Q and A with Jim Boult
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Where were your kids? Vandals go on rampage at Hikuwai
This Toyota Hi Ace managed 33 years of faithful service and clocked up close to 400,000km – but a couple of meetings with vandals in Wānaka left it a write off.
Lee Brown has posted a reward after vandals struck at Hikuwai.
Roy Pilott
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
andals have caused thousands of dollars of damage at a site on the Hikuwai residential development – prompting a call for parents to take responsibility. Developer Lee Brown has posted a $500 reward for information leading to the identification of the culprits. Police say two houses on Joe Brown Drive, Albert Town, were also trashed and daubed with black, green and pink spray paint. The cases appear similar. It’s the second time Hikuwai has been used as a vandals’ playground – last time several juveniles were identified, and an attempt to have them meet Brown fizzled – just one turned up and
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subsequently did some gardening to make up for the damage. Lee Brown posted pictures of the latest vandalism on social media asking “do you know where your kids were last night? …did they go out riding on their bikes? …did they come home with black or pink spray paint on their fingers? …do you recognise any of the tags in the below photos? He told the Wānaka Sun the vandals struck last Thursday or Friday. The Albert Town vandalism happened on Friday or Saturday. “The damage is in the thousands – a vehicle on the property belonging to a friend of mine has been completely trashed – it was going to be sold but will go to the wreckers now,” he said. “They have completely trashed portable buildings on the site – smashing every window and destroying an oven. The owner was storing them
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and had planned to move them to his own site.” The vandals left their calling cards in the shape of two names – Zebo and Rez, and their liberal use of yellow and fluoro pink and green spray paint included an insult to Mount Aspiring College, reinforcing the view youths were responsible. Brown said his social media message was designed to encourage adults to take some responsibility for the behaviour of young people in their home. The vandals took advantage of the fact that the site is partially hidden by trees. Hikuwai is a 200-lot subdivision on almost 40ha on the intersection of Aubrey and Outlet Rd. Lee Brown says it has attracted almost 95 per cent local buyers – “it’s a great community subdivision”. Wānaka police are investigating the vandalism.
The vandals even signed their work – who is Zebo?
… and who is Rez?
1 202 Ho m e B u il d e r s
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QLDC Mayor Jim Boult talks to readers In the wake of moves to remove the Wānaka Community Board, and a petition to remove Wānaka from the Queenstown Lakes District Council, Mayor Jim Boult sought an interview with the Sun. He declined to be interviewed by Viv Milsom. Instead, he agreed to answer a set of written questions. Here is what he had to tell Wānaka Sun readers. Q: You voted in favour of all three Wānaka QLDC Councillors remaining on the WCB – despite the strong community feedback and the Representation Review proposal both recommending that the number be reduced to just one Councillor. Can you tell us please why you supported this motion? Looking to the future – when there are four Wānaka QLDC Councillors would it make more sense to have two of them on the WCB, rather than three? Why? Why not? A: This was presented as the preferred outcome by the whole of the Board, and accordingly the Council supported their request. The recent decision to appoint three councillors to the Board is effective from October 2022 when there will be four Wānaka-Upper Clutha Ward Councillors. The make-up of the Board beyond this can only be amended through a representation review so how many councillors are appointed in the future will be a matter for any future representation review process (which must happen within six years of this latest review). Q: WCB recently asked for its Minor Improvements Budget (MIB) to be increased from $1.4 million to $5 million. QLDC has agreed to an increase to $2million. Given the rapid growth in population in Wānaka, why did you not agree to the request for $5million? Would you support a policy whereby the MIB was tagged to the rate take from Wānaka and increased accordingly? Please explain your answer. Would you support the Wānaka Reserves Land Sales Fund being administered in the future by WCB? Please explain your answer. Would you support WCB receiving an executive summary of how much QLDC income is being generated in Wānaka / Upper Clutha and how it is being applied? Please explain your answer. A: We’ll need a bit more time to answer your specific points here. However, in general revenue
“... I and all my fellow councillors remain absolutely committed to the wellbeing of, and investment in, the Upper Clutha…” and reinvestment is in line with the QLDC Revenue and Funding Policy where some things are funded district wide, others are a straightforward reinvestment of rates within a ward, etc. This balance between different wards is reflected in our current Ten Year Plan investment. The net community-funded capex split is actually 30/70 (Wānaka/Queenstown) which is in line with the split between the district’s capital value and the projected average day population. In fact, for the first five years the net capex split is 36/64, thereby favouring Wānaka over Queenstown. It is a common narrative I hear that Council isn’t investing fairly in Wānaka and its surrounds, and how Wānaka is subsidising investment in Queenstown. That is simply not correct. The numbers clearly demonstrate investment across the district is proportionate and revenue is invested where it is collected. Revenue from Wānaka is invested in the Wānaka Ward. Q: Are there any QLDC plans to increase the staffing levels in Wānaka? Would you support more of the 450 – 500 QLDC staff being based in Wānaka? Please explain your answer. A: Council employs around 75 FTE (full-time equivalent) staff in Wānaka, not 12 as reported in last week’s Wānaka Sun. This runs across the building services, planning, regulatory, parks, property and infrastructure, sport and recreation, customer services and libraries teams. Moreover, these figures do not reflect Council’s flexible
working practices which enable Queenstownbased staff to travel regularly over the Crown Range to support their teams, and vice versa. It’s also interesting to note that approximately 21% of all Council employees call the Upper Clutha home. This compares to 74% residing in the Whakatipu Basin and 5% elsewhere (e.g. Cromwell). Q: There is a workshop between WCB and QLDC coming up on 28 September to review the Governance Protocol Statement (GPS) and identify future initiatives for WCB. Can you tell us please what changes you envisage in the GPS? Please explain your answer. A: The workshop on 28 September is for staff to explore further what the Board is seeking from an update to the GPS, delegations etc. I remain open-minded and welcome greater detail from the Board after the workshop. Q: A petition calling for Wānaka to split from the QLDC has gained some traction – what is your view of this and what is your message to the Wānaka community? A: We have previously stated that we won’t be commenting on the merits of Mr Rankin’s petition, but note that this is a matter for the Local Government Commission to explore through its independent, objective process. There are many steps in a process like this which I believe will likely look into levels of investment in the ward and how it is represented. The only point I would make, and have already said, is that a council has a base cost to operate. Clearly, as a result that would place an additional financial burden on Upper Clutha ratepayers. Compared to most councils, QLDC already has a relatively small general rate and a larger number of targeted rates (some ward and scheme based) which means that what is being spent reflects what the community is prepared to fund. I would also reiterate to people living in and around Wānaka that I and all my fellow councillors
remain absolutely committed to the wellbeing of, and investment in, the Upper Clutha: its environment, economy and diverse communities. Q: Finishing on a general note – Do you support the Government’s Three waters reform and what are your views on it? How could it impact on Wānaka? I support the intent which is to protect clean, potable water and our environment. However, I am gravely concerned at the model proposed. Along with other mayors I have asked the government to slow the reform process to allow us to investigate the effects of the proposed structure and to enable our communities to have their say. Many call for a local referendum on the matter. If there is to be a referendum it should be a national one; there would be little to be gained from every council in NZ holding its own. Referendums require a yes/no answer. I’m not sure we have enough information to even decide the questions to be asked at present. I would also refer your readers to my recent video on this matter, and the letter/media release from Otago and Southland mayors to the minister. You can find all this information on the QLDC website: www.qldc.govt.nz/yourcouncil/major-projects/three-waters-reform.
Wānaka employs residents to carry out planting, pest control, wilding pine control and biodiversity and freshwater monitoring on local farms. Upper Clutha landowners are working proactively towards achieving their environmental goals and are engaged in this programme to help fast track that work. Alongside practical work on the ground, workshops on topics such as agricultural greenhouse gas emissions, biodiversity monitoring and water testing are being carried out. This work is aligned with local, regional and national policies, as well as factoring in industry and market led requirements for
environmental reporting. An education programme with Holy Family and Makarora Primary schools, ‘Farmers as kaitiaki’, is giving Wānaka primary school students an overview of farming in the Upper Clutha, and how landowners can impact the local environment. As Wai Wānaka looks forward to the next five years, Mandy says that there is much more yet to do. “We are excited by the growing capabilities of our team to carry out this work and to be engaging with scientists, experts and educators to make the work we do endure.”
QLDC Mayor Jim Boult
It’s a high five for Wai
From three passionate part time volunteers to a dedicated workforce of 44, a lot has changed over the five year evolution of Water Action Initiate Wai Wānaka. Wai Wānaka is a charitable trust started by people from different backgrounds who all shared similar concerns about water. The group first came together with the goal of increasing freshwater communication and collaboration across the Upper Clutha. Mandy Bell, Chair of Wai Wānaka, says the work of the trust quickly expanded to take a whole of basin, whole of community approach. “Our work connects the rural, urban and tourism sectors to achieve the common goal of keeping our environment in a state we are proud to pass on to future generations.” Looking at freshwater as part of the whole ecosystem, Wai Wānaka now undertakes a range of activities to enhance the environment and engage the community in working towards the twin outcomes of community wellbeing and healthy ecosystems. From working with landowners to develop environmental plans, carrying out urban stormwater research and co-creating education programmes with local primary schools, Wai
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The Wai Wanaka team has become a team of almost 50.
works closely with partner organisations to increase knowledge and understanding of how we protect and enhance our local environment. “We’re lucky in Wānaka to have such an engaged community. So many of us love being outdoors and appreciate what we have here, so are motivated to protect it,” said Julie Perry, manager of Wai Wānaka. “A big part of Wai’s role is connecting the dots and achieving more by working with others. The more we do together, the more ideas blossom.” Under the Jobs for Nature programme, funded through the Ministry for Primary Industry, Wai
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Board given a ‘wake up call’ to all of us,” she said. A good number of the submissions from the Upper Clutha in favour of retaining the Wānaka Community Board had made the point that not all three councillors should sit on the Wānaka Community Board. People have until October 22 to appeal the decision. The Wānaka Sun invited each member of the Wānaka Community Board to provide 250 words on their thoughts following the QLDC decision. Members declined the opportunity and provided a combined statement which follows: The Wānaka Community Board has welcomed the Queenstown Lakes District Council vote to retain the Board. The Representation Review process has enabled Upper Clutha citizens to express their preferences for how elected representation
Homegrown toi weeked
of social, health and environmental challenges”, design’s role could not be more vital. “Organisers are inviting the community and visitors to experience the world-class talent we have right here in Wānaka, to get involved and to celebrate creative excellence. “Toi often translates as knowledge, skill, excellence, source, origin, or mastery. This is going to be a fabulous weekend with an incredible cross-section of artists and designers, from photographers, interior, graphic, jewellery, through to fashion, taking part.” The collective behind Toi is made up of Toi will feature in Wānaka next month. representatives from Lake Wānaka Tourism, will further strengthen this growing reputation Tourism was a great success and provided us the Link, 3 Lakes Cultural Trust, Festival of Colour, and shine a light on the incredible talent and encouragement to develop this concept. ignite Wānaka Chamber of Commerce, and businesses we have within the community. Gizelle Regan, Deputy Chair of the Three Lakes Wānaka design retailers. Last years’ inaugural event, led by Lake Wānaka Cultural Trust said “in these unprecedented times For more details go to www.toiwanaka.nz.
A collective group of artistically minded individuals, businesses, plus community groups are working together with the goal of championing Wānaka’s creative sector, with a weekend of events starting on October 15. Toi is a celebration of creativity, design, and excellence and will feature two days of workshops, exhibitions, panel discussions and performance. “Wānaka has a thriving design scene and is fast building a reputation as a hub for creative thought,” Festival Director Sophie Lane said. “This initiative
should be structured and clearly their preference was for the Community Board to stay. The four elected Wānaka Community Board members, along with the three Wānaka councillors who are also appointed to the board, are now working on ways to strengthen the role of the Wānaka Community Board and the working relationship with the wider QLDC and staff. These discussions will include many aspects of how the board operates including Governance Protocols, board delegations, QLDC information and communication and links to local community associations. All board members see this as a unique opportunity to reset the board and reinforce the ability of our citizens to have a real say about how their communities and neighbourhoods work, not only to ensure the right services are provided but also contribute to more resilient
communities which are able to resolve many of their issues and concerns. We take this opportunity to say thank you for community support, particularly the people who submitted and spoke during the Representation Review Hearing to retain the Board. The statement was presented in the names of Niamh Shaw, Jude Battson, Chris Hadfield, Calum McLeod, Quentin Smith, Ed Taylor and Barry Bruce. • Board Chair Barry Bruce has moved to correct his statement in last week’s Sun that “there are around 450 full-time staff in Queenstown and just 12 in Wānaka”. There are in fact around 75 full-time equivalent staff based in Wānaka and the Upper Clutha across multiple different departments, not including those Queenstown-based staff who regularly travel here to support their teams.
Councillors have voted to retain the Wānaka Community Board in its present form, with all three Wānaka Ward Queenstown Lakes District Councillor positions retained. The original motion before last week’s meeting on Thursday was to retain the WCB, but with only one Wānaka Ward councillor sitting alongside the four community board members. An amendment proposed by Wānaka Ward QLDC councillor Niamh Shaw, and seconded by Wānaka Ward QLDC councillor Callum Macleod proposed keeping all three Wānaka Ward Councillors. In speaking to the amendment, Shaw said the three Wānaka Ward councillors had underestimated the dissatisfaction from a third of the population and suggested QLDC needed to critically review how they do things. “The community feedback was a wake-up call
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Funding boost to tackle pests
PHOTO: Mo Turnbull
The Whakatipu Basin, pictured from the Crown Range is a landscape worth protecting, Greg Lind says.
The newly formed Southern Lakes Sanctuary Trust is celebrating a $3 million funding announcement by Conservation Minister Kiritapu Allan for a new predator control project for the catchments of Lakes Wānaka and Whakatipu. The project will initially support predator control projects across the Queenstown Lakes District before expanding control to target the complete eradication of introduced pests. “The spectacular mountains, rivers and lakes of our region are well known globally, but what is less known is the incredible biodiversity they harbour, and the great risk it faces from introduced predators,” Trust Chair, Greg Lind, said. “The Southern Lakes Sanctuary will work with our iwi partners Ngai Tahu, Doc, QLDC and local groups to ensure we have thriving ecosystems and abundant wildlife in our region that is enjoyed by people who treasure this whenua puia.” The funding will be over three years and come from the Department of Conservation’s Mahi mō
te Taiao/Jobs for Nature initiative. A consortium of six conservation groups representing the work of more than 85 predator control projects across the district have been funded to engage in landscape-scale conservation work. The six are Central Otago Lakes Branch of Forest and Bird, Matukituki Catchment Animal Control Project, Routeburn Dart Wildlife Trust, Soho Properties, Wānaka Backyard Trapping and Whakatipu Wildlife Trust. The trust says there are 23 threatened and at-risk wildlife species in the district, and the Southern Lakes Sanctuary will initially focus on removing predators from over 183,000 ha. More than 35 full time jobs will be created by the project and almost all the funding will be spent locally. As well as professional staff covering biodiversity, education, training, and communications, the project will focus on putting staff in the field stretching from Makarora to Glenorchy.
Volunteers at the Albert Town Reserve last weekend.
Albert reserve gets attention More than 20 volunteers planted 200 native plants at the Albert Town reserve last Saturday. Plants included endangered species including the carmichaelia kirkii, one of New Zealand’s native brooms. “It is great to reintroduce some native plants in this reserve as there are not so many,” Te Kakano Aotearoa Trust administrator Loran Verpillot said. “QLDC had some rabbit fences installed around a couple of areas which made the planting process a lot easier. It is crucial that the gates stay closed at all times though.” Planting is planned to continue for up to three years in fenced areas and the trust is likely to set
up a watering system - probably some drums and buckets - so anyone passing by will be able to water the plants. The trust is organising planting every weekend until early October to catch up with the lost sessions due to lockdown. “At alert level 2, we are limiting our planting sessions to 20 volunteers and people need to register,” Loran Verpillot said. The trust is also active in the nursery at the moment. “In spring, there is usually a lot of work to do with the plants, and we always welcome volunteers to our nursery sessions. For more details, email info@tekakano.org.nz.
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Sun Farming / News
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A monthly column by Macaulay Jones, Federated Farmers Senior Policy Advisor Climate Change, Trade, Science & Innovation.
Let’s get the full story told Supporting local businesses benefits the economy, but supporting local products is not always beneficial for the climate. As the world and New Zealand continues to be impacted by the Covid 19 pandemic and policies enacted to curb its spread, many consumers are making a conscious effort to support local businesses. Local businesses directly and indirectly support local communities and are often owned and operated by active members of the community. However, while supporting local businesses is a great way of helping your neighbours financially recover from the pandemic, extending this principle to choosing to buy local products as a means of taking climate action may not offer the benefits for the atmosphere you’d expect. This November thousands of representatives from different governments, NGOs, businesses, academic institutions, media organisations and other interested bodies flock to Glasgow for the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26). This year’s conference comes in the wake of the release of the United Nation’s sixth assessment report on the physical science basis of climate change, a report described as “a code red for humanity” by UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres. Federated Farmers has submitted to the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade on the approach New Zealand will be taking to these climate change negotiations. In our submission we urged New Zealand politicians and officials to take a more ambitious approach in the talks and to use COP26 as a platform to showcase policy settings that have the potential to produce more food, more efficiently, with fewer emissions. New Zealand farmers are among the most emissions efficient in the world at producing nutrition dense and highly sought-after products. There are many complex reasons for this impressive emissions efficiency including favourable climatic conditions, fertile soils, a long history of stable governance and a cutting-edge network of agricultural research and development institutions. A factor often not discussed is how the decades of farming without subsidies has led to New Zealand farmers operating farms as agile businesses, minimizing waste, embracing innovation, maximizing the quality of outputs
and adapting to changing consumer preferences – and therefore increasing emissions efficiency. This efficiency means it is often better for the atmosphere for consumers in distant international markets to consume New Zealand food than to eat local products (even after the emissions from transport are considered). It makes sense, for the economy and for the atmosphere, to consume products made where it is most efficient to do so. A typical New Zealand flat white will likely contain home-grown milk but could also contain coffee from Brazil and sugar from Thailand and will be served in a cup perhaps from Australia. In this example, New Zealand consumers are benefitting from the increased consumer choice trade has facilitated, international farmers are benefitting from access to New Zealand consumers and the climate is benefiting from products being made where it is most efficient to do so. However, unfortunately many subsidies and trade distorting policies persist in the global food system. Farmers in some countries are being encouraged to produce too much of a product in which there is no comparative advantage to do so, and farmers in other countries are unable to get goods to international markets due to prohibitive trade policies. In the case of an extreme weather event that impacts production, in redistributing goods the global supply chain is not only battling with this immediate disruption but also a complex web of restrictive policies that harm farmers, consumers and the environment. All New Zealanders should make an effort to support local businesses that have endured the disruption and financial impacts caused by the Covid 19 pandemic. Many of these businesses will be offering products from across the world. Rather than feeling guilty about the emissions involved in transporting these products to New Zealand, Kiwis should be encouraging New Zealand politicians and officials to tell the story of unsubsidised farming in New Zealand. At COP26 the New Zealand delegation should not be shy in encouraging other countries to remove remaining distorting subsidies and trade barriers, doing so would be good for both people and the planet.
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Council staff completed three sets of flights across the region.
Council happy with compliance Compliance flyovers by the Otago Regional Council (ORC) in May, July and August this year found nearly all landowners were abiding by rules. ORC Manager Compliance Tami Sargeant said the flights showed increasing awareness of existing and incoming rules. “Over the flights, we saw relatively few risks from the sky that needed to be followed up on the ground, and we had a lot of great engagement with landowners and industry groups throughout winter. Otago farmers generally followed good management practices and mitigated environmental risks well.” The annual winter flyovers allow staff to check for high risk and potentially non-compliant land use activities with a bird’s eye view. ORC took extra flights this year after the government requested increased monitoring of intensive winter grazing. In Central Otago the flights covered Beaumont through to Queenstown, and north to the Lakes, including Makarora, and down through the Ida Valley. Over three sets of flights across the region, staff identified 140 properties to follow up on the ground – 26 related to potential breaches of current rules, and the remainder related to future rules. When potential non-compliance or high-
risk activities are identified from the air, staff follow up on the ground with site visits or direct communication to landowners. The flights provide a good opportunity for education, Ms Sargeant said. “We’ve observed improved awareness over the course of the winter which reflects the productive conversations staff have had with landowners and their willingness to look after the environment. ORC’s Compliance Plan emphasises proactive engagement and education, and that’s been taken up really well by the community this year.” Ms Sargeant said staff were monitoring preparation against current rules and new intensive winter grazing regulations that are not yet in force. “One of the focuses for this year’s flights was checking compliance against upcoming rules from the government and Plan Change 8 and helping people to understand and prepare for those rules. The majority of the sites that we followed up on the ground were fully compliant with current rules but may have breached incoming rules around critical source areas. “Our message overall is that compliance this year has been good, although it’s really important that appropriate grazing plans and management practices are implemented for next season. We encourage people to get in touch if they need clarity or advice about current rules or new rules that will come into force soon.”
Sales data ‘reflects time of year, Covid’ Three-month data out this week from the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) showed there were 51 less farm sales (down 14.3 percent) compared to the same period in 2021. Otago achieved steady outcomes for finishing and grazing properties, albeit considerably down on results from 12 months ago Nationally there were 306 farm sales in the three months ended August 2021, compared to 364 farm sales for the three months ended July 2021 and 357 farm sales for the three months ended August 2020. A total of 1680 farms were sold in the year to August 2021, 37.3 percent more than were sold in the year to August 2020. The breakdown was 153.8 percent more dairy farms, one percent more dairy support, 24.4 percent more grazing farms, 50.8 percent more finishing farms and 46.4 percent less arable farms sold over the same period. The median price per hectare for all farms sold in the three months to August 2021 was
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$27,250 compared to $25,460 recorded for three months ended August 2020. Four regions recorded an increase in the number of farm sales for the three months ended August 2021 compared to the three months ended August 2020, with the most notable being Nelson/Marlborough (up 11) and Southland six. Manawatu-Wanganui, down 22 sales and Wellington down 15 recorded the biggest decreases. Compared to the three months ended July 2021, no regions recorded an increase in sales. Brian Peacocke, Rural Spokesman at REINZ said sales figures for the most recent threemonth period reflected both the time of the year, when the rural sector is busy with calving and lambing, and the impact of the Covid-19 influenced lockdown, with both factors impacting on sluggish sales results. Given the eventual freeing up of the lockdown however, prospects for the rural sector look bright, he said.
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Plum job for Josh
Ethan, Kaitlyn and Liam, ready for class.
Kaitlyn makes three
It is something of a family tradition in the Rankin household that when the children start at Holy Family School, mum sends a picture to the Wānaka Sun. This month has seen number three - Kaitlyn - join Liam, 9, and Ethan, 7, there. “As you can see I’m a sentimental soul who saves these things,” Zivvy Rankin explained when she dispatched the latest picture to us, alongside pictures of previous clippings. “It didn’t go quite as smoothly as we anticipated
as she left her bag beside the car when we took the photos so arrived at school without it, then she tripped over at the pedestrian crossing at school and grazed her hand so our at-school photos were a little tearful.” Dad – Dean Rankin – stole her thunder last week, featuring in a profile piece talking about his petition calling for Wānaka to break away from the Queenstown Lakes District Council. This week it’s Kaitlyn's turn to be in the spotlight.
Wānaka electrician Josh Welsh-Parrant graduated at the Apprenticeship Training Trust’s celebration ceremony held online last Friday. The virtual event replaced the planned graduation celebrations that were to be held at The George, Christchurch and at Sky City Auckland. Josh completed his apprenticeship with Nind Electrical Services, Wānaka, and plans to continue working with them in the region after graduation. He has finished four years of training on-thejob, undertaking theory training by travelling to Dunedin for block courses. To celebrate the success of the graduating class of 2021 the Apprenticeship Training Trust had planned graduation events in both Christchurch and Auckland, which were to be attended by hundreds of guests. “Nind have been training apprentices for many years,” Steve Winter, General Manager for Nind Electrical. “Josh has been a credit to us, we are so pleased to see him graduate, it has been marvellous watching him learn and take on new skills over the years. We thoroughly enjoy working with him and congratulate him heartily on his success.” The Apprenticeship Training Trust (ATT) - an independent national charitable trust - provides managed apprenticeships – matching employers with apprentices in the plumbing, gasfitting, drainlaying and electrical industries. ATT has over 300 apprentices working John Welsh-Parrant throughout New Zealand and operates from four locations – Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington and we are thrilled to see these apprentices graduate, Christchurch. they are doing so well and winning awards,” Chief “We have 91 graduates nationwide this year and Executive Nicola Dashper said.
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A MUM
Mum, aka the event planner Who knew that planning a first birthday party would be so stressful? I mean how difficult could it be, right? The thing is, after becoming a mum everything is much harder. By now, we have a daily routine that seems to work pretty well. But when something new crops up, it can throw a real spanner in the works. Before becoming a mum, I loved to organise events. I’d spend hours of my spare time searching the internet for unique party ideas. Nowadays, the opposite is true. Just the thought of having to tidy the house up
for Toby’s party was enough to put me off. At first, we were in two minds about having a birthday party all together. We knew that Tobias wouldn't remember it but we thought it would be a great way to celebrate. We had planned a simple get together with some friends. Trouble is nothing is quite so simple when you have a baby in tow. As we have a tiny place, we organised a BBQ in the garden. I spent all week checking the weather in the hope that we wouldn’t end up crammed together in our little living room.
Waking up Saturday morning, I looked out at the grey sky and thought that we may have to cancel the whole thing. Luckily, though, the weather was pretty good. One less thing to worry about! We had a long list of things to do including cleaning up the house, throwing up a few banners, and preparing the food. It really doesn’t sound like much but as I’ve said before any additional tasks, no matter how small, can be a big challenge these days. So, with two naps to organise, two meals to prepare, several nappy changes, and all the undivided attention a one year old requires, it’s safe to say that it was a pretty hectic morning.
It got me thinking about all the future parties we might have to plan. Will I always find them so stressful? I mean, how do you even begin to organise a party for 30 school kids? Anyway, despite forgetting to put half of the food out, the party went without a hitch. In fact I enjoyed myself so much that I forgot to take photos! As Sean was on BBQ duty, documenting Toby’s party was my task. And it’s safe to say I failed. Another thing to add to the list of mum guilt. Of course, we still have our memories. And I’m sure there will be plenty more parties to come. If I can be bothered to organise them! – By Daisy Watford
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Springing into bowls Where many bowling clubs are focused on the summer season, the Wānaka Bowling Club offers bowls all year round - in the summer on their outside green and in the winter in the comfort of the Club’s Indoor Stadium. With the Covid lockdown, the transition from the winter programme to the upcoming outdoor summer programme has been somewhat disrupted, but with the move to Level 2 things are certainly starting to happen. The mainstay of the winter programme - the Neil Studholme Trophy - came to a very sudden stop with the latest lockdown. It’s been a great competition this year and such a shame that the last two ‘finals’ days have yet to be played - and may not. As it stands the teams have finished in the final order after 20 weeks of round robin play - Top Four: Meadowstone 1 Mt Albert 2. Hāwea Blue 3, Beacon Point 4. Bottom Four: Pembroke 5, Rippon West Meadows 6 Hāwea Gold 7, Village 8. Usually, we have the semi-finals in the second to last week of play and the final on the last week. With Covid conditions applying, the summer season has opened quietly with bowls only allowed on the outside green with its new mat, laid during the winter. Thankfully Wānaka has had some extremely nice days that have seen members enjoying bowling outside. The first major event in the season is the annual women’s Spring into Bowls Tournament on today (Thursday). This annual triples tournament is open to outside teams. This year there are 14 outside teams and two Wānaka teams competing. It is an event that is thoroughly enjoyed by all participating Central Otago Clubs. Next week will feature the Matt Ecroyd/ Bayley’s Mixed Triples tournament that was such a great success last year. Covid allowing, it will be a busy summer bowling season that will include weekly men’s and women’s social bowls, Friday progressive
Club with a view – An aerial view of action at the club.
bowls, club championship events for both men and women, trade bowls, men’s pennants on Wednesdays and Saturday against Central Otago Clubs, women’s inter-club events, plus events at other clubs, centre events and representative fixtures. On top of all that the club hosts many business groups (and the like) who enjoy late afternoon
meet Covid Level 2 criteria to allow skiers to enjoy a fun event at Snow Farm on Saturday. Young and old had the opportunity to compete for the best fancy dress and the best mask as well as ski four distances - 7km, 14km and 21km and an Under 10 1km. More than 100 skiers completed the distance of their choice. It was back to the old days with
bowls assisted by club members, followed by a social time and something to eat. The Club is forging links with Mt Aspiring College and this year had a delightful group of students doing an NCEA module in Bowls and working to achieve the required standards. Let’s hope for a full season of enjoyable bowls. – By Peter Wilson
registration on the day and no entry fees. The usual merino lamb dinner and prize giving was replaced by a BBQ on the snow on completion. Wānaka’s Campbell Wright blitzed the 21km Men's event. He is preparing to head to Italy to train in the Dolomites for the Biathlon world cup season. Second was Jason Sklenar from Wānaka and third Jason MacDonald from Dunedin. The women’s was won by Sonja Mueller from Dunedin with
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Mount Aspiring student Olivia Jones second and Rachel Brown from Hāwea third. Steve Malushnig, Hāwea, dressed in traditional Austrian attire won the men’s 14km with David O’Sullivan second and Ian McNabb, Wānaka, third. The women’s 21km race went to Kathy Deacon from Invercargill while Baxter Pollard, Wānaka, skied strongly to win the 7km and the women’s 7km was clearly won by Hana Jones, also of Wānaka.
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PAGE 8
Crimeline
Prevention first… Kerin A Adrian Acting Sergeant
Muster with a difference Through the Covid mist, a ray of sunshine brought smiles to the cross-country skiing community in Wānaka after Level D2 put paid to the Merino Muster. Merino Muster is a cross country ski event similar to a city marathon where the elite compete alongside recreational skiers. In its place, the organising committee designed an event to
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THURSDAY 23.09.21 - WEDNESDAY 29.09.21
Hello again Wānaka. Well with us settling into our level 2 lifestyle things are looking a little bit more normal in and around Wānaka. With that in mind what a mixed bag of offerings your local Police have had this week. A petrol drive-off from a service station is resulting in further enquires as a registration number was taken and the driver has been named. Hopefully this will be resolved quickly. A Lewis Hamilton understudy also decided to plant his foot this week and was captured on radar at 88kph in a 40 zone. He didn’t see the Police vehicle behind him and blew an alcohol level which provided him with a fine and 50 demerits. Coupled with the 28-day suspension of driver’s licence for the speed, it was not a good choice of actions. A trespass notice was issued to a homeowner who was becoming very frustrated with contractors working on a property beside his until early evening. We know the lockdown had knock on effects regarding timings for building and such, but with that in mind, tradies should also be aware of how much noise pollution can be caused on site and how frustrating it can be those living beside it. A timely reminder also this week of how road conditions can change and how becoming distracted while driving can have severe consequences. Police had to humanely destroy a deer which had been hit by a vehicle on the Lake Hāwea - Albert Town highway on Thursday night. There was evidence of two other deer also having been hit in the same area. So, watch your speed and watch out for stock on the road - they don’t have much in the way of road sense. On Saturday a driver had a very lucky escape after becoming distracted while driving on SH6 near the Wānaka Airport and losing control of her vehicle. The vehicle rolled approximately five times before a fence post entered the vehicle. She sustained no injuries and may have used up all her luck towards a Lotto win. Police have been kept busy with more Family Harm incidents this week with a range of actions from warnings to arrests being made. Please remember help is there and always available. Please contact the Wānaka Community Hub to be put in touch with agencies which can help when times get tough. Now as we are in level two remember mask wearing is mandatory in many places, shops, supermarkets, and other areas where potential interaction with others may occur. So, if you are asked to put a mask on by a staff member of that establishment it is because it is a mandatory requirement. It is not a slur on you personally but is a requirement to prevent any spread of the disease. An “I forgot it” or “it’s in the car, I won’t be long” doesn’t cut it. We all need to do our part to stop this disease - unless level four looks good again to people. Your behaviour matters so please do the right thing. Finally, there was an extreme act of vandalism on two tiny houses and a van which was parked at the Hikuwai Estate over the last week. Both houses have been destroyed beyond any form of liveability with thousands of dollars of damage done. A van in the area has also been extensively damaged. Forensic investigations are underway to identify the culprits and hopefully gain reparation to the owners for the damage. If you have any information around this Police would like to hear from you. Well, that’s all from me this week, as I said quite a mixed bag, so we have been kept busy. Until next time, stay safe, please stick to the rules and be kind to each other.
THE WĀNAKA SUN
Sun Views
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Back in the swing Viv Milsom
journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz
The ANZ Private Wānaka Golf Club Tournament, one of the country’s most popular tournaments, will be played over five days next week having been delayed by Covid restrictions. Despite Covid setbacks though, the Women’s tournament filled up within 24 hours, with 200 golfers, plus a wait list. Play starts on Monday morning with an individual Stableford competition, followed by a team four ball best ball on Tuesday and the 36-hole individual Championship on Wednesday. With Central Otago’s unpredictable spring weather, players need to be prepared for anything, including snow. The weather is no deterrent though to this popular tournament, with old friends and new gathering for three days of golf and socialising. While the majority of players are locals, over a third come from out of town, most from around the South Island. The Men’s tournament will run over just two days this year on Friday and Saturday, with a much smaller field of around 125 golfers. “The men’s field is always smaller than the women’s,” says Liz McRae, “but this year, because there was a clash with the Arrowtown Golf Club Men’s Championship we’ve made the decision to cancel the Wānaka Men’s 36-hole Championship.” With over $20,000 in prize money spread across the women’s and men’s competitions, players who come up with their best golf will not go away empty-handed. “We hope that under Level 2 we will still be able to hold the prize-givings,” says Liz. For the rest, there are the raffles, which help raise money for the club, at the same time as they
Liz McRae
raise the spirits of the golfers who have not played so well, which, let’s face it, is usually most of us. The Wānaka Golf Club began in the 1920’s and this tournament has been running since 1936, making it one of the longest running, as well as one of the most popular golf competitions in the country. Tournament convenor and top player, Liz McRae has also had a long association with the event. She has been convener for 15 years, as well as a frequent winner of the Women’s Championship. She is Wānaka’s living golfing legend: not only a great golfer, but a player who has given much back to the Wānaka and Otago golfing community. With the first players teeing off just after 7am on Monday it is now up to the weather gods and Covid. We will let you know who the winners are next week.
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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.
PUBLIC NOTICE
N o t i c e b o a rd | P a p a P ā n u i Notice of Decisions on QLDC Proposed District Plan
Variation to Chapter 11 Large Lot Residential and Chapter 27 Subdivision & Development & Stage 3b Walter Peak Zoning Pursuant to clause 10 and 11 of Schedule 1 of the Resource Management Act 1991, public notice is hereby given as of 23 September 2021 that at its meeting on 16 September 2021, the Queenstown Lakes District Council (Council) has made decisions on the submissions and further submissions on the following: • The variation to Chapter 11 Large Lot Residential and Chapter 27 Subdivision and Development; and • To Stage 3b (Walter Peak Zoning) The effect of the decisions is to adopt the recommendations of the Hearing Commissioners to: • confirm amended provisions for Chapter 11 Large Lot Residential and Chapter 27 Subdivision and Development; and •confirm amended provisions for Chapter 46 Rural Visitor Zone as it relates to the Walter Peak Rural Visitor Zone and the associated District Plan mapping application at Walter Peak. The Proposed District Plan is amended in accordance with the Council’s decisions from the date of this public notice. The decision report and decisions version of the chapters and web mapping application together with the reasons for the decision 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 the variation to Chapters 11 and 27 or Stage 3b Walter Peak Zoning may appeal the relevant decision to the Environment Court within 30 working days of the service of the notice of the decision (by 5 November 2021). For further information on making an appeal see the Environment Court website. For further information on the district plan review please contact Queenstown Lakes District Council on 03 441 0499 or email PDPenquiries@qldc.govt.nz.
Queenstown Lakes District Council Meeting Schedule for October 2021 Now available in-store.
Phone: 03 443 8000, Top of Helwick Street, Wānaka
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 October 2021. Audit, Finance & Risk Committee – Council Chambers, 10 Gorge Road, Queenstown. Thursday 14 October at 10.00am. Planning & Strategy Committee – Council Chambers, 10 Gorge Road, Queenstown. Thursday 21 October at 10.00am. Council Meeting – Council Chambers, 10 Gorge Road, Queenstown. Thursday 28 October at 1.00pm. 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
open: Mon-Sat 9am to 6Pm • Sun 10am to 6Pm THE WĀNAKA SUN
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PAGE 9
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SITUATION VACANT REGISTERED NURSES & CARE GIVERS – PRIVATE PATIENT We are seeking Registered Nurses and Care Givers to provide private care to a patient in the Wanaka area as part of a small team. This rewarding role will be suited to health care professionals who take pride in providing the highest level of care, and who are patient and empathetic. You must also have excellent communication skills and be able to manage your time effectively. The health care team provide 24/7 care and operate a flexible roster built around our teams other commitments. The hours or work are from 8am – 2pm or 2pm – 8pm. To further discuss your suitability for this role and the nature of the care required by the patient, please contact Tracey@hrsouth.co.nz or phone 02108334633
TEACHER OF MUSIC – PART TIME (FIXED TERM) We are looking for an experienced registered music teacher to cover junior and senior music classes for 4-5 weeks starting Week 1 next term. Please email principal@cromwell.school. nz with any inquiries and a CV and covering letter if you are interested in this position.
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PUBLIC NOTICE
SERVICE
THANKS
Wanaka Pharmacy is your local pharmacy. We’re the big pharmacy at the top of Helwick Street - open from 8 to 6 Monday to Saturday and 10 to 6 on Sundays. Ph 443 8000. The Salvation Army Family Store is open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and Saturdays 9.30am to 4pm and most statutory holidays. We look forward to seeing you in our wonderful store.
Thanks to everyone who comes to Wastebusters to donate goods, shop and recycle. Your support helps us work for zero waste and a resourceful community.
WANTED
Appointments for Guardians of Lake Wanaka The Minister of Conservation invites expressions of interest from persons wishing to be considered for appointment to the Guardians of Lake Wanaka. The Guardians of Lake Wanaka was established in 1973 and the core function of the Guardians is to report to and advise the Minister of Conservation on all matters relating to the Lake Wanaka Preservation Act 1973. Persons interested in becoming a Lake Guardian should be knowledgeable or have an interest in the lakes natural habitats and be familiar with the social and legislative issues associated with the management of this significant southern lake. An appointment to the Guardians is usually for a three-year term. The Guardians meet several times a year in Wanaka and meeting fees and travel expenses are payable. Application forms are available from the Department of Conservation Wanaka Office, telephone (03) 443 9742 or email wanakavc@doc.govt.nz Applications close on 15 October 2021.
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ARE YOU OUR NEW EDITOR? A unique position in one of New Zealand’s most desirable communities has become available at The Wānaka Sun. We are looking for a full-time editor who can build on recent changes in our weekly publication and drive up readership on our on-line platform. The successful applicant will be a respected multi-skilled journalist with a reputation for outstanding communication, organisation and leadership – and someone comfortable with a camera and digital media. He or she will constantly update our website and produce a weekly print product filled with breaking news, well subbed supplied content, regular columns and great photography. Our new editor will, ideally, arrive with a sound knowledge of Wānaka. Journalism will be our new editor’s life, not 9-to-5. The successful applicant will see this role as a long-term appointment. Organising content and building contacts will be two of the major strengths of our new editor who will work in the community. Our new editor will be a self-starter, highly motivated and flexible. Mentoring will be available if our new editor requires it. If you are looking for a challenging role in a positive, friendly environment, plus the benefits of working in one of the fastest-growing regions in the country, apply today to admin@thewanakasun.co.nz with your CV and cover letter. Applicants must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand. THURSDAY 23.09.21 - WEDNESDAY 29.09.21
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
NOTICE Cut rags (100% cotton) and drop cloths, only $7 for a big bag. Now in the yard container at Wastebusters. Open 9-5 seven days. Business Networking International. The Wanaka chapter of BNI meets weekly at 7am Tuesday morning. Great networking opportunity to grow your business. Contact Randal Dobbs for information 021 973 043 The Salvation Army Family store is able to collect your donations, this service is available one day a week please phone the store on 443 5068 to make a booking.
STORAGE
Clean, dry, safe storage available now. Ezystor Self Storage, 12 Gordon Road, Wānaka, Ph: 021 242 1630.
SUN TEAM WĀNAKA’S INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER ISSUE 1045
Free delivery to Wānaka, Cromwell and surrounds, PO boxes in Makarora, Cromwell, Haast, Wānaka, Albert Town and Hāwea. Also distributed to businesses in the Wānaka business district Average circulation: 15,000 weekly. Phone: 03 443 5252 • Fax: 03 443 5250 News Editor: Roy Pilott • 027 4500 115 editor@thewanakasun.co.nz News tips: editor@thewanakasun.co.nz Advertising: adrep@thewanakasun.co.nz Admin: Benn Ashford • 021 956 740 admin@thewanakasun.co.nz Mail: PO Box 697, Wānaka Deadlines: Display Advertising 4pm Friday prior to publication. marketing@thewanakasun.co.nz 03 443 5252 Classified Advertising 5pm Monday prior admin@thewanakasun.co.nz Subscriptions: $175 within NZ (including GST) per year. Overseas rates on request. Remittances to PO Box 697, Wānaka, NZ.
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PUBLIC NOTICE
N o t i c e b o a rd | P a p a P ā n u i Queenstown Lakes District Council Final Proposal for Representation Arrangements for the 2022 Local Elections Submissions
Queenstown-Whakatipu Ward
Primarily to the west of the Kimiākau Shotover River, this ward encompasses Jacks Point, Hanley’s Farm, Kingston, Frankton, Quail Rise, Kelvin Peninsula, Glenorchy, central Queenstown and Fernhill.
Arrowtown-Kawarau Ward
Largely following the line of the Kimiākau Shotover River and covering the area to the east, with the external boundary to the north and east meeting the Wānaka-Upper Clutha Ward at the top of the Crown Range. The communities within this proposed ward would be Arrowtown, Gibbston Valley, Shotover Country, Lake Hayes Estate, Dalefield and Arthurs Point.
Wānaka-Upper Clutha Ward
From the top of the Crown Range and all of the Upper Clutha Area including Hāwea up to just beyond Makarora and including part of the Matukituki Valley in Mt Aspiring National Park.
On 16 September 2021 the Queenstown Lakes District Council considered the submissions received on its initial proposal regarding the representation arrangements for the Council and the Wānaka Community Board to apply for the local elections to be held on 8 October 2022. The Council received 303 submissions on its initial proposal. Of these, almost 75% were from Wānaka-Upper Clutha area, with about 16% from Arrowtown and the remainder from residents in Queenstown-Wakatipu or out of town. The Council, meeting as a committee of the whole, held two hearings of submissions on 26 and 27 August 2021, welcoming 31 speakers who spoke to their written submissions. • Most submissions from Wānaka-Upper Clutha sought retention of the Wānaka Community Board, identifying the area is a separate community of interest. • Most of the submissions from Arrowtown sought retention of the ward and the single Councillor representative. The population that each member will represent is as follows:
Other objections raised through submissions were as follows: • Altering the boundary of the proposed Kawarau Ward to include the existing Arrowtown Ward to reflect a wider community of interest primarily east of the Kimiākau Shotover River but moving Kingston, Kelvin Peninsula, Jacks Point and Hanley’s Farm to be in the proposed Queenstown-Whakatipu Ward. • Creating wards for other small communities, such as Lake Hāwea, justified by the case for retaining the existing Arrowtown Ward. • Creating more community boards for small communities throughout the district. In addition, Tatauranga Aotearoa Statistics New Zealand (via Mana Kāwanatanga ā Rohe Local Government Commission) provided advice to the Council that the meshblock pattern had been altered and that new population estimates (June 2020) based on the 2018 Census data was available and these should be applied to the Council’s final proposal. Final Proposal Having considered all the submissions, the recommendation to Council is that it adopts an amended proposal as follows:
Ward
Population
Members
Population per member
(Statistics NZ June 2020 population estimates) Queenstown-Whakatipu Ward
18,450
4
4,613
Arrowtown-Kawarau Ward
13,000
3
4,633
Wānaka-Upper Clutha Ward
15,830
4
3,958
District
47,280
11
4,298
In accordance with section 19V(2) of the Local Electoral Act 2001 the population that each member represents must be within the range of 4,298 +/- 10% (3,868 to 4,727), unless particular community of interest considerations justify otherwise.
• That all Councillors are elected in wards; • The names of the wards shall be: Queenstown-Whakatipu, Arrowtown-Kawarau and Wānaka-Upper Clutha; • The boundaries of the wards shall be: • The boundary of the Wānaka-Upper Clutha Ward will be the same as the present Wānaka Ward; • The boundary of the Arrowtown-Kawarau Ward will be 3038701, 3038702, 4014322, 4014303, 4014329, 4014328, 3039504, 3038219, 3038106, 4001028, 4001203, 4016932, 4018096, 4001213, 3039727, 4001031, 4014322, 4015842, with the interior including the full area of the present Arrowtown Ward; • The boundary of the Queenstown-Whakatipu Ward will be 4014604, 4010455, 4014325, 3039405, 4015498, 3038202, 4011608, 4011609, 4010439, 4010440, 4000500, 4010438, 4017638, 3040001; • Four Councillors will be elected by the voters in the Queenstown-Whakatipu Ward, four Councillors will be elected by voters in the Wānaka-Upper Clutha Ward and three Councillors will be elected by voters in the ArrowtownKawarau Ward; • That there shall be a Wānaka-Upper Clutha Community of Interest and a Wānaka-Upper Clutha Community Board comprising four members elected directly by voters in the Wānaka-Upper Clutha Ward as a whole and three of the four Wānaka-Upper Clutha Ward Councillors as an appointed member (to be appointed by Council).
Pursuant to S19J of the Local Electoral Act 2001, the Wānaka-Upper Clutha Community Board will be comprised of four members elected directly by voters in the Wānaka-Upper Clutha Ward as a whole and three of the four WānakaUpper Clutha Ward Councillors as an appointed member (to be appointed by Council).
The Council considers the final proposal based on the submissions is appropriate for the following reasons:
Appeals and objections
• The proposal creates three compliant wards in accordance with S19V(2) of the Local Electoral Act [‘LEA’] (+/-10%) that reflect communities of interest; • The proposal preserves the community of interest in Wānaka-Upper Clutha by retaining the Wānaka-Upper Clutha Community Board in accordance with S19J of the LEA
Any person who made a submission on the Council’s initial proposal may lodge an appeal under S19O of the LEA against the Council’s decision. An appeal must relate to the matters raised in that person’s submission.
The other matters raised in the submissions were rejected for the following reasons: • The resulting representation would not comply with S19V(2); • The Representation Review as prescribed by the LEA does not include the ability to create new territorial authorities, e.g. a new district council subdivided from Queenstown Lakes District Council; • No other Communities of Interest had been identified pursuant to S19J to create additional community boards in the district; • The Representation Review as prescribed by the LEA does not include the process to amend the name of a territorial authority, e.g. changing the name of the Council from Queenstown Lakes District Council, which is a process governed by the New Zealand Geographic Board Ngā Pou Taunaha o Aotearoa.
Community Board Representation It is proposed that the following community board be elected: Ward
Description
Wānaka-Upper Clutha Community Board
From the top of the Crown Range and all of the Wānaka Upper Clutha Area including Hāwea up to just beyond Makarora and including part of the Matukituki Valley in Mt Aspiring National Park.
Any person who objects to the final proposal may lodge an objection under S19P of the LEA to the Council’s final proposal. Any objection must identify the matters to which the objection relates. Appeals and objections must be made in writing and must be received by the Council no later than 5.00pm on 22 October 2021. Appeals and objections are to be forwarded to: Attention: Jane Robertson (Electoral Officer) 03 441 0499 Physical address: Council Offices, 10 Gorge Road, Queenstown Postal address: Queenstown Lakes District Council, Private Bag 50072, Queenstown Email: governance@qldc.govt.nz (Subject marked ‘Representation Review 2021 Appeals and Objections)
The final representation proposal is set out below.
Further information
Council Representation
Direct any queries regarding the Council’s decision to Jane Robertson (contact details above). Mike Theelen
It is proposed that the Council comprise eleven members elected from three wards, and the mayor. The three wards reflect the following identified communities of interest:
Chief Executive 17 September 2021
Private Bag 50072 | 47 Ardmore Street Wānaka Phone 03 443 0024 | www.qldc.govt.nz
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THE WĀNAKA SUN
N o t i c e b o a rd | P a p a P ā n u i
Queenstown Lakes District Council
Public Notice is hereby given in terms of Section 46 of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 that an Extraordinary Meeting of the Council will be held as follows. Extraordinary Council Meeting – Tuesday 28 September 1.00pm, via Zoom. The above meeting will take place online and will be available to stream on the Council’s Facebook Page. Mike Theelen CHIEF EXECUTIVE
THURSDAY 23.09.21 - WEDNESDAY 29.09.21
Private Bag 50072 | 47 Ardmore Street Wānaka Phone 03 443 0024 | www.qldc.govt.nz
PAGE 11
Sun Sport
Winter Olympians named A selection event at Cardrona last weekend unveiled the first five New Zealand athletes named to compete in the winter Olympics in Beijing in February. Four are based in Wānaka and the fifth, Alice Robinson, is based in Queenstown. Further Beijing 2022 selections will take place between October and January. Alpine, cross country and freeski and snowboard athletes are working towards qualification, as well as athletes from ice sports including speedskating, ice figure skating, luge and curling. The five named last weekend were: • PyeongChang Winter Olympic Games bronze medallists and reigning World Champions Zoi Sadowski-Synnott (20, snowboard slopestyle and big air). • Nico Porteous (19, freeski halfpipe). • Three-time World Cup Winner and Olympian, Alice Robinson (19, alpine ski racing giant slalom). • PyeongChang Olympian Finn Bilous (21, freeski slopestyle and big air). • Margaux Hackett (22, freeski slopestyle and big air). Sadowski-Synnott became the first snowboarder to successfully defend an FIS Snowboard Slopestyle World Championships when she retained her title in March. Porteous is the Freeski Halfpipe World Champion and X Games Superpipe gold medallist.
PAGE 12
PHOTOS: @thenzteam
Celebration time – from left, Zoi Sadowski-Synnott, Margaux Hackett, Alice Robinson, Finn Bilous and, sitting on shoulders, Nico Porteous.
"I'm feeling great about Beijing. I'm looking forward to getting there and just doing what I love and skiing at my best," said Porteous. "It's great to be back on snow and we're getting some really good training in so I'm feeling good." Alice Robinson was a member of the 2018 Olympic Winter Games team at 16 and has gone on to become New Zealand's most successful ski racer. Finn Bilous, PyeongChang 2018 Olympian and 2018 Winter Games NZ big air bronze
medallist and Margaux Hackett, a first time Winter Olympian, will compete in the freeski slopestyle event as well as participating in the freeski big air event, which is making its Olympic debut in Beijing 2022. The selected athletes along with other Snow Sports athletes working towards qualification and nomination will head to the Northern Hemisphere in the coming weeks for their pre-Olympic winter season. The Winter Games will run from February 4 to 20.
THURSDAY 23.09.21 - WEDNESDAY 29.09.21
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Burnout event off
The annual burnout competition in Cromwell has become another Covid victim. Heavy Trax Hire Central Motor Speedway club president Andy Erskine says the event - scheduled initially for Saturday - is always a popular pre-season gathering. Postponing the event had been a practical decision. “The committee agreed the extra efforts and costs involved in holding the burnout under Delta level 2, or even the unknown of Delta level 1 restrictions, would be better focused on working towards making Labour Weekend’s season opener something really special for everyone,” he said. “We’ll plan to run the burnout competition during the season instead.” Drivers come from all over the country, and a number of high-profile drivers in Auckland would be unable to enter. Postponing now, rather than waiting for the next government announcement, enabled South Island drivers to change accommodation bookings and make plans for a mid-season date, he said. The club committee is putting systems in place so events can go ahead as future alert levels allow. “We need to do the right thing for our drivers, spectators and sponsors, but it’s much more than that,” Erskine said. “Speedway is well supported by the wider community. Whole families enjoy the fun, local volunteer efforts help make events happen, local businesses sponsor events; everyone recognises that speedway brings thousands of people to the region throughout the season. “Finding solutions so we can continue to hold events is something that will be good for everyone.” It all comes down to the ability to adapt, he says.
THE WĀNAKA SUN
