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Thur 14.07.11 - wed 20.07.11
Drivers in the storm
Recipe of life page 2
Sue Wards
Musical Mel
The sudden arrival of winter has resulted in challenging conditions for motorists around the Wanaka region. Reports of car accidents, motorists trapped on the Crown Range and vehicles sliding off snow resort access roads may continue with the forecast for more snow this week.
“People need to properly assess the conditions before getting in their cars and driving when roads are covered in snow and ice,” Queenstown Lakes District Council transport manager Denis Mander said. “We’re still seeing vehicles without chains being abandoned on roadsides because their owners didn’t think their decision
through properly.” Senior Sergeant Allan Grindell of Wanaka Police said there had been issues with people trying to cross the Crown Range when it’s closed and not wearing chains when they should. “You get tourists from places like Asia and Queensland who probably don’t appreciate what snow can do and its dangers.”
A local snow chain provider helped four vehicles on the Crown Range on Saturday night, including people who ignored snowfall and warning signs. A QLDC spokeswoman said when the Crown Range is closed a contractor travels the length of the pass and back to ensure all traffic is cleared. “Anyone to then come across after that would have to drive
around the barriers – and they do,” she said. The culprits are mainly locals, she said. “It is very dangerous. It is an alpine pass and unless you’re prepared to spend a very cold night, it’s not worth the risk.” Road information is available on the QLDC website, the Transit New Zealand website or by phoning Transit’s Infoline (0800 44 44 49).
page 4
PHOTO: wanaka.tv
Grass roots rugby Swazi Man page 6
All Blacks of the future: Layne Opetaia led the Upper Clutha 12-13 year-old team in the haka. PHOTO: charlotte trundle
Love photos? page 16
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Charlotte Trundle Cold, rainy conditions didn’t stop the Upper Clutha 12 and 13-year-old rugby team soundly beating their Australian opponents at the Wanaka Showgrounds last week. A passionate haka by the home team put out the challenge to the Australian schoolboy rugby team - the Mosman Barracudas. Within five minutes the Upper Clutha took the lead. Former Wallaby captain Phil Kearns coaches the Barracudas, but the team was no match for a strong Upper Clutha side who won 46-10. “It felt great to win. I’m sure the boys enjoyed it as much as I did. Even though it was cold we still held out until the end,” Upper Clutha fullback Layne Opetaia said. “The Mosman boys were cool kids to meet, and the game was amazing.” Coming to New Zealand had been a great experience, Mosman Barracuda Finn Kearns said. “We have had lots of fun,” he said. “It is cool having my dad coach the team, one day I hope to be a Wallaby too.”