Wanaka Sun 6 - 12 Feb 2014

Silver birch can trigger asthma No-one has asked for silver birch trees (Betula pendula) to be cut down in the Central Lakes district, despite a court ruling in Christchurch last week ordering the council there to remove two which were causing allergic reactions in a family living beside them. PAGE 2

George recovering The parents of a Hawea Flat boy recovering from a head injury he received in a bouncy castle accident on January 23 have been overwhelmed by the support they have received from the community. PAGE 3

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inside:

WANAKA’S INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER

While the bulk of the work for the 2014 Rippon Festival was done by Director Lynne Christie and her Personal Assistant and Backstage Manager Anna McConville (pictured centre back), a lot of others came in to help during the days leading up to the festival, held on Saturday. This year they included (pictured); Sam Orbell, who has been part of the crew since the first festival; artists Hayley May Flintoft, Patrick Mandelin and Kyle Martin who built a tin can band especially for Rippon, James Norman (crew), designer Jocelyn Kirk, and visuals and lighting expert Tommy Garland, and Jed Beck.

Continued page 9

Hazardous intersection PAGE 2

Welcome for new principal PAGE 11

PHOTO: WANAKA.TV

Proposed subdivision halved Best results ever PAGE 16

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Jessica Maddock Wanaka Sun The number of sections at the proposed Northlake subdivision should be slashed by more than half, a planner for the Queenstown Lakes District Council says.

Michaela Ward Meehan, who was behind another subdivision already permitted at Northlake, had proposed between 1600 and 1740 sections be created on 220 hectares, between Aubrey Road and the Clutha River.

But a consultant planner for the council, Vicki Jones, recommends

the number of sections be reduced to a maximum of 710.

A public hearing into the proposed subdivision was scheduled to begin

Sydney-based Michaela Ward Meehan had requested the private plan change – known as Plan Change 45, Northlake Special Zone – on

We will be presenting evidence to the effect the zone should occur as it has been applied for. at Edgewater on Monday and was set down for six consecutive weekdays.

It would be heard by independent commissioners Lyal Cocks and David Whitney.

behalf of the four owners of the site, of which she owned the majority.

It proposed a variety of section sizes, from medium to low density, plus some larger lots, with an average

of seven houses per hectare.

In the most populated areas, there would be 15 houses per hectare on 450-500 square metre sections, including townhouses and terraced housing.

The land was currently zoned Rural Residential and Rural General and, while the Wanaka Structure Plan anticipated future development on most of the site, an average of five houses per hectare was envisaged, with the highly sensitive areas protected from development.

Story continues page 2...

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Hazardous intersection Caroline Harker Wanaka Sun

PHOTO: WANAKA.TV

Subdivision halved ... Continued from page 1 Under Vicki Jones’ recommendations, the highest parts of the site would remain Rural General with “building restriction areas” and the rest would be zoned Rural Residential and Low Density Residential, therefore removing the medium density areas proposed in the private plan change.

The minimum lot size should be 700 square metres, in line with the rest of Wanaka, her report said.

She had also recommended the subdivision be put on hold until about December 2019, when work on stage one - of around 440 sections - could begin.

The remaining lots to a maximum of 710 - would also be staged over the following ten to 15 years and would still be subject to normal council

consenting processes.

Removaloftheproposed “neighbourhood” commercial area – for example, convenience shops, a café and hairdresser – was also recommended, along with the addition of retirement villages.

Vickialsorecommended development did not extend as far north as was proposed, instead aligning with the boundaries envisaged by the Wanaka Structure Plan.

The private plan change request was prepared by Queenstown-based town planning and resource management consultants, John Edmonds and Associates Limited.

Its director, John Edmonds, said the applicant, Michaela Ward Meehan, did not agree with the council planner’s recommendations.

“We will be presenting evidence to the effect the zone should occur as it has been applied for,”

he said.

Neil Webster, spokesperson for a group of residents who were against the proposal, said the council planner’s recommendations would not sufficiently reduce the scale, and therefore the impact, of the subdivision.

His particular concern was the affect it would have on Anderson Road – where he lived – and Aubrey Road, and the fact there were no plans to upgrade either route to help cope with the increased use.

Michaela Ward Meehan was also the developer behind the existing Northlake subdivision, which had consent for 64 sections of at least 4000 square metres, the majority of which have already been sold.

These lots could be further subdivided, to a maximum of 123 sections, if her private plan change was approved.

Prohibited fire season A prohibited fire season will come into force across the Queenstown Lakes District from midnight tomorrow (February 7).

Gas or electric barbecues are permitted, as are cooking fires in approved, permanent, purpose-built surrounds. All other fires are illegal and fireworks may not be lit.

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Yet another accident at the intersection of Ballantyne and Riverbank roads has created an outcry for something to be done before there is another fatality there.

Senior Sergeant Allan Grindell said there have been crashes at the intersection before.

“Some of the guys recall there was a fatal crash there. The signage at the intersection is pretty clear.

There is a big red stop sign. The crashes are due to driver error - drivers not stopping - rather than engineering problems.”

The latest accident happened on Thursday last week. Local woman Julie Johns was driving a Toyota van along Ballantyne Road towards Wanaka when it happened.

“I always approach the junction with caution and was travelling at about 50kph then suddenly a large white campervan appeared from Riverbank Road on my right, and he had completely failed to stop [despite the stop

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sign]. I braked hard but we ended up colliding. My three year old daughter was with me …. We were both shaken but were very fortunate to get away with just a few cuts and bruises. Had I been driving my usual car the outcome might have been quite different.”

Julie said she and her husband John Wellington live nearby and have heard of many accidents at the intersection, including two where their guests’ cars were hit by vehicles failing to stop, despite the stop signs on Riverbank Road.

The owner of a property near the intersection, Mark Magill, contacted the Wanaka Sun after

the accident to reiterate his concerns about a proposed Aurora electricity substation on one corner of the intersection.

“The plans look to take up the entire 5000 square metre site,” Mark said.

“The accident happened with that site completely clear. If the substation was there, visibility would be significantly reduced. This intersection is hazardous as it is, the busier it gets the worse it gets. With a substation blocking some of the view, someone will have a big crash one day.”

Aurora Energy Ltd wants to buy the councilowned site, conditional on it being designated for an electricity substation.

Aurora’s case was heard in December by commissioners Jane Taylor and Cath Gilmour.

A decision is expected within a fortnight. Eight neighbours objected to the substation on a number of grounds, including concerns about noise, electromagnetic fields, proximity to earthquake fault lines and visual effects. Mark Magill expressed concerns about groundwater contamination, and fires and explosions from lightning strikes.

“Substations can cause environmental hazards as they can spill large amounts of diesel if a breaker explodes, thus getting into the surrounding bore water, which local residents use for drinking, and the Cardrona River,” he said.

“The most disturbing fact is the entire site is sitting on the Cardrona fault line, which is marked on the QLDC map as a hazardous zone. The impact [of an earthquake] would be severe. Imagine if it hit in winter. The power would be completely wiped out.”

Silver birch can trigger asthma Caroline Harker Wanaka Sun No-one has asked for silver birch trees (Betula pendula) to be cut down in the Central Lakes district, despite a court ruling in Christchurch last week ordering the council there to remove two which were causing allergic reactions in a family living beside them.

Queenstown Lakes District Council Senior Communications Advisor Michele Poole said they would look at requests on a case by case basis.

“We have a policy that we nolongerplantsilverbirches along streets because some people are allergic to them,” she said. “However, they are not designated as a tree weed.” Michele said there are around 300 silver birches planted on public land around the district, and thousands in private gardens. The

PHOTO: WANAKA.TV

QLDC district tree policy states, “It is well known that some species of trees such as Betula (silver birch) and Alnus (alder) can trigger attacks such as asthma at certain times of the year for those predisposed to the condition.” It also states there should be “consideration given to

avoiding planting trees that may have a detrimental effect on people’s heath in areas where visitor density is high.” Other trees thought to activate asthma in some people include wattle and privet.

In 2006 Lincoln University’s Professor Ian Spellerberg and others

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published a paper which stated the pollen from silver birches can cause symptoms including hay fever, asthma and oral allergy syndrome. “Of all introduced species in New Zealand, the introduced silver birch is the main problem,” the paper said.

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Less red tape Jessica Maddock Wanaka Sun Council plans to make it easier for businesses to erect signage in commercial areas are being welcomed by the Wanaka Chamber of Commerce.

Its chairperson, Alistair King, said the Queenstown Lakes District Council’s signage rules had caused headaches for several Wanaka businesspeople.

The rules which had caused the problems were around where signs could be placed, the allowed size, and the length of time it took to get consent to erect signs.

The council’s Planning and Development General Manager, Marc Bretherton, said the intention was to iron out these problems and make it easier for businesspeople to erect signs.

At a meeting last week, the council accepted its Resource Consenting Manager Blair Devlin’s recommendation to amend the signage rules in the District Plan.

His report to the council said “The operative District Plan signs chapter has a number of welldocumented problems

George recovering Caroline Harker Wanaka Sun

PHOTO: WANAKA.TV

that result in a large number of resource consent applications and considerable costs for applicants, which are disproportionate to the environmental effects created.

“The non-complying activity status for signs… should be reviewed given these consents are generally processed nonnotified and approved.”

He proposed three main changes. The first allowed signs to be erected without consent, providing they were placed within a “sign platform” which did have consent.

The second related to commercial buildings with multiple tenants, and stated each tenant could erect signage totalling 15 percent of the ground floor building façade.

Under the existing rules, signs were permitted

on a per building basis, rather than per tenancy, meaning the first tenant could use all the allowed signage space, forcing subsequent tenants to seek consent for further signage.

And thirdly, half a window within a building could be used for signage.

Marc Bretherton expected the changes would be notified for public submissions within a month.

They mainly affected areas zoned as commercial in the District Plan, which generated 64 percent of consent applications for signage.

Signs used to be managed through both the District Plan and a Signs Bylaw. The latter had expired and in future they would be managed only through the District Plan.

The parents of a Hawea Flat boy recovering from a head injury he received in a bouncy castle accident on January 23 have been overwhelmed by the support from the community.

George Crotty, 8, was playing on a bouncy castle at Pisa Moorings when it is believed it was picked up by a freak wind gust and he fell to the ground. The accident is being investigated.

His parents Dave Crotty and Helen Best contacted the Wanaka Sun wanting to thank the people of Hawea and Wanaka for their support. “We’ve had heaps of presents and messages and lots of people coming down [to Dunedin Hospital],” Dave said. “What an amazing little community we live in.”

George was transferred to the Wilson Centre in Auckland on Wednesday. “They do rehabilitation for children with head injuries,” Dave told the Wanaka Sun on

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Monday. “I don’t know how long we’ll be there – a week or two, or a month; whatever it takes, until he can go back to school.”

Dave and Helen are in Auckland with George. “He’s going to recover,”

Dave said. “We’re stoked.”

Dave was working in Russia snow-grooming for the Winter Olympic Games when he got a message to contact Helen at Dunedin Hospital. He said when he arrived back two days later George was “staring into space and not talking”.

“Now he’s walking and talking and slowly coming around,” Dave said. “He’s improving every day.”

Hawea Flat School Principal Sue Heath said the school was donating the money raised at Wednesday’s Hawea Community Quiz Night to the Crotty family.

“It’s hard to know what to do, but anyone who has been in a similar situation says there are all sorts of expenses,” she said.

George’s mother Helen works at the International Language Centre at Mount Aspiring College and her colleagues Claire Easterbrook and Jude Faircloth are collecting donations from staff members. A bank account for donations to the family is also being set up at the BNZ in Wanaka.

Fatal crash at Bannockburn A 46-year-old male motorcyclist has died following a collision with a car in Cairnmuir Road, Bannockburn. The crash, which occurred shortly after 6pm on Monday, was attended by St John Ambulance, the fire service and police.

The man, identified on Tuesday as Paul Kidd from Karamea, suffered critical injuries and died en route to Dunedin Hospital. The driver of the car was not injured.

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Steering group seeks views Staff Reporter Wanaka Sun The Queenstown Lakes District Council has released an image of the proposed Wanaka Sports Facility, as another round of consultation gets underway.

The project’s steering gr o up w o uld me e t s p o r ts and community groups individually, to see whether the needs and priorities they signalled in earlier consultation had changed.

The steering group’s Chairman, Duncan Good, said views would be sought on the fact a new aquatic centre in Wanaka was not provided for in the council’s ten-year plan, despite consultation in 2011 identifying it as the Wanaka sporting community’s highest priority.

Indoor courts were a close second on the list of priorities, followed by grass sports fields, outdoor courts and an artificial turf.

There was also an opportunity this month for the entire community to give their views on what should be included

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in stage one of the facility, through a survey on the council’s website.

And there would be an opportunity for members of the public wanting more information to drop in to the Lake Wanaka Centre on Thursday February 27, from 7pm.

The council had budgeted nearly $17 million for stage one of the facility, at the Three Parks greenfield development.

The council had planned for it to be funded by rates, development contributions and grants from funding agencies.

However, the Government had since proposed changes

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to the Local Government Act which would prevent the council from using development contributions.

The council said, if changes to the act went ahead, it would consult the community on other options during this year’s Annual Plan submission process.

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“Battle for our birds” flies locally Jessica Maddock Wanaka Sun There is strong local support for dropping 1080 on an additional half-million hectares of conservation land this year, including in the Mount Aspiring, Haast, Westland and Fiordland areas.

But there was also concern the Government expected the Department of Conservation to fund the work from its already stretched budget, and that a repellent developed to help protect some species from 1080, particularly kea, may not be as effective

as was hoped.

Conservation Minister Nick Smith announced last week what he called the “battle for our birds,” saying it would be DOC’s largest protection programme to date.

It was particularly necessary this year, he said, because a one in ten to 15-year beech mast was predicted. This would drop tonnes of seeds in autumn, triggering a “plague” of rats and stoats which would feed on birds and other species when the seeds germinated.

The expanded 1080 drop would occur in 30 South Island and five North

Island forests, and would increase the amount of conservation land protected from these pests by seven percent, to 12 percent. Last year predator control using 1080 was carried out on 400,000ha of conservation land.

DOC’s pest control work would then continue to be expanded by 50,000ha a year, for the next five years.

Dr Smith said while the operation would cover a record area of land, it did not mean “record use” of 1080.

Improved distribution methods meant the amount of 1080 needed

per hectare had dropped from 30kg to 1kg, and repellents had been developed to protect untargeted species. While the aim was to protect the great spotted, brown and tokoeka kiwi, kaka, kea, whio (blue duck), mohua (yellowhead), kakaraki (orange-fronted parakeet), rock wren, long and short tailed bats and giant snails, other native birds, reptiles, insects and flora would benefit.

Details of exactly where in the forests, and when, the 1080 drops would occur would be finalised in coming months.

inbrief RAAF joins NZ and French forces The Royal Australian Air Force will join the RNZAF and the French Airforce to celebrate Warbirds Over Wanaka’s 25th Anniversary.

The RAAF will fly two Australian Hawk 127 to Wanaka in April for the lightattack fighters’ first appearance at the airshow.

“Because of their advanced technical capabilities and huge power, we are expecting a pretty spectacular display,” airshow Event Manager Mandy Deans said. “They should be able to land here at Wanaka Airport and we are delighted the Australians have given the go-head for them to come.”

Powered by a single Rolls Royce turbofan engine, the two-seater jets can reach speeds of more than 1200kph. The aircraft are mainly used as lead-in fighter trainers to prepare crews to fly the F/A-18 Hornets.

Who’s for it?

Most local organisations spoken to by the Wanaka Sun said New Zealand had little option but to use 1080, if birdsong was to return to its forests.

Forest and Bird Central OtagoLakes Chairperson Mark Ayre, of Wanaka, said 1080 was the best tool the country had at present to fight predators of native species, and research following multiple 1080 drops had proved it was safe.

In areas where 1080 was used, such as the West Coast, there was a marked difference in the amount of birdlife and the ecology of the forests.

However, he was concerned the Government had stated the

$21 million five-year operation had to be funded through the Department of Conservation’s existing budget, which had been slashed to $335 million.

Clyde-based Federated Mountain Clubs Member, Garry Dixon, also supported the 1080 drop, but was worried DOC would be forced to scale back other work to fund the programme.

“There’s no other practical solution at the moment.

“When you go into the back country of Mount Aspiring Park – the more remote areas - the lack of birdlife is stark and really worrying…it’s pretty silent.”

Conservation Minister Nick Smith said the operation would be funded by savings made from the restructure of DOC last year, partnership funding, efficiency gains from improved pest control technology and the economies of scale the large project generated.

Matukituki Charitable Trust Trustee, Gillian Crombie, who lives in both Hawea and Christchurch, also supported the 1080 drop, but was concerned about the potential impact on kea. The latest information the trust had received cast doubt on the effectiveness of a repellent developed to protect certain species from 1080, she said.

Who’s against it?

Few of the vocal anti-1080 groups – and there are several – have Central Otago spokespeople, but those which do expressed concern about several aspects of the massive 1080 drop.

New Zealand Deerstalkers’ Association Upper Clutha Branch President, Dan Orbell, of Wanaka, opposed the operation and was particularly concerned the Government may be scaling back its efforts to find an alternative to 1080.

The Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment, Jan Wright, who recommends the use of 1080,

expressed disappointment last year that DOC was spending more money on researching alternatives to 1080, rather than using it more often.

Dan said there was “sound evidence” 1080 caused kea and kaka “more harm than good,” as well as killing deer, and he hoped the repellents the Government said would be used in conjunction with 1080 would provide some protection.

“I just hope they’ve done their homework and that they continue to do their homework,” he said.

Anti-1080 lobby groups SAFE, the Society for the Prevention of

Cruelty to Animals and Stop 1080 Poison do not have Central Otagobased spokespeople.

SAFE’s national Executive Director, Hans Kriek, said the organisation understood the reasoning behind the Government’s decision, but continued to be concerned about the inhumane and indiscriminate nature of 1080. It also supported research into an alternative to 1080, which focussed on humanity as well as cost effectiveness.

“Is this what we want to do, decade after decade - dump large amounts of poison?”

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sunnews

Rotary and friends Cromwell Rotary Club and friends hosted a barbecue for their RSA friends in the Nevis Valley on Saturday.

About 57 drivers and guests visited the historic Nevis cemetery and settlement, before heading to Ben Nevis Station for an afternoon of music courtesy of The Fine Thyme Singers (pictured).

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Better judgement needed A Queenstown Lakes District Council review into the construction of traffic safety at Cardona in December – which had to be removed immediately because they were a safety hazard - has found better judgment could have avoided unnecessary costs.

“While the proposal of a ‘rumble zone’ of river stones was intended to be an effective and visually pleasing solution, the novelty of the solution was such that alternative options should have been considered in greater detail and presented to the community board for consideration,” Mayor Vanessa van Uden said. “The decision to raise the level of the river stones during the construction stage exacerbated these safety risks, and was a matter that should have been discussed more widely within council prior to the action being taken.”

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sunnews

Strong interest in libraries

Super saloons More than 30 super saloons will compete for the South Island Super Saloons Championship tomorrow night, and in the hotly-contested Elf Super Cup South Island Super Saloon Series on Saturday night, at Central Motor Speedway.

Speedway super saloons and saloons, like sprintcars, are highly sophisticated and expensive race cars.

“Underneath the lightweight fibreglass body panels is a highly complex space-frame chassis, a full race V8 engine, and all manner of other parts such as three-way adjustable shock absorbers and carbon fibre drive shafts,” Cromwell-based former Super Saloon NZ1 driver Shane McIntyre said. “With the exception of the chassis, everything’s imported from specialist manufacturers in the USA.” The Wanaka Sun has a family pass to give away to either the South Island Super Saloons Championship or the Elf Super Cup South Island Super Saloon Series, to the first person to email their contact details to admin@thewanakasun.co.nz.

Caroline Harker Wanaka Sun Despite searing temperatures, about 40 people attended each of two public meetings on Monday evening to discuss what library services would be useful and relevant in the future.

The meetings were held in Wanaka and Hawea and were chaired by the QLDC’s Director of the Chief Executive’s Office, Meaghan Miller.

Wanaka Public Libraries Association representative and Libraries Task Force member, Jan Janata, attended both meetings.

“People expressed a broad range of wonderful ideas,” she said. “There was huge support for the concept of the library as a community asset, and the need to keep it vibrant with a good balance of resources. It was good to hear [Mayor] Vanessa [van Uden] say categorically the libraries will not close. They were very positive meetings.”

Jan said the next Libraries Task Force meeting is in Wanaka on February 10. Locals on the task force include Rachel Brown, Paul Tamati and

ticketgiveaway

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Florence Micoud.

Monday’s public meetings followed a month-long council survey on library services, which received more than 1750 responses.

“We’ve had some very valuable feedback about opening hours and the kinds of services that people find most useful,” Vanessa said.

More than 95 percent

of those who completed the survey were existing library members.

The range of books and the helpfulness and friendliness of staff were rated highly in importance in the survey responses. Other factors which also ranked highly were the availability of books, opening hours and accessibility.

Common suggestions

for additional services and facilities included a coffee shop; free or cheap wifi; a better online database; meeting and activity spaces; self-operated check-outs and book discussion groups.

There was only 55 percent awareness that members can borrow e-books and 42 percent awareness that information about the

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Council and its services Could be accessed at libraries.

Views on charging for library services varied.

The majority (88 percent) like the current system; 48 percent wanted free services for residents and ratepayers with all costs covered by rates; and nine percent said they preferred an annual membership fee.

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sunnews

inbrief Winter gardening Dr Compost is holding his last QLDC-funded “Get Growing” workshop in Wanaka before winter, on Tuesday February 18, from6pm to 8pm at Aspiring Beginnings.

Find out how to keep harvesting all winter long, and plant now for fresh, free vegetables. Novice through to experienced gardeners are welcome (gold coin donation).

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“Pinot pope” comes to Central Caroline Harker Wanaka Sun A local vineyard hosted a contingent of 40 national and international winemakers and wine writers last week. The guests were some of the 200 delegates at the tenth Central Otago Pinot Noir Celebration which included master classes, wine tastings, meals and visits to vineyards. The group visiting Mount Maude Vineyard was hosted by Dawn and Terry Wilson and Maude winemakers SarahKate and Dan Dineen.

“This is a great way to start 2014 because this year we are celebrating Mount Maude vineyard’s 20th birthday,” Sarah-Kate told the guests. Their meal was cooked by local chef Leungo Lippe and featured local produce including Minaret Station venison carpaccio, Stewart Island salmon, Cardrona merino lamb, Carrick Vineyard honeycomb, Whitestone Lindis Pass brie and Dawn’s crackers, all matched with local wines (rose, chardonnay, pinot noir and riesling).

PHOTO: ALPINE IMAGE COMPANY

Winemaker Dan Dineen said the guests sampled 2007 pinot noir from Mount Maude, Carrick, Folding Hill (Bendigo) and Chard Farm. “The ’07 pinot opened up beautifully and everyone was suitably impressed,” Dan said.

This was the first time Maude has hosted a lunch as part of the celebrations.

Other wineries hosting delegate lunches this year were Northburn, Two Paddocks, Akarua and Amisfield. Dan said the event always builds on

Central Otago’s good name.

“The wineries here are very collaborative, which can be unusual in wine regions,” he said. “It’s not about pushing your own wine – it’s about showcasing the region. It’s a celebration of Central Otago on the world stage.”

A highlight for local winemakers this year was the visit of a delegation from Burgundy, led by coowner and winemaker of Domaine de la RomaneeConti, Aubert de Villaine.

“He makes the best pinot

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in the world,” Dan said.

“He’s the pinot pope, and it was a real coup that Nick [Mills, Rippon Vineyard] got him here.”

The French delegation gave a presentation on its bid to have Burgundy recognised as a Unesco world heritage site.

“They hosted tastings of six Burgundy wines including Aubert’s Echezeaux which sells for approximately $1500 a bottle,” Dan said. “It was superb.”

sunnews

Behind the scenes at Rippon Caroline Harker Wanaka Sun ... Continued from page 1 Anna’s main helpers were Jools Hall and Gemma Wigley.

“We put a lot of extra effort into the visuals and lighting as part of the tenth festival celebrations,” Anna said. She has been working on Rippon 2014 with Lynne since June last year, doing everything from administration to artist liaison.

During the festival itself, her focus was backstage hospitality.

This included looking after the

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artists in the Rippon Hall and in two “green room” tents on either side of the main stage.

“The artists love it – they say it’s the best backstage location ever,” Anna said. “You don’t get a green room with a view like that anywhere else.”

The festival was held at Rippon vineyard overlooking Lake Wanaka. It was one of the hottest days of the summer to date, however, a water slide, a “massive” hydro fan (supplied by local sculptor Peter Arkass) and water sprayed onto the crowd from either side of the stage helped keep people cool.

review Rippon festival 2014 They pulled it off yet again. The tenth Rippon festival, held on Saturday February 1, surpassed expectations. Bands included prominent Kiwi acts such as Fat Freddy’s Drop and Homebrew, with other groups making up an eclectic mix ranging from soul pop to punk rock. Wellington bands featured heavily this year, and two born-and-bred Wanaka locals featured: Fabian Shaw of The Digg and Martine Harding of Arma Del Amor.

Nearly 4000 people attended Wanaka’s most loved festival, but 2014 was the first year the event has not sold out. Organisers said this could be a result of the arrival of the Rhythm and Alps festival (held over New Year in the Cardrona Valley), and some locals complained about higher ticket prices.

For the second time, another stage was used, in the Rippon Hall, available exclusively for Gold Members who were happy to

pay a premium for the privilege.

Festival Director Lynne Christie has nursed Rippon since its conception in 1998, when nine acts played (compared to 18 this year).

Despite 30 degrees Celsius heat, festival-goers and artists had a great time. Guitarist for Wellington-based psychedelic surf band, The Digg Fabian Shaw, said “Although the line-up was really diverse this year, the common theme was awesome

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music, thoughtful hospitality and great people. Rippon has definitely been the highlight of our year so far.”

Fans are hoping Rippon will be back in 2016 with more great bands, great times and great vibes to be had.

Proceeds from the festival go towards musical and environmental initiatives in the region.

- Maddy Harker

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sunnews GigaNews: All questions answered

crimescene

Staff Reporter Wanaka Sun

Disorderly behaviour

The #GigatownWanaka team will be on hand next week to answer any Gigatown questions and help people get involved with the competition.

Project Co-ordinator GemmaStudholmewillbe set up in the Lake Wanaka TourismGigatownWanaka kiosk, on the corner of Helwick and Ardmore streets from 11am to 1pm every day next week. She will be helping people

set up Facebook and Twitter accounts and teaching them how to post and tweet. She will alsohavemoreinformation on how people can get involved and support #GigatownWanaka.

Police received a report of threatening behaviour at a Kingston Street address on January 27.

A person was arrested for disorderly behaviour and assaulting a police officer on January 31. Another person was arrested for threatening to kill during a domestic incident on Mount Iron Drive on February 1.

On the same day, an intoxicated person was arrested for trespass when they refused to leave the Rippon music festival. After the festival, two people were apprehended for excess breath alcohol on Mount Aspiring Road.

PHOTO: NIKKI HEATH

Welcome for new principal

Back to school Wanaka Police are rigorously enforcing speed limits around schools and school buses as children return to school this week.

The Holy Family Catholic School’s new principal, Jo McKay, was buzzing yesterday, after her first three days on the job.

“It has been fantastic. I’ve been welcomed by the families and the school children. I’m very happy to be here.”

Jo came to the Holy Family Catholic School from Saint Paul’s Catholic School in Richmond, near Nelson.

She and her husband and two daughters moved to Wanaka during the middle of last month and were settling in well, she said.

It was too early to say whether she planned to make any changes at the primary school.

On Sunday, one person was apprehended for driving whilst forbidden and a vehicle was impounded.

If you have information on any crimes call 0800CRIMESTOPPER (0800555111).

Correction: Wanaka Green Waste and Landscape Supplies run the green waste disposal facility which is open from 10am to 3pm on weekdays and 10am to 4pm on the weekend.

PHOTO: WANAKA.TV

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sunnews

Have a go session Wanaka Yacht Club is hosting a “have a go” session today (Thursday) from 9am to 12pm. No previous experience is required and the club will be using both big and small yachts.

PHOTO: WANAKA SUN

Oska on the run The season is “going great” for local athlete Oska Inkster-Baynes who has already won the Auckland Half Marathon and the Otago 10,000m race.

Oska has just returned from competing at the nationals in the North Island. Over ten days he raced in the 800m, 1600m, 3000m and 10,000m distances and was placed fifth, eighth, third and fourth respectively, “running a personal best in PHOTO: SUPPLIED every race”.

“I’m about to head to the Snow Farm for six weeks of altitude training and will race at the international track meet in Christchurch (February 22),” he said.

Oska is also preparing for the 5000m national championships at the end of March and said his main goals are the Christchurch half marathon in June and the Melbourne half marathon in October.

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THURSDAY 06.02.14 - WEDNESDAY 12.02.14

sunviews

TXT MESSAGE

BOARD HAPPY, HAPPY, SMILEY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY GORGEOUS MAIA GIRL. WE CAN’T WAIT TO SEE YOU IN JUNE XX YOUR FAIRY GODPARENTS. WHY DOES EVERYONE SEEM TO CONGREGATE OUTSIDE THE FRONT ENTRANCE OF THE SUPER MARKET . HAVEN`T YOU GOT A HOME TO GO. WANAKA AMBASSADORS: IMAGINE WHOLE TOWN USING 3 METRE RULE! ALREADY WORKING WONDERS! HOW ABOUT TEACHERS AT WPS PARK ON KINGS DRIVE AND FREE UP PARKING NEAR SCHOOL FOR PARENTS AND VISITORS TO THE SCHOOL? HELP WITH CONGESTION AT BUSY TIMES AND SAVE CURB AND GRASS VERGE PARKING. YOUTH IS LIKE SPRING, AN OVER-PRAISED SEASON MORE REMARKABLE 4 BITING WINDS THAN GENIAL BREEZES. AUTUMN IS THE MELLOWER SEASON, AND WHAT WE LOSE IN FLOWERS WE MORE THAN GAIN IN FRUITS.

EDITORIAL All eyes will be on Russia as the 2014 Winter Olympics officially start tomorrow with the opening ceremony and Wanaka’s home grown athletes take to the biggest stage in winter sports.

With the introduction of freeski slopestyle and freeski halfpipe, locals could be welcoming home a Winter Olympic medal winner. First up on our television screens for the Wanaka supporters is Stefi Luxton competing today in the snowboard slopestyle qualifications. Two members of Wanaka’s favourite freeskiing family will begin their Winter Olympic competitions from next Wednesday (Jossi and Beau-James Wells will be competing in freeski slopestyle qualifications).

Meanwhile in Wanaka, nurturing our future sports stars begins with providing the proper facilities. A Wanaka Sports Facility Steering Group questionnaire, released online this week, seeks information from potential users of the proposed facilities on what should be included in Stage one. It is the community’s opportunity to prioritise the needs of the current and future sports community, and dedicate a space to the development of future sports stars, as well as the casual competitor.

THE DUCK SIGN DEBATE IS A REAL QUACK UP. WE ALL KNOW THE ONLY GOOD DUCK IS MOIST AND TENDER ON THE INSIDE WITH A CRISPY SKIN YOU’RE : IS A CONTRACTION OF TWO WORDS: YOU ARE. SO IF YOU DON’T MEAN TO SAY ‘YOU ARE’ DON’T TYPE YOU’RE. YOUR: IS THE POSSESSIVE FORM OF YOU. WHILE I’M ON THIS GRAMMAR BUZZ: “THIS WEEK’S SPECIALS” NEEDS AN APOSTROPHE. OTHERWISE YOU ARE WRONG, WRONG, WRONG! WOOP WOOP! CONGRATULATIONS V&JK, WE’RE DELIGHTED TO BE SHARING YOUR AWESOME SPECIAL DAY WITH YOU. BIG LOVE FROM FRIDAY CLUB!!

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.

TXT THE WANAKA SUN

021 986 786

Volunteer abused I was very disappointed to hear that one of our young female volunteers was subjected to abuse while promoting the #GigatownWanaka project at New World recently. She was giving up her time to collect email addresses to support the cause, so that this town might have a chance of winning the competition and become the first town in the southern hemisphere to have a one gigabit internet connection - something that will benefit us all.

However, while standing near the entrance of New World, she was verbally abused by two males. This probably means that these men who took it upon themselves to do this suffer from either extreme ignorance or a literacy problem, as they couldn’t read what this is all about when our volunteer was talking to them. #GigatownWanaka is run by a group of volunteers who spend hours of their time trying to keep Wanaka in the number one spot in the Chorus competition, and it’s a shame to hear about local people taking such a negative approach. If the people concerned - or anyone else questioning the Gigatown cause - would like to discuss this with me, I’d be happy to talk about it further.

Thanks to all those who regularly support #GigatownWanaka on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter - let’s keep it up and hopefully this town will be renowned for its innovation, technology and business - as well as its scenic beauty. Not to mention its positive, considerate residents!

Pete Marshall

Issue 647 Thursday February 06, 2014 Free delivery to Wanaka, Wanaka surrounds and Cromwell urban and rural mailboxes, PO boxes in Makarora, Cromwell, Haast, Wanaka, Albert Town, Hawea. Distributed to motels, hotels and cafes plus businesses in the Wanaka central business district and to drop boxes in Wanaka and Cromwell.

Phone: 03 443 5252 Fax: 03 443 5250 Text view: 021 986 786 Text classified: 022 0786 778 Address: Upstairs Spencer House, Wanaka Postal: PO Box 697, Wanaka Editorial manager: Ruth Bolger editor@thewanakasun.co.nz Journalists: Jessica Maddock journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz Caroline Harker newsdesk@thewanakasun.co.nz Production: Adam Hall production@thewanakasun.co.nz Advertising: Amanda Hodge advertising@thewanakasun.co.nz Jake Kilby marketing@thewanakasun.co.nz Accounts: admin@thewanakasun.co.nz Printed by: Guardian Print, Ashburton Delivered by: Wanaka Rowing Club Published by: Wanaka Sun (2003) Ltd Distribution: 7500

write to the editor Let the community know your views, email your letter to: editor@thewanakasun.co.nz *200 words or less

THURSDAY 06.02.14 - WEDNESDAY 12.02.14

PAGE 13

sunclassifieds

Classifieds body and mind

employment

for sale

services

SPIRITUAL HEALING. Release pain, health problems, limitations and old patterns. Phone Robyn 027 678 7731.

EXPERIENCED WAITERS required for exclusive catering company.CV’s to Lucy@aspiringcatering.co.nz

WANAKA DISTRICTS Club, for affordable family dining and great bar prices. Join for just $20 per year.

WINDSCREEN CHIP REPAIR specialists. Usually free with insurance. Wanaka on Wednesdays & we’re mobile! Call Dan 027 349 2447

ASPIRING MASSAGE WANAKA. Deep Tissue - Relaxation. Trevor Bailey. Full time massage since 1994. Ph 4432993 or 0274222455. www. aspiringmassagewanaka.co.nz

DUTY MANAGER wanted for restaurant in wanaka. Contact 0212694394

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for sale

SMALL GROUP African safaris. call Irene Active Africa 034452323 activeadventuretours@gmail.com

LAMININE SUPER healing food of the 21st century. Listen to http://www.healingsuperfood. com/phyllis-interview.mp3 Helping everybody at every level. Jan Rockliff 0276 412 019, Sonia Hunt 0212 487 771, Jodie Rainsford 021 356 343

HOUSE FOR PRIVATE SALE ideal rental investment, holiday house or first home. 8 Reid Ave, Luggate. Phone 443 1596 (no agents thanks).

FRIDGE FREEZER (F&P) small top freezer. 630 mm W, 650 D, 1680 H. 406 L. $80. Ph 4436463, 021 1101160

MASSAGE THERAPY. Neuromuscular therapy and sports massage. Robyn Clements Dip. Massage phone 027 678 7731.

DRY NITES,PYJAMA pants,nappies, boys jnr $5 pkt ph debs 4434577,0273066120

AUTUMN REVIVE Retreat - For the love of vibrant food! 5 Night Revive Stay www.nirvanaretreat.co.nz or call 4432252 for details.

SWAMP THING & Minnie Marks Australia Luggate Hotel Garden Bar Sunday Feb 9th 4 pm Tix $20 pre sale special

MASSAGE THERAPY. Neuromuscular therapy and sports massage. Robyn Clements Dip massage ph 0276787731

HONDA CRV 4WD wagon 2003. 2.4 petrol iVTEC. NZ new 143k. Super clean, excellent condition, $11, 600. 034453317

SPIRITUAL HEALING. Release pain, health issues, limitations and old patterns. Phone Robyn 0276787731

RIDE-ON MOWER DIXON zero turn radius 3014 Good condition, grass catcher, makes mowing fun! $1500 034453317

A BOWEN treatment from Lyn Brown 4437388 www.naturalhealthwanaka.co.nz. Cathy Rogers 02102201898 www.lakesbowentherapy.com highly recommended to help heal/harmonize your body

SURROUND SOUND system. Denon and Tannoy 5:1 speaker system. Excellent condition in original boxes $300. 0215506591

HU SONG at Wanaka Wellness Centre this thursday 6th Feb 5.30pm to 6pm All welcome Gold coin donation Ph 4437388 www.eckankar.husong.org ABHYANGA MASSAGE or an Ayurvedic treatment: A unique experience of self-healing and relaxation. Call Martin 443 5712, www.ayurvedaora.com MASSAGE THERAPY. Sports-,Deep tissue,Relaxation-,Pregnancy massage. Effective and rejuvenating. Ursula Krebs, Dip. Massage Therapist CH/NZ. Phone: 027 6602271.

R E F L E X O L O G Y for Mind Body & Soul.

Relax while I rub your soles! www.soleutionsreflexology.com Jo 0276522144 Home & Clinic PREGNANCY PILATES Mat class pre & postnatal $12 or $15 casual. call Julie 027-4057119 info@cashmerepilates.co.nz PILATES MAT Class authentic Joseph Pilates exercises. $12 or $15 casual. call Julie 027405-7119 info@cashmerepilates.co.nz CONNECT WITH passed loved ones 5 Feb from 7-9PM in Wanaka with experienced psychic medium Miriana Fowler. Details & $25 tickets at 022 097 4596!

KYOKUSHIN KARATE. Adults 7.15pm Tuesdays at the Scout Den, Eely Point. www. kyokushinnz.co.nz

ENGLISH COCKER Spaniel purebred pups for sale, 6 weeks old, 021 116 5093 GARAGE SALE 48a nichol st lake hawea - sat 8th feb 8am gas heater, dehumidifier, snowboard, clothing, DVDs plus more THE ORIGINAL compost tumbler. Perfect condition. $150 0274400504 SPECIALIZED MTB great older model, still in good condition. Quick sale $275 0274400504 ONKYO SURROUND sound system. Subwoofer, 2 tower speakers, 2 surround speakers, centre speaker and awesome receiver. $500 0274400504 NIKON D60 camera and lenses bag tripod $275 excellent beginner pak. 0274400504 POULTRY WHEAT and barley 4 sale, whole or crushed.30kg 4 $25.. .. 021 251 5510/4434944.

FREE ORGANIC skincare samples for YOU from TRUE, Wanaka’s local skincare brand. Txt/ Ph 0272 577792 TRUE REJUVENATE Range:- powered with our signature Truoxidant blend of natures superfruits. Pomegranate, Rosehip, Blackcurrant, Seabuckthorn berry and Raspberry seed oils.

GOLDEN LEMON butter from Pirate Pickles at the Wanaka farmers market, 3-6PM every Thursday Pembroke Park SUBARU OUTBACK for sale. Trade me listing 684477498.

HOT YOGA - We use Far Infrared heaters!

Come get a great sweat on & an awesome full body workout! Check our schedule www.hotyogafusion.co.nz

PONY POO - Gold for your garden! 7/4 trailer load $30 delivered ph/txt Grace or Julia 4434494, 0275091972

HOT YOGA FUSION! LOCALS INTRO - $35 for one week unlimited membership! Please bring proof of address. For info ph/text 022HOTYOGA

FAT BIKE frenzy! Surly Pugsley is the monster truck of bicycles. Now at Good Rotations Bicycles, 34 Anderson Rd, 034434349

AUTUMN REVIVE Retreat - For the love of vibrant food! 5 Night Revive Stay www.nirvanaretreat.co.nz or call 4432252 for details.

SUPER CUTE and smart puppies available for adoption from Dogs Wanaka. Check them out at www.facebook.com/dogswanaka

ABHYANGA MASSAGE or another Ayurvedic treatment. A unique experience of self healing and relaxation. Call Martin on 4435712

BEAUTIFUL CHINA tea cup bird feeders, great for attracting wax eyes and bell birds to your garden. Make the perfect presents $25 ph or txt 021680110

employment DUTY MANAGER Wanted for Wanaka Districts Club, Call Noel on 0274299330 .

ELLERSLIE FLOWER Show Tour.

Join a 4 day journey to the famous Ellerslie Flower Show in Christchurch $1059pp twinshare. Call 0800487488

For FREE listing text your advert to

CYCLING, TREKKING and motor bike adventures to Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Myanmar.te 034552323 activeadventuretours@gmail.com HORSE GRAZING/AGISTMENT use of facilities & riding area including all weather arena.

On site owner close to Wanaka. Happy to discuss Juliat@ihug.co.nz 0275091972 GIBBSTON VALLEY concert. Hassel free transport from Wanaka to the Concert.

Contact events@centralbus.co.nz or 0800 487 488 to book.

ATTENTION MUSICIANS! Come and busk at the bustling Farmer’s Market on Thursdays.

Phone or txt 021 265 3753 to book your date.

BEAUTIFUL BICYCLES - no lycra. Good Rotations Bicycle Shop, 34 Anderson Rd, www.goodrotations.co CARGO BIKES invading Wanaka Streets!

Come and check out what it’s all about, 34 Anderson Rd, Good Rotations Bicycles CENTRAL OTAGO Sports Awards Nominations close on March 7 and nomination forms are available by contacting Bill Godsall on (03) 445 1142 or 021 442 626 or by emailing him at bgodsall@sportotago.co.nz LIFE STORIES writing and book design.

Memoirs, histories, letters, diaries - transcribed and published. www.timeofyourlife. co.nz. Contact laura@timeofyourlife.co.nz or 443 4629.

HANDYMAN. OPERATING for seven year in Wanaka. 0272080175 ENGINEERING & repairs. Handy Solutions 0272080175 ALL TYPES of fencing and gates. Handy Solutions 0272080175 / 4434078 VASECTOMYS AVAILABLE here in Wanaka with Dr Simon Brebner at Aspiring Medical Centre.Ph 443 1226 for an appointment to discuss.

NEED A HAND IN YOUR GARDEN or someone to look after your property whlle your away? Call Martin Jungen 4435712 CLASSIC MOTORCYCLE restoration – for all motorcycle maintenance. Tyres, oil, batteries, chains and brakes. Top brands, top service, pick-up and delivery. Contact John Holgate 0274322917

wanted OLD SNOW boards wanted to make garden furniture. Call or text for free pick up. 021 186 9142 TWO BED apartment/house in Wanaka wanted to rent from February. Please call Antony on 022 614 9192.

HOUSE RENTAL needed from now until Easter for 1 careful tenant and 2 cats please contact Amanda 021 680 110 WANTED - House swap this winter. Fancy a week in Auckland at the stunning Cheltenham beach? 10 mins to Britomart (Auckland Central) on the ferry. Stunning 3/4 bed villa (with car!) on beach front street (Rata Rd). Anytime late July - August. Call Mary on 021 615 007

DOGS WANAKA desperately needs donations to help vaccinate, microchip, register and spay the puppies and kittens in our care. www. facebook.com/dogswanaka

what’s on

rent

DR COMPOST Wanaka “Harvest veggies through the winter” workshop: Tuesday February 18, 6-8pm at Aspiring Beginnings, Warren St.

ONE BEDROOM studio unit available from 2feb2014 close to town . Contact 0212694394

services

SWAMP THING & Minnie Marks Australia Luggate Hotel Garden Bar Sunday Feb 9th 4 pm Tix $20 venue & eventfinder door sales $25

INLAND REVENUE are at Community Networks Wednesday 26 February 9am - 1pm,For help with personal or business tax,child support,student loans or family tax credits call 4437799 to make an appointment.

PERCEPTION EVENING each Wed 7PM at Wanaka Wellness Centre. Always something cool on exploring consciousness and connection! $5 donation.

JP SERVICES at Community Networks Tuesdays1pm and Fridays 10.30.For appointments call 4437799

15 FEB NURTURING HEARTSPACE 1-Day Retreat. Ayurvedic food & education, yoga & quartz crystal bowl sound therapy! $44 tickets & details 022 097 4596.

WHEELS TO DUNSTAN:Free daily transport to Dunstan Hospital & Alexandra specialist appointments,Bookings call 4437799

WANAKA FARMERS Market on Pembroke Park every Thursday from 3-6 pm

SUPERANNUATION DO you need to apply? You can do it at Community Networks Wednesday 12 February, Call 443 7799 for an appointment.

FREE BUDGET ADVICE at Community Networks Wednesday 12 February.For appointments call 4437799.

MORTGAGE REPAYMENT insurance get a quote online PLUS house, contents www. bradleynuttallsouth.instantcover.co.nz

ANNA VAN Riel is proud to launch her Wanaka-made album at the old Nook Rd Nursery, 7pm Fri 7th. By Donation. Indoors.

Bring fold out chair.

‘COMMUNICATE FOR LIFE’ two day Personal Development course. Learn invaluable life skills in this award winning course. March 22/23 www.yourlifeliveit.com | jodie@yourlifeliveit.com LALALAND WANAKA. Great drinks on our outdoor deck with lake views. Open daily 4pm – late. Level 1, 99 Ardmore Street.

HEDGE TRIMMING.WEED eating.lawn edging.lawn mowing .rubbish removale.good rates.free quotes.wanaka and areas please phone john on 02108449623.i will be straight round

02 20 786 778

20 word limit - deadline Tuesday 4pm - standard network rates apply PAGE 14

THURSDAY 06.02.14 - WEDNESDAY 12.02.14

sunclassifieds employment

employment

sport results BRIDGE RESULTS: Championship Pairs 1. Silver Section.

North/South:- Lynne Fegan, Maggie Stratford 61.55% 1.

Sherril Harries, Mo Schofield 59.72% 2. Clare Scurr, AnnLouise Stokes 59.03% 3. East/ West:- Errol Kelly, Ian McDonald 68.06% 1. Allan Kelly, Georgie Roberts 66.67% 2.

Marion Furneaux, Jenny Pryde 59.20%3.

Bronze Section:North/South: George Foreman, Jane Hawkey 54.77%1. Noeline Goldsbrough, Heather Wellman 53.91% 2. Lesley Hook, Carole Turner 52.86% 3. East/ West:- Julie Mulholland, Kate Summers 57.44% 1. Lawrie & Margaret Stenhouse 51.49% 2.

Alan & Wendy Cruden 50.99% 3.

Friday Bridge 31January. North / South:- David Brewer, Deirdre Lynch 57.92% 1. Joy MartinFrew, Judy Russell 57.08% 2.

Madeleine Reveley, Jenny Muir 56.88% 3. East/West:- Josey McKenzie, Shona Johnstone 60.00% 1. Lynne Fegan, Maggie Stratford 59.55% 2. Margaret Hunt, Lynda Hodge 57.95% 3.

trades&services CONCRETE CUTTING

LAKE HAWEA GOLF RESULTS 2.2.14. OPENING DAY - RABBIT STABLEFORDS 1 Steve Innes & Neal Brown 113, 2 Stew Burt & Nick Stabbins 107, 3 Rick Johnston & Linda Osborne 106, 4 Tony Ascott & Kahu Vincent 101.

Closest Pin. no 1. Steve Innes, no 5 Kahu Vincent. Twos Steve Innes no 10 & 18. Rick Johnston no 10, Neil Matchett no 5.

PANELBEATING

CURTAINS

WANAKA BOWLS RESULTS Friday Progressive 31:01:14 Skip 1 Betty Russell 2 Trevor Tovey 3 Brian Holmes, Third 1 Iain Fletcher 2 Dot Roper 3 Steve Roper, Lead 1 Sandy Morris 2 Charles Kiewiet

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THURSDAY 06.02.14 - WEDNESDAY 12.02.14

PAGE 15

sunsport Hockey meeting

Best ever results Staff Reporter Wanaka Sun The Wanaka Rowing Club returned from the South Island Club Championships at Twizel with its best medal haul, yet three gold medals and one silver - in a single major championship regatta.

Riley Bruce (pictured) won three gold medals in five hours. In the first race of the day, Riley and his double’s partner Nathan Redai won the boys’ under-16 double sculls final by 12 seconds.

Riley’s second race was the boys’ under-17 single. He rowed strongly against tough opposition to take the lead in the final quarter from the second-placed sculler Matthew Beveridge from Ashburton. In his third

The Upper Clutha Hockey Club will be holding its AGM and 2014 season planning meeting next Thursday.

Last season the club grew to almost 100 playing members, from the five to six-year-old teams to the senior players.

Club president Rich King said the highlights of the season were the five to six-year-old team, the Jaguars, winning the Central Otago league title for the first time and the senior women making the cup final.

The club welcomes new players every year, and this year in particular is looking for more boys, at all age levels, to play. The club also hopes to recruit males over the age of 16 to play for the senior men’s team.

Training takes place on the old primary school turf in Warren Street and matches are mostly played in Cromwell.

Rich said anyone interested in playing hockey or supporting the club is encouraged to go to the meeting.

See sunspots for details

race, Riley rowed in the men’s club grade. He took a halfway lead, alondside Timaru’s James Walker, two boat lengths clear of the rest of the competition.

Riley moved a length clear of James in the last 500m and won his third gold medal of the day.

In the boys’ under-16 single, Nathan Redai, in a sprint to the finish line, secured second place by 0.4 seconds to gain his first individual medal in a single scull.

The girls’ under-16 squad continued to improve. The highlight was a fourth place finish for Olivia Pearce and Helena Crawford in the B final, and Maddie Ball and Bridie Hurley finishing seventh.

Saturday’s cricket

PHOTO: EACHANN BRUCE

Big course suits local athletes Staff Reporter Wanaka Sun The big and challenging features of the slopestyle course could prove advantageous to the New Zealand athletes at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia.

Head Coach Tom Willmott said the big jumps would provide athletes with extra airtime and an opportunity to achieve more technical manoeuvres.

“For some of the more experienced athletes, like Jossi [Wells], for sure, it’s an advantage. He can be very

creative on the rails, working his way through the different features and working out something that will stand out.

It’s pretty exciting,” Tom said.

“The course is definitely at the bigger end of things but comparable to some of the other courses we’ve experienced. There

Nominations open for sports awards Staff Reporter Wanaka Sun Nominations are open for the 2014 House of Travel Central Otago Sports Awards.

Awards Co-ordinator Bill Godsall said it was important clubs and individuals got

PAGE 16

their nominations in, regardless of whether they thought the athlete was good enough.

The judging panel, led

by Central Otago District Mayor Tony Lepper, will choose the top five in each of the categories – senior sportsman and sportswoman, junior

sportsman and woman, team and coach – which will be judged in their respective category. The winner of each category will then vie for the supreme award.

Nominations close on March 7.

See sunspots for details

was nothing too surprising, but it’s definitely on the challenging side.”

Stefi Luxton will be the first Wanaka athlete to compete at the Winter Olympics when the ladies’ snowboard slopestyle qualifications begin today (11pm NZDT).

Albion Reserves played Dunstan High School last weekend, and lost by one wicket. Albion made 113, with Sean Nugent and JD Bowman making 23.

Dunstan was 70 for 3, then 105 for 9, with Tom Miles taking two wickets for 18 runs and Mike O’Connor taking six wickets for six runs, but Dunstan made the 113 target, winning off the last ball of the match.

The Albion Senior team had a narrow, ten-run win over Cromwell.

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Smoothy on top Freeskier Sam Smoothy (Cromwell) has won gold, with a score of 86.50, at the third stop of the Freeride World Tour in Kappl, Austria.

“It’s been a while between Freeride World Tour podiums,” Sam said. His best FWT season was in 2012, when he won three medals. “It was a massive bonus to take a win here, I couldn’t be happier.”

His win in Kappl moves him into second place on the overall FWT rankings.

THURSDAY 06.02.14 - WEDNESDAY 12.02.14