29 Nov - 5 Dec 2018 | Edition 898

Nature column

INSIDE THIS WEEK Views: Page 13 Jobs: Page 15 Sport: Page 16

A word from F&B.

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MAC Senior Prizegiving Students celebrated at the end of year ceremony.

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EDITION 898

Six month plan to ditch plastic bags Allison McLean

journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz

W

anaka Wastebusters staff are thrilled about New Zealand Minister for the Environment Eugenie Sage’s leadership to ban single-use plastic bags nationwide, considering the news a big win and step in the right direction. The recently announced plastic pollution mandatory ban will come into effect towards mid-2019 and will require all retailers to comply with the six-month phase out of plastic shopping bags under 70 microns.

Wastebusters communications manager Gina Dempster said their community-owned enterprise, which works towards zero waste, is thrilled that oxo-degradable, biodegradable and compostable bags are also included within the ban. The only exception to the new rule are lightweight bags made of synthetic fabric and designed for long-life multiple use.

Sage’s statement to New Zealand, which recently signed up to the New Plastics Economy Global Commitment, followed a five-week public consultation process, where 92 percent of submitters supported the proposed phase out.

PHOTO: Ruth Blunt/Wanaka Sun “Wastebusters has been working for Volunteer firefighters Ethan French, Tamati Gurau-Reynolds and Sam Jenkin were first out of the gate in the end of single-use plastic bags since the Hobby Horse Derby at Hawea Flat School’s country fair on Saturday. The three Lake Hawea Volunteer the start of the millennium, so we see Fire Brigade crew members were however pipped at the post in a dramatic finish which saw outside chance this move as well overdue. We're really excited to be able to move on to new Raihania Chadwick “come out of nowhere” to clinch victory.

campaigns to reduce waste going to landfill. We really support the move by the hospitality industry in Wanaka to remove take-away cups; that would be a great next step now that we've gotten rid of single-use plastic bags” said Dempster.

Sage said single-use plastic bags are often the most common items found in beach clean-ups that are polluting coastal and marine environments and causing serious harm to marine life.

“I have also set out a work programme to tackle our wider-waste issues, which includes expanding the waste disposal levy to all landfills, improving our national data on waste and resource recovery, investing more strategically in infrastructure and innovation to support resource recovery, and developing a national circular economy strategy to design waste out of the system,” said Sage.

Dempster told the Wanaka Sun the statement is encouraging. “We're seeing a real shift in attitudes towards waste. People are sick of throwing out so much rubbish, and they can see the impact that plastic waste is having on our oceans. We hope that this ban on single-use shopping bags is the start of push back against disposable items which have such a high cost to the environment.”

The date for the single-use plastic bag ban to come into effect will be known once regulations are considered by the Cabinet of New Zealand in December.

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MAC seniors celebrate school year Ollie Blyth

Junior Reporter

The words ‘school prizegiving’ generally conjure up images of a boiling hot school hall, hands red from being over-clapped, and long, monotonous speeches. But it was quite the contrary at the Mount Aspiring College senior school prizegiving last Friday night, with the college community coming together in celebration of a successful school year.

Announced at the event were multiple awards including highest class achievers, national and international achievements and prestigious scholarships.

These scholarships, when added together, have a net value of $150,000 and had been donated by many local businesses, Trusts, and families.

Ranging from leadership to aviation, students from all areas of college life were acknowledged.

Also awarded were the premier awards, which recognised the highest achievers in Year 13. They went to Zachary Kaye (dux), Hannah McNabb (proxime accessit), Bella Fraser (best all round girl) and Sam Coupland (best all round boy).

Head girl Bella Fraser attained excellence levels in sport, service, and academics during her college life. In

her speech as head girl, she said, “I believe we all begin at zero… just get off the couch and win.”

For the Year 13 cohort, it was more than just the awards ceremony, it was also about saying goodbye to MAC. Some of the group had attended the college for seven years and were now leaving Wanaka to pursue their futures.

Max Hall, the 2018 head boy, spoke to the assembly of how, “it is not the classrooms…it is not the bell…it is the people. Everyone seated here tonight - parents, siblings, mentors - they are the reason why saying goodbye will be so hard.”

Separating the awards segments were four musical performances, as well as a welcome from the MAC Haka group (pictured). This represented that MAC is a unique school, in that for its students, school is not always about academics. As put by Year 11 student, Kiera Gray, who was recognised with a high achievement academic award: “At MAC especially we have a large variety of students who achieve highly in multiple aspects at school and extracurricular activities.”

The junior students will also be celebrating the school year with their prizegiving this week.

A NOTE ABOUT WANAKA POOL Thanks again to everyone who has taken the time to provide feedback on use of the learn-to-swim pool at Wanaka Recreation Centre, especially on weekends. We do recognise the importance of casual visits and ‘family fun’ as well as structured classes. In response we have reviewed our current arrangements, taking this feedback on board and balancing it both with the needs of existing groups and times when the learn-to-swim pool is relatively quiet.

We have been trialling two programmes this term which have been designed and timed specifically to provide opportunities for members of the community who had previously been underserved in the region. We’ll continue to run ‘Bubble Time’ – a baby and toddler class for working parents – and a separate class for people (mainly children) with disabilities at their current times on Sunday mornings until their scheduled end date of 9 December.

Even with these group visits and kids’ swim classes provided by both local providers, the learn-to-swim pool is free for public use for the majority of the weekend.

We generally have no swim classes planned from the end of Term 4 until the start of Term 1 but we do organise fun activities such as inflatables which take place mostly in the lap pool. If we do receive bookings over the school holidays we’ll manage them in a way that gives other customers maximum space to enjoy their time at the pools.

So here’s a summary of weekend times when the learn-to-swim pool is fully available for public swimming and family fun: SATURDAYS – currently no classes or groups between 8.00-9.00am and 1.00-8.00pm SUNDAYS – currently no classes or groups between 8.00-9.00am and 12.30-8.00pm.

We have some activities in the lap pool on weekends (e.g. inflatables) with multiple lanes always available for lap swimmers.

Don’t forget you can view the Wanaka pool timetable for the current week via this handy link https://bit.ly/2A78Bcb to help you plan your visit in advance. You can also call us anytime on 03 443 9334 to check how busy the pools are before you set out.

Thanks again,

Jason Lawless

Wanaka Recreation Centre Manager.

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PHOTOs: supplied

MAC Senior Prizegiving ACADEMIC AWARDS Year 11 Highest achievement: Abigail Winter (geography, science, English), Siena Shotwell (visual art, drama), Ben McNabb (mathematics, computing), James Suddaby (history), Oli Prince (woodwork), Laura Neale (food and nutrition), Annika Gibson (Spanish), Michael Gealogo (physical education), Ryan Schmack (spatial and product design), Estelle Norman (music), Ruby Burke (economics and business), Molly Baverstock (outdoor pursuits), Olivia Vuleta (Maori). High achievement: Abigail Winter (mathematics, music), Jessie McKenzie (science, mathematics), Maddy Thompson (physical education, science), Siena Shotwell, Kiera Gray, Jaimee Vink, Annika Gibson (English), Ben McNabb, Jack Findlay (science), Ruby Burke (visual art), Charlie Holmes (mathematics), Jono Watson (economics and business) Liam Kemp (outdoor pursuits). Special awards: Liam Kemp (Treble Cone scholarship), Ben McNabb (mathematics scholarship).

ACADEMIC AWARDS Year 12 Highest achievement: Hayley Yule (economics, geography, English), Olivia Bates (visual art photography, visual art design), Ruth Bennie (Spanish, biology), Peta McKay (food and nutrition, mathematics with statistics), Stellar Nepia (history, drama), James Watherston (mathematics with calculus, physics), Angus Harraway (mechanical engineering), Billy Sandri (music), Flynn Rosie (Maori), Heidi Niederer (tourism), Jack Harker (woodwork), Jamie Toomey (outdoor pursuits), Tyler Greeks (visual art painting), Jesse Robertson (chemistry), Robbie Craig (spatial and product design), Annabel Fairbairn (physical education), Sam Teal (business), Tom Scott (computer studies), Molly Todd (agri-business), Shea Williams (gateway), Ella James (pathways). High achievement: Olivia Bates (English, business), Otto Burrows (outdoor pursuits, physics, English), Billy Sandri (chemistry, mathematics), Jaime Toepfer (biology, distance learning), Jessie Fothergill (English), Jordan Fox (outdoor pursuits).

ACADEMIC AWARDS Year 13 Highest achievement: Hannah McNabb (chemistry, biology, mathematics with calculus), Bella Fraser (geography, Spanish), Zachary Kaye (economics), Dara Beattie-Johnson (history, drama), Holly Wigg (visual art painting), Gregor Findlay (spatial and product design, physical education), Erica Ayres (food and nutrition), Annabelle Treacy (visual art design), Luci McDougall (visual art photography), Joe Strawson (physics, mathematics and statistics), Emilie Barnett (business and enterprise), Sam Howard (agribusiness), Riley Christie (music), Nicholas Boyne (gateway), Marli Reyta (tourism), Manu Barnard (English), Joshua Rogan (design technology), Olivia Johnstone (mathematics with statistics),

THURSDAY 29.11.18 - WEDNESDAY 05.12.18

Tom Rizzi (computer studies), Wilfred Spearing (outdoor pursuits), Dara Beattie-Johnson (drama). High achievement: Phoebe Young (biology, English), Hannah McNabb (physics, mathematics), Zachary Kaye (chemistry), Maggie Little (business and enterprise), Lucas Buckley (physical education), Kate Binns (geography).

Special awards: Dara Beattie-Johnson (historical records), Emilie Barnett (senior language).

PREMIER SPORTS AWARDS: Erica Ayres (fairplay), Zoi Sadowski-Synnott (girls sports), Gregor Findlay (boys sports).

NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS National: Bella Fraser (orienteering), Aden Cassaidy, Joel Suddaby, Madi Gainsford (kayaking), Ronan Thompson (snowboarding), Campbell Wright (cross country skiing), Phoebe Garland (skiing). National and International: James Suddaby (kayaking), Zoi Sadowski-Synnott, Rory Johns (snow-boarding), Ben Harrington, Kate Richards, Alistair Garland, Howard Smith, Maggie Little, Chloe McMillan, Manu Barnard (skiing), Meg Harraway (waterskiing), Holly Wigg (karate), Phoebe Young (cycling and mountain-biking), Natalie Mitchell (triathlon).

CULTURAL AWARDS: Flynn Rosie (Te Korowai o te Maatauranga), Casey Scurr (drama), Leo Munro-Heward (performing arts), Rory Johns (music), Eliza Rogers (art).

SERVICE AWARDS Mel Telford, Kate Binns, Emily Simpkin, Erica Ayres, Stirling Deaton, Sonya Palmer, Jessica Curtis, Greer Porter, Bella Richardson, Alicia Stock, Bella Fraser, Sam Coupland, Tilly Hoffman-Wall, Toby Balls, Simone Johnson, Ashdon Reid, Pyper Turner, Gregor Findlay, Claudia Wilkinson, Wilfred Spearing, Mitchell Collett, Kenzie Muir, Nadia McNeilly, Casey Scurr, Sam Pearce, Hannah McNabb, Millie Heine, Chester Neill, Bowen Greenaway, Madi Mulqueen, Sampson Mollan, Riley Christie (students in the community with distinction). Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award: Libby Bron, Emily Heath, Oliver Thomas (bronze), Aimee McArthur, Olive Pujol, Siena Shotwell, Ben McNabb, Meg Weedon, Mila Arnerich (silver), Millie Heine, Simone Johnson, Sam Coupland, Erica Ayres (house), Olivia Johnstone (top hosteller), Lena Peter (top international student), Riley Christie, Erica Ayres, Shenee Pryde (special recognition), Maggie Little (student council recognition), Luci McDougall (whole- hearted contribution).

SCHOLARSHIPS: Ruth Bennie, Amy Richards (leadership), Kenzie Muir (medical), Jake Nicholson (hospitality), Madi Mulqueen, Gregor Findlay, Bella Fraser, Emilie Barnett, Simone Johnson, Julius Staufenberg (leadership and rolemodel), Hannah McNabb (engineering), Leo Munro-Heward (music), Dara Beattie-Johnson (law), James Beere (aviation).

PREMIER AWARDS: Zachary Kaye (dux), Hannah McNabb (proxime accessit), Bella Fraser (best all round girl), Sam Coupland (best all round boy).

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Bicycle lane improvements

PHOTO: Terry Hetherington

Newcastle Track stays open despite worsening erosion ALLISON MCLEAN

journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz

Upper Clutha bicycle riders and walkers will need to take extra caution when accessing parts of Newcastle Track near Luggate as last week’s storm water has resulted in further erosion of an already major slip on the track. A local man, Terence (Terry) Hetherington, observed the recent washout and alerted others by posting photos of the area onto Facebook.

A geotechnical report last August for Otago Regional Council (ORC) includes a July 2018 commissioned study by ORC and describes large scale gully erosion on a terrace face on the north bank of the Clutha/Mata-Au River, which is called Reko’s Bluff. This area has been gradually changing since 2015, but the issue has worsened after recent major rainfall, including the steep gravel cliffs eroding and two alluvial fans forming in the river, which have damaged parts of the Newcastle Track.

The riverbank area is controlled by the Department of Conservation (DOC) and remains open.

ORC’s natural hazards acting manager, Ben Mackey, said “ORC has not inspected the site following last week’s rain, and management of the track itself sits with DOC. It is our understanding that the land owners are currently looking at options to minimise any further erosion.”

DOC senior ranger Annette Grieve could not be reached for comment by the time this week’s paper went to print.

The former tussock grassland, which once acted as a sponge to retain rainfall, was converted to pasture grasses in 2014. The current landowners installed irrigators in 2018, which reportedly have the potential to exacerbate erosion. The long-term impacts of the Reko’s Bluff washouts on the Clutha River ecosystem are said to be unknown.

Pictured: Recent heavy rainfall has washed out areas of Newcastle Track near Luggate.

Dungarvon Street will get a second traffic island in the new year. The crossing point will be located near the intersection with Brownston Street and is currently in the design stage.

A QLDC spokesperson said they expect construction to begin in January 2019.

PAINTBALL PAINTBALL CENTRAL CENTRAL

PHOTO: Wanaka Sun

journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz

Line marking has recently finished to help complete and seperate the bicycle lane on Aubrey Road between Anderson Road and Kings Drive in Wanaka. The minor improvement project was subsidised by the New Zealand Transport Agency with the work split into two stages with the first being completed a few months ago.

Wanaka electricity upgrade completed ALLISON MCLEAN

journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz

A major upgrade to Wanaka’s electricity supply officially opened yesterday after two years of work and more than four years of planning.

Aurora Energy’s newly completed Riverbank Road Substation, located opposite of Wastebusters, will improve the reliability of electricity supplies to customers and connect those supplies to new homes, farms and businesses.

The new substation will provide a hub for the high-voltage supply into Wanaka and surrounding areas, add capacity to the existing Wanaka substation and will be able to reroute the supply in the event of a fault.

The region’s $10.5 million project kicked off in 2014, which covered building a new switching substation to take power from the national grid in Cromwell and supply it to the Wanaka and Camp Hill substations; a 66,000 volt underground cable was also installed to connect to the Wanaka substation.

The project’s final upgrade included replacing existing overhead power line poles with 14 taller power lines along

Riverbank Road, between Ballantyne Road and State Highway 6, to guide the overhead lines into the new substation.

The poles’ additional height will help provide safe clearance for the higher 33,000 to 66,000 volt lines.

Aurora Energy CEO, Richard Fletcher, said the project will improve the security of supply for Wanaka and will allow future capacity upgrades.

“The Wanaka upgrade is one of several network additions we are making to cater for future growth and ensure continuing safe and reliable power supply for the local community.”

Fletcher thanked everyone involved in the project, with a nod to project partners Electronet, Delta and Fulton Hogan. Queenstown Lakes District Councillor and Wanaka Community Board member Ross McRobie officiated at the substation’s opening event and cut the ribbon to declare it officially opened.

Aurora Energy, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dunedin City Holdings Limited, is the country’s seventh largest electricity network by customer connections and supplies electricity to homes in Central Otago, Queenstown Lakes and Dunedin.

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The same project plan includes investigation of design options and possible sealing of the Aubrey Road unsealed bicycle path between Anderson Road and Gunn Road, which is not programmed to start until late in the financial year.

A Queenstown Lakes District Council spokesperson said any physical works to the latter project within this financial year would be subject to securing additional funding.

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PAGE 3

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OPEN DAY!

Saturday 1 December, 10.30am–12.30pm Bannockburn Road Campus, Cromwell (Enter via Richards Beach Road)

Trades Facility Opening – 10.30am

Visit our campus in the heart of the Central Otago community for a fun day for all the family.

Carpentry House Auction – 12pm

Ag Equipment Display, lambs & Doug the Dog

Rough Rock Brewery – Official Opening & Tours

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Orchard & Vineyard Tours Outdoor Education Team Building Activities

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Thousands raised for new hall Ruth Blunt

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

Tasmin van Riel sang “Echo”, a new song written by her aunt Anna van Riel.

Photo: Ruth Blunt/Wanaka Sun

Hundred of people attended Hawea Flat School’s fourth country fair on Saturday, November 24.

The event, held every two years, featured a range of activities and entertainment including live music, the inaugural Hobby Horse Derby as well as real-life pony rides, Devonshire cream teas, plus the students created lots of handmade goodies to sell.

Five teachers were dunked in the school pool from a specially constructed “dunker”, and the fair ended with a silent auction “The PTA was absolutely stoked with the school fair on Saturday, the weather was beautiful, no wind or rain until 2pm which was just fine,” HFS Parent Teacher Association member Emily Sancha said.

About $15,000 was raised on the day which will all go towards the new school hall.

Anna van Riel got the kids singing along to songs from her new album.

Photo: Ruth Blunt/Wanaka Sun

The under-10s took on the Hobby Horse Derby course.

Photo: Ruth Blunt/Wanaka Sun

HFS principal Sue Heath was one of five staff Jake and Estelle Brewster took a ride in Thomas the Tank Engine, members dunked to raise funds for the new hall. a converted lawnmower.

Photo: Ruth Blunt/Wanaka Sun Photo: Anna Scott Walker Photography

QLDC opens one set of local doors ALLISON MCLEAN

journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz

The Upper Clutha community will soon access Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) customer service at a one-stop shop location.

The council’s Ardmore Street office will open to customers on December 20 after a several months of remodeling, including a layout reconfiguration and the purchase of two relocatable buildings; all projects are scheduled to be completed by end of February 2019.

“While our initial aim was to complete all of the planned refurbishments in time for all staff to move back to Ardmore Street in early December, due to project delays, we have had to adapt our time frame and approach,” said QLDC property director Richard Pope.

Additional QLDC Wanaka staff will temporarily work from Lake Wanaka Centre starting in the New Year until

THE WANAKA SUN

the relocatable buildings are installed and fitted out.

“Since this temporary space will not be a customer-facing office, the level of service the community will receive will not be affected,” said Pope.

He said the QLDC team is completing the building consent process and will communicate the final project completion dates, including the building’s temporary public car park closure, as soon as possible.

The public can temporarily park at the Wanaka showgrounds starting early next month.

“We recognise the importance of having a presence in the Wanaka central business district and the convenience this offers to locals. So we are doing everything we can to get back as soon as possible with the least amount of disturbance to the community and surrounding businesses,” said Pope.

Pictured: The doors of QLDC’s local one-stop shop on Ardmore Street will open soon.

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Count down to panto season STAFF REPORTER

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

The Wanaka Pantomimers have started rehearsing for its annual community panto being held just before Christmas.

This year’s panto “Jac (who is resilient) and the Beansprouts” promises to be the same as last year's, but different.

The 2017 show was described in Theatreview as ticking “all the panto boxes: over-the-top costumes, singing and dancing, cross-dressing dames, audience interaction, local themes and endless jokes of mixed quality… with gales and groans of laughter.”

The team behind last year's panto have joined forces again this year: Gilly Pugh will direct the show and the script has been penned by local writer and poet Liz Breslin.

Breslin said she had fun playing with the story.

“Fairy tales are plain weird when you think about them,” Breslin said.

“There’s all this stuff in them we’d never actually want our children to do. Accept magic beans from a stranger? What’s up with that?”

“Jac (who is resilient) and the Beansprouts” will be performed at the Lake Wanaka Centre from December 19-22.

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Fines wiped for food donations Ruth Blunt

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

For those of you with hefty overdue fines at the library, now is the time to wipe the slate clean.

The Queenstown Lakes District Libraries annual Food for Fines amnesty is now on which means in exchange for non-perishable goods your fines will be forgiven.

For every item donated, $5 will be waived from the balance of fines. All food items donated in the Upper Clutha will be passed on to Community Networks.

Only overdue fines are eligible, other fees such as lost, damaged or DVD charges cannot be waived with donations.

PHOTO: Wanaka Sun

NATURE - A monthly column by your local branch of Forest and Bird

Beech trees and their billions of seeds When I go for a walk in a beech forest – like strolling down to Blue Pools or hiking up to Rob Roy Glacier – with the tree trunks in shadow, moss-covered forest floor, and cool damp air, the forest seems ancient, and a little foreboding. These are not unreasonable feelings when you realise beech trees have been around for 80 million years, and when you learn of the carnage that happens in these forests.

Beech trees differ from most plants in producing abundant seeds only every 3-4 years in what’s called a ‘mast’, a truly amazing event with some 50 million seeds falling per hectare of forest. A beech mast in Mt Aspiring National Park, for example, may leave 10 billion seeds on the forest floor.

And this is where the trouble begins.

Rather than watching this natural wonder in awe, when beech forests mast we witness what could be described as a plague descending on our native birds.

Unfortunately, rats and mice love beech seeds, and with 250kg of seeds spread across every hectare of forest floor, rodent populations explode. And when there are lots of rodents, there are also lots of the

things like stoats that eat them. When the seeds are gone, rodent populations crash and the stoats and remaining rats switch to killing our native birds.

Mast years are triggered by temperature: when a summer is warmer than the preceding one, a mast will occur the following spring. This coming season there will be a beech mast. It is predicted to be the most widespread and therefore most damaging to native birds in many decades.

The trees have already flowered, seeds will fall in autumn and stoats and rats will switch to killing native birds next spring.

Unless we do something, that is.

DOC undertakes large-scale operations to reduce the impacts of these plagues, and community groups like Forest and Bird help by running predator trapping lines in sensitive areas. Without this helping hand from us humans - who upset the system in the first place - our iconic birds like mohua, kãkã and kãkãriki will be lost forever.

So the next time you go for a walk in a beech forest, pause for a moment and think about how incredible these places are, and about our role in restoring some balance to the beech forest.

PHOTO: H Crews

You can help. Volunteer with Forest and Bird and join our efforts to protect native birds and ‘give nature a voice’, or join one of the many other local groups doing the same. Contact: Ben Goddard 027 9000 768; centralotagolakes. branch@forestandbird.org.nz.

Pictured: The mohua, or yellow head, is an Endangered species found only in the South Island. During a mast year up to 90% of mohua will be killed by predators if action is not taken to protect them.

– Ross Sinclair

Wastebusters aims to bring back container recycling refunds ALLISON MCLEAN

journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz

Wanaka Wastebusters gave away cash for recycling to support the Kiwi Bottle Drive national day of action on Tuesday. During two hours that afternoon, every customer who recycled a drink bottle or can at the recycling centre received a refund of 10 cents as well as a chance to sign a petition to bring back recycling refunds for bottles and cans.

Tuesday’s bottle drive also provided Wastebusters with the opportunity to test out the community’s interest for a recycling refund scheme for bottles and cans. "It's the easiest petition I've every asked people to sign," said Wastebusters communications manager Gina Dempster.

"No one seems to remember why we got rid of recycling refunds for bottles and cans in the 1980s, but everyone wants to bring them back. I've heard lots of great stories from people about what they used to do with the money they collected, from buying jet planes at the dairy to saving up with their brother for their first pony."

PAGE 6

Dempster said a handling fee would be included in the scheme to help cover the recycling costs, which would make it easier for recycling depots to get through times when the market for recycling materials bottoms out.

She said the key to making a recycling refund scheme work is to have a variety of depots and container drop-off locations for bottles and cans including reversevending machines. “The impact of bringing in recycling refunds for beverage containers would be significant. Many people don't realise we only recycle about 40 percent of our beverage containers.

States in Australia with recycling refunds recycle over 80 percent of their beverage containers. It's pretty hard to argue against those statistics, especially because many of the bottles not getting recycled are plastic and might end up in the oceans.”

Wastebusters is one of many organisations, including Kiwi Bottle Drive, Auckland council and the Zero Waste Network, that are working together to bring a container depositrefund scheme back to New Zealand. The

THURSDAY 29.11.18 - WEDNESDAY 05.12.18

PHOTO: Gina Dempster

petition will be available to sign in the Wastebusters shop this week as well as on the Wastesbusters website.

Pictured: Eva Weir, visiting from Christchurch, dropping off some bottles for recycling.

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Creating a buzz about STEM

PHOTO: Wanaka Sun

'Scruffy lawn' concerns resident Ruth Blunt

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

An Albert Town resident has accused Queenstown Lakes District Council of “not doing their bit” by failing to maintain parks and reserves in the area.

His property looks out over the small reserve on the corner of Mallard and Sorrel streets, which he said looked like a “scruffy lawn, with grass three foot high”.

“I’m a bit frustrated actually. I’ve rung the council

twice now to come and mow it and they haven’t.”

A council spokesperson told the Wanaka Sun “the reserve in question was land vested with council but was unfortunately missed from our maintenance schedule.

“We’ve now had this added and it will be maintained twice a month.”

QLDC’s schedule for reserves is established using four levels - Natural, Local, Community and High Profile - and this is done based on land use, facilities present as well as a number of other factors.

A beautiful and fragrant fundraiser STAFF REPORTER

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

It’s peony season and students from MAC are making the most of it. Desperate to raise another $10,000 before their Get2Go event in mid December, the adventure racers will be selling peonies outside Black Peak Gelato, corner of Ardmore and Helwick Street, each Friday for the next two weeks. All peonie lovers are invited to come and buy six stems for $15 from the courtyard.

The Mount Aspiring College Year 10 Get2Go team have qualified for the National Get2Go, a five-day challenge at the Hillary Outdoors marine base on

Great Barrier Island in mid-December. Now in its 14th year, the Get2Go Challenge comprises a series of fun multisport regional events, for Year 9 and 10 students from all levels of fitness and experience, culminating in a national Grand Final for qualifying participants.

“We want our amazing town of Wanaka to support us and help power us there,” Team member, Jack Liddell said. “We'd love every business in Wanaka to get behind us and support us by way of a donation.”

Whether $2, $20 or $200, all donations will power the team to the finals. Donations can be deposited into the school bank account number: 03 1739 0027820 00 with the reference Get2Go. Alternatively, fill your home with peonies from the team stall on Friday.

PHOTO: supplied

STAFF REPORTER

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

A new in-school programme - The Wonder Project - is set to go nationwide next year and local schools are invited to get involved.

Engineering New Zealand’s The Wonder Project is all about getting young Kiwis excited about a career in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).

Chief executive of Engineering New Zealand, Susan Freeman-Greene, said now is a better time than ever to sign up to the project.

“In New Zealand, there is a massive skills shortfall in STEM - we simply don’t have enough young people pursuing careers in these fields. The Wonder Project aims to change that - taking our Kiwi kids on a creative, dynamic and, most importantly, fun STEM journey.”

The Wonder Project includes

three successive programmes, with participating schools supported by a team of industry professionals, from the likes of Rocket Lab, Air New Zealand and various engineering organisations around New Zealand.

“We call this amazing team our Wonder Project Ambassadors. They take an hour or so out of their working week to help teachers, mentor students on The Wonder Project journey, and inspire them to achieve similar feats,” Freeman-Green said.

Engineering New Zealand has a goal of reaching over 200 schools across the country in The Wonder Project’s inaugural year. STEM professionals and school representatives can register their interest at www.wonderproject.nz.

Pictured: A pilot scheme involving 22 schools in the Wonder Project Rocket Challenge had students in Year 5-8 designing, building, refining and launching a water rocket.

new reporting tool Nominations open for Teaching Council Police’s STAFF REPORTER STAFF REPORTER

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

Candidate nominations for seven members of the new Teaching Council Board are now open, with elections being held in March next year.

In September, the Government passed legislation changing the organisation’s name from the Education Council to the Teaching Council, and returning to teachers the right to elect members to its board. The Teaching Council is an independent organisation representing teachers from early childhood education through to primary and secondary, in English and Māori medium schools.

It promotes good teaching practice and provides registration and disciplinary functions.

“The profession has been rightly demanding a

Jacqui would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous new year

Jacqui Dean MP for Waitaki

return to have a say in how their profession is run, so it’s important for teachers to nominate candidates and vote in these elections,” Education Minister Chris Hipkins said.

“In the last elections of the old Teachers Council, there was only a 14 percent turnout. These elections are too important for teachers not to have their voices heard.

“Teachers will elect board members from across the profession: a teacher and principal from the both the primary and secondary schools, a teacher and leader from Early Childhood Education, and a teacher educator.”

Voting will take place from March 4 to 26, 2019.

“Following the elections, I will appoint a further six members to the Board,” Hipkins said.

Nominations close on January 25, 2019.

Two for one Tuesdays are on at Alchemy

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

NZ Police now have a new online tool which can be used to report lost property and property damage.

The current offering is being run as a trial, though Police plans to expand the service so people can make other non-emergency reports online.

“We aspire to be the world’s safest country and have the trust and confidence of all. To achieve this, our commitment to service must be central to everything we do. Online reporting is part of our plan to transform the services we provide to the public,” said Assistant Commissioner: Service,

Jevon McSkimming.

“We want New Zealanders to be able to connect with us anywhere, anytime. Digital technologies present new opportunities for us to provide new and improved ways to access and receive policing services.”

The public will still be able to make reports through their local police stations or over the phone.

To access Online Reporting go to www.police.govt.nz.

Wanaka Police have again this week reminded people that its lost property bin is overflowing. So if you’ve lost something in Wanaka head along to the Ballantyne Road station and see if it has been handed in.

Wanaka Skin Cancer Clinic

two for one on all mains from 4pm book online or phone 443 2040

For an appointment with Jacqui, please phone (03) 434-7325 or 0800 6792 48254 (mp waitaki) or email: waitaki.mp@parliament.govt.nz

Comprehensive skin checks now available with one of our accredited GPs trained in skin cancer management.

Remember to slip, slop, slap and wrap. ph: (03) 443 0710 www.WanakaMedical.co.nz

Funded by Parliamentary Service and authorised by Jacqui Dean MP, 127 Thames Street, Oamaru.

Open from 8am till late daily

THE WANAKA SUN

THURSDAY 29.11.18 - WEDNESDAY 05.12.18

Excellence in General Practice PAGE 7

Sun News

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Open invitation to AFC’s drop-in session

PHOTO: supplied

Ruth Blunt

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

For the last year, local families who face difficult issues at home have benefitted from more social support.

Anglican Family Care (AFC), a charitable trust offering free social services to children and their families throughout Otago, has been offering services in Wanaka for one year this month.

AFC expanded its services for vulnerable children and families into rural areas of Otago last year, and increased the reach of its HomeBased Family Support and Family Start programmes. They work alongside parents to ensure their children are safe, healthy and happy, and also work

with pregnant mums, as well as parents of babies and children of all ages.

An AFC spokesperson said they receive referrals from a variety of sources, including Oranga Tamariki, midwives, nurses, GPs, schools, police, other helping agencies and families themselves.

“We work with and support all people, regardless of their beliefs.”

One year on, they are marking the occasion with a drop-in session at the Plunket rooms, 51 Ardmore Street, from 11am - 12.30pm today (November 29).

“We are inviting the community to come by for a cup of tea or coffee, meet the team, and see what we do.”

Pictured: Anglican Family Care have been providing support for families in Wanaka for the last year.

PHOTO: Wendy Bowie

Alice and all that jazz Emma Conyngham

newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

JOHN BERTRAND (COLLECTABLES) LTD

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WANAKA

Also on Monday 3 December at

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editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

Music education in Wanaka is flourishing as evidenced by the fantastic results achieved by local students who took music exams in Trinity College and Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music Exam boards.

Over the last few months the students have been put through their paces by local music teachers Ann-Marie Lake, Johanna Hansen, Naomi Carleton, Liz Ritchie and Helen Carter. The majority of them took piano exams, but theory, guitar, flute, clarinet, saxophone and violin were also represented.

End of year results: Arnaud MacKenzie grade initial piano (Distinction), Aria Winter piano grade 2 (Distinction), Tommy Cotter piano initial (Distinction), Grace Thomas piano grade 1 (Distinction), Eli McArthur piano initial (Pass), Ben Hilton piano grade 1 (Merit), Molly Phillips initial piano (Pass), Erica Hudson grade 1 piano (Pass), Jessica Parker initial piano (Merit), Isabel Sheehan grade 2 piano (Merit), Alexi Sheehan initial piano (Distinction), Lola Ritchie grade 2 piano (Merit), Rhian Telfer grade 2 piano (Distinction), Laila Telfer - grade initial piano (Distinction), Hannah

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Students make the grade STAFF REPORTER

St Andrews Church Conference Room, 96 Tenby Place.

Tues 4 December 2 pm to 4 pm

JBL

Dance Wanaka celebrated the conclusion of a successful year at the Lake Wanaka Centre last Saturday with many little twinkle toes doning their tiaras and stage makeup for a wonderful production of Alice in Wonderland. For many girls and boys it’s a requisite childhood rite of passage; costumes, lights, music - and jazz hands! Backstage was abuzz and the squealing excitement levels amongst some of the smaller performers reached a fevered voluminous pitch causing some of the volunteer mums* (*ahem, me) to quietly reach for the gin by half time.

Studio Director, Anna Thomas, and her teaching staff had spent the last few months drilling the students through the two-hour show and it all paid off with a seamless performance from the

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baby ballerinas through to the teenage hiphoppers. Toes were pointed, stomachs were in and shoulders were back; and whilst teaching threeyear-olds a dance routine can be a bit like herding feral cats, the Dance Wanaka teachers pulled off a co-ordinated coup.

The prize-giving at the end of the show saw a clean sweep of junior awards to Grace Thomas who took out top marks in ballet, jazz, hip-hop and contemporary whilst the senior awards were battled out between Holly Gibson and Tayla Doran.

But the biggest honours were the “Top Tier” awards which recognised the top five percent of exam marks throughout Asia and the Pacific - these dancers show real promise as budding dancers on tomorrow’s stage: Laura Neale, Holly Gibson, Grace Thomas and Cienna Hearle.

Pictured: Senior Students of Dance Wanaka in Alice in Wonderland.

THURSDAY 29.11.18 - WEDNESDAY 05.12.18

Thomas grade initial piano (Distinction), Bayne Deaton grade 1 piano (Distinction), Saffron Millar piano grade 1 (Pass), Bryne Bloxham grade 1 piano (Merit), Matilda Metcalfe grade 2 Jazz piano (Merit), Abby McArthur grade 3 piano (Merit) and grade 4 piano (Merit), Isobel Smith grade 5 piano (Merit), Lillian Eastwood-grade 3 piano (Distinction), Estelle Norman- grade 7 piano (Distinction), Maude Rogers guitar grade 3 (Pass), George Holland plectrum guitar grade 2 (Pass), Stella Dineen initial Guitar (Merit), Yannick Coombe initial plectrum guitar (Merit), Erica Hudson initial flute exam (Distinction), Lena Pollard grade 1 flute (Merit), Lauren Rimmer grade 4 flute (Merit), Lillian Eastwood grade 5 flute (Pass), Olivia Helmore grade 1 clarinet (Distinction), Amy Benson grade 1 clarinet (Distinction), Matai Wells grade 5 clarinet (Merit), Kimiya Byrne grade 5 clarinet (Merit), Bayne Deaton grade 1 jazz saxophone (Merit), Daisy Orbell grade 1 jazz saxophone (Distinction), Kahu Nepia grade 4 jazz saxophone (distinction), Meadow Chamberlain grade 3 violin (Distinction), Seth Carleton grade 5 violin (Pass), Estelle Norman grade 6 theory (Distinction), Maude Rogers grade 4 theory (Distinction), Evie Simonsohn grade 4 theory (Distinction).

THE WANAKA SUN

thewanakasun.co.nz

Sun News

PHOTO: Wanaka Sun

Work is underway at Upper Clutha Rugby Club’s extension to its club rooms.

The club first proposed a two-storey extension in 2012 but scaled it down, adding 204sqm to the existing floor area of the building located at Wanaka Showgrounds, which will include two new changing rooms, equipment storage rooms, new toilets, an extension on the building’s social area and a deck and barbecue area.

PHOTO: Donald Lousley

Scholarship available to get imaginative ALLISON MCLEAN

journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz

The Upper Clutha Community Arts (UCCA) Council wants to pay a few lucky residents to get creative.

The Wanaka Autumn Art School 2019 Scholarship is available to enable recipients to join the school’s programme between April 23 and 27. The scholarship is valued up to $1500 of which $420 will go towards course fees to help remove the barrier of possible financial constraints and allow attendees to develop skills in many artistic mediums.

To be considered, applicants need to be an Upper Clutha resident for at least one year and show evidence of an interest in or aptitude for their chosen course content. Additionally, recipients of an Arts School scholarship within the past three

Caption correction

years cannot apply. Applications close on December 7. Those interested may email uccac@outlook.com for an application form and for more details.

Entering into its 30th year of operation, the school’s full programme will include 17 classes, including painting, travel photography, screenwriting and fly fishing, from new and tenured New Zealand and Australian tutors; full class details will be released in mid-January.

The not-for-profit school, which is run by the UCCA council, is based at Mount Aspiring College campus and classes will explore the district. Updated information on registration and class availability can be found at www.autumnartschool.net.nz.

Pictured: Fine Art photography tutor, Kaye Davis, with her students at 2018 Wanaka Autumn Art School.

Fun songs for kids on new local album

PHOTO: Iain Miller

Apologies for the confusion, pictured here is the photograph of Heli Support NZ co-owner Kelly Buick loading HJV into L100 Hercules which was inadvertently omitted from last week's story “Wanaka choppers in Antarctica”. The photo which went to print was of the Heli Support team, taken by Ned Dawson.

Hawea Flat School and PTA would like to sincerely and warmly thank our sponsors, the general public, the teachers and everyone behind the scenes for their generosity and enthusiasm in helping to make the Hawea Flat School Country Fair happen! Enormous thanks to our wonderful parent community, we couldn’t have done it without you! Special thanks to Doug Brenssell, Leanne Harling, Kim Tomlin and everyone that supported, we have been deeply humbled!!

And of course our brave and game teachers who agreed to be dunked – Mr Merrall, Miss Bodger, Mrs Moore, Mrs Howard and Mrs Heath – you rock!

OUR WONDERFUL SPONSORS:

PHOTO: Jodie Rainsford Photography

Ruth Blunt

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

Local award-winning singer-songwriter Anna van Riel is celebrating the release of her second album Fishing For Stars with a children’s dance party and launch concert this Saturday.

Fishing For Stars, which came out on Friday, November 24, follows on from her award-winning children's album, Cooking Up A Song, and will also include introductory Te Reo Maori, action songs, lullabies and and fun songs for kids.

Van Riel said it was financed through a combination of NZ On Air funding and a successful crowd-funding campaign.

“Massive thanks to the local community for being my most prolific supporters,” she said.

She collaborated with family members, niece Tasmin van Riel and brother Jeromy van Riel, on

THE WANAKA SUN

a her second single from her album, Echo, which was released this month ahead of the album. It was recorded by Wanaka artist Danny Fairley of Arma Del Amor, filmed by local up-and-coming videographer 18-year-old Ollie Larkin of Wanaka, and tells the story of a young girl calling to her ancestors during Matariki.

“I wrote the song, my brother - Te Reo Māori teacher Jeromy van Riel - added a beautiful karakia, and my 10-year old niece Tasmin sang and also stars in the music video. It’s so special that we’ve created this together,” van Riel said.

The music video for Echo, which was filmed locally, is available to view on YouTube.

Van Riel said it she was excited to share the new album with kids. The children’s dance party, for kids up to age 12, will be at 1pm, at Gin and Raspberry, on Saturday, December 1 (gold coin donation).

Fishing For Stars is for sale at Health 2000 and on bandcamp.

Yoga Ground Wanaka, Federal Diner, Wonder Room, Botanica, Outside Sports Wanaka, Laetitia Campe, Flowing Stone Concrete Design, Sugar and Sage, Wanaka Hire Centre, Skydive Lake Wanaka, Helisupport NZ, Ecostore, Pirate Pickles, Wanaka Sports Massage, Sailz Lake Hawea Store, Wildwire Wanaka, Raglan Coconut Yoghurt, Taste of the Alps, Lake Hawea Hunting Safaris, Savar NZ Natural Skincare, Good Magazine, Swallow’s Crossing, True Skincare, Sweet Cheeks, Nook Road Organics, Bellbird Pottery Studio, White House Café and Bar, Artemis, Only Good Skincare, Toothcrush, Hannah Brooks Art, Pembroke Wines and Spirits, Optimise Fertiliser, Rachael McKenna Photographer, Matheson Café ReflectioNZ Gifts and Gallery, Paula Shorthall, The Highlanders, Treble Cone, Cardrona Alpine Resort, Lake Hawea Honey, Lake Wanaka Cruises, Magic Hands, Immaculate Cleaning Company, A. J. Hackett, Aspiring Gymsports, Wanaka Signs, Wanaka Furniture Design, Puzzling World and Aspiring Massage.

A SPECIAL THANKS FOR APPEARING: Wanaka Ukuleles, Anna van Riel, Tasmin van Riel, Jenn Shelton’s singers, Anna Rowley’s musicians, the Hawea Flat School Jump Jam and Aspiring Gymsports!!

AMAZING COMMUNITY SUPPORT FROM: Pukka Design, Coll Creative, Radio Wanaka, Mitre10, Lake Wanaka Centre, Lake Hawea Community Centre, Sailz Lake Hawea Store, Wastebusters, New World, Wanaka Party Hire, Tim Sharratt, The People’s Bread, Lake Hawea Hotel, White Rabbit Cakes, Rock Gas Wanaka, Revive Kefir, Wabio Kombucha, Mediterranean Market, The Rustic Rabbit, Pembroke Wines and Spirits, St Ninians Presbyterian Church, The Slammerman, Sarah Millwater, Melissa Thomson and the Hawea Youth Club, Central Wholesale, Raspberry Creek Catering, Harcourts, Aspiring Locksmiths, our rural posties Shanan Pullar and Nicky Hewson, the Lake Hawea Garage and Tim Jacobson for the spectacular dunking machine!

THURSDAY 29.11.18 - WEDNESDAY 05.12.18

THANKS TO THE FOLLOWING BUSINESSES & COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS FOR ATTENDING: Lake Hawea Fire Brigade, St John Wanaka, Wanaka Police, The Wanaka Lions and The Coffee Cart.

PAGE 9

Farming connection with Latin America industry body CIL and spoke at a symposium of La Serenisima, a dairy product maker with more than 5000 employees and annual revenue of more than $2 billion.

She also heard first hand from Uruguayan and Argentine farmers about the challenges they are facing in their regions.

While New Zealand has a much higher level of trade with Asian nations that those in Latin America, the latter is seen as offering significant opportunities especially with Chile and Peru being signatories to the CPTPP. New Zealand is also exploring deeper trade engagement with MERCOSUR (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay).

According to Statistics NZ, in the year to September 2017, New Zealand gained export revenues from goods and services to Argentina of $134 million (with imports from Argentina at $222.6 million). The figures for Uruguay for the same period were $27.6 million and $8.9 million.

STAFF REPORTER

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

Farmers, dairy product manufacturers and trade representatives in Uruguay and Argentina heard a New Zealand take on current agricultural issues, with Federated Farmers of NZ president Katie Milne speaking in Montevideo and Buenos Aires.

Her engagements in Uruguay included giving an address to a conference with the theme ‘Social innovation for a country with agricultural conscience’, a meeting with Uruguay’s Minister for Agriculture and Livestock, Enzo Benech, and visiting the PGG Wrightson Pas Research Centre to witness their operations in Latin America. Milne talked about future farming challenges, the importance of co-operatives in NZ agriculture (dairy in particular) and the role of women in rural communities at the Argentine Congress.

Among other events, she also had discussions with Argentina’s dairy

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A monthly column by Kim Reilly, Federated Farmers South Island regional policy manager, on issues affecting the Upper Clutha’s rural community…

A Cautionary Tale for Tourism and Forestry Reilly K Kim Regional Policy Manager, South Island It wasn’t just Robert Muldoon who encouraged us to ‘Think Big’, generations of New Zealanders have lived by the ‘go big or go home’ attitude.

Back in 1908, the government passed an Act that authorised large-scale drainage of wetlands.

That was followed by the provision of government incentives to make double sure any soggy land was cleared and ‘put to better use’.

In later decades, successive governments encouraged the felling of native forests to make way for further sheep and beef farming, and they provided lavish subsidies to boost livestock numbers and keep fertiliser cheap.

After the ‘80s, the sudden removal of subsidies forced farmers to be more productive and efficient, and encouraged them to chase the highest value land-use. Dairy turned from being farmers’ ‘poor cousin’ to a boom of white gold.

Mass conversions followed, with dairy literally providing the butter to our bread.

During that time, we’ve also seen the expansion of towns and suburbs onto our most fertile soils, with expanding suburbia pushing horticulture and farming further out from local markets and away from the consciousness of urban people.

But isn’t hindsight great? We now know that New Zealand has suffered extreme loss of wetlands and native biodiversity, and that some of our best soils have been lost to lifestyle blocks and suburban sprawl.

It is today’s farmers and landowners that are tasked with helping turn that situation around.

Today’s farming practices are very different from those many of us grew up with. Farmers now know that wetlands and riparian areas have important functions. They help protect land from flood damage, keep topsoil from washing into the sea, process and recycle nutrients, support wildlife and more.

We know that not every dairy conversion has been in ‘the right place’, and if we’re honest, the same can probably be said for some irrigation.

It’s also patently obvious that not every species introduction has been great. We’re all paying the price for the introduction of rabbits, possums, stoats and other pests to New Zealand, and many of our native fish are paying with their lives when it comes to the introduction of trout.

So what can tourism and forestry learn from all of this? Do we need a bit more foresight when it comes to envisaging how we want New Zealand to be in 20yrs, or 50yrs?

Shane Jones is wanting a billion trees* planted (*this includes those already intended by the forestry sectors). Right tree, right place is crucial to this. We need to learn from the massive damage caused by forestry slash in Gisborne and elsewhere, we need to make sure forestry isn’t put onto our most productive soils and is kept away from areas that shouldn’t be forested.

As those of us in the primary industries are frequently told, tourism is New Zealand’s current ‘boom’. But while our economy reaps the rewards, the dark-side of that can also be seen in the regions.

We are not just doing ‘tourism’, we’re supercharging it, and it’s putting a big strain on our local infrastructure, and consequently on local residents and ratepayers.

Freedom camping and its associated issues are well-known, too many of our farmers have to deal with dumped litter, disgusting human waste and toilet paper, trespassers, blocked gates and more.

We need to get this sorted.

We are also changing and expanding some of most beautiful places to entice the tourist dollar. You just need to look at the bumper to bumper campervans, buses and tourists around Wanaka, Queenstown or Mount Cook in peak seasons. Have you tried walking one of our popular walks lately?

Maybe our next ‘boom’ industries can learn from the lessons those of us in the farming sectors have been through.

What the Government and markets encourage one day, may be something that in the not too distant future we’re all pouring resources and time into trying to find solutions to fix.

Have your say on NAIT STAFF REPORTER

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) wants feedback on how the NAIT (National Animal Identification and Tracing) scheme can be improved.

Public consultation is now open for people to give feedback on proposed changes to the NAIT Act and regulations.

MPI’s Acting Director of Biosecurity and Animal Welfare Policy, Dr Andrew Bell, said it is critical New Zealanders have confidence in the effectiveness of the NAIT scheme.

“Mycoplasma bovis has shown how significant and widespread the impact an outbreak of an animal disease can have on the farming sector and our rural communities,” he said.

“We have also seen how important it is to have an effective system for tracing the movements of livestock, particularly during a biosecurity response.

“We need to ensure NAIT works properly and continues to do so well into the future.”

Earlier this year OSPRI, the organisation that oversees the NAIT scheme, released a review which included a range of recommendations for improving NAIT. On the back of the review and with learnings from the Mycoplasma bovis response, MPI has proposed changes to the laws that govern NAIT. THURSDAY 29.11.18 - WEDNESDAY 05.12.18

PHOTO: wanaka sun archive

“We want to hear what farmers, the industry, and the wider rural community think about these proposed regulatory changes, and other suggestions people may have for improving NAIT,” Bell said.

OSPRI is also making operational improvements to how the NAIT scheme operates.

“MPI has been working with OSPRI to strengthen the education, compliance and enforcement of the NAIT scheme.”

Public consultation on the proposals will end on December 19, 2018.

Further information, including the consultation document and submission form, is available on the MPI website.

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Sun News

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Give a little

Picnic in the park love STAFF REPORTER

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

Ruth Blunt

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

Locals have a really good reason to get into the Christmas spirit this weekend. Not only are the Christmas tree lights being turned on, but locally written festive song “Give Love At Christmas” will be performed live for the first time.

Written by two of New Zealand’s top children’s songwriters, Kath Bee and Anna van Riel, the proceeds of the song sales will go to children’s charity Variety.

Van Riel told the Wanaka Sun she’d be singing the new song with 12-year-old Matilda Metcalfe on Friday at the Lighting of the Christmas tree.

The award-winning singer-songwriters got together for a song-writing session in June at van Riel’s Lake Hawea home, which resulted in the new Christmas anthem for young and old.

"We both wanted to write a song about the important things at Christmas time, and the very catchy Give Love at Christmas emerged that afternoon,” said Bee. With help from New Zealand On Air, Danny Fairley of Mirrors Audio recorded Give Love At Christmas at his studio in Wanaka. And the catchy pop song

includes a multicultural and multi-aged choir from around the Wanaka area, with a gospel touch added by the talented young soloist Matilda Metcalf.

Give Love at Christmas music video will be launched tomorrow.

“It was filmed in Wanaka and St. Andrew Church with a choir made up of children, parents and grandparents of Wanaka,” van Riel said.

The video was produced and directed by a local team also with Wanaka videographer Ollie Larkin, project manager Julia Larkin and Invercargill's Traci Meek and Kevin Reid form Meek & Wild Creations adding their creativity and flair.

"Collaborating with Kath and being able to use a local production team has been fantastic", van Riel said. "Having this opportunity through New Zealand on Air has been incredible, and so amazing for the growth of Kiwi Kids Music."

Give Love at Christmas can be purchased, from tomorrow, via the Variety NZ website. All funds raised will go to the Gold Heart Foundation, raising funds to help provide scholarships for kids to grow their dreams.

Grab your favourite teddy and head to Wanaka Station Park this Sunday, December 2, for Upper Clutha Plunket's annual Teddy Bears’ Picnic.

The always entertaining Wanaka Ukulele Orchestra will perform, while Anna van Riel will sing some songs from her recently released album Fishing For Stars. St Nick and the Wanaka Volunteer Fire Brigade truck will also make an appearance.

The three-hour event begins at 10am and Plunket promises there will be coffee, ice cream and a sausage sizzle.

Don't forget to bring a picnic lunch.

Pictured: Whether it's a hand-

PHOTO: wanaka sun archives

STAFF REPORTER

STAFF REPORTER

As part of new building standards Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) will start contacting the owners of buildings identified as being potentially unsafe in an earthquake.

About 45 buildings have been identified as potentially earthquake prone in the district. They were identified using an approach set out by the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment (MBIE) and as part of the Government’s Building (Earthquake-prone buildings) Amendment Act 2016 requirements for high and medium seismic risk areas.

QLDC building services manager Chris English advised that the Kaikōura and Christchurch earthquakes have brought the seismic nature of the South Island and Queenstown Lakes to the forefront, highlighting the need for further safety measures.

“Public safety is paramount and to take steps to ensure this, we’ve now completed a high-level assessment of all building stock within the district and identified a list of potentially vulnerable buildings,” English said.

English advised that the number of potentially

editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

earthquake prone buildings is comparably small compared to other cities and towns.

“With the amount of development that has occurred throughout the Queenstown Lakes district many older unreinforced masonry buildings have either been replaced or strengthened already,” said English.

To ensure the list is accurate, QLDC will be sending letters to owners asking for evidence that their building has either been strengthened to at least 34 percent of the new building standard or that it is outside MBIE’s profiling categories.

Building owners will be asked to supply this evidence within six weeks of receiving the letter.

“If evidence cannot be supplied, owners will receive a formal notice asking for either an Initial Seismic Assessment or a Detailed Seismic Assessment,” he said.

“We will also be seeking formal feedback from the public in early 2019 about the list of buildings and thoroughfares which have been categorised as priority or high risk,” said English.

A council spokeperson said details on the public consultation process will be available soon.

Access to the marina and surrounding waterways will be restricted while chemical weed control measures are carried out.

Signs will be in place notifying

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Chinese & NZ beers, local wines, BYO Groups, events, families welcome.

Tel: 03-443-1177 68 Ardmore Street THE WANAKA SUN

Sue and the team are bursting to share new ideas, fabrics, wallpaper and window coverings.

Our place or yours!

19 Cliff Wilson Street • 03 443 4604 Open 9.30am–5pm • Five Days.

Saturday appointments welcomed.

the public of the weed control operation, which will be taking place at the marina from November 24 to December 23, depending on weather conditions. Aquathol K will be applied within 25m of the marina structure by ERMA-approved licensed applicator, Landcare Services Limited.

Wanaka Auto Service Centre

Lunch: 11:30AM – 2:30PM • Dinner: 5PM – 9PM

DINE IN, TAKEAWAY, DELIVERY

knitted Gruffolo from your Great Aunt Marion or a fluffy orangutan from Granny, all teddies are welcome to picnic in the park this weekend.

Weed control at marina

Earthquake prone buildings identified editor@thewanakasun.co.nz

PHOTO: Wanaka Sun

OPEN 7 DAYS

03 443 1562 wanaka@coopertyres.co.nz

Like our Facebook page (Cooper Tyres Wanaka) www.coopertyres.co.nz | 6 Umbers Street, Three Parks, Wanaka 9305

THURSDAY 29.11.18 - WEDNESDAY 05.12.18

PAGE 11

Sun Sport

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Hudson scores World Cup points Sports reporter

sports@thewanakasun.co.nz

Local ski racer Piera Hudson has achieved a career best performance at her first World Cup of the season, skiing from start bib 59 to finish 26th in the Slalom at the Killington Cup in Vermont, USA over the weekend.

In World Cup Slalom only the 30 fastest racers from the first run qualify for run two. Hudson (pictured) now finds herself among a handful of NZ athletes - including the likes of Chris Wormsley, Fiona Johnson, Simon Wi Rutene, Annelise Coberger and Claudia Riegler who have achieved a top 30 result and score World Cup Slalom points. She is also the first in more than 15 years to do so.

“I’m pretty over the moon with today’s result,” she said. “It was tough conditions and visibility but I gave it everything and it paid off. I feel pretty proud to have put New Zealand back on the Alpine World Cup again after so long and I’m excited for the future.”

Competing in front of a crowd of 15,000, racers faced challenging course conditions and poor visibility due to fog and light mist.

“From the outside it looked like a surprise result but from the way Piera has been training I had a good feeling about today and she’s particularly good in Slalom when the conditions are difficult,” said Coach Jonny Rice. “It’s a great feeling to be part of one of the few New Zealand teams to ever score World Cup points.”

PHOTO: supplied

PARFUMS

PHOTO: FIS

Local athletes hit northern hemisphere snow

FLOWER BY

Sports reporter

sports@thewanakasun.co.nz

THE NEW FRAGRANCE

Olympic bronze medallist Zoi Sadowski-Synnott achieved a fourth place finish at the Air + Style Snowboard Big Air World Cup held at Bird’s Nest stadium in Beijing at her first competition of the northern hemisphere season.

She successfully executed a double wildcat nosegrab (her first with this grab in competition, recently learnt in Japan) along with the switch back nine, the trick she used in her bronzemedal winning run at the Olympic Games, for a combined score of 150.25 points.

Olympic gold medallist Anna Gasser (AUT) took her second consecutive Air

+ Style Beijing title, while second place went to Miyabi Onitsuka (JPN) and third was Laurie Blouin (CAN).

Meanwhile in Austria, the FIS Freeski World Cup was back in business at Stubai Zoo snowpark, with the first slopestyle competition of the season.

Finn Bilous achieved a solid result, finishing in eighth place. The decision to move the finals from Saturday to Friday following the unfavourable weather forecast was a good one, with perfect conditions for the top 18 men.

After landing his first run with a small mistake on the rails, Bilous decided to change things up for run two but came off the rails early on his second attempt and his initial score of 83.88 was his best and just five points off the winner.

SPORTS RESULTS Please send sports results to sports@thewanakasun.co.nz by Tuesday at noon.

Phone: 03 443 8000 Top of Helwick Street, Wanaka OPENING HOURS: 8AM TO 7PM 7 DAYS PAGE 12

Wanaka Bridge Club: (Tues) 1st equal John Schwarz, Peter Hart/Judy Muir, Shona Watt 59.03%. 3rd Colin & Trevor Coulter 57.64%.

(Wed) N/S 1st Carolyn Field, Carolyn Grey 57.88%. 2nd Marion Furneaux, Jude Gunn 56.92%. 3rd Josey McKenzie, Dennis Pezaro 52.69%. E/W 1st Bridget McCaughan, Pam Miller 61.73%. 2nd Terry Wilson, Lyn Hill 60.58%. 3rd Jill Paxman, Morag Chisholm 58.85%. (Fri H/Cap) N/S 1st Sherril Harries, Maggie Stratford 57.48%. 2nd Noeline

THURSDAY 29.11.18 - WEDNESDAY 05.12.18

Munro, Carolyn Grey 52.89%. 3rd Deidre Lynch, Mary Gibson-Collings 52.41%. E/W 1st Jenny Turnbull, Rosemary Boswell 57.44%.

2nd Allan MacLean, Boyd Ottrey 55.51%. 3rd Bridget McCaughan, Sonya Adams 55.06%.

(Mon) N/S 1st Ena Leckie, Marion Furneaux 63.65%. 2nd Tommie Munns, Kate Coe 62.50%. 3rd Jan Lyness, Maggie Stratford 59.23%. E/W 1stAlan & Trish Foote 61.73%.

2nd Sherril Harries, Dorothy McDonald 59.62%. 3rd Ken Saxby, Ken Roberts 58.08%

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Sun Views

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Crimeline BOPP C Calvin Constable, NZPD A busy week for the crew at 5 Ballantyne Road.

There were two missing person reports filed.

One party was found safe and well by Police and LANDSAR. The weather had caught them out and had them stranded up the Motutapu. Enquiries established our other missing person was out of cell phone range but also alive and well. Please let someone know where you are if you’re enjoying our fantastic countryside.

There have been reports of two vehicles being stolen. A reminder to lock and secure your car, leaving nothing enticing for the criminals to be entranced by.

Although we do live in a relatively safe town, ratbags do pass through and are pretty opportunistic.

Four reports of family harm incidents have come to our attention this week. Those involved will be put in touch with appropriate contacts. If things are getting heated and you are able, take some time to cool off such as heading out for a walk or a drive to get a clear head. Reach out to those closest to you for advice.

Two people decided to dodge the weekly specials at New World and instead took a midnight dive into the skip to do their groceries. Whilst items have been thrown out, they are still the property

of the business and dumpster diving is thieving.

Ignorance is not really an excuse in this case as the scoundrels took the gate off its hinges to gain access to the skip. There is good CCTV and I urge the two people involved to get out ahead of this and make themselves known to us before we track them down.

Multiple driving complaints have been dealt with

by Police. We rely on your calls to *555 for this so keep calling in the atrocious driving you witness.

There is a fair whack of lost property at the station.

Come in for a chat if you’ve lost something and we can see if it is in the collection. The found key box is overflowing so we could be housing the access to your housing. A local lady was very appreciative to receive her wallet back from another local lady who handed it in to the Medical Centre.

Drink drivers were again taken off the street this week. Some found themselves with a hefty fine and 12 hours without their car keys. Others found themselves off to court to explain themselves.

A few of you may have received a chocolate frog from the Students Against Dangerous Driving (SADD) group from Mount Aspiring College who come out and helped with our police check points last weekend.

We appreciate their support and enthusiasm and hope to have you out again with us soon.

Enjoy the week and stay safe.

Sponsored by

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

GREBE DIARY 5

November 25 2018 I am afraid I am going to have to put Greg and his problems to one side. This last week has been most discouraging and miserable. We lost the eggs from five nests between November 18 and 20, and a sixth one between November 20 and 21.

We had some pretty big winds in that period, the strongest from the SE was 57km on November 18 and I suspect that the marina is more vulnerable to those than the prevailing norwesters. We lost five of those six nests in one go and my immediate guess was that it was the 57km one that may have caused the damage. But then I noted that there were egg fragments on most of the platforms giving me a sense of unease that was reinforced when I came to check the last nest lost. The photo above was taken on November 21 and is of nest 5 that had four eggs on November 20.

A nest full of broken eggshell and a single intact egg among the debris? The wind could not have done that; and added to that as I walked the marina, I noticed small fragments of eggshell on the walkway.

That added three other possibilities to the mix, either one of two raptors, i.e. falcon or harrier hawk,

or the black-backed gull. The black-back is well known as a predator and scavenger, and finding shell on the marina walkway suggested that it would have had to be carried there and a gull would more likely do that than a raptor. Raptors mostly catch their food using their talons or beaks. It is doubtful that they could carry an egg in their talons or their bills, well maybe they can if the egg was already broken in the nest and they took the broken part with them onto the walkway to consume at leisure. They would most probably do that if they were being attacked by a very angry grebe from the safety of the lake.

As I discussed options with a colleague in the carpark, a dark shape PHOTO: John Darby flew the length of the marina - it was a falcon.

We hope to be able to install a motion-activated trail camera over a baited nest and see what happens. In the meantime I am frantically manufacturing simple cages from No. 8 wire to fix onto each of the nesting platforms.

If you see a bird swooping and attacking chicks or similar behaviour on the lake, let me know. A photo would be fantastic.

– John Darby

To submit a letter for possible publication in the Wanaka 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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THANKS

Wanted by the Salvation Army Family Store, if any one has any spare pillow cases we would love them, please just drop them into the store, thanks.

The Salvation Army Family store would like used glass spice jars with lids, to donate these please just pop them into the store in Brownston Street.

Volunteers required 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.

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.

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.

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 Vicki Donoghue for information 027 208 9462.

Rags, rags, rags ... little ones, big ones, cotton ones and drop cloths, available from the Wanaka Salvation Army Family Store 443 5068.

EMPLOYMENT

EVERY LETTERBOX EVERY THURSDAY

Is your Wanaka Sun delivered every Thursday?

If not, email your address to admin@thewanakasun.co.nz or phone us on 03 443 5252 PAGE 14

THURSDAY 29.11.18 - WEDNESDAY 05.12.18

YOUR AD WILL REACH THE MOST LOCALS ONLINE IN www.thewanakasun.co.nz THE WANAKA SUN

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EMPLOYMENT

SUN TEAM

EMPLOYMENT

WANAKA’S INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER ISSUE 898

Playgroup Co-ordinator We are now seeking a new co-ordinator to run Wanaka Playgroup.

Our mission is to provide a welcoming and supportive environment for families to meet and socialise. The coordinator is responsible for planning and running two weekly playgroup sessions.

This is a paid position during the school term only. Required days are Monday and Thursday 9am -12pm.

To be considered for this role, you will ideally have: • Suitable experience in child care for under 5’s working within Ministry guidelines.

• Good group organisational skills and ability to include all children.

• Excellent planning and facilitation skills to deliver a fun and exciting programme.

If this sounds like you, please email your CV and covering letter to playgroupwanaka@hotmail.co.nz Applications close December 4th.

All applicants must have New Zealand residency and will be subject to police checks.

Vineyard / Property Worker:

We are seeking an energetic & enthusiastic person for full-time 6 month fixed term contract.

Work is primarily vineyard related with responsibilities of maintaining the entire property at Mt Barker. Express your interest by email to us info@akitu.wine

Bulk Foods Merchandiser Wanaka Here's your chance to work for NZ's top bulk foods company!

Free delivery to Wanaka, Cromwell and surrounds, PO boxes in Makarora, Cromwell, Haast, Wanaka, Albert Town and Hawea. Also distributed to businesses in the Wanaka business district Average circulation: 15,000 weekly.

Phone: 03 443 5252 • Fax: 03 443 5250 Editor: Ruth Blunt • editor@thewanakasun.co.nz Journalists: Emma Conyngham • newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz

Allison McLean • journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz Advertising: 021 786 740 • adrep@thewanakasun.co.nz Admin: Benn Ashford • 021 956 740 • admin@thewanakasun.co.nz PO Box 697, Wanaka Mail: Deadlines: Display Advertising

Classified Advertising

Subscriptions:

A part time position is now available working in Wanaka, 10 hours per week, 8am - 1pm on two week days (days to be determined.)

WWW.THEWANAKASUN.CO.NZ

This role will also include extra shifts throughout Dec Jan as the holiday season commences.

This position involves the filling and cleaning of bulk food bins containing confectionery, dried fruits, nuts, and cereals.

Don't let this fabulous opportunity pass you by!

Check out the video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGTmTk5YxOY Be quick!

Email your application to recruitment@prolife.co.nz

Office Administrator– Fixed Term, Maternity Cover 20+ hours per week, Starting 28th January 2019 Providing support for our investment advisors in Wanaka.

Advanced MS Office, Word & Excel required.

Further information: www.aspiringwealth.com/jobs Email: applications to: admin@aspiringwealth.com

Applications to be received by 7th December 2018

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SHARE STORIES

4pm Friday prior to publication. adrep@thewanakasun.co.nz 021 786 740 5pm Monday prior Text: 0220 786 778 admin@thewanakasun.co.nz $175 within NZ (including GST) per year.

Overseas rates on request.

Remittances to PO Box 697, Wanaka, NZ.

PUBLIC NOTICE Wanaka Marina Limited wishes to advise that in terms of the company’s resource consent conditions, there will be chemical weed control measures taking place from the 24th November 2018 to 23rd December 2018 depending on weather conditions. The chemical, Aquathol K, will be applied within 25 metres of the marina structure by ERMA approved licensed applicator, Landcare Services Limited.

Access to the Marina and surrounding water ways will be restricted during the period of application. Signage will be placed in the area to notify to public of the restricted access. This notice is given in accordance with the Otago Regional Council Water Use & Management policy under clause 12:7.1.1ii For further details please feel free to contact the applicator Graeme Larcombe on 027 222 5467 or the Marina Secretary Shane Gibson on 03 443 0086.

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N o t i c e b o a rd | P a p a P ā n u i Closure of Streets to Ordinary Vehicular Traffic PURSUANT TO THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1974, notice is hereby given that consideration will be given, at the Wanaka Community Board meeting on 21 February 2019, to the closure of the following road to ordinary vehicular traffic, for the purpose of holding the annual Wanaka A & P Show 2019:

SOUTHERN VENTURES G R O U P A C C O U N TA N T Southern Ventures is an entrepreneurial investment company providing finance, management, consulting, and support services to a family of associated businesses. Due to continued positive growth, we are seeking an exceptional individual to fill the newly created role of Group Accountant.

ROLE PURPOSE Manage the Southern Ventures financial activities, ensuring sound financial and business practices are applied across all their business operations.

DIRECT REPORT Operations Manager K E Y A C C O U N TA B I L I T I E S • Management Reporting; • Treasury; • Budgeting; • Company Secretarial; • Key Policies and Procedures; • Annual Accounts.

KEY SKILLS • Strong commercial acumen; • Proven leadership and team management skills; • The ability to communicate at all levels across the organisation; • Ideally CA Qualified (tertiary qualified essential) with at least ten to fifteen years financial experience in a diversified range of industry sectors; • Exceptionally well versed in Microsoft Excel, and integrated accounting software packages, ideally with detailed exposure to the Xero Accounting Platform.

THE WANAKA SUN

Road to be Closed:

McDougall Street from Ardmore Street to Brownston Street, Wanaka

Period of Closure:

0800 Wednesday 6 March 2019 to 0800 Sunday 10 March 2019

It will be an offence under the above regulations for any person otherwise than under authority of an authorised permit to use the roads for ordinary vehicular traffic during the period of closure.

E S S E N T I A L AT T R I B U T E S • Driven to succeed with a healthy competitive spirit; • Highest level of ownership and commitment; • Attention to detail with a consistent efficient approach; • Honest and confidential; • Dynamic, flexible and adaptable; • Reliable and trustworthy; • Self-motivated with a high level of initiative.

WE OFFER • A full-time permanent position in positive work environment based in beautiful Wanaka; • The opportunity to be part of an excellent collaborative team of professionals; • Opportunities for targeted professional development; • Competitive remuneration package for the right candidate.

H O W T O A P P LY Please supply a (1 page max.) covering letter specifically outlining how your previous experience would make you a good fit for the skills and strengths listed above and a (2 page max.) ‘highlights’ CV of your relevant work history and qualifications to;

Those who have any concerns regarding the above closures, please contact Sarah Mitchell at APL Property Limited on 021 244 9988 or by email sarah.mitchell@aplproperty.co.nz before 5.00 pm on Monday 10 December 2018.

Notice of Intention to Grant Licence over Recreation Reserve HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN (FOR MOUNT ASPIRING COLLEGE) PURSUANT TO SECTION 54(1)(D) OF THE RESERVES ACT 1977 The land described in Schedule A of this Notice (the Land) is vested in the Queenstown Lakes District Council as recreation reserve. Mount Aspiring College are seeking a licence for the Wanaka Community Swimming Pool reserve for a temporary location to enable the redevelopment of Mount Aspiring College. The Licensee would be Her Majesty the Queen for the Ministry of Education. The Council is considering granting the licence pursuant to Section 54(1)(d) of the Reserves Act 1977.

Pursuant to Sections 54(1)(d) and 119 of the Reserves Act 1977 the Council has an obligation to publicly notify its intention to grant such licence by way of this Notice.

Any person or organisation may object to or make submissions with respect to the proposed licence.

More information can be obtained from the Council’s agent, APL Property, PO Box 1586, Queenstown, phone 03 442 7133 or email queenstown@aplproperty.co.nz.

Submissions will be required no later than 28 December 2018 and should be sent to APL Property as above.

Schedule A: The reserve is legally described as Lot 1 DP 22331 and is known as the Wanaka Community Swimming Pool.

THIS NOTICE is given on behalf of Queenstown Lakes District Council by APL Property, PO Box 1586, Queenstown, phone 03 442 7133.

office@southernventures.co.nz

by Friday, 7 December 2018.

THURSDAY 29.11.18 - WEDNESDAY 05.12.18

Private Bag 50072 | 33 Reece Crescent Wanaka Phone 03 443 0024 | www.qldc.govt.nz

PAGE 15

Sun Sport

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Cardrona opens to a snowy summer

PHOTO: supplied

ALLISON MCLEAN

journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz

Cardrona Alpine Resort (CAR) is opening its summer operation this Saturday with a twist. As the resort’s trail team continues to locate the mountain bike and mountain cart trails which are covered due to recent snowfall, visitors can instead enjoy the next season’s kickoff with sightseeing, snow play, snow tubing and skiing on the beginners’ slope.

“The snow is melting quickly now and we will bring carting and biking on as soon as we have the first trails completely clear. Snow activities will stop when we run out of snow – it’s that simple,” said CAR general manager

Bridget Legnavsky (pictured).

The CAR team will be running skiing lessons to brand new skiers and offering discounted Learner Conveyor day passes, which include a single ride on the McDougall’s Express Chondola. It is rumoured that Santa Claus may even make an early holiday appearance in time for a photo opportunity on December 1.

Transport from Queenstown and stargazing tours will continue to run on the usual summer schedule, and lifts will run from 10am to 4pm.

Legnavsky said trail crews are also working on a new jump line around the winter Gravity X course that is expected to be ready mid-summer season.

Young footballers off to nationals Sports reporter

sports@thewanakasun.co.nz

The future of football in Wanaka, and the nation, is looking good, as a number of young players get set to head off to this year’s national regional football tournament in Wellington.

The players - Kiara Berceli (girls under-14); Tessa Treadwell Burke (girls under-16); Izaak Emanuel, Jack Lanigan, Ethan Arratia (boys under-14); Weston Bell, Fletcher Cavanagh, Levi Fletcher, Michael Gealogo, and Toa Roode (boys under-16) - were selected to Football

South National Age Grade Teams for the tournament.

Most of the young footballers have had a long season already, with some of them playing in senior and youth league competitions, and participating in the NZSS national futsal tournament. As well as this our local players have been on teams competing at the South Island NZSS football tournament and South Island and Central Otago representative teams.

The NZ National Age Grade Tournament is their last tournament for the year.

PHOTO: supplied

Accessible swim, bike, run club ALLISON MCLEAN

journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz

Spring and summer have sprung new competitions for the young members of Mount Aspiring College (MAC) Tri-sport Club. Invited by the Central Otago Wakatipu Cycle Club (COWCC) and for the first time as a formed club, the students joined the COWCC Treble Cone to Wanaka return road race on November 18, which included a shortened 20km course to accommodate the younger riders.

Adult racers, including experienced 12-year-old riders, cycled the entire course up to two times. The club’s Carter Guichard, a Holy Family School Year 7 student, beat out all adult riders to win Group D. Jack Findlay, 15, won Group C, also beating the adult riders. Laurie Watson, 16, finished with the lead group in Group A. The Tri-sport club was set up by MAC Senior English teacher Chris Waugh to make the sport accessible to all including to those who may not have a desire to compete in triathlons; the idea grew from a road cycling club originally established in March 2017.

“This year Sam Coupland, a Year 13 student who recently won the “Best All Round Boy” prize at the prize giving, assisted me in responding to the demand for comprehensive triathlon training to build the club to what it is today. The club is designed to provide all Wanaka students who are Year 7 and up with access to structured training for the three triathlon codes: swim, bike and running.

We’re happy for people to dip into our training programme where it suits them: they can train for one, two or all of the codes.”

Waugh said there are currently students from 11to-18 years old in the club and Holy Family School Years 7 and 8 students have also been invited to join the free club membership and training, which is supported by voluntary efforts of Waugh, Sam Coupland, Merryn Johnston and a wide variety of local parents and coaches.

Waugh said donations from the local triathlon community, including advice or equipment, have enabled student athletes to train in all codes consistently in all weather conditions since early this year. Families and members of the community are also encouraged to join the training sessions.

“Local coach Merryn Johnston has put a lot of her time into assisting me in the development of training programmes and by offering specialist advice in the pool,” said Waugh.

He said the club has set its sights on entering into one competition per month throughout the next 12 months.

“We’ll be out in force at the Ruby open swimming event and at the Challenge Wanaka Otago Secondary Schools Triathlon Champs. We’ll be entered in many schools competitions next year for all three codes and one of our major goals for the year will be to compete well in the Yunca Junior Tour of Southland, a three-day stage race, in October. Every time we set ourselves up for an event, we focus our training in the lead-up to the skills and fitness specific to that race’s needs. Everyone trains together whether they’re entered in the event or not. There’s a wonderful atmosphere of mutual support.”

Pictured: Students from MAC Tri-sport Club compete at Central Otago Wakatipu Cycle Club race.

Luxe sustainable lifestyle fashion has arrived in Wanaka 35 Helwick St, Wanaka | 03 443 1606 untouchedworld.com

PAGE 16

THURSDAY 29.11.18 - WEDNESDAY 05.12.18

THE WANAKA SUN