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Hoofing it
inside:
Big move for rodeo page 2
A busy retirement
Competitors battle it out in the Wanaka Pharmacy Makarora Pacing Handicap 2000 metres at the Lake Hawea Picnic Races.
page 5
PHOTO: wanaka.tv
Keep off the grass Warnings from parking warden upset Hawea residents
2011 inreview pages 6-9
City gig for senior sergeant page 16
Read online:
www.thewanakasun.co.nz
Laura Williamson Hawea residents angry at warnings they’ve received for parking on grass verges have complained to the mayor. A group of Hawea business owners sent a letter dated December 27 to Mayor Vanessa Van Uden asking that the Queenstown Lakes District Council rein in an “enthusiastic” parking warden. The letter, written by Destination Hawea Business Group secretary Liz Matheson, addressed recent warnings issued by Wanaka parking warden Daryl Taylor to owners of cars parked on grass verges in Hawea. The letter noted that the main town infrastructure in Hawea remains to “village” standards, meaning few
A passing car straddles the centre line to avoid parked cars on Lakeview Terrace as Di Turnbull looks on. PHOTO: wanaka.tv
roads had curbing or channeling, and roads were narrow with little room for cars to park on the seal.
In many cases, parking on the road would mean passing traffic would need to cross the centre line to avoid
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the parked vehicles. Liz, who owns Sailz Restaurant & Bar, called the warnings “nonsense”. “You can’t apply big town parking regulations to a village,” she said. She also pointed out that verges were maintained by residents. “Who mows them? Not the council.” In a meeting on December 20, the Hawea Community Association agreed to back Destination Hawea with a similar letter. Vice president Di Turnbull said the warden had started issuing warnings in the past year. In her opinion, the main issue was a practical one. On Lakeview Terrace, for example, she said that two cars parked on the road across from one another would obstruct two-way traffic. Story continues on page 3
sunnews
Big move for rodeo Laura Williamson Preparations are underway for the annual Wanaka Rodeo, to be held on January 2, and this year there was more to do than usual. The 2012 event will take place at a new venue on the Hawea side of the Albert Town bridge, and the change has meant a lot of work for organisers, said club member Ray Wheeler. “We carted in thousands of metres of soil, made an embankment, moved office blocks and the timekeeper’s box, brought in tanks for water and fenced the whole thing in deer fencing,” Ray said.
The rodeo, which drew about 3000 spectators last year, will feature several events during the day. Highlights will include steer wrestling (“you need to be pretty tough to
moving to its most recent venue on Golf Course Road in the early 1970s. Ray said the Wanaka Rodeo Club has a lease for about 35 years on the new land.
You need to be pretty tough to be a steer wrestler. be a steer wrestler,” Ray said), barrel racing and the bull ride. Children can also join in on stick horse racing and a sheep ride. The Wanaka Rodeo started at the Wanaka showgrounds in 1963,
The Rodeo starts at 10am with the second division competition, with open events starting at 1pm. All spectators are reminded to bring sunscreen and hats.
Kerry Macdonald saddled up for a Wanaka Rodeo practice day on November 26. PHOTO: wanaka.tv
Suspected rustlers rounded up
Raewyn Roberston. PHOTO: laura williamson
Two men will be charged with alleged stock thefts of approximately 600 deer and 120 sheep worth an estimated $250,000 from a property at Mount Barker over the past two years. Police reported the two, a 27-year-old Wanaka man and a 36-year-old former Wanaka resident now living in Motueka will appear in the Queenstown District Court on January 30, 2012. Detective Dave Evans of Wanaka police said it appeared the alleged thefts occurred from May 2009 until August 11, 2011, with a local farmer raising concerns with them in September of this year about missing stock. Detective Evans said the charges only relate to one farm near Wanaka, with some of the animals belonging to two neighbouring farmers. He said the investigation currently shows no link between the two men and other reported stock thefts elsewhere in Central Otago.
Visitors opt for outdoors New cancer liaison
Tim Brewster Settled weather is giving local outdoor operators one of the best Christmas periods in years despite a continued downturn in retail and a drop in motel bookings. Jools Holland of Skydive Wanaka and Wanaka Flightseeing operator Andy Woods both said the calm weather in the last month has meant they have been able to operate almost every day, compared to almost half that in the previous year. Jools said the weather also helped them manage numbers more easily without having to deal with a backlog of people who had missed out the day before. Lee Eadie from Eco Wanaka Adventures said they are continuing to see their numbers increase on their day walks and boat trips to Mou Waho island following a strong marketing push in the past year.
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Laura Williamson
“It’s not really just one thing. People are starting to see us and some of the other operators as established, they’re reading reviews and we’ve invested in marketing.” Sue Pihama from Wanaka River Journeys said their jetboating operation is very weather dependant and, after the flooding last year in the Matukituki Valley, they have had consistently
higher numbers over this holiday period. Lake Wanaka Tourism general manager James Helmore said the iSite activity is up from last year and that visitors are starting to have a more specific idea about what activities they want to do. “The amazing weather certainly helps. If we don’t have cancellations people go away happy.”
Aspiring Guides director Andy Oxley said the desire for outdoor experiences seems to remain strong despite the recession with the company continuing to grow. “People are spending money on aspirational experiences rather than on things. Maybe it’s a shift in culture.”
Wanaka residents affected by cancer now have a dedicated Cancer Society liaison to help them deal with the disease. Raewyn Robertson is the new Support Service Liaison in Wanaka. She will support cancer sufferers, as well as their friends and families, in Wanaka, Tarras, Hawea and Luggate. Previously, the Wanaka area was serviced from the Cancer Society’s Queenstown office. Raewyn was a nurse for more than 40 years, including five years spent as the diabetes nurse educator for Central Otago, working out of Dunstan Hospital. She had been planning to retire, but said when she saw the advertisement for the Cancer Society job, “I thought it would be nice to put something back into
the community.” Clients are referred to Raewyn through district nurses, oncology and sometimes family and friends. “People will go through periods of needing more or less support, from their diagnosis through
including a walking group, social afternoon teas and yoga for people affected by cancer. But Raewyn said often the most important thing she and her team did was listen. “People often just need someone to talk to,”
I thought it would be nice to put something back into the community. difficult moments,” she said. Raewyn currently has 26 clients on her list. She works with a team of five volunteers. Together, they help people with everything from transport subsidies, to providing meals, to filling out forms, to practical tasks like cleaning and vacuuming. Volunteers also run support groups
Thursday 29 December to Wednesday 04 January 2012
she said. The Cancer Society of New Zealand also undertakes fundraising to support cancer prevention programmes, promote healthy living and fund research and development. Wanaka volunteers are putting together a team for the 24-hour Relay for Life Central Otago in Cromwell on March 17.
Keep off the grass Continued from page 1 She had built a grass verge outside her Lakeview Terrace property specifically to provide parking for visitors’ vehicles so that they would not block the road. To be then warned for parking there was “verging on the ridiculous.” In sending
also found a warning on his vehicle parked “out of the way” on Elizabeth Street said residents had received warnings for parking in locations where they had been parking for “years and years”. “If we’re not allowed to park in those places, they need to give us
We are complaining on behalf of our community. the letters, she said “we are complaining on behalf of our community.” Residents who have received warnings include Central Motorways school bus driver Bernie Osborne, who parked his bus on an empty section on Mary Lane in order to clean it. He said that, had he parked on the seal, the road would have been blocked. Donald Urquhart, who
other places to park,” he said. According to the Queenstown Lakes District Council website, the fine for parking on a “grassed berm or landscaped area” is $40. Lakes Environmental, which monitors parking in the Queenstown Lakes District, could not be reached for comment during the holiday period.
sunnews
Decision leaves bitter taste inbrief Tim Brewster
A decision by council to allow only seven days filming at the Dublin Bay property of celebrity chef Annabel Langbein and husband Ted Hewetson for a new 13 part series has forced the production to go to other regions and potentially promote them instead. Ted Hewetson said Lakes Environmental would only issue a seven day consent out of 70 days requested, offered no explanation and were “unmoved” by the argument that the series benefits the area and has no negative impact at all. The series is a sequel to the “The Free Range Cook” and is being screened in 79 regions including the UK, Europe, Australia and Asia with an estimated audience of millions. Ted said there is no
set built, they use one truck and five people, and the series “doesn’t disturb anyone, it’s just some people shuffling around in the garden and having lunch.” The series will now only have an estimated 20 days filming in the Wanaka
were, but they had been very helpful. Lake Wanaka Tourism general manager James Helmore said that he would have to talk to the council and Ted Hewetson before making a comment on the decision. He said the exposure
It’s quite sad from the region’s point of view. area with the remaining 50 elsewhere. Ted said they attempted to get permission three times using a professional resource consent consultancy and each time were turned down without any reason given. “It’s quite sad from the region’s point of view, it shows beautiful landscapes, nice local food and nice people.” Ted did not want to say where the other regions
for Wanaka in the last series showcasing the scenery and produce in the area and using local Wanaka identities as lunch guests was “great for the area.” The Wanaka Sun was unable to get a comment from Lakes Environmental duty planners. No-one was available and their website stated that their office would reopen on January 4.
the region and engage the community. “We were overwhelmed by applications and the high level of interest took us by surprise,” Central Lakes Trust chief executive Paul Allison said. “The range and variety of the events being planned was highly impressive and subsequently we increased the funding pool to ensure that the wide variety of excellent activities and events could proceed.” Grant recipients in the Wanaka region include the Cardrona Heritage Trust, Makarora Primary School, Wanaka Primary School and Tarras Primary School.
Photo comp still open The entry date for the Queenstown Lakes District Council Kids Photo Competition has been extended. The competition, with the theme ‘Our People, Our Place’, is open to all school-aged children in the district. The QLDC communications manager Meaghan Miller said they have “already received some stunning entries”. Twenty to thirty images will be used to illustrate the new 10-Year Plan and the single best image will win the photographer a Nikon Coolpix camera.
The New Zealand Walking Access Commission has launched the Outdoor Access Code to help people understand how to behave when accessing the outdoors. Commission chief executive Mark Neeson’s top tips for responsible outdoor access are: consider others when walking, cycling and horse riding; take care when using firearms or lighting fires; and ask permission before crossing private land. “Enjoying the outdoors is part of what it is to be a New Zealander, and it’s important that everyone is aware of their responsibilities,” he said. The Commission has developed an online Walking Access Mapping System to help identify public access land.
No umbrellas needed
PHOTO: supplied
Thursday 29 December to Wednesday 04 January 2012
Last summer ten people drowned in New Zealand waters between December 24 and January 5. Water Safety New Zealand (WSNZ) is calling for caution when on the water: “Wear life jackets, check the weather forecast, stay within your limits, don’t swim alone and avoid alcohol,” WSNZ chief executive Matt Claridge said. ”It’s not rocket science but it could save your life.” New Zealand Mountain Safety Council CEO, Darryl Carpenter said “extreme caution should be taken” when crossing rivers. Both organisations remind people to answer three questions before attempting to cross a river: do we cross; where do we cross; and how do we cross.
Be responsible outdoors
Trust cash for gold discovery Central Lakes Trust has approved 39 grants totalling more than $400,000 for community organisations and schools to help commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the Discovery of Gold in the region. Earlier this year, the Trust initially approved a contestable funding pool of $200,000 to encourage local groups to recognise this regional milestone, which will occur in 2012 and 2013. The funding pool was made available for celebrations that preserve the legacy of the gold rush days, promote the physical and cultural heritage of
Water safety reminder
Weather-wise, Wanaka will be the place to be on New Year’s Eve. According to MetService forecaster Melissa Roux, the lower to middle South Island will have “the best weather in the country” over the New Year’s weekend. The Wanaka forecast for both Saturday and Sunday is for fine weather and light winds. Meanwhile, fronts and troughs associated with a low sitting out west will bring periods of rain with some heavy falls to popular North Island holiday destinations such as the Coromandel and Northland over the next few days.
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Thursday 29 December to Wednesday 04 January 2012
sunnews
A busy retirement Laura Williamson He is probably best known in Wanaka as a local rural health care advocate, but Russell McGeorge had come a long way before he arrived here. As the chairman of Central Otago Health Services Ltd (COHSL), Russell has been involved for three years in trying to secure a CT scanner for Dunstan Hospital. This involvement became very public recently, when the Southern District Health Board recommended Otago residents decide whether a new scanner be installed at Dunstan or at Lakes District Hospital in Queenstown. Recent meetings in Alexandra and Cromwell attracted 330 and 210 people respectively, while a gathering in Wanaka drew 150 attendees. “One book club delayed their meeting to attend,” Russell said, adding that approximately two thirds of the people at each meeting put up their hands when asked if they had had a scan. “We need a machine locally.” Russell trained as a civil engineer at Canterbury University. After graduation he married Pamela, his high school sweetheart, and worked for five years before
heading to the University of California at Berkeley with two young children in tow. It was 1969, and the Free Speech Movement was at its height. “The first day I arrived at Berkeley, everyone was wearing towels around their faces,” Russell said. He didn’t know why, until he realised they were
industry was very strong in the United States.” Russell also worked on earthquake engineering for the Trans-Alaska oil pipeline, a controversial and complex project. Memories of the 1964 Anchorage quake were still fresh, and the oil, which had to be heated to flow, would be taken across
The first day I arrived at Berkeley, everyone was wearing towels around their faces. part of a crowd of students facing a line of police armed with tear gas. While there, he witnessed the famous scenes of protesters putting daffodils into the rifles of National Guardsmen, and his wife and children were exposed to tear gas. Despite the upheavals, the McGeorges stayed on in California, where Russell worked for an engineering firm on nuclear power stations, doing analytical work on buildings and piping, designing them for both operational loadings and for earthquakes. Russell said it was an exciting time to be in the field. “It offered high level engineering challenges at a time when the nuclear power
permafrost, which would be permanently damaged if it came into contact with the warm liquid. In 1974, Russell shifted to Paris to set up an office for his employer, EDS Nuclear, working on European nuclear stations. Both he and Pamela had found the level of violence in American life daunting (Russell described a colleague in San Francisco who came to work every day with a pistol in his belt). While in France, their children attended French schools and their fourth child was born there. They returned to Auckland in 1980 when their eldest child was ready for secondary school, where Russell continued to work
in engineering, including on the “Think Big” energy projects. Russell and Pamela moved to Wanaka, where his parents had owned a holiday house for 35 years, after Russell took early retirement. “We’ve been here for ten years, and we love it,” he said. It has not been a sedentary decade. As well as serving as chair of COHSL, he is chairman of Wanaka Wastebusters. He got involved after seeing Wastebusters general manager Sue Coutts speak at a Probus meeting, where he said, “I was impressed by how Sue had taken Wastebusters from a group of enthusiasts to a wellmanaged organisation.” As well, he and Pamela, a well-known gardening writer, collaborated on several gardening and geographic books featuring Pamela’s words and Russell’s photos. For one, New Zealand’s Islands, they visited or flew over almost 130 of this country’s islands. Russell has slowed down a bit now, with he and Pamela splitting their time between Wanaka and Auckland, where they help out with their five grandchildren. Which, come to think of it, doesn’t sound that slow at all.
Thursday 29 December to Wednesday 04 January 2012
Russell McGeorge. PHOTO: Laura Willaimson
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2011 inreview
January Keep camp the same
Town beats country
The unveiling of the ‘Glendhu Bay Holiday Park Masterplan’ prompted councillors and campers to unite in the wish to have “the camp stay the way it is”.
The annual Lake Hawea Town vs Country community battle, with everything from egg and spoon relays to ultimate Frisbee, was won by the townies with 11 victories from the 16 events.
February
Mums for charity Among the 1210 national and international athletes that converged in town for the fifth Challenge Wanaka festival were mums Debbie McLachlan, Hannah MacDonald and Vicky Sandford who competed to raise money for Upper Clutha Plunket.
PHOTO: nikki heath
No dogs Under a Queenstown Lakes District Council bylaw, dogs were banned from Bremner Bay from December 1 to March 31.
West house for sale The Wests’ house on Ardmore Street was put up for sale. Half of the proceeds of the sale were bequeathed to a charitable trust for the benefit of local community organisations.
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Sixth in the world Wanaka’s Katharine Eustace placed sixth in World Cup skeleton racing in Switzerland, gaining the best result by a New Zealand woman.
Museum closes The New Zealand Fighter Pilots’ Museum closed its doors. The collection of aero memorabilia from World War I and World War II was transferred to the Warbirds Over Wanaka Community Trust.
Thursday 29 December to Wednesday 04 January 2012
2011 inreview Wanaka responds
Swimmers make a big splash at championships
March
The Wanaka community responded to the Christchurch earthquake appeal with schools, clubs and businesses throughout Wanaka giving generously. Community Networks provided quake assistance and the Salvation Army helped displaced families with offers of clothing and provisions. The old Catholic Church on Brownston Street was turned into a drop-in centre. The Wanaka Sun Quake Food Bank Drive took to the streets, with the help of the fire brigade, St John ambulances, the police and volunteers, to replenish Community Networks’ food bank and help set up the Quake Drop-In Centre.
Wanaka Swim Club won 18 medals at the Otago Swimming Championships in Dunedin. The 14 member squad, aged between eight and 15-years-old, set 67 personal best times at the competition.
A&P show entertains About 16,500 people attended the 74th annual Upper Clutha A&P Show where the New Zealand Army Band entertained the crowd.
All hands on deck in Christchurch Queenstown Lakes District Council made a formal offer of assistance to Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker and Wanaka police deploy staff and vehicle to Christchurch after the 6.3 magnitude earthquake rocked the city. Wanaka schools opened their doors to Christchurch residents moving out of the city.
Sports facility location decided The Queenstown Lakes District Council voted eight to two to locate the $10 million sports facility at the proposed Three Parks development green field site. The meeting was attended by about 150 people, with 43 speakers representing Wanaka sports’ organisations and businesses: 24 supported the green field site and 19 supported the show ground.
Thursday 29 December to Wednesday 04 January 2012
Siberia Hut destroyed Siberia Hut was destroyed by fire. The hut was unoccupied at the time of the blaze but 18 people were evacuated from the valley.
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April
2011 inreview
500th Edition The Wanaka Sun celebrated the 500th edition by giving two of our readers the chance to experience some of Wanaka’s most spectacular attractions with Wanaka Nature Encounter.
Red and black Almost $11,000 was raised at Wanaka’s Red & Black Concert for the Canterbury Earthquake Appeal.
Disc golf approved Disc Golf Wanaka gets the go ahead to put a Frisbee golf course on Lismore Park.
Dam for Luggate?
Inspirational song
Contact Energy undertook geotechnical investigations at Devils’ Nook to determine whether the area was suitable to build a hydro-electric dam. Luggate is one of four possible options for future hydro development on the Clutha River/Mata-Au.
‘We are heading to London’, a song recorded and written by the Year 8 class 8LB from Mount Aspiring College, featured on the Anthem in Black compilation CD, which will be used to inspire New Zealand Olympic athletes.
Wanaka snowsport stars shine Freeski World Champion Jossi Wells and Paralympic gold medal skier Adam Hall were named joint winners of the Bruce Grant Memorial Award for Overall Sportsperson of the Year.
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Easter trading The Easter trading laws come under fire again with many Wanaka retailers opening on Good Friday and Easter Sunday despite the Shop Trading Hours Repeal Act 1990 which requires Wanaka businesses to close on these days, yet allows Queenstown retailers to remain open.
Festival of Colour The fourth Festival of Colour featured 68 performances held over six days with 12,000 tickets sold to music, theatre, film, art and dance events. Tribute was paid to the late playwright Graeme Tetley at the premiere of his play Riverside Drive, directed by Sara Brodie.
Thursday 29 December to Wednesday 04 January 2012
2011 inreview
May
College kayakers clean up
June Shrek dies at sixteen
An eight-person Mount Aspiring College Kayak Slalom team won 12 national titles and 31 medals at the New Zealand secondary school kayaking championships and the New Zealand open kayaking championships in Kawerua in the Bay of Plenty.
New Zealand’s most iconic sheep, sixteen-yearold Shrek, died at his Bendigo Station home.
Matariki celebrated More than 400 people celebrated Matariki (the Maori New Year) on Wanaka’s lakefront.
PHOTO: supplied
jaquiery PHOTO: stephen
A sad loss The Wanaka community mourned the loss of flight instructor Graham Stott and trainee commercial pilot Marcus Hoogvliet who were killed when the Robinson R22 helicopter they were in crashed in the Arawhata Valley.
Shaping the future Queenstown Lakes District “Shaping Our Future” forums began in Wanaka, the first of which looked at the district’s economic future. The forums were described by QLDC Mayor Vanessa van Uden as a “giant fishing expedition” with the aim to gather and fine tune ideas.
Dairy proposed A large scale dairy farm is proposed for a site in Hawea Flat bringing mixed reaction from local groups.
Freedom camping QLDC introduced tighter controls on crappy campers and Environment Minister Nick Smith announced new legislation with the same intention. The bylaw introduced a ‘no freedom camping zone’ within the district with instant fines of $200 for freedom campers found outside of designated camping areas.
Changes to airport under discussion Commissioners Bob Batty and Stephen Chiles considered changes to land-use designations and district plan regulations which govern Wanaka Airport. Chamber of Commerce president Leigh Stock said if planners only look at the next 20 years “we’ll end up with a retirement village full of Piper Cherokees out at the airport”. The proposed changes to the airport include a runway extension and runway safety area, a new passenger terminal and control tower.
Order of Merit for Adam
PHOTO: supplied
Paralympic skier Adam Hall was awarded the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to sport in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list 2011.
Winter delayed Mother Nature provided a challenge to Wanaka’s winter tourism industry with late snow, volcanic ash and Christchurch’s ongoing woes contributing to fewer visitors to the South Island. Treble Cone, Cardrona Alpine Resort and Snow Park delayed their opening dates due to lack of snow.
Quality without compromise
Jim Murray of Ignite Plumbing and Gas.
After four years of working alongside the area’s best practitioners of the trade as a fully certified plumber and gasfitter, Jim Murray has now set up Ignite to operate under his own name. “I see myself primarily in the customer service industry, and people can expect a New Zealand qualified tradesmen when they use my services.” Ignite specialises in anything to do with “gas fires, water, heating
and sanitation.” Jim’s approach is to find the best solutions tailored to people’s budgets and timeframes using “best in
available with the launch of his own business. Local knowledge, experience and a quality product delivered with
We look harder for solutions and clients get more value as a result. class” technology. His experience gathered after working for some of Wanaka’s best specialists in the industry is now
an outstanding level of service is his focus. Jim sees the recession as an opportunity to drive innovation. “We look
harder for solutions and clients get more value as a result.” Combined with his approach to environmental or “green” plumbing solutions such as heat recovery systems and the attitude that a person’s home should be treated as a palace means that clients can rely on a professional level of expertise and a commitment to getting the job done right, the first time. * aDVERTORIAL
MOBILE: (021) 0279 3362 jim@igniteservices.co.nz
Thursday 29 December to Wednesday 04 January 2012
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sunnews Robert Duncan with a 1918 Packard Twin Six model.
Best dressed
PHOTO: wanaka.tv
Women’s fashion store 47Frocks has won the Best Dressed Shop Window award for 2011. Jen Aitken runs the competition as part of Light Up Wanaka, a QLDC initiative to encourage residents and businesses in Wanaka to get behind Christmas with lights and decorations. Ed Taylor from Radio Wanaka chose the winner, and Jen said his choice was an excellent one. “It was stunning, really well done,” said Jen. Bridget Legnavsky, who owns 47Frocks with Anna Brewster, said that the window was designed around her and Anna’s experience of Christmas in the Northern Hemisphere. “I love winter Christmases. We wanted to create a sense of snow, of dark, of lampposts, to take you somewhere else.” The centerpiece of the display was a Nom*D compression belt. - Laura Williamson
Cars, planes and picture frames The Warbirds & Wheels visitor attraction opened last Wednesday, drawing what spokesperson George Wallis called “an amazing number of people.” The attraction includes warbirds, classic cars, a Sir Tim Wallis Display and original New Zealand art. The attraction has been developed by the Warbirds Over Wanaka Community Trust over the past year and replaces the NZ Fighter
Pilots Museum. Aircraft on display include a RNZAF Skyhawk fighter jet, a Strikemaster, a Hurricane and a WW1 SE5A, with the Classic Car opening collection including a line-up of 26 vehicles, predominantly American models sourced from local private collectors. A Packard theme will debut, featuring a rare 1918 Packard Twin Six model, one of only two
made in 1918 in the Fleetwood body style. The car is six-fendered, has rear brakes only and was restored in Wanaka over a four-year period. The Sir Tim Wallis Story details the exploits of the legendary deer recovery pioneer and Warbirds over Wanaka founder. Original artworks by New Zealand artists such as Toss Woollaston are on display in the Visual Arts Gallery. Four collections from
the Real Art Roadshow will be rotated through the gallery. George said the new attraction offers something for everybody, whether mechanicallyminded or not. “The Real Art Roadshow is absolutely brilliant. I took my grandchildren for a preview on Boxing Day, and when I went to find them they were all in there looking at the art,” he said.
Wanaka talent in print Laura Williamson Several Wanaka writers and artists have had their work included in the 2012 edition of The Kiwi Diary, a nationally-distributed daily planner. Locals featured in the diary include photographers Bridget Hall and Prue Wallis, poet Libby Paulin, conservationist Jan Kelly, artist AnnekeStewartanddesignerSharon Parker (“Aotearocka”). “Wanaka has a thriving creative culture that we love top tap into. It’s been wonderful to showcase some of the talent down here,” said Marketing Manager
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Annabel Wilson. The 250-page diary features art, poetry, stories, recipes and articles from across New Zealand, as well as a significant fact from New Zealand’s history on each day. Annabel, a freelance writer and secondary school teacher, came up with the idea for the idea while on a walk at Te Onetahua, Farewell Spit, during Easter 2004. Inspired by the landscape, she conceived of a publication that would reflect all that is unique in New Zealand culture. The diary was launched in 2005, with the first edition published
Thursday 29 December to Wednesday 04 January 2012
locally in Wanaka. The print run was 100, and copies were sold at the Sunday market, a “holiday project” for Annabel, who was teaching in Nelson at the time. Annabel retuned to Wanaka last year and now works full time at Mount Aspiring College. The diary is now published in Wellington, with 3000 copies produced. As well as being sold across New Zealand, the diary is available worldwide online. “It’s very popular overseas, especially in the UK, and we’ve even had sales as far afield as The Netherlands,” said Annabel.
sunnews
Recycled technology The first recycled flat screen television has appeared at Wanaka Wastebusters. Wastebusters spokesperson Gina Dempster said the television was in good condition and will be sold at the Re-Store. Technology products such as e-readers, tablets, smartphones and internet enabled televisions are expected to be popular Christmas presents this year, raising the question of how to
deal with discarded electronics. RCN e-Cycle spokesperson Tania Pilkinton said discarded electronics should not be put in the rubbish. Consider taking preloved electronics to Wanaka Wastebusters or giving them to someone who can use them, she said. “All electronic goods are toxic and contain hazardous materials that are harmful to human health and the environment, if not
crimescene
disposed of properly,” she said. “In fact, each individual piece of electronic equipment can contain enough toxins to make a person seriously ill.” Charges depend on what you are recycling, with CRT televisions generally more expensive than computers because there is less value in anything being extracted from a CRT television for reuse and there are more toxins to dispose of.
Nude walker Last Friday, a female complainant called police at 1pm to report a man in his 30s or 40s walking alone on the Mount Iron track dressed in nothing but shoes, a hat and a backpack.
Youth arrest An Alexandra youth was arrested at 9.40pm on Boxing Day for obstructing police on Ardmore Street. He was also found to be in possession of cannabis. He will appear in the Queenstown District Court on January 9.
PHOTO: Ministry for the Environment
Burnouts Police received reports of vehicles doing burnouts at the Outlet Motor Camp last Tuesday. The driver took off on foot, but two other individuals were arrested for behavioural offences at the scene.
Beer bust Two 16-year-old males were found to be in possession of 21 bottles of beer on Beacon Point Road last Tuesday. The alcohol was confiscated and each was given a $150 liquor infringement notice.
Fender benders A 41-year-old female driver engaged the accelerator instead of the brake, hitting the car in front of her on Ardmore Street at 12.20pm last Tuesday. She was issued with an infringement notice. At 2.30pm on the same day a 28-year-old female driving on State Highway 6 between Haast and Makarora lost control of her vehicle on a bend and crashed off the road. She received minor cuts and has been charged with careless driving.
If you have information on any crimes call 0800CRIMESTOPPER (0800555111).
Thursday 29 December to Wednesday 04 January 2012
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Thursday 29 December to Wednesday 04 January 2012
sunnews New Year’s Eve in Wanaka New Year’s Eve revelers will be spoilt for choice this year, with a range of events on offer in the region. In Wanaka, local band The Station Agents and Wellington act Mercury Crowe will perform on the lakefront prior to a midnight fireworks display and country music singer Jody Direen will play a New Year’s Eve concert at the Lake Wanaka Centre. The Luggate Hotel hosts country singer and rodeo girl Casey Kennett from Kurow. The Lake Hawea Hotel promises an “explosive mixture of Irish folk and pop” from Wellington’s Hob Nail Boots, while local DJs Yo! Rudi and DJ Cupboard will be on the decks in the garden bar. And for those about to rock, AC/DC covers band Sniper Alley is set to play at the Albert Town Tavern. Road closures will be in effect on New Year’s Eve, with Ardmore Street closed between Dungarvon Street and Lakeside Road, and Helwick Street closed from Ardmore Street to Dunmore Street. The closures run from 5.30pm on December 31 to 3am on January 1. An extended liquor ban also remains in place until 6am on Thursday, January 5.
Quite a crib Construction has recently been completed on this property at Paddock Bay, north-west of Glendhu Bay. The two-year project employed a large number of builders and tradespeople from the Wanaka region. PHOTO: wanaka.tv
ir All the fun of the fa
It was a two-legged, two-handed sprint for the finish in the wheelbarrow race at the Hawea Picnic Racing Club’s December 28, annual meeting on the Hawea Domain. The day usually draws a crowd of about 3000 and boasts an equalisator betting system. The racing programme included trotting events, pony events, barrel racing, jumping and a number of traditional children’s activities such sack racing and a lolly scramble. PHOTO: wanaka.tv
Chiropractor Dr John Gibson.
Results that speak for themselves Wanaka will benefit from the specialist techniques in musculoskeletal (muscle and joint) care with the services of Dr John Gibson (DC), Chiropractor, offered now at the Wanaka Lakes Health Centre. Treating the entire body for accident injuries and long term conditions, from early life through to the elderly “the compelling results speak for themselves,” says John Gibson. He explains it’s all about spending time with the patient, gathering information and correctly diagnosing the problem. It is also equally important to
perform a combination of both specific joint adjustments together with muscle release techniques for fast and effective results. These
Originally from Sydney, John had a practice in Christchurch for 10 years before moving to Wanaka with wife Brid and their four
In many instances the change is dramatic after the first treatment.
that have not been able to find answers to their problems. Dr John Gibson (DC) is an ACC provider and has recently established a clinic at the Wanaka Lakes Health Centre and Queenstown Medical Centre and is now accepting new patients at both clinics. * aDVERTORIAL
techniques take many years of experience to refine. This specific approach means most patients see significant changes with one to four treatments. “In many instances the change is dramatic after the first treatment,” explains John.
children. He holds a Bachelor of Medical Science (Honours) from the University of Sydney and studied at Macquarie University for his Masters in Chiropractic. John enjoys the challenge of patients particularly with chronic complaints
For appointments contact Wanaka Lakes Health Centre on 443 6460 and Queenstown Medical Centre 03 441 2266.
Thursday 29 December to Wednesday 04 January 2012
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Thursday 29 December to Wednesday 04 January 2012
sunnews
Tents are choice Tim Brewster Tents seem to be the accommodation of choice for Wanaka visitors these holidays with local holiday parks reporting higher numbers than usual booking camping sites and motels numbers down. Bridgit Parker of Archway Motels, president of the Wanaka Branch of the Motel Association of New Zealand, said the quakes in Christchurch had affected bookings all year. The most recent series of aftershocks had “thrown people back into safe mode”. Events in Christchurch were just one of a series of overlapping factors, including the global economic downturn and New Zealanders reducing their spending after the Rugby World Cup, leading to the worst December in ten years for motel bookings. Despite this, Bridgit remained positive. “I think the economy will continue to struggle, but farming is doing
well and we think we’re getting spin off from that. And let’s face it, 2012 has to be better than 2011.” Edgewater general manager Leigh Stock said while his bookings were stable, Wanaka was quieter in the days after Christmas that it usually would be. “Normally we get an influx from
Easy trapezey
sites with the “Y” groups of younger campers and families having their own areas. Lake Outlet Holiday Park owner Glenn Tattersall said the camp is approaching its capacity for 500 people with a number campers who normally stay in Nelson coming south because of
Let’s face it, 2012 has to be better than 2011. Christchurch during this time. January is looking strong, so maybe people are leaving it until a bit later to travel.” Lake Hawea Holiday Park manager Mike King said the number of campers in tents especially from the Southland area had increased from last year, with some large groups starting to arrive. “We’re pretty busy, the campground is definitely swelling up.” He said improvements over the past year creating more park-like grounds gave the visitors a better choice of tent
the flooding. A brand new $600,000 sewage and wastewater scheme which now connects to the town sewage instead of using septic tanks started being used just a day before Christmas and is “a dream come true” enabling the camp to plan for the future. The system is part of an overall makeover of the camp including a substantial planting programme and plans for new toilet and shower facilities.
Emma Vickers, AKA Lady Em, tests out her new freestanding aerial circus rig. Emma treated herself to the rig, which was designed and machined by Greg Von Heraud Parker of May E Machines. Before having children, Emma worked as a professional trapeze artist for 20 years, including a stint as lead aerialist with the Weber Brothers Circus. With the new rig, Emma can now offer classes from her garden in Hawea Flat, and is hoping to begin performing again.
PHOTO: wanaka.tv
Thursday 29 December to Wednesday 04 January 2012
Page 15
sunnews Mandatory registration
City gig for Senior Sergeant
Owners of cattle and deer on lifestyle blocks will face obligations under the National Animal Identification and Tracing (NAIT) scheme which is set to be mandatory for cattle from July 2012, and deer from March 2013. “While commercial beef, dairy and deer farmers are largely up to speed with what the NAIT scheme is about, anecdotal evidence tells us that not all lifestylers are,” NAIT Ltd chief executive Russell Burnard said. “Lifestylers have an important role in the success of the NAIT scheme, even though the number of cattle and deer on lifestyle blocks is relatively small.” The scheme aims to provide reliable up-to-date information on individual animal locations and movements which enables the tracing of animals that may be at risk in the event of a bio-security threat. This information will improve New Zealand’s response in the event of a bio-security threat, and enable trade to resume quickly.
Laura Williamson
To be compliant with the NAIT scheme, lifestylers need to:
Taking the plunge Joel Dean of Hawea Flat deals to the heat at a secret spot on the Clutha River.
A familiar face in a blue uniform will be absent from the streets of Wanaka for five months next year. Starting in early February, Wanaka sub-area commander Senior Sergeant Allan Grindell (pictured) will be working in Dunedin on a secondment as the Dunedin police area tactical response manager. The position, which carries the rank of Inspector, involves approaching crime and crash problems using various tools such as police tactics and community involvement. “When problems are identified, such as burglaries or students playing up, for example, you look at the
big picture and various solutions to address them,” Allan said. He will be in charge of six general duties Senior Sergeants, as well as Senior Sergeants for youth, road policing and operations planning. He said that, while he would miss being in Wanaka, he was looking forward to
PHOTO: wanaka.tv
Tag cattle and deer with NAIT-approved radio frequency identification device ear tags; register contact person and farm or property details and register cattle and deer with NAIT (from February 2012); record all off-farm movements of cattle and all deaths and losses of cattle or deer with NAIT (from July 2012).
Page 16
Thursday 29 December to Wednesday 04 January 2012
the challenge of the position. He added that he had done a similar job in Dunedin before coming to Wanaka three years ago. Allan’s biggest regret was leaving his role as coach of the Upper Clutha senior rugby side. “I’ve left them in a bit of a lurch. But I’ll be back,” he said.
sunviews editorial
TXT MESS AGE
BOARD RIP Billy, think we’re all going to miss you. Geez some people don’t have a sense of humour. Leave the santas alone - lighten up n get a life or move somewhere boring! i wish it could be chrismas every day... Congrats to Kathy Dedo on the wonderful nativity story at the Dinosaur park. Had to laugh though at not being able to find 3 wise men. Kathy did well at referring to “3 wise persons” very pc. Damien and Emma, fabulous, fantastic news on your engagement and bun in the oven!! Love you xxx To the guy who I accidently made fall off his bike at eely point. I’m so sorry, our dog was having seizures and we were racing to get him to the vet. Sorry to run out in front of you. noooooo, can’t believe sue wards has left!
The atmosphere was a bit subdued in the Wanaka Sun office this week. Sure, some of the street-level holiday cheer filtered up the escalator to us and induced a smile. But we still felt a little sad, for this week we farewelled our fearless editor Sue Wards. Truth be told, I was terrified the first day I had to work with Sue. I hadn’t met her before, but had recently seen her perform in a play, The House of Bernada Alba by Federico García Lorca. I don’t remember much of the plot, but I do remember Sue stalking about in a matriarchal highnecked collar and driving her on-stage daughters to madness and suicide. I told this story to Adam in production, and he said it did remind him of tea time at the Wanaka Sun. Apparently, Sue would only accept her cuppa if the kettle had been boiled not more than three seconds before water pourage, the tea bag had been soaked for precisely 402 seconds and the amount of milk was an exact “smidge”. “Don’t get me started on coffee,” he added. Tea aside, we will miss her professionalism, her smile and her humour in the face of computer meltdowns, staff meltdowns and summer-heat induced meltdowns of every kind. Sue, you made community journalism fun. Tally ho, Madame Editor!
Happy New Year
lookout for lycra - the challenge is coming.
The views expressed in the text board and in the Letters to the Editor are those of the author alone and not necessarily those of the Wanaka Sun.
to all our readers, texters, letter writers, photographers, contributors, advertisers and our delivery crew: Sue Saunders, the McKays, the RD contractors and Wanaka Rowing Club. Thank you for your continued support.
TXT THE WANAKA SUN
021 986 786
from all the team at the Wanaka Sun, Wanaka’s favourite local newspaper.
Thursday 29 December to Wednesday 04 January 2012
Page 17
sunclassifieds sport results
open homes
Free Text-Classifieds
Address
Time
Date
Price
11 ISLINGTON PLACE
11am
30/12/11 $689,000
28 GLENGYLE WAY
11:30am
30/12/11 $379,000
9 HEUCHAN LANE
1pm
30/12/11 Auction
64A BILLS WAY
2pm
30/12/11 Auction
12 ANDERSON ROAD
12pm
31/12/11 $399,000
5 BRIDGEWATER TERRACE, ALBERT TOWN
2pm
31/12/11 Auction
41 BODKIN STREET, LAKE HAWEA
3pm
31/12/11 Auction
26 ASPIRING TERRACE
11am
1/01/12 $850,000
1050 LAKE HAWEA ALBERT TOWN HIGHWAY, WANAKA
12pm
1/01/12 $920,000
22 MEADOWSTONE DRIVE
1pm
1/01/12 Auction
33 INFINITY DRIVE
2pm
3/01/12 $749,000
36 STUDHOLME ROAD
12pm
4/01/12 Deadline Sale
33 INFINITY DRIVE
2pm
4/01/12 $749,000
50 KELLIHER DRIVE
2pm
4/01/12 $849,000
22 MEADOWSTONE DRIVE
5pm
4/01/12 Auction
28 (LOT 202) INFINITY DRIVE
1-1.30pm
29/12/11 $785,000
33 (LOT 120) INFINITY DRIVE
1-1.30pm
29/12/11 $775,000
4 SUNNYSIDE LANE
1.30-2pm
29/12/11 $649,000
28 (LOT 202) INFINITY DRIVE
1-1.30pm
30/12/11 $785,000
33 (LOT 120) INFINITY DRIVE
1-1.30pm
30/12/11 $775,000
4 SUNNYSIDE LANE
1.30-2pm
30/12/11 $649,000
28 (LOT 202) INFINITY DRIVE
1-1.30pm
3/01/12 $785,000
33 (LOT 120) INFINITY DRIVE
1-1.30pm
3/01/12 $775,000
4 SUNNYSIDE LANE
1.30-2pm
3/01/12 $649,000
28 (LOT 202) INFINITY DRIVE
1-1.30pm
4/01/12 $785,000
33 (LOT 120) INFINITY DRIVE
1-1.30pm
4/01/12 $775,000
4 SUNNYSIDE LANE
1.30-2pm
4/01/12 $649,000
28 (LOT 202) INFINITY DRIVE
3-4pm
4/01/12 $785,000
33 (LOT 120) INFINITY DRIVE
3-4pm
4/01/12 $775,000
1212.30pm
Mortgagee 4/01/12 Auction
HARCOURTS
for sale Office chair offers and Ashford spinning wheel, chair and accessories. Phone 4437694 Surfboard 5 foot 4. Offers. Rip curl wetsuit size 12. $50. Phone 4437694
lost & found Found at Eely Point boxing day Panasonic Lumix camera. Text 0274715636 LOST MAUI JIM blue oval SUNGLASSES ON Millennium Track . Small reward . Please call Hilary 4434644 Lost PINK NIKON COOLPIX CAMERA in/ around Wanaka. Small reward. Call Hilary 4434644
services W a n a k a Pharmacy Healthy Rewards lets you earn 1 Reward point for every dollar you spend!! Great massage available over new year. Swedish deep tissue with acupressure points. certified. Evenings ok 1hr/$40. 11/4hr/$50 02102529542 Like us on Facebook. www. MetalworksWanaka. co.NZ...workshop of wonders.54 Ballantyne Rd Ph 4431760 Plumber, maintenance, drainage, spouting, free quotes & advice, call Brendan, BK Plumbing 4435727 or 0274483367 W o r ks h op Metalworks reopens 4th January. Stainless and metal expertise ...nothing fazes us...54 Ballantyne. Ph 443 1760 www. Metalworkswanaka. co.nz
services Your medical centre may be on the move but your pharmacy is still right here! Wanaka Pharmacy - serving the Upper Clutha for 40 years & here for you daily until 7pm at the top of Helwick St. Cancer Society liaison Raewyn Robertson works on Tuesdays and Wednesdays can be contacted through the Cancer Society Queenstown office on 03 442 4281 or through Community Networks Wanaka.
thank you Happy New Year to all our readers, texters, letter writers, photographers, contributors, advertisers and our delivery crew: Sue Saunders, the McKays, the RD contractors and Wanaka Rowing Club.Thank you for your continued support. from all the team at the Wanaka Sun, Wanaka’s favourite local newspaper.
Wanaka Gun Club Christmas Shoot 27/12/11: 15 target HCBD: 15 R Anderson, F McKnight, J Young. 14 J Cray, G Matheson, R Dixon, N Kelland. 15 target HCBD: 14 R Anderson, J Cray, A
Radford, N Kelland, P Morrison, R Smart, W Field, J Young. 20 Continental: 20 R Anderson, R Dixon. 19 A Radford, G Matheson. 18 F McKnight, N Kelland, P Morrison, C O’Dell.
for sale
INFINITY
LOCATIONS VILL H, 37 LAKESIDE ROAD
Structure menswear clothing shop is the friendliest most helpful shop in Wanaka. THANK YOU. Thanks santa, all the elves, Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen, Rudolf. I promise I will try and be good next year!
transport
wanted Wanted, about a cup of chickweed. If you can help, please phone 443 5530, thanks Flatmate wanted *great house *in town* one sixty negotiable 02102529542
02 20 786 778 text message only deadline Tuesday 4pm 20 word limit standard network rates apply Page 18
Thursday 29 December to Wednesday 04 January 2012
Issue 537 Thursday December 29, 2011
circulation: 12,500 Phone: 03 443 5252 Fax: 03 443 5250 Text view: 021 986 786 Text classified: 022 0786 778 Address: Top of the escalator, Spencer House, Wanaka Postal: PO Box 697, Wanaka Editor: Laura Williamson theeditor@thewanakasun.co.nz Journalist: Tim Brewster journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz Production: Adam Hall production@thewanakasun.co.nz Advertising: Jude Smith marketing@thewanakasun.co.nz Ronnie Hopkinson sales@thewanakasun.co.nz, Amanda Hodge advertising@thewanakasun.co.nz Office Supervisor: Ruth Bolger admin@thewanakasun.co.nz Printed by: Guardian Print, Ashburton Delivered by: Wanaka Rowing Club Published by: Wanaka Sun (2003) Ltd
sunclassifieds trades&services TREE services
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
construction
project MANAGEMENT
panelbeaters
CURTAINS
Thursday 29 December to Wednesday 04 January 2012
Page 19
sunsport
Life’s a breeze at the Garett Shore of Wanaka took advantage of strong winds jibing. here d picture is he y, Outlet last Tuesda
PHOTO: wanaka.tv
Christmas super six Laura Williamson Almost 80 people braved the heat last Tuesday to take part in the second annual Super Six Cricket event at the Wanaka Showgrounds. Albion Cricket Club president Mike O’Connor said it was a “fantastic day”, with some teams who miss e d o u t o n t h e finals opting to play on after the competition had finished, despite already having played for more than six hours. The competition had two divisions, “social” and “really social” Mike said. Competitors were
Page 20
graded according to their results in the regular six-a-side games leading up to Christmas. The winner of the
people who had turned up to watch and help out with short-handed teams. The day was a joint venture between the
The competition had two divisions, “social” and “really social”. social grade was The Goats, captained by Daniel Edwards from Makarora. The really social division was won by Bits and Pieces under captain Alex Dixon, a side put together at the last minute comprising six
Albion Cricket Club and the Upper Clutha Rugby Club. Mike said, “Deans Hudson from Upper Clutha Rugby Club did a sterling job with the bar, the food and after match.” He said most of the players were already keen for
Ride and run The Southern Muster Sky Run and Sky Ride will be held this Tuesday January 3 on the Snow Farm cross country trails. Since taking over the event organisation in 2009, event director Adrian Bailey has incorporated several options to cater for different levels of ability. “My whole objective is to provide sporting events for everyone,” he said. The event includes 5km and 10km walks, a half marathon run, and mountain bike rides at 21km and 30km long. It is the first of a series of events taking place in Wanaka in January as part of the Summerdaze Festival.
The challenge is on Twenty-four professionals have signed up for next month’s Challenge Wanaka making it the strongest field ever with more than 40 percent of competitors coming from overseas. Challenge Wanaka organiser, Victoria Murray – Orr said the event will also be much easier to follow this year, with cameras on a helicopter and motorbikes providing a live feed to a “monster” screen on Pembroke Park.
Thursday 29 December to Wednesday 04 January 2012