be seen from public places and not allowed to break the skyline is stunningly bad.” The spokesperson said the affected residents wanted the High Court to decide that the current consent was void and the owners had to apply for a new consent which would be heard by commission rather than the council. In theory, if they didn’t get consent they would have to pull the house down, they said. “I don’t think this has ever happened but the house is a pretty dramatic breach of all the rules,” they said Because of the urgency of the case, it is being heard in the Invercargill High Court because it has the capacity at the right time. The owner of the build declined to comment.
Braden Currie and Kyle Smith had already gone head-to-head three times this season.
PHOTO: Graeme Murray
PHOTO: Craig Murray
Alongside the Ironman NZ event, Wānaka freeskier Craig Murray raced in the Ironman 70.3 to raise money for charity Boys Alive.
Continued from page 1 “Full credit to Kyle for sticking in there, he was hanging on tough on the run and good on him for getting it done.” “I wanted this win and I needed this win and that’s what I brought to the start line. The goal now is to make sure I’m ready for Kona [IRONMAN World Championships in Hawaiʻi] when it comes around again.” In the women’s race, two-time Challenge Wānaka Champion Hannah Wells came in first with a time of 09:01:49, followed by Rebecca Clarke and Emily McNaughtan. Running alongside the IRONMAN NZ event in Taupō was the half-distance 70.3 race, featuring Wānaka freeskier Craig Murray, who
signed up for his IRONMAN debut to raise money for charity Boys Alive. Murray said he was “stoked” to complete the race in 4:58:44 - ranking him 11th in his division and 73rd overall - despite technical difficulties caused by two flat tyres, which led him to cycle some 20km to find a tyre pump on a flat wheel. “It was hard on the legs,” he recalled, “but it was good in the end. I paced myself on the run to finish the second lap strong.” Murray said he was also “really grateful” to have raised over $4,600 for Boys Alive, which was well above his goal of $3,000, and that it was “amazing” to see Currie - who, along with Coast to Coast champion Dougal Allan, had provided him with support and advice in the run-up to the event - take the win.
Get ready for those cosy nights in. Big bargains on big brand TVs. We hate to remind you, but nights are about to get longer. On a brighter note, it’s a great excuse to get yourself a new TV. And with these end of line, Panasonic, LG, and Samsung, TV deals, you can’t go wrong. In fact, you’ll be more than happy to go into full couch potato mode (we also sell couches). Some products on display in selected stores only – please call 0800 764 847 to check availability.
THE WĀNAKA SUN
THURSDAY 01.04.21 - WEDNESDAY 07.04.21
PAGE 3
Sun News
thewanakasun.co.nz
Freedom Camping Bylaw Fewer freedom camping 2019 challenged infringements this summer Pat Deavoll
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
PHOTO: Myguide.queenstown
Funding from MBIE provided QLDC with an opportunity to try out some new ways to encourage more responsible camping.
Pat Deavoll
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
Queenstown Lakes District Council’s (QLDC) Freedom Camping Bylaw 2019 is being challenged by the New Zealand Motor Caravan Association Incorporated (NZMCA) through a judicial review process. QLDC Chief Executive Mike Theelen confirmed a statement of claim was received on March 23, 2021. “NZMCA’s legal challenge is based on a number of claims, mostly relating to the process the Council followed in making the Bylaw and the matters the Council took into account in making its decision. NZMCA also suggests that the Bylaw is in conflict with the Freedom Camping Act 2011,” he said. The Council is now taking legal advice and anticipates defending the proceedings, alongside its planned comprehensive review of Freedom Camping, and continuation of other tools used to manage camping in the area. “A new Freedom Camping Bylaw was adopted in December 2019 following a full special consultative procedure, a formal process the NZMCA participated in. At the time, a decision was also taken to complete a review of the Freedom Camping Bylaw 2019 within 18-24 months of adoption of the Bylaw. “Department of Conservation, Land Information NZ and Waka Kotahi NZTA also have sites across the district that are available to campers and a collaborative effort by a range of agencies has been the focus to ensure a comprehensive response to camping demand. This was achieved through the development of a Responsible Camping Strategy,” Theelen said.
“While the next bylaw review is earmarked for 2022, Council is already underway with a full review of freedom camping locations which commenced in February this year,” he said. Theelen said freedom camping had long been a topic of conversation and at times contentious in the Queenstown Lakes District and across New Zealand, and that the Bylaw was only one of tools to manage the activity. “Our district has long been a mecca for freedom campers of all shapes and sizes and the bylaw review in 2019 sought to balance the needs and expectations of campers and our local communities whose locations often bore the brunt of overuse and at times very antisocial behavior by some,” Theelen said. “Considerable funding from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) over three consecutive years provided us with an opportunity to try out some new ways to encourage more responsible camping in the district. “The initial MBIE funding in 2018 allowed us to trial a number of initiatives which were refined in 2019 and again in 2020 following lower visitor numbers caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This included overnight camping hubs, day service hubs, camping ambassadors and a significant increase in education and enforcement across the district resulting in fewer complaints from locals and excellent feedback from visiting campers,” he said. “Part of our trials have included looking at ways to better connect with freedom campers and over this summer period we have been encouraging them to support our local businesses who have been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting lower visitor numbers, by utilizing local campgrounds as part of their travels,” he said.
A reduction in freedom camping infringements over the past summer is positive news, according to Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLD) responsible camping project manager Craig Gallagher. “As the COVID-19 pandemic has reduced the number of freedom campers in our district we have seen a corresponding reduction in the number of infringements issued this year. We have issued a total of 255 infringements between 1 November 2020 and 29 March 2021. For the same period last year we issued 1864 infringements. “There have still been a relatively constant number of campers in our district, and it has been pleasing to see them camping, in general, in the right places and with certified, self-contained vehicles or in DOC or private campsites.” Gallagher said. “But while it has been pleasing to see campers are staying in the right places we have anecdotally received reports from the ambassadors of a small number of campers lighting fires and littering. It is important we continue to educate campers in our region of the importance of camping responsibly.” Eight “ambassadors” monitored freedom camping in the Queenstown Lakes over the past summer - the “friendly faces” of the district according to Gallagher. The ambassadors educated visitors about the district’s strict freedom camping bylaw. Fewer ambassadors were needed this summer because the council was not operating daytime service hubs for freedom campers, as it did the past two summers, Gallagher said. “The MBIE funding for responsible camping has allowed us to continue to monitor a wide area across our district, and ambassadors have continued to deliver educational messages and reinforce the Tiaki Promise. “They have promoted “stay local, buy local” and helped steer campers, including non-selfcontained vans, to serviced campgrounds and serviced Department of Conservation (DOC) sites,” he said. To date, visitor numbers have not been equivalent to those in previous seasons. The absence of international tourists was especially noticeable, Gallagher said. “Despite an anticipated increase in domestic travellers to Queenstown Lakes, the number of freedom campers was well down on recent summers.
PHOTO: QLDC
Craig Gallagher: We have seen a corresponding reduction in number of infringements issued this year.
However, there had been a "huge spike" in numbers over the Christmas and New Year period, especially for the few days around the Rhythm & Alps music festival near Cardrona on December 29, which attracted a sell-out crowd of 10,000,” he said. The council received $509,000 from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment for freedom camping initiatives in the 2020-21 camping season. Part of the funding was used to employ the ambassadors. The ambassadors had two electric vehicles to visit more remote parts of the district. "They’ve been doing tens of thousands of kilometres out to Glenorchy, Kinloch, Kingston and Makarora on a more frequent basis than we have before," Gallagher said. In a media statement last October, council community services general manager Thunes Cloete said the ambassador’s role was to educate visitors on how to camp in a responsible and sustainable way, direct them to local commercial campgrounds and identify trouble spots so that enforcement officers could follow up. Under the district’s bylaw, freedom camping was banned in town centres, residential areas and along key stretches of road. Outside those areas, visitors in certified selfcontained vehicles could park for up to two nights at any particular spot on Department of Conservation, district council or NZ Transport Agency land, provided they were a safe distance from a road. Illegal camping attracted a $200 fine.
Get a bit of culture this weekend. Browse our works of art. Big bargains on big brand whiteware. The Fisher & Paykel and Haier range of whiteware and cooking are so beautifully crafted, they really belong in a gallery. Look even closer, and you’ll find something else quite easy on the eye — the price. And, as with everything we sell, if you see it cheaper anywhere else, we’ll match it. Some products on display in selected stores only – please call 0800 764 847 to check availability.
PAGE 4
THURSDAY 01.04.21 - WEDNESDAY 07.04.21
THE WĀNAKA SUN
Sun News
thewanakasun.co.nz
Have your say on our parks New chair for Ignite Wānaka Pat Deavoll
Pat Deavoll
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
As if the 10-Year-Plan and the Spatial Plan wasn’t enough, Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) is looking for feedback on a draft Parks and Open Spaces Strategy 2021 and a draft Future Parks and Reserves Provisions Plan 2021. QLDC General Manager Community Services Thunes Cloete, said the Strategy was an integral part of providing a diverse network of open spaces for the community, while also protecting existing spaces and improving them for future generations. “Living in the Queenstown Lakes District comes with access to some of the best open spaces, lakes, waterways and mountains that New Zealand has to offer,” said Cloete. “Our community is passionate about the outdoors, and this lifestyle is a part of the identity of many people who choose to live, work and play in the district, and for those who visit.” The draft Parks and Open Spaces Strategy 2021 aimed to protect and improve the quality and accessibility of parks and open spaces both now and in the future. Prior to the COVID-19 global pandemic, the Queenstown Lakes District was experiencing the fastest rate of resident and visitor growth in New Zealand. While the pandemic had created uncertainty about the future, Cloete said that the underlying reasons people want to live in or visit the district remained.
PHOTO: DOC
Thunes Cloete: Living in the Queenstown Lakes District comes with access to some of the best open spaces, lakes, waterways and mountains that New Zealand has to offer.
“As our district grows there’s more demand for open spaces. Whether it’s a neighbourhood pocket park, walking track, a large foreshore reserve or sports field, it’s important our communities have access to these,” said Cloete. “Development and protection of the open space network and improvements to our parks and reserves are increasingly important for members of our community, which is not only why we have a Parks and Open Spaces Strategy, but also why it is important the community shares feedback on Council’s current draft.” Members of the community could read the draft Strategy, supporting information, and share their thoughts online at: letstalk.qldc.govt.nz. Feedback closes at 5.00pm on Monday 19 April 2021.
Go and experience your home town
The Ignite Wānaka Chamber of Commerce board has appointed Andrew Howard as its new chair, replacing interim chair Bridget Legnavsky. Howard is the People, Culture and Capability Manager at Mitre 10 Mega Wānaka and also the board chair of Wānaka Primary School. Howard was elected to the board at the AGM last November along with fellow new board members Emma Kenny, Jo Learmonth and Bronwyn McCarthy. At that time Legnavsky stepped back into the chair role – as an interim measure – after Pete Eastwood resigned from the board. Howard is a former owner of an outdoor equipment importing business and also worked for outdoor retailers Racers Edge and Mt Outdoors. In his current role at Mitre 10, he is responsible for human resources, health and safety and learning and development for the business. “We have already done some great work as a Chamber in focusing our business plan and reviewing our strategic position and vision over the past few months,” Howard said. “We will continue to deliver our key, successful events and programs but there are two new aspects to our plan. We have included a diversified economy as part of our strategy: the past year has shown us that diversified economies are successful economies. This is key to building resilience and future success in our district,” he said. “We have also included ‘listening’ as a key part of our plan. We need to understand the issues, pressure and successes of our community to best serve all businesses in our district. While this has
PHOTO: Ignite Wānaka
Howard is the People, Culture and Capability Manager at Mitre 10 Mega Wānaka and also the board chair of Wānaka Primary School.
always been done it is even more important now. “We have some very exciting events coming up this year and are looking forward to building on past success and reaching for an exciting future.” Howard’s appointment took place at last week’s board meeting. The full board is now: Andrew Howard, Celia Crosbie (vice chair), Claire Dooney, Emma Kenny, Jo Learmonth, Bridget Legnavksy, John Metzger and Bronwyn McCarthy. QLDC Deputy Mayor Calum McLeod is ex-officio.
Keeping you running fit
PHOTO: Lake Wānaka Tourism
Tim Barke: Now more than ever, it’s important the community support’s local, tries something new and experiences the activities, stays and experiences that Wānaka has to offer.
Pat Deavoll
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
Get out and about and experience what Wānaka has to offer is the message from Lake Wānaka Tourism’s latest initiative “Have you ever.” “Now more than ever, it’s important the community support local, tries something new and experiences the activities, stays and experiences that Wānaka has to offer,” said Lake Wānaka Tourism General Manager Tim Barke. The latest Lake Wānaka Tourism campaign is prompting locals and visitors to think about activities, stays, dining and other experiences that they’ve yet to tick off their bucket lists and inspire them to try something they’ve never done before in Wānaka. Combined with social media promotion, Lake Wānaka Tourism has partnered for the first time with several Wānaka businesses and building
THE WĀNAKA SUN
owners to install street posters, featuring work from some of the region’s photographers. These street posters are due to be installed this week at Helwick and Warren street locations, as well as in the Precinct. Barke said the benefits were two-fold; raising profile and awareness of all the experiences on offer, as well as providing a platform to showcase some stunning imagery. “This is the year to start ticking off some of those experiences you’ve always dreamt about doing, to support local, and get out and enjoy this beautiful place we get to call home,” Barke said. The campaign will run from this week until the end of April, with street posters being removed from walls on completion. Businesses and building owners are advised to contact Lake Wānaka Tourism should they wish to support local, join the campaign and volunteer wall space for additional poster installations.
Opening hours: Monday—Friday 8:30am—6:00pm 03 443 0725 • aspiringmedical.co.nz • 23 Cardrona Valley Rd
THURSDAY 01.04.21 - WEDNESDAY 07.04.21
PAGE 5
Sun News
thewanakasun.co.nz
NEWS IN BRIEF 2020 citizenship numbers drop due to COVID-19 New Zealand welcomed 31,870 new citizens in 2020, down from 44,413 in 2019. The decrease is due to the effects of COVID-19, says Te Tari Taiwhenua Department of Internal Affairs as it released new data on Friday. Australia is still the most common country of birth for people born outside New Zealand to gain citizenship. Just over 5,200 Aussies became Kiwis in 2020, either because they had a parent who is a citizen or they migrated to New Zealand. The United Kingdom comes second, with 5,199 new Kiwis, followed by India, with 2,970. Queenstown’s Kiwi Birdlife Park marks 35th anniversary with ‘35 for 35’ campaign Thirty-five years of outstanding contributions to the survival of New Zealand’s unique species is under threat at Queenstown’s Kiwi Birdlife Park. As the park marks the milestone anniversary this year, celebrations are muted as it faces the very real possibility of closure without continued funding and financial support. So with the Easter break and school holidays just around the corner, it’s launching a ’35 for 35’ campaign for the month of April, encouraging each visitor to donate $35 for the experience – a mere dollar for each year of wildlife conservation. Over the decades it’s attracted thousands of visitors every year and is recognised nationwide for its conservation success stories, taking part in a number of ‘breed-for-release’ programmes and displaying over 20 species of
native wildlife. It’s also planted nearly 20,000 native trees to provide essential food and shelter to wild native birds. Now the future is looking grim, with revenue down 80 per cent year-to-date and funding from the Wildlife Institute Relief Fund only covering a proportion of overall costs. Those costs are incurred whether they’re open or not, with two or three keepers required on site every day to care for and feed the wildlife. Playground on lakefront opens to public Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) has completed its refurbishment of the Rotary Playground on the Wānaka lakefront, with the area opening last Friday. QLDC’s budget for the renewal project was $350,000. The playground is located west of McDougall Street and has a heap of new features, including a swing set, spinning balance balls and balance steps, a trampoline and even a concrete scooter track running around its edge. QLDC General Manager Community Services Thunes Cloete, said he was thrilled with the work undertaken to upgrade the playground, and that the finished product was a great improvement. “The decision was made to upgrade this playground as the old space had limited equipment in what was a popular part of Wānaka’s lakefront,” said Cloete. “The new and improved space caters to a wide range of ages, from babies to teenagers, and it has been designed for a range of different types of play.” The project also involved a new set of bench seats and picnic tables around the existing
BBQ and shelter, making it the perfect spot for families with young children to enjoy the playground, the lakefront and the view. SH8 a traffic hotspot over Easter Waka Kotahi NZ Transport considers SH8 east of Wānaka (Tarras) will be a traffic hotspot over Easter. It reminds travellers to build in time this long weekend and get there and back again safely and enjoyably. “As the country was in Lockdown last year, we expect people will be making the most of the mostly mild autumn weather and heading away,” said Tresca Forrester, Waka Kotahi Journey Manager. “It could be busier on our highways than usual.” Crown Range Road robbery: Police appeal for sightings Police are appealing for the public’s help to identify a man who assaulted and robbed a Good Samaritan on the Crown Range Road on Friday night. At around 10:30pm a man stopped at the Eastburn Road layby on the Queenstown side of the Crown Range after noticing an unknown man signalling for help using a cellphone torch. After stopping and getting out of his car, the victim was asked to look at an issue with the other man’s vehicle. As the victim turned away he was punched several times by the man, who then grabbed the victim’s backpack and drove off in an unknown direction. Police want to identify and locate this offender and are asking for the public’s help. He is described as being around 182cm tall
(6ft), aged between 25 and 35, of stocky build, brown-skinned, and has a bushy hairstyle. His vehicle was described as a black or dark coloured four-door saloon. It is possible the offender was with others not seen by the victim, or that he may have tried to flag down other passers-by before or after this incident. The offender may also have stopped in the Queenstown / Arrowtown area or in Wānaka either before or after the assault. If you recognise this description or have any information which can help, please contact Police on 105, quoting file number 210327/4376. Information can also be provided via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 Reminder: Daylight Saving ends this Sunday If you find yourself asking ‘what’s the time Mr Wolf ’ when you wake up on Sunday morning, remember daylight saving comes to an end on Sunday 4 April when clocks go back one hour at 3am. Daylight saving plays an integral part in New Zealand life. Officially introduced in 1975, daylight saving has since gained wide support from Kiwis. Most digital clocks will automatically change to the correct time but if your clock is battery operated, make sure you check your batteries and change the time. If you’re taking a break over Easter, change your clocks before you go so you have one less thing to worry about when you get home. It’s also a good time to check the batteries in your smoke alarms and make sure your emergency plans and survival kits are up to date.
19 th Y E AR
Wanaka June 25 to 29 • Cromwell June 30
• Queenstown July 1 to 3
SPEAKERS: Tara Mulvany, Mark Watson, Nic Low, Max Quinn, Sam Masters and many more FEATURING: NEW 5 day Adventure Film School, Adventure Writing School, the world’s newest and most exciting films on adventure, environment and culture, workshops, book events, live music, art display, trade show and loads of socialising
BOOK YOUR PACKAGE DEALS NOW! Secure your all inclusive Festival Pass and hotel in Wanaka or Queenstown Wanaka package deals from $360 pp Queenstown package deals from $399 pp
PAGE 6
THURSDAY 01.04.21 - WEDNESDAY 07.04.21
THE WĀNAKA SUN
thewanakasun.co.nz
Sun News
Pork Pie Charity Run passes through Cromwell Pat Deavoll
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
Fifty teams of intrepid Kiwis in their minis passed through Cromwell on Tuesday afternoon as part of an epic 2350km journey from Paihia to Invercargill to raise money for children in need. Included in the cavalcade were two teams from Wānaka: Team Lake Wānaka and Team MinicarDrona. The Pork Pie Charity Run for KidsCan loosely follows the route taken by the Blondini Gang in the 1981 Kiwi classic ‘Goodbye Pork Pie’. “It’s a true test of endurance for the cars and their drivers,” organiser Tracey Brake said. “We’ve got Minis from 1964 with 850cc motors. Travelling long distances in a classic Mini is a bit like being a marble in a biscuit tin. But it is so much fun. “There are moments which take your breath away because the country is so stunning, and moments when you think, are we there yet? That rattle’s getting worse! To get to the finish line you need a finely tuned sense of humour, a chiropractor on speed dial and an AA Plus membership - that’s vital.” The teams come from all over New Zealand, and left Paihia on Friday March 26, travelling through Auckland, Taupō, Wellington, Christchurch, Franz Josef, and Queenstown before reaching
Invercargill yesterday. The biennial event began in 2009. 2019’s run raised more than $290,000 for KidsCan, which provides children living in hardship with food, jackets, shoes and health items, so nothing stops them from learning. “We get to have fun while we’re doing something really important. If we can pull this off in a pandemic and achieve our target for the kids, I’ll be so proud. It’s so incredibly special,” Brake said. “This year we’re also looking forward to bringing what business we can to those towns which are really suffering from a lack of tourism.” KidsCan’s founder and CEO, Julie Chapman, will be driving the final leg for Team KidsCan with the charity’s ambassador Jordan Watson. “We’re so grateful to be the recipient of this wonderful, quintessentially Kiwi roadie,” Chapman said. “It’s been an incredibly difficult year for vulnerable families around New Zealand, who have been hardest hit by the Covid-19 pandemic. Their children need our support more than ever, and I’d urge anyone who can support these crazy teams to please donate what you can it makes such a difference.” En route, the Minis will visit Hampton Downs Motorsport Park, cruise through Horopito Motor Wreckers - Smash Palace, and test their small engines with laps of Highlands Motorsport Park in Cromwell.
Skate Club fundraiser raises $1,500 for house fire families
Denise Doherty on the left and Sally Hughes-Allan from Wānaka team MiniCar-Drona.
PHOTOS: Pork Pie Charity Run
MiniCar-Drona: life on the open road!
Joanna Perry
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
A fundraiser organised by the Wānaka Skate Club to support their young members and families affected by the Totara Terrace house fire raised $1,500 on Sunday, along with donations and products from a number of supporting businesses. The club executive of Wayne Pretty, Olly Burke and Sally Norman organised a sausage sizzle and skate jam in Pembroke Park, and put out a call for any businesses wishing to get involved on Facebook. They were overwhelmed when offers - from bouncy castles to BBQing equipment came flooding in. The Skate Club gave special thanks to New World, Wānaka Four Square, WanaBounce, Florence’s Café, Rhyme & Reason, Base, Mons Royale, Radcliffe Electrical, Caltex, Red Star, Soul Clothing, Ripe Festival, Queenstown Lakes District Council, the Fallows family, and all members of the community and Wānaka Skate Club who came to support. Club president Olly Burke said: “Events like this go to show how strong the skate community is in Wānaka and that we are all there for each other. With a new direction, the club plans to build on its sense of community and create a positive culture. The first goal is a litter free skatepark.” The soundtrack to the fundraiser was organised by Mat Doyle, with musical performances from local acts Cheap Thrills, Snake Rat and Slow on the Kahu Youth community stage. The town’s second Guerrilla Gig also took place with performances from Paige Gawn, Ella Miles, Alex Dykes - who travelled from Dunedin - Oliver Prince DJing and artist Julia Sternkopf painting a landscape as the music took place. Guerrilla Mark Orbell said the “fantastic” event was very well-supported by the community. For anyone else who would like to support the families, donations can be arranged via Community Networks.
THE WĀNAKA SUN
Trusted Healthcare for Life PHOTO: Supplied
The Skate Club organised a sausage sizzle and skate jam to raise funds, with offers of help flooding in from local businesses.
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. e: office@wanakamedical.co.nz t: (03) 443 0710
a: 23 Cardrona Valley Road, Wanaka
www.WanakaMedical.co.nz
PHOTO: Tom Peden
The soundtrack to the fundraiser was provided by local acts on the Kahu Youth community stage.
THURSDAY 01.04.21 - WEDNESDAY 07.04.21
PAGE 7
Sun News
thewanakasun.co.nz
Fishing guide reinvents himself Pat Deavoll
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
If anyone has been hit hard by the effects of Covid it’s Wānaka hunting and fishing guides, who relied on overseas clients to maintain their businesses. Fishing guide Matt Butler arrived in Wānaka from Cambridge six years ago to “really get into fishing.” Not long after arriving, he got work with Minaret Station as a fishing guide and soon moved out on his own. He has been an independent fishing guide for the last five years. That was until Covid struck. “I had a livelihood that disappeared from under my feet. I lost 95 per cent of my business with Covid which was pretty indicative of what happened to the hunting and fishing guides in the district,” Butler said. “I made a good livelihood up until Covid. I was guiding about 100 days a year charging $850 to $1000 a day. I only had to work for about six months of the year and then I would take the winter off and go overseas and fish and travel. Last year I was supposed to go to Cuba and Mexico for three months and fish but of course, that didn't happen. “My clients were about 90 per cent Americans, 5 per cent Australians and the rest a mix from around the world. I only got about one Kiwi a year. I've only had five Kiwis this year so technically lost 95 per cent of my clients.” Fly fishing guiding is on par with hunting guiding, Butler says. Guide and clients go out and walk all day hunting for individual fish. They target them one on one. Butler did single days where he might go up the Makarora or do multiple day trips where he went down south with his clients and did a different river every day. It was very much an expedition, much like a hunting trip, he says. “Come Covid, I had clients booked and as the season didn't finish until the end of May, I lost about 20 days in April. Luckily it happened at the end of the season whereas the hunting guys lost all their season because they were just starting. So I lost about 20 per cent of my days and then I got one round of the wage subsidy and that was it. I couldn't get another because I was in my offseason. I couldn't say I had lost income and that was annoying,” Butler says. So what is Butler doing now, a year on from Covid? He has designed an outdoor “survival pack.”. Where did this idea come from? “I've always had to carry that stuff in my pack when I'm guiding,” he said. “First aid kit, tools and a backup shelter just in case the shit hit the fan when I was out there. But honestly, I've never really taken what I should because it's just so
PHOTO: Stuff
Fishing on the Makarora River in days gone by.
cumbersome to pack it all. It's been a nightmare. “So when lockdown happened I started to think how it could be done better. It was this time last year that I first drew down the idea and this past year I have been prototyping and testing it and getting it made. I have factories overseas in China and Thailand working on it and it's taken a year to get to this point.” Butler developed an external case with four compartments – a tool kit, a first aid kit, a shelter and a water straw. You can take out what you need when you need it, he says. It's taken a lot of time to get the design right to make it all fit, look nice and be presentable, he says. “I've had a graphic designer in Wānaka who has done all the branding work, and it's looking pretty good now. “I'm targeting the mid-range outdoor enthusiast range- not the hardcore of course because they are all about reducing weight- so it's the midrange to low range enthusiasts. The weekend warriors – hunting to fishing to tramping, even something you can keep in your car. “The target market is the average outdoorsman who is not an ultra-high-end mountaineer. These are so professional in what they do they usually have everything sorted. Whereas most average people have a bit of an idea but they don't know what to take. Even though they know they should,
TRUST THE CHEF Sharing Plates + Glass of Wine or Tap Beer*
they don't know what.” Butler says he has even been thinking of targeting off-road motorcyclists or four-wheel drivers- just chuck it in and you’ve got everything you need to go. The kit is launching on KickStarter in May. It cost a fair bit to make so I want to sell a few thousand to pay for the launch, Butler says. “Fishing guiding? I've done five days over the summer- but the season is pretty much done now and it tapers off fast. I think I've retired from it now. It's going to take three or four years to come back and there are so many guys out there that have lost their work. If I can make this work for me I will just forward my fishing enquiries on to the other guides in Wānaka who are struggling.”
$45 pp Tuesday - Thursday // 5pm - Close Phone: 03 443 6748
www.urbangrind.co.nz
*Conditions Apply ·
PAGE 8
PHOTO: Supplied
Matt Butler: I made a good livelihood up until Covid. I was guiding about 100 days a year charging $850 to $1000 a day.
PAINTBALL PAINTBALL CENTRAL CENTRAL CROMWELL
Dine-In Only · Bookings Recommended
PHOTO: supplied
Matt’s comprehensive “survival pack” for trampers, hunters, fishermen….
Holiday Fun • Stag dos • Birthdays • Fun for all
email: paintballcentral@xtra.co.nz PHONE: (027) 448-5399 TO BOOK
THURSDAY 01.04.21 - WEDNESDAY 07.04.21
THE WĀNAKA SUN
Wallace & Gibbs Easter Thursday 1st April to Tuesday 6th April
SALE
DESIGNER BRANDS MASSIVE PRICE REDUCTIONS
ARROW TOWN HALL
Thurs 1st-Mon 5th 10am to 6pm | Tues 6th 10am to 4pm
MEN’S, WOMEN’S & CHILDREN’S Clothing, Shoes & Accessories
Brought to you by the Wallace & Gibbs Group; Wallace & Gibbs, IKON, GOALS, The WoolPress & Te Huia THE WĀNAKA SUN
THURSDAY 01.04.21 - WEDNESDAY 07.04.21
PAGE 9
Sun News
thewanakasun.co.nz
Celebrate the Got an old MAC kilt? Donate it! harvest bounty Pat Deavoll
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
Old Mount Aspiring College (MAC) kilts are getting a new life in Napier thanks to an initiative by Wastebusters, MAC parents, and a little help from NZ Couriers. Nineteen kilts have been sent off to Napier Girls High School, which uses the same-coloured tartan as the old MAC kilts, with the freight costs donated by NZ Couriers. “Thanks to NZ Couriers for sponsoring the freight and helping us give these quality kilts a second life,” Wastebusters communications coordinator Ruth Blunt said. Mount Aspiring College students are transitioning to a new uniform from Term Two, meaning the old uniform will be decommissioned by the end of the year. “Wastebusters can find new homes
PHOTO: Supplied
“This is a shout out to the community for excess vegies from their garden.”
Joanna Perry
First female MTB camp a success newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
to celebrate local food, community growers and the harvest bounty. A team of volunteer organisers and chefs will create a multi-course meal based on excess produce donated from the community. “This is a shout out to the community for excess vegies from their garden,” said Parsons, “pumpkin, courgettes, tomatoes… instead of letting it go to waste or rot on the ground, bring it and sit down and have lunch.” “Last time was amazing,” said Parsons, “we had more than we knew what to do with. It’s a real feelgood event.” Proceeds will go to local charity Food for Love, with the last event in 2019 raising about $1,000. And to keep the event as simple and waste free as possible, guests are asked to bring their own crockery, cutlery and glassware. To donate produce, contact Lara on 021 0836 0852 or larajmetcalfe@ gmail.com. For more information or tickets, visit the Wānaka Autumn Harvest Festival Facebook event page.
Ten female mountain bikers from Queenstown, Rotorua, Kapiti Coast and Wānaka came together last week for the first Mons Royale Future Ground Progression Camp in Queenstown - an effort to help bridge the gap between amateur and professional for female riders by providing the opportunity, environment and support to help them progress. Mons Royale team rider Louise Ferguson (Queenstown) said the week had been “epic” and she had “loved every minute of learning from all these awesome girls and mentors.” “When you look at other sports like snow sports, the women there are competing at the highest level and it gives you something to aim for. And you can look at those processes and transfer that across to us, that’s where I want the future to go. More camps like this, using Future Ground as a starting point and a blueprint to recreate it.” Mons Royale Founder, Hamish Acland, said the idea for the camp came from the “clear gap in the sport” for female riders. The camp focused on breaking down
Office hours: 8:30am – 5pm centralotagofunerals@hotmail.co.nz 16 Ennis Street, Alexandra 9320 0800 263 863 or 03 448 8642
tricks to build them back up from the fundamentals, and the idea that progression takes time and help from others, as well as perseverance. Up-and-comer, Wānaka-based Kalani Muirhead said the camp had been “so cool,” and she was “stoked” with the improvements she had made. “I didn’t have that much confidence at the beginning but the fact the other
girls had confidence in me made me do things I wasn’t sure I could… I am ticking off the jumps and it’s been great as the girls have been towing me in. So now I can tow my brother in! Pay back.” Following the inaugural event’s success, the Future Ground team have already committed to a second camp, which will be announced in the coming weeks.
2021 Photographic Exhibition
FUNERALS
Staff Profile of Graham Stephen… In 1979 Graham started working for Funeral Directors, J Fraser & Sons Ltd, in Invercargill. The formal part of his Funeral Directing training was completed in Wellington in 1984/85 and then he gained a Diploma in Embalming in 1994. Moving his family to Gore in 1996 to start Southern Funeral Home which saw his wife, Heather, take on the role of Funeral Director as well which has seen them work together ever since. Purchasing the Southern Lakes Funerals, Queenstown Funeral Home, in 2014 and then Central Otago Funerals in Alexandra in 2015. Graham and Heather love living in Central Otago which they now call home as it is a drawcard for their four children and their families to spend time with them.
PHOTO: Mons Royale / Neil Kerr
Up-and-comer, Wānaka-based Kalani Muirhead said the camp had been “so cool,” and she was “stoked” with the improvements she had made.
Wanaka Camera Club
Central Otago
PAGE 10
PHOTO: Catrin Aeron
Old MAC uniforms can be dropped off at Wastebusters for reuse. Here are Wastebusters reuse team members Callum Carbon and Blake Phillipson, dressed to the max!
Joanna Perry
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
The call is out for anyone with surplus fruit and veggies in their gardens to save waste and donate to the Wānaka Autumn Harvest Festival. Organised by Wao Aotearoa in collaboration with local businesses, the community event at Rippon aims to bring people together and minimise waste. This year’s festivities will feature the seventh annual Wānaka Autumn Apple Drive on Saturday, April 10, followed by the second annual Long Lunch on Sunday. With a focus on preserving surplus produce, the apple drive will feature a communal chutney making session and fresh juice pressing. Project Manager at Wastebusters Sophie Ward said: “bring your surplus fruit, a sharp knife, a chopping board, small jars and 1-2 litre bottles for juice and join the communal activities.” Co-organiser, Federal Diner owner Brona Parsons said the apple drive had become “one of the mainstays of the Wānaka calendar,” and in 2019 it was decided to add a lunch event
for all the old uniforms in good wearable condition,” Blunt said. “Items like polo shirts, shorts, culottes, PE tops and woolly socks can be dropped off to us - even after the move is made to the new uniform - as we can find homes for them as long as they don't have rips or holes. “Any students needing second hand uniforms to make it through until the new uniforms arrive can pop into the Wastebusters shop for a quick rummage through the uniform rack. Hopefully they’ll find something to fit which can get them through.” Kilts can also be dropped off at Wastebusters and at the MAC front office as another batch will be sent north to Napier Girls when numbers allow.
Penny Fisher RN MBA
027 343 4776
Penny’s Home Care
Official opening by renowned Photographer Gilbert van Reenen on Thursday 8th April at 6.30pm Community Hub, McDougall Street.
Professional Trustworthy Friendly Reliable Personal care, Dementia care, 24 hour care, Palliative care, Medication assistance, Transport to appointments. ww w. pennyshomec are. c o. nz
Opening night admission $10 including wine and nibbles. Exhibition open 10am to 4pm Friday 9th and Saturday 10th April at the same venue. Gold Coin admission
THURSDAY 01.04.21 - WEDNESDAY 07.04.21
Sonia Waters Intimacy Guide Helping people discover deeper connection sonia@wildself.nz
www.wildself.nz
THE WĀNAKA SUN
thewanakasun.co.nz
Sun News
PHOTO: Tonia Kraakman
Nicola Bennie (Wānaka) and Ashleigh Wilson (Ngatea) back at Wānaka Trail Ride 2021 after first riding together in 2021.
Wānaka Trail Ride does it again Pat Deavoll
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
PHOTO: Supplied
LINK Upper Clutha organised four events in four days for Neighbours Day Aotearoa 2021 last week, featuring Lilliput Library and Winter Veggies workshops with the Wānaka & District Lions and Dr Compost, a morning tea open house, and a Friday night showing of ‘Forrest Gump’ at Cinema Paradiso. LINK Facilitator Kathy Dedo said: “We were delighted with the large turnout for our Neighbours Day events. Our past ‘Have a Cuppa’ tea bag pack distribution encouraged connection at that most local level. “This year, bringing people together to learn more about other methods like Lilliput Libraries and communal gardening obviously struck a chord with many. “Our morning tea at the Hub saw preschoolers, retirees, and many in between coming to learn more about the social services and facilities available in the building that is LINK’s home. “The free movie night was also popular and we are considering continuing these to encourage connection among families, friends, and strangers who may become friends. “Personal connection is where community building starts, and LINK is always looking for new ways to encourage this.”
Something on your mind? Join us on Wednesday 7 April between 12.00-1.00pm to talk through any local issues, no matter how big or small, with your local Community Board members.
THE WĀNAKA SUN
Nearly 600 riders from around the South Island descended upon Tarras last Saturday for the sixth annual Wānaka Trail Ride. Warm, dry conditions set the scene for keen trail riders as they set off to enjoy a range of loops ranging from family-friendly and intermediate to challenging single trails for experts. The ride, which covered around 100 kilometres of private high-country farmland, was the major fundraiser for Wānaka Primary School and Montessori Children’s House Wānaka. The ride also donated $1 from every entry to the RSA Appeal, with Tarras Primary School running the car parking as part of their fundraising. Wānaka Trail Ride Track Manager Phil Pendlebury said he was delighted to see so many new and returning riders. “This year, we added nearly 40 kilometres of extra terrain which gave the expert riders something to sink their teeth into,” said Pendlebury. “We made sure there would be challenges - the steep hill climbs and downhill descents seemed to go down well with those tackling the advanced loops.” “And we had the peewee track set up and running all day which, the young kids just loved. “This is an event deliberately pitched for all-ages and all-abilities. Regardless of what trails you’re riding; it’s about getting out and seeing some spectacular scenery and having some fun.”
This year saw Nicola Bennie and Ashleigh Wilson, reunited after tackling the ride together back in 2015 when they both lived in Wānaka. “Nicola now lives an hour away from Auckland in Ngatea, and I asked if she fancied coming back to Wānaka especially to ride the trails together, and so here she is,” said Wilson. Seasoned riders Aaron Moore and Dave Blair also came to the first trail ride in 2015 and have been returning over the years. “It’s an excellent ride, with enough riding for all levels from beginners to advanced with some technical stuff, and then you can head back down to paddock on the main loop for a rest and a great burger for lunch,” said Blair. A completely volunteer-run event, the Wānaka Trail Ride relied on the support of local volunteers and sponsors for its success. More than 1000 hours of volunteer time went into this year’s event; help with safety, first aid, marshalling and photography. “We have an amazing team of local riders who come out to help marshal and keep an eye on the young riders, and this year everything went smoothly,” Pendlebury said. “But most importantly, we couldn’t do any of this without the generosity of the landowners. These guys are amazing - they welcome us onto their land. It’s a huge show of community support on their part.” With organisers delighted with the number of riders who turned up to the event, it looked like all the hard work had paid off.
ānaka Drop by the W r a chat fo b u H y it n u m Com and a cuppa!
Cuppa Clutha
THURSDAY 01.04.21 - WEDNESDAY 07.04.21
PAGE 11
Sun News
thewanakasun.co.nz
International virtuoso violinist Natalia Lomeiko in concert with pianist Sarah Watkins
PHOTO: Milena Parobczy
Pianist Sarah Watkins has had an impressive career in the USA and New Zealand and is probably best known as a founding member of NZ Trio.
Wānaka Concert Society is excited about its concert this Monday, 5 April at 7.30 pm, at the Lake Wānaka Centre with violinist Natalia Lomeiko and pianist Sarah Watkins, founding member of the NZ Trio. Based at the London Royal College of Music as Professor of Violin, Natalia is one of the top violinists in the world. She was able to travel to New Zealand during Covid 19 because of the honouree New Zealand citizenship she received following her win of the Sir Michael Hill International Violin Competition. Born into a family of musicians in Novosibirsk, Russia, Lomeiko has established herself internationally as a versatile performing artist. Since her debut with the Novosibirsk Symphony Orchestra at the age of seven, Lomeiko has won numerous prizes in a host of international violin
competitions and has performed extensively as a soloist and chamber musician in prestigious London venues such as the Wigmore Hall, the Purcell Room, the Queen Elizabeth Hall, Buckingham Palace, the Barbican and the Royal Festival Hall. She has toured throughout Great Britain, Europe, Russia, USA, South America, Singapore, Japan, Australia and New Zealand. Pianist Sarah Watkins has also had an impressive career in the USA and New Zealand and is probably best known as a founding member of the NZ Trio. Watkins is highly sought after as a collaborative pianist, recording artist, and ensemble musician and has been an official pianist for the Michael Hill International Violin Competition since its inception in 2001 and performed as a freelance player with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. – By Wānaka Concert Society
Steve Day said the trek was a way to combine two of his passions: family and Chamberlain tractors.
PHOTO: Supplied
Tractors on tour for Heart Kids Joanna Perry
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
Nine Chamberlain tractors drivers will arrive at Wheels at Wānaka this Easter weekend after a 2,200km journey from New Plymouth. The Heartland Tractor Trek, organised by Steve Day, is raising funds for Heart Kids, a charity which provides practical and emotional support to children and their families living with congenital heart defects (CHDs). Day’s grandson, Oliver, was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect before birth. Two years later, he has already had three open heart surgeries and will need further surgery and treatment throughout his life.
The Tractor Trek will travel through Otago - visiting schools, clubs and towns along the way to raise funds and awareness - in time to participate in the all-vehicle Wheels at Wānaka show over Easter, where Heart Kids is the event charity. Day said the trek was a way to combine two of his passions: family and Chamberlain tractors. “As a grandparent any time spent with your grandkids is precious, but it really hits home when they have been through more than you can imagine possible. I wanted to be able to do something for Heart Kids to thank the team for all they have done for our family since Oli was diagnosed. “I’m looking forward to taking my 9G for a trek and spending time with other
Chamberlain enthusiasts,” he said. “It should be a fairly comfortable trip, the 9G has a sprung front axle and I can always take out the windows if it gets too hot in the cab.” Chief executive of Heart Kids, Mark Longbottom, said Heart Kids was “incredibly honoured” to be the beneficiary of Day’s passion and sense of adventure. “One in 100 babies in New Zealand will be born with a heart defect. Our professional support staff and volunteers provide practical and emotional support to families of heart children. We couldn’t do what we do without the selfless efforts of supporters like Steve.” To follow the Tractor Trek online or make a donation visit www.heartlandtractortrek.nz.
For local business insurance, talk to a local. Insurance should be straightforward. Our experience with the unique demands of Wanaka businesses means we specialise in insurance solutions tailored to meet your needs. For quality advice on your policy, from brokers with local knowledge, get in touch today. Grant Homann Commercial Broker P: 021 028 33176 E: grant.homann@rothbury.co.nz
PAGE 12
Robert Mitchell Associate Broker P: 021 984 975 E: robert.mitchell@rothbury.co.nz
rothbury.co.nz
THURSDAY 01.04.21 - WEDNESDAY 07.04.21
THE WĀNAKA SUN
Sun News
thewanakasun.co.nz
CAMERA CLUB ‘IN FOCUS’ Silhouettes are a wonderful way to convey drama, emotion and mood and will often stand out from other images because of their simplicity and the story they convey. Many photographers enjoy silhouettes because they don’t give the viewer a clear picture but leave part of the image up to the imagination. The best strategy for silhouette shots is to place the subject (the part we want the darkest) in front of some source of light and to force the camera to set the exposure based on the brightest part of the image (the background) and not the subject of the photo. In doing this the subject will be underexposed (and very dark, if not black). We are trying to make the camera think that it is the bright part of the image we are interested in not the actual subject. Almost any object can be made into a silhouette but some are better than others. We should choose a subject with a strong and recognisable shape which will interesting enough in its twodimensional form to hold the interest of the viewer. Silhouettes cannot draw on the colour, texture and tones of the subject to make it look appealing – so the shape needs to be distinct. Frame the subject so we are shooting in front of a plain but bright background. Take the photo at a lower angle than
PHOTO: Wānaka Camera Club
The Wānaka Camera Club offers a range of day trips and field trips to places such as Milford, the West Coast and Makarora.
Camera Club exhibition to open next week Joanna Perry
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
PHOTO: Allan Ford
Sunset.
normal with the subject at the same height or higher than the camera view. This way we can capture the subject against a background free of offputting distractions. Since the best silhouette images have a sharp subject as well as a sharp background. maximise the depth of field by shooting at a low aperture (f11 –f22). That way both the foreground and background will be nice and sharp, particularly if we are careful to use a shutter speed high enough to prevent camera shake. A great example of a silhouette photograph is Allan Ford’s image ‘Sunset.’ Allan liked the wonderful sunset at Hokitika and positioned himself low and close to the subject to block the sun, yet allow the glow to show through, He used a low aperture of f22 to ensure there was sufficient depth of field to keep the whole image in sharp focus. Allan used a Nikon
D5600 camera with shutter speed set at 1/100th second, focal length of 66mm and an ISO of 400. Wānaka Camera Club is dedicated to improve the skills of anyone interested in photography. Come along and see what we can do for you. Our next meeting is 12 April 7.30pm St John’s Room, Link Way. Before this Wānaka Camera Club is hosting its Photographic Exhibition at ‘The Community Hub’ McDougall Street. We are delighted that the exhibition will be opened Thursday 8 April at 6.30pm by the renowned photographer Gilbert van Reenen. $10 admission will include a glass of wine and nibbles. The exhibition will remain open between 10am – 4.00pm on both Friday 9 and Saturday 10 April. Gold coin donation. Come along and see some great photographs. You will enjoy it! – By Bob Moore
The Wānaka Camera Club will once again be heralding the Festival of Colour month of April with their annual photography exhibition, opening this year on April 8. The Wānaka Camera Club started up in 2007, holding their first exhibition in 2009, and now has around 50 active members. Any paying member of the club is welcome to submit work for the exhibition, which normally features around 100 submissions. This year, the club has opened up submissions to work of any size, framed or unframed - so there will be a whole range on display, from novice to A-grade, A4 to A1, framed, unframed and even printed on glass. Committee member Jacqui Scott said the variety of styles would include natural history, still life, landscapes and abstract. The exhibition also has a new home this year in the Wānaka Community Hub’s auditorium.
“It can be really hard to find a venue which is light enough for people to walk around and also affordable,” said Scott. “When the Hub came along, it was ideal for us.” The Upper Clutha Community Arts Council was sponsoring the exhibition with a grant to cover the cost of the location. The three-day event will be opened by photographic artist Gilbert van Reenen at 6:30pm on Thursday, April 8 and run from 10:00am-4:00pm after that. Scott invited one and all to come along for a gold coin donation, with opening night tickets costing $10. She also welcomed newcomers and novices to join the club, which is structured to enable novices to learn from - and progress to be - more experienced members, and offers a range of day trips and field trips, regardless of experience. “I had none when I started the club. I knew nothing, I had a camera but didn’t know which way to look through,” she said. For more information, visit www. Wānakacameraclub.co.nz or the club’s Facebook page.
VIRTUOSO INTERNATIONAL VIOLINIST
Natalia Lomeiko with pianist Sarah Watkins
ACCOMMODATION • RESTAURANT • BAR • CAFE
MONDAY 5 APRIL, 7.30 PM LAKE WANAKA CENTRE, 89 ARDMORE ST ADULTS: $35; CHILDREN/STUDENTS AT SCHOOL: FREE Cash ticket sales at Gifted Design Store, 19 Helwick Street, Wānaka. Online sales at www.eventfinda.co.nz, Booking Fee applies. Cash door-sales from 6.30pm at Lake Wanaka Centre. www.wanakaconcertsociety.org.nz Presented by Wanaka Concert Society. Supported by QLDC.
The Most Awe-Inspiring Makarora Attractions Spend the morning taking in the natural wonder with a Backcountry Helicopter tour before enjoying a peaceful stroll through the region’s famed Blue pools. Adventure is your oyster here in Otago, and we’re thrilled to share this with you. • 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 THE WĀNAKA SUN
THURSDAY 01.04.21 - WEDNESDAY 07.04.21
PAGE 13
Sun News
thewanakasun.co.nz
Fancy yourself a Relay for Life funds keep going up filmmaker? Pat Deavoll
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
As part of the NZ Mountain Film & Book Festival, the two day Adventure Film School, which has been running since 2011, has morphed into the five day advanced Adventure Film School, available to emerging filmmakers to advance their skills. Instructed by six industry leading professionals, the school will include modules on topics like: producing/ development/storytelling, directing/ safety/interviews, audio, camera work, editing, special effects, with a final day of student editing and mentorship. During the 5-day programme participants will learn insider skills to hone their craft, strengthen their narratives, interact with fellow filmmakers, and will receive tutoring throughout the course. The school has a definite adventure focus - filming in the outdoors, around and in water, up and down mountains, in the backcountry. By the end of the course attendees should have a good understanding of how to plan an adventure film, write a story, apply for funding, compose and film it, do interviews and record quality sound, edit the footage, add basic animation and effects then polish off the film for submitting to film festivals, or just to show to family or friends. Emmy nominated and Oscar
PHOTO: Stuff
Gus Roxburgh has enjoyed a wide-ranging career encompassing television, film, print and online media.
shortlisted Gus Roxburgh is a guest speaker at the school and said: “The course is aimed at people who have done the course in the past or who have a professional view of the industry in mind. “I'm going to be tutoring in what production involves because I have been working internationally for a long time. “Where you might end up; what's involved in putting a project together and pitching it; all the different facets of being a producer and working for networks. The big picture from someone who has been working in production for a long time.” Roxburgh has enjoyed a wide-ranging career encompassing television, film, print and online media. Most recently he spent 7 years as Head of Formats and Series for the Red Bull Media House in the USA – and he continues to work as Executive Producer on many of their global projects. Interested parties can apply at: www. mountainfilm.nz/adventure-film-school.
Bob King, Acting CEO Cancer Society Otago and Southland, opened the relay alongside Sharman and Deputy Mayor Calum MacLeod with the ribbon cutting and survivor’s lap.
Joanna Perry
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
The second Wānaka Relay for Life has now raised almost $103,000 for the Cancer Society, and the amount keeps going up - much to the delight of organiser Jane Sharman and her team of volunteers. Sharman said it had been “amazing” to see over 350 team members sign up for the 24 hour event, with teams returning from the 2019 event as well as a “whole lot” of new ones, and even more people turning up to walk the track on the day. She said it was the “beauty of Relay,” and its location in Pembroke Park, that friends
and family of participants - as well as passersby - could join in and support. Despite some heavy rain overnight and after breakfast, dedicated participants were still out there doing their laps to keep their team in the running, and morale was kept high by a variety of entertainment - including music, dancing, activities, games and food. A tree had been planted in Pembroke Park to commemorate the inaugural event in 2019, which raised $80,000, and this year a plaque was installed there in memory of Wānaka’s loved ones affected
PHOTOS: Wānaka Sun
A plaque was installed at the tree planted in memory of the inaugural 2019 Relay for Life in Pembroke Park.
by cancer. Bob King, Acting CEO Cancer Society Otago and Southland, opened the relay alongside Sharman and Deputy Mayor Calum MacLeod with the ribbon cutting and survivor’s lap. “Everyone has been touched by cancer, but this experience brings us together,” he said. Sharman said the second event had “spread the word a wee bit wider” and it was “awesome to see the community spirit.” All money raised through Relay For Life helps people in the community through the Cancer Society’s support services, health promotion programmes and cancer research.
Help shape our district’s future Are you interested in having a say on the big issues facing the Queenstown Lakes District? Now’s your chance.
2021-2031 Ten Year Plan | 2021-2031 He Mahere Kahurutaka Consultation document | He tuhika whakawhiti kōrero
SUBMISSIONS CLOSE AT 5.00P M ON MONDAY 19 APRIL 2021
Draft 2021-31 Ten Year Plan The big picture of where we’re heading as a district and how we’ll get there. It proposes an ambitious capital investment programme and covers all of the services Council provides and the projects we propose to either deliver or begin within the next ten years.
Draft Queenstown Lakes Spatial Plan Summary For community consultation
Have you r say at letstalk. qldc.govt .nz by 19 Ap ril 2021
Draft Queenstown Lakes Spatial Plan Summary Proposes a vision and framework for how and where our district will grow in the future. It will guide decisions, and investment across local, regional and central government to ensure we’re delivering the best possible future for our community and the generations that will follow us.
Get full details and have your say at letstalk.qldc.govt.nz or drop in to your local Council office or library. Submissions are currently open and will close at 5.00pm on Monday 19 April 2021.
PAGE 14
THURSDAY 01.04.21 - WEDNESDAY 07.04.21
THE WĀNAKA SUN
Sun News
thewanakasun.co.nz
THE WCB WORD
‘Us’ - a mass movement event
A regular update from Wānaka Community Board Chair, Barry Bruce I would like to thank those who dropped in to chat at our recent community “Pop In” session on 3 March. A diverse range of topics was discussed, and it was a great opportunity to catch up with locals and hear what was important to them and how the Wānaka Community Board (WCB) can offer support. I’d like to address the road congestion on Lakeside and Lismore and say while I do appreciate that this is frustrating for some residents, the results of Stage Three - Wānaka Lakefront Development will be well worth the temporary inconvenience. Kids get creative on underpass mural The Wānaka Community Board are delighted to see children from Te Kura O Take Karara School make progress to paint a mural on the town’s new underpass. Guided by local artist Chrissy Wickes and Principal Jodie Howard, the design of the mural will be developed by the children and painted by them later in the term. This has been a fantastic collaboration led by Chrissy who has fostered a creative and engaging learning process for the kids; supported by the Council, Community Board, NZTA and Mitre 10. Waste Minimisation Community Fund Do you have a clever and innovative idea for a project to move our community towards a zero-waste future? The Community Board are pleased to support the 2021 Waste Minimisation
Community Fund. The goal of this fund is to support new initiatives that complement and enhance existing programmes, address gaps or create new opportunities. There are two main objectives that must be met: • Waste Reduction – Reducing waste at source and/or; • Resource Recovery – Diverting waste from landfill. Read more about the criteria and see how you can submit a great idea. Waste Minimisation Community Fund (qldc. govt.nz) Draft Ten Year Plan 2021-2031 and draft Spatial Plan Council is now asking for community feedback on a draft Ten Year Plan and draft Spatial Plan for the district which went live on Friday 19 March and runs for four weeks. The draft Ten Year Plan is the big picture of where we’re heading as a district and how we’ll get there. It proposes an ambitious capital investment programme and covers all of the services Council provides and the projects we propose to either deliver or begin within the next ten years. The draft Spatial Plan proposes a vision and framework for how and where our district will grow in the future. It will guide decisions, and investment across local, regional and central government to ensure we’re delivering the best possible future for our community and the generations
Joanna Perry
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
that will follow us. These are both key pieces of work that talk about the big issues for our community so I would urge you to get involved and have your say! Head to letstalk.qldc.govt.nz for all the details. Wānaka Community Board News My fellow Community Board members and I thoroughly enjoyed getting out and sharing in this year’s excitement of the Wānaka A&P Show. We welcomed over 40,000 people to Wānaka to experience the best of rural life – I hope you got the chance to partake in this spectacular event. With the upcoming draft Ten Year Plan and Spatial Plan consultations, the Wānaka Community Board would love to hear what you, our community, has to say. We’ll be attending different community association meetings and welcome your feedback into how we can make the Upper Clutha even better. Keep your eye out for our next pop in session on Wednesday 7 April for a chance to have a cuppa and tell us what you think.
The call is out for locals from 14 years and over to sign up for a “magical community event” as part of this year’s Festival of Colour. Mass movement performance ‘Us’ will open this year’s festival in the ceremony on Sunday, April 11. It will see dancers of all abilities from the community process through town to the lake performing simple choreography in unison. Choreographed by Wellington/ Nelson-based Chloe Loftus and inspired by Pina Bausch’s ‘lines’, ‘Us’ promises to be a celebration of the unique heart and soul of Wānaka its people. Director of Chloe Loftus Dance, and with a track record of organising mass movement events, Loftus said she discovered the joy of working on large scale spectacles when she was a freelance dancer. Through her work as a performer, choreographer and now director, she had come to understand the “power and potential” of community through mass movement. “There is a legacy that’s created, it ripples out through the community and stays with them,” she said. Having organised a successful similar performance in Nelson, Loftus will adapt sixteen counts of simple gestural choreography - “suitable for all bodies and all experiences” - to the location. The movement will be a
PHOTO: Chloe Loftus Dance
Mass movement performance ‘Us’ will open this year’s festival in the ceremony on Sunday, April 11.
reflection of the land and the heart of the local community. Anyone from 14 to 100 was welcome to participate in the performance, which would include a one-hour initial rehearsal and a practice video to use at home, by signing up on the FOC website. The festival officially kicks off at 5pm on Sunday, April 11 with performances at the Lake Wānaka Centre outdoor stage, an introduction to artists and performers, and the launch of outdoor photography exhibition ‘Though the Eye of the Lens’. Following that, the community will travel as one to the shores of Lake Wānaka.
yoga
the beauty haven
NE
W!
tre
n at Wanaka Rec Ce
S P E C I A L I S T I N CO S M E T I C TAT TO O I N G B E AU T Y H AV E N
LOCATED IN CROMWELL, THE BEAUTY HAVEN ARE YOUR EXPERTS IN COSMETIC TATTOOING
Join instructor Keity Garcia as she introduces and refines your alignment in basic poses.
OFFERING PERSONALISED SERVICES IN COSMETIC TATTOOING FOR SAFE SEMI-PERMANENT EYEBROW TREATMENTS, TO PRODUCE CONSISTENT, BEAUTIFUL NATURAL RESULTS. AT THE BEAUTY HAVEN, WE UNDERSTAND THAT EVERY CLIENT IS UNIQUE, SO EACH
wh0 Ages 16 and above; all abilities welcome
ENHANCEMENT IS CUSTOMISED TO YOUR FACIAL STRUCTURE AND FEATURES
Term 1: 2 February to 16 April
TO CREATE THE PERFECT LOOK FOR YOU.
when Tuesdays before work, 7.00-8.00am Friday lunchtimes, 1.00-2.00pm
BOOK YOUR COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION NOW + MENTION THIS AD TO SAVE $50 ON YOUR TREATMENT cost
$8.00 per session if you book a five-week block in advance, or $10.00 per casual session (just turn up!) Drop by reception or contact
bookings 03 443 9334 / wrc@qldc.govt.nz
PREP
F I R S T LO O K
R E S U LTS
MA P | S H A P E | CO N S U LT
TAT TO O | C A R E
YO U R B R O W S
7A Murray Terrace, Cromwell | P: 03 445 0511 E: hello@thebeautyhaven.co.nz | W: thebeautyhaven.co.nz
THE WĀNAKA SUN
@QLDCSportRec
THURSDAY 01.04.21 - WEDNESDAY 07.04.21
qldc.govt.nz/recreation
PAGE 15
Sun Views LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
thewanakasun.co.nz
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Wānaka Skate Club deserves its dues
I was disappointed with the apology to the skatepark article. Rad Skate School and Wānaka Girls Skate Club are fantastic but Wānaka Skate Club has been going for 25 years. The people that started Wānaka Skate Club are still here in Wānaka skating. The people who were involved in the build of the first stage of the Wānaka skatepark are still here. Did you do your research and try talking to them? Have you read the Wānaka Skate Club Facebook page to see how many people were offended by the article? Also I have spoken to Mickey Rowlings whose photo was used for the article accusing dudes of scaring girls away from skatepark and the usage of drugs. He had no idea that a photo of him was being used in that way. He is a local here and is a skatepark builder who works around the country. I’m sure he would not have liked to have that image used. I don’t think using a picture that the reader can easily recognise people in was a good idea for that kind of article. I do understand how intimidating skatepark can be though. Skaters are very focused when they are skating and they need to avoid accidents. It’s an extreme sport after all. It’s fun but it does come with consequences if things go wrong. I learnt that by sitting and watching my son skating for hours for 6 years. Reika Fellows
Wānaka speed limits
Home to New World 3Parks total distance about 4km. Cardrona Valley Road for about 200m @40kph. Golf Course Road for about 1km @70kph. Ballantyne Road for about 500m @50kph. Sir Tim Wallis Drive about 300m @40kph then it reduces to 30kph for the next 300m and they throw in some speed humps. If you turn into the New World entrance road the speed limit is 50kph –but you need to hit the accelerator to achieve this as it's only about 100m long. Could have saved wasting new signs to leave it all at 50kph. But I suppose all the speeding tickets have paid for that. I have contributed $80 courtesy of the speed camera. Just got back from Invercargill City- very friendly there –speed limit throughout the city 50 kph. It was good to look at the city and not look for a different speed limit on every street! John Reid
On the matter of the 40 km/h speed zones I have several concerns regarding the recent imposition of the 40 km/h speed limits. 1. Since the claim was made that the change was “evidence-based” I wrote the deputy mayor on October 20 requesting the source data: i.e. the evidence. With his reply, he attached the report prepared by the contractor ZQN7. From this I learned that in the period from 2010 to 2017 ( 8 years ) there had been the following injury accidents; Helwick Street: 1, Ardmore Street: 0, and Brownston Street: 6. I wrote again to the deputy mayor on November 6, asking: “Are these all the data that are available ?” and sent a prompt on January 3. Not having received a reply I conclude these are all the records there are. If we combine these records and average them it is fair to say that in the period from 2010 to 2017, in the Wānaka CBD there was less than one injury accident per year. While any accident is regrettable such a record is hardly a clarion call for reform. 2. I am concerned about “the brief ” given to the contractor ( ZQN7). It is inconceivable that had they returned a recommendation to make no change to the existing speed limits they would have been rewarded with $530,000. This suggests that the QLDC explicitly required them to justify a decision they had already made or were determined to make. But did they do so? See item 1 above. 3. I recently drove to Dunedin and noticed that every community, plus two that I bypassed (Cromwell and Clyde), is content with an urban speed limit of 50 km/h. Of these dozen or so several have far higher traffic densities than Wānaka. So what prompted the change? Is Wānaka demonstrably different to these other towns, or is the QLDC out of touch with the community it is meant to serve? Rich.d Paxman
Off street parking requirements Regarding the Government's edict that off street parking will not be required for future residential and business developments, one only has to see the congestion on Tenby St. Julie Ann Genter, the Green MP and Government “parking expert” is naïve in the extreme if she thinks that cars will become obsolete in the near future, and obviously she expects the ratepayers to sort the parking mess which her thinking will create. At least Quentin Smith is on the case, as we as a community may have to push back some of the very costly and probably ineffective Central Government demands. Cycleways where they are easy to install are a good start. The Luggate – Wānaka highway with its relatively flat and wide verge for example. Graham Taylor
The Council Word Help shape our district’s future!
Lakeside Road closure
We’re currently taking submissions on a draft Ten Year Plan. QLDC prepares a Ten Year Plan every three years in consultation with residents from throughout the Queenstown Lakes District, covering all of the services we provide and projects that we propose to deliver or begin within the next ten years. Head to letstalk.qldc.govt.nz for more information. Submissions close on Monday 19 April 2021 at 5.00pm.
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.
Draft Spatial Plan for the district
To receive The Wānaka Sun direct to your inbox every Thursday email hello@thewanakasun.co.nz with the subject 'Digital Version'
QLDC has developed a draft Queenstown Lakes Spatial Plan which proposes a vision and framework for how and where our district will grow in the future. It will guide decisions and investment across local, regional and central government to ensure we’re delivering the best possible future for our community. Head to letstalk.qldc.govt.nz for more information. Submissions close on Monday 19 April 2021 at 5.00pm.
Are you applying for a community grant? This year, anyone applying for a community grant must do so through the draft Ten Year Plan 2021-2031 submission process, even if you normally receive an annual grant or rent costs. Get more information and make a submission at letstalk.qldc.govt.nz
WCB “Pop in” session Come along to the Wānaka Community Hub on Wednesday 7 April for a chat with your local Wānaka Community Board members about local issues, big or small. They’ll be there from 12.00pm-1.00pm and hope to see you there!
Social basketball league Registration is now open for the annual social basketball league at Wānaka Rec Centre. Monday evenings from 19 April to 31 May. Suitable for adults and students Year 11 and up. Mixed teams essential. Spaces limited – $270 per team. For more info and a rego form visit qldc.govt.nz/basketball, call 03 443 9334 or drop by the Rec Centre.
www.qldc.govt.nz PAGE 16
THURSDAY 01.04.21 - WEDNESDAY 07.04.21
THE WĀNAKA SUN
thewanakasun.co.nz
Sun Views
EDITORIAL
Australia: natural disasters on colossal scale
Sponsored by
Aussie - really knows how to do a natural disaster.
Pat Deavoll
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
In the middle of 2019, I was lucky enough to do a 14,000km lap around Australia on my motorcycle. At the time Australia was in the middle of the significant drought, the worst since 1902, and I did see some sad sights! Three I found particularly heart-breaking. The first was when I was riding along a very lonely dirt road in the Northern Territory and it was hot as hell. There was literally nothing growing but dead sticks. Then out of nowhere, I came across half a dozen brahman-type cattle - the skinniest, boniest cattle I had ever seen. There wasn't a blade of grass for them to eat, heaven knows where the nearest water was, and they had no shade. These cattle were living on dirt and had a look of abject misery... I couldn't believe that they were still alive. When I saw the second sight, I'd looped down into New South Wales which had been in drought for years. Again, there was no grass, but at least there were some trees. Somewhere near Broken Hill, a farmer had fed out a line of grain to his stock. These gaunt scraggy sheep were munching for their lives. But amongst the sheep, I kid you not, were kangaroos, hoeing down on the grain. I was flabbergasted. Even the kangaroos couldn't find enough to eat. Apparently, there are 28 million kangaroos in New South Wales alone, all competing for feed with the stock. For the third, I'd pulled up for a rest several hundred kilometres along the road when I noticed a bunch of sheep standing in a circular mob. It took a while for me to realise that they were standing in a dried-out pond. Just standing there, ragged and encrusted in red dirt waiting for someone to turn on the tap. At the time it wrung my heart. So, I find it hard to believe that New South Wales has been subjected recently to the worst floods in 100 years. Many of the areas affected by floods were afflicted with the same extreme drought and the wildfires of the summer of
THE WĀNAKA SUN
PHOTO: Aljazeera
2020. Apparently burn-scarred landscapes often produce more runoff during extreme rain events because the heat from fires reduces the capacity of the soil to absorb and hold on to water. Furthermore, fire strips away plants and trees that could intercept raindrops before they reach the ground. At least 40,000 people were evacuated and several died across New South Wales, while farmers suffered significant crop and livestock losses. Back in New Zealand, our summer hasn’t proved as hot as last year. In 2020 we had temperatures into the mid-30s, Wakefield almost burnt down in a forest fire and irrigators were going flat out all over the country. Apparently, the hot air was getting dragged over from Australia which at the time was in the midst of its own heat wave. Usually, the Tasman Sea changes this, but in 2020 it was warmer than usual, so the air arrived warmer than it often had, according to NIWA principal scientist Chris Brandolino. Data shows conclusively that temperatures have already risen by 1C in New Zealand over the 77 years 1931-2008. Last year was the country's warmest year since records began and the five warmest years on record have occurred in the previous 20 years. European scientists are forecasting that the next four years could be unusually warm worldwide. Here in New Zealand, scientists say the likelihood of a heat wave rises when global mean temperatures are higher. So watch out for next summer everyone. Slip slap slop. But getting back to Australia, boy, in keeping with the size of the country, which is greater than that of the USA, its natural disasters happen on a huge scale. We have a drought in Canterbury, in Oz it affects the whole country. A flood in Northland, but in Aussie they cover colossal areas. Massive forest fires that kill people. Even state-wide mouse plagues. So, living in a small island nation at the ends of the earth has its benefits.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR To submit a letter for possible publication in the Wānaka Sun, please send it via email to editor@thewanakasun.co.nz. Letters can also be sent by private message on our Facebook page. Letters may be edited or abridged. Letters of no more than 300 words are preferred.
Crimeline Wallbank B Ben Senior Constable, NZPD Well, another Lenten period comes to an end and it is time the celebrate the Paschal Triduum (Easter) next weekend. It gives us time to reflect on the period of fasting and abstinence that has hopefully prepared us well for Easter Festivities. Hopefully we will have more visitors in town over the holiday period so please drive with care whilst in Wānaka, whether you’re commuting around town, or going to and from your holiday destinations. So, this week. While we are noticing an end of summer wind-down in town, things are still keeping us busy. Earlier in the week, officers helped a young person and their family after they were reported missing. They were found safe and well and reunited with parents. Later, Police had to intervene when a young male drew attention to himself in the Dinosaur Playground area due to a level of intoxication. Appropriate care was provided, and he was returned to a place of safety to sober up. A male was apprehended by Police for his totally unacceptable behaviour towards QLDC staff during the week, resulting in several calls from the public regarding his outbursts in town. The lovely people of this town won’t tolerate it, and neither will we.
THURSDAY 01.04.21 - WEDNESDAY 07.04.21
Alcohol and driving came into play again during the week, with a person apprehended for excess breath alcohol. Unfortunately, this was as a result of a motor vehicle collision on the Crown Range Road. This driver drove on to Wānaka before crashing. It was a fortunate outcome that no-one was seriously hurt from the collision. Officers also began an investigation into some family harm matters that had taken some time for the victim to feel strong enough to talk about it. Remember, there is no time-limit, and we will always listen when you are ready. More positive alcohol intervention work was done over the Friday/Saturday night period, and the weekend evenings went on without too much to report to you all. Over the weekend break, our day shift crew investigated another family situation, and spent some time mediating a couple towards what is hopefully a positive outcome. Let us help our Easter visitors to enjoy their stay prior to the commencement of shoulderseason into another Wonderful Wānaka Winter. This period would be a good time to get the vehicles ready for the winter road conditions that lie ahead. Have a look at the Warrant of Fitness and Registration - the Covid lockdown amnesty period has long since gone and it is very important to ensure your vehicles safety and reliability. Have a good week and enjoy the chocolates and hot crossed buns.
PAGE 17
Sun Classifieds
thewanakasun.co.nz
TRADES AND SERVICES CHICKEN
HOT CHICKEN & CHIPS
TRENCHING & EXCAVATION Mt Iron Trenching & Excavation Ltd Truck Driver / Excavator operators needed Experience required. These positions are full time. The successful applicant would be part of a busy, friendly team and receive a great remuneration package.
NOW AVAILABLE AT CALTEX WANAKA
Phone Murray 027 443 5400
WATER BLASTING
INTERIORS
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
Insurance Jobs Interior/Exterior Repaints Bathroom Renovations
Small Gib Stopping Jobs Small Extensions Air BnB Extensions
021 531 977
southernmaintenance@hotmail.com
CARWASH
WAREHOUSE
O
NO PEN W
WAREHOUSES TO LEASE
• DOGWASH • AUTO & JETWASHES • VACUUMS • LAUNDROMAT
87 & 199 m2 - Kitchenette, bathroom, carparks, street & platform signage, 7.95m high, office areas.
Cnr Deering & McCormick Streets, Three Parks
Ph Matt on 0212277551
NATIVES Hardy, native plants, small home native nursery open by appointment at Queensberry. Willowbank nursery on Facebook. $5 small grade, $14 2.5L pots and $22 4L pots, grasses start at $3. Hebes, Flax, Groundcover and Trees. Free local delivery on orders $100 and over. 10% discount on bulk orders. Phone 027 516 5519, or email nativenursery@outlook. co.nz Autumn is the time to be planting. Look forward to helping you with your planting requirements.
STORAGE
Clean, dry, safe storage available now. Ezystor Self Storage, 12 Gordon Road, Wānaka, Ph: 021 242 1630. PAGE 18
PUBLIC NOTICE
COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITY OWN A WELLBEING BUSINESS? Wānaka Recreation Centre is inviting expressions of interest from experienced local health and wellbeing practitioners to rent a 9sqm room adjacent to the reception desk. For more info email allan.wainwright@qldc.govt.nz. Submissions close 16 April.
TRADES & SERVICES ADVERTS FROM
$50+GST
THURSDAY 01.04.21 - WEDNESDAY 07.04.21
NOTICE
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.
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.
SUN TEAM WĀNAKA’S INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER ISSUE 1020
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.
WWW.THEWANAKASUN.CO.NZ
SERVICE Free legal advice. COMMUNITY LAW are here Thursday 8th April. Call Community Networks to make an appointment. 443 7799. Alpine Community Development Trust (governance body for Community Networks Wānaka and LINK Upper Clutha) AGM. Tuesday 13th April 5 pm at Wānaka Community Hub. JP SERVICES are available at Community Networks every Tuesday from 1-2pm and Friday from 10:30-11:30am. Please book your appointment by ringing Community Networks on 443 7799. WHEELS TO DUNSTAN is our community “door to door” shuttle service to Dunstan Hospital, Alexandra specialist appointments, and links with the St John Health Shuttle to Dunedin Hospital. For bookings, please call Community Networks on 443 7799. The Food Bank is here to help the community. If you need a food parcel, please call Community Networks on 443 7799 or pop in and see us at the Community Hub, 34 McDougall St. Feeling a bit anxious, overwhelmed or just need someone to talk to? FREE CALL OR CALL 1737 anytime, 24 hours a day OR VISIT W W W.CO M M U N I T Y NETWORKS.CO.NZ Wānaka Pharmacy is your local pharmacy. We’re the big pharmacy at the top of Helwick Street - open from 8 to 6 Monday to Saturday and 10 to 6 on Sundays. Ph 443 8000. The Salvation Army Family Store is open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and Saturdays 9.30am to 4pm and most statutory holidays. We look forward to seeing you in our wonderful store.
THE WĀNAKA SUN
Sun Sport / Classifieds
thewanakasun.co.nz
Wānaka Premiers go down to South City Royals Wānaka travelled to Dunedin for round two of the Otago premiership to take on the newly formed South City Royals (SCR) at Tahuna Park. The newly formed team showed no mercy to the travelling Wānaka side. It was even opening 10 minute period but for the majority of the next 80 minutes South City punished the somewhat lacklustre visitors. The Royals continually won possession in Wānaka’s half and countered quickly to run out to a 4 -0 lead after 32 minutes. Wānaka had a couple of half chances and a one on one between Steve Pleskun and the SCR keeper Whittaker but the Wānaka striker was denied by a fine save. The half ended with Wānaka finally getting some reward as Pleskun tapped in from close range following Whittaker’s save from a shot from Tomas Tinka in the 46th minute. Straight from the kick off Wānaka gained possession and captain Thomas Van Hees played a cross field ball to Brandon Dickson who's first time pass linked up with young Jack Lanigan. Lanigan then slipped a well weighted pass to Ethan Arratia. Arratia shimmied past the first defender then played a fake shot with his right foot to beat the next defender. He then hit a well placed left foot shot under Whittaker to give Wānaka two goals in two minutes and get them back into the game with a 2-4 half time score line.
Half time and Wānaka identified their lack of ability to keep possession in their own half. The need to score next and keep the pressure on SCR was imperative. Straight from the kick off Wānaka created another great chance as an interchange of passes had the ball finding Pleskun who shimmed across the 18 yard box to find space and his well timed shot could only find Whittakers safe hands. Over the previous seasons Pleskun has continually found the net from these positions but it wasn't to be today. That chance was one of the last for Wānaka as they all but self combusted. SCR seemed to score at will at 10 minute intervals for the remainder of the game starting with an own goal in the 51st minute and a penalty in the 58th which sealed Wānaka’s fate with still 30 minutes to play. The final score of 10-2 was sadly a record loss for the visiting Wānaka team who will need to tidy up a number of areas in the following weeks. Man of the match went to Scott Mitchell in the midfield who gave everything as he tried to rally his team mates. Wānaka will host the unbeaten University side on Easter Saturday at the Wānaka Rec Centre at 2:45 pm. WAFC Premier Reserves had a very disappointing result against last year’s champions, going down 9-0 at Jacks Point in Queenstown and at the Event Centre the WAFC 3rd team put
SITUATION VACANT
JOURNALIST REQUIRED Be part of the small team responsible for producing our popular weekly newspaper. • You will have the relevant journalism qualifications, and a minimum of two years' experience writing for a recognised media organisation. • You will have existing local contacts and the ability to connect with the wider community. • You will also have an eye for community news, strong writing ability and photography skills, and the ability to meet strict deadlines.
Based in Wānaka with an immediate start, the hours for this position are flexible. PHOTO: WAFC
This is a fantastic opportunity for a passionate journalist who enjoys a challenge! If this sounds you, please forward your application with your CV and cover letter to:
WAFC midfielder and match MVP Scott Mitchell square off.
up a good fight but went down to The Classics from Queenstown 6-0. Next week the Central Otago League will take Easter off and resume on Saturday April 10th. – By WAFC
The Wānaka Sun, PO Box 697, Wānaka, admin@thewanakasun.co.nz
PUBLIC NOTICE
N o t i c e b o a rd | P a p a P ā n u i RESOURCE CONSENT APPLICATION
You may make a submission by sending a written or electronic submission to Queenstown Lakes District Council (details below). The submission should be in the format of Form 13. Copies of this form are available on the website www.qldc.govt.nz/services/resource-consents/application-forms-and-fees#other_forms
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ACT 1991 Details of the resource consent application and submission forms are available in the offices at Queenstown Lakes District Council, 10 Gorge Road, Queenstown; 74 Shotover Street, Queenstown and 47 Ardmore Street, Wānaka during normal office hours (8.00am to 5.00pm). You can also download these from our website www.qldc.govt.nz/ services/resource-consents/notified-resource-consents#public-rc or via our edocs website using the RM number as the reference www.edocs.qldc.govt.nz/Account/Login
Address for Service for Consent Authority:
1. D and S Brent (RM210037)
Dated: 1 April 2021 Signed by QUEENSTOWN LAKES DISTRICT COUNCIL
What is proposed: To undertake a three lots subdivision and to establish a residential building platform on each lot. The proposed lot sizes are as follows: Lot Number
Size
Building Platform
Lot 1
2Ha
1000m2 (31.62m x 31.62m
Lot 2
2Ha
1000m2 (31.62m x 31.62m
Lot 3
44Ha
1000m2 (31.62m x 31.62m
Riverbank Road, Wānaka. Legally described as Lot 3 Deposited Plan 383485 held in Record of Title 333154. ADDRESS FOR SERVICE FOR APPLICANT: D & S Brent C/- Nicole Malpass nicole@ipsolutions.nz IP Solutions 15 Cliff Wilson Street, Wānaka, 9305 The Council planner processing this application on behalf of the Council is Erin Stagg, who may be contacted by phone at 03 450 0331 or email at erin.stagg@qldc.govt.nz. Submissions will be received until 4 May 2021, and must be served on the Consent Authority, Queenstown Lakes District Council, Private Bag 50072, Queenstown 9348 or email rcsubmission@qldc.govt.nz. These must be dated, signed by you, and include the following information: Your name, email address (preferred), postal address and telephone number. Details of the application in respect of which you are making the submission including location and the Resource Consent number. Whether you support or oppose the application. Your submission, with reasons. The decision you wish the consent authority to make. Whether you wish to be heard in support of your submission.
Any person may make a submission on the application, but a person who is a trade competitor of the applicant may do so only if that person is directly affected by an effect of the activity to which the application relates that: a) adversely affects the environment; and b) does not relate to trade competition or the effects of trade competition.
rcsubmission@qldc.govt.nz 03 441 0499 www.qldc.govt.nz
Notice of Decisions on QLDC Proposed District Plan – Stage 3 & 3b
The effect of the decisions is to adopt the recommendations of the Independent Hearings Panel to confirm amended provisions for the following chapters and associated District Plan web mapping application:
The location in respect of which this application relates is situated at:
3. 4. 5. 6.
Email Phone Website
Pursuant to clause 10 and 11 of Schedule 1 of the Resource Management Act 1991, public notice is hereby given as of 1 April 2021 that the Queenstown Lakes District Council (Council) made decisions on the submissions and further submissions to Stage 3 & 3b of the District Plan review at its meeting on 18 March 2021.
Access is proposed from Riverbank Road.
1. 2.
Queenstown Lakes District Council Private Bag 50072, Queenstown 9348 10 Gorge Road, Queenstown 9300
Chapter 18A General Industrial and Service Zone Chapter 19A Three Parks Commercial Chapter 19B Three Parks Business Chapter 20 Settlement Zone Chapter 39 Wāhi Tūpuna Chapter 46 Rural Visitor Zone Arthurs Point North Rezoning Residential and Business Mixed Use Design Guidelines Variation – 101 Ballantyne Road Variation – Fire Fighting Water Supply and Access Variation – Glare Variation – Location specific Subdivision Variation – Open Space and Recreation Zone The Proposed District Plan is amended in accordance with the Council’s decisions from the date of this public notice. The decision reports and decisions versions of the chapters and web mapping application together with the reasons for the decisions are available for inspection for free at the following locations: • QLDC website: www.qldc.govt.nz/your-council/district-plan/proposed-district-plan/decisions-of-council • Online access to the decisions is available at QLDC Libraries and offices without charge A person who made a submission on Stage 3 & 3b of the review may appeal this decision to the Environment Court within 30 working days of the service of the notice of the decisions (by 18 May 2021) For further information on making an appeal see the Environment Court website — www.environmentcourt.govt.nz/ court-process/lodge-appeal-or-application/ For further information on the district plan review please contact Queenstown Lakes District Council on 03 441 0499 or email PDPenquiries@qldc.govt.nz
Private Bag 50072 | 47 Ardmore Street Wānaka Phone 03 443 0024 | www.qldc.govt.nz
THE WĀNAKA SUN
THURSDAY 01.04.21 - WEDNESDAY 07.04.21
PAGE 19
Sun Sport
thewanakasun.co.nz
Career bests in Switzerland
Finn Bilous: “I’ve got some things to work on over the NZ winter and I’m already amped for the next contest we have.”
RESIDENTIAL SECTIONS PRICED FROM 80
81
82
83
RO
AD
C
84
30
85 31
86 87
29
88
69
89
28 33
70
92 67
27
ROAD D
25
77
75
78
ROAD A
62
56
57
55
58
42
60
52
61
51
106
108
44
45
16
15
14
115 116
117
107
50
118
127
119 46
47
48
121
49
ROAD C
17
109
ROAD D
43
11
110
59
53
54
41
18
99
111
105
40
19
100
ROAD F
39
20
79
104
38
21
101
103
23
22
97 98
102 63
74
37
96
64
76
73
36 24
95
C
35
65
72
94
AD
26
66
71
93
91
RO
34
90
68
E
32
AD
ST
al o rov t pp al a s and n fi l v to tai da ct de , n je s a b n Su sio ces en Pri Dim
RO
WANAKA
E G A
1
nD tio a t PHOTOS: FIS Freeski S n mb Margaux Hackett finished in 8th place in the women’s Freeski finals, achieving her career best FIS World Cup alo .pe Av w Slopestyle result. ww
ROAD A
The focus of our Kiwi snowsports athletes moves to Switzerland this week as the season in the US draws to a close. The FIS Freeski and Snowboard Slopestyle World Cups were held in Silvaplana over the weekend, with Wānaka freeskiers Finn Bilous and Margaux Hackett finishing in 7th and 8th place respectively on Sunday in the final Freeski Slopestyle World Cup of the season. After a solid first run, Bilous slipped off the grab on his second run while attempting a Switch Right Triple Rodeo 1260, and said he knew with the high level of riding in the competition it would not be enough. “I’ve got some things to work on over the NZ winter and I’m already amped for the next contest we have,” he said.
Road
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
Hackett finished in 8th place in the women’s Freeski finals, achieving her career best FIS World Cup Slopestyle result. “I am stoked to be in Switzerland and to make finals after a crazy season. Would have loved to put down a clean run but super happy to be here and to be able to compete this year,” she said. The following day saw another career best world cup result for 18-year-old Queenstown Snowboarder Cool Wakushima, who finished in 7th place in her second ever Slopestyle World Cup. Wakushima finished second in her qualification heat but came unstuck in both her final runs. Nevertheless, she said she was “stoked to be in there with the other girls” and was looking forward to a break before the New Zealand winter. Tiarn Collins (Queenstown) also finished in 15th position, despite qualifying through to finals in second position.
To Gordon
Joanna Perry
13
12
11
10
122
126
120 125 123
AD
124
B
RO
13 131
ROAD B
132
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Ava
Campbell Road
QUENTIN LANDRETH M 0273 555 399
PAGE 20
DEBBIE FORREST M 027 348 3275
135
9
Doug Ledgerwood Drive
lon
Stat ion Ro
ad
133 134
136
Q Realty Limited (Licensed REAA 2008)
GRANT WINSLOE M 021 362 306
THURSDAY 01.04.21 - WEDNESDAY 07.04.21
THE WĀNAKA SUN
137
138