Liam Wiarepo
INSIDE THIS WEEK Views: Page 9 Jobs: Page 10 Sport: Page 12
Our Labour candidate.
PAGE 7
Queenstown Airport 85 years old.
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THUR 20.08.20 - WED 26.08.20
PAGE 2 EDITION 988
DELIVERED AND FREE
A happy bunch of footballers!
PHOTO: Leon Roode
The Mount Aspiring College Boys 1st XI Football team took home the RT Cup on Saturday after winning all three of their games and only conceding one goal. Front top left to right: Red Simpson, Ethan Arratia , Lukas Schafe, Levi Fletcher , Ben McNabb. Middle left to right: Oliver Clements, Blake Lang. Theo Greenlees, Jack Lanigan, Xion Lippe. Back left to right: Michael Gealogo, Toa Roode. Jack Liddel. Oscar Humphreys. More on page 12.
Are we scaring off our domestic visitors? Pat Deavoll
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
hen Brendan and Laura Peat, born
W and bred Kiwis in their 20’s, cruised
into Wānaka in their moderatelysized motorhome, they were aware that they would see no internationals. Instead, they expected domestic travellers like themselves, enjoying the relative quiet of one of their favourite destinations.
Knowing that Wānaka was a town reliant on tourism, they expected a welcome from locals and the local body that supported it. So they were wholeheartedly disappointed to receive a $60 ticket for parking in what they thought was a "considerate" and out of the way location beyond the town centre.This was the carpark at Pembroke Park on Dungarvon St. "We thought it was unjustified as the ticket rationale was being the subjective measure of 'inconsiderate parking' despite the car
park having many car parks available,” said Brendan Peat. “ We had purposefully chosen a park out the way, attempting to be considerate. A car and trailer were also taking up two parks (unsure if ticketed), and we were only overhanging the rear park by less than half a metre. The camper beside us, taking up even less room also got a ticket," The Peats have since tried to reverse the ticket but found it difficult to do so. After emailing the Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC),
they were given a survey to find out if they were "eligible" for a potential waiver. The questions were related to the details of their vehicle and whether they could prove they were there for a medical emergency. The result was that the Peats were not eligible for a waiver. They have since emailed QLDC again, asked for the appropriate person to talk to and given their rationale for a waiver. They are now waiting for the outcome with bated breath Continued on page 3
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Independent research by leading consumer magazine Reader’s Digest found G.J. Gardner Homes to be New Zealand’s Most Trusted Home Builder once again. Talk to your local Wanaka GJ’s team today and see why more New Zealanders trust G.J. Gardner to build their homes year after year.
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Wānaka architects come Election delay gives candidates a fair shot away with wins Joanna Perry
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
PHOTOS: Supplied
Ruby Ridge House: stands out as something very special.
Pat Deavoll
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
Two local Wānaka architecture firms won awards at the 2020 NZIA Southern Architecture Awards. Condon Scott Architects won an award in the Housing category for the Ruby Ridge House, and Allistair Madill Architects won an award in the Commercial Architecture category for the Wānaka Watersports facility. The awards were live-streamed at the Wānaka Community Hub last Friday evening. Judges said the Ruby Ridge house was an expertly crafted work that stood out as something extraordinary. The disciplined use of materials enhanced the curves of the built form, and the treatment of detailing was masterful. Wānaka Watersports Facility’s “richly textured and contoured façade belied the tough, functional requirements demanded by a project realised in a sensitive environmental zone,” said judges.
Wānaka Watersports Facility: The building demonstrates the value to the community of architecture that provides valuable social amenity and enhances the life of a town.
There were also significant natural obstacles to contend with, and the project was subject to intense and prolonged public scrutiny. An articulated form and complementary material selections break down the building mass so that over time it will visually blend into its setting. The design’s “sensitivity and a generosity of spirit” have won over sceptics, and the facility has become a popular community hub. “The building demonstrates the value to the community of architecture that provides valuable social amenity and enhances the life of a town,” said judges. Convenor of the judging Stacey Farrell said: “It’s great to see architecture in our region in such resilient good health. It was refreshing to encounter so many projects pushing boundaries and embracing new technologies in the extreme climate we call home. “Architects, clients and builders are demonstrating that we need to go over and above minimum requirements of thermal comfort and sustainability.”
Wanaka Sun Gynaecologist Ben Sharp will regularly be working from Wanaka Lakes Health Centre from mid-August 2020. To book an appointment, talk to your GP or simply call Oxford Women’s Health on 03 379 0555. Ben provides expert advice and treatment for a wide range of women’s health issues including pelvic pain, endometriosis, pain during sex, urinary incontinence and heavy periods.
PHOTO: Supplied
The Prime Minister announced on Monday that election day had been pushed back from September 19.
and something I look forward to doing.” Labour candidate Liam Wairepo added that this was a “short delay” to “give the Electoral Commission a bit more time to prepare to deliver a safe, accessible and credible election, “which I’m sure all New Zealanders will be able to appreciate.” “Moving the date by four weeks gives all political parties a fair shot to campaign and delivers New Zealanders certainty without unnecessarily long delays. “The Prime Minister has said she will not change the date again as the whole world will continue to deal with the new realities of Covid for some time to come,” said Wairepo.
Queenstown Airport marks 85 years
PHOTO: Supplied
Mayor Jim Boult: “The ‘terminal’ in those days was something of a shed, and the facilities were rudimentary indeed.”
Joanna Perry
Gynaecologist Ben Sharp will regularly be working from Wanaka Lakes Health Centre from mid-August 2020. Ben provides expert advice and treatment for a wide range of women’s health issues including pelvic pain, endometriosis, pain during sex, urinary incontinence and heavy periods.
To book an appointment, talk to your GP or simply call Oxford Women’s Health on 03 379 0555. oxfordwomenshealth.co.nz
PAGE 2
The Electoral Commission is adjusting its plans to deliver the 2020 General Election and referendums on Saturday, October 17 after the Prime Minister announced on Monday that election day had been pushed back from September 19. “Confirmation of the date provides certainty to the public about when the election will be held,” said Alicia Wright, Chief Electoral Officer. “We have been considering alternative election dates and are confident we can revise our existing arrangements for October 17.” “These are challenging times for everyone, but we will have measures in place so that people can vote in person at a voting place this October.” The Electoral Commission had always planned to run the election if New Zealand was at Alert Level 2, putting health measures in place such as contact tracing, hand sanitiser and physical distancing in voting places, and providing protective gear for staff if needed. MP for Waitaki Jacqui Dean said the extension “was needed in order to focus on COVID-19 and to ensure we have a fair election. It gives me the opportunity to get out around the electorate and campaign properly in person which is important
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
Queenstown Airport began serving the communities of the Southern Lakes region on August 14, 85 years ago, making it one of the oldest commercial airports in New Zealand operating on its original site. In 1935, when the airport was established, the population of Queenstown was about 1,000. Today, it is approximately 28,000. Queenstown Airport Chief Executive Colin Keel said Queenstown Airport had been an integral part of the district’s fabric throughout its history, supporting and contributing to a vibrant and prosperous place. “As we mark its 85th birthday, albeit in very different circumstances than we expected when we began our planning at the start of the year, it is timely to reflect on the gumption and pioneering spirit of those who founded the airport and developed this alpine aviation base over the decades,” he said. Queenstown Airport welcomed its first international flight on 1 July 1995 operated by Air New Zealand from Sydney, connecting Australians to New Zealand’s home of alpine adventure in time for the ski season. In 2014, the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) approved the airport’s
THURSDAY 20.08.20 - WEDNESDAY 26.08.20
evening flights safety case. It was an historic moment for Queenstown Airport and a major milestone for New Zealand aviation and tourism when domestic and trans-Tasman after-dark flights then began in 2016. Queenstown Lakes District Mayor Jim Boult recalled that his “first acquaintance with Queenstown Airport was in 1966 when, as a very young student pilot; my logbook tells me that I flew in from Invercargill in a Victa Airtourer. The ‘terminal’ in those days was something of a shed, and the facilities were rudimentary indeed. “I think I am right that the sealed runway did not arrive until the late 1960s, when the impending arrival of Mount Cook Airlines’ Hawker Siddeley 748 aircraft made this essential. “From those very humble beginnings, Queenstown Airport has developed over the last 85 years to be a vital gateway for the district’s economy, for locals to visit friends and whānau, and as a starting point for worldwide travel,” said Boult. Keel added the airport had always been at the heart of the community. “As we pay tribute today to those early aviation pioneers, I’d also like to acknowledge and thank the many people in our community who work at the airport now or have in the past.” “We all carry forward an important legacy as we continue to adapt and innovate in shaping the future of Queenstown Airport for generations to come.”
THE WĀNAKA SUN
thewanakasun.co.nz
Sun News
What to do with those decommissioned sewage ponds?
PHOTO: Brendan Peat
The Peat’s motorhome overhung the car park by less than a meter- is this worthy of a $60 parking fine?
Are we scaring off our domestic visitors?
PHOTO: Wānaka Sun
The decommissioned sewage ponds on Ballantyne Road- would they be suitable for a sport and recreation hub?
Pat Deavoll
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
Decommissioned sewage ponds to become a sports hub? The idea, with as many detractors as supporters, is based on a Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) proposal to rezone the 20ha oxidation ponds, on Ballantyne Road, to an active sport and recreation zone (ASRZ), A district plan hearings panel met in Wānaka last week to hear public submissions to stage three of the proposed district plan (PDP). This included presentations to create a recreational hub. These presentations indicated that half the submitters agreed with repurposing the pond site as a recreational area. However, there was a range of objections to the PDP including concerns that the site should not be limited to sports and recreation, and that it should instead be shared with other community options or general industry. Other objectors cited concerns about sports fields being built on contaminated land. In 2018 a report to council determined a shortage of winter sports fields in Wānaka and cited the sewage ponds, being large, flat, undeveloped and in public ownership, as having the potential to meet future demand, The ponds were decommissioned in 2009 and at the time zoned for light industry and mixed business use. However, the site was never developed. The council has since seen a demand for more general industrial land at Ballantyne Road and proposed that it be rezoned for this use. The site’s previous owner sold the land to the council under the Public Works Act, but if the land is no longer used for sewage ponds it could be offered back to the original owner to buy, and the council would lose ownership. Therefore, the council has an added incentive to rezone the pond site to ASRZ. If the council retains the site for the benefit of the community, then the site can be set apart by the Minister of Lands for that new work and council would retain ownership. Sporting bodies such as Sports Central and Aspiring Athletics Club (AAC) have submitted
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in support of the ASRZ. AAC coach Barbara Beable presented the club’s case to the PDP hearing’s panel, saying demand for sports grounds in Wānaka has already outstripped supply. A former Commonwealth Games medallist Beable believes Wānaka’s current track and field facilities need an upgrade. The only track and field facilities in the district are the Mount Aspiring College field, which has a 400m track and a long jump pit, both lacking in quality. Beable has been a coach at Wanaka’s AAC for the past two years. With the club close to 100 members, she believed the QLDC should set aside some land that could be developed into a track and field facility. She said it could be built in stages, the first stage to feature an eight or nine-lane grass 400m track, and all-weather run-ups for jumping and throwing events. The small, grass athletics track at the Recreation Centre hub is inadequate for competition and cannot withstand constant use from a variety of sports, she said. The decommissioned sewage ponds proximity to growth areas, transport, and existing and planned facilities at Three Parks, is a “commonsense solution and is our last chance to futureproof such a green space for Wānaka’s current and future generations,’ she said. Submissions against the ASRZ were also considered. These included a reduction in the size of the recreation zone so that it would not be built on contaminated land allowing general industrial projects to build on the contaminated land. The Southern District Health Board (SDHB) said that a risk assessment of the ponds should be completed as it was on the Hazardous Activity and Industries List. The independent hearings panel will now consider all the submissions, including zoning part of the land for industrial purposes, making a specific rule to enable community activities and the council’s proposed ASRZ option. It is hoped recommendations from the panel will be publicly notified in early 2021
Continued from page 1 Their experience when they passed through Cromwell was far different. "Cromwell had obvious large vehicle parking in the main carpark right in the middle of town and was fantastic. Ours is quite a small camper, but the large ones fitted these easily, and there were four, maybe six large parking spaces. Wānaka and Queenstown have been quite the opposite with a large number of deterrent signs such as 'no camping $200 fine', or 'no large vehicle parking," said Brendan Peat. When asked what Wānaka (and Queenstown) needed to do to accommodate campervans, Brendan Peat said: "Provide adequate parking in town to allow visitors to stay and spend money to boost the region and provide areas close to town for self-contained freedom camping. "Also not what appears to be highly critical against motorhomes with their perceived attitude and actions such as excessive fines. “What's wrong with a good old kiwi relaxed attitude and a warning saying sorry this isn't the best place to park; down the street is some motorhome parking. All this does is reiterate the revenue-gathering claims so often talked about and turn people against the area.” When the Wānaka Sun approached the QLDC on the issue, it said there was motorhome parking on McDougall St. Its response was: “To accommodate campervans we have specific spaces available in Wānaka (and Queenstown) which are longer. In Wānaka these are on McDougall Street: it is essential these spaces are utilised by campervans to not affect the flow of traffic and other vehicles. “As with all tickets issued, the person ticketed can apply for a waiver. We consider each request on a case by case basis.” But the Peats said they had no idea about the McDougall St car parks. They have tried to
Google this since and could find nothing. “I eventually found McDougall St, and it is about a 15-minute walk to town,” said Brendan Peat. “We wouldn't bother to go look around the shops from there. We have the NZ Motor Caravan (NZMCA) app which is fantastic and tells us where to get fresh water, dump stations, campgrounds etc. and the parking is not on there, although neither is Cromwell's parking. We saw no signs at all.” The Peats said they felt unwelcome in Wānaka, even though they had been “pre-warned” about the district and its “apparent distaste for motorhomes.” “We won't go into Queenstown or Wānaka much now as it's too difficult, despite it being some of our favourite places in New Zealand. And this is a common opinion- we have since found out that lots of fellow motorhomes avoid the area entirely and have done for some time.” The Peats said QLDC should be making every effort to attract domestic visitors. “For a place that relies so heavily on tourism, to have the downfall of the international market, it only makes sense to encourage the domestic market. Things like this discourage it rather than make it appealing,” said Brendan Peat “I'd hate to think how foreigners feel put in this position, and I'm sure there would be lots, and most wouldn't know where to start to fight the ticket so would pay which is why they (QLDC) make it so difficult to argue. “Gone are the days apparently of going with Dad as a kid on a Saturday afternoon to the hardware store, trailer in tow, and doing a few other odd jobs, all the while taking up two parks out the back of the carpark and not a care in the world...or a ticket.” The Wanaka Sun would welcome Letters to the Editor on this issue.
Elrick & Co provide a full range of surveying, planning and civil engineering services.
For enquiries, contact Kerry at your local Wanaka office: P: 021 427 744 E: kerry@elrick.co.nz
THURSDAY 20.08.20 - WEDNESDAY 26.08.20
PAGE 3
Sun News
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Get in quick to have your say on the lakefront Pat Deavoll
W NAKA LAKEFRONT DEVELOPMENT PLAN – STAGE TWO TE MAHERE WHAKAAHU M TE TAKUTAI O W NAKA
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
Jess Eastwood and Nikki Potts are involved in the Wānaka Podcast.
PHOTOS: Joe Murdie
Wānaka’s own podcast Ollie Blyth
journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz
A group of Upper Clutha locals launched the Wānaka Podcast on Wednesday 19 with its first episode released. The project was originally developed in lockdown and recording began soon after. The podcast will be released in seasons, with each season being presented by a new host. The founders have taken great pride in selecting a wide range of guests from various backgrounds, including retail, hospitality, athletes, artists, health practitioners, and organic food producers. “As business owners we were interested in speaking to other business owners about running business in Wānaka,” said Jo Lynch, one of the co-founders, “We have so many amazing people
in Wānaka, we felt discussions may serve as a valuable resource for other business owners or aspiring business owners.” Host Jess Eastwood added that “The podcast has been a great way to meet new Wānaka business owners and talk to them about their ideas, challenges, and how their businesses came to be. There are many similarities amongst us; fortitude and determination and also a deep love for our town. I have enjoyed hearing about the parts of doing business that are unique to Wānaka, seasonal challenges, staff, weather and of course COVID.” Why a Wānaka podcast? Lynch said:“There are so many incredible people doing amazing things, we wanted to dig a bit deeper into their approach, ideas, motivation, leadership approach and philosophies. We felt their ideas and approach may be valuable and interesting to others.”
Cromwell slip safety work complete Joanna Perry
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency’s Aspiring Highways team completed their work at the slip site near Cromwell last Friday, August 14. The work near the Deadman’s Point bridge, on SH8, involved sluicing unstable schist rocks using helicopters, establishing safe benches/flat areas for diggers to work from and an abseiling team clearing cracked or loose rock. The work began mid-July and initially required single lane traffic at this part of the highway between Cromwell and Alexandra, a key road link, until a wall of protective, rock-filled containers was installed opening the highway up to two-way traffic. Mark Stewart, Waka Kotahi Maintenance Contract Manager said: “The containers will remain on the highway shoulder, but will be moved back to allow traffic onto the main traffic lanes. However, the speed limit will be maintained at 30k/h given the narrower road width.” Stewart said there would no longer be delays for rock clearances and, apart from the area with a
PHOTO: Supplied
Apart from an area with a lower speed limit past remaining rock-filled containers, the journey will be close to business as usual again.
lower speed limit past the containers, the journey would be close to business as usual again. He thanked all regular drivers on the route for their patience and care around crews. “We intend to construct a new rockfall barrier along this section of highway in the coming months to deal with larger as well as smaller rockfall. That is being investigated now and design will follow. “The old rockfall-catch fence along SH8 worked well for smaller rocks, but not so much high velocity, larger rocks from higher up the cliff face.” Additional rock bolting to stabilise some parts of the rock face may also be needed.
The last of four public consultation sessions to consider the latest proposal for stage two of Wānaka's lakefront development will go ahead at the Three Parks New World car park on August 20, so go and give your feedback. Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) has released two concept plans for stage two and is calling for community feedback. QLDC General Manager Community Services, Thunes Cloete said that both plans featured a travel promenade along the lakefront, providing pedestrians and cyclists with the continuous access they craved. Parking would be removed from grass verges in the area, with existing trees retained and a new feature garden introduced. "In 2019, we received direction to revisit our plans for stage two with community feedback presenting opposing views. Some members of our community wanted more parking alternatives, and others wanted the Millennium Pathway to stay in its current location," Cloete said. Concept Plan #1 features the introduction of parking along the lakeside of Ardmore Street and new Millennium Pathway tiles being laid in an alternative location. Options for that are along the active travel promenade, or in and around the proposed feature garden. Concept Plan #2 features the Millennium Pathway staying in its existing location, and no parking added to Ardmore Street. Chairman of the Wanaka Community Board Barry Bruce said: "Loud and clear (from the first three feedback sessions) the car parking option is the preference. People are very conscious of car parking and easy access to the lakefront. These have indeed been something the majority of people are looking for. "At the moment, we are trying to get as much feedback as we can so that the community board can look at the information and make the right decision for the majority of the community." Bruce said the millennium tiles were an issue. "There are some people who don't want the tiles replaced, but there is a fair percentage of them that are damaged, and it will be hard to do anything with them. "The comment I have is that if we replace the tiles with similar ones that will last a lot longer – most people seem quite happy with that option," said Bruce. The path originated as a community project designed to celebrate the new millennium. Local businesses, families, individuals and organisations "purchased" tiles (the total community spend was $39,000) reflecting moments in history to pay for
CONCEPT PLAN #1
Option 1 for Stage Two of the W naka Lakefront Development Plan features car parking added along the lakeside of Ardmore Street.
MILLENNIUM TILE - PROMENADE OPTION CAR SPACES: 130
CAMPERVAN SPACES: 10
DISABILITY SPACES: 4
TOTAL SPACES: 144
MILLENNIUM TILE - GARDEN OPTION
N
FEATURES INCLUDE: Active travel promenade Proposed feature garden Existing trees to be retained MILLENNIUM PATHWAY New car parking will require new Millennium Pathway tiles to be laid in a different location, either in the proposed feature garden or along the active travel promenade.
you feel Tell us how cept Plans Con a about the of the W nak Two Plan for Stage Development nt Lakefro heading to by ovt.nz .qldc.g letstalk day Sun es ck clos pm. Feedba ust at 5.00 30 Aug 0 10m Scale 1:750 @ A3
25m
50m
PHOTOs: QLDC
Concept Plan 1. W NAKA LAKEFRONT DEVELOPMENT PLAN – STAGE TWO TE MAHERE WHAKAAHU M TE TAKUTAI O W NAKA
CONCEPT PLAN #2
Option 2 for Stage Two of the W naka Lakefront Development Plan features the Millennium Pathway staying in its existing location, and no carparking along the lakeside of Ardmore Street.
N
FEATURES INCLUDE: Active travel promenade Proposed feature garden Existing trees to be retained
you feel Tell us how cept Plans Con a about the of the W nak Two Plan for Stage Development nt Lakefro heading to by ovt.nz .qldc.g talk lets es Sunday clos ck . pm Feedba ust at 5.00 30 Aug
0 10m Scale 1:750 @ A3
25m
50m
Concept Plan 2.
the path, which was completed in November 2001. The council said if the decision was made to create new millennium tiles, a group of council staff together with community and elected members would be formed to work on the project and determine the tiles' content. The WCB and council staff are currently exploring options for the new tiles and will have some samples available for viewing in QLDC's Ardmore St office. Bruce said the comments from the three previous consultation sessions were generally positive on the proposed concept options as well as some other options suggested, including view corridors and increased parking. As far as a timeframe, Bruce said the Community Board "hadn't got down to that level yet because we are looking to find out what the community feedback is. "The plans at the moment are purely conceptual; once we get an indication of what the majority of the people prefer, then we will go back to more detailed drawings. These processes take a while, so we don't have a specific timeframe at this time. "If neither is popular? This stage two has already been put on hold once because there was an overwhelming response that people weren't happy with the proposal. We won't go ahead with anything unless there is a clear indication in one direction or the other. If there is a need to go back and revisit the concepts, that is something that will be considered."
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THURSDAY 20.08.20 - WEDNESDAY 26.08.20
THE WĀNAKA SUN
Sun SnowSport
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NEWS IN BRIEF Recognising World Humanitarian Day August 19 recognised World Humanitarian Day, which honours humanitarian aid workers across the world. The day was established by the United Nations (UN) in 2009 after the UN headquarters in Iraq was bombed, killing 22 including the UN high commissioner for human rights. Humanitarian aid workers assist suffering people globally, including those in conflict zones, or those affected by natural disasters. Barnstorming Weekend postponed The Warbirds over Wānaka event of a weekend of Barnstorming Rides has been cancelled due to COVID concerns and a poor weather forecast. The rides will take place later in the year. Auckland caravan company applies for consent Queenstown Lakes District Council has received an application for consent for a small caravan park near the Orchard and Cardrona Valley Roads intersection . The company, NZDL Trustees Ltd, intends to locate 11 imported caravans, and erect a deck and shade canopy for each one. This would cater for a maximum of 36 guests, and one manager. Landscape architect Michelle Snodgrass said that the park would not compromise the existing landscape. Council is currently vetting the application. Home learning returns on TVNZ DUKE During the currently heightened alert level restrictions across the country, TVNZ has brought back Papa Kāinga TV (Home Learning NZ) to their channel TVNZ DUKE from 9am - 1pm. Specific programming information can be found on the TVNZ website. QLDC holds extraordinary meeting An extraordinary meeting of the Queenstown Lakes District Council will take place on Thursday 20 August 2020 via Zoom beginning at 11.30am. This will be live streamed on social media. Should the livestream fail, a video or text transcript will be made available online. Where are snowmobiles allowed? The Department of Conservation is reminding snowmobile users to restrict their activity to the approved areas in the Old Man Range/Kopuwai conservation area. Snowmobiling has gained popularity in recent years, but DOC say that users must keep within the approved areas to minimise noise and disturbance. Snow mobiles are not permitted on the Pisa Range. Aurora Energy holds online consultation The general public is being invited to attend an online consultation on the key issues paper for the assessment of Aurora Energy’s investment plan. The two hour session will give an overview of the paper and will gather community feedback before the draft decision is made in November. It is being held via Microsoft Teams on Thursday 20 August at 10am. To attend the meeting, email feedbackauroraplan@ comcom.govt.nz to be sent a calendar invite/more information.
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SNOW BOARDING COLUMN
Level 2 snowboarding Joanna Perry
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
I was a little nervous to be back on snow after almost two weeks in the balmy temperatures of the north island, but the sea air must have been good for me, because my snowboarding had stepped up a level - no COVID pun intended. For the first time, I didn’t feel like someone’s annoying younger sibling - constantly needing to be waited for, towed around or simply left on the baby slope while the big kids went off to play in the park. Sure, they still played in the park - but this week I could catch up with my friends at the bottom of the run, which felt pretty great. One time, I even made it to the bottom of Whitestar before my boyfriend - although he’d probably
tell you he stopped off to take one of our flatmates lunch. Now that turning feels more natural, I have space in my head to think about other things, like going faster, trying new routes, or just enjoying the ride. It also saves more of my daily pain quota for falling over whilst practising things which feel less natural, like flatbasing.and getting off the chairlift (still). It will happen. In the meantime, being confident going down all the main Cardrona runs should keep me busy. It also meant I got to watch the NZ Winter Games Obsidian park jam event on Monday, which was pretty inspiring. And since I’ve achieved most of the targets I set out for myself when the season started - stop reading now, Mum - maybe it’s time to widen the goalposts a little and add a baby jump to the list?
PHOTO: Jackson Reardon
I got to watch the NZ Winter Games Obsidian park jam event on Monday, which was pretty inspiring.
Final Obsidian sports challenge held at Cardrona Joanna Perry
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
Cardrona Alpine Resort was the host for the final Winter Games NZ sports challenge of Obsidian 2020 - the park jam - on Monday. Team Kuzma came out on top for the event (100pts) followed by Team Smoothy (80pts) and Team Wells (60pts). This was not enough to topple Team Smoothy off the top of the overall leaderboard, following the big air event - which was held at Cardrona whilst the mountain was closed to adjust to the return to Level 2 restrictions last Wednesday - and a heli-access freeride contest in the Minaret Range last week. “The athletes and organisers wanted to keep the park jam true to an old school jam format, which meant the judging criteria was around the vibe of an athlete’s run,” explained head judge, Tori Beattie. “And it came out strong in the athletes, it was great to see.” Finn Bilous, who took first in the men’s ski category, said the event was “full-on,” and “even the qualifying rounds were pretty intense.” “I had a few tricks in mind. I saw the course set up yesterday and did a few of those tricks that I wanted to do. I didn’t get the results I wanted earlier in the week so I put everything I could into this comp, so I’m stoked it worked out,” he said. Olympic bronze medallist Zoi SadowskiSynnott said she was “stoked” to win the women’s freeski and snowboard category. “The whole week has just been so fun, everyone
PHOTO: Winter Games NZ
Lake Wānaka Tourism (LWT) and Winter Games NZ have announced this week that a free outdoor film event, showcasing the final event of Obsidian, will take place in the Dunmore Street car park on August 28 at 6:30pm.
has just been so happy to be here so good vibes all around,” she said. “We’ll have to see how the mountain shred and the videographers event plays out.” The two final aspects of the competition are yet to be judged; each team has visited a local resort, enhancing natural terrain to session and exploring breathtaking sidecountry, and will now create an edit of this day for submission. Lake Wānaka Tourism (LWT) and Winter Games NZ announced this week that a free outdoor film event, showcasing the final event of Obsidian, will take place in the Dunmore Street car park on August 28 at 6:30pm. The premiere of LWT’s mini-documentary “In Search of ōura Mā (White Gold)”, which
explores the history and development of skiing and boarding in the Wānaka region, will be followed by the world premiere of the games’ creative videography edits produced by local videographers Two Bearded Men, Jase Hancox Film and Diaries Downunder. The evening will conclude with the Obsidian overall prizegiving, announcing which team is the winner of the Edgar Challenge Trophy, and interviews with the three team captains. “Anyone who lives in Wanaka should really come down to check this event out,” said Winter Games NZ communications and marketing manager Sophie Luther. “There will be lots of familiar faces, giveaways and some of the best skiing and snowboarding action caught on camera on show.”
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PAGE 5
Sun Environment
New funding available to help restore freshwater
thewanakasun.co.nz
PHOTO: DOC
In 2020 the adult kakī population increased by 30 per cent from 2019 to a total of 169 adults. This was the population’s most significant increase since the recovery programme began more than 40 years ago.
PHOTO: Pixabay
The Freshwater Improvement Fund will support initiatives that provide employment opportunities to restore wetlands, rivers and streams to health.
Pat Deavoll
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
Last week the Ministry for the Environment opened two new funding rounds of the Freshwater Improvement Fund (FIF), as part of the Jobs for Nature programme. The funding will support initiatives that provide employment opportunities to restore wetlands, rivers and streams to health. $55 million from the FIF will be available to apply for over two rounds: • the first is a short six-week open period, accepting applications between 7-21 September, and will prioritise investment ready projects • the second longer period will accept applications from 27 January-10 February
to allow applicants more time to spend developing their proposals. An additional $30 million, through the targeted Te Mana o Te Wai fund, will also be available to iwi and Māori with priority given to Māori landowners, hapū, whānau and marae groups. Te Mana o Te Wai is expected to open to applicants later this year. The concept of Te Mana o Te Wai recognises that safe and healthy freshwater is integral to the social, cultural, economic and environmental well-being of our communities. This fund will support tangata whenua to play an active role in restoring mauri of Aotearoa’s freshwater. As part of Budget 2020, $1.3 billion has been allocated to the Jobs for Nature programme. An initiative that will benefit local communities and businesses, accelerate regional economic recovery, and provide significant environmental benefits.
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100 rare kakī released into the wild Pat Deavoll
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
The Department of Conservation (DOC) is releasing 104 juvenile kakī/black stilts – the world’s rarest wading bird - into the wild in the South Island’s Mackenzie Basin last week as part of its ongoing Kakī Recovery Programme.The birds were freed into the Godley Valley in three separate releases between August 5-8, attended by classes from Twizel Area, Arowhenua and Tekapo schools. Some of these birds are the first to be reared in a new kakī brooding facility near Twizel funded primarily by international conservation organisation Global Wildlife Conservation through the support of the Sheth Sangreal Foundation, along with DOC, Meridian Energy and Genesis Energy. The Isaac Conservation and Wildlife Trust raised 24 of the birds in its breeding facilities near Christchurch. In 2020 the adult kakī population increased by 30 per cent from 2019 to a total of 169 adults. This was the population’s most significant increase since the recovery programme began more than 40 years ago. “This is a really exciting time for DOC’s kakī recovery team and all those who help us in this work. We’re seeing years of hard work to protect these critically endangered birds finally turning the tide for their recovery,” said DOC Senior Biodiversity Ranger, Dean Nelson. “It’s a collective effort with the population increase the result of both an intensive captive
breeding programme and an increase in predator control throughout the Mackenzie Basin where they live in the wild. “It’s been a tough year for wild kakī due to frequent heavy flooding during the peak of the breeding season. “Although this year has seen a reduction on previous years in the number of birds to be released, it’s still fantastic to have more than 100 young birds to release into the wild.” Kakī, alongside other rare bird species from the region, breed in braided riverbeds leaving them and their eggs exposed to severe weather events and introduced mammalian predators predominantly feral cats, stoats, weasels, ferrets and hedgehogs. This is the first year all the young kakī are being released into the Godley Valley thanks to a robust and extensive predator control programme being run there by conservation project Te Manahuna Aoraki. “Kakī are tough birds who live in extreme environments, but they need a helping hand. Te Manahuna Aoraki has increased trapping networks to now protect 80 per cent of the kakī range, we have high hopes kakī numbers will continue to increase with more predators taken out of the landscape,” said Fiona McNab, Te Manahuna Aoraki project director. “Protecting kakī and other braided river species is a team effort, and we’re building on work by DOC and Project River Recovery. We’d also like to thank all the landowners in the area who have allowed us to extend trapping networks over their land.”
Valued introduced species included in Biodiversity Strategy Pat Deavoll
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
The New Zealand Game Animal Council welcomes the inclusion of valued introduced species into Te Mana o Te Taiao - Aotearoa New Zealand Biodiversity Strategy 2020. “Valued introduced species like deer, tahr, chamois and wild pigs have been here for well over a hundred years and are extremely important to hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders,” said Game Animal Council general manager Tim Gale. “They have become part of our backcountry heritage, are a significant source of mahinga kai for many communities and provide important recreational and commercial opportunities right across New Zealand. “Valued introduced species also provide New Zealanders with critical mental health and
THURSDAY 20.08.20 - WEDNESDAY 26.08.20
wellbeing benefits and are important avenues for conservation efforts undertaken by hunting and fishing organisations and community groups. “At certain times and in certain locations valued introduced species do present a challenge for conservation and the Game Animal Council certainly doesn’t dismiss that,” said Gale. “But responsible, well-considered, sciencebased management can, as the strategy states, provide the benefits they are valued for, while also ensuring that indigenous biodiversity thrives. “The Game Animal Council was involved in the development of Te Mana o Te Taiao - Aotearoa New Zealand Biodiversity Strategy 2020 and we look forward to working with DOC and other stakeholders to help achieve its goals.” The Game Animal Council’s submission on the initial Biodiversity Strategy Discussion Document is available at https://bit.ly/33JVyhe.
THE WĀNAKA SUN
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Sun News
Liam Wairepo: Fairness, MAC Formal - better late equality, responsibility than never
Last week, due to a technical hitch, we were unable to show you these beautiful photos of the Mt Aspiring College Formal. But here they are for this week's edition. Enjoy!
Pat Deavoll
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
When the Wānaka Sun contacted Liam Wairepo, Labour candidate for the Waitaki electorate, he was in a bit of a flap, trying to organise a visit by Helen Clark. She was on her way to Dunedin the next day to speak on the effects of the COVID recovery in New Zealand. But he was bright and bubbly, as befitting at 21, the youngest ever Labour Party candidate to stand for election. Wairepo is the baby of a Māori family of seven, raised by a single mum. We were definitely lower socio-economic, he says. He was the first of his family to go to University and the first to show any interest in politics. "I think my upbringing was something that drove me towards politics," he says. "I wondered why my siblings weren't engaging in politics especially as a vulnerable householdwe had so much skin in the game; we should have been engaged." So how did you get into politics? I was always a bit of a nerd in high school. I was always interested when politicians came to our school and would ask the hard questions. I'd always been very independent and matured quite early. I decided to leave school early and go to University. I found out you could do university entrance while you were at University. After applying, two weeks later, I got an email saying I was accepted. At that stage, I hadn't even told my mum what I was doing. Then two weeks later, I moved out of home to go to Otago University. I had just turned 17 I did political science and neuroscience at University At Otago, I got heavily involved in the Labour Party, helping out with local body campaigns with the likes of Mariane Hobbs, who is now a good friend. I didn't want to be a neuroscientist, stuck in a lab. I always wanted to be out and about talking to people. I enjoy the campaigning because I get out door knocking and finding out what worries the communities. I want to talk. I was voted in as the chairperson of Young Labour which got me into a job in parliament in policy and research for David Clarke. That was an incredible experience for someone in their early 20s. When did you decide to stand for Waitaki? It was always on my mind. I had family and friends living throughout the electorate, so Waitaki was still going to be the place I was going to go. But I didn't expect to be a candidate at 21, that's for sure. The opportunity arose just before Xmas. I did studies on the option- and talking to people around the district I found that they wanted a change, so I put my hand up. People were feeling at the time their current MP wasn't servicing them, and there was a real need for change. Since then its been a real whirlwind; its been crazy busy journey but it has been enriching It's been good to listen to these people and hear what their problems are. So do you have a day job? I still work for parliament. I'm also the president of the Residential Staffers Union, which has been quite busy. But this has all been put on the back burner while I go full-time campaigning. Why the Labour Party? Its been totally from the experience of my upbringing. I always looked up to Helen Clark, who was embracing the policies that affected our most vulnerable communities. The Labour Party was the one that was helping
THE WĀNAKA SUN
PHOTO: Supplied
Campaigning has been a real whirlwind; its been a crazy busy journey but it has been enriching.
people, the working class, and so that's why I went for the Labour Party. As I got more and more involved, I started to meet some incredible people- MPs and the Prime Minister – and that cemented in me the values I believed in. Fairness, equality, responsibility. Also, the Labour Party has some incredible ministers from diverse backgrounds; from early childhood educators to doctors. Labour represents diversity with the 50-50 gender split on the party list. Those are the values I care about. What are you advocating for the Waitaki region? At the moment, Waitaki is a significant rural community, so that has its challenges. I have been meeting with farmers from all around the electorate and what I am hearing is that a lot of them are environmentalists. They live off the land, and they do care. There are a few rotten eggs who paint farmers in a bad light- but it's just not valid on the whole. What I'm hearing is that farmers are supportive of these progressive policies. However, there is a concern at the speed at which they are being rolled out. Farmers want there to be longevity in their practices – so I'm advocating for sensible outcomes for farmers as well as climate action. Also, mental health is a massive problem for farmers- but the rural trusts that deal with these problems arent being serviced. The meth problem in Oamaru is a biggie – but there are no mental health or addictions services that are appropriate for the area. If we want that to change, we need to make sure those services are available for people. Recently when I was in Wānaka, I talked to Wānaka Tourism, the Chamber of Commerce and the QLDC. We were talking about how there hasn't been enough expenditure on infrastructure, and there are growing pains in Wānaka. Physical infrastructure from the waterways to the sewage systems are under strain. It comes down to at the very least, elected advocacy for the region from the MP What else are you advocating for? At the moment, the biggest frustration that I hear is that the district doesn't have a team advocate. So that's the point I want to make- I want to advocate for the community in parliament. It doesn't matter what side of the fence you sit on; the MP is there to represent the whole electorate, not just the people who vote for them. So my doors are open for anyone who wants to discuss issues, and I will represent them Do you see your age as a hiccup? I have stamina and energy to get out into the third-largest electorate in New Zealand. We must have someone willing to travel around the voters and represent the issues. To be a politician? That's what I am passionate about- to serve the community.
Ollie Blyth (17), Vale Roberts (16).
PHOTOS: Jodie James
Georgia Evans (17), Jessie McKenzie (17), Paris Woodhouse (17), Kate Goodsell (17), Tess Martin (18).
Letitia Haig (16), Hunter Burke (17), Abhishek Rameshanand (16). Quinn Curtis (17), Ines Stephani (18)
Abigail Winter (17), Ewan Little (17), Annika Gibson (17), Emily Heath (17).
We’re always here if you need us.. Any Health concerns? Your GP is just a phone call away. 03 443 0710 www.WanakaMedical.co.nz 23 Cardrona Valley Road, Wanaka
THURSDAY 20.08.20 - WEDNESDAY 26.08.20
Wanaka Medical - Leading the Way
PAGE 7
Sun News
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Repair and upcycling busts out in Wānaka
PHOTO: Supplied
Film director Daisy Thor-Poet: “I made this documentary in the hope that it would make people more aware of the challenges people with disabilities face in our own country, and how we can support them.”
A filmmaker with a purpose Joanna Perry
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
Ex-Mount Aspiring College (MAC) student and filmmaker Daisy Thor-Poet has been listed as a finalist in the NOVA Employment 2020 Focus On Ability Short Film Awards with her short documentary ‘Will & Able’. Now in its twelfth year, the Australian-based Focus on Ability (FOA) film festival is designed to encourage filmmakers to focus on the ability of people with disability around the world. This year’s 266 entries included 82 school entries and 61 international films from 19 countries. Over $100,000 AUD in prizes will be shared among the winners. Having grown up in Wānaka, Thor-Poet now resides in Wellington where she established Tinted Productions, a video production company with the aim to tell stories that have impact. “I feel there are a lot of important stories to be told and I want to use my platform in a positive and meaningful way, by telling stories through video to inspire, educate and inform,” she said. “If my videos can do that, I believe they are having
a positive impact and I have succeeded in my mission to become a filmmaker with a purpose.” Her short documentary tells the story of Will & Able, a sustainable cleaning products company based in New Zealand that exists to provide jobs to people with intellectual disabilities. “I had been using the Will & Able cleaning products in my home and decided it would be a great idea to tell the story on film of the amazing work that they do, to inspire and educate others,” recalled Thor-Poet. “I made this documentary in the hope that it would make people more aware of the challenges people with disabilities face in our own country, and how we can support them.” Martin Wren, CEO NOVA Employment, said that the film festival provides “fantastic insight into how society’s attitudes are changing towards people with disability. Not just Australian society, but around the world. I don’t think you can fail to be impressed and inspired by taking ten minutes to see a couple of FOA films.” Voting for international entries closes on August 24. For more information, to view submissions or to vote, go to: www.focusonability.com.au.
Repair and upcycling are about to hit Wānaka, with a new pop-up mask-making space offering free skill-sharing and access to sewing machines and volunteers. A collaboration between building owner Ben Acland and Wastebusters, the pop-up will help anyone in the community to make their own reusable mask. It will be open for at least two weeks from this Thursday August 20 at 10 am next to the Little Black Caravan in Gordon Rd. The mask-making pop-up will segue into Wastebusters Repair Revolution workshops, which will launch in Wānaka on Saturday, September 19. Communications manager Gina Dempster said Wastebusters had jumped at the chance to help Acland kick off upcycling and skill-sharing in Wānaka a few weeks earlier than planned. “One of our priorities this year is to support more repair and upcycling in the community, so we loved Acland’s idea of making reusable masks accessible to everyone.” Acland, who previously founded NZ-made sheepskin Bo boots and worked at merino company Mons Royale, is donating the space and time to staff the pop-up. Wastebusters is providing donated fabric and support. Acland said he is a doer, with a vision of repair and upcycling becoming the norm in Wānaka. “The block to projects getting off the ground is often finding a building. I thought, well I have a building, why don’t we make it happen?” Dempster said Wastebusters is looking for fixers of all kinds to volunteer at the Wānaka and Hāwea Repair Cafe-style events on September 19 and October 18. We need fixers to repair computers, electronics, small appliances, small furniture, clothes, jewellery, books, bikes etc. If you’d like to share your repair skills with the community, just get in touch. Volunteer fixers can sign up at www. wastebusters.co.nz where there is also lots more information about how the repair cafes will work. “It’s so satisfying to fix something and return it to a beautiful or useful state, but often people
PHOTO: Wastebusters
Wastebusters Gina Dempster donates fabric to Ben Acland for the pop-up mask making work space opening today (Thursday).
don’t feel confident giving it a go until they’ve seen someone else doing it,” said Dempster. “Hold onto anything you value which needs some repair love and bring it down to the Repair Cafe workshops to be restored. And if you need some help to make a reusable mask, don’t forget to pop into the mask-making space over the next couple of weeks.” Upcycling and Repair Events 2020 Wānaka mask-making pop-up space: opens Thursday, August 20, every day except Sundays, 10 am-2 pm Wānaka repair revolution workshop: Saturday, September 19, 10 am-2 pm, Wanaka Presbyterian Church Hāwea repair revolution workshop: Sunday, October 18, 10 am-2 pm, Lake Hāwea Community Centre Funding: Financial support for the Repair Revolution project has been received from the Waste Minimisation Fund, which is administered by the Ministry for the Environment and from Queenstown Lakes District Council’s Waste Minimisation Plan implementation funds. – By Wastebusters
Local school walking for Breast Cancer Foundation Joanna Perry
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
Phone: 03 443 8000, Top of Helwick Street, Wānaka OPEN: MON-SAT 8AM TO 6PM • SUN 10AM TO 6PM PAGE 8
Wānaka’s newest school, Te Kura O Kake Kārara, is joining the national effort to support thousands of breast cancer patients by hosting a Pink Ribbon Walk at the end of the month. Friends of the school have organised a community walk up Mount Iron on Friday, August 28. The group will meet at 9:30am in the carpark beside the new roundabout, ready to enjoy a walk up Mount Iron at 10am. Jennie Manson, spokesperson for Friends of Te Kura O Kake Kārara, said the group hoped to raise $500 for Breast Cancer Foundation NZ from the sponsored walk. “Our newly established Friends of the School group are proud to be organising a Pink Ribbon Walk in support of the NZ Breast Cancer Foundation. We hope that this community event will be supported by local whānau and friends, to raise money for this very important cause,” she said. Pink Ribbon Breakfast is Breast Cancer Foundation NZ’s annual campaign to raise vital funds for breast cancer research, patient support, education and awareness. Each year more than 3,300 people are diagnosed with breast cancer in New Zealand and more than 650 will die. Evangelia Henderson, chief executive of Breast Cancer Foundation NZ, said: “We are so grateful
THURSDAY 20.08.20 - WEDNESDAY 26.08.20
PHOTO: Supplied
Friends of Te Kura O Kake Kārara hope to raise $500 for Breast Cancer Foundation NZ from the sponsored walk.
to everyone who is taking part in Pink Ribbon Breakfast. This year, the COVID-19 situation has made life harder for breast cancer patients, so the need for support has never been higher. “Thanks to the generosity of Kiwis up and down the country, we are able to continue our life-saving work. The proceeds raised from Pink Ribbon Breakfast will bring us one step closer to our vision of zero deaths from breast cancer. So, please get involved in whatever way you can – your support will make a real difference.” For more information or to donate, visit: pinkribbonbreakfast.co.nz/page/ friendsoftakekrarapinkribbonwalk
THE WĀNAKA SUN
Sun Views
thewanakasun.co.nz
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
The mayor's fog about Tarras
I see that Jim Boult is raising the issue of fog at Tarras in all of his media interviews. He says it's a significant problem for the proposed airport, and that the proposal is, therefore "an odd one". I find his statement both odd and troubling. Jim knows airports way better than most. Six years on the board of Christchurch International Airport, and four as their CEO, he was awarded the Jim Collins Award for aviation safety in 2011 and named "Airport Personality of the Year" in 2010 and 2013. In short, he's up with the play on airport safety. It's well known in the industry that technology exists to enable jets to land in reasonably thick fog on runways the length proposed for Tarras. It's already being used in Auckland. Jet pilots in New Zealand are trained up on this. So why would our mayor make it appear that Tarras's fog impedes aviation? Why even pretend that it's an issue? We need more honesty from our elected representatives. It's just not acceptable that Wanaka gets caught in the crossfire airport companies and airport men are having. This should be a discussion for the whole community, and it should be fact-based. Terry Heatherington
GUEST EDITORIAL Sponsored by
The Mayor’s airport inconsistencies Airports are the talk of the town right now, for a good reason. There are currently three busy jet airports contemplated within an hour’s drive of Queenstown - our existing airport in Frankton, possibly expanded, and two new jet airports near Wānaka. These plans are driven by corporate interests, and the community is feeling shut out. Many of us were taken aback by the Mayor’s recent editorial about Tarras Airport in the Wānaka Sun earlier this month. He has published the same article in other media since. We know Boult has a recent background in airports and high-throughput commercial tourism. He is also an advocate for QAC’s “dual airport strategy” where Queenstown Airport is expanded by a second jet airport at Wānaka. He and others have already negotiated and granted QAC a 100-year ground lease of Wānaka Airport, and sold all the airport assets to them and given them economic control, which supports that strategy. In his Wānaka Sun article, Boult notes that “the reality is that Covid-19 will have a significant impact and lasting effect on air traffic,” meaning that pressure on Queenstown Airport capacity “will be gone for a very long time” and that a new jet airport simply does not make sense. On the one hand, this is where his analysis accords with hundreds of international experts (we have gathered over 700 since March). The Mayor correctly concludes that it will now be “a long time” before Queenstown Airport faces capacity issues.” However, assuming he believes that, we cannot understand why there is a point-blank refusal to “reset” and return Wānaka Airport and Project Pure back to the 100 per cent ownership and control of the community. That is the very thing we asked the Council to do as the impacts of Covid-19 were becoming clear back in March this year. Boult took the trouble to reply to our 3,400+ members with a resounding “no” to our reset request. This means that the lease is still in place for a very long time. In his article, Boult then goes on to say that “a significant proportion” of the traffic through Tarras Airport would head to Queenstown. Many of us have said precisely that. As the Mayor, we have already registered deep concern about significant numbers of tourists stepping off jets into rental cars to pour over the Crown
THE WĀNAKA SUN
LETTER TO THE EDITOR PHOTO: WSG
Wānaka Stakeholders Group Inc.chair, Michael Ross, questions the Mayor’s airport logic.
Range or navigate the Kawarau Gorge to visit Queenstown, New Zealand’s tourist magnet. Both are challenging roads already under significant strain, and not just in winter. He also zeroes in on fog at Tarras as a critical issue. Still, He fails to mention that there is wellknown technology available which would allow the operator to handle dozens of flights - at the same time - with less than 75 meters of visibility on the runway length planned for Tarras. Auckland Airport already has the technology, and all jet pilots flying in New Zealand are trained on it. Finally, Boult mentions that the new airport would have come as “a surprise to the good folk of Tarras.” He misses the irony of his statement. The reason so many of us “good folk” in Wānaka (and Queenstown) are up in arms is because of a lack of any prior consultation with our communities. In fact, in Wānaka where the lease also compromises QLDC’s 100 per cent control of our wastewater and sewage system, Project Pure, there was no consultation about this related aspect at all. This will lead to a likely cost to the ratepayer of tens of millions of dollars to move Project Pure when QAC demands this. Boult cannot have his airport cake and eat it too. It is disingenuous to use arguments against an airport at Tarras because it is not on his turf but at the same time ignore those same arguments about the jet airport development he is supporting 15 minutes drive closer to Wānaka. When invited to respond, Mayor Boult said: “While he appreciates the opportunity, the mayor will not be responding to the opinion piece. He has previously addressed the issue in opinion pieces of his own, through direct dialogue and in media commentary.” – By Michael Ross
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 S Sean Hurley
Senior Constable, NZPD
Well, back into some form of COVID-19 restrictions we head, as we try to prevent the damage this virus can cause to our community, particularly to our treasured elders. Police will continue to have input into the compliance with the restrictions focusing on education and gathering the team of five million for the next round of this battle. We are aware it is a stressful time for all and one in which we must all do our best to follow the advice and directions to maintain public health and preserve life. On the normal crime and offending front, Monday saw police receive a report of a vehicle failing to give way on the Red Bridge and a dispute as to which party should give way; the matter is still under investigation. We also received a report of a local woman freedom camping in Eely Point Reserve. Tuesday saw police dealing with a severely intoxicated person at an Upton Street address. We also apprehended a drunk person for driving with excess breath alcohol. On Thursday police received a report of the theft of Elan Amphibio skis at the Cardrona Alpine Resort.
THURSDAY 20.08.20 - WEDNESDAY 26.08.20
We can’t stress this enough; please keep your ski or snowboard gear insight when up the mountains as some visitors to the resorts, unfortunately, do not share the same values and morals and feel they are entitled to take your property. Friday saw police deal with two motorists for excess breath alcohol. One driver is off to court to explain themselves to the judge. Saturday saw police dealing with an intoxicated male found inside an address; unfortunately, it was not his home address, a reminder to keep your doors locked. Hopefully, the person involved will reflect on their degree of intoxication and inability to find their way to their own home. Throughout the week, police dealt with three family harm incidents. Local support services, including mental health teams, have been engaged after some of these occurrences. We are again heading into a period of uncertainty for our local community with the limitation of internal travel, particularly from Auckland. This will further damage our economy and increase stress. Try and enjoy the simpler things in life and remember think of the common good of the whole community reflect on what is really important and BE KIND!
PAGE 9
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EVERY LETTERBOX EVERY THURSDAY 10/26/2017 11:38:28 AM
WĀNAKA’S INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER ISSUE 988
Parent representative votes: ASPINALL, Randall
47
LINDER, Graeme
18
BRETT, Michael
39
SWEET, Sarah
27
ELLIS, Nadia
30
TIMPANY, Anne
31
ENOKA, Mandy
37
WILKINSON, Rebecca 21
Invalid votes
8
I hereby declare the following duly elected: ASPINALL, Randall
TIMPANY, Anne
Applications are sought from suitably qualified candidates for these positions. A person specification and further information on QAC, its annual reports and Statements of Intent are available from its website (www.queenstownairport.co.nz) or the Council’s website (www.qldc.govt.nz). Experience in the airport or airline industry and a background in finance or governance would be an advantage.
BRETT, Michael
ELLIS, Nadia
Private Bag 50072 | 47 Ardmore Street Wānaka Phone 03 443 0024 | www.qldc.govt.nz
PAGE 10
Wānaka Pharmacy is your local pharmacy. We’re the big pharmacy at the top of Helwick Street open from 8am until 7pm every single day. 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.
SUN TEAM
QAC is a Council Controlled Trading Organisation (CCTO). It is owned by the Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC – 75.01%) and Auckland International Airport (AIAL – 24.99%). This ownership structure creates an additional layer of public accountability and responsibility for the Board.
Applications close on Friday 11 September 2020 and should be sent for the attention of: Mike Theelen, Chief Executive, Queenstown Lakes District Council, Private Bag 50072, Queenstown; or via email: ceo@qldc.govt.nz
SERVICES
Clean, dry, safe storage available now. Ezystor Self Storage, 12 Gordon Road, Wānaka, Ph: 021 242 1630.
Te Kura O Take Kārara Board of Trustees Election Declaration of Parent Election Results
Queenstown Airport Corporation Ltd (QAC) is owner and operator of Queenstown International Airport and the operator of Wānaka Airport. Queenstown Airport is the fourth largest airport in Aotearoa New Zealand. Two of the present directors are retiring from the Board at the Annual General Meeting in October and the shareholders are seeking to appoint replacements.
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.
STORAGE
PUBLIC NOTICE
Queenstown Airport Corporation: Vacancy for Directors
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.
The Salvation Army Family Store urgently requires warm clothing, if you can help this would be greatly appreciated. Your donations can be dropped at 48 Helwick Street.
If not, email your address to admin@thewanakasun.co.nz or phone us on 03 443 5252
Queenstown Airport Corporation
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ENOKA, Mandy
Signed Leanne Harling Returning Officer
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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: Ollie Blyth • journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz Joanna Perry • 021 736 740 newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz Advertising: Josh Baines • 021 786 740 adrep@thewanakasun.co.nz Admin: Benn Ashford • 021 956 740 admin@thewanakasun.co.nz Mail: PO Box 697, Wānaka Deadlines: Display Advertising 4pm Friday prior to publication. marketing@thewanakasun.co.nz 03 443 5252 Classified Advertising 5pm Monday prior admin@thewanakasun.co.nz Subscriptions: $175 within NZ (including GST) per year. Overseas rates on request. Remittances to PO Box 697, Wānaka, NZ.
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Sun Sport / Classifieds
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Wanaka Premiers lose but still in the race The Wānaka AFC Premier Football Team hosted University from Dunedin in perfect conditions at the Wānaka Recreation Centre on Saturday. The game could allow Wānaka to cement a topfour placing and also keep the prestigious Blair Davidson Shield. A cagey opening five minutes from both teams masked what was to follow as University scored in the sixth, 26th and 31st minutes to take control of the game and a valuable 3-0 lead at the break. The opener was gifted to University when Wānaka keeper Lukas Schafer miscued a clearance kick and Universities Rathbone beat Thomas Van Hees to the ball and then placed his shot past the young keeper. Ben Stanley scored the second from close range after a clever through ball from Rathbone. Then Rathbone scored his second when he ran on to a through ball to beat Wānaka's offside trap and around Schafer in goal to make it 3-0. Wānaka had few clear cut chances in a belowpar first-half performance. The second half saw more urgency from Wānaka as they looked for a goal to get them back into the contest. They started to control possession better. In the 65th minute, Steve Pleskun was released by Weston Bell, but the big striker blazed over from 10 yards out, and it was the start of more productive play from the home side. How ever it was University, who scored just two minutes later, with their first really meaningful
PHOTO: WAFC
WAFC striker Steve Pleskun makes an attacking run towards goal.
attack of the second half. Oban Hawkins shot from outside the penalty area to hit his own striker Stanley on his back and deflect the ball the opposite way to leave Schafer no chance. 4-0. Wānaka then created another great chance Barry Grehan slalomed through the University midfield and slipped a great pass to Adam Hewson and his right foot shot from 18 yards to
strike the right post. Stanley scored his third in the 85th minute after Wānaka failed twice to clear the ball with misplaced clearances in their penalty area. 5-0 Wānaka didn't give up, and Grehan set up Hewson, but his shot hit the post, and just minutes later Bell found the lively striker who found the back of the net to make it 5-1. Disappointment at losing the game and the
Blair Davidson Shield was softened when after the final whistle news of Queenstown AFC losing to Green Island was heard. This confirmed Wānaka would still finish fourth and go into a home and away series with the other top four placed teams to battle for the championship. Wānaka will need to regroup and lift their game in the coming weeks. – By WAFC
PUBLIC NOTICE
N o t i c e b o a rd | P a p a P ā n u i Meeting Schedule for September 2020
The location in respect of which this application relates is situated at: Riverbank Road, Wānaka (Lot 226 DP453060)
Public Notice is hereby given in terms of Section 46 of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 that meetings of the Council will be held as follows, during the month of September 2020. District Licensing Committee Hearing – Council Chambers, 10 Gorge Road, Queenstown. Wednesday 2 September 2020 at 1.00pm.
ADDRESS FOR SERVICE FOR APPLICANT: Blair Devlin blair@vivianespie.co.nz Vivian and Espie Limited PO Box 2514, Wakatipu, Queenstown
Queenstown Lakes District Council – Council Chambers, 10 Gorge Road, Queenstown. Thursday 3 September 2020 at 1.00pm.
The Council planner processing this application on behalf of the Council is Francesca McAdam, who may be contacted by phone at 03 450 0444 or email francesca.mcadam@qldc.govt.nz
Traffic & Parking Subcommittee – Council Chambers, 10 Gorge Road, Queenstown. Monday 7 September 2020 at 9.00am.
Submissions will be received until 17 September 2020, 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:
Subject to change. Last amended: 14 August 2020
Resource Consent Hearing (Waterfall Park Developments Limited RM200290) – Crowne Plaza (Level 3), Beach Street, Queenstown. Tuesday 8 September 2020 at 10.00am. Planning & Strategy Committee – Council Chambers, 10 Gorge Road, Queenstown. Thursday 10 September 2020 at 10.00am. Wānaka Community Board – Lake Hāwea Community Centre, 28 Myra Street, Lake Hāwea. Thursday 17 September 2020 at 10.00am. Community & Services Committee – Council Chambers, 10 Gorge Road, Queenstown. Thursday 24 September 2020 at 10.00am. Appeals Subcommittee – Council Chambers, 10 Gorge Road, Queenstown. Thursday 24 September 2020 at 1.00pm. This meeting will be held with the public excluded, pursuant to Section 7(2)(g) and Section 7(2)(i) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987. Meeting dates, times and venues are subject to change. All of the above meetings are open to the public. Some meetings may have items of business that will be discussed with the public excluded, as set out by the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987. Mike Theelen CHIEF EXECUTIVE
RESOURCE CONSENT APPLICATION 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
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
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. 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 Address for Service for Consent Authority: Queenstown Lakes District Council Private Bag 50072, Queenstown 9348 10 Gorge Road, Queenstown 9300
Email Phone Website
rcsubmission@qldc.govt.nz 03 441 0499 www.qldc.govt.nz
Dated: 20 August 2020 Signed by QUEENSTOWN LAKES DISTRICT COUNCIL
Creative Communities Scheme Funding Round Open Funding is now available for community–based arts groups for performances, events and workshops that will provide a variety of opportunities for participation in those activities.
1. JIT Hillend Investment Limited (RM200533)
Funding round is now open and will close at 5.00pm on Monday 31 August 2020.
What is proposed: It is proposed to locate a 750m² residential building platform and construct associated access, servicing, earthworks and landscaping.
Applications are available from the Council website www.qldc.govt.nz/media/q5mdu0ss/ccs-application-guide.pdf For any enquiries please contact Jan Maxwell, Relationship Manager Arts and Events, 03 441 0469 or 027 233 7934 or email jan.maxwell@qldc.govt.nz
Private Bag 50072 | 47 Ardmore Street Wānaka Phone 03 443 0024 | www.qldc.govt.nz
THE WĀNAKA SUN
THURSDAY 20.08.20 - WEDNESDAY 26.08.20
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Sun Sport
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MAC win Central Otago Tournament The Mount Aspiring College Boys 1st XI Football team took home the RT Cup on Saturday after winning all three of their games and only conceding one goal. The tournament took place at the Wanaka Rec Centre on Sunday. Unfortunately the tournament had to be closed to parents and spectators due to Covid-19 restrictions. Protocols and guidelines were put in place to make sure the tournament stayed safe and players could still enjoy what turned out to be a great day and. MAC met their arch-rival Wakatipu High School in their first match . Wakatipu were looking to get revenge from a friendly match played two weeks ago which they
lost 5-1. The match was played end to end, and each team had opportunities. Wakatipu was much improved from two weeks ago, but MAC still looked the better team but just couldn’t put the ball in the back of the net. After the end of 50 minutes the match ended in a 0-0 draw and went to a best of five penalty shootout. MAC’s goalkeeper Lukas Schafe stepped up and saved two goals giving MAC the victory 5-3 on penalties and three points for the win. Next up was Gore High School who beat Dunstan High School in their first match. Gore
put up a good fight, but in the end, MAC was too good winning 2-1 plus another 3 points. The final game of the day was against local rival Dunstan High School who narrowly lost to Gore and lost to Wakatipu in a penalty shootout. Dunstan was looking forward to their first-ever win against MAC and had no lack of motivation. Still, MAC was too strong and after two games had good teamwork going and were playing to their strengths The game ended 3-0 but the score could have been much higher if MAC had finished better in front of goal. That win gave MAC a maximum total of nine points and the River & Lakes Cup. – By WAFC
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MAC’s Levi Fletcher (white) against Gore.
PHOTOS: WAFC
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