More diagnostic services coming
INSIDE THIS WEEK Views: Page 13 Jobs: Page 15 Sport: Page 16
A pilot project gets underway.
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The Community Hub is opening ...and you’re invitedl.
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thewanakasun.co.nz
THUR 31.10.19 - WED 06.11.19
DELIVERED AND FREE
EDITION 946
Judicial Review filed against QLDC and QAC Emma Conyngham
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
ānaka Stakeholders Group Inc. announced that it has filed judicial review proceedings in the High Court. Their claim is centred around a view that decisions made by Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) “to transfer substantial ownership and control of Wānaka Airport to Queenstown Airport Corporation (QAC), on the grounds that those decisions were both unlawful and unreasonable.” WSG Chair, Michael Ross, said yesterday that the contents of the lease of Wānaka Airport to QAC, which was only disclosed to the community by the Mayor during the last days of the election campaign, are “disturbing”. “The only responsible step we can now take having seen the content of the lease is to proceed with legal action. The “lease” is, to all intents and purposes, a sale to QAC, with QAC having the right to build and operate a substantial jet-capable airport, and QAC clearly intends to do just that. The lease even gives up elements of control to QAC in respect of the future development of Wānaka’s sewerage treatment plant, Project Pure, another strategic asset of the community.” "An intention to transfer such substantial ownership and control, and QAC’s intention to build such a jet capable airport were never disclosed to the community during the so-called ‘consultation’ and in the related Statement of Proposal back in 2016 – 2017. The Wānaka and Upper Clutha communities have never been properly consulted by the Council prior to the disposal to QAC of the community’s 100 percent publicly owned strategic asset. The future development and location of Project Pure was certainly never mentioned.” Mr Ross said that promises of “consultation” after the event by QAC or QLDC are irrelevant to the lack of Continued on page 2
W yesterday
PHOTO: Kirsty Taylor
Nada Piatek holds an Again Again cup which launched on Tuesday in Wānaka.
Farewell single use cups Emma Conyngham
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
gain Again launched on Tuesday in Wānaka and it has the potential to bring a significant shift in habits to the district. Whilst Wānaka is quite advanced in its environmental engagement, there are still plenty of innocent moments when good intentions aren’t met with good organisation and you find yourself wanting a coffee but no cup in hand — it’s in the dishwasher, or rolling around the floor of your car filled with mould. That’s where Again Again steps in. “We provide a fleet of stainless steel cups with silicone lids so that if the customer forgets their own keep cup, they can pay a deposit of $3 and get one of ours. They can then return it to any participating cafe,” said Nada Piatek,
A
founder and managing director of Again Again. “We wanted something that everyone can use, that protects their convenience. Essentially what we do with the $3 deposit is give them a motivation to bring it back. If they don’t, we don’t police that but what we’ve found is that people want to be a part of this and the return rate is higher than we expected.” The current return rate is 60 percent but Nada believes the 40 percent that haven’t been returned aren’t lost or stolen — they are just sitting on someone’s desk waiting to be returned. “The liability is on us if the customer doesn’t bring them back. The cafes are charged $3 for the cups which they on-charge to the customer so they don’t lose. That’s what makes it attractive for cafes because they don’t have to take responsibility for the cups or suffer financial loss if they aren’t returned,” she said. “We manage the risk by launching regionally
so we don’t launch in areas where there isn’t wide community support. We need to give the cups the best opportunity of being returned but we also need communities who are open to behaviour change as that’s the hardest part about this.” Tourists can also participate as the cups can be returned at Christchurch Airport (negotiations with Queenstown Airport are underway). New Zealand throws away 295,000,000 single use cups every year. These cups are used for five minutes and once disposed of, last a lifetime. The plastic lining inside the cardboard cups means they are not recyclable. Participating cafes in Wānaka are: Federal Diner, Alchemy Cafe, Ritual Cafe, Big Fig, Relishes Cafe, Florences Foodstore & Cafe, Monkey Farm, Pembroke Patisserie, and Sailz Lake Hawea.
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Community Hub opening Hobbs elected as ORC chair and you’re invited Francesca Maria Nespolo
journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz
Emma Conyngham
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
The long-awaited Community Hub on McDougall Street is opening this Saturday at 10am and everyone in Wānaka is invited. Gina Treadwell, manager of the Hub said that Saturday’s festivities are an open invitation to everyone – a celebration of ten years of real effort to get the stunning new facility up and running. Treadwell said there will be a Māori blessing/ karakia, then a performance by the MAC kapa haka group, followed by speeches from board chair, Dame Sukhi Turner and Kelvin Wright the former Bishop of Dunedin, before the formal opening by Sir Tim Wallis. The building will then be free for people to have a look around with tea, coffee, baking and a sausage sizzle. “We want the community here to be part of it and part of the opening,” said Treadwell. “It really is a wonderful building and lovely to see it all coming together. The enthusiasm from the community is amazing – everyone who comes in says what a light, vibrant space it is.” So far there are 18 organisations tenanting the office space. Most of the tenants using the new community space are not-for-profits, community services and some councillors. These include Community Networks, Anglican Parish, CLFS, Presbyterian Support Otago, Southern DHB, Volunteering Central, Cancer Society, Oranga Tamariki, Anglican Family Care, REAP, and the Wānaka Foodbank … and more. “We have meeting rooms, office space, and an auditorium available – all with a number of events
PHOTO: The Wānaka Sun
After ten years of planning, fundraising and building, the Wānaka Community Hub is opening this Saturday morning.
already booked. There will be community yoga every Thursday morning in the hall free to the community, and a number of community events coming up soon," said Treadwell. The Wānaka Community Hub is an office space for many community organisations but it is also a place just to meet up for a cup of tea. “We will have revolving art on the walls from our local artists which we hope people will regularly come to view (and purchase). It offers a wonderful function space for events with a full commercial kitchen. You don’t need to have an appointment with anyone to come in; our doors are open to everyone,” Treadwell said. And starting in a few weeks will be Santa’s Grotto, bringing all of Wānaka’s littlies into a space which they will grow up to know as their own. "We are really looking forward to showing this wonderful asset to the community on Saturday."
Incoming members of the Otago Regional Council elected Marian Hobbs, of the Dunedin ward, to serve as chairperson for the new triennium. Hobbs was nominated by Alexa Forbes and Kate Wilson. In Hobbs’ opinion, the council had chosen representatives with the specific intention to cover the diversity of Otago interests. “Otago’s a large region, and the council has quite consciously chosen one representative from Dunedin and another from Dunstan to fill these roles, so that we have both the urban and rural perspectives closely involved,” she said. “I have three young grandchildren. They will be in their forties in 2051. I want their lives to be as safe, and as happy as mine has been. So I owe them focussed work on air quality, water access and quality, biodiversity and a reduction in greenhouse gases. These are areas I worked on as a former Minister for the Environment, but there is so much more to be done.” “The Otago Regional Council sets rules to protect air and water quality. These rules need to be monitored and publicly reported on. I will work with urgency: we have much to do,” she concluded. Councillors also elected Michael Laws, from the Dunstan ward, to the position of deputy chair. For Laws, the appointment fulfilled a public desire for change. “The Dunstan Ward has been frustrated for many years at the glacial
Charlotte Spencer-Bower the ‘perfect woman’ Abby Costen
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
New Zealand’s Perfect Woman Competition returned to Luggate Hotel for its 17th year over Labour Weekend – sponsored by Stonewood Homes. The annual fundraising event for CanLive Cancer Trust centers around a series of serendipitous challenges for its competitors. This year 28-year-old graphic design business founder Charlotte Spencer-Bower topped the podium, taking home the ‘perfect woman’ title, with Lucy Jaine in second and Carisbrook Bowler in third–all of Wānaka. “I lost my partner to aggressive brain tumours at the age of 25 and I am all for anything to raise money for cancer research or to those dealing with cancer,” said SpencerBower. “This was my first year taking part in the competition [...] I had heard about the Perfect Woman competition [...], but never considered entering it until about two weeks prior to the competition this year. My good friend, Kirstin, who is part of the organising gave me a bit of a nudge to get involved and with the help of her, my partner Reece, family and massive support crew, I managed to achieve the big win!” Saturday’s challenges included a 30-second self-introduction, nail painting, a quiz, gumboot throwing, opening a big bottle of beer without an opener, hammering in a nail as fast as possible, and a blind tasting made up of three foods and beers to guess. Event committee member Kirstin Dana said, “The crowd loved some of the facial expressions on the contestants. One of the secret events
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PHOTO: Kirstin Dana
Winner, Charlotte Spencer-Bower of Wānaka carefully running her egg and spoon up steps to a hot plate.
was an egg and spoon race with the contestants then having to cook their eggs–if they still had theirs–and present it to be judged.” “I was inspired to sign up because I thought ‘You know what, I could do a few of those events and I could potentially nail a couple of them’” said Spencer-Bower. “I have a few hours under the belt flying a helicopter and thought, if I could just get through to the top 10, I think I could have an advantage over some of the girls. Unfortunately due to the weather, the helicopter event was cancelled and I thought ‘I’m really going to have to pull rank on these other activities'.” After the weather calmed, participants went back to Lyonfield to complete clay bird shooting, jet boat racing and car racing challenges. The final challenges took place back at Luggate Hotel, and included ‘cutting a man’s hair’, another secret event ‘putting together a kitset sawhorse’–that the competitors then had to auction off themselves–and ‘dressing
to impress’. Spencer-Bower commented, “I made an absolute mare out of my sawhorse with the electric drill being set in reverse when I picked it up and starting with the top of the wood up the wrong way, but despite having one of the worst ones, I did auction it off for the highest price, raising $200 for Canlive.” “The weather conditions didn’t work in our favour and events were postponed due to extreme winds–to the fact us girls couldn’t even open the van door down at Lyonfield– but it was still so much fun.” concluded Spencer-Bower. “I had such a fun weekend and I couldn’t have done it without my partner Reece, family and friends who backed me for two long days!” Dana said, “This event raised over $10,000 for CanLive Cancer Trust, and the Perfect Woman Competition committee are extremely grateful for the ongoing support and generosity of locals to keep this fun event happening.”
THURSDAY 31.10.19 - WEDNESDAY 06.11.19
Marian Hobbs has been elected as chairperson for the new triennium.
PHOTO: Wikipedia
progress of the ORC over a good number of environmental issues – from lake snow to rabbit control to public transport. “Elected reps from Dunstan have gone to Dunedin and met with a stonewall. That will change. Having the deputy chairman resident in Dunstan – and having two energetic, skilled political operators like Alexa Forbes and Gary Kelliher also around the table – will make a huge difference,” he said. Laws said that he had already spoken with Mayors Jim Boult and Tim Cadogan “and pledged to both men that we will be working with them in a much more constructive way over the next three years.”
Judicial Review filed against QLDC and QAC Continued from page 1 original compliance with the prohibitions and consultation obligations of QLDC and QAC under the Local Government Act, and such recent promises of consultation are wholly inadequate to retrieve the situation." “It’s time to challenge QLDC's processes and QAC's effective acquisition of Wānaka Airport. It’s time to ensure that we get proper, lawful and fully informed community consultation. This should happen before anything is done by QLDC to give up full ownership and control of Wānaka Airport. What has been unlawfully done should first be undone.” “It is regrettable that we have to take this step. However, it is also totally necessary in the circumstances, particularly in the light of the lack of any satisfactory responses from both QLDC and QAC to WSG and other community groups over the past year.” Sara Irvine, general manager corporate and community affairs for QAC said, “We understand that WSG is in the course of filing proceedings for judicial review with the High Court. Given that the matter is, or will soon be, before the courts we will not provide comment at this stage.” The WSG stated, “We would not bring judicial review proceedings unless we believed we had good grounds to do so and therefore a significant prospect of succeeding. We have representation from senior barristers including two Queens Counsel with substantial experience in judicial review matters.” Julian Miles QC, Bob Hollyman QC and Brian Latimour are the barristers chosen to represent the group. A Judicial Review is not a cheap process to undertake however the WSG confident their financial strategy is as strong as their legal one. “We have a funding strategy in place which includes contributions from members who are willing and able to contribute. We have already raised significant funds, and we will continue to do so. In recent days we’ve also had significant pledges come in.”
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Pilot underway for increased diagnostic services Emma Conyngham
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
Anyone who has been ill outside of business hours in Wānaka, knows how time-consuming, tiring, expensive and disruptive it can be to get a blood test in the middle of the night. (See editorial on page 13.) Southern Community Laboratories (SCL) currently provides diagnostic services in Wānaka from Monday to Friday during the day, but outside of business hours means residents need to travel to Dunstan Hospital. And regardless of whether the patient is in Wānaka or Clyde, the samples taken need to travel to Dunstan or Dunedin for analysis. However, together with the Southern District Health Board (SDHB), SCL is piloting new point of care services. Training for staff at Wanaka Lakes Health Centre commenced yesterday. “As part of the contract, point of care lab diagnostics will soon be piloted at Wānaka Medical Centre,” said SCL. “The plan is that the service is operational by the end of this year. Point of care’ diagnostics will allow patients to access services such as blood tests, closer to home. Many tests will still need to be processed at Dunedin Hospital and have specialist oversight. This pilot will allow the service to be trialled before a wider roll out across the Southern DHB region.” These new point of care tests may be available outside of normal business hours but SCL would not comment on their availability 24/7. However, they did say, “[availability] will depend on medical centre staffing arrangements but the aim is to do enough locally to be able to triage the patient and reduce the number of transfers.”
PHOTO: supplied
The Queenstown Airport, BECA and Downer NZ team attending the NZ Airports Association Awards. PHOTO: Pixabay
Increased services for blood diagnostics are soon to be piloted in Wānaka.
For blood tests taken during business hours in Wānaka, the pilot project will provide faster results. “Critical results that will help make decisions on the patient’s management can be done locally to better manage patients and their transfers,” they said. SCL said point of care lab diagnostics will save time and money for both the health provider and the patient. Electronic requesting will speed up test request processes and empower clinicians to do more on site. The introduction of point of care testing within the new laboratory partnership will enable more care to happen closer to home. “Clinical staff will be able to order and track tests in real-time, directly from their practice management system. We can spend less time filling out paperwork and chasing results, and more time seeing patients,” says Southern DHB’s medical director Dr Hywel Lloyd.
MacLeod appointed as deputy mayor Emma Conyngham
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
Mayor Jim Boult appointed incumbent Calum MacLeod as Deputy Mayor of Queenstown Lakes District Council. The role is appointed at the Mayor’s discretion rather than an elected position – a result that would have meant Quentin Smith had the role, given he received 710 more votes than MacLeod. MacLeod said, “I am truly humbled and honoured to be appointed Deputy Mayor for a second time. I am looking forward to continuing to serve the good people of the Upper Clutha in this capacity – in fact in any capacity – for a further three years.” In regards to his choice, Boult said… “in the time before I was Mayor, Calum was actually the highest polling councillor and yet he wasn’t Deputy Mayor. There’s nothing new here, it was merely my decision – I thought he would make a good Deputy Mayor. Calum and I worked together last term and after discussion
QAC wins sustainability award Abby Costen
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
Queenstown Airport Corporation (QAC) and Downer were delighted to take the title of Sustainability Initiative of the Year Award at the NZ Airports Association Conference Awards dinner last Thursday in Auckland for its innovative and sustainable approach to resurfacing the airport’s aircraft parking (apron) area. QAC’s general manager of operations and safety Mike Clay said the $7million project’s key strategic goal from the outset was to make a step-change in infrastructure delivery. “Downer’s innovation and collaboration with other Kiwi organisations in pioneering a new generation lower carbon asphalt has proven to be a winner,” said Clay. The project was a milestone in Queenstown Airport’s continuing sustainability journey, with sustainable
alternatives – mixing recycled toner cartridge residue (Toner Pave) and beer bottle sand derived from crushed, recycled beer bottles – used in place of traditional non-renewable aggregates with no impact on the quality of asphalt. This innovative approach demonstrated how sustainable construction methods could help preserve New Zealand’s natural non-renewable resources and provide an important social and sustainability connection to the project. George Leidig, general manager of national surfacing operations and plant for Downer, said, “We are absolutely thrilled that through our partnership with QAC and working on this project together with innovative companies like Close the Loop, we have been recognised by the industry. We know that sustainability is a journey and we hope that by using recycled materials we can deliver innovative solutions on many more projects, while helping to protect New Zealand’s finite natural resources.”
PHOTO: QLDC
Calum MacLeod was appointed deputy mayor of Queenstown Lakes District Council.
with him and Quentin I concluded I would ask Calum to take the role again and both Calum and Quentin are both comfortable with that. Calum and I see eye to eye on lots of matters and presents well on my behalf when he needs to.”
Seven new loos on their way Abby Costen
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) is set to install public toilets in a number of new sites across the district, following $2.39 million received from Central Government’s Tourism Infrastructure Fund (TIF) to go towards a public toilet programme of work. The seven new public toilet sites will be installed in the following areas: Albert Town Road Reserve at the end of Gunn Road, Oban Street Recreation Reserve in Glenorchy, Lake Hayes Recreation Reserve, Kingston School Reserve, SH6 north of Kingston, and Red Bridge in Luggate, replacing temporary toilets already in place. The new sites are in addition to another two public toilets planned for locations yet to be determined on Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) and Department of Conservation (DOC) land. Furthermore, TIF funding received in July 2019
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will deliver replacement toilets at Peter Fraser Park in Lake Hāwea and Bendemeer Bay in Lake Hayes, and a feasibility study for Marine Parade in Queenstown. QLDC general manager of community services, Thunes Cloete said he was excited to see the funding being put to use, noting that the additional toilets would help support both residents and the large number of people visiting the district. “More public toilets across a wider range of the district will help improve cleanliness and protect our environment, reducing cases where people have been identified toileting in significant and sensitive landscape environments,” said Cloete. “We’ve undertaken a review of our existing network of facilities and worked to identify areas in the district lacking appropriate public toilet options, while balancing that with the number of visitors these areas service.” QLDC has one other TIF funding application in place, currently sitting with the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Enterprise (MBIE). THURSDAY 31.10.19 - WEDNESDAY 06.11.19
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THE WÄ€NAKA SUN
thewanakasun.co.nz
IRD hunting out the hidden economy Emma Conyngham
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
Inland Revenue compliance staff have searched several Central Otago businesses and made unannounced visits to others, as part of its current hidden economy campaign targeting the hospitality sector. Cafes, restaurants, bars and takeaways are the focus of the renewed campaign which follows the successful prosecution of five siblings in the Thai House case. Inland Revenue spokesman Richard Philp says the recent visits to Queenstown businesses have confirmed the sector has a high risk of cash sales not being reported and employees being paid under the table. “We certainly observed those behaviours during our visits. Using court issued warrants, Inland Revenue staff seized wage records, computers and other business records. Staff also seized information on employer-provided accommodation, rental properties, Working for Families Tax Credits and payroll matters,” Richard Philp says. “Some of the items we removed includes information on staff paid in cash without PAYE being deducted and documents detailing cash deposits into private bank accounts without being returned for GST
and income tax purposes. “On unannounced visits we seized till records and lists of staff names and work rosters to check against employee details we hold.” Since the operation ended two businesses have indicated they will make voluntary disclosures. The IRD confirmed that no Wānaka businesses were targeted in this campaign. However, they pointed out, “All businesses anywhere could be involved in future if we believe they are under reporting cash sales or paying staff under the table.” Richard Philp says most hospitality businesses are paying the right amount of tax and have good bookkeeping practices but there are still those that don’t. “Knowing the books are all in good order takes a huge weight off a business owner’s shoulders and means they can sleep easy knowing they have good records,” Richard Philp says. “We visited more than 30 taxpayers in Arrowtown, Queenstown, and Frankton to talk about our ‘Sleep Easy’ campaign and left information about record keeping with them. We want to support businesses to keep good records and ensure a level playing field for all.”
LAX to CHC good news for local tourism
PHOTO: American Airlines
Starting in October next year, American Airlines will fly directly from Los Angeles to Christchurch.
Emma Conyngham
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
“The new American Airlines flight service into Christchurch is great news for tourism in South Island,” said James Helmore, Director of Tourism Wānaka. “The direct flight connection means US travellers can get here quicker and easier giving them more time to explore the South Island, which will definitely benefit the Wānaka region. The US is our second largest international market (after Australia) and a highly valued one as US travellers typically spend and do more while they’re here.” American will fly from LA to Christchurch three times per week from October 2020 through March 2021 with a Boeing 787-8. The 787-8 features 20 flagship business seats and 28 premium economy seats, providing additional comfort on the 13-hour flight. Christchurch Airport chief aeronautical and commercial officer Justin Watson says the service will turbocharge the New Zealand tourism industry and the national economy, because statistics show American visitors landing into Christchurch are high-value visitors. "Americans who enter the country
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through Christchurch Airport spend 32 percent more and stay 34 percent longer than if they arrive elsewhere," he says. "When they arrive into Christchurch, American visitors spend 77 percent of their time in the regions of the South Island, compared to the American visitor average of 51 percent. "Based on government data, the seasonal service is forecast to bring in an extra $52 million in visitor spend for New Zealand, with $40 million of that in South Island regions. This is the ideal combination of national value impact and regional economic impact." The Wānaka Sun asked American Airlines why the service is only scheduled for six months and whether it could go permanent if the numbers prove favourable? Their spokesperson replied, “Our new routes are seasonal. Seasonal is where we are seeing demand at the moment, particularly for those from the United States, who travel to New Zealand to experience all it has to offer in the summer season. However, we make ongoing assessments of the performance of our routes and expanding to a year-round service is something we will consider if there is demand going forward.”
Sun News
Have your say on Spatial Plan Emma Conyngham
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
The recent election was one way to have your say on how you want the district to develop, but the spatial plan is another one. Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) is seeking input from the district’s community into the development of a draft Spatial Plan shaping future growth and development for decades to come. QLDC has formed a partnership with central government and Kāi Tahu to deliver a joint spatial plan. It will look at the growth in our towns and townships and explore what this means for our infrastructure – three waters, transport and social infrastructure – and community facilities over the next 30 years and beyond. It is a project QLDC is delivering with its partners to lead the community conversation on growth. Community engagement is at the spatial plan’s core. “We want to know what role you see your town playing in 30 years’ time and what aspects of future development you value most. For example, is it more important to you to have local facilities on your doorstep or centralised services with good transport choices to get to them?” QLDC chief executive Mike Theelen said it was council’s goal to support positive change that benefits the wellbeing of the whole district both now and for generations that follow. “The Queenstown Lakes has been the most rapidly changing district in the country in recent years. The spatial plan is intended to ensure that that growth is managed in a sustainable manner that protects our
unique environment, our communities, as well as our economic and social wellbeing,” said Mr Theelen. “While the pace of change can be daunting, not setting out clear community outcomes and priorities will only compound some of the infrastructure and affordability challenges already faced by the district.” “Our core population projections continue to show a steady increase for the district, and our attractiveness as a visitor destination adds to that. The plan is not about chasing growth or trying to stop it, rather, it is something that takes an intentional view of the future to ensure development is strategic and integrated to create a wellrounded, holistic community across the district,” added Mr Theelen. Minister of Urban Development Phil Twyford said that Queenstown is the jewel in the crown of New Zealand’s tourist economy, but its growth is putting pressure on the environment and the ability of ratepayers to invest in infrastructure. “We need to plan and invest in the kind of growth that will preserve the character of Queenstown and the wider district, and make it liveable for the people who go to work every day and keep the economy humming,” said Minister Phil Twyford. The Informal community engagement starts on November 4 and lasts for four weeks. It will include facilitated community workshops held across the district from November 4 - 27 along with the opportunity to contribute feedback online at letstalk.qldc.govt.nz. For those who don’t have internet access at home, feedback can be provided in QLDC’s Ardmore Street office. Feedback closes 1 December.
King of compost delivers delicious rot Emma Conyngham
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
The ever-popular and hugely knowledgeable Dr Compost – aka Ben Elms from Hawea – is hosting two free gardening workshops at the St John's Rooms in Wanaka, starting next week. Up first for those who are thinking about starting their own veggie garden is Grow Your Own Veggies on Wednesday, November 6. Dr Compost will run through everything you need to get a veggie garden started and to maximise your harvest. From building a raised bed to using mulch to conserve moisture in the soil, Ben's top tips come from over two decades of vegetable gardening in our harsh climate. Find out which vegetables grow best in the Queenstown Lakes district, and when to plant them for the best yields. You'll leave inspired to get growing, and with all the knowledge you need to turn your backyard into a productive local food hub. The second workshop looks at three easy methods: cold (or traditional backyard) composting, Bokashi bins and worm farms. Easy Ways To Compost (November 13) is great for those starting out or wanting to make their composting system work better. Get all the know-how to turn your food and garden waste into nutrients to feed your plants
Jacqui Dean MP for Waitaki If you would like an appointment with Jacqui in Oamaru, Waimate, Geraldine, Fairlie, Tekapo, Ranfurly, Central Otago, Kurow or Twizel please phone our office. Oamaru Office 127 Thames St, Oamaru 9400 03 434 7325 | 0800 MP WAITAKI waitaki.mp@parliament.govt.nz jacquidean.co.nz
PHOTO: Supplied
Dr Compost – aka Ben Elms from Hawea – knows everything there is to know about rotting food.
and soil. Spaces are limited and these workshops are very popular so register for an online ticket at eventbrite.co.nz or through the Dr Compost Facebook page. The Dr Compost home-composting project is funded by Queenstown Lakes District Council and delivered by Wastebusters.
Aspiring Medical would love to welcome you to your new health care family. We offer affordable visits for CSC holders, free visits for under 14’s and free nurse consults on enrolments. Make the Right Choice
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Cam Dykes for Central Lakes Trust
PHOTO: Supplied
The 1995 Wānaka flood highlights the necessity of neighbours knowing and helping each other.
• New Thinking • Fresh Ideas
A discussion over earthquakes to engage Francesca Maria Nespolo
camforcentrallakestrust Authorised by Cam Dykes, O’Neill Lane, Alexandra
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LINK Connection Cafe is focussing on building community resilience, both in the case of natural disasters and for communal neighbourly connection. In case of emergency, local connection is critical. The 2018 QLDC Quality of Life survey revealed that many in the Upper Clutha feel unprepared for a civil defence emergency. The statistics are
surprising – an average of 40 percent of Upper Clutha residents said they were unprepared for a civil defence emergency:. LINK has already encouraged neighbourhood connection with ‘Have a Cuppa’ tea bags on Neighbours Day in March, an initiative designed to help neighbours get to know each other. Organisers of the connection cafe, Sam Orchard and Cissy Rock will share tips on community connection. Space will be given to local community associations, who are
becoming more active as Wānaka gets bigger, through sharing success stories of action and advocacy in their neighbourhoods. A mix of information-sharing and informal networking, LINK Connection Cafes are a chance to meet others, catch up on news, and get advice on turning advice into action. “From Earthquakes to Engagement: Building Community Resilience”, will be held on Monday November 11 at 7.30-9pm, at the Wānaka Community Hub.
Airport parking price hikes will hit Wānaka residents Francesca Maria Nespolo
journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz
From November 1, there will be changes to pricing at Queenstown Airport’s terminal and Park and Ride car parking offerings. Natalie Scott, ground transport manager at Queenstown Airport, commented, “The changes differ across length of stay and car park chosen based on convenience to terminal and customer usage patterns. For example, our one- and two-day terminal parking rates have not increased at all. For longer-term parking there are some changes and the weekly rate at the terminal car park is increasing. However, customers can choose to use the Park and Ride and will pay $80 for one week which includes complimentary shuttle transfers to and from the terminal”. Queenstown Airport has justified the cost increase due to technology investment. “We have made significant investments into our car
PHOTO: Wanaka App
Park and Ride.
parking offerings over the last three years and there is a continuous stream of new tech being released in the coming years. As well as investing in the Park and Ride facility, we’ve also launched an introductory offer for Park and Ride, this is the Online Advance Saver rate for bookings made seven days before arrival time.” Some would still criticise the price increase but Scott replied, “We have benchmarked
our parking rates and our rates fall within the average range of other New Zealand airports”. However, Scott assured, with technology solutions now in place, it is easier to have a better idea of customer occupancy levels and usage, so the Queenstown Airport can adjust pricing to ensure space is available across the car park offering, maximising the Park and Ride facility spaces during busy times.
Tourist transport under the lens by NZTA Francesca Maria Nespolo
journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz
NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) is seeking to learn more about how international visitors experience New Zealand’s transport system through a research project currently underway. Over the next few months, researchers will be out and about interviewing international visitors in New Zealand’s major tourism hot spots. Two prior stages of research have already been completed. The first stage being a segmentation of visitor data from MBIE’s International Visitor Survey based on common patterns of behaviour, such as how people travelled–bus, car, bicycle, plane, railcar etcetera–how far they travelled, and how long they stayed. And the second stage being the gathering of additional information based on Paymark data.
PHOTO: Pixabay
Paymark data is collected any time an international visitor uses their credit card with a Paymark vendor. Mapping these transactions helps identify common journeys visitors are taking. The transport agency’s director of regional relationships for the South Island, Jim Harland said that since 2015, the NZTA has been the lead agency in a collaborative project with government and private sector agencies to ensure
THURSDAY 31.10.19 - WEDNESDAY 06.11.19
all visitors have a safe and enjoyable holiday experience, with specific safety initiatives rolled out on the West Coast, Southland and Otago. “The summer season visiting driver education campaign gets underway this month. Having been involved in this over the last few years, now the NZTA is keen to get a better understanding of international visitors’ actual experiences of our transport system.” said Harland. “The data we’re gathering will provide insight into the needs, motivations and behaviour of international visitors as they use the land transport system in New Zealand”. The final research report is expected to be available in the first half of 2020. The findings will help NZTA, other government agencies, councils and other providers identify opportunities to improve the transport system from an international visitor perspective.
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A tourist attraction based on renewable energy Francesca Maria Nespolo
journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz
New Zealand’s first renewable energy-focused hot tub and electric bike cruise destination has been established in Wānaka. LandEscape Wānaka is set amongst some of the country’s most spectacular scenery on a working farm on Camp Hill Road between Lakes Wānaka and Hāwea. The attraction will include 15km of gentle and scenic purpose-built cycle trails, eight natural-style outdoor hot tubs and six stargazing glasshouses. The Deaton family have owned the property since 1991, but Rik Deaton LandEscape’s owner, has wondered for a long time about the best way to share it with the broader community and visitors to the Wānaka area. “The genesis of the idea came to us in the mid 90’s when Juliet and I were on a prolonged motorhome trip in Europe (as in three years touring) and became interested in renewable energy almost accidentally. We ended up structuring the rest of our trip around visiting as many interesting demonstration sites and trade shows as we could find in those early days of the commercialisation of renewables and there was a lot to see even then,” said Deaton. He added, “The hot tub operation out on the farm will allow us to demonstrate some very interesting thermal energy systems and, within a few years, eliminate energy as a cost centre of the business altogether. We intend to create a whole-of-site combined heat and power smart micro-grid to allow us to become energy independent on site but remain grid-tied and a net electricity exporter.” Deaton’s primary focus will always be to provide a really wonderful visitor experience, but the energy concepts will be lurking in the background as an added educational dimension to the offering, demonstrating their intention to do much in their own small way. LandEscape Wānaka will include 15km of gentle and scenic purpose-built cycle trails, eight natural-style outdoor hot tubs and six stargazing glasshouses. Further development, including more hot tubs, accommodation, a restaurant and bar, is planned for the future.
Aspiring local entrepreneurs give tipis a chance Abby Costen
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
Deaton’s family in one of the hot tubes.
PHOTO: LandEscape Wanaka
The e-bikes will also be available for hire anywhere in Wānaka and can be rented from the LandEscape booking office in downtown Wānaka. “As we all know, Wānaka has no public transport system and we intend to use our e-bike fleet to bridge that gap. E-bikes are the short to medium distance component of the electric vehicle revolution, and a revolution it is. For certain we will witness the end of the ICE – the internal combustion engine – within a decade and all other fossil fuel-based energy systems will shortly follow,” shared Deaton. The first stage of LandEscape will be complete towards the end of November this year and will comprise four hot tubs each boasting spectacular mountain and valley vistas. Another four tubs will be added over subsequent months. Guests are currently able to book one of two hot tubs already commissioned and in operation, located close to the LandEscape Ride Centre.
Lake Wānaka Tourism launches Harvest campaign Abby Costen
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
Lake Wānaka Tourism (LWT) has released ‘Harvest Wānaka’, an episodic-style video series showcasing Wānaka’s world-class food and wine story. The Harvest series follows three teams from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane on a three-day journey of food and wine exploration in the Wānaka region. A selection of Australasia’s hottest chefs and sommeliers were brought over by LWT and paired with leading local chefs–James Stapley of Kika, Mario Rodrigues of Bistro Gentil and Eliot Thomas of Morsel, Honest Food Co.–as their guides. Each day a new discovery, from the epic settings of Wānaka’s vineyards, foraging, farms and gardens, the quality produce, to the undeniable passion of the producers behind the scenes. Culminating in a very special dining experience for guests of the series sponsor Mercedes-Benz, at Whare Kea Lodge. Sydney-based sommelier, and wine consultant Samantha Payne was blown away by the experience. Payne said, “We spent three of the most incredible days foraging, exploring, meeting people, uncovering the very best this region has to offer. Wānaka is so magical and will always hold a special place in my heart.” Taking the creative lead and producing this series inhouse, LWT’s marketing team worked alongside awardwinning creative producer AJ Johnson. With credits that include Survivor, Love Island and
THE WĀNAKA SUN
PHOTO: supplied
Gather and Gold.
A local couple has launched a business in Wānaka – largely funded by selling their property in France–taking on financial risks in the hope of profit. Gather and Gold is a Sami-inspired giant tipi event hire company, which predominantly accommodates to weddings and events in Wānaka and Queenstown. The business is owned and run by Chris and Sarah Fecher, and was inspired by the Nordic tipis that housed the pair’s wedding reception ten years ago. Chris said, “We love a good road trip so we cover most of the South Island, we love this area of course but happy for a roady up to Christchurch or down to Dunedin. We went to Kaikoura last summer for a wedding and had such a fun time, we took the crew out fishing and had a big cook up afterwards. The majority of our business in the Queenstown Lakes area and we love working with all the fabulous local suppliers.” Prior to starting up Gather and Gold, the couple had been living back to back winters between Chamonix in France and Wānaka for many years. “As far as risks go we are the same as any business, I’m a firm believer that people can copy your product, style, branding but they can’t copy you! So just do you! [...] Every business has its costs and ours is no different, our staffing costs are quite high but then we pay fairly,” said Chris. “We're quite seasonal like many, our season is just about to kick off and run through to April, the winter is long and dark on our cash flow but then we get to play in the mountains so not all bad. I supplement our income by ski guiding and ski patrolling. Winter is also a good time to catch up on systems, branding and all the stuff we don’t get the chance to work on over the summer because we’re so busy. We had a big tax year this winter with low cash flow, it’s a tricky balance and a big deal for many new businesses.” Chris continued, “We started Gather and
Gold as a family venture and it has a massive effect of family life and we continually strive for balance. We have the support of a fantastic CFO and financial team at ‘Balanced', we have events legend Liane helping us with all our systems and admin and a solid team of build crew some of which have been with us from the start! They say it takes a village to raise a child, it definitely takes a village to raise a business. You know who you are, big love to the tipi crew!” “The pay off for all the blood sweat and tears is we might get to own our own house one day, we sold a small apartment we owned in France which was our home to fund Gather and Gold, I guess it could have been a deposit on a house here but we believed in our dream to bring tipis to this area we just had to do it,” continued Chris. “Owning your own business is a mixed blessing, it’s stressful, it never stops but we both enjoy the creative side so much it keeps us interested and stimulated enough to keep things moving forward. The interaction with our clients is just gold, we love being part of the joyful and interesting events both wedding and corporate. Our dream was always to fly tipis in to some remote backcountry location and we’ve done it twice now so dreams do come true! We feel very lucky after spending so many years trying to make a living in Wanaka work. It’s not easy!” General manager of Lake Wānaka Tourism (LWT), James Helmore said, “LWT provides resources to businesses and potential owners considering a future in the tourism industry, and also runs a series of workshops to help existing member businesses build a deeper understanding of the industry. In addition there are a range of national organisations like Tourism New Zealand, Tourism Industry Aotearoa and Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment that are a great source of information for any business.” Gather and Gold will be supplying tipis to multiple weddings and corporate events this summer, including a BlackSeeds event at Cargo Brewery and a big wedding featuring all six tipis.
PHOTO: Lake Wānaka Tourism
A still preview of Lake Wānaka Tourism’s Harvest campaign.
The Voice, AJ brought 15 years of commercial experience to the project, as well as an intimate knowledge and true passion for the Wānaka region. Cadre was brought on to film and manage post-production, with Mirrors Audio responsible for the bespoke soundtrack. James Helmore LWT General Manager said, designed to grow visitation in autumn, this style of content takes a more thoughtful, editorial approach to storytelling. “In a fast–paced, always-on world, we are continuously looking at ways to cut through the clutter in a crowded content space, and from our research we know that audiences, and in particular ’foodie’ audiences are looking for a real connection.” said Helmore. “With ‘Harvest’ we wanted to not only inspire and inform, but to also entertain and we are very pleased with the outcome.”
Wanaka Skin Cancer Clinic Comprehensive skin checks now available with one of our accredited GPs trained in skin cancer management.
THURSDAY 31.10.19 - WEDNESDAY 06.11.19
Remember to slip, slop, slap and wrap. 23 Cardrona Valley Road, Wanaka
www.WanakaMedical.co.nz
Wanaka Medical - Leading the Way
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Safer Journeys launches visiting drivers project Become a great coach
with Sports Central
Abby Costen
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
Safer Journeys has recently launched its summer campaign called the Visiting Drivers Project. “The purpose of this project is to improve road safety for, and of, visiting drivers, while maintaining New Zealand’s reputation as an attractive and safe tourist destination. The project has an on-the-ground focus in Otago, Southland and the West Coast but many of the initiatives also benefit all visitors to New Zealand and other road users,” said Safer Journeys. “Generally regions with high tourist numbers and smaller local populations have a greater proportion of crashes involving overseas drivers.” Data from the Ministry of Transport indicates that Westland, Queenstown Lakes and Southland have overseas drivers involved in between 23–43 percent of all crashes. Between 2013 and 2017, the six most frequently listed nationalities of drivers involved in fatal and injury crashes in New Zealand were (in order from most to least): China (385), Australia (359), Germany (322), India (269), UK (237) and the USA (230). Combined, these six countries contribute over half (57 percent) of the overseas drivers
PHOTO: supplied
Signage installed as part of the Visiting Drivers Project.
in crashes. However, nearly three-quarters (71 percent) of total visitors to New Zealand come from these countries. Over these five years (2013-17), visitor numbers from China increased by 83 percent, Australia by 21 percent, Germany by 50 percent, India by 98 percent, UK by 30 percent and the USA by 64 percent. Media manager Frances Adank of NZ Transport Agency said, “There is an array of material appearing on the back of coaches and trucks, at digital screens in petrol stations, in public toilets, on roadside billboards and at key airports for international arrivals to help keep visitors and all road users safe on our highways and local roads.”
Wānaka Primary reely helps makes a difference Abby Costen
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
Last Friday Wānaka Primary received a visit from the Minister for Conservation, Eugenie Sage, who arrived in response to an invitation from room nine in pod three. The school also gained an Enviroschools bronze award. Pod three teacher, Kylie Brown, said, “Eugenie Sage (Minister of Conservation) was welcomed with a powhiri to Wānaka Primary School on Friday 25 October to meet with children from Pod three who had written letters voicing their concerns about our native longfin eels.” “She was very impressed with how passionate pod three children were about saving the eels and how they could make a difference in the community. Eugenie said she will go back and look at a law to stop fishing for eels and how we can support the movement over the dams. She was also interested that pod three are working with the council and DOC to see if they can make a sign to inform the public about the longfin eels at the jetty.” Pod Three–which is made up of year one and two children–wrote letters to the minister conveying concerns about their local longfin eels, which developed from their investigation of Bullock Creek habitat in Wānaka as part of their deep learning enquiry. Longfin eels can live up to 100 years. Near the end of
PHOTO: Kylie Brown
Minister Eugenie Sage with children from pod three at Wānaka Primary School.
their life they migrate down the Clutha River and travel all the way to deep ocean trenches near Tonga to spawn and then die. The return journey for the young, through the ocean currents and back up the Clutha River, is fraught with dangers and obstacles. They cannot get over the Clutha and Roxburgh dams without intervention. Contact Energy presently catch the elvers (young eels) and transport them over the dams to help maintain the migratory patterns of native fish. The migrating eels have an even slimmer chance of leaving as they need to be caught in a net and lifted over the dam to even have a chance. This has only started happening very recently and only a few make it.
Grow Well | Whaiora Facilitated Community Workshops Let’s talk about where and how we live over a long term period and what this means for our infrastructure and community facilities in the next 30 years and beyond.
PHOTO: Pixabay
Abby Costen
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
Sport Central has organised a range of sport development opportunities to take place at Wānaka Recreation Centre in the run up to Christmas to support coaches, groups and organisations in the Wānaka area. Sport development opportunities include ‘Getting Started in Coaching’, ‘Leadership in Sport’ and ‘Coaches Club: Teaching a skill’, ‘Getting Started in Coaching’ is scheduled to run on November 6 from 7.30pm to 8.45pm, and will be presented by coach Grant Milne of Sport Otago. Milne will cover topics including why people participate in sport, game sense approach, planning, safety, coaching practical and sideline behavior. “Getting Started in Coaching’ is full of practical tips; why people play sport, planning, safety, keeping it positive. The last 30 minutes of this course will be practical hands-on coaching. Touch and athletics are two codes that come to mind immediately but the course is generic and so is applicable to all sporting codes. Teachers and secondary school students that are asked to coach are two other groups that would benefit from this course.” ‘Leadership in Sport’ is scheduled to run on November 13 and 20, and December 4 and 11, from 7- 9pm. Carruthers said, “Attendees as a group work through a leadership framework, resources include
workbooks, ideas, inspiration and question, along with practical ideas and suggestions that help participants develop their leadership capability. This course is a self-lead interactive, journey of discovery.” ‘Coaches club: teaching a skill’ is scheduled to run on November 21 from 7-8.30pm, and will be presented by head coach of Wānaka Swim Club, Cameron Stanley. In this session Stanley will focus on how to teach sport skills effectively, drawing from his own experience as both a sport and music coach. Participants can expect a presentation followed by a practical observation session at the Wānaka Pool. Carruthers said, “Coaches club is open to anyone. [...] As a swimmer, [Cameron] represented New Zealand at the World Youth Games and Oceania Championships. As a coach Cameron has a vast amount of experience including eight years coaching at the most successful club in New Zealand, North Shore and stints with the New Zealand Youth Team. Both his parents were highly rated rowing coaches which gives Cameron a different perspective on coaching. His other great love is playing the violin. In this session, Cameron explores the similarities in teaching a skill, be it on a violin or swimming. The last part of this session will be practical where Cameron demonstrates the teaching of a skill”. All coach training sessions are free. Register your interest at least three days prior by emailing Tiny Carruthers of Sports Central on tiny@sportotago.co.nz.
Help develop a spatial plan for the Queenstown Lakes District.
W naka
H wea
Luggate
Want to find out more?
Monday 4 November 6.30pm-8.30pm Lake Wānaka Centre
Monday 25 November 6.30pm-8.30pm Lake Hawea Community Centre
Wednesday 27 November 6.30pm-8.30pm Wanaka Airport
About what a spatial plan is, why we need one and what it delivers? Visit Council offices or head to letstalk.qldc.govt.nz for full details and a feedback form.
Registration essential. Go to www.eventfinda.co.nz or call the Council. Feedback closes Sunday 1 December. PAGE 8
THURSDAY 31.10.19 - WEDNESDAY 06.11.19
THE WĀNAKA SUN
thewanakasun.co.nz
Sun what’s on
Take on the 21-day nutrition challenge Abby Costen
Eat for a good cause
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
Queenstown Lake District Council (QLDC) is running a 21-day nutrition challenge, from November 4-24, to help people conquer their healthy-eating goals in time for summer. For $1 per day, participants will receive a comprehensive recipe guide as well as ongoing support and advice. An introductory seminar is scheduled to take place on October 30 at Wānaka Recreation Centre. Spaces are limited. Early entrants may receive a free goodie bag. Find out more and sign up at sportsrec.qldc.govt.nz.
Ollie Blyth
journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz
PHOTO: Pixabay
Nadia helps Wānaka to eat their veges ten Kiwis now identifying themselves as vegetarian or vegan. “All around the world, people are looking to eat more vegetable-based meals, and I’ve had that feedback Nadia Lim is on her way to Wānaka next week to launch from A LOT of Kiwis, so I figured it was time to do a her new book, Vegful. Released in time for Christmas, vegetable cookbook. I’m not vegetarian myself, however Vegful contains all vegetarian and vegan my family and I do love our vegetarian and recipes. vegan meals. Vegful is the perfect book for “I’ve created this book for vegetarians, anyone who wants to incorporate more vegans and omnivores alike. Whichever vegetables and meat-free meals into their way we choose to eat, there’s no doubt diet” that eating more vegetables would do all With the likes of rustic vegetable pizza of us good. So instead of a vegetarian/ pie; kumara, chickpea and mushroom vegan cookbook, I’d more accurately burgers; caramelised onion and beetroot describe it as a vegetable cookbook. Or, a tart; tacos with walnut and almond very ‘vegful’ cookbook! One to celebrate chilli and guacamole; kumara focaccia; beautiful, colourful, bountiful vegetables” parsnip, pear, ginger and walnut cake; and Nadia says. pumpkin and cinnamon donuts, the list of PHOTO: The Wānaka Sun In association with Paper Plus, Nadia mouth-watering recipes is endless. “These Just in time for Christmas, will be in Wānaka on November 4 with an Nadia Lim has released a recipes will satisfy and surprise even the evening event at the new Wanaka Pavilion vegetarian cookbook and is on most dedicated carnivores.” her way to Wānaka next week. (Wanaka Rugby Club). Monday 4 November, 6pm. Tickets “I can’t wait to road trip around the include a complimentary drink on arrival country and visit some of our smaller towns. I love and tastings from Nadia's new book, and are available meeting people at my events and signings, Kiwis have from Paper Plus Wānaka. always been so warm and welcoming” The Wānaka Sun has a free copy of Vegful to giveaway. Go Plant-based eating is rising in popularity, with one in to our Facebook page to enter.
Emma Conyngham
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
Impressions Behind the Gate house tour Abby Costen
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
The countdown is on for Holy Family Catholic School’s Wānaka house tour fundraiser, Impressions Behind the Gate, with just a few days left to get tickets. The tour features an array of homes owned by locals who will open their doors for the public to view this Saturday. The number of homes remains a secret but there will be a variety of properties ranging from large houses with impressive gardens, to an environmentally focused passive house. The house tour is another major Friends of the School (FOTS) fundraiser for Holy Family Catholic School, raising money for school kapa haka uniforms. The school will also donate $15 from every ticket sold to Ronald McDonald House.
“Ticket sales have gone really well over the past few weeks but it would be great to sell a few more to make a difference for the school and for Ronald McDonald House. Every little bit counts, and we’d love the Wānaka community to take part in this really popular event,” said teacher and event organiser Phillipa Wilson. At each house, local shops like Mrs Robinson, Gifted Design Store and The Workroom Interior Design & Florist will be setting up stalls with gifts and homewares available for purchase. The tour ends at the Maude Wines tasting room on Golf Course Road where sculptures will be exhibited. The tour starts at Holy Family Catholic Church on Aubrey Road on November 2 at 10am. Tickets can be purchased from the Holy Family Catholic School or Gifted Design Store in Wānaka. Alternatively, tickets can be purchased at the door on the day until 12pm.
World Sandwich Day is tomorrow (Friday November 1), and to celebrate Subway Wānaka and Cromwell are partnering with KiwiHarvest to support households with little access to food. “We invite everyone in the local Wānaka community to come and visit us at Subway Cromwell and Subway Wānaka on Friday, November 1 for lunch or dinner, where you can buy a sub, salad, or wrap, get one free and Subway will donate a meal to someone in need,” said Subway New Zealand country director Chris Churchmichael. Currently in New Zealand, roughly 40 percent of New Zealanders face food insecurity, with one in five Kiwi kids living without access to enough nutrition. The Wānaka community is invited to join Subway in their biggest fundraiser ever to reduce these shocking statistics. This is the third year that Subway have partnered with the leading food relief organisation, KiwiHarvest, to fundraise for the cause. KiwiHarvest are a nationwide charity devoted to saving food destined to go to landfill, and giving it to those in need.
PHOTO: Supplied
Buy a sandwich, get one free, and one donated to charity this Friday at Subway Wānaka.
CEO of KiwiHarvest, Gavin Findlay, is thrilled to be able to partner with Subway once more, “last year’s efforts helped raise funds that supported hundreds of thousands of meals for New Zealanders in need and since 2012, KiwiHarvest has rescued over 3.1 million kgs of good nutritious food, the equivalent of 8.8 million meals. World Sandwich Day and the support from Subway and its customers is crucial for us as we try to sustain hungry and vulnerable Kiwis across the country,” he said. Customers will also have the ability to witness the change created by visiting subwaylivefeed.co.nz, where all meals donated to KiwiHarvest will be tracked and counted.
The Vizzutti virtuosos: one night only Ollie Blyth
journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz
The Wānaka Concert Society are very pleased to announce that they will be hosting one of the finest trumpet players in the world and his accompanist next week for one concert only. World class musicians Allen and Laura Vizzutti will be performing at the Lake Wānaka Centre on Wednesday November 6 at 7:30pm for an evening of classical and light jazz. Along with his dazzling technique and incredible range, Allen is equally at home in both the jazz and classical idioms. His wideranging jazz credentials include touring with the legendary jazz pianist Chick Corea and playing lead trumpet with the Woody Herman Orchestra. In the classical world he has soloed with symphony orchestras throughout the world having performed in 60 countries and every state in the USA. Allen has played on over 150 motion picture soundtracks and recorded with
countless artists from Frank Sinatra and Barbara Streisand to Neil Diamond and Prince. The London Symphony, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Budapest Radio Orchestra and the Royal Philharmonic of London, and have premiered Allen’s compositions along with the renowned Summit Brass and other ensembles. Laura Vizzutti will accompany Allen on the piano. She is a renowned artist in her own right and has performed throughout Japan, New Zealand, Europe, Canada, and the United States. She began studying piano at the age of 4 and was a young artist competition winner at the age of 14. Both are graduates of the famed Eastman School of Music and have toured the world playing concerts together. Listeners will find that Allen and Laura Vizzutti are accessible artists with warm personalities who love to play music that is both virtuosic and lovely to hear. Lake Wānaka Centre on Wednesday November 6 at 7:30pm.
Allen & Laura Vizzutti
One of the world’s top trumpet players accompanied by pianist Laura Vizzutti
Garage sale for Hāwea Playgroup Abby Costen
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
This Sunday Queenstown Lakes District Council is running its 10th annual garage sale at Hāwea Flat Hall on Camphill Road to raise money for Hāwea Playgroup. Visitors can expect a range of stalls, live music from Wānaka Ukeleles and Cheesewood, karaoke, face painting, bubble shows and The Foxy Photo Booth, as well as a pop-up café offering homemade cakes, scones and more. The event will run from 11am to 3pm.
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Beautiful … lyrical …stunning …stupefying… Syracuse Post Standard Wednesday, 6 November, 7.30pm - Lake Wanaka Centre Cash sales from Gifted Design Store, 19 Helwick Street, Wanaka, or online at eventfinda.co.nz. Cash door sales from 6.30 pm. WCS subscribers $30; non-subscribers $35; children/students free. Presented by Wanaka Concert Society. Supported by QLDC. PHOTO: Pixabay
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Fish and Game appeal Environment Court decision on trout values Abby Costen
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
Last Tuesday Otago Fish & Game Council lodged an appeal relating to an Environment Court decision. The government-funded council represents the interests of anglers and game bird hunters in the Otago region, and is seeking clarification over what it believes to be “errors of law relating to the protection of the habitat of trout and salmon in the recent Environment Court ruling on the Lindis River minimum flow and primary allocation limit.” Chief executive of Otago Fish & Game Council, Ian Hadland, said they are contesting what the council
believe to be several errors of law, including that the Environment Court applied the wrong legal tests when giving particular regard to the value of trout and salmonids under the Resource Management Act 1991. Fish & Game Councils are established under the Conservation Act with a statutory role and exist to maintain and enhance the habitats of trout and salmon and the populations of trout and salmon living in those habitats. Hadland added, “This appeal is focused primarily on seeking clarity on aspects of the judgment that have potential for national application, not simply for the Lindis River context”. No further comment will be made now that the matter is before the High Court.
GREBE DIARY 1 October 31, 2019
Vote now on Bird of the Year It’s almost exactly a year since I wrote my first diary for the 2018-19 season and by then we had already hatched the first chicks on August 29, the second lot on October 7 and clutch three on October 18. Our first clutch (three eggs) will hatch on nest five on or about Nov 1 and those on nest eight on November 15. Which is all by way of saying the season is very late this year and that I am not expecting great things. The lake reached a significant high of 278.5m in the first week of June which was followed by a steady decline by almost two metres by the beginning of October taking it just 49cm over its alltime low in 60 years of 276.22m recorded in September 1959. Such a prolonged low lake level plays havoc with the food chain and the inshore ecosystems that produce so much of the food required for the fishery and in turn for the grebes. I will take a short break from grebes to explain the illustration that supports this diary note. It is Hoiho, the yellow-eyed penguin (Megadyptes Antipodes, ‘big diver’ from the Antipodes). It’s the rarest of the world’s penguins, probably the third largest, has some of the most unusual behaviour for a penguin species, has a black belt in karate by way of its flippers. It has sharp hooked beak and claws to match. I have the scars to prove it! I first started studying this bird over 40 years ago. A couple of years into my study
PHOTO: Lasse Holst Hansen
Hoiho, the yellow-eyed penguin, is John Darby’s nomination for Forest and Bird’s, Bird of the Year.
I predicted that we would lose this species from the mainland if we did nothing. Just a few weeks ago, another scientist gave it maybe 20, more likely ten years. So it’s up there right now because each year Forest and Bird run an annual competition for the “Bird of the Year”. Google that and it will tell you how to go about putting this species well and truly on the conservation map. And it should be up there, if for no more reason that the mainland population is mostly found in Otago and if you get everyone you know in Otago to vote for it, we must surely win. Voting opened on October 28 for two weeks only. I promise that next year we will go for having grebes up there. – By John Darby
Rockburn Pinot Noir takes champion award Abby Costen
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
*Available for a limited time only or while stocks last. In one transaction. One gift per customer. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Excludes clearance lines and gift sets. ^Valued by Revlon.
Phone: 03 443 8000 Top of Helwick Street, Wanaka OPENING HOURS: 8AM TO 7PM 7 DAYS PAGE 10
Rockburn Pinot Noir 2017 has been awarded two gold medals and two trophies at the 2019 New Zealand International Wine Show including the coveted Champion Wine of the Show title. Since its inception in 2005, the New Zealand International Wine Show has been the largest international wine judging competition in the country (as opposed to the NZ Wine Awards which celebrates NZ producers only). After receiving the trophy for ‘Champion Pinot Noir’, Rockburn then went on to receive the evening’s top award – the trophy for ‘Champion Wine of the Show’. This popular wine has a legacy of show success dating from its 2006 vintage and is said to have a reputation as one of Central Otago’s most consistent quality pinot noirs. Reflecting on this success, winemaker Malcolm Rees-Francis commented, “We’re very pleased with the performance of the 2017 Rockburn Pinot Noir, the vintage was uniquely challenging with a protracted flowering and huge variability within the grape clusters at vintage. The wine certainly has an interesting story to tell!” The wine is crafted from fruit sourced from Rockburn’s two vineyards, which are both believed to bring unique characteristics to the wine. The vineyards are wellestablished within the region with some plantings dating back to the early 1990s. Generally available in New Zealand,
THURSDAY 31.10.19 - WEDNESDAY 06.11.19
PHOTO: supplied
Winemaker Malcolm Rees-Francis with his 2019 New Zealand International Wine Show awards.
Rockburn Pinot Noir is also exported to the industry’s key export markets. “With 36 gold medals awarded in the pinot noir class this year, Rockburn was in the company of many great producers and we are delighted to have received the Champion Pinot Noir trophy. Twenty one of the pinot noir gold medals were awarded to Central Otago wines, which continues to cement this region as a consistent producer of New Zealand’s premier pinot noir” said Rockburn general manager Rebecca Poynter. “Furthermore to then be awarded Champion Wine of the Show is a wonderful testament to Rockburn’s winemaking and viticulture and the unrelenting commitment to premium quality.” A further wine from the Rockburn stable, The Art pinot noir 2016 also received a gold medal on the night. This is a single vineyard wine from a premium site in Bannockburn and produced in limited quantities.
THE WĀNAKA SUN
Sun Farming
thewanakasun.co.nz
A monthly column by Kim Reilly, Federated Farmers South Island, Regional Policy Manager.
An about turn or strategic move on ETS?
Diversification and future proofing key What will farming look like in 20 years’ time? To a large degree, that depends on the industry’s ability to turn challenges into opportunities’. It also means making sure the rules of today don’t prevent the changes needed tomorrow. New Zealand has faced a number of defining moments in its history – through European settlement, wars, subsidy removals, natural disasters and more. Early New Zealand farmers had it hard, but they adapted, and ultimately laid the groundwork for New Zealand to become the thriving country it is today. Massive innovation came about in those early decades, fundamentally changing the face of farming. During the World Wars, New Zealand changed again, with farmers helping to get the country through those darkest times. From adversity, again came opportunities and innovation. At each of the key points in our country’s modern history, flexibility has been key to enabling farmers to assess where they’re at, what the future might look like, and how to get there. Whether the drivers for change are economic, regulatory, market, climate, political or environmental, that need for agility remains. The death-knell to flexibility is rigid rules that lock practices in at a specific point in time. This is even more so if that point in time is decades earlier, disregarding the human activity and modification of the environment (urban, industrial and rural) that subsequently occurred. Proposals for rigid rules seem all too rife at present. It’s a bit like playing ‘whack a mole’. No sooner is one proposal over, when another pops up. This is even more so given this avalanche of national rules and regulations is on top of existing biosecurity, animal welfare, employment, health and safety, district, regional air, water and land plans and bylaws. From a policy perspective, we want to make sure all these rules talk to each other. Nobody gains from confusing, unclear rules that contradict or duplicate each other. Farmers generally just want to know what they can and can’t do as of right, and what they might
PHOTO: Pixabay
need a resource consent for. Having to work that out by looking at umpteen rules from different places never goes down well. We’re currently facing new or changed proposals on water, biodiversity, soils and climate change, and if we get this right, we can address all four matters at once. There are real risks though if the answers are at crosspurposes. For example, if we just look at climate change, the answer for some is just to cover New Zealand in a sea of pines. The implications for biodiversity, soils and water, and for rural communities, are stark if this path is taken. Diversification will ultimately provide the way through for many farmers. We just need to look at the farmers around the Wānaka district already scoping out new breeds, products or markets; including taking up tourism and recreational venture opportunities as they arise. While the media talks up synthetic proteins (or fake meat or milk), many farmers are already looking to see what ingredients these are made from, and working out what is needed to grow them. At the end of the day, the real solutions to these challenges will come from on-farm and catchment level. We just need to give farmers sufficient ability to innovate and adapt, and the agility to move without being locked in at a point in time, and they’ll use it, just as Kiwis always have. Change can be scary, but I think it’s a ‘watch this space’ for the future of farming. This is the time to get things right.
The future of farming with One New Zealand Abby Costen
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
This Friday evening One New Zealand is hosting a talk series event in Wānaka, which offers insight into the future of farming. The trust organisation believes the rural sector is at the cusp of a new era. With farmers adapting and innovating throughout New Zealand, and the government aiming to drive world-leading policy around agricultural emissions. Vicky Spearing of One New Zealand said, “Jacinda Adhern and Minister James Shaw last week jointly agreed with the agricultural sector a commitment to legislate to reduce agricultural emissions under the Emissions Trading Reform Bill. While some would say it is not enough, it is a good start.” The four guest speakers at the event–Steve Canny, Blake Holgate, Kate Scott and Adele Fitzpatrick–will collectively address a variety of topics including the latest international market trends, soil mapping, diversification of food systems in the regions, sustainability in farming and ‘right tree, right place’ practices. Canny is Great South’s business and strategic projects general manager. Spearing commented that Canny was instrumental in the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment (MBIE)’s $6million project to acquire and analyse aeromagnetic data for specific parts of Southland, Otago and Marlborough, in order to provide subsurface mineral and water data for the areas. Holgate is a sustainability and agriculture analyst for
THE WĀNAKA SUN
PHOTO: The Wānaka Sun
Farmers have five years to develop and implement a more effective scheme to reduce their emissions.
Francesca Maria Nespolo
journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz
Prime Minister Jacinda Arderns’ recent announcement to delay farmers from the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) for five years as met with surprise from both sides of the political aisle. Randall Aspinall, a high country farmer and chair of Central Otago Federated Farmers told the Wānaka Sun, “Rather than saying it is agriculture not entering the ETS for five years, I would characterise it more as the agricultural industry has five years to develop and implement a more effective scheme to reduce emissions at an individual farm level, otherwise we default back to a broad industry scale scheme. The previous scheme was effectively just implementing an industrywide levy collected when we sell product to processors. It would collect revenue, but wouldn’t really encourage individual farmers to reduce their emissions. The new scheme they have announced should require all farmers to assess and account for the emissions on their own individual farms. They will still have to offset their emissions so there is a direct incentive for each farmer to introduce new technology, develop new ideas, plant trees or change their system to reduce their emissions. The delay was generally well received within the farming sector. A primary sector collective, representing 11
agricultural industry groups stated, “We are pleased that the Government has recognised that it does not make sense to bring agriculture into the Emissions Trading Scheme and that we have a pathway to work with the government to develop a more appropriate framework. The sector will work with Government to design a pricing mechanism where any price is part of a broader framework to incentivise the uptake of economically viable opportunities that contribute to lower global emissions”. The collective does not believe that a processor level ETS mechanism is the right approach, but they consider that is Government’s prerogative to put this in place. “Historically NZ farmers have been amongst the best in the world at developing ideas / technology / systems to beat new challenges and hopefully this puts the onus on individuals within the industry to do that again and reduce our gross emissions through behaviour change rather than relying on shortmedium term band aids such as plantation forestry,” said Aspinall. In addition, Cabinet has also agreed that in 2022 the independent Climate Change Commission will check in on the progress made and if commitments aren't being met, the Government can bring the sector into the ETS at processor level before 2025.
PHOTO: Pixabay
Rabobank. She will provide practical information on water and nutrients management strategies to help develop systems that are environmentally and financially sustainable. Spearing said “Kate Scott [...] will discuss how New Zealand is performing from an agricultural/ environmental perspective compared to elsewhere in the world, the role technology has in reducing the environmental footprint of agriculture, and how we might approach policy with a view to changing systems”. Fitzpatrick is the CEO of The Crimson Project and Trees That Count. She intends to share her passionate views about planting more native trees and to explain how farmers can get assistance for the funding and planting of trees. The ‘Future of Farming’ is at the Lake Wānaka Centre on November 1 from 6.30pm to 9pm. Tickets can be purchased at eventfinda.co.nz or at the door. Spearing added, “Friday night’s discussions promise to be of interest to many people, not just farmers.”
Rural fuel delivery – on time, every time
THURSDAY 31.10.19 - WEDNESDAY 06.11.19
PAGE 11
Sun News
Proposed District Plan Stage 3b Proposed Rural Visitor Zone & Variation to Open Space Chapter
thewanakasun.co.nz
Building Consent Authority maintains low-risk rating
PUBLIC NOTIFICATION OF RURAL VISITOR ZONE AND VARIATION TO OPEN SPACE CHAPTER - STAGE 3B OF THE QUEENSTOWN LAKES PROPOSED DISTRICT PLAN Submissions Date of public notice: 31 October 2019 Queenstown Lakes District Council invites submissions on Stage 3b of the Queenstown Lakes Proposed District Plan: Chapter 46 Rural Visitor Zone, and a variation to Chapter 38 Open Space and Recreation. Stage 3b is the result of reviewing Section 12 – Special Zones (Rural Visitor Zones) in the Operative District Plan. It introduces a new Chapter 46 Rural Visitor Zone and a series of zoning proposals, mapping notations, and variations and amendments to parts of zones and chapters that were decided through Stages 1 and 2 (including variations to the following Proposed District Plan Chapters: Chapter 25 Earthworks; Chapter 27 Subdivision and Development; Chapter 31 Signs; and Chapter 36 Noise). It also introduces a variation to Chapter 20 Settlement Zone in relation to Cardrona Village and the Cardrona Character Guideline 2012. Stage 3b also includes a variation to Chapter 38 Open Space and Recreation and associated changes to Chapter 36 Noise and Chapter 29 Transport. The text of the public notice for Stage 3 on 19 September 2019 did not note these changes in full, requiring them to be notified as part of Stage 3b.
The Council invites any person to make a submission on the Proposed District Plan Stage 3b provisions, variations and mapping notations. It is important to be aware that the hearings for Stage 1 and 2 are now complete. The Stage 3b zones apply where they have been notified on the Stage 3 Web Mapping Application viewer. A submission on plan provisions and mapping annotations that are not on Stage 3b of the Proposed District Plan is likely to be “out of scope” and if so would not be able to be considered. Options for making a submission are: • Online: www.qldc.govt.nz/proposed-district-plan-stage-3b •
•
Post: Queenstown Lakes District Council, Private Bag 50072, Queenstown 9348, Attention: Proposed District Plan Submission Email: pdpsubmissions@qldc.govt.nz (subject line: Proposed District Plan Submission)
The district wide chapters and provisions, and the variations to Stage 1, 2 and 3 district wide chapters, will apply to all land notified as part of Stages 1, 2, 3 and 3b. The notified zones on the Web Mapping Application Viewer predominantly affect land zoned Townships and in the Operative District Plan at Cardrona, and land zoned Rural Visitor Zone in the Operative District Plan at Arthurs Point, land adjacent to Wānaka Airport, Arcadia, Blanket Bay, Cecil Peak and Walter Peak. With the exception of the land adjacent to Wānaka Airport, the Rural Visitor Zone proposals affect land identified as Outstanding Natural Landscape. The variation to Chapter 38 Open Space and Recreation affects the PDP planning maps at Wānaka Town Centre, Queenstown Town Centre and Arrowtown Town Centre.
If you decide not to make a submission using our online form, please be aware that written submissions must be on Form 5 as prescribed by the Resource Management Act 1991. Your submission must state whether or not you wish to speak to your submission at a hearing. This form is available from the locations listed above and the MFE website.
All Queenstown Lakes District Ratepayers should receive a summary either by mail or email. If you don’t receive a copy, you can find it online at www.qldc.govt.nz/proposed-district-plan-stage-3b
What happens next?
Where to view the Proposed District Plan Stage 3b In addition to viewing the notified Proposed District Plan proposals online it can also be viewed at any of the following locations during business hours (8.30am-5.00pm).
The closing date for submissions is Monday 2 December 2019.
After submissions close: •
We will prepare a summary of decisions requested by submitters and publicly notify the availability of this summary and where the summary and full submissions can be inspected;
•
People who represent a relevant aspect of the public interest or have an interest greater than the interest of the general public may make a further submission, in the prescribed form within 10 working days of notification of the summary of decisions sought, supporting or opposing submissions already made;
•
A copy of the further submission must also be served on the Council and the person who made the original submission;
•
Submitters may speak in support of their submission(s) at a hearing if they have indicated in their submission that they wish to be heard;
•
Following the hearing the Council will give notice of its decision on the Proposed District Plan (Stage 3b) and matters raised in submissions, including its reasons for accepting or rejecting submissions;
Council Offices: • 10 Gorge Road, Queenstown • 74 Shotover Street, Queenstown • 47 Ardmore Street, Wānaka You can also view the Proposed District Plan online free of charge at any of the following locations during Library open hours. (Library opening hours vary, please check www.codc-qldc.govt.nz for details).
Public Libraries: • • • • • • •
Queenstown Library: 10 Gorge Road Wānaka Library: Dunmore Street Arrowtown Library: 58 Buckingham Street Makarora Library: Rata Road Glenorchy Library: 13 Islay Street Lake Hāwea Library: Myra Street Kingston Library: 48 Kent Street
Planning Maps We invite you to take a look and see what these proposals mean for you online at https://www.qldc.govt.nz/pdpstage3-notifiedversion The above Web Mapping Application Viewer contains a set of bookmarks which take you to the notified Stage 3b zone changes. • You can also use the search function and navigate to sites that interest you to double check the planning maps for that area. Unlike previous stages of the district plan review, the Web Mapping Application Viewer is the only place where you can find the proposed Stage 3 and 3b zones and mapping notations. The Council are not producing a numbered series of maps.
•
Every submitter then has the right to appeal the decision on the Proposed District Plan (Stage 3b) to the Environment Court.
Want more info or help understanding the proposals? Visit www.qldc.govt.nz/proposed-district-plan-stage-3b to find a range of fact sheets to help you understand some of the more technical parts of the Stage 3 district plan proposals. A duty planner will also be available during normal office hours during the notification period. Call 03 441 0499 (Queenstown) or 03 443 0024 (Wānaka) or email pdpenquiries@qldc.govt.nz This notice is in accordance with clause 5 of Schedule 1 of the Resource Management Act 1991.
WHAT’S BEING PROPOSED? •
More controls on what types of development are appropriate, where development may occur and the scale of buildings at Arcadia, Walter Peak, Cecil Peak and Blanket Bay. The revised Rural Visitor Zone would apply.
•
Re-zoning undeveloped ‘Windermere’ land adjacent to Wānaka Airport to Rural Zone.
•
Re-zoning Rural Visitor Zone land at Arthurs Point to Medium Density Residential with a Visitor Accommodation subzone to reflect this area is part of urban Queenstown. Parts of the existing Rural Visitor Zone on the slopes of Mount Dewar and the Shotover River would be re-zoned to Rural Zone and form part of the wider Outstanding Natural Landscape.
•
Areas of the existing Rural Visitor Zone that are likely to be unsuitable for development will be zoned Rural, or (as with large parts of Walter Peak and Arcadia) would have buildings made non-complying.
•
Re-zoning Cardrona from Rural Visitor Zone to Settlement Zone (Townships). A commercial precinct will be applied to some of the land that fronts Cardrona Valley Road, and a Visitor Accommodation subzone will be applied to the remaining areas. Many of the existing rules that allow buildings up to three storeys will be retained and buildings will need to reflect the Cardrona Village Character Guidelines.
Private Bag 50072 | 47 Ardmore Street Wānaka Phone 03 443 0024 | www.qldc.govt.nz
PAGE 12
THURSDAY 31.10.19 - WEDNESDAY 06.11.19
PHOTO: The Wānaka Sun
QLDC has retained its low-risk rating for the issuing of Building Consents.
Abby Costen
newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz
The Building Consent Authority (BCA) at Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) has maintained its low-risk rating from the International Accreditation of New Zealand (IANZ). During this audit process, an IANZ lead assessor, two technical assessors and a Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment observer, reviewed the BCA team’s practices and compliance with regulations. The BCA team receipts, processes and grants building consents and issues Code Compliance Certificates across the district. “The audit was an intense four-day assessment so it is pleasing to see we have maintained our low-risk rating and have been accredited for a further two years – this is the maximum allowable for a BCA,” said QLDC building services manager Chris English. “This places us as one of the most compliant BCAs in Aotearoa New Zealand. This is a marked difference to 2015/16 when the BCA came very close to losing its accreditation”. QLDC general manager of planning and development Tony Avery commented that the BCA team has made considerable improvements over the last four years and significant investment has been placed into improving this core council service. Avery added, “The BCA team plays an integral role in the functioning of our district, so I am proud of the hard work made to improve processes and ensure best practice across the board”.
Young Otago students encouraged to take on forestry careers Emma Conyngham
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
The Provincial Growth Fund (PGF)’s skills and employment programme will help young Otago people into long-term forestry careers, Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones announced on Tuesday. Te Ara Mahi will invest $63,000 in the 2020 school year to support eight 17 and 18 year olds to enter careers in forestry. “Forestry is currently enjoying a renewed lease on life thanks to the One Billion Trees programme and the Government’s emphasis on the sector for both regional development and environmental outcomes,” Jones said. The funding will see these young people trained, upskilled and supported into local full time employment. They will gain first-hand experience in the forestry industry, from establishment to production, while gaining industry-related qualifications,” Jones said. “Forestry is a major industry in the Otago region but forestry companies are short of workers. Additionally, there’s an ageing workforce so it’s important that we encourage more young people into sustainable and exciting forestry careers,” he continued. Participants for the programme will be recommended by their schools and will be interviewed for suitability before being accepted.
THE WĀNAKA SUN
Sun Views
thewanakasun.co.nz
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Relentless plastering of Jim Boult’s image
I just wish to tell you how very uncomfortable I am with your repeated ongoing plastering of Jim Boult's visage in your publication. The [17 October edition] of course takes it to the extreme. Not only an outrageous blowup on the front cover, but again inside. My offense is unrelated to whether I am a fan of Mr. Boult. The relentless plastering of his face in media is the norm in authoritarian regimes the world over throughout history. Hitler to Erdogan in Turkey to Xi in China to Un clan in Korea, who is successfully promoted as a God to the people. It is part of being a demagogue, creating a cult of personality around a leader; an approach that is totally antithetical to the kind of democracy we enjoy in New Zealand. Obviously Mr Boult has not achieved that level of inappropriate stature here, but the implied sentiment behind essentially forcing our community to gaze at close-ups of his person when we read the paper is repugnant. He is merely an elected citizen working for the community, not an elevated royal being to be gazed upon with awe. Please refrain from using any excuse to thrust his visage before us. We all know exactly what he looks like, right down to the wrinkles in his nose. Thank you. No name supplied
The Wānaka Sun responds
Dear [No Name] Many thanks for your letter. I really appreciate the time you have taken to contact us. It was not our intention to create a cult of personality or prop up an authoritarian regime. Our only intention was to illustrate the winner of a democratically elected leader who won by quite a sizeable margin. Unlike Nazi Germany, Turkey, China or North Korea, the Wānaka Sun freely criticises and critiques QLDC and they have never threatened to imprison us or kill us in response. In fact, QLDC has shown has a healthy respect for the fourth estate despite the daily barrage of emails and questions from us. Giving credit where credit is due (an election win) is different to holding them accountable throughout their period of governance; which we try to do as much as possible. We will continue to use Jim Boult’s (or any elected official) image for any relevant story. Unfortunately I can’t do anything about the wrinkles in his nose. Regards Emma Conyngham
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EDITORIAL
Getting a blood test in Wānaka is like getting blood out of a stone Emma Conyngham
Post election airport debrief. Where are we now? Kevin Wall: I'm all for pro-Wānaka airport and I have always reckoned there was more for than against but like all things in this country the minority make the most noise but they aren't always right! Jonathan Homer: I’m supportive of WSG not because I’m anti airport (that’s a simplistic view) but I feel we have been misled and the council and QAC are not representing the community in using appropriate community consultancy. The debate has become a bit toxic, the ability to listen and accept differing opinions seems to be a step too far on social media and Facebook is becoming more like an echo chamber.
Lucille Anderson: Let's face it, Queenstown voters will always outnumber Wānaka voters, sadly their incentives are not always aligned with ours. Simon Telfer: Where I believe Nik lost Wānaka support was when some of the key groups supporting him failed to pivot from being agitators/critics to being positive/ constructive. These groups will always have 20 percent ardent supporters and 20 percent who will never support them - the battle is for the hearts and minds of the ~60 percent of the constituency in the middle. The pivot never came and the negativity, I believe, became wearisome to many.
E Warnock: Wilson Art Taylor is quite incorrect! He doesn't understand cause and effect. We don’t know a single person who is for Airport development. People vote blindly, most of them anyway, they look for names on a ballot that are familiar. Also the turnout was well below 50 percent, what do the remaining 50 percent think? Acres of rental cars, strain on facilities, congestion, parking, accommodation. Not to mention the noise, bad enough now with small planes buzzing around. When the council have addressed the problems we have now in Wānaka, then would be the time to think about Airport expansion. Air NZ have already stated they will bring in jets, some people voted on prop planes not understanding it would be jets, and not just one or two a day. Stefan Schischka: If Nik has been for the bed tax he would probably got the vote. In the end the rate payers decided with their wallets.
THE WĀNAKA SUN
Lauren Ann Sleeman: Nevertheless a divisive issue in a community cannot be minimised. No one actually has the stats on the numbers either way so hopefully all involved will tread carefully. Graeme Barbara: I was in Queenstown yesterday ..... bumper to bumper ....... will be a 3hr trip to get to Queenstown Airport in 10 years time. We definitely need an alternative.
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
Last week was one of those weeks that ages a parent by about 10 years. Our seven year old erupted in lots of dark red skin bleeds down both arms in a matter of minutes. So we raced to the after hours clinic at Wānaka Medical. Fears that could have been allayed with a quick blood test, weren’t, because there are no quick blood tests in Wānaka. The lovely doctor was understanding, but said they had been talking about increasing diagnostic services here for four years but nothing was happening and if anything, it was going backwards. Miss Seven was otherwise well which was the confusing part, but nonetheless we were shuffled off to Dunstan Hospital. By the time we arrived at midnight, there were no more blood tests so we had to wait until the morning. Then we had to wait for the results. Then we had to wait for discharge papers. By time we got back to Wānaka, aside from being incredibly tired, I had lost a day’s wages, husband
lost a few hours work getting our other daughter off to school, and we had to pay for after school care for her also. All up, the cost of not having after hours diagnostics in Wānaka was over $300. It’s yet another fiscal reality that adds to the cost of living here — the so-called ‘Wānaka tax’. So, as soon as I returned I contacted the Southern District Health Board to enquire why diagnostic services here were so ‘slim’. Much to my surprise and delight, they responded with news of a pilot project that was literally days away from being announced. (See story on page three). Whilst the finer details of the service aren’t entirely clear, Southern Community Labs and the SDHB have at least acknowledged that services here need improving. It is what I call a step in the right direction. How far this project will go is up for debate and whether it prevents more drives to Dunstan in the middle of the night is unclear but as the project unfolds over coming months, hopefully we can all rest slightly easier knowing there is a bit more support should our health suddenly go awry.
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.
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PAGE 13
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Please send sports results to sports@thewanakasun.co.nz by Tuesday at noon. Results should be unformatted and presented in the body of the email. 10/26/2017 11:38:28 AM
Wanaka Bridge Club Results Monday – Silver Champ Pairs 11 North/ South: 1st Ian McDonald Errol Kelly 60.58%, 2nd George Foreman Alan Chisholm 54.62%, 3rd Brian McCandless Sherril Harries 54.23%. East / West: 1st Maggie Stratford Paul Cushnie 57.88%, 2nd Marc Simmonds Allan Kelly 56.73%, 3rd Ken Saxby Martin Unwin 51.73%. Wednesday – Tarras Stakes 3 North/South: 1st Nan Ottrey Jacquie Staley 56.85%, 2nd Jude Gunn Noeline Munro 54.76%, 3rd Jane Hamilton Annette Clements 51.79%. East/ West: 1st Denise Bunn Shona Watt 64.88%, 2nd Michael Chapman – Smith
Angela Heising 58.93%, 3rd Alwyne Haworth Maureen Hawke 55.65%. Final Ladder: 1st Nan Ottrey Jacquie Staley 56.63%, 2nd Noelene Raffills Kate Summers 56.44%, 3rd Noeline Viney Neil Robinson 54.28%. Friday 25 October Handicap North/ South: 1st Deirdre Lynch Barbara Waterworth 59.73%, 2nd Hans Limacher Claire Williams 54.34%, 3rd Brigit Neill Sue Blake 52.23%. East/West: 1st Shona Watt Claire Romeril 62.50%, 2nd Jill Paxman Kay Ross 51.42%, 3rd Pam Miller Carolyn Field 56.62%.
WĀNAKA’S INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER
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03 443 5252 • Fax: 03 443 5250 Emma Conyngham • editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
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THANKS Thanks to everyone who comes to Wastebusters to donate goods, shop and recycle. Your support helps us work for zero waste and a resourceful community.
SERVICES Wanaka Pharmacy is your local pharmacy. We’re the big pharmacy at the top of Helwick Street - open from 8am until 7pm every single day. Ph 443 8000 Community Networks is moving!! From the 4th November we will be at the new "Wanaka Community Hub" located at 34 McDougall Street. WHEELS TO DUNSTAN is a community "door to door" shuttle service available Monday to Friday to Dunstan Hospital or Alexandra specialist appointments, also linking with the St John Health Shuttle to Dunedin Hospital. For bookings, please call Community Networks on 443 7799. JP SERVICES are available at Community Networks every Tuesday from 1pm2pm and Friday from 10:30-11:30am. Please book your appointment by ringing Community Networks on 03 443 7799.
Wanaka Salvation Army Family Store. Opening Hours – Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm, Saturday 9.30am – 4pm. We look forward to seeing you here! 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, WANTED available from the Wanaka Salvation Army Family Merino, if anyone has any Store 443 5068. Merino clothing to spare could you kindly drop it into the Salvation Army Family Store, 48 Helwick Street The Salvation Army Family Store is desperately needing good quality mens clothing and shoes. If you could please just drop these into the store or phone for a pick up for large amounts. Volunteers welcomed at The Salvation Army Family store if you have some free time and would like to be part of a team which makes a difference, come and see us.
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Kahu Youth cardboard boat race report Emma Conyngham
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
Kahy Youth manager Richard Elvey said, “The Boat Race was amazing fun as always! We had 23 people take part in the polar plunge, and 26 boats enter the Boat Race. There must have been 300 people watching.” Lakeland Adventures were their usual great support, and gave the grand prize of a jet boat ride, and also supplying a safety man on the water on a jet ski for the races and letting competitors use their life jackets too (for those who forgot them). Kahu Youth were also grateful recipients of prizes donated by Cinema Paradiso, Dominoes, Amigos and Urban Grind. “The overall winner this year was X Wing, Captained by Milo and Oscar Adams, both aged 10. Rouge 3 got the Titanic trophy for best sinking (Ruby Smith 11, Amelia Latchford 12, India Scott 9 and Brynn Smith 8). Chop Chop (a giant lamb chop) got most outrageous (Zoe Nicholson and Mila Culpit, both 11),” said Elvey. “The Fastest Boat was Back in Black (Henry Mackay and Charlie Lovelock, both 9). Best Designed was Packraft – definitely built by Dad, Craig Baker, but also with Elsie Baker aged five on board, our joint youngest-ever competitor. Best Themed was The Tomatoes ( Jessie McNeil and Olivia Huddleston, both 12).”
PHOTOS: Kahu Youth
Awesome fun was had by everyone at the annual cardboard boat race.
EMPLOYMENT
DOMINATOR GARAGE DOORS
Security/Night Patrol Officer
CENTRAL OTAGO
Cougar Security are seeking a full time employee to join our busy team in Wanaka. Our Security Officers in Wanaka are responsible for a number of sites in the area which makes this a varied role. We are looking for an employee who is friendly, hardworking and who can handle an ever changing environment! To work with us you must: • Be able to work various hours (including nights and weekends) • Have a clean police record and be over 18 years old • A full drivers license • Have a valid working visa or be legally able to work in NZ
“Garage Door Installer” Wanaka/Cromwell We require a new garage door installer/technician to service our growing business in the Wanaka and Cromwell Area. This will be a waged position and duties involve the installation and servicing of garage doors and automatic openers to both new and existing homes. Training will be provided. To be successful in this role, you must: • be professional in interactions with customers and fellow staff members • have the ability to work quickly and efficiently • have the ability to lift heavy objects • be a fast learner • have the ability to work unsupervised or as part of a small team dependent on the job • be reliable and honest • be punctual and hardworking • have a clean drivers licence and • preferably have knowledge and experience using power tools (e.g. grinders, drills etc.) This position is full time Monday to Friday 7:30am – 4:30pm
To apply please visit cougarsecurity.co.nz/employment and fill out our online application form. For more information please email HR@cougarsecurity.co.nz
LIKE NEWS
We offer a competitive wage and use of a company vehicle. All tools are supplied. If this sounds like you, please email your covering letter and CV to: sales@dominatorcentral.com Applicants for this position MUST HAVE NZ residency or a valid NZ Work Visa for at least 12 months.
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FOR YOUR BUCK Target more of your target market with our huge online presence and unrivalled local print distribution. FOR BOOKINGS CALL 021 786 740 adrep@thewanakasun.co.nz THE WĀNAKA SUN
Southern Lakes ITM is COMING TO WANAKA New Zealand Hardware Journal Trade Store of the Year winner 2019 – Southern Lakes ITM, will be opening a new store in Wanaka early 2020. We need some committed, dedicated people to join our team that will offer a high level of customer service and can show they deliver on what they commit to. We are looking to fill the following roles: • Store Manager • Trade Sales Support • Showroom Sales • Store / Yard Sales Full training is always provided and remuneration will reflect the role and experience. Apply in confidence to: Paul Piebenga – Business Owner Email: Paul@southernlakesitm.co.nz Applications close Sunday 10 November. Southern Lakes ITM is a 100% locally owned and operated business with stores in Alexandra, Cromwell and Queenstown.
THURSDAY 31.10.19 - WEDNESDAY 06.11.19
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Sun Sport
Commitment pays off for karate champ Emma Conyngham
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
MAC year 7 student Ryan Enoka won both of the premier gold medals in the Southland Otago Karate Championships held in Queenstown over Labour Weekend. He competed in the 12-13 year old boys premier division taking out Kata and Kumite with convincing wins. The Otago Southland competition is the final Southern regional tournament of the year with athletes from throughout the South Island competing. Enoka has been doing karate for seven years and is now a brown belt. Like other athletes and artists from Wānaka, extensive travel is required each week with just as much parental commitment for driving as child commitment for training. Enoka and his younger brothers all travel to Cromwell and Queenstown each week to train as Wānaka’s dojo closed last year after the sudden death of Enoka’s beloved and very respected Sensei Chris McGregor. Enoka is now trained by Sensei Rhys McGregor and Sensei Gabriela Schmidt PHOTO: Supplied (tournament coach). Training requires MAC year 7 student Ryan Enoka won both of the premier gold medals in the Southland Otago karate serious commitment with up to five hours championships. in the dojo each week with many extra hours invited into a Canterbury 11-13 year medal in a national level tournament. He is boys team and they won a silver medal at now working hard with the goal of medalling at home – plus fitness training. Enoka has his sights set high. He was nationals on Team Kumite. This was his first in the NZ open and nationals tournaments.
thewanakasun.co.nz
MAC students win 12 Central Lakes Trust tertiary scholarships Emma Conyngham
editor@thewanakasun.co.nz
MAC year 7 student Ryan Enoka won both of the premier gold medals in the Southland Otago Karate Championships held in Queenstown over Labour Weekend. He competed in the 12-13 year old boys premier division taking out Kata and Kumite with convincing wins. The Otago Southland competition is the final Southern regional tournament of the year with athletes from throughout the South Island competing. Enoka has been doing karate for seven years and is now a brown belt. Like other athletes and artists from Wānaka, extensive travel is required each week with just as much parental commitment for driving as child commitment for training. Enoka and his younger brothers all travel to Cromwell and Queenstown each week to train as Wānaka’s dojo closed last year after the sudden death of Enoka’s beloved and very respected Sensei Chris McGregor. Enoka is now trained by Sensei Rhys McGregor and Sensei Gabriela Schmidt (tournament coach). Training requires serious commitment with up to five hours in the dojo each week with many extra hours at home – plus fitness training. Enoka has his sights set high. He was invited into a Canterbury 11-13 year boys team and they won a silver medal at nationals on Team Kumite. This was his first medal in a national level tournament. He is now working hard with the goal of medalling in the NZ open and nationals tournaments.
Tourism Industry Aotearoa Workshop SUC Free Wanaka Launch One Voice - Stories of Changemakers What are the Global Goals? (Schools) Building Better Unwrapping Zero Waste for Business Business with Purpose Workshop Reducing Household Waste - The Zero Waste Approach
OCT 29 - NOV 03 QUEENSTOWN & WANAKA
RE-Generation (Schools) Zero Carbon Business Workshop The Future of Farming Making an Impact - One Day Event Community Hub Opening Celebration ECO FAIR
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THURSDAY 31.10.19 - WEDNESDAY 06.11.19
THE WĀNAKA SUN