The Wanaka Sun

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Thur 19.01.12 - wed 25.01.12

inside:

Little winners page 2

Rabbits run rife

And they’re off...

page 4

PHOTO: wanaka.tv

Fire hazard prompts action Tim Brewster

Out for summer page 7

Windy new year page 15

Read online:

www.thewanakasun.co.nz

Tinder dry conditions, arcing power lines near branches and dense stands of kanuka on sections due to council consent requirements and personal choice are causing serious concerns for residents of the Mount Iron area.

The threat of fire which could potentially engulf the Little Mount Iron subdivisions of Kanuka Rise and Mount Iron Heights in a matter of minutes has prompted a group of residents to start trialling an alarm paging system to be installed in houses and linked to the fire brigade.

At a meeting organised by the residents last year, local firefighters and Department of Conservation officers, who are the fire authority for the area, presented a model taking into account foliage type, wind effect and steepness of slope.

The model showed that if a fire started in the Hikuwai Reserve with a 60kph north westerly breeze to fan it, it could take only ten minutes to travel the kilometre to Aubrey Road before starting its ascent up through the populated hillside subdivisions of Mount Iron Heights, Kanuka Rise and Rockhaven.

PHOTO: TIM BREWSTER

With the current amount of kanuka density and the 15 to 20 degree slope of the hillside, the fire service’s modelling system has it covering the 500m from Aubrey Road to the peak of Little Mount Iron in around three minutes.

“It’s a worst case scenario,” Paul Hondelink, one of DOC’s three rural fire officers said, “but we can

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have the fire risk at full alert with a total fire ban for three months at a time.”

Because of the speed of the fire spreading, it is unlikely fire engines would be in a position to respond quickly enough and would not proceed up the hill ahead of the fire for safety reasons. “We don’t send men in ahead of a fire going uphill.”

Another factor is the narrow driveways with the potential for meeting vehicles coming down the hill and blocking the road which leaves no other way out.

He said the majority of fire scenarios are based around being started by people camping or having a barbecue in the lake outlet or Hikawai reserve areas and haven’t taken into account other accidents such as fires started by cigarette butts or power lines arcing against trees which is the suspected reason for the recent fire on Mount Iron.

He said the main concern, the amount of highly volatile kanuka on the hillside, is something DOC and the fire service have little control over. The trees are under QLDC authority and individuals like to have trees around their houses for shade and privacy. story continues on page 3

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sunnews

For cod’s sake

Little winners

A large number of gutted blue cod carcasses were dumped at Eely Point last Thursday. The fish remains were reported to Queenstown Lakes District harbourmaster Marty Black by a member of the public. Those responsible for the dumping could face a fine and Marty is asking the public to help him locate the offender.

PHOTO: QLDC

Crash victims named They are Chin-Yuan Chang, 29, of Taiwan and Ting Ting Mo, 25, of China. The crash occurred at the intersection of State Highway 8B and State Highway 6 in Cromwell, when Chang failed to give way to a local New Zealand Courier van when he turned right out of the intersection last Thursday.

There has been a high crash rate at the T-intersection in recent years and the New Zealand Transport Agency is currently considering reducing the speed limit from 100kmh to 80kmh for 300m on either side of the intersection, in the hope the lower speed limit will provide more judgement time for drivers.

PHOTO: INFINITY IMAGES

Six-year-old Tarras girl Billie Willson and her welsh pony Woodrow Ambassador (Woody) won the champion lead rein pony at Lake Hayes on Saturday. Woody also competed successfully in the first ridden section ridden by Billie’s eight-year-old brother Jack. The Willson family travelled from the Lindis Valley to compete.

The 75th Annual Upper Clutha A & P Show will be held at the Wanaka Showgrounds on the lakefront on Friday and Saturday March 9 and 10.

‘E’ intentions for trampers

Out with old intentions form and in with the new ‘e-form’ (right).

Tim Brewster A new online ‘intentions’ system to track late or lost trampers more effectively is starting this month.

Replacing the old intention’s notices filled in at DOC field centres the New Zealand “Outdoors Intentions’ form has a comprehensive list of information to fill in about the identity of the travelling party, medical conditions, contact details, type of emergency equipment, intended route, dates and other details.

The form is passed on or emailed to a trusted contact who is then requested to contact the police if they are unable to contact the party at a designated time.

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Available through the adventuresmart website and managed by the Mountain Safety Council the new form and notification system is going to be promoted this summer as a more effective means for trampers to take more responsibility for their trip, Wanaka DOC office communications manager Annette Grieve said.

The old system of intention forms being filled in and kept at DOC offices will be phased out this summer and it is hoped the new method will provide more immediate information and responses for missing parties.

DOC has been working with the Mountain Safety Council, LandSAR and the police and will inform visitors to their information centres about the new intentions system.

Thursday 19 January to Wednesday 25 January 2012

sunnews continued from front page

“We’re the fire authority but we’re a bit hamstrung. We are not authorized to remove foliage.”

Residents were also given information on how to reduce the potential for a fire, including a blanket ban on open fires in their backyards.

Mount Iron Heights resident and spokesperson for the group assessing the alarm system, Kris Vollebregt, said a number of initiatives including the current testing of pager systems have been taken since they first met a year ago.

A prominent “fire dial” sign, currently set to extreme, has been installed by the QLDC and the fire service on Aubrey Road. Residents are responsible to keep growth down around it.

Following the meeting DOC have

said residents have complained to electricity supplier Delta, who lease the lines on behalf of electricity distributor Aurora. Delta rate the hazardous vegetation on a scale of zero to seven depending on how close the vegetation is to the power lines, with zero being within 25cm. They then approach the landowners about vegetation removal. Delta’s general manager for asset management Adam Fletcher said the process around tree removals can be complex with various factors around ownership and “interest“ in a tree with neighbours sometimes taking time to reach an agreement before action is taken. Delta will usually perform the first cut free of charge, but subsequent trimming can become the responsibility of the tree owner.

He said Delta staff and Wanaka DOC representatives are inspecting the

inbrief Pool safety scheme

Power lines close to the trees.

Overgrown section.

Projected model of burn rates.

SUPPLIED BY DOC

offered to do property assessments which some residents have agreed to. This includes advice on how safe a property currently is and what to do in the event of a fire. DOC have also issued all owners in the vicinity with a copy of the FireSmart Manual (from the National Rural Fire Authority), and many have acted upon its recommendations. The group has also discussed making contractors, visitors and casual renters on one’s property aware of the high fire risk of the area.

Clearing of vegetation to reduce fuel load and awareness of the flammability of plants has been another area the group has worked toward with most property owners, especially those that are resident in the area, clearing their properties of dry material.

Some road-side sections appeared to be abandoned by their owners and as a result they have become overgrown and hazardous as well.

Kris said another major concern is the proximity of branches to power lines in the Aubrey road area. She

Aubrey Road area today ( Thursday) following a number of calls about the issue.

The density of native kanuka on sections can be the result of a number of factors, said Brian Fitzpatrick, Lakes Environmental manager of resource management services.

Developers often specify a required amount to maintain the natural appearance of the area, or if plants have indigenous value, council may require that they are protected.

On Little Mount Iron, some sections were required to retain 50 percent of the existing kanuka often leaving only enough room for a building platform as the section was completely covered by the trees, a resident who recently built there said.

Brian said council can not unilaterally change regulations or consent conditions. “It would require some sort of process.” He said Lakes Environmental would be happy to discuss with DOC and residents options for fire management for the future.

7115 sign for front page 7121 power lines close to manuka 7116 overgrown section slide 6 7098 Paul Hondelink

The Wanaka pool, along with 138 other public pools across New Zealand, is now part of the PoolSafe scheme and is working through the process for their first PoolSafe audit. The scheme is a New Zealand Recreation Association (NZRA) and Water Safety New Zealand (WSNZ) programme aimed at reducing the number of water related injuries in and around pools.

“Public pools are the gateway for most New Zealanders to learn water safety skills.” WSNZ’s interim chief executive Matt Claridge said.

“It is pivotal that they are safe and that there are uniform standards and consistency across all pools. The increase in the number of pools operating at a PoolSafe level will ensure this is the case.”

The initiatives involved in the scheme include educational resources, public awareness campaigns and a quality management scheme for public pools.

Grumman Avenger returns to Wanaka A World War II-era Grumman Avenger will return to Wanaka to be flown at the Warbirds Over Wanaka International Airshow by Squadron Leader Jim Rankin. The torpedo bomber aircraft was built in 1945 and was purchased by Sir Tim Wallis’s Alpine Fighter Collection in 1992 before being sold in 1998 and transported to Australia.

The aircraft is now owned by Marton-based Brendon Deere, who is also bringing his Supermarine Spitfire to the airshow in April. To commemorate the Grumman Avenger’s New Zealand wartime contribution, the aircraft will be redecorated in the RNZAF NZ2518 scheme it carried when it was owned by the Alpine Fighter Collection.

It will be based at the RNZAF’s Ohakea base near Palmerston North after the show.

Paul Hondelink.

PHOTOS: TIM BREWSTER

Pop up party Criffel Station will host the second Pop Up Picnic fundraiser for Beats FM this Sunday January 22. The fun day out will have music from the station’s DJs, live poetry from Poetic Justice and an artist’s market.

Thursday 19 January to Wednesday 25 January 2012

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sunnews

Food Bill raises concern Local people, including members of the Wanaka Farmers' and Gardeners' Market, are expressing concerns about the implications of a Food Bill which was introduced to Parliament in December.

An online petition against the Bill has been circulated by email and some locals have been active on Facebook posting their opposition to the Bill as it stands.

The Bill replaces the 1981 Food Act and sets up a new structure for food safety, but some small producers are concerned it will introduce excessive compliance costs and may even prevent them from operating. An online petition, which had gathered about 30,000 signatures at the time of going to print, suggests the Bill will impede initiatives like community gardens, food co-ops, seed banks, farmers' markets and roadside fruit and vegetable stalls. The NZ Food Security website claims the Bill would make the sharing of seeds illegal and that police could raid premises without a warrant, using guns if necessary.

However local concerns have focused

on compliance costs and definitions within the Bill. Wanaka Farmers' and Gardeners' Market committee member Nick Busse said they are starting to see a “swell of concern” about the Bill and its possible implications. There are only two or three small growers of vegetables in the Wanaka area, he said, which indicates the amount of effort and low margins involved, and the proposed compliance costs, along with vagueness around food plans may make it worse. “This Bill has an incredible capacity to snuff out any interest in growing food,” Nick said.

Wanaka Green Party representative Sue Coutts said many people wanted to talk to Green Party co-leader Russel Norman about the Food Bill during his visit to the Wanaka Farmers' Market prior to November's election. “Ambiguity and lack of clarity” in the Bill has led to some people panicking, Sue said, but she believes there is plenty of time for amendments, with the second and third reading of the Bill still to come.

Minister for Food Safety Kate Wilkinson

PHOTO: wanaka.tv

has agreed to meet spokespeople from other parties in an effort to clarify areas of concern, Sue said, which mainly affect small growers, home gardeners and people who swap and barter food.

Kate Wilkinson has said the bill inadvertently

captured some activities and she is seeking advice from her Ministry to ensure seed banks are not disrupted. Waitaki MP Jacqui Dean could not be reached for comment.

Gift concert Next Thursday January 26 ‘Three Centuries of Opera in Italian’ will be held at St. Andrew’s Church on Tenby Street. The community gift concert, organised by the Presbyterian Church will feature narrator and pianist Haydon Rawstron, soprano Dorothee Jansen and Christchurch Symphony Orchestra Concert Master violinist Jan van den Berg. The concert is free but donations to the work of the church in community are welcome.

Tax payment reminder Inland Revenue reminds customers that end-of-year tax payments, which could be required for income tax, working for families tax credits or student loans, are due by February 7.

“We understand some people could have trouble making their payment, so we are encouraging customers to contact us as early as possible so we can discuss their options,” customer services group manager Heather Daly said.

Rabbits run rife Anecdotal reports of increased rabbit numbers around Wanaka have been confirmed by the Otago Regional Council.

ORC regional services group manager Jeff Donaldson said rabbit numbers are on the increase in many parts of Central Otago, in particular the Wanaka/ Upper Clutha basin area. "We are monitoring it and we are dealing with land owners that are in breach," he said.

The ORC monitors land owners' efforts to keep rabbit numbers at manageable levels (through the use of rabbit-proof fences, fumigation, night shooting and patch poisoning). Land owners are expected to ensure rabbit numbers are at or below MMS 3 (level 3 on the Modified McLean scale: "sign infrequent

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with heaps more than 10m apart. Odd rabbit may be seen.") by October 2012. Where rabbit numbers on a property exceed MMS 3, the ORC will ask the landowner to provide a rabbit control programme and can provide land owners with guidance.

A local landscape gardener told the Wanaka Sun that he had never seen so many rabbits as he did on one rural Wanaka property this week.

The ORC considers the rabbit virus RHD to be a minor control tool because local rabbit populations have varying levels of immunity. Instead the council recommends secondary control measures and co-operation between land owners to help reduce rabbit numbers.

Thursday 19 January to Wednesday 25 January 2012

sunnews

Redundancies announced at Wastebusters Three Wanaka Wastebusters staff have attrition among other staff members has positive about Wastebusters' ability to been informed they will lose their jobs also been used to retain the four staff adapt. It is looking at a new direction next month when the organisation's members. Wastebusters has made it a for the new year, she said, shifting from kerbside recycling contract with the priority to support people who would find a factory model to a more user-friendly it hard to find jobs elsewhere, Sue said, "visitors' centre" model. The organisation QLDC expires.

Wastebusters general manager Sue and it has aimed for a balance between is currently preparing applications for the Coutts confirmed staff have been informed supporting them and utilising others who Waste Minimisation Fund and it hopes to negotiate a longer education this week of redundancies and changes to tasks and job contract with the council to Wastebusters has made it a designations as Wastebusters provide more security. There prepares for business without are also plans to make better priority to support people who the kerbside contract, which the use of the Wastebusters site council awarded to Auckland would find it hard to find jobs elsewhere with the space available company Smart Environmental from the loss of the kerbside Ltd in a decision in October contract, Sue said. last year which drew strong community will be able to help develop Wastebusters A film crew from TV3's Campbell Live criticism. in the future. programme were filming at Wastebusters All seven full-time equivalent positions The three remaining kerbside staff, this week, focusing on zero waste. The currently deployed on the kerbside contract all of whom have been employed at crew went out with the kerbside runners will become redundant at the end of Wastebusters for two or three years, and were reportedly interested in hearing February, but four staff will retain their have been advised this week they will how Wastebusters fares after the contract jobs as a result of "expanding existing lose their jobs. Sue described the process expires next month. The segment is likely activities in small ways", Sue said. Natural of change as "nerve-wracking", but was to be screened next week.

Summer snow Winter weather hit Wanaka last week with temperatures falling below 7deg Celsius on Sunday and almost 22mm of rain recorded on Wednesday January 11. Sailing and triathlon competitions proceeded on the lake despite the mountain ranges receiving a covering of snow during the weekend.

PHOTO: wanaka.tv

y a w a e iv g t e k c ti n u S a k Wana

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

The Wanaka Sun has two passes to give away to the Zirka Circus which is coming to town on January 26 to 29 with all new international performers and acts. “The scary acts are scarier than before, and the beautiful acts are more beautiful than ever,” general manager James Finlayson said of the show that features the World’s biggest Globe of Death.

Email admin@thewanakasun.co.nz with Zirka Circus in the subject line to go in to the draw.

Thursday 19 January to Wednesday 25 January 2012

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sunnews

Striking a pose

PHOTO: wanaka.tv

The early morning yoga classes proved so popular that the classes have been continued. Local instructor Stella Senior held a fourth class yesterday morning (pictured) and plans to hold one more free class next Wednesday.

Hanna Bundle, 16, merit endorsement level 1.

Favorite subjects? P.E. and drama.

Future plans? Phys Ed or design.

NCEA’s out for summer Tim Brewster With NCEA results official it’s time for local teenagers who passed to enjoy the rest of one of the hottest summers in years.

For the others perhaps some reading might be in order.

Mt Aspiring College NZQA coordinator Vicki Ashton said results were up from last year with students working hard to secure good results - particularly at Level 2 which will enable them to compete favourably for places

at universities and polytechnics, as applications are completed before Level 3 results are available. There were fewer students leaving school during the year with increasing numbers taking courses with specific vocational skills offered, this probably reflects the tougher economic climate where the job market is more competitive and demanding wider skill levels from our students.

Results so far Level 1 - 99 candidates 88 percent pass rate compared to 87 percent

in 2010. Fourteen of these students gained an excellence endorsement which requires at least 50 excellence credits to be earned over the year.

This is an impressive number and reflects some very hard work by talented students.

Level 2 - 90 candidates 88 percent pass rate also - compared to 81 percent in 2010.

Level 3 - 113 candidates and an 87 percent pass rate compared to 84 percent in 2010. Eighty-six of these students also gained university entrance.

Harriet Varney, merit endorsement level 1.

Favorite subject?

Drama.

Future plans?

“Maybe teaching.”

PHOTOS: TIM BREWSTER

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Thursday 19 January to Wednesday 25 January 2012

sunnews

Fingers crossed for snow shaper’s Euro excursion

PHOTO: supplied

Wanaka’s John Melville, an internationally recognised snow groomer and terrain park builder who created the patented Global Cutter half-pipe shaper has a busy northern winter ahead of him.

A demonstrator model of a 22 foot cutter with his specially designed laser guidance system is going to be trialled by the Austrian resort of Flachauwinkl, one of a handful of resorts worldwide who are building and maintaining an

Olympic size halfpipe which requires a machine of that size.

As the only Kiwi who worked on the Olympic superpipe at the Vancouver 2010 Olympics, John and his company are in strong demand as a builder and shaper of half pipes and terrain parks.

In between shaping at the resort and demonstrating his machine, John has work appointments in Russia, a contract at the Burton Open in Laax, Switzerland

which is one the largest halfpipe events in the northern winter, and another stint shaping the pipe for the junior world snowboard championships at Sierra Nevada in Spain.

The opportunity to trial his machine at a European resort came through contacts formed through Development Snowparks’ European agents, Doors Snowpark Structures, a company that designs and builds terrain park features such as boxes and rails.

If successful, it will be the company’s fourth sale and will follow on from the sale in 2010 of a 22 foot shaper to Whistler Blackcomb, North America’s largest ski resort.

The Global Cutter was launched in May 2009 at the North American Ski Association Trade Show after five years of development that involved three prototype machines being built and modified to produce 18' and 22' demo models.

Surprise wedding Friends and family who gathered in Wanaka last week to celebrate a birthday party ended up also celebrating a surprise wedding.

Guests at Hawea Flat man Dave Roberts' 50th birthday party were stunned when marriage celebrant Pip Harker appeared near the end of the evening and announced that Dave and his partner of 16 years, Tanya Phillips, were to marry then and there. The couple's three children joined them as they said their vows.

Dave is a co-facilitor of the Lakes District Shaping Our Future consultation process and Tanya is a Central Otago mental health worker.

Thursday 19 January to Wednesday 25 January 2012

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sunnews

crimescene Theft and vandalism A size 12, blue and black O’Neill wetsuit with short arms and legs was stolen from the boot of vehicle parked in the driveway of a property on Thursday.

On the same day a Dell Laptop case and external hard drive had been stolen from commercial premises on a building site.

Police are continuing their enquiries into the theft of signage from outside a business, the signs have been recovered and CCTV footage has identified an offender.

During Friday night numerous letter boxes were smashed.

Alcohol offences Friday was a busy night for police who dealt with a number of alcohol fuelled offences.

A local male was arrested for breaching the liquor ban. In a

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separate incident, two males were arrested for fighting outside a shop.

Police arrested a 17-year-old for using another person's driver's licence to gain entry to a bar. She was dealt with by way of a pre-charge warning. Her 18-year-old boyfriend was later located passed out in a car park and was arrested for damaging property at the bar.

Trespass A commercial boat operator had their boat boarded by person or persons who swam out to the boat moored on the lake and set off the alarm.

Vehicle accidents Police have attended a number of vehicle accidents in the central business district area. On Saturday January 14 a driver executed a u-turn, failed to see a vehicle approaching from the rear, continued the manoeuvre and crashed.

Court report Twenty-year-old apprentice roofer Lane Habla was convicted of assault on January 14. He was fined $550 and court fees.

Twenty-year-old Joe White of Tarras was convicted of drink-driving with a breath alcohol reading of 793mcg he was fined $800, disqualified for seven months and ordered to pay court costs.

Amanda Margaret Knight, 44, from Lake Hawea was convicted of embezzling more than $130,000 from her employers Back Country Helicopters Ltd. She was sentenced to 10 months' home detention and 200 hours' community service on the charge of accessing the computer system. She received six months’ home detention for the other pecuniary advantage charges, another six months’ home detention for using Back Country Helicopters Ltd cheques and four months' home detention for theft of cash. The sentences are to be served concurrently.

Twenty-five-year-old Benjamin William Jolly, of Wanaka, was convicted of careless use of a motor vehicle. He was fined $300 and disqualified for two months after he drove past a school bus on Cardrona Valley Road at a speed of 89kph. The speed limit for passing a stationery school bus is 20kph.

Thursday 19 January to Wednesday 25 January 2012

sunnews Cross with care Recent texts printed in the Wanaka Sun Txt Board, as illustrated on the right, have again highlighted some conflicting opinions on the right of way associated with the four speed humps on the lake front section of Ardmore Street.

The speed humps in questions are not official pedestrian crossings, they are courtesy crossings.

The description of a courtesy crossing as provided by the NZ Transport Agency website is: “They provide a place where drivers can stop safely to allow pedestrians to cross. However, drivers are not obliged to stop at courtesy crossings, so use them with care.”

“WHEN IS THE QLDC GOING TO PUT SIGNS UP WITH THE SPEED HUMPS ON ARDMORE STREET? I HAVE WITNESSED MANY PEDESTRIANS NEARLY GETTING HIT BY CARS AS THEY THINK THEY HAVE THE RIGHT OF WAY WHEN CARS DO. COME ON, IT IS ONLY MATTER OF TIME BEFORE THERE IS A DEATH, AND YET THE DRIVER WILL BE DONE FOR IT! COME ON LET’S GET THE SIGNS UP NOW!!!”

“RE: THE SPEED HUMPS AND SIGNS TXT FROM LAST WEEK. SINCE WHEN DO CARS HAVE RIGHT OF WAY OVER PEDESTRIANS? NOT IN THE N.Z ROAD CODE. WHICH RULES ARE YOU GOING BY?”

Duck race PHOTOS: supplied

Former editor recounts adventures Former Wanaka Sun editor Pat Deavoll's newly published book, Wind From a Distant Summit, has received favourable reviews. Pat �������������������������������������������������������������� was editor of the Wanaka Sun from late 2007 to early 2009.

Pat is a renowned alpinist who has been climbing at a high standard for 35 years, including a solo first ascent of a 6000m Karakoram peak, new routes and ascents in China and Alaska, hard ice climbs in Canada and more - all of which she recounts in her new book.

The book includes discussions on the psychology of risk, women in alpinism and Pat’s own experiences with depression.

Thursday 19 January to Wednesday 25 January 2012

The Lake Hawea Community Centre is holding the second annual duck race and gala day this Sunday. The fundraising event raises money for the Lake Hawea Community Centre Inc Building Development Project. The duck who successfully navigates the Hawea River to cross the finish line first will earn its owner $1000.

The last duck to cross the line will also net its owner a prize.

The family gala will be held at Myra Street’s Peter Frazer Park in Lake Hawea.

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Thursday 19 January to Wednesday 25 January 2012

sunnews

Walking the length of the country A drizzly Friday in Wanaka did little to faze the enthusiasm of walking man Paul Garland as he took a day off from his trip along the length of the country.

Paul started the 3000km Te Araroa trail in August of last year to raise funds for Christchurch and now, with the end in sight 18 days away in Bluff, the 66-year-old retired alpaca farmer

from Christchurch was happy to rest up for a day at the Wanaka YHA. The next day he was hoping for clearer skies as he headed up the Motatapu Valley, through Macetown and into Arrowtown.

The day before he had walked out of Timaru Creek where he spent the night in an old musterer’s shed and headed in to the

relative urban comfort of Wanaka to see his wife, Lynda, catch up on his correspondence and replenish his food supplies.

“I retired, it opened last year and I’ve always been keen on tramping,” he said.

He’s made a study off eating on the move as well with his book, “Light and Fast,” which was well reviewed.

Thursday 19 January to Wednesday 25 January 2012

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Thursday 19 January to Wednesday 25 January 2012

Thursday 19 January to Wednesday 25 January 2012

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Thursday 19 January to Wednesday 25 January 2012

sunsport

Windy new year for sailors Blustery weather and deceptive wind shifts welcomed local sailors into the new year for the Wanaka Yacht Club’s annual Roy Bay regatta.

Paul Walker in the Laser class was ranked number one in division one with a total of 6. Ken Hargreaves in the Flying Fifteen class, with 11, was ranked second and Richard Walmisley in the 420 class, with 19, was ranked third.

In division two ranking one to three went to Owen Churchman, with a total of ten and John Dale with 15 in the Noelex 22 class, and Owen Cambridge with 25 in the Noelex 25 class Division three first place ranking went to Jeff Mercer, with seven.

Roger North was ranked second with 11 and Dean Weastell was ranked third with 19. All three competitiors were in the Etchell’s class.

Bryn Fisher, Sam Shaw, Ollie Jarvie, and George Kaly in competition on Sunday.

PHOTO: wanaka.tv

Katharine keeps top spot Wanaka’s Katharine Eustace kept her top ten position on the skeleton World Cup circuit for the second weekend in a row. Katharine came ninth in Koenigssee, Germany.

“It’s great to be in the top ten again, after last week placing ninth in Altenberg it gives me continued confidence that I seemed to be lacking at the beginning of the season,” she said.

Katharine was in 20th place after her first run but moved up to ninth place with a second run

that was the seventh fastest of the field. She said she was skidding into the straight on the first run which lowered her speed but sitting in 20th place and with nothing to lose she “just relaxed”. “I did what I knew I had to do. It was much better and so I improved my overall position to ninth.”

The World Championships were held at the Koenigssee track last season when Katharine placed 14th and Ben Sandford placed 12th. The World Cup circuit moves to St Moritz, Switzerland next weekend.

It’s great to be in the top ten again.

Warming up for the challenge Competitors in this weekend’s Lake Wanaka Half and Challenge Wanaka got to grips with the water course on Wednesday morning in an organised dedicated practise session.

The triathlon action starts with the 3.8km swim leg at 6.30am on Saturday for the Challenge athletes, with the Half starting at 11.45am.

Thirteen-year-old Kenzie

Findlay, of Wanaka, swimming in team 3 Findlays in the Lake Wanaka Half, is the youngest competitor. A total of 1234 athletes will take part on the day.

PHOTO: wanaka.tv

Thursday 19 January to Wednesday 25 January 2012

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sunsport

Bowling pair in finals Wanaka’s Stu and Rhonda Hurley will represent Central Otago in the regional bowling play-offs in Oamaru in March. They beat Arrowtown’s Graeme and Jenni Heazlewood 19-8 in the final event played at Alexandra on Sunday.

PHOTO: NZ SNOWSPORTS

No podium but gets the flag

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Pictured at Edinburgh Realty Men’s Classic Bowls Wanaka are, back row from left Peter Herbert, Geoff Thomas, Brett Simpson, Tom Malcolm, David McKenzie, Stu Hurley, Edgar Allison, Fin McRae. Front from left: Bill Hodge, Bruce Macandrew, Norman Hewett, Bill Turnbull.

Colin Nyenhuis, Lowell Croft.

Wanaka skier Beau-James Wells may have just missed out on a podium spot at the halfpipe at the world’s first Youth Olympic Winter Games currently underway in Innsbruck, Austria, but he will still come away from the event with special memories.

As the flagbearer of the New Zealand team Beau James, 16, led the team in the opening

ceremony replicating the Olympic event.

Commenting on the selection, chef de mission Peter Wardell said “Beau is a very friendly and approachable personality with plenty of time for all other competitors. As the flag bearer Beau will be someone that all the New Zealand youth athletes can look to for leadership and inspiration no matter their sport.”

In the halfpipe event he had been the top qualifier leading into the final, but with three other athletes landing double somersaults Beau James ended up in fourth place, 1.5 points behind the third place getter.

“While Beau is bitterly disappointed, I am really, really pleased with his performance,” father and coach Bruce Wells said. “When the pressure

came on in the finals he stepped it up and skied out of his skin. A couple of other athletes just managed to stick some cutting edge tricks that Beau doesn’t have in his competition repertoire yet.”

Samantha Poots from Wanaka placed seventh in the girls halfpipe. She missed out on the six person finals.

Response to Mr. Paul Wilson Far from having my head in the sand I was involved through the Holiday Parks Association of New Zealand, TiA, (Tourism Association of New Zealand) in making submissions to the Government.

I would remind Mr. Wilson it was the New Zealand Government who after so many complaints about the effect of Freedom Camping introduced legislation so local government could take steps to prevent it.

Freedom Camping was previously prohibited at Waterfall Creek. Why has the council now allowed this to occur?

Most importantly the QLDC has a Freedom Camping exclusion zone that extends from Frankton Arm to Glenorchy. Why did the council allow freedom camping to occur so close to Wanaka?

PHOTO: TIM BREWSTER Richard Hutchison

I have, for the past several years, made submissions to the council regarding the effect of freedom camping at Waterfall Creek including on one occasion photographing 15 separate piles of faecal matter.

Compliance officer Darryl Taylor once again reported human faeces on the lake shore at Waterfall Creek earlier this week. None of the campers there accepted any responsibility.

For Mr. Wilson to subject me to the type of derogatory comment that “I must have had my head in the sand” once again indicates to me the attitude of council members towards its ratepayers.

Why are council making decisions that negatively affect the income of commercial ratepayers such as myself and other registered accommodation providers in the Wanaka area during a recession?

Kind Regards Richard Hutchison Owner Aspiring Holiday Park

Page 16

Thursday 19 January to Wednesday 25 January 2012

sunviews editorial

TXT MESS AGE

BOARD Why r there so many people in wanaka talking on the phone while driving is it not illegal here?

Re the speed humps and signs txt from last week. Since when do cars have right of way over pedestrians? Not in the N.Z road code. Which rules are you going by? wow it’s your birthday, happy birthday bro I’ve been an avid cyclist for years and having previously been hit by a car whilst riding I’m amazed by how many road cyclists around here still ride out towards the middle of the road. Stay as far left as possible. And please wear bright colours.

Roaming dogs. Would the known owners of a black Labrador dog which is allowed 2 roam at night time in the Heuchan Lane area , dropping turds on my lawn Please B aware that will B the last time.

Whoever owns the nosey foxy jack russel on willowridge tie your dog up!! It’s been annoying our two dogs and neighbours at all hours of the night and day. Grrr Never have we worn our summer gear for so long hot weather don’t leave us now To all the happy campers...Come, rest, enjoy! Not all us locals are greedy grumpy killjoys. Now can we put the topic to rest?

To all my wanaka pals, love you all and i WILL be back. Apu/sparkles/tinkerbell xo To the person asking for the Challenge Wanaka crew to disclose their fee. Get a life, aren’t you allowed to have a job in this town! How much do you earn?

Challenge brings all sorts of benefits to this amazing town, volunteers help is crucial Do cinema owners have special parking privileges in Wanaka or is it simply a matter of thinking themselves above the law Not enough challenge slaves this year?

Maybe challenge needs to operate like other businesses - pay your staff!

At minimum wage for an 8 hour day, times 600 volunteers for challenge wanaka.

That’s $60,000.saved. Do they give that to charity?

GO CAPTAIN STOTTY STOTT AND THE THREE PIES

It was a textbook case of road-pig-ignorance.

I saw a local woman pedalling casually along Aubrey Road on the approach to the Anderson Road turn-off on a sunny morning last week with a classic box shaped six-berth campervan looming up behind her.

The cyclist was going on straight ahead and having almost reached the intersection looked up just in time as the campervan, showing a gracelessness worthy of the wreck formerly known as Rena, turned left across her path.

Brakes on and managing to veer off the road, the woman stared up in astonishment as it lumbered in front of her, closely followed by a car.

New Zealand drivers are often rated as some of the most intolerant in the world by cyclists who visit here, so in this case it’s vaguely reassuring to suspect some foreigner had a motorhead attitude of their own, but why does it need to happen at all?

If the cyclist had been behind the wheel of a massive John Deere tractor travelling at the same speed would the campervan cut it off? The obvious answer to that raises the question: why do some operators of motorised vehicles feel they have the right to intimidate cyclists that have a legal right to share the road Size is obviously king for some people when they get behind the wheel and with the lycra army out in full force this weekend, we can only hope courtesy and caution prevail.

The rules are simple: cyclists have exactly the same right to use our public roads as any car, truck or bus. They also have the right to ride two abreast.

They get wound up too when they’re bullied by vehicles and can behave just as rudely as the worst drivers but using a vehicle to show a cyclist “who the boss is” can be a deadly game.

So instead of leaning on your horn, driving closely past them at speed, swerving angrily across the centre line toward oncoming traffic to show how annoyed you are at having precious seconds taken out of your all important trip, slow down, chill out and show some respect.

write to the editor Let the community know your views, email your letter to:

theeditor@thewanakasun.co.nz

Challenge response Might I remind the good folk of Wanaka that every year the Board of Trustees of Challenge Wanaka have an open public meeting where all the financial figures (amongst any other issues) are available for scrutiny and questions.

To the person who sent in the related text to the Txt Message Board this week (12 January), please email me and I shall ensure that a personal invitation is sent to you to remind you of the place, date and time of this year’s meeting.

In this way you can reassure yourself that the contribution by the Trust’s employed organisers is nothing short of stunning (yes, that is stunning) in its skill, commitment, efficiency (yes, that is another word for cheapness), knowledge, experience and enthusiasm.

The Board of Trustees takes its responsibility whole heartedly to ensure that the event is organised to the true benefit of the Wanaka community and participants. Please (please!) come to the meeting as that is the opportunity to find out some facts, to judge us and criticise us, positively or negatively.

Alistair Madill Trustee for Challenge Wanaka Sports Trust. armadillos@xtra.co.nz

Re: Close call for Mt Iron residents.

We received an email from Mary Lou Roulston who felt her conversation with our journalist led to a misrepresentation of her sentiments.

We apologise that Mrs Roulston feels the article reflected poorly on her, that was not our intention. Our intention was to reflect how stressful the events of the Mount Iron fire were and how the people affected reacted on that extraordinary night.

Editor

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.

Thursday 19 January to Wednesday 25 January 2012

Page 17

sunclassifieds Editorial manager: Ruth Bolger theeditor@thewanakasun.co.nz Journalist: Tim Brewster journalist@thewanakasun.co.nz Production: Damian Foster production@thewanakasun.co.nz Advertising: Jude Smith marketing@thewanakasun.co.nz Ronnie Hopkinson sales@thewanakasun.co.nz, Amanda Hodge advertising@thewanakasun.co.nz Accounts: accounts@thewanakasun.co.nz

Issue 540 Thursday January 19, 2011

circulation: 9,000

Free Text-Classifieds For sale

Notice

Women’s Road Bike - Trek 51cm powder blue woman’s road bike. Aluminium frame, carbon forks, Shimano 105 components, bike computer inc. Excellent condition, 400km never been dropped one owner - brought from Racers Edge. $1050 Ph Anna 0274383640 or 443 9363

AUTUMN ART SCHOOL GRANTS: These are available to assist Upper Clutha residents to attend classes. Application forms at library. Closing date January 31. Classes are filling fast. If you wish to attend you need to send in a registration form marked ‘applying for grant’ as soon as possible.

Further details from Robyn, 443 1810.

2 CHOOKS hyliners. Point of lay, one just started other not far off. $45 for pair. Tel 034436764 CHEAP! Elec TREADMILL up to 12km/hr, exc condition, moving os, $100, 0221331101 Childs soccer themed single bed with mattress, man utd bedding including duvet and rollaway storage. Very good condition. $200 Tel 443 2133 Childs custom made wardrobe with 2 deep drawers and soccer handles. Superb condition bargain $200 tel 443 213 Must see.

Computer system with 15inch flat screen, printer and workstation. Ideal for childs homework. Bargain $200 tel 443 2133 Old office desk with drawers for sale150x75cm,Reasonable price, Contact Community Networks 4437799 Large fridge for sale,Reasonable price, Contact Community Networks 4437799 Girls Bike - 17’’ frame MIlAZO ZX4006 Shimano Gears - Great for riding to school - $75.00 - Call 4432902 Reliable & ecomic car, Mitsubishi RVR X 1996, WOF 06/12, new battery, 2 new tyres, $ 3,250, ph 0212880447 As new FUZZY BUNZ Nappies. Call 0211612885 Wheat 4 sale, whole & crushd, 30kg@$25. Crushd barley and chicken mash too. 4434944 PRAM - Emmaljunga brand detachable basinette an toddler seat gud condition $100 an jolly jumper $20 ph: 0220154972 Chief Loves to Chase. Get your copy now at Paper Plus or for a signed copy come to the Sunday Market!

Childs rip curl wetsuit $50. Office chair offers phone 443 7694 5 Rusticated trusses.3.6 wide. Suitable for carport cottage pergola covered walkway. Phone 0212988796 Shed. 6.6x3.6 . Ply and iron finish. Veranda on front. Ph 0212988796 Double bed for sale! $50. Call or txt 027 35 666 30

Craft market this Sunday, Pembroke Park from 10am. Handmade New Zealand Arts and Crafts direct from the artist to you.

Garden Party fundraiser 4 Cancer Society Relay 4 Life. Sunday 5 Feb 1:30 to 4:00pm at 32 Warren St. $10 entry incl Devonshire tea, kids free.

Your medical centre has moved but your pharmacy is still right here! Wanaka Pharmacy serving the Upper Clutha for 40 years & here for you daily until 7pm at the top of Helwick St. Wanaka Pharmacy Healthy Rewards lets you earn 1 Reward point for every dollar you spend!!

U-FLY 2in1 scenic flight gift vouchers...don’t leave them in your sock draw, redeem them. 1/2 DVD’s for locals. Ph. 4005.

Stall holders sought for Cancer Society Relay for Life Garden Party Fundraiser in Wanaka Sunday 5 Feb 1.30-4.00pm. $20 fee. Enquiries: 0272171950 A Night of Italian Opera. Jan 26 730 St Andrews Tenby St See event on Facebook. A gift concert from Presbyterians in Community.

BODY and SOUL EXPO this weekend at Cromwell is POSTPONED until further notice.

Dam good fruit stall. da o.g fruitstall downtown. crazy good stone fruit!

ZUMBA FITNESS CLASSES! Monday 6:30pm & Wednesday 7:30pm @ Dance Wanaka Studio 249 Riverbank Rd. Contact 02102795639.

CHEESE MAKING WORKSHOP. Learn to make mozzarella, halloumi, camembert, feta & more.

11 & 12th Feb. For info ph: (03)3592455 or www.

HomeMadeCheese.co.nz

To rent TO RENT spacious 3 bedroom modern apartment, available now. Partly furnished. 5min walk to town. Ph/txt 0278674347 House to Rent: Ash Avenue, Albert Town. 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home. Great indoor/outdoor flow. Adjacent to park, tennis court and playground. $420 per week. Rent may be negotiable for long term rental. Contact 03 448 5209 evenings or 027 2308334.

Free

Services

FREE! Unique Dining Table, timber octagonal seats 4, moving os, 0221331101

Wanaka Garden Services, gardens, lawns and more. For a proper job call Steve Jago today 021183-1250 / 443-2511 www.wanakagardenservices.co.nz

Marquee Hire! Free of charge for community groups or events. Contact Bayleys Wanaka for more info 4435330 or wanaka@bayleys.co.nz Free BBQ, older but still works needs gas bottle.

0273467942 LOST Lost Ginger Tabby Cat Cardrona River Ballantyne Road area if found call Ken @ Selectrix 4434123 If you took my grey “true” puffer (with purple zip) from wedding party at Snow Park last weekend , please please give me a text 0274126328 thanks

Business Opportunity,online catalogue shopping company. www.shopgreenwithus.com Karuna @ Health2000. When you need to relax or need to work out stress book a massage with Dannielle 0226152231 Routeburn track - have your car waiting for you at the end www.routeburntrack.info Inland Revenue are at Community Networks Thursday 26 January 9am-12.30pm. For help with tax, child support, student loans or family tax credits call 4437799.

SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAMME for 5-13 year olds,January 9-27,For bookings visit www,com munitynetworks,co,nz or call in at Community Networks 73 Brownston Street RELATIONSHIP SERVICES Professional counselling for all relationship & family issues available in Wanaka. Call 0800RELATE (0800 735 283)for an appointment.

WANAKA WINDOW CLEANING professional, friendly, efficient service. Enjoy those bluebird summer views. High, awkward windows a specialty. Paolo 021 0572505/ 4432420 Biodynamic workshop no.3, raisin & applyin prep 500, 29 Jan (9am-12pm at Glendhu Station), tickets $25 at Wastebusters.

Septic Tank 0800885886

Cleaning

Services, Wanaka

Swedish deep tissue massage with acupressure points. Sports, relaxation, or therapeutic. I hour just $40. 11/4 $50. O2102529542 ASPIRING MASSAGE WANAKA. Provider to High Performance Sport N.Z. Trevor Bailey. Available 7 days. 4432993 0274222455 www.aspiringmassagewanaka.co.nz CRYSTAL HEALER- JADE KYLES Qualified crystal healer in Alexandra. Relaxing, healing, soothing and rejuvenating. Ph 03 4488004 or 0272519300 Electric opening rooves and shutters. Handy Solutions 0212080175 All types of fencing and gates. Wrought iron.

Timber. Colour steel. Post and rail. Glass and steel balustrades. 4434078 0272080175 PSYCHIC MEDIUM -JADE KYLES established spiritual teacher, 23 years experience. Personal one hour readings in Alexandra. Ph 03 4488004 or 0272519300

Phone: 03 443 5252 Fax: 03 443 5250 Text view: 021 986 786 Text classified: 022 0786 778 Address: Top of the escalator, Spencer House, Wanaka Postal: PO Box 697, Wanaka

open homes Address

Time

Date

Price

FIRST NATIONAL 131A AUBREY ROAD

2-3pm

19/01/12

$595,000

25 GUNN ROAD

1-2pm

21/01/12

Auction

17 FOXGLOVE HEIGHTS

3-4pm

21/01/12

By Neg

4.305.30pm

21/01/12

By Neg

25 GUNN ROAD

1-2pm

22/01/12

Auction

17 FOXGLOVE HEIGHTS

3-4pm

22/01/12

By Neg

1050 LAKE HAWEA ALBERT TOWN HIGHWAY

12pm

21/01/12

Auction

12 ANDERSON ROAD

12pm

21/01/12

$399,000

17 TYNDALL STREET

1pm

21/01/12

Auction

18 OLD STATION AVENUE

1pm

21/01/12

Auction

2pm

21/01/12

Auction

3 FOXGLOVE HEIGHTS

HARCOURTS

5 BRIDGEWATER TERRACE, ALBERT TOWN 64A BILLS WAY

2pm

21/01/12

Auction

50 KELLIHER DRIVE

2pm

21/01/12

$849,000

26 ASPIRING TERRACE

11am

22/01/12

$850,000

28 INFINITY DRIVE

11am

22/01/12

$749,000

33 INFINITY DRIVE

11am

22/01/12

$749,000

SHADE SAILS. Custom Design. Quality materials.

Handy Solutions 0272080175

1050 LAKE HAWEA ALBERT TOWN HIGHWAY

12pm

22/01/12

Auction

POST and RAIL fencing. HANDY SOLUTIONS happy to quote. You may be surprised. Ph 4434078 0272080175

11 ISLINGTON PLACE

12pm

22/01/12

$689,000

12pm

22/01/12

$411,000

9 HEUCHAN LANE

1pm

22/01/12

Auction

HANDY SOLUTIONS. You name it. We do it.

4434078 or 0272080175

33 LITTLE MAUDE DRIVE, LAKE HAWEA

21 HEDDITCH STREET

1pm

22/01/12

Auction

Wedding? Violinist plays ambient music as soloist or trio with local cellist and flutist 14 years experience free quotes 0221 30 5457 johannahansen0@gmail.com

22 MEADOWSTONE DRIVE

1pm

22/01/12

Auction

116 LOESS LANE, HAWEA FLAT

1pm

22/01/12

$645,000

Engineering and repairs. Handy Solutions. Ph 0272080175

3 RYALLS WAY, LAKE HAWEA

1:30pm

22/01/12

$520,000

50 KELLIHER DRIVE

2pm

22/01/12

$849,000

5B MERCURY PLACE

2pm

22/01/12

$399,000

64A BILLS WAY

2pm

22/01/12

$98,145

114 KINGS DRIVE

2pm

22/01/12

$598,000

32 ASH AVENUE, ALBERT TOWN

2pm

22/01/12

$429,000

2:15pm

22/01/12

$695,000

124 ANDERSON ROAD

3pm

22/01/12

$359,000

5 POPPY LANE, ALBERT TOWN

3pm

22/01/12

$619,000

Thank you U-FLY would like to thank all our sponsors for this year’s Eye in the Sky.

Wanted Wall oven wanted. Ph 4434499 Flatmates wanted, Albert Town, 2 rooms available. Warm, sunny house by river. Call or text disa on 027 637 0047 Working flatmate wanted to share great house with one other. Fully furnished. In town.

160 rent negotiable. 02102529542 Scuba tank wanted for mac student, cheap as poss. Ph: Hugh 0273916779 Lawn mowing jobs wanted for 16yr Mac student ph: Hugh on 0273916779

39 LAKEVIEW TERRACE, LAKE HAWEA

LOCATIONS VILLA H, 37 LAKESIDE ROAD

1212.30pm

18/01/12

Mortgagee Auction

VILLA H, 37 LAKESIDE ROAD

1212.30pm

19/01/12

Mortgagee Auction

VILLA H AUCTION, 10 JUNO PLACE 13 MINARET RIDGE

02 20 786 778 text message only - deadline Tuesday 4pm 20 word limit - standard network rates apply Page 18

Printed by: Guardian Print, Ashburton Delivered by: Wanaka Rowing Club Published by: Wanaka Sun (2003) Ltd

12.30pm 1212.30pm

20/01/12

Auction (In Office)

22/01/12

$575,000

2-2.30pm

22/01/12

$1,150,000

11am

22/01/12

Auction Onsite

11am

21/01/12

TENDER

SOUTHERN WIDE 7 HYLAND STREET RAY WHITE 20 BROWNSTON STREET

Thursday 19 January to Wednesday 25 January 2012

sunclassifieds employment

sport results Wanaka Bowling Club Progressive Tournament held on 13 Jan 2012. Skips: 1 Norman Matheson, 2 Neville Young, 3 Kay Chartres. Thirds: 1 David Young, 2 Helen Green, 3 Bruce Hamilton. Leads: 1 Dennis Schofield, 2 Fred Anderson, 3 Robyn Chartres.

HELP NEEDED! Opportunity to lease one of our trailer units and operate our popular Food Stall in Otago / Southland No experience needed Please apply in writing and include your CV to: Black Forest Waffle Hut P.O.Box 4046 Timaru

for sale

Bridge results: Kingsway Stakes 1. North/South:Lynne Fegan, Maggie Stratford 65.28% 1. Pamela Buchanan, Mark Harry 63.47% 2. Jacqueline & Kenneth Roberts 58.33% 3. East/West:- Kate Coe, Lesley Davies 56.81% 1. Frances Copland, Jill Millar 56.11% 2. Janet Anderson, Elle Johnston 54.31% 3.

Advertise in the Wanaka Sun Call Ronnie or Amanda 03 443 5252

for sale

Wanaka Gun Club Shoot 15/01/12: 5 Stand 1st 25: B Thurlow 22, R Smart 21, F McGarvie 20, A Stuart 19. 5 Stand 2nd 25: P Studholm 23, F McGarvie 21, R Sandford 20, R Smart 20. 25 Skeet: R Smart 24, P Nelson 23, B Thurlow 22. 25 Skeet: R Smart 25, B Thurlow 24, R Anderson, A Radford 23. HOA 5 Stand P Studholm 41/50, HOA Skeet R Smart 49/50, HOA Skeet and 5 Stand R Smart 90/100.

Puzzling World Junior Challenge Wanaka results: Boys (6-7yrs): 1 Sam Idiens, 2 Ian Pugh, 3 Caleb Dixon. (89yrs) 1 Jack Keen, 2 James Suddaby, 3 Jack Findlay.

(10-12yrs) 1 Gregor Findlay, 2 Callum Hancock, 3 Roger Kerbus. (13-15yrs) 1 Matthew Adams. Girls (67yrs) 1 Ella Landreth, 2 Grace Creighton, 3 Olive-Coco Verkerk. (8-9yrs) 1 Jessica Ekroyd, 2 Jaide Dixon, 3 Anneke Philip. (10-12yrs) 1 Mia Pugh, 2 Petra Hartley, 3 Ellesse Andrews. (13-15yrs) 1 Molly Wheeley.

Winning Team (13-15yrs) The Muzzarifs: Jackson Murray, Jack Zarifah, Samuel Murray. (10-12yrs) Zarifah – Kate Zarifah, Harry Zarifah, Charlie Murray.

(8-9yrs) WOW the Women of Wanaka – Ruby Burke, Meg Harroway. (6-7yrs) The Rock Stars – Georgia Bailey, Rachel Scovey and Goergia Thomson.

trades&services

trades&services

TREE services

RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

panelbeaters

construction

services

CURTAINS

Thursday 19 January to Wednesday 25 January 2012

Page 19

sunsport

Snow on the hills spurs on youngsters Tim Brewster The sight of snow on the hills around Lake Wanaka greeted more than 270 children, more than 70 in the age six to seven category, as they plunged into the water in the Junior Challenge triathlon on Sunday.

The event marked the opening of the week long triathlon festival with distances ranging from a 50m swim, 1km bike ride and 500m run for the youngest competitors to a 200m swim, 5km ride and 2km run for 13- to 15-year-olds.

As well as bragging rights

for first place, each age group winner was offered the chance to carry balloons down the finish chute alongside the winners of the full distance triathlon on Saturday.

Wanaka kids were well represented with Ella Landreth and Grace Creighton placing first

and second in the six- to seven-year-old girls, and James Suddaby and Jack Findlay coming second and third in the eightto nine-year-old boys.

Jessica Ekroyd won the girls event in the eightto nine-year-old girls with WOW the Women of Wanaka (Ruby

Burke, Meg Harroway) winning the team event in the same age group.

In the ten- to 12-year-old boys competition, Gregor Findlay placed first, Mia Pugh and Ellesse Andrew came first and third in the girls event and team Zarifah, made up of Kate Zarifah, Harry Zarifah

and Charlie Murray won the team section.

The Muzzarifs threesome of Jackson Murray, Jack Zarifah and Samuel Murray (Sumner and Wanaka) won the 13to 15-year-old team event. The eight- to nine-year-old group are pictured.

PHOTO: wanaka.tv

X factor Rose gets invite Tim Brewster Wanaka-based freeskier Rose Battersby has received a prestigious honour in the world of snowsports with an invitation to compete at next weeks X games in Aspen, Colorado.

Rose, 18, will ski in the women’s slopestyle event with the invite indicating that she will be in the top ten females in the world for the event her coach Pete Legnavsky said.

“Mentally she is tougher than most of the guys and she

will go bigger than any of the other girls.”

The only other New Zealander attending the invitationonly competition is another Wanaka based skier, Jossi Wells, who will contest the halfpipe, slopestyle and big air events.

The event is a major step to help Rose achieve what she has called her lifelong dream of competing at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Page 20

Thursday 19 January to Wednesday 25 January 2012