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They’re dreaming of...
Gold in the cold
Olympic medalists Zoi Sadowski-Synnott and Nico Porteous are both in stunning form.
Roy Pilott
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ew Zealand has won three medals at 16 Winter Olympics - now a new generations of teenagers is poised to add to that total, if not double it. A total of 15 athletes have been named to
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compete in Beijing – including eight from Wānaka and three from Queenstown. Eight snow sports athletes were added late last week to join the five athletes named in the September 2021 selection. Most of the team would be asked for their ID in a bar – but their stream of successes in international events in Europe and the United
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States in recent months has fuelled hopes that this wave of youth can eclipse the best efforts from a New Zealand team. The latest Wānaka name added to the field was the outstanding Campbell Wright, who will contest the biathlon. Wānaka be cheering for their home-grown and imported talent – and Covid permitting, some
Beijing bound From Wānaka (8): Zoi Sadowski-Synnott, 20, - Snowboard Slopestyle and Big Air; Margaux Hackett, 22, - Freeski Slopestyle and Big Air, Finn Bilous, 21, – Freeski Slopestyle and Big Air, Nico Porteous, 19, - Freeski Slopestyle and Big Air, Gustav Legnavsky, 16, - Freeski Halfpipe, Miguel Porteous, 22, - Freeski Halfpipe, Ben Harrington, 20, - Freeski Halfpipe, Campbell Wright, 19, (Biathlon) From Queenstown (3): Alice Robinson, 19, – Alpine Ski Racing, Tiarn Collins, 22, - Snowboard Slopestyle & Big Air, Cool Wakushima, 19, - Snowboard Slopestyle & Big Air. From Auckland: Ben Barclay, 21, - Freeski Slopestyle & Big Air. From Wellington: Peter Michael, 32, – speed skating. will be able to gather at the first New Zealand Team winter fanzone. Plans for the zone, at Après by Cardrona, 50 Cardrona Valley Road, were announced before the traffic lights on New Zealand went red. The plan was to open the doors to “NZHQ” open at 2pm on February 5, in time for fans to watch 2018 Winter Olympic bronze medallist Zoi SadowskiSynnott in action in the snowboard slopestyle. Wānaka duo Sadowski-Synnott and Nico Porteus collected bronze medals on the same day - February 22 2018 – at the last games in Pyeongchang, South Korea. That year New Zealand sent a team comprising 21 athletes, 17 men and four women, across five sports. The two Wānaka medal winners and Queenstown’s Alice Robinson – the country’s youngest competitor – were just 16. The youngest member selected for New Zealand this year is another 16 year old from Wānaka - Gustav Legnavsky. You have to go back to 1992 to find the only other winter Olympic medal winner - Annelise Coberger, the first athlete from the Southern Hemisphere to win a winter games medal. The Beijing Games run from February 5 to 21 New Zealand time.
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CAMERA CLUB ‘IN FOCUS’
We continue our summer series of shots taken by members of the Wānaka Camera Club with a selection by Margaret Hurley. “I chose a variety of subjects to show the extent of creativity that I've learnt since being with the club rather than just landscapes,” she told the Sun. Margaret has been a club member for eight years, including seven as secretary, has lived in Wānaka for 34 years and says she still loves it here. Wānaka Camera Club will assist anyone interested in photography. Its next meeting is February 14, 7.30pm, St John Rooms, Link way.
Where’s Wally?
Buddha belly
Stairway to oblivion
Unhinged
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Another $40m Covid cost Covid and its cousins have cost the Queenstown Lakes business community another $40 million with the cancellation of the 2022 Warbirds over Wānaka event. The hugely anticipated Easter showcase, a premier event on the New Zealand calendar, has been killed off for the second time in a row. Sunday’s Wānaka Stride, Ride and Slide event scheduled was also called off on Wednesday by Sport Central. Warbirds Over Wānaka Community Trust Chairman John Gilks said the board of trustees were left with no option but to cancel following the Government’s decision to put the whole country into the red traffic light setting. “The Government has indicated that the country will remain in red for weeks so we cannot continue to plan for an Airshow. The health and safety of the amazing team which delivers Warbirds Over Wānaka and all our visitors is paramount,” he said. Ignite Wānaka General Manager Naomi Lindsay said it was sad news for the organisers, “but also the many businesses across the Southern Lakes that benefit from the event”. “Over $40 million is injected into the local economy during Warbirds and this is the news no one wanted to hear. Other key events scheduled in the coming weeks will now also face similar tough decisions,” she said. The Warbirds publicity machine has been active for months, drip feeding news
The Royal Australian Airforce had planned to show off the C-130J. Five of the transport crafts have been ordered by the Royal New Zealand Air Force.
of who would be at the event, and stories of the people who make the event happen. The first international airshow was held in 1988 and it now attracts 55,000 people over three days. “We know this will be a huge blow for all those people who have worked hard to pull this event together, especially following on from the disappointment of being one of the first major events in New Zealand to cancel because of Covid back in March 2020,” John Gilks said. “We are also extremely disappointed for the numerous businesses, not just in Wānaka but around the region, which
benefit hugely from the Airshow. We know they were upset when we cancelled back in 2020 and they were looking to our event this Easter as a major financial boost given the tough times, they have faced over the past almost two years. The 2022 Airshow was also to have been a major part of the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s 85th Anniversary celebrations and at least two international air forces were planning to be here to join in the celebrations. The next Warbirds Over Wānaka International Airshow is planned for Easter 2024.
Me and Covid Wānaka Sun reporter Aimee Owens is based on the Gold Coast, and this month became another Australian Covid victim. She gives readers an insight.
Monday morning greeted me with a gruff voice - my own. I am obviously run down from a seven-day work week was my initial thought. But as the day progressed my usual unabating hunger was absent. The usual fatigue of the working week was present, but I finished work and headed home. At 9pm I went to sleep, but one hour later I woke abruptly with a splintering throat and gasping for water. Laced with confusion and entirely disorientated, I wondered how only one hour has passed since I was last awake. Amidst this, and far into the darkness I heard the infamous Kookaburra laughing, a resounding cackle in the night, seemingly laughing at my insomnia. Finally, I slept. But the summer sun woke me a few hours later, along with a persistent headache. A fever, followed by chills, encouraged the duvet to stay on, but the strong summer heat and humidity pleaded me to peel them off. The sun pounded down, the heat filled my home, my breath and my bed with unwanted warmth. My body throbbed intensely with pain from this unwelcome guest, perpetuated by the brink of my
Aimee Owens
monthly menstrual cycle. All I could think of was water; cold, delicious, soothing water. A PCR test confirmed it – I had Covid-19 - before I contracted the virus, I had not been sick for almost a year, but the Omicron variant was ubiquitous. Lying horizontal, in the same position, was the only relief but by day three it was tedious. Muscle aches and a gluey cough settled in, but my headache had transformed in to a considerate, dull ache. My nose had started to drip, in between sneezing fits. Dizzying, confusing moments were experienced whenever I inevitably had to move or stand. By Friday the worse symptoms had left as quickly as they presented themselves and the seven-day isolation was a notable mental challenge. The following week I was extremely tired due to the sleep disruption and recovery was slow, two weeks later I still do not have my usual amount of energy.
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Albert Town team two short
Albert Town’s community association is looking for two more members following its annual meeting last weekend. ATCA Chairperson Heather Thorne said the organisation wants to co-opt two members and would welcome someone with IT skills. In her annual report Heather Thorne said her 2021 team had reflected the demographic of Albert Town…“one or two oldies and the rest are young family people who have an incredible range of skills which they are prepared to volunteer to make Albert Town the really special place we all value”. Her review of the year included tributes to committee members, including some who were retiring or had left during the year. They included Toni McGuire, Jamie Roy and Jim Cowie. The association had enjoyed a close connection with Te Kakano Aotearoa Trust, Wānaka Backyard Trapping, police and Kahu Youth and was well supported by Wānaka Lions and Harcourts. “Covid has changed so much for so many and I guess will continue to do so for some time to come. It has been very noticeable over the last year how ATCA’s focus has changed from looking at footpaths and infra-structure to meeting the social needs of the community and this has consumed much of my time in the last few months,” she reported. “I believe Covid is responsible for this. Sadly, it meant no Christmas Party in the Park but it will be back. Projects she listed as being undertaken by ACTA during the year included a bus stop to protect the school children in Alison Avenue, contributing to the Pawson’s Crossing bridge ramps, maintenance, planting and trapping at the lagoon and installing
a storage shed there, working with QLDC to establish whether it is feasible to have a community building, fighting for broom eradication, getting Heather Thorne signage and providing upkeep of the community orchard, planting wind protection at the McMurdo Park barbecue, building a surplus produce stall in Sherwin Ave, fighting for rabbit control, working with Department of Conservation over the bike skills park in Gunn Road and establishing a monthly newsletter. She said so much had been done, but there was so much to do and “in the digital age it often seems difficult to communicate and I don’t understand why”. Criminal activity also warranted a mention. Plants to provide wind protection at the McMurdo Park barbecue were promptly stolen. “Over the last few months there have been reports of social misbehaviour by a very small minority but it has impacted on a lot of people and Albert Town is not used to this.” She encouraged people to report any instances of such behaviour to the police. “The Police have to be made aware of what is happening and then they can deal with this behaviour. Other officers elected at last weekend’s meeting were: Tania Waghorn (Secretary), Stuart Mackay (Treasurer), Sue Grant (Vice Chairperson), Nathan Weathington (Immediate Past Chair) and committee members is Chris Aspinall, Ed Astin, Bruce Hebbard and Andrew Thorne.
Clean glass is collected and recycled.
We’re all glass… Glass recycling is proving a winner in Queenstown Lakes The district council says the latest audit funded by the Glass Packaging Forum (GPF), found glass collected here for recycling had a negligible rate of contamination. The GPF is part of The Packaging Forum which is dedicated to developing product stewardship across packaging materials and the packaging supply chain. QLDC Waste Minimisation Project Officer Kath Buttar said it represented just 515kg of the total sample of 145,730kg collected glass that was audited. “With contamination at well below 1% the audit demonstrates how well our community is doing with glass recycling. Glass bottles and jars collected in our district are sent to Auckland to be recycled into new containers right here in Aotearoa New Zealand. Glass which is too highly contaminated can’t be recycled so it’s important we keep monitoring what we collect and encourage the community to continue recycling with care,” she said. “With the help of Council contractors and the GPF, the audit has enabled us to collect
comprehensive data on the quality of all incoming glass and find out more about the type and level of contamination so we could take steps to address it. The majority of contamination found was general rubbish and non-recyclable glass like wine or drinking glasses ending up in the blue bin, but other recyclables, such as plastic and cans which should go into the yellow bin, and ceramics were also identified,” she said. “We now have an improved understanding of areas we need to focus on, such as ongoing operational and educational initiatives, to help keep our glass of good quality.” The audit was conducted over three months with Council staff developing an innovative online reporting system which Ms Buttar said not only made gathering data easy and effective but also allowed progress to be tracked in real time. GPF Scheme Manager Dominic Salmon said the Council did an impressive job. He also commended residents and businesses for the very low contamination rates. “It’s really good to see results like this. Keeping glass as free from contamination as possible is essential to ensuring it gets recycled and doesn’t end up being wasted in landfill,” he says.
It’s blooming horrible dgeable team about how you Come and talk to our knowle es. ty during these uncertain tim can strengthen your immuni The blooms make lakes and ponds look like pea soup.
The Otago Regional Council (ORC) is reminding people to be on the lookout for toxic algae following confirmed toxic algal blooms in Waianakarua River and Butcher’s Dam last week. The Cardrona and the Hāwea River have seen blooms in the past, as has Lake Hayes as well. ORC Lakes Scientist Hugo Borges said ingesting these algae could make humans and pets sick. “Toxic algae, or cyanobacteria, thrive in warm, nutrient-rich conditions and when river flows are lower than normal, so these blooms are fairly common throughout all of New Zealand at this time of year. Similar warning have been made in other parts of the country including on Lake Ngaroto in Waipā, where an extreme alert was announced last weekend. The bloom there has killed thousands of fish. “In lakes and ponds it looks like pea soup, and in rivers it looks like black-brown tar on rocks and in mats on the riverside,” Hugo Borges said. “Our best advice is for people to learn how to recognise these algae and practice caution around lakes and rivers in summer. If in doubt, stay out. If
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ingested, toxic algae can cause significant illness and can be fatal for dogs, who can be particularly attracted to the smell of algal mats from rivers.” While toxic algae blooms have been confirmed at two locations recently, they can appear anywhere in Otago. “For most of the year, these algae are present in smaller amounts, and it’s only in the right conditions that they bloom and can cause issues. This can happen anywhere in the region, and while ORC staff look out for algae during the weekly water quality checks in summer, we can’t cover every waterway in Otago all of the time. “That’s why it’s important for people to learn how to identify toxic algae, stay vigilant, and report sightings of potentially toxic algae to ORC.” Anyone experiencing a reaction from contact with toxic algae should seek urgent medical attention, and any signs that a dog may have consumed toxic algae, such as lethargy, muscle tremors, fast breathing, twitching, paralysis and convulsion, should be treated as an emergency and referred to a vet immediately. To report algal blooms in Otago lakes and rivers, contact the pollution hotline: 0800 800 033.
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Normal service resuming…
Repair work to power lines and poles damage in the Emerald Bay fire early this month has been completed by Aurora Energy and the switch back should be tomorrow. Several power poles were destroyed in the fire and 78 customers in the area were supplied power by a generator or switched to a temporary supply while the complex repair work was done. The fire service has still to confirm the cause of the blaze which ripped through 280ha of regenerating native flora after starting at Glendhu Bay on January 9. Fire fighters spent four days containing the fire. The repair work included some forward planning. Aurora Energy General Manager Operations and Network Performance Matt Settle said some additional work was carried out at the same time, to future proof the network in the area and prevent the need to disrupt the rejuvenation of vegetation. “We knew there were some poles near the fire site that weren’t damaged by the fire but due to be replaced within the next five years, so we made the decision to replace them now. “We wanted to leave the area without the need to re-enter, so vegetation can recover without being disturbed again. The Department of Conservation was happy for us to do this and supported our approach,” he said.
Repair work following the fire has included replacing poles which would otherwise have been taken away in the next five years.
Four other poles were replaced, and one pole removed to straighten a kink in the line span. “Our contractors, Delta, worked in some challenging conditions while doing the repair work, and we’re also grateful to DOC and local land owners for giving us access to their land,” Mr Settle said. Customers can expect to be without power between 3 and 5pm tomorrow (Friday) while they are switched back to their usual electricity supply. Aurora Energy staff have contacted the customers to advise them of the temporary outage. Nikki Holmes, Pou Matarautaki DOC
Wānaka Camera Club member Margaret Hurley took this shot, showing the scale of the fire, during the blaze.
Operations Manager Central Otago, said the greatest impact of the fire is likely the loss of mature lowland forest in a region where examples of this forest type are rare. She said that “miraculously”, Diamond Lake and The Rocky Summit Track were untouched. Most of the damage to DOC land appeared
to be to Hospital Flat and Glendhu Bluffs, areas which were retired to DOC by the Macrae family, whose neighbouring Glendhu Station also suffered loss due to the fire. As of the middle of last week DOC had not been able to undertake a survey of vegetation lost in the fire.
Bluff work starts Work to stabilise Nevis Bluff, between Cromwell and Queenstown, will run through to May. The Aspiring Highways team, working for Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, started work on the State Highway 6 bluff known as the Yates Feature, this week. Monitoring of the rock face showed an increase in movement recently, and as the 400-tonne rock is perched as high as 160 metres above the highway, making it safe is a high priority. Robert Choveaux, Senior Network Manager, Central Otago for Waka Kotahi, says monitoring of the Yates Feature increased late last year and over the festive period. Aside from manual monitoring, the Yates Feature has been watched by a remote system developed by WSP Research for the past two years. The system measures small amounts of movement, and temperature, in the rock and sends this information out via the cellular network to geotechnical engineers who assess the data. “This is the first time this technology has been applied in this way in New Zealand. Having continuous data from the Yates Feature over the Christmas-New Year period provided clarity over the holiday period,” says Mr Choveaux. “Further movement and fresh cracking have now been observed, and we are mobilising our team to intervene to stabilise the rock and try to prevent an uncontrolled collapse. “Designs have been completed and we are now in a position to begin work. Due to the nature of the plans, which includes building platforms using scaffolding on the rock face, logistics are tricky.” Crews will spend the first two weeks preparing the site before drilling starts. The physical properties of the schist rock make it susceptible to ongoing weathering through winter freeze/ thaw conditions and drying out due to hot and windy conditions, says Mr Choveaux. “Rain also reacts with the minerals in the schist, weakening it further. When added with the angle at which the feature sits on the rock face – these all undermine its structural integrity.” The work will involve stabilising the rock mass with just under 100 rock bolts.
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Abseilers Wayo Carson and Clinton Beavan installing the remote monitoring system on the Yates Feature in 2019.
“The majority of the work can be completed with the road remaining open to two lanes with minimal disruption to road users, but there will need to be closures as abseilers and drilling gear is set up and moved around the rock face,” Mr Choveaux said. The work is expected to take 16 weeks. “Given the current levels of
movement, we are comfortable with the timeframes we have in place to get this safety work started. However, should conditions change we will move immediately and implement closures if needed.” People who travel between Cromwell and Queenstown should expect short delays, up to 10 minutes at a time on weekdays between 8am and 5pm.
Red marks the spot: how the Yates Feature overlooks State Highway 6.
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Crimeline Kia Ora team! This week’s Crimeline begins with our officers, accompanied with many of our local volunteers and supporting organisations attending a fatal vehicle crash in the early hours of Monday morning. It’s a sobering reminder to the fragility of life and something that we often take for granted. The investigation into the circumstance is something that is obviously underway, so for now our thoughts are with those effected by the tragedy. The day continued with a water rescue on Lake Wānaka. Riders on a jetski had inadvertently sucked up their tow rope into the intake. Tensions were then high at BP petrol station when a conversation was perhaps taken out of context which led to some heated words from a customer. The team then spent some time in Albert Town after some neighbourhood issues raised their heads. By all means, we encourage people to talk to each other, but there’s a line where police may be better placed to have those conversations. A further water rescue on Lake Wānaka occurred, and we were only on Tuesday. This amounted to a full response from the Coastguard to a suspected capsized boat. A special thanks goes out to local boaties and crews who heard the call on channel 66 and assisted with the search. The rest of the week saw a significant number
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A regular update from Wānaka Community Board Chair, Barry Bruce Happy New Year everyone! I hope you’ve been enjoying the sunshine and the summer activities that have been on offer in the region. There’re plenty more to come. Water use The hot days have seen demand for water soar, so please reduce your use as much as possible to conserve supplies. Water restrictions had to be imposed at Lake Hāwea when significant demand saw water being drawn from the reservoir faster than it could be replaced. Those restrictions were lifted this week when demand fell to more sustainable levels, but please use water wisely so no further restrictions are needed. More tips and advice on conserving water can be found on the QLDC website. Waterfront plans The shared pathway, Te Ara Wānaka, and boardwalk created as part of Stage Three of the Wānaka Lakefront Development Plan are proving very popular and have been well used over the holidays. I have received a lot of great comments from visitors and locals. New information panels installed on the boardwalk along the lake’s edge include details about the much-loved grebe nesting nearby, and of other fauna and flora found around Lake Wānaka. Tenders for Stage Two along the waterfront between Dungarvon and McDougall streets have closed, so that work will begin next. Feedback on the concept plan for Stage Five, which runs from Wānaka Marina to the Yacht Club and the start of the Eely Point track, is being reviewed and will inform a detailed design of the area to be released later in the year. Thanks to everyone who had their say. Mt Iron The announcement just before Christmas that the Queenstown Lakes District Council has struck a deal to buy Mt Iron and Little Mt Iron land for a 100-hectare public reserve has generated great excitement. The land will be held in perpetuity for community use, and already the Wānaka Community Board is receiving suggestions of what that might include. However, first the purchase is subject to final due diligence, and then a reserve management plan will be produced, which will be done in consultation with the community. That process may be some way off yet, but we’ll be keen to hear from you when the planning starts. Watch this space. Water safety Behaviour on our waterways over the Christmas-New
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Year period was pleasing, with only three infringement notices issued — two for use of a powered vessel on the Mata-Au Clutha River during a prohibited period and one for exceeding 5 knots within 50 metres of a vessel on Lake Wānaka. This allowed the waterways officers to put a strong focus on education. Keep it up and stay safe out on the water. Covid Again on the theme of keeping our community safe, it was exciting to see our district reach its target of having 95% of eligible residents fully vaccinated against Covid-19 before Christmas. That percentage continues to climb, but with the threat of Omicron hanging over us, I would urge those who have yet to be vaccinated, and those who now qualify for booster shots, to get in quick. Vaccine certificates are required for anyone aged over 12 years and 3 months entering most Council facilities and venues, and Council staff are trying to bolster alternative ways of accessing services where possible. Free Covid-19 vaccinations can be booked online at bookmyvaccine.nz Board News The Community Board is expecting a busy year, with some important issues on the horizon. Community consultations on the 2022-2023 QLDC Annual Plan and the next iteration of the Climate Action and Biodiversity Plan are scheduled for March and April. Keep your eye out for more details and make sure you have your say. Details of current community consultations can be found on let’stalk.qldc.govt.nz. Register if you would like to receive the Let’s Talk newsletter. Wānaka Community Board members are also keen to hear your views, and hold monthly pop-in sessions. The first of the year will be held on February 2 at the Wānaka Recreation Centre. Call in for a cuppa between noon and 1pm and let us know what’s on your mind. THURSDAY 27.01.22 - WEDNESDAY 02.02.22
of responses for families in moments of crisis, and in some instances involved parties being separated and or someone being arrested. If you’re in a relationship that you don’t want to be in, or are concerned about, come and see us. No judgement, just someone who will listen and give you good advice. You may have seen we have had the booze bus team in town over the last couple of weeks. We are hoping this is a reminder for people to arrange safe rides home after having a couple of drinks. Unfortunately, there are still some disappointing results popping up with many people off to court to explain themselves to the judge. We would like to give the Wānaka Search and Rescue team a big thanks for a successful rescue on Mt Earnslaw last week. This resulted in a safe return with no injuries to anyone. It is a timely reminder that when you are planning a hike to ensure you check weather reports and ensure you tell friends or family where you are going. As many have been enjoying the hotter days out on the lake, there have been various boating and swimming items handed in to the station as found property. If you are missing anything, please pop into the station. Be safe, be kind and make each day count. – By Kiriana Flannery, Constable, NZPD
Reds is here… what the experts say The decision to take the country into red on the Covid traffic light system has had a major impact on events planned around the country. The Wānaka Sun runs a selection of comments from experts. Associate Professor James Ussher, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago: "Given the amount of Omicron circulating overseas and presenting at the border, this was inevitable. It is unlikely that we will be able to stamp this out. Ultimately, we will need to accept endemic SARSCoV-2 circulation in New Zealand. "A move to red is sensible and will help slow transmission of Omicron, enabling administration of boosters and primary vaccination courses and reducing the impact on our health system." Dr Matthew Parry, Senior Lecturer, Dept of Mathematics & Statistics, and Associate Dean International (Sciences), University of Otago, and New Zealand Statistical Association President: "I am pleased that some contacts of close contacts will also be asked to isolate. Although this is asking a lot of people, because Omicron is so transmissible this is an important way to buy more time for boosters and for vaccinations for 5–11-yearolds." Associate Professor Siouxsie Wiles, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland: "It is obviously distressing to hear that Omicron is now in the community in New Zealand, but we knew it was only a matter of time given how widespread this variant is around the world. It is important to
Souxsie Wiles
remember that this virus is spread through the air and that people can be infectious before they realise they are infected. This means that wearing a mask is really important - one that fits well and covers your mouth and nose. "Recent studies have shown that three doses of the Pfizer vaccine provide really good protection against serious disease from Omicron, so I urge people to get boosted as soon as they are eligible. I also urge all parents to vaccinate their children. Dr Amanda Kvalsvig, Epidemiologist and Senior Research Fellow, Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington: " The Government needs to move away from its current stance on respirator masks which appears to be that the public would not understand how to wear them. This stance would deny New Zealanders one of the most effective protections that they have just now. Respirator masks are standard wear in many countries and there is abundant clear and straightforward advice about their use.
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COMMUNITY NETWORKS WĀNAKA Help and advice
We hope everyone is keeping safe and well. Community Networks/Link will continue to provide a service to all under the Covid-19 red traffic light setting. Things are working a little differently from what you may be used to. Wherever possible, please give our friendly team a call on 03 443 7799 to make an appointment before visiting us at the Wānaka Community Hub. If you have an appointment with us and do not hold a valid vaccine pass, you will be asked to wait on the far side of reception to ensure we can continue to welcome everyone safely. Please observe signage on the entrance to the Hub building. We have increased cleaning of the building and rooms between appointments, set up Perspex screens at the front desk and will have multiple doors and windows open whenever possible for ventilation. Please continue to scan or sign in, wear a mask, and keep your distance from others. And of course, if you're unwell, have been to a location of interest in the last 14 days or are awaiting the results of a Covid-19 test, please stay at home. We thank you for your patience and understanding as we manage an everchanging situation. As our community prepares for the arrival of Covid-19’s Omicron variant, there is a range of information and support available on the government’s Covid-19 website to assist you with making a plan, working out what you’ll need, and what to expect when self-isolating. Community Networks/Link are here to support the welfare needs of individuals and whānau in the community or while isolating at home and will be available to connect you to further support. If you need support or guidance, call us. Remember that it’s normal to feel anxious or stressed in times of difficulty. For support with anxiety, distress or mental wellbeing, you can call or text 1737 to talk with a trained counsellor for free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The Te Hau Toka Southern Lakes Wellbeing Group has a range of wellbeing resources available on their website and publish regional health/wellbeing news and tips on their Facebook page. Finally, a reminder that vaccination continues to be our best defence against Covid-19. If it’s been at least four months since your second dose, you can now book your booster shot online at www.BookMyVaccine. nz. You'll also be able to book vaccination appointments for tamariki aged 5 to 11.
Fore! Frisbee approaching
Dom Hayden “putting” the sixth hole.
Two years of preparation work has paid off for the builders of Wānaka’s newest golf course with a difference. A free nine-hole course – The Confluence - has been opened by Disc Golf Wānaka with approval from Land Information New Zealand. Disc golf is effectively golf played with frisbees which must be caught in metal baskets. The new course is in Albert Town and found off Kinnibeg Street following signs for Upper Clutha River Track. Walk upstream to the Pawson’s Crossing footbridge, cross over and walk back downstream along the trail to find the first tee. “For the past two years we have been carving and shaping lines, clearing fairways and pulling thistle to create a challenging course on the banks of the Cardrona and Mata-Au (Clutha) rivers,” Cooper Sollis explained. Ed Waddington, Sollis and Ryan Cambridge designed the course and spent hundreds of voluntary hours clearing the course with nothing
more than handsaws and gloves. “This has been a brilliant project to be a part of. Creating a disc golf course is super fun and really rewarding,” Sollis said. “When I see people playing it fills me with joy knowing we created something beautiful. I’ve spoken to passers-by who are interested in what we’ve been up to. They all seem keen to give it a go and can’t believe it’s a free sport. Many walkers are enjoying the new avenues through the willows we’ve created. If you’re ever in the area, take a walk off the trail and explore the new scenes. The course is something we are very proud of.” This course is not for the faint-hearted, offering long, tight holes where landing off the fairway can put you over par quickly. The course does offer “B Tee’s” - indicated by detached branches - that are beginner friendly. It’s recommended players wear longs to avoid being scratched by thistle and nettle – and have a
“spotter on each hole to help track discs Sollis said Disc Golf Wānaka was an incorporated society with charitable purposes. “We are a small but super active club - we host three New Zealand Disc Golf Tour events per year, one in Wānaka one in Twizel and one on the Paradise Trust near Glenorchy.” There are various “pop up” courses in the Wānaka region, Sunday social rounds, League rounds and Night Disc Golf. “Our vision is to enable people of all ages and abilities to play disc golf for social, physical and mental benefits on a range of free to use disc golf courses that cater to all levels of play,” Sollis said. Disc golf started in California 1975. Since 2000, the game has been growing rapidly. It is most popular in North America and Northwest Europe. Finland, with a population not much larger than New Zealand, has over 700 courses. It is believed the number of courses in New Zealand is close to 100.
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A MUM
When dad goes back to work My partner returned to work last week after more than three weeks off. While Tobias was fine with the shift, I certainly wasn't ready for it. I had become accustomed to having an extra pair of hands around the house and sleeping past 7am. But all this changed last Monday when I reverted back to our early mornings. It sounds a bit silly but it's surprising how much of a difference three weeks can make. I had slipped out of our usual daily routine and had become far slower at everything. Even getting out
of bed was hard. Holiday mode was over and I had to get over it. But despite all of my grumbles, Tobias and I actually had a good week. We spent most of our time at the park or in the lake. You see, back in the UK this time of year is pretty miserable. January is defined by no money, dark mornings, and bad weather. But while my friends and family are enduring a harsh winter, we have been basking in the sunshine. One of Toby's latest pastimes is feeding the
seagulls. That's right. He really loves seagulls at the moment and last week he decided to give them some of his lunch. Before we knew it we were surrounded by seagulls. While I was trying not to freak out, Tobias couldn't have been happier. So while I am desperately missing my partner and long for another break already, I am blessed that we are here in Wānaka soaking up the January sunshine. Whatever the next few weeks bring, I'm so grateful for the outdoor adventures Tobias and I can have together. Even if I am exhausted already. – By Daisy Watford
RE-BIRTH OF THE COOL A Tribute to Miles Davis
by Ralph Miller Nonet
Commercial and residential landscaping
SATURDAY 29 JAN, 7.30 PM LAKE WANAKA CENTRE 89 ARDMORE ST
Fulton Hogan’s highly skilled team deliver your landscaping requirements from design concepts, to construction including: • landscape design • tree pruning • stonework • turf install and repair • irrigation • exotic/native plant supply • paving • ongoing landscape • timber features maintenance • water features • vegetation control and mowing. • arboriculture
POSTPONED
ADULTS: $35; SCHOOL PUPILS: FREE Presented by The Dunedin Jazz Club &
REFUNDS - 0274 732 249 or info@wanakaconcertsociety.org.nz Wanaka Concert Society. Supported by QLDC.
Covid requirements apply including showing your Covid-19 passport and wearing a mask.
Cash ticket sales at Gifted Design Store, 19 Helwick Street, Wānaka. Online sales at www.eventfinda.co.nz, Booking Fee applies. Cash door-sales from 6.30pm at Lake Wanaka Centre.
Building communities
For a free no obligation quote call: Phone 03 440 0500 www.fultonhogan.com
Visit dunedinjazz.club & www.wanakaconcertsociety.org.nz
THE WĀNAKA SUN
THURSDAY 27.01.22 - WEDNESDAY 02.02.22
PAGE 9
Sun Classifieds
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Contact Johnny Ph: 0224 SKIP IT (754 748) • W: www.skipit.nz When you want to get rid of it - just skip it!
SITUATION VACANT
GIB STOPPING
CAN YOU GET IT WRITE? We are looking for a talented writer with energy and passion to make The Sun shine. Is it you? Does writing community news excite you? Can you build up a contact list and get stories from our schools, service and sports clubs? Can you become the go-to person when newsmakers in our community look for publicity? Can you monitor organisations and see stories where others can’t? Are we looking for someone who will devote a day to a story? No. This role requires a quick-thinking nimble journalist who can get the balance right between quantity and quality. If it’s you, then start writing now - tell us about yourself and why you should be in our newsroom. If you are looking for a challenging role in a positive, friendly environment, plus the benefits of working in one of the fastest-growing regions in the country, apply today to admin@thewanakasun.co.nz with your CV and cover letter. Applicants must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand.
SITUATION VACANT
ARE YOU OUR NEW EDITOR? A unique position in one of New Zealand’s most desirable communities has become available at The Wānaka Sun. We are looking for a full-time editor who can build on recent changes in our weekly publication and drive up readership on our on-line platform. The successful applicant will be a respected multi-skilled journalist with a reputation for outstanding communication, organisation and leadership – and someone comfortable with a camera and digital media. He or she will constantly update our website and produce a weekly print product filled with breaking news, well subbed supplied content, regular columns and great photography. Our new editor will, ideally, arrive with a sound knowledge of Wānaka. Journalism will be our new editor’s life, not 9-to-5. The successful applicant will see this role as a long-term appointment. Organising content and building contacts will be two of the major strengths of our new editor who will work in the community. Our new editor will be a self-starter, highly motivated and flexible. Mentoring will be available if our new editor requires it.
If you are looking for a challenging role in a positive, friendly environment, plus the benefits of working in one of the fastest-growing regions in the country, apply today to admin@thewanakasun.co.nz with your CV and cover letter. Applicants must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand.
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Up to and including the 3rd February #GibStoppingSpecialists Aspiring Interiors Offers Gib Stopping in Wanaka any size. Paint Ready Finish (can provide professional painters details). Machine Tools. Respectful. Clean & Tidy. Deadlines Are A Priority. Call Kahu 0210 2793 648 or Email plans contact@aspiringinteriors.co.nz
WHAT’S ON 13th, 20th and 27th February Give Karate a go! Start your journey to black belt now at Wanaka Samurai Karate Club. Self defense, sports karate, traditional karate Tuesdays and Wednesdays at the Wanaka Primary School Hall. Check us out on Facebook: Wanaka Samurai Karate and contact Sensei Gabriela on 027 2106459 or gabriela_schmidt@hotmail.com
OFFICE SPACE Office Space for Rent. 35sqm 99 Ardmore St (above Relishes Cafe) - short or long term. For details email: manager@heliski.co.nz
WANTED LEADING HAND TO WORK AND RUN A BUSY FIREWOOD YARD. Must be able to work heavy machinery and be willing to obtain a Class 2 Licence. Onsite training will be given. Phone Wayne on 027 285 2995 or email office@dixontransport.co.nz.
THURSDAY 27.01.22 - WEDNESDAY 02.02.22
SERVICE
THANKS
Wanaka Pharmacy is your local pharmacy. We’re the big pharmacy at the top of Helwick Street - open from 8 to 6 Monday to Saturday and 10 to 6 on Sundays. Ph 443 8000. The Salvation Army Family Store is open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and Saturdays 9.30am to 4pm and most statutory holidays. We look forward to seeing you in our wonderful store.
Thanks to everyone who comes to Wastebusters to donate goods, shop and recycle. Your support helps us work for zero waste and a resourceful community.
WANTED The Salvation Army Family store requires a volunteer to assist our van driver Danny on a Thursday with pickups and deliveries. If this sounds like you, please pop into the store for some more information. Lifting of furniture will be required. The Salvation Army Family Store requires good quality household goods, if you can help this would be appreciated. Your donations can be dropped at 48 Helwick street or phone for a pick up 443 5068
NOTICE Cut rags (100% cotton) and drop cloths, only $7 for a big bag. Now in the yard container at Wastebusters. Open 9-5 seven days. Business Networking International. The Wanaka chapter of BNI meets weekly at 7am Tuesday morning. Great networking opportunity to grow your business. Contact Randal Dobbs for information 021 973 043 The Salvation Army Family Store is able to collect your donations, this service is available one day a week please phone the store on 443 5068 to make a booking.
STORAGE
Clean, dry, safe storage available now. Ezystor Self Storage, 12 Gordon Road, Wānaka, Ph: 021 242 1630.
SUN TEAM WĀNAKA’S INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER ISSUE 1063 Free delivery to Wānaka, Cromwell and surrounds, PO boxes in Makarora, Cromwell, Haast, Wānaka, Albert Town and Hāwea. Also distributed to businesses in the Wānaka business district Average circulation: 15,000 weekly. Phone: 03 443 5252 • Fax: 03 443 5250 News Editor: Roy Pilott • 027 4500 115 editor@thewanakasun.co.nz News tips: editor@thewanakasun.co.nz Advertising: adrep@thewanakasun.co.nz Admin: Benn Ashford • 021 956 740 admin@thewanakasun.co.nz Mail: PO Box 697, Wānaka Deadlines: Display Advertising
4pm Friday prior to publication. marketing@thewanakasun.co.nz 03 443 5252 Classified Advertising 5pm Monday prior admin@thewanakasun.co.nz Subscriptions: $175 within NZ (including GST) per year. Overseas rates on request. Remittances to PO Box 697, Wānaka, NZ.
THE WĀNAKA SUN
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PUBLIC NOTICE
SITUATION VACANT
N o t i c e b o a rd | P a p a P ā n u i Glendhu Bay / Rotary Park Reserve temporary closures Temporary closures will be in place for Rotary Park Reserve and Glendhu Bay waterways to allow a Restricted Area for the safe completion of the 2022 Challenge Wanaka swim events. An alternative boat launch site has been negotiated within Glendhu Camp for those that wish to access Lake Wānaka outside of the Restricted Area. Thursday 17 February 2022 Time: 8.00am - 1.00pm Location: Western side of Glendhu Bay including Rotary Park Reserve launch ramp Friday 18 February 2022 Time: 9.30am - 11.00am Location: Western side of Glendhu Bay including Rotary Park Reserve launch ramp Saturday 19 February 2022 Time: 6.00am - 12.00pm Location: Western side of Glendhu Bay including Rotary Park Reserve launch ramp Any queries or concerns in relation to these temporary closures should be directed to Queenstown Lakes District Council’s Waterways Team, via phone on 03 443 0024 or email to services@qldc.govt.nz.
Private Bag 50072 | 47 Ardmore Street Wānaka Phone 03 443 0024 | www.qldc.govt.nz
PUBLIC NOTICE
SITUATION VACANT
TERM 1 2022 begins on Wednesday 2nd February Students are requested to assemble outside their allocated Pods by 9.00am – dressed in full uniform, including a sunhat. • Pod 1 – Year 1 • Pod 3 – Year 2 • Pod 4 – Years 3 & 4 • Pod 5 – Years 3 & 4 • Pod 7 – Years 5 & 6 • Pod 8 – Years 5 & 6
STUDENTS IN THE COMMUNITY CO-ORDINATOR Start date: to be negotiated.
New enrolments, who have not previously contacted the school, are welcome at 10.00am on Tuesday 1st February to complete enrolment and participate in a tour of the school. Please check the Wānaka Primary School website for zoning information. Those outside of the Wānaka Primary School zone, should contact Take Kārara – takekarara.school.nz. Class Lists are displayed on the school office window and stationery lists are available on the school website – www. wanaka.school.nz. Stationery requirements for all students are available from Paper Plus Wānaka and stationery should be brought to school on Wednesday 2nd February.
The role is primarily focused on supporting senior MAC students to fulfill their service to the community projects. It will involve supporting students in terms of finding opportunities where they can give service, and liaising with community groups. If you like working with teenagers, are patient, steadfast, flexible, and have a sense of humour, this could be the job for you. The position is 20 hrs per week, term time only, and is fixed term for 2022 (parental leave position). Hours to be negotiated. Pay for this role is in accordance with the Support Staff Collective Agreement for Secondary Schools. Applications close at 4.00pm, Thursday 3rd February 2022. An application form and job description is available on: www.mtaspiring.school.nz/vacancies. Please submit applications with a covering letter and CV to: learn@mtaspiring.school.nz.
SITUATION VACANT
ORDER PACKER Epic Fly Rods / The Swift Fly Fishing Company. Wanaka. Come and be part of an exciting, rapidly growing International brand. Full time role. You will be an integral member of a fun, talented export team, picking and packing orders for discerning customers worldwide. The roll entails assembling and packing orders for shipping and generally being awesome. This is not a customer facing position. Requirements: • To be able to focus and have superb attention to detail • To be able to pack orders to a very high standard of accuracy • Be comfortable packing & assembling small items to a high standard of accuracy • Be comfortable with minor part preparation • Be responsible for a high level of quality control • Have solid written and numeracy skills • Be comfortable working unsupervised • You will need to be reliable, honest and have a pleasant and patient demeanour • You’ll be able to work well under pressure and integrate well with a small efficient team You’ll Receive • Respect for excellence and a heap of fun in a high functioning but relaxed workplace • Full training in a key roll in a rapidly growing highly regarded international company • Competitive renumeration package beginning @ $22.50hr / $46,800 P/A • If this sounds like you drop us an email with your CV and a few words on why you’re a good fit to contact@swiftflyfishing.com
We currently have one permanent position working a minimum of 30 hours each week across 7 days. Do you have what we are looking for? • Previous experience within a retail/customer facing role • Interest in all things pharmacy related, including but not limited to make up, fragrances, health and wellbeing • Strong customer service focus to meet customer needs and expectations • Flexible, adaptable and good customer empathy • Honesty, integrity and an understanding and significance of confidentiality • Excellent communication skills and a high standard of grooming • Be able to be a team player and work under pressure • Ability to work weekends and flexibility to cover leave • Understanding of cash handling and end of day procedures • Above all else a willingness to learn and grow with the business Applicants for these positions should have NZ residency or a valid NZ work permit, and ideally permanent local residents. Please send your CV to wpl@pembroke.co.nz together with a covering letter outlining your background and why you'd be such an excellent fit within our team. Wanaka's original pharmacy (est. 1971) open all day, everyday including public holidays.
Phone: 03 443 8000 Top of Helwick St, Wānaka
OPEN: MON-SAT 8AM TO 6PM | SUN 10AM TO 6PM
YOUR AD WILL REACH THE MOST LOCALS ONLINE IN www.thewanakasun.co.nz
THE WĀNAKA SUN
THURSDAY 27.01.22 - WEDNESDAY 02.02.22
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Sun Sport
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Cycling pro provides a boost Five aspiring Wānaka athletes and their teammates were delighted at the weekend to spend time with professional racing cyclist Reuben Thompson. Thompson rides for UCI Continental team Groupama-FDJ. Last July, he celebrated the biggest win of his career, taking home all the main jerseys in the Giro della Valle d'Aosta. He will ride again in Europe during 2022 before joining as a rider in the World Tour from 2023. On Friday morning, the cyclists had just ridden up the Remarkables when Reuben joined them on the road for a chat and a “relaxed” ride up Coronet Peak - a very familiar hill, as he grew up in Queenstown. On Saturday he came over to Wānaka to spend an evening with the team, including a questionand-answer session. Carter Guichard, 15, said that it was “awesome” to spend a few hours with a pro rider.
“It’s not every day you get to spend time with a pro cyclist and ask him anything, plus be on a bike alongside him. It was so cool that Reuben took time out of his training schedule to share his experiences as a kiwi rider in Europe.” Southern Junior is a development team registered with Cycling New Zealand. The team is based in Wānaka and has five riders from Wānaka (McKay Watson, Carter Guichard, Max Good, Hugo Sinclair and Josh Moody), Eli Tregidga from Queenstown and riders Tom Kerr and Magnus Jamieson from Invercargill. In the first race of the season on January 16, three of the team achieved top 10 finishes in the Criterium Nationals in Christchurch in the U17 age group. The boys are working towards a block of races over the next three months, culminating in Road Cycling Nationals, which will take place in Hokitika in April.
Hugo Sinclair of Wānaka was able to chat with Reuben Thompson as the team headed to Coronet Peak.
Swimmers get tips from the best
Here’s how – coach Thomas Ansorg talks to swim club members.
Former Olympic coach Thomas Ansorg has been working with Wānaka Swimming Club members. Ansorg has been a coach at three Olympic Games as well as numerous World Championships and Commonwealth Games. He has coached several Olympic and World Championship finalists including Moss Burmester who won the gold medal in the 200 Butterfly at the 2006 Commonwealth Games and was fourth in the same event at the 2008 Olympic Games then won the World Short Course Championships in the same year. He has been either a Swimming New Zealand Coach or Head Coach
at North Shore Swimming Club since arriving in New Zealand in 2002 and before that ran a successful club in South Africa Justin Carnie from CDL Building sponsored Thomas' trip to Wānaka and the coach took technique clinics with the club's competitive swimmers and helped with coach education, mentoring and club structure. “The swimmers all had a great time and learned a lot from Thomas, we hope he will be back again soon,” club spokesperson Ben Bagley told The Wānaka Sun. The club has three coaches Jackson Reardon, Cameron Stanley and Belinda Donaldson.
A good crowd gathered for the first night of Bowls3Five last Friday.
Bowl up, bowl up – it’s the young ones’ time No longer can a lawn bowling green be descibed as “a waiting room for Heaven”. With encouragement from Bowls New Zealand, the Hāwea Bowling Club is introducing the sport to a younger generation. Over the next five Friday nights, the club is hosting a Bowls3Five night for players who are keen to try their hand at bowls. Teams of three players compete over five ends, and already there are signs emerging of fierce competition ahead in coming weeks.
Hāwea Bowling Club president Gary Vogel is delighted with the response to the new competition. “It’s wonderful to see so many younger people wanting to have a go at the game”, Gary said. Sixteen teams have entered the competition with equal numbers of men and women taking part. Prizes are awarded each night of the competition and the overall winners will receive a significant sum of hard-earned money as well as the Vogel Trophy.
Something on your mind? Join us on Wednesday 2 February between noon and 1pm to discuss any local issues, big or small, with members of your Wānaka Community Board.
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The club hopes to attract some new members to take part in more serious competition next season. “We’re a growing club,” Gary said. “We have strong links to the Hāwea community, but we welcome people from further afield as well”. A number of players from the Hāwea club are playing for the Central Otago team this year. The club holds an open evening every Thursday night from 5pm and anyone interested in joining the club is welcome.
Drop into the on Centre ti a re c e R a k a n Wā a cuppa! for a chat and
Cuppa Clutha
THURSDAY 27.01.22 - WEDNESDAY 02.02.22
THE WĀNAKA SUN
