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From left, Lydia Bradey receives Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to mountaineering; Gary Dickson awarded Companion of the Queen’s Service Order for his service to search and rescue; and John Taylor is awarded the Queen’s Service Medal for his services to the community.
Locals top New Year’s honours list Caroline Moratti
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
hree locals made the Queen’s honours list this year; two from Hāwea and one from Wānaka. Their areas of service and expertise speak of the environments in which they live; mountaineering, search and rescue, and community. The Wānaka Sun spoke to each of them about their passions and how they have helped shape the community in which we live.
T
Lydia Bradey Lydia Bradey has been awarded the title of Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to mountaineering. Bradey is an internationally acclaimed mountaineer who, over the past 35 years, has been a trailblazer for women climbers and an inspiration to many. She grew up in New Zealand and resides in Lake Hāwea with her partner Dean and cat
Koshka. As a 17-year-old she summited Mount Cook and Mount Aspiring, going on to make seven first female ascents of the 10 ‘Big Walls’ in Yosemite Valley, California in the 1980s. Each cliff took up to nine days to climb the deathdefying slopes. Bradey was the first woman to climb Mount Everest without supplementary oxygen, having achieved this amazing feat in 1988, and remains the only New Zealander to do so. She’s since climbed Everest six times, is the only New Zealand woman to have climbed the legendary mountain more than once, and has guided it successfully five times. Collectively, with her partner Dean Staples, they have made 15 ascents of Everest, the highest number of shared ascents of any household in the world. In 1987 Bradey became the first woman in the Southern Hemisphere to climb one of the world’s 14, 8000m peaks. To date she has made over 30 expeditions to above 6000m,
having even hung for a week on the side of a cliff in a nail-biting experience. Bradey holds a BHSc (physiotherapy), and a postgrad certificate in acupuncture, but mainly splits her work schedule between mountain guiding and professional speaking. She uses her heath background to support an interest in occupational health and safety, described as “passionate about maximising the processes involved in big projects such as guiding the ascent of Everest.” Bradey is an IFMGA International Mountain & Ski Guide, and in 2011 was appointed Life Member of the New Zealand Alpine Club. Her achievements do more than inspire fellow mountaineers; in 2017 Jan Bolwell was stirred to write the play ‘Taking the High Ground’ about Bradey’s life. In 2017, Bradey was one of three Kiwis to make the first New Zealand ascent of the world’s seventh highest mountain, Dhaulagiri, 8157m, Nepal, and in July 2019
became the first Kiwi woman to climb Broad Peak, 8047m, Pakistan. Now, having been awarded Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit, Bradey tells the Wānaka Sun, “I am deeply honoured and grateful to receive the award of ONZM – and such a great Christmas present! I feel it is a motivator to reach out to others more, in order to share the beauty of the mountains, the journey of self discovery they lead you on, and the FUN they bestow!”
Gary Dickson Gary Dickson will be made a Companion of the Queen’s Service Order for his service to search and rescue, which exceeds more than 30 years of volunteer efforts in the South Island. Dickson has served as the communications advisor for Wānaka Search and Rescue (SAR) for the past 18 years and as the alpine rescue leader for nine years in his dedication to the role. Continued on page 7
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Ebikes stolen from Beacon Hill property
PHOTO: Facebook
Two ebikes were stolen out of a garage in Beacon Hill.
Caroline Moratti
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
The holiday season can be a wonderful time of year, but for some it can come with unexpected loss and frustration. Tiffany Firth, chef and owner of Wānaka business Tiritiri Kitchen, woke up on December 28 to discover two ebikes were stolen from her home’s garage in Beacon Hill. The ebikes belonged to Firth’s mother, with the family having enjoyed frequently using them over the holiday period. “It’s very disappointing you know, isn’t it?” Firth says. “The police think its an opportunist thing, someone might have just taken them and they might find them in town a week later, abandoned when they’ve run out of battery, if they were really proper thieves they would have taken all the other stuff.”
The ebikes were the only item stolen and were parked in a garage with the main access closed but one door slightly ajar; a mistake that Firth has been quick to correct. One car was inside the garage at the time, with another parked in front of the door. Firth says, “It wouldn’t have been easy for them to do it, it wasn’t like [the garage] was right on the road and they could go right in. They sort of had to go in past the driveway and squeeze past the cars to get in there.” Ebikes typically cost around $2500, and Firth and her family anxiously await news of their whereabouts. In the meantime, Firth posted her frustration on Facebook where a lot of other locals chimed in with similar experiences. One called this time of year “silly season” with predictions thefts will rise over the coming weeks. Police advise to always lock doors and garages, and keep an eye out for your neighbours.
Emergency services were called to the scene to assist the driver.
PHOTO: THE Wānaka Sun Archive
Farm bike accident near Albert Town Caroline Moratti
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
A farm bike accident occurred just outside of Albert Town on Friday December 27, resulting in a reported broken collar bone for the driver. It's an important reminder to ride with care both on and off the road this holiday season. A policeman at the scene reportedly said that the man had been trying to avoid riding through a pond of water when the accident occurred. “Police were called about 12.10pm on Friday
to assist ambulance at the scene of a crash on SH6 near Dublin Bay Road, involving a farm bike, which I understand took place off the road,” Police told the Wānaka Sun. Police and a St Johns ambulance attended the scene alongside two volunteer Wānaka Fire and Emergency NZ crews. Agriculture is considered one of New Zealand’s deadliest industries, with quad bike related accidents on the rise. Nearly 350 quad bike-related injuries required hospitalisation in the Midland Trauma System between 2012 and 2018, with some losing their life as a result.
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Young local beekeeper recognised Ollie Blyth
journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz
Eighteen year old Cardrona Valley beekeeper Jess Curtis has won an Apiculture New Zealand Ron Mossop Youth Scholarship to help jumpstart a career in the beekeeping industry. Curtis has already started an apprenticeship with ApiNZ in beekeeping, and works part time for Taylor Pass Honey as well as assisting her grandfather and his 50 hives on Branch Creek Station. The scholarship, worth $2,000, will go towards paying for Curtis’ tuition fees, as well as a one-year membership of ApiNZ and a spot at their national conference.
Curtis said that winning the scholarship came as a surprise, “It's quite early on for me. I've only just really started my apprenticeship. I kind of applied for this scholarship not expecting to get it at all.” Curtis finished school in 2018 and spent last year travelling around the country. Beekeeping has always been a big part of their life, having ‘beeing’ fascinated by her grandfather’s bees and getting a bee suit at the age of five. This opportunity means that Curtis will now be able to jump head first into the industry. They said that, “It's really cool to get that recognition and get my name out there… I'm excited to go to the conference and meet people there and get a connection in the industry.”
PHOTO: Supplied
Clark’s Auto Limited was the victim of vandalism last week – one of many incidents over the holiday season.
Vandals strike throughout the district Francesca Maria Nespolo
journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz
Vandals struck a Hāwea business on the night of December 28, or early hours of the 29th. Mike Clark, owner of Clark's Autos Limited said, “There are seven windows smashed along the north side of the building. It happened late Saturday night/early Sunday morning. I have heard there was other damage done around Lake Hāwea the same night so maybe connected.” Thankfully Clark had emptied the workshop of equipment so he could repaint the floor and walls. “Unfortunately we have no idea who has done this,” he said. Police confirmed “We have [received] a complaint of property damage for the mechanic’s in Hāwea and are aware of more damage around town.” Social media has been littered with a few people reporting vandalism of letterboxes and car wing mirrors over the last week. There were also complaints of street signs on Ardmore Street being pulled out, plants removed and toilets damaged. One Wānaka resident contacted the Wānaka Sun to confirm he had reported vandalism to cars on December 30. “I rang up the non-emergency number on that morning of discovery of damage
to vehicles and told would be a five-minute wait before I could complete a report for damage, so completed the form online.” The Aubrey Road resident also said, “I also called the 111 number one night later [December 31] to report a big group of 15 to 17 year olds roaming down the street (lower Aubrey Road onto Beacon Point Road) pushing bins at 10.45pm, hitting cars and being very rowdy. The commotion got us, and three more houses of neighbours, out onto the street to shepherd them away...the police said they would dispatch a car to look into this.” However, there is ambiguity about what reports Police have received and what what they haven’t. A Police media spokesperson said, “I can't see any jobs like the one you reference that have been reported to Police – nor can I see any other vandalism jobs reported on the same dates in Wānaka and the wider area.” Whilst social media was quick to blame tourists, there is no suggestion that these incidents are caused specifically by tourists or locals – a combination of both is likely. Police would encourage anyone who has information regarding these incidents to call 105. If you witness an incident like this occurring or feel in danger please call 111 immediately.
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The mystery of Ruby Island
PHOTO: Supplied
Michele Lacroix and Jude Battson clean up Ruby Island.
Ruby Island gets some tender love and care Caroline Moratti
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
Ruby Island had a productive working bee recently, with many helping out in the face of the recent floods. Gaining access to the island was a “challenge” according to Jude Battson, Wānaka Community Board representative for Ruby Island, as the number of logs floating close to the island blocked traditional tie-up spots. The storage sheds had been flooded, with the BBQ still underwater and the jetty rendered unusable thanks to the water level. Battson said it was “hard to believe there was even a track on the west side as the grass was thigh height. It was manicured beautifully at the end of September,” but noted that the wild mix of rain and sun had been beneficial for the native trees in the area. After three hours of hard work, the team of eight had cleared the
tracks and dance floor, cleaned the storage shed and toilets, and even pruned some of the weeds. “So all ready to go for the holiday season” Battson declared. Battson, along with Diana Manson, Queenstown Lakes District Council parks and reserves officer, will continue to support the new team in future working bees and hopes to get more on board. Battson said, “getting community members to adopt a spot to maintain, is possibly a good way to eradicate the noxious weeds, and keep the island looking great for everyone who wishes to visit.” For those who wish to visit the infamous Ruby Island this summer, please respect the beautiful environment that Battson and others have worked so hard to preserve. Don’t light fires or cigarettes, keep your dog on a leash and remember camping is a no-go. Further regular working bees will be advertised.
What’s in a name? Ruby Island continues to spark curiosity and inspire stories.
Caroline Moratti
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
Ruby island has enjoyed a rich and varied history but still a few mysteries remain surrounding the beautiful island on Lake Wanaka’s shores. Most notably, the issue of how the landmass got its name continues to baffle and raise questions. The Upper Clutha Historical Records Society (UCHRS) investigated the issue in their newsletter, coming to the conclusion that, “No one knows for sure why it was eventually named Ruby but perhaps its shape like a teardrop-jewel has something to do with it.” Before the island was called Ruby, it had a myriad of other names, from Matakitaki (translates to mean ‘to gaze upon’), Merino Island (other islands in the lake were called Sheep Island and Ram Island), Roys Island (named after one of the earliest settlers) and Eely’s Island. Ruby’s Cinema advertises ‘The legend of Ruby’ on their site, with two pages of highly detailed information surrounding a Chinese Irish-Catholic maiden born in 1911 whoses “remarkable, enchantingly exotic features and her fiercely determined iron will” captured the attention of the men of Wānaka. Rubys cinema claims she attended the first infamous cabarets on the island after having fled to Central Otago to escape an arranged marriage, alongside an array of other details. Ken Allan, Treasurer of UCHRS, questions the
PHOTO: Wānaka Sun archive
legitimacy of the tale, saying “the story simply doesn’t “hold water” and that the name Ruby Island was around as early as 1885, mentioned in the Cromwell Argus despite Ruby supposedly being born in 1911. Wānaka Sun reached out to Ruby’s Cinema about the inconsistencies, who responded by saying “The Legend of Ruby is entirely fictional!” This however, hasn’t stopped the legend from infiltrating common perception with Jo Mills, owner of Rippon winery which directly faces the island, said: “My understanding was [that] Ruby was one of the cabaret dancers but I may well be wrong!” Ruby Island is infamous amongst locals for its wild cabarets that took place between 1927-1930. John Hunt got a permit to build a dancefloor on the island, which saw up to 200 people party on the island in outlandish fancy dress parties. Strict alcohol laws meant that these parties were technically “dry” but in name only, with patrons bringing their own supplies to the island. Partygoers managed to dodge suspicious police by watching for masthead lights on the water. After John Hunt’s departure to Maungawera in 1930, the island reverted to bush and was maimed by the occasional fire in the 1970s and 1990s. UCHRS sums up their findings by saying “an extensive planting project by local residents following the 1990s fire helped the island become what it is today” with working bee projects ongoing to preserve native bushlife.
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64 years of visiting Glendhu (and counting) Ollie Blyth
journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz
One person has seen more of Wānaka than many locals born and bred here, even though they don’t live here. Christmas 2019 was David McGregor’s 64th year visiting the Wānaka area since 1956. Currently a Gore resident, McGregor has kept on returning to the Glendhu Bay area each year for holidays and other recreational activities. McGregor said that the thing that makes Wānaka so important is, “the hot dry climate and beautiful fresh clean mountain water in the lake and the swimming, water skiing, fishing, walking, and four wheel driving in the pristine surroundings,” on top of that, he added, “the magnificent scenery and million dollar views from our beachside caravan and looking at the stars and satellites on the clear mild nights. [Also the] long days and daylight till after 10pm.” Wānaka has undergone a vast amount of change over those 60 years, transforming from a sleepy ski town to the tourist hotspot we know as home today. McGregor remembers the old days fondly, “the road was gravel with pot holes a plenty. It was better to go to town to shop in the boat. [Glendhu Bay] was serviced only by a water supply from a dam up the hill and several long drop toilets… once without any electric power. It was originally a real camper’s camp. In a way it is spoiled with such amenities. New lodges and cabins too, now. Lots more people come to Glendhu bay now than 50 years ago and they have extended the size of the camp twice over that period. My brother and his wife, Doug and Lillian Malcolm started coming to Glendhu before we did – probably about 1954. They brought our boat with them. It was called Rock ‘n’ Roll and the beach mission was nicknamed The Holy Rollers. In the early days they had a resident ambulance officer who treated duck itch mainly. The butcher, green grocer, and grocer visited with loads of foodstuffs and the ‘Happy Wanderer’ brought ice creams. We had fires on the beach and fireworks on New Year's Eve. But that had been knocked on the head now.”
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Gore resident David McGregor has been visiting Glendhu Bay since 1956.
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Locals top New Year’s honours list Continued from page 1 “It’s almost busier than my real job, but someone’s gotta do it,” Dickson admits. Dickson moved down from Mountt Cook to Wānaka at the start of the century after seeing the picturesque benefits for guiding and mountaineering in the area. He’s credited as developing Wānaka SAR from a group of casual volunteers to one of the most professional volunteer alpine cliff rescue teams in New Zealand. “When you turned up to a job back then, you turned up with all your own gear, and so a volunteer had to have their own ropes etc, so it was like, oh well, we need to sort this out and someone needed to take it on and I did.” Since those days Dickson has gone from strength to strength, including a stint as advisor to Land SAR New Zealand as well as president of the New Zealand Mountain Guides Association. He’s represented New Zealand at the International Commission for Alpine Rescue and the International Federation of Mountain, helping to facilitate New Zealand’s Land SAR membership, and developed qualification standards for the New Zealand Mountain Guides Association. He credits the strong team around him that helps make his work possible, “from the committee to the fundraising to the politics through to developing and making sure you have
a great team…Wānaka is like this town of overachievers, so you just take all those over-achievers and put them together and you have awesome results.” There’s no denying the leadership that has helped lead that team however, with Dickson being personally involved in more than 200 rescue operations during his time volunteering. He’s “honoured” by this recent accolade, saying “I put my heart and soul into this thing and it's nice to get the recognition from my peers and from the general community, right up to the prime minister, to a lady on the other side of the world.” With no plans of slowing down anytime soon, Dickson hopes to keep performing and delivering his usual world-class standard. This latest honour is a testament to Dickson’s selfless attitude and passion to his craft. He said, “It’s a privilege, I’m humbled by it, and I know some people around me think I’ve done a decent enough job to put me forward for this thing, so thanks very much to them, I hope to do justice to them.”
John Taylor John Taylor has been awarded the Queen’s Service Medal for his service to the community. Taylor was born and bred in Lake Hāwea, his parents even starting the store that now stands as Lake Hāwea Store and Kitchen, and he’s been instrumental in contributing to growth and
success in the area. Starting with the Lake Hāwea advisory committee in the mid 80s, Taylor soon got stuck in as a founding member of the Lake Hāwea Volunteer Fire Brigade. “You start to get involved because of the people, you have some lovely people who are very knowledgeable, interesting, community minded. It wasn’t hard to get involved,” Taylor recalled. The brigade is one of his main highlights of his variety of achievements which is shown by his 30-plus years to his beloved station that he eventually left in 2008 after gaining life membership. Taylor’s been heavily involved in the Hāwea Community Association and the Guardians of Lake Hāwea since the early 90s, even serving as chairman three times for the latter. Under his leadership the Guardians were able to establishment toilet facilities on the western shoreline and a swimming embayment near the boat ramp, allowing swimmers access when the lake levels are low. It’s not an exaggeration to say that he’s literally shaped the Hāwea area with his passion and dedication. Taylor’s been a member of Wānaka Search and Rescue since 1982, awarded Life Member in 2017. He’s served on both Hāwea Flat School Committee, Hāwea Domain Board and the Lake Hāwea Community Centre Trustees committee,
not to mention he’s a current member of the Hāwea Dip Trust and the committee of the Upper Clutha Tramping Club. For the last five years Taylor’s served as chairman of the Hāwea District ANZAC Committee, helping to establish a war memorial for the district and organise ANZAC commemorations. If that wasn’t enough, he also works to maintain reserve land and oversee volunteer health and safety as an active member of the Lake Hāwea Foreshore Working Group. Needless to say, he’s been busy. Taylor said, “I couldn’t have done all this without the amazing support of my wife Diana, and my now three adult children, Jasmin, Rhys and Sophie, as well as some amazing mentors along the way.” His reaction to the medal was: “Stunned. Very much. Stunned, excited, very humbled. You get a letter like that and you think wow, total surprise.” Taylor and his wife are still yet to break the news to the grandkids, but admits they’ll have to start planning a party soon to celebrate the award with the community. Then it’ll be back to his volunteer efforts, but as far as Taylor’s concerned, “It’s always been a joy working with the particular groups of people that I work with, I’ve been very lucky.” Congratulations to Bradey, Dickson and Taylor on their incredible achievements.
CAMERA CLUB ‘IN FOCUS’ MOORE B BOB Wānaka Camera Club A rock concert is an exciting occasion and taking photos of the event can be both exhilarating and frustrating as the show can be chaotic, electric and breathtaking with extremely tricky lighting conditions. Stage lighting can be challenging as light and colours change quickly. The optimum exposure is often a compromise but a good setting may be evaluation/matrix metering and then a guesstimate of how much under or over exposure is needed. The use of our camera’s histogram is an invaluable tool for evaluating the right exposure in tricky lighting conditions. We will usually be shooting at a wide aperture so we will be playing with our shutter speed and ISO to give the right exposure. Focus on the performers and how they react on stage and be ready to respond instantly to capture spontaneous moments in the performance. Also attempt to compose for form – people (performers and audience) and objects on stage create interesting shapes and lines. The beautiful
lines of a guitar and /or its player can look better from some angles than others. Look to see the shapes and lines in our viewfinder and use them to make strong composition. Take a variety of pictures to convey the feel of the concert. Wide-angle shots convey the whole ensemble on stage and allows us to capture some of the crowd and scale of the show. Wide-angle shots are great but most of us like to get close and personal with the group so swap to a zoom lens (70200mm is ideal) to isolate individual band members. Geoff Perry’s picture at Gibbston Valley Festival in January 2019 is a great example of a rock image. He likes getting ‘close and personal’ so took the photo at the back of the mosh pit using an Olympus M1 fixed to a 300mm prime lens with an aperture of f4 shutter speed of 1/640th second and ISO of 1000. The club’s judge was impressed and gave the picture a merit’ award. Wānaka Camera Club is dedicated to help improve the skills of anyone interested in photography. We welcome anyone to join us, irrespective of photographic ability. If you know nothing about photography come along and see what we can do for you. Our next meeting is Monday February 10, 7.30pm at The St John’s Rooms, Link Way.
PHOTO: Geoff Perry
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201 9 IN R E V I E W
Sun News
Emma Conyngham
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
Reviewing our web traffic over the course of 2019 has been a very interesting exercise. Despite the local election, the visitor levy referendum, the consent to discharge wastewater and the ongoing debate surrounding the airport, none of those
stories made it into the top 10, or even top 20 stories that we published last year. What we have learnt (again) is that comments on social media are not a very accurate barometer of public feeling. An item may garner a lot of criticism from keyboard warriors on Facebook but the reality is, many people don’t read, don’t know or don’t care. Some big surprises were the sale of Steve
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Top stories of 2019
Hansen’s house being the second most-read story of the year, followed by the closure of some of our most popular hiking tracks. We know you’re an active bunch who love out outdoors but the third most read story of the year? Wow! With all the issues our town is grappling with, the conflict in Northlake was consistently the most read set of stories across the year – followed
by the lakefront masterplan. Positive, good news stories are rarely popular so I was thrilled that my personal favourite for the year slipped in at 12th place – the Hāwea Honeys from Hāwea Flat school winning the South Island championships for Jump Jam. Here are our top 12 most read stories of 2019. (All stories have been abridged).
1. Cardrona buys Treble Cone for $7 million 4. Wānaka midwife delivers concerns about On Tuesday June 18, Cardrona Alpine Resort local maternity care issues signed a conditional agreement to buy the Treble Cone Ski Area. Cardrona is now in a three-month due diligence period before going unconditional on the stunning, but struggling, Treble Cone. When asked why Treble Cone had struggled whilst Cardrona had thrived, Bridget Legnavsky, general manager for Cardrona, said she didn’t know why it happened, but that understanding the plight of Treble Cone’s performance was all part of the due diligence study. But she is very optimistic that by bringing Cardrona, Treble PHOTO: Jackson Lana Cone, Pringles and Soho Basin together, the brand would be extremely strong. Legnavsky The $7million price tag took many people by surprise. said it’s early days to tell whether one season pass but she did admit that making a workable and could be purchased to cover both mountains affordable solution would be a priority.
“I have lived in Wānaka for 15 years and worked as a full time LMC for much of that time. I’ve had the privilege of delivering hundreds of babies in this area, many of whom I now see as teenagers around Wānaka. I feel in many ways that many of these mums and their families are an extension of my own family. We spend 10 months on a journey together. Sometimes joyous and sometimes devastatingly sad. After all of this time though I still absolutely love my job. "It no longer feels safe for me, or the mums and babies. After doing 18 weekends on call, I couldn’t find any other midwife willing to join this roster. We have at least 10 midwives in Wānaka with annual practicing certificates, but they choose not to
PHOTO: Supplied
Justine Quirke (left) and new mum Joanne Williamson with baby Phoebe.
work at this time. NZ currently has its highest ever number of midwives holding an annual practicing certificate. Sadly, many of these midwives don’t want to work in this current climate.”
3. Rob Roy closed. 5. Car-free, open space trial planned for lakefront Diamond Lake closed. A trial to create a car-free, public space connecting the Wānaka town centre to the lakefront will take Roy’s Peak closed
PHOTO: Wānaka Sun
7 Forest Heights sold for $990,000 over CV.
2. A million reasons for Steve Hansen to smile Whilst the All Blacks walked away empty handed from the Rugby World Cup, and his Christchurch home got passed in at auction, Steve and Natasha Hansen’s house at 7 Forest Heights, Peninsula Bay sold for $2.7million on October 1 – a whopping $990,000 over CV. Ray White agent, Rachel Walsh sold the 495msq house to a buyer who was oblivious to the house’s famous owner. “I think the buyer didn’t even know who he was and didn’t even know it was his house,” said Walsh. The Hansens originally paid $1.8million for the property when they purchased it in August 2016.
Department of Conservation (DOC) has announced that the Rob Roy Track and Diamond Lake Track, popular with locals and visitors alike, have been closed due to erosion and land-slips. “DOC is in the process of preliminary re-routing the Rob Roy Track due to a land-slip that undercut a section of PHOTO: Wānaka Sun track on the stepped area below the lower Rob Roy Glacier walk which is currently closed. lookout. At this stage we are unable to provide a completion date for this work however it is anticipated that is will not reopen until the New Year. DOC acknowledges that the closure of this track will be a significant inconvenience to visitors at what is a very busy time of year. Every effort has been made to avoid the need to close the track, but unfortunately the re-routing of the track has proved to be the only option available.” said DOC ranger Annette Grieve.
place next month with parts of Ardmore and Helwick streets pedestrianised for several days. Queenstown Lakes District Deputy Mayor Calum Macleod is looking forward to the trial. “We’re listening to what the community is telling us and have designed a short programme of activities that will better link our stunning lakefront to the town centre, allow for active travel and bring our people together to talk about how things might be in the future,” PHOTO: Queenstown Lakes District Council Macleod said. “Short term road closures may seem Wānaka town centre trial road closures. inconvenient; however, this should be seen as a If you build for cars you get cars! If you build for positive opportunity to look to change mindsets. people you get people!”
6. Census shows Wānaka growing faster than Queenstown
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PHOTO: Statistics NZ
Dark red shows the highest growth rates – demonstrating Wānaka’s growth rates consistently higher than Queenstown.
Wānaka knew it was growing but now the numbers are in from the 2018 census and the little town on the edge of the most beautiful lake in the country has skyrocketed to the top of the growth statistics. The census shows the total combined population of Queenstown Lakes ‘usually resident population’ is 39,153. In Wānaka district, the total population is 13,041. When examining the occupied dwellings rate,
THURSDAY 02.01.20 - WEDNESDAY 08.01.20
the difference between Queenstown and Wānaka are striking. Queenstown has seven SAs with over 50% of dwellings unoccupied – in reality, many of those houses are used as short-term holiday accommodation. Wānaka sits between 10-20 percent unoccupied. In regards to housing, the pressure in Hāwea stood out; their occupancy has gone from 357 houses occupied in 2013, to 462 in 2018. Since 2013, the number of occupied dwellings in Wānaka has gone from 2721 to 3675.
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Top stories of 2019
9. Government bails out 11. End of the road for Northlake Northlake’s KiwiBuild opposition
PHOTO: Ngāi Tahu atlas, Kā Huru Manu
The map drawn by H.K. Taiaroa in 1880 which detailed many of the names for the region that are in use today.
7. New school name steeped in history The name for the new primary school was announced yesterday after months of deliberation and consultation; Te Kura O Take Kārara. ‘Te Kura O’ means ‘The school of ’, so the name is therefore simply Te Kura O Take Kārara (not Te Kura O Take Kārara Primary School). Take Kārara is a historic name for a location that is very close to the site of the new school in
the Three Parks development adjacent to the Wānaka Recreation Centre. The recent Ngāi Tahu atlas, Kā Huru Manu, describes Take Kārara as a kāinga nohoanga, or settlement, at the southern end of Lake Wānaka. The site is clearly shown on the famous map drawn by H.K. Taiaroa in 1880 which detailed many of the names for the region that are in use today.
During question time in Parliament last week, Minister for Housing Phil Twyford confirmed under question by National's Housing spokesperson Judith Collins that the government has bailed out Winton, the developer behind Northlake, by buying the unsold KiwiBuild houses that failed to sell as part of their underwriting scheme. Winton has already removed the properties from their website – the houses are now the government’s problem. Despite this district almost breaking at the seams with acute accommodation shortages, the failure of Northlake’s KiwiBuild has come as no surprise to some. Opinions from a variety of commentators have said they were overpriced and not fit-for-purpose for families. At 76sqm, the footprint was the same as an inner city apartment in Auckland, but KiwiBuild apartments in central Auckland are selling for around $200k less than Wānaka.
10. Grocery gloves come off
PHOTO: Wānaka Sun
Niamh Shaw (front left) with members and friends of Wānaka Community Supporting our Northlake Neighbours Inc.
8. Northlake’s no-objection clause heads to the High Court In a move that has been anticipated by many, Wānaka Community Supporting Our Northlake Neighbours Inc (WCSONNI) has filed papers in the High Court, challenging the no-objection clause in the restrictive covenants on their titles. It is a move that could shake property development the length and breadth of New Zealand. No-objection clauses are not new. They have been used my many developers throughout New Zealand and around Wānaka: The Wānaka Sun has obtained copies of the no-objection clauses for Peninsula Bay, Hikuwai, Timsfield, Riverside, West Meadows, Three
Parks and Meadowstone. But it is only in Northlake where they have proven their bite and subsequently caused anger, frustration and in some cases, outrage. Niamh Shaw, WCSONNI president, said, “The result of these general no-objection clauses is that there is currently nobody holding Northlake Investments Limited (NIL) accountable for its actions. Since those directly affected are prohibited from submitting, and the wider community's opinion was roundly disregarded as being ‘unexpert’, the developer has absolute licence to do whatever it wants.”
With the opening of the new New World on the horizon for Wānaka, many locals are wondering (and hoping and praying) whether this means PHOTO: Wānaka Sun prices will go down Fresh Choice, Countdown as more competition and New World, all on offer comes to market. For to Wānaka. many it seems that even the air we breathe down here has a price tag as the cost of living gets further and further out of control. Sally Copland, Countdown’s GM digital said, “Countdown started delivering online shopping to Wānaka in November 2015 and we’re now servicing hundreds of customers a week, with 14 delivery times to choose from. We know from local feedback that accessing our good value prices and the convenience of delivery are both definitely seen as major benefits of Countdown’s online shopping service and as popularity grows we’re always looking to introduce more delivery windows and locations where needed. “In terms of a physical store, we’re always on the lookout for new opportunities to bring Countdown, FreshChoice or SuperValue stores to our customers, and this means we regularly look at a number of sites across the country and Wānaka is no exception.”
Earlier this month the Wānaka Community Supporting Our Northlake Neighbours Incorporated Society’s (WCSONNI) request to the Environmental Legal Assistance Fund to reconsider funding was once again rejected. The group’s goal of challenging the no-objection clause in their Northlake covenants is now dead in the water. “When I went into this, I fully thought justice would be done and the community voice would be heard and we would win,” said chair of WCSONNI, Niamh Shaw. “My youthful optimism has taken a battering. The system is highly flawed,” she said. Shaw conceded that in the case of
PHOTO: Archive
Niamh Shaw has resigned as chair of Wānaka Community Supporting Our Northlake Neighbours Incorporated Society, after the second attempt to secure funding for the High Court case was denied.
the Northlake hotel, it is definitely going ahead – that horse has already bolted. “That developer… there is still land in the special zone with no specified plans so the developer could apply for another resource consent to plonk god only knows what in there.”
12. Hāwea Honeys knock it out of the South Island The Hāwea Honeys, a 13-girl squad of Jump Jam athletes took gold at the South Island championships last weekend – a huge feat for a tiny rural school. “Secretly, I was worried that these girls from a small countryschool would be overshadowed by their big-city ‘sisters’ from Christchurch and Dunedin, but in the end they blew everyone away and were outstanding,” said proud dad, Ross Sinclair. Not only did the girls from PHOTO: Supplied Hāwea Flat School gain first The Hāwea Honeys at the Jump Jam place in the Jump Jam National competition in Christchurch with Brett Competition for the South Island, Fairweather, creator of Jump Jam. team won the Fair Play award. the team also gained another award in technical execution. This This was chosen by the volunteers particular recognition was quite working backstage with the teams, impressive, since they were the only awarded for the teams showing best support and encouragement for ones to get excellence in this field. Because the girls demonstrated other teams. In the end, it was the to be supportive towards each ultimate team effort.” The small contingent of Hāwea other and their competitors, they also took another award for their Flat parents was the most vocal in exemplary conduct. “As a parent, the crowd. “That’s also the Hāwea I was mostly pleased that the way!" said a proud parent.
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Crowds flock to R&A for summer festivities
PHOTO: Wānaka Sun
From left: Simone Reid, Jack Clement, Wilson Mackenzie-White and Tyla Clearwater enjoy the good weather.
PHOTO: Wānaka Sun
Christchurch band, Mako Road plays to a sea of fans at Alpine Arena.
Fun signs direct partygoers to their tents.
PHOTO: Wānaka Sun
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PHOTO: Wānaka Sun
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A smaller stage, ‘Where the Wild Things are’ appeals to those that like a more chilled-back vibe.
Tents offer everything from hot pies to lost property for attendees.
Daniel Borreguero soaks up the sun outside his tent.
PHOTO: Wānaka Sun
PHOTO: Wānaka Sun
PHOTO: Wānaka Sun
PHOTO: Wānaka Sun
Jake McCortney, Emma Olotsson and Emily John from Queenstown relax in the mouth of a large statue.
People relax outside of ‘Glamptopia’ in-between festival sets.
PHOTO: Wānaka Sun
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PHOTO: Wānaka Sun
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Not just horsing around
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Francesca Maria Nespolo
journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz
There are many quiet heroes in the Wānaka district who serve the community without fanfare or fuss. Wānaka Riding for the Disabled is one such group of committed volunteers who have been operating for over ten years, offering a chance for people with disabilities to enjoy the freedom and physical challenge of riding a horse. WRDA operates at Waterfall Equestrian Center on Mt Aspiring Road. The owner of the center, Carol Armstrong, has been volunteering since day one. The group of 19 riders and 16 volunteers including two qualified coaches are part of the organisation, "New Zealand Riding for The Disabled (NZRDA)". The riders, which range in age group from five years old to 75 years old are affected by all sorts of disabilities – and not just physical. RDA caters to people with mental health issues such as depression, to learning and developmental difficulties such as autism and dyspraxia. A potential rider needs to contact the WRDA and complete the application form, which includes a medical certificate before they can be accepted into the program. Sessions are held on Thursdays during the warmer weather of terms one and four. Riding sessions generally take place in the arena, although sometimes the group heads off on a trail ride through the vineyards. Programs vary for every age, teaching riding skills, balance, posture and following instructions. “It’s not just riding ponies, it’s learning skills with a qualified coach,'' said Kay Ross, coordinator for WRDA.
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The riders also enjoy competitions between other participants. “The riders get stronger, gain confidence and increase overall self-esteem, with noticeable improvements in their social skills. There is a therapeutic interaction between the rider and the horse,” said Ross. Armstrong chooses the horses that are suitable for the riders, generally the most sensitive ones as they seem to be way more patient. “Horses have some sort of therapeutic way to help disabled riders. Even those who sometimes have trouble connecting with people can connect through an animal. These people sometimes arrive at riding unhappy or not speaking to anyone, but once they have been on a
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PHOTO: Supplied
RDA group riding with the volunteers at the Waterfall Equestrian.
horse, they can become totally different. They are smiling, they are happy,” said Armstrong. One example was a rider who had been in an accident. “In the beginning, it took five of us to get him on the horse, but now, one of us is enough,” said Armstrong. The progress has been slow but very rewarding. Another had suffered a stroke. She used to ride when she was younger and as part of her therapy, she was recommended to return to horse riding. Her stroke had damaged her ability to speak and dramatically affected her ability to balance herself. “The rider compared it to walking on a sphere, but after the riding sessions this improved
a great deal. There is a lot of research currently underway but nothing yet is conclusive,” she said. These success stories give an incredible motivation for the volunteers to give their time week after week. Volunteers have all sorts of duties: from greeting the rider and getting them ready, to leading horse, while another volunteer walks beside the rider keeping visual or physical contact. “We always welcome new volunteers,” said Ross. The WRDA is a charity organisation and is financed by fundraising, grants and donations, without which they could not continue to operate.
Top tip for tourists: dig a hole Francesca Maria Nespolo
journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz
How to dispose of your own poop is not top on the list of tourist research prior to embarking to New Zealand. But, it’s critical knowledge that councils throughout the country are eager to pass on to visitors. The Department of Conservation (DOC) provides an increased ranger presence over the peak summer season in places that receive a high volume of visitors, to encourage compliance and get important behaviour messages across. In regards to doing your “business”, a ranger warned: “poo in a loo, and be prepared for when there isn’t one. Always go before you start your trip and take the opportunity when you see a loo. There are toilets at every DOC hut and campsite and at some popular car parks. However, there aren't any toilets on most tracks and even when there are, they are usually far apart. If you need to poop but there's no toilet, it's best to hold on until the next loo. However, if you can't wait, use these other options,” said Steve Taylor, DOC’s heritage and visitors director. Option one: dig a hole well away from water and people. It's important to keep poo far from streams, lakes and other people. Follow these simple steps to poop safely: walk at least 50m from water, tracks and campsites; dig down 15-20 cm; and then use as little toilet paper as possible, or else use soft leaves or bark. Don't use bleached toilet paper or wet wipes; and bury your poop and all toilet paper with soil, filling the hole to the top. Option two: carry it to the next long-drop toilet. Use a compostable bag and a poop pot or poop tube to transport your poo to the next longdrop or composting toilet. Do not put the bagged
THURSDAY 02.01.20 - WEDNESDAY 08.01.20
Digging a hole.
PHOTO: DOC website
poo into flush toilets, containment vault toilets, motor-home dump stations, gardens or landfills/ rubbish bins. Place your poop and all toilet paper into a compostable bag and tie it up; then place the bag into the poop pot and close the lid; and at the end, when you get to a toilet, check it's the right type. If bagged poop isn't properly disposed of, it can block toilets and spread diseases. As many DOC huts and campsites get their water supply from streams, it is essential to keep poop away from water sources. “Direct contact with poo or with giardia in water can cause outbreaks of sickness that spread easily when people are in close proximity. That’s no way to spend a holiday!,” concluded Taylor. Spread the spirit of joy over the holiday season, not disease.
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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: Emma Conyngham • editor@thewanakasun.co.nz Journalist: Francesca Maria Nespolo journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz Ollie Blyth • journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz Caroline Moratti • newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz Advertising: Carrie Frew • 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 Classified Advertising Subscriptions:
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Donations kindly received. Please drop them into the Salvation Army Family store or ph 443 5068 to book a pick up. 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 Rags, rags, rags ... little ones, big ones, cotton ones and drop cloths, available from the Wanaka Salvation Army Family Store 443 5068.
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Smoke-free trial well received
PHOTO: Wānaka Sun
Gloria, a former local turned world wanderer, was thrilled at the smoke-free trial.
Francesca Maria Nespolo
journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz
Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) recently implemented a smoke-free trial on the lakefront from Dinosaur Park to the intersection of Dungarvon and Ardmore. This trial includes both cigarettes and vaping and will continue until March 2020. If successful, it will become a bylaw later 10 2020. Several locals and visitors, walking along the shoreline shared their thoughts on the trial with the Wānaka Sun. Local resident Paul and his dog were overjoyed at the idea of seeing less cigarette butts on their walk. “As I am walking along, enjoying our beautiful scenery, it really does take away from the enjoyment when I see a cigarette butt on the beach.” Gloria, a former local turned world wanderer was overjoyed to hear the news. “I am a very
active person and in being so there is nothing worse for me than being outside and being first and second hand to someone causing undeniable harm to themselves and those around them.” She shared that in her travels she especially enjoyed places that had already taken such action. Peter said that he is most excited not to see or smell the trendy vapor cigarettes anymore. “If I was walking my dog, I wouldn’t just let them wander over to someone and start harassing them. Why would someone wish for their smoke to do the same to me?” He greatly appreciated this action and is particularly excited not to see as much “under-researched” nicotine vapor in the air. With the trial still up in the air and the smoke still yet to clear, the general consensus seems that Wānaka residents prefer clean outdoors and healthy lifestyles. How do you feel about the ban? Head to our Facebook page to discuss.
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Art at the Packing Shed Francesca Maria Nespolo
journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz
Art at the Packing Shed, organised by the Central Otago Art Society, is happening again this summer. On January 4-5, 2020, from 10am - 4pm each day the beautiful gardens of The Packing Shed, Boulton Road, Earnsleugh will be filled with art and craft stalls, an exhibition and live entertainment. Even more, the restaurant will be open for market go-ers to purchase delicious food made by the wonderful chefs at The Courthouse Cafe and good coffee. The weekend will comprise of stalls, working artists, exhibition, music. “Artists from throughout the region and further afield have
been invited to set up stalls at the event,” said a spokesperson from the Central Otago Art Society. They added, “Many will be selling their works, which include ceramics, sculpture, paintings, prints and much more. Throughout the weekend several plein air painting demonstrations will happen for interested on-lookers”. An exhibition of around 100 original artworks will be available for sale, works purchased will be available to take away on the day. Exhibitors include well-known Central Otago artist’s Kathi McLean, Nigel Wilson, Melanie Eade, Sheena Lassen as well as many others from the district and further afield. Art at the Packing Shed is free to attend.
When life gets tough...
Phone: 03 443 8000 Top of Helwick St, Wānaka
Retail Manager
We are looking for a superstar Retail Manager Extraordinaire who can demonstrate that they are:
• A talented retailer with strong management experience at any level • Enthusiastic and able to motivate staff to achieve fantastic results • A great leader and a natural coach, with a passion for providing impeccable service and inspiring your team to do the same
• Buzzing to help grow a brand that will benefit customers, staff and yourself along the way
Your responsibilities will include: • Developing and leading your team • Delivery of excellent customer service • Achieving sales targets and other KPI’s • Merchandising to company standards to drive sales • Managing your stock and administration • Interacting with suppliers, reps and other people which contribute to the growth of our business
We want to hear from you, if you: • Have previous retail manager experience preferably within Pharmacy/or health and wellness-based sector (but not essential) • Have knowledge of pharmaceutical or natural health products would be an advantage • Can lead by example • Are looking for the next step in your retail career
If this is you, we want to hear from you today! In return we offer you a friendly and supportive team environment and ongoing training and development ! Please note the pharmacy trades 7 days a week and will require you to be flexible.
SPEAK UP THERE IS A WAY THROUGH Mental Health Support Line 24/7 free call/txt 1737 Tautoko Suicide crisis support line 0508 828 865 In crisis phone the Mental Health Emergency team 0800 467 846 Wanaka Medical Centre 03 443 0710 Aspiring Medical Centre 03 443 0725 Central Lakes Mental Health Services, including Alcohol and Drug Service 03 440 4308 Central Lakes Family Services 03 441 4331 Depression Support Line 0800 111 757 Lifeline 0800 543 354 Youthline 0800 37 66 33 Healthline 0800 611 116 Alcohol & Drug Helpline 0800 787 797
Understanding Depression
For young people: www.thelowdown.co.nz For adults: www.depression.org.nz A list of local counsellors, including subsidized counselling options, can be found on our website www.communitynetworks.co.nz or call (03) 443 7799.
If this is you, we want to hear from you today! Please apply with a CV and covering letter to
34 McDougall Street, Wanaka
Aaron Heath Wānaka Pharmacy, PO Box 45, Wānaka or email: aaron@pembroke.co.nz
OPENING HOURS: 8AM TO 8PM 7 DAYS THE WĀNAKA SUN
PHOTO: Supplied
Central Otago Art Society exhibition.
Your local resource hub for social wellbeing services.
THURSDAY 02.01.20 - WEDNESDAY 08.01.20
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Sun Sport
thewanakasun.co.nz
Red Bull Defiance cancelled without explanation Ollie Blyth
journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz
One of Wānaka’s big multisport events of the 2020 calendar year, Red Bull Defiance, has been cancelled without any explanation, and the competitors enrolled are understandably unsatisfied. The adventure racing event, which was scheduled to take place in the Upper Clutha area on March 28-29, involved kayaking, mountain biking, abseiling, and clay pigeon shooting. With registrations having opened in early July of this year, many athletes had already put in large amounts of time, training, and money which has now gone virtually down the drain. Just before Christmas, the event organisers contacted all competitors to,"regretfully inform you that Red Bull Defiance, due to be held in Wānaka, New Zealand from the 2829th of March, is postponed for 2020." Competitors were instead offered discounted entry into the Red Bull Defiance event in Australia in August next year. Full refunds of registration fees will be given to the athletes, but many have already booked flights and accommodation. On social media, competitor Paul Dawson said that they were really looking forward to the event but now didn’t know
A windy Wānaka wedding for Sam and Harriet Cane.
PHOTO: Bauer Media
All Black ties the knot in Wānaka Ollie Blyth
journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz
No explanation has been given for the abrupt cancellation of the event.
what to do with $1,000 worth of flights, “Personally I’m not very impressed with the level of professionalism displayed by the organisers with their ‘just a quick note’ email and the lack of supporting information either by email, or on [the Red Bull Defiance Facebook page], or on the event website.” Josh Symons agreed, “Really disappointing is a massive understatement.
PHOTO: Wānaka Sun archive
Competitors have poured a lot of time, sweat, and money into preparing, the email was flat out disrespectful. An explanation for why it's been cancelled isn't asking for much.” Red Bull has yet to announce the cancellation publicly on either their website or Facebook page, further confusing competitors as to the reasons for the abrupt decision.
Sam and Harriet Cane celebrated their marriage in Wānaka in December, despite high winds and other complications. The couple exchanged vows in Rippon Hall overlooking a somewhat wild Lake Wānaka during less than ideal weather. If the storm wasn’t enough to deter the pair, a transit issue led to half of the beer for the evening being misplaced. Fortunately, DB Breweries were able to ‘save the day’ by supplying extra alcohol and the weather cleared just before the ceremony. Despite that, the couple said that
they thoroughly enjoyed the event, with kindergarten teacher Harriet Cane telling Woman’s Day, “it's already been an amazing day, today is all about us: our marriage, our relationship.” All Blacks star Sam Cane agreed, “marriage won't change a lot for us, really, but we wanted to celebrate our love and commitment to each other.” The pair met in a Hamilton pub four years ago and have since shared many great adventures overseas together, especially with the All Blacks’ tours around the world. They look forward to more experiences together in the future and enjoyed celebrating their love in Wānaka with 100 of their whānau.
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Wanaka THURSDAY 02.01.20 - WEDNESDAY 08.01.20
THE WĀNAKA SUN