The MetService has issued an Orange heavy rain warning for the headwaters of Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea from 7pm tonight (December 7) until 4am Monday.An active front will move onto the South Island during Sunday, accompanied by heavy rain and northwest gales.Between 90 to 120mm of rain is expected about the main divide, and 50 to 80mm within 15km farther east.Heavy rain may cause streams and rivers to rise rapidly. Surface flooding and slips are also possible and driving conditions may be hazardous.Anyone heading into Mt Aspiring National Park is advised to take extra care or delay travel.

Shoppers are being urged to stay alert as online scammers ramp up activity in the lead-up to Christmas. Police said they are seeing a rising number of fraud cases, with Facebook Marketplace a particular hotspot.Southern District Police service delivery manager Senior Sergeant Blair Dalton said simple checks can prevent people from losing money during the busy shopping period.“A good first step when looking to purchase something on Marketplace is to check when the seller’s Facebook profile was created,” he said.He said recently created accounts carried a higher risk, and buyers should also ensure the seller’s profile name matches the bank account name provided.“We’re seeing a lot of scammers claiming their bank account name is different because it belongs to their partner or family member – that’s a huge red flag,” Blair said.He urged sellers not to rely on screenshots as proof of payment.“Check your own bank account to make sure a payment has gone through,” he said. “Quite frankly, it’s best for all parties to agree to pay, or be paid, for items in cash and in-person. Ideally in a public place with CCTV coverage.”Due diligence was essential for high-value purchases, particularly vehicles.“If you’re buying a car on Marketplace, check Carjam.co.nz to see if it’s stolen or if there’s money owed on it,” he said.Senior Sergeant Dalton said one piece of advice remained constant. “If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is.”Police are also seeing an increase in scammers posing as banks through texts, phone calls and emails.“Key things to remember are that a bank will never contact you asking for your login information,” he said. “Your bank will also never ask you to withdraw cash or ask you to deliver your bank card for collection.”Anyone with concerns should contact their bank immediately and report what has happened.“Suspicious activity can also be reported on 105,” he said.IMAGE: Stock Image

Wānaka-based climate action organisation Wao Aotearoa will launch or expand a range of initiatives next year - including climate-smart building training modules, expanded food resilience projects and deeper youth involvement - as part of its 2026 strategy.The new strategy sets Wao’s focus for 2026, aiming to strengthen communities and support long-term climate action in the Southern Lakes, while looking 100 years ahead.“Our 2026 strategy is about strengthening the systems already emerging in our community - and ensuring the decisions we make today protect the wellbeing of our mokopuna 100 years from now,” Wao general manager Monique Kelly said.“We want everyone to be part of shaping that future.”Wao’s initiatives for next year include an expansion of ‘Ride for Change’, its youth-focused active-transport initiative. PHOTO: WaoNew ‘Better Building’ training modules will be launched to provide practical and accessible training for architects, builders, designers, developers, and community members.Modules will include high-performance, low-carbon building, better material choices and circular design, embodied carbon and operational energy, healthy homes and wellbeing-focused design, and future-proofed, climate-resilient building practices. Food resilience work will also scale up, the organisation said, with plans to strengthen the Southern Lakes Kai Collective and support projects such as community harvest networks, grower-led workshops and seed-sharing programmes.Transport is another focus area. Wao plans to significantly expand ‘Ride for Change’ - its youth-focused active-transport initiative - to support a shift toward healthier, low-emission travel. Residents can get involved with Wao next year through its harvest festival, volunteering, or supporting its work via donations. PHOTO: WaoMeanwhile its Better Events Collective will introduce new tools and standards to help local events reduce waste and emissions.Expanded school engagement and Wao’s youth arm, ‘Gen Wao’, will support young people to lead, influence and design the solutions they want to inherit, Monique said.Wao recently presented its annual Sustainability Award at Mount Aspiring College to Year 13 student Nico Pettit.“If we want thriving communities in 2125, we must empower the voices who will live in that future,” Monique said.Nico Pettit, the recipient of Wao’s 2025 sustainability award. PHOTO: Wao“Our youth are not just participants - they are our partners in designing long-term, resilient systems.”Members of the public can get involved in Wao’s work next year through events such as the 2026 Harvest Festival, volunteering opportunities, or supporting initiatives via donations, Monique said.Learn more about Wao here.

New Year in Wānaka was the highlight of my teens. It was the trip everyone talked about all year, a summer holiday with your closest mates and half your school year in one place. For me, it was also a chance to step away from home and enjoy a bit of freedom: sunny days, boating, and that last stretch of summer with almost no responsibility.I stayed with family friends who treated me incredibly well. I knew how much time and effort went into hosting us, so being polite and pulling my weight felt non-negotiable. Helping with dinner, tidying up, and prepping the boat were small things, but they mattered if you wanted to be welcome again.Of course, being respectful in the house doesn’t always translate to perfect decisions out of it. Having the independence to roam around town with mates was thrilling especially because I’d grown up in a strict home where parties and alcohol weren’t really part of life. Wānaka felt like a place where we could test a few boundaries.That freedom came with some hard lessons. None of us really understood drinking or the rules around the liquor ban. We wandered the streets with our cans, thinking we were being responsible by binning them properly. It didn’t matter. The police stopped us, and as an intoxicated teen, I panicked. I made up almost every detail about myself, convinced it would keep me out of trouble. It didn’t. Officers ended up driving me back to my homestay.Looking back, I realise I completely misread their intentions. They weren’t out to catch us; they were trying to keep us safe. Instead of enjoying the night I’d been hyping up for months, I was back on the couch listening to the fireworks, all thanks to a hip flask of whiskey I’d snuck out.The thing that saved me was my friends. They gave the police the right details and made sure I got home safely. Their parents were incredibly kind too. Still, the regret hit hard the next morning.Path Wānaka often says, “Add to the party, don’t shut it down.” It’s simple, but it’s true. A bit of honesty, knowing your limits, staying in touch with the people you’re staying with, and looking out for your mates can make all the difference. No one wants to be the one who misses the countdown because the night tipped too far.Anonymous.A quick word for parentsStories like this are a good reminder that even the most level-headed teens can get caught out. A simple kōrero before they leave about drinking, limits, checking in, and sticking with their mates can make a real difference to how their night unfolds.If your teen is heading to Wānaka this summer, take a moment to plan together. Agree on how they’ll stay in touch, what they’ll do if things get messy, and who they can call if they need help.You’ll find practical tips, conversation starters, and planning tools on the Safe Summer Wānaka campaign page.Explore the resources here.Support them to have a brilliant time, and a safe one. Be a legend, not a liability.

Pure Team 7 Rab has stamped its authority on the One NZ GODZONE Chapter 12, winning the gruelling 613km race in six days, two hours and 15 minutes.Wānaka’s Simone Maier, racing alongside Sophie Hart, Chris Forne and Sam Clark, was part of the winning team, which was welcomed at the finish line in Picton on Thursday (December 4) by a large crew of friends, family and supporters.The 613km adventure race started at the Picton foreshore and ended at nearby Shelly Beach, with a vast clockwise loop in between which competitors navigated by trekking, mountain biking, kayaking, canoeing and packrafting.Rab was the only team to finish the entire 613km course - except for not climbing Mt Stokes on the stage seven packraft and trek due to a weather call directive by race officials.Speaking to the Wānaka App on Friday (December 5) en route back to Wānaka, Simone recalled crossing the finish line as “a massive relief”.“It had been such a huge adventure,” she said. She said the distances given to the teams by race organisers were usually estimates that you “always leave a bit of room for”, but many of the distances in this edition were far longer than they had expected.“We had to just adapt to the situation,” the GODZONE regular said. “You just tackle the course.”Simone also had a chest infection and she said she had a few “struggle days…but it’s amazing to see what your body can do when you just have to”.The camaraderie and strength among the team got them across the finish line. “We never raced really hard - we had a really good steady pace,” Simone said.Team captain Chris Forne described the race as the toughest one to date."My feelings, by comparison to other GODZONE chapters, are that this was probably the toughest course because of the length and physical nature,” he said. “It was a big course with a lot of weight carried over high vertical areas, a lot of physical on the ground…”Team Tiki Tour finished in second place while Nelson Vets Gearshop took third place.The top podium for the Pursuit category was Kaikoura Adventure U20, with the second-placed team being Southland Tri 6+6, and the third-placed team being Gizzy Gully Runners.“I think it’s been a tough course for some teams, but when GODZONE relaunched, we said it would be hard, and that’s what’s been delivered,” race director Adam Fairmaid said. “Overall, it’s been a great race in Marlborough, the region has been so welcoming, and the racers have got to see this very special part of New Zealand.”PHOTO: GODZONE

Summer in Wānaka is pure magic. Long, sun-soaked days, warm lake waters, and a backdrop of the Southern Alps make our lakeside town the ultimate destination for adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the holidays, there’s plenty happening to keep your calendar full. Here are some of my top recommendations to check out over the coming months.Kick off December with the Wānaka BeerFest on the 6th at the A&P Showgrounds. A celebration of craft brews, live music, and good vibes. For festive cheer, head to the Gather Christmas Market at Lake Hāwea on December 7, where local artisans and foodies showcase their best creations. And don’t miss the Upper Clutha Farmers Market, running select Sundays through summer, offering fresh produce and artisan treats for a perfect picnic by the lake.As the year winds down, the iconic Rhythm & Alps Festival (29 Dec – 1 Jan) takes over Cardrona Valley. This three-day music extravaganza is a rite of passage for New Year’s revellers, featuring international headliners and an unbeatable alpine atmosphere.January brings more big tunes with the Wānaka Summer Concert on the 31st at Three Parks Outdoor Arena. Rock legends Iggy Pop, Joan Jett & The Blackhearts, Hoodoo Gurus, and Kiwi favourites Zed will light up the stage for an unforgettable day of music. Personally I’m looking forward to seeing 80’s Aussie icons Hoodoo Gurus!February is all about fitness with the Challenge Wānaka Triathlon Festival (19–21 Feb). Celebrating its 20th year, this world-class event includes junior races, adaptive challenges, and the iconic middle-distance triathlon set against stunning alpine scenery. While you won’t see me on the course, it’s an event I always enjoy watching.March keeps the momentum going with two highlights: the legendary Motatapu (7 March), an epic off-road adventure across private high-country stations, and Ripe – The Wānaka Wine & Food Festival (21 March), where you can indulge in Central Otago’s finest wines, gourmet food, and live music at Glendhu Bay.Beyond events, Summer in Wānaka is all about the outdoors. Spend your mornings hiking our numerous tracks or biking the region’s 750km of trails, then cool off with afternoons spent at the lake. For a slower pace, explore local wineries and eateries, visit the Lavender Farm, pick strawberries at Red Bridge Strawberries, or catch a film at Cinema Paradiso with its famous freshly baked cookies.Summer is also a great time to come and visit some exciting prospects within Wanaka's property market. Check out open home dates and times for current listings, and keep a lookout for some exciting properties hitting the market in the New Year. I look forward to seeing you at the properties for sale or one of the many events on the calendar.See you out amongst it,Roger

The Upper Clutha Farmers’ Market is returning for summer and autumn, promising fresh fruits and vegetables, meats and cheese, bakery treats, honey, plants, flowers - and a relaxed Sunday vibe with live music.The seasonal market, first trialled last summer, will return on December 14, February 1, March 1 and April 12 at the Luggate Hall. Market founder Amanda Snow said last season’s community support inspired its return, with “so many locals coming along on their Sunday morning”. “This turnout was the encouragement we needed to continue the markets this season.”Market-goers can expect more than 25 stalls, with “lots of returning vendors and some new vendors too”, and the live music, popular at the previous trials, will return with “talented local musicians performing at all our markets”.Running the markets is a big job, but Amanda has support from a small volunteer committee - Jess Curtis, Rebecca Richards and Jessie Rasmussen - as well as her husband Byron, friends and family.Market-goers can expect live music and more than 25 vendors selling a wide range of produce.Graeme Perkins coordinates the live music, while the Luggate Community Association helps with setup and financial support, she said. “It’s done on a voluntary basis, so we fit it in around work and family,” Amanda said.She said it had been “really rewarding” seeing the public’s reactions to the markets held so far.“Hopefully the market becomes a regular Sunday event over the summer and autumn months - a place for shopping locally, catching up with friends and neighbours, and enjoying a nice coffee.”The Upper Clutha Farmers’ Market will take place from 9am-1pm at the Luggate Hall. Many vendors are cash-only so bringing cash is recommended.PHOTOS: Supplied

Otago Polytechnic is cooking up a new suite of programmes for the Central Otago community, following moves to reduce its physical footprint and focus resources on a more sustainable range of programmes.Otago Polytechnic operations deputy executive director Max Sims said approval has been given to deliver a level four cookery programme through a new Work Integrated Learning (WIL) model in the region, with the first intake in February 2026.The WIL pathway is designed to support a wide range of learners already working within the hospitality industry (for a minimum of 20 hours paid employment per week).Max said this includes staff in restaurants, cafés, hotels, and catering operations, as well as those employed in food service roles across tourism, retail, and institutional settings.“The flexible one-year, fulltime programme allows learners to remain in paid employment and is ideal for emerging chefs who want to formalise their skills and kitchen staff looking to step into more skilled positions,” he said. “It also suits employers wanting to develop committed, motivated team members without removing them from the workplace.”Occupational Therapy students explore the level of accessibility at Otago Polytechnic's Dunedin campus.The flexible learning is integrated into each trainee’s day-to-day role, and includes weekly one-on-one meetings with an Otago Polytechnic teaching staff member. They’ll also attend specialist technical masterclasses to be held in a professional kitchen at Dunstan High School.“We’ve already had positive interest from across the local sector and have begun conversations with some of Central Otago’s largest hospitality employers,” Max said.Meanwhile, Otago Polytechnic is pursuing approval to deliver its Bachelor of Occupational Therapy programme via a similar Work Augmented Learning pathway in Central Otago.Learners are required to be already in work in a health or wellbeing context (paid or volunteer) for a minimum or 15 hours per week (including in hospitals, community services, and schools), and able to undertake a mix of campus-based and online learning opportunities.“Otago Polytechnic believes creating a pool of therapists who are already local and have trained in the context of their own community has the potential to better meet the growing demand on health resources being experienced in the region,” Max said.He said the Central Otago team recently had a positive site accreditation visit by the Occupational Therapy Board of New Zealand (OTBNZ), and has begun the approval process with NZQA, hoping to have the first local intake in mid-2026.

Hāwea Flat resident Alan Keen grabbed $2,140.31 worth of groceries in the New World Three Parks Grocery Grab competition this morning (Thursday, December 4).​Randomly selected from 1,088 entrants in the annual event, Alan entered at the last minute after prompting from his wife, Tracy. “I got a call from [New World Three Parks co-owner] Dean [Bartley] and he said I’d won. I felt very excited and a little bit nervous,” Alan said. He said the two minutes he had to race around the store went “very quick”. “Everything is a blur. I had a plan; it didn’t go to plan,” Alan said.​Alan, who works as a project manager for NZ Post, said he and Tracy have called Hāwea Flat home for nearly 10 years. The couple donated part of their winnings to the Upper Clutha foodbank run by Community Link, with the rest earmarked for family Christmas celebrations. New World Three Parks matched the haul's value with its own donation to the foodbank.​“The objective is to support Community Link; it’s great for the winner to get the value of shopping, but really it is about helping out Community Link,” Dean said. “Community Link is special and we want to give back where we can.”Community Link representative Lindsey Schofield said the support from New World Three Parks is “amazing”. “The donation that New World Three Parks is making will help us support families doing it tough,” Lindsey said. “Its really going to help us make Christmas a lot happier for a lot of families.”The New World Three Parks Grocery Grab marks the store's anniversary while boosting the local food bank at Christmas time.PHOTO: Wānaka App

My wallet is full of loyalty cards, mostly for cafés. I drink a lot of coffee, so if there’s a chance for a free one, I’m in. The café isn’t doing this out of kindness, of course – they want me to keep coming back to spend money with them.Freebies like this aren’t an issue from a tax perspective, because they’re a private expense that doesn’t relate to my taxable income. However, some rebate schemes offer far more generous rewards than free coffee.If you’re a tradie, you’ll know what I mean. Trade suppliers run schemes where spending enough can earn you generous perks ranging from free tools to overseas travel. I’ve even heard of a customer who scored an all-expenses-paid trip to an international sporting event – now that’s loyalty.The problem is, freebies like these are taxable income, according to Inland Revenue.At this point it’s important to clarify the difference between a taxable freebie and a discount. Getting a reduced price for your loyalty doesn’t have any tax consequences, it just reduces the deduction you claim.But it’s a different story if you’re rewarded for your business expenditure in the form of something the business gives you, whether by way of cashback, voucher, gift card, physical goods or services. So what does this mean? Basically, the value of these gifts needs to be included in your tax return. This is fairly straightforward where you’re given a gift card or cashback – the face value should be included in your tax return.It’s a little more complex when you’re given goods. Income includes anything that can be exchanged for money, so that free mountain bike is income equal to its second-hand value, whether you actually sell it or let it gather dust in the garage.It’s important to know this isn’t just an academic issue. Inland Revenue are actively investigating and gathering information on this, including from trade suppliers, and will be contacting taxpayers they think have been omitting income.If you’re unsure about your tax obligations in this area, please get in touch.Alex CullTax Partner, Greenhawk Chartered Accountants0800 422 526 | [email protected] | greenhawk.co.nz

With the sign off by Wānaka Golf Club to permit the removal and replacement of its boundary trees, the last leg of Wānaka’s Schools to Pool (S2P) shared pathway is heading towards completion.Last month, club members agreed to a deal with Three Park’s Properties Ltd (TPPL) to remove about 650 wilding tree species along its 17th and 18th hole boundaries with Three Parks. The deal includes the replacement of the trees (two for one) and considerable landscaping.With the large trees gone, TPPL will be able to start work on both the S2P pathway and the long-awaited connector road from the town end of Ballantyne Road directly into Three Parks, TPPL managing director Allan Dippie told the Wānaka App.The last leg of S2P is only about 600 metres long, he said, and will connect the Ballantyne Road traffic lights crossing point (near the Golf Club entrance) directly to Take Kārara primary school, on Grace Wright Drive, and on to the Wānaka Recreation Centre and pool.Wānaka Upper Clutha Community Board chair Simon Telfer said the board was “as eager as everyone” to have the last leg of the S2P pathway formalised. S2P began as a public initiative in 2018 with the discussions for a safe pathway for students to travel 4.5kms across town. Work began on the first leg of the three metre-wide asphalt path in 2023, starting at the Kelly’s Flat Reserve bordered by the Holy Family Catholic School and Wānaka Primary School. A concept design of the irregular ‘roundabout’ proposed for Ballantyne/Golf Course intersection. PHOTO: QLDCThis last leg of the S2P pathway will run alongside the new connector road, an extension of Ferguson Drive, which will also provide lighting for the pathway.The long-awaited road connecting to Ballantyne Road will provide crucial access to Three Parks shopping centre, taking pressure off the already busy Sir Tim Wallis Drive, Allan said.“It will be the most direct route from town to Three Parks as the crow flies,” he said.A substantial portion of Ferguson Drive, which begins at the Three Parks New World, has already been completed but not yet opened to the public.“There’s about 500 metres left to do,” Allan said, to bring Ferguson Drive out to the intersection with Ballantyne and Golf Course roads.The intersection’s roundabout will be upgraded at the same time, he said.Allan said funding for an irregular, peanut shaped ‘roundabout’ has already been identified in the Queenstown Lakes District Council’s budget for 2026-27 and council staff “are pushing the go button on that intersection”.Upgrading the intersection will be “hugely disruptive” but when it’s finished in 2027 “it will be brilliant”, he said.In addition to the S2P pathway, Allan said he’d also be creating another public path bordering the golf course through to the Three Parks shopping centre.

The government’s proposal to abolish regional councillors and replace them with boards made up of mayors from the region’s district councils has been met with caution by two local mayors.Local government and Resource Management Act reform minister Chris Bishop said the proposed reforms would deliver “the most significant changes to local government since 1989”.He said the current system “is tangled in duplication, disagreements, and decisions that defy common sense”.The proposals include abolishing regional councils, and replacing elected regional councillors with new combined territories boards (CTBs) made up of mayors from the region’s city and - in the case of Central Lakes - district councils. The government also proposes locally-led regional reorganisations, whereby CTBs would lead plans for councils to work together across a region, for example via shared services, council-owned companies, reallocating functions, or merging territorial authorities to form new unitary councils.Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) mayor John Glover told the Wānaka App the proposals have “been portrayed as a removal of regional councils across the country in the name of reducing bureaucracy and costs but in reality [they are] also a drive to merge smaller district councils”.“And while I understand the very pressing desire to make things simpler and cheaper and respect governments right to do that, I struggle with the language used around this announcement by some politicians that could potentially incite anger, distrust and malevolent actions towards those who work in public service roles in our districts.”John acknowledged the work Otago Regional Council (ORC) has done to deliver public transport to the Whakatipu basin, “the difficult job of ensuring our water resources are used sustainably”, and the provision of science advice and action on a wide range of topics such as natural hazards and pest control. “Some of their engagement work supporting community-led catchment management plans has been outstanding,” he said.“If the government reforms come into effect, as an elected mayor, I see my role as ensuring these important workstreams do not simply disappear in the name of savings or simplification. “They are key to our ability to grow, as far as possible, without that growth being at the expense of our environment.”Central Otago District Council mayor Tamah Alley told the Central App this week the government’s proposals signal a pathway toward unitary councils, with Crown commissioners as the alternative to mayors governing locally.“Personally, I’d rather see Otago people making Otago decisions — with public accountability and a real understanding of our unique landscapes and communities,” she said.Tamah said “a big missing piece in the puzzle” is what the government’s RMA reform will look like. “This will fundamentally shape how councils operate and how we deliver services,” she said.Chris Bishop foreshadowed the RMA reforms last week by saying they “will strip out duplication in the system, standardise processes, and drive down complexity and compliance costs”.“Under the new planning system there will be fewer plans, fewer consent categories, and fewer consents overall. Regional councils will have a significantly reduced role as part of this new planning system,” he said.Consultation on the regional council proposals is open until Friday February 20, 2026 through the Department of Internal Affairs website. A final proposal will be confirmed by March so legislation can be drafted.PHOTOS: Wānaka App/Supplied

The Upper Clutha Presbyterian Church plans to build a new multi-purpose facility in the heart of the growing Lake Hāwea subdivision, Longview.Designed as a hub for local activities and events, the facility will provide space for a wide range of community groups and services, benefiting more than 400 people each week, the Central Lakes Trust (CLT) announced this week.CLT has approved a grant of $500,000 towards the construction of the facility.“We’re excited about what this new space will mean for our community,” Hāwea minister Aaron Johnstone said.“It’s designed to be modern and flexible, a place where people can come together, connect, and grow.”Just a year ago, Aaron told the Wānaka App the Hāwea congregation had “outgrown” its historic Hāwea Flat church, St Ninians.“We’re selling St Ninian’s as a part of our process to build a new church within the Longview subdivision [at Lake Hāwea],” he said.“Although we’ve outgrown the space, we remain committed to honouring the vision of our founders and continuing to serve the community.”Read more: St Ninian’s Church for saleLake Hāwea is also served by the community-owned Lake Hāwea Community Centre. The centre is the hub for activities - from meetings, sports, and cultural activities - and serves as a community emergency hub during times of need. IMAGE: Supplied

Local police continue to receive a number of reports of shoplifting incidents, many of which have been captured on CCTV. These images have provided strong lines of inquiry, allowing police to identify offenders, Wānaka Police area response manager Sergeant Darren Cranfield said.This week, one youth—linked to at least 15 separate incidents—has been identified and will be referred to Police Youth Aid for further action.Darren said police also continue to see youths riding unregistered and unapproved electric motorbikes on public roads. “These vehicles are not legal for road use. Over the past week, police apprehended two youths—one had their bike impounded and will be referred to Youth Aid, while the other was forbidden to drive and issued with an infringement notice.”Over the past two weeks, there have been several motor vehicle accidents in the area, one involving a 76-year-old female motorcyclist who was fortunate to escape with minor injuries, Darren said.Another incident involved a commercial lawn mower that rolled, trapping the operator beneath it. “The situation was particularly concerning due to leaking fuel, but thanks to the quick actions of local volunteers and the Fire Brigade, the incident was safely resolved with only minor injuries reported,” he said.Police also responded to an incident involving a dog left in a hot vehicle for several hours. “As temperatures rise, please remember never to leave pets or children unattended in vehicles.”Drink driving continues to be an ongoing issue in the area despite continued education and enforcement efforts, Darren said.“With the Christmas season approaching, we encourage everyone to enjoy celebrations responsibly,” he said.“Please plan ahead and arrange a safe way to get home. Employers hosting work functions are reminded that they may have a duty of care to ensure their staff get home safely after such events.”Darren said members of the public should contact police for assistance with any matters involving harassment or trespassing, rather than attempting to deal with such situations personally.He also reminded people planning to enter alpine or backcountry areas: “Ensure you are well prepared with the correct equipment, clothing, sufficient food, and most importantly, the necessary experience for the conditions.”PHOTO: Wānaka App

Applications for scholarships to attend Wānaka’s popular annual art school next year close this week (Friday December 5), and locals - young and older - are being encouraged to submit their applications.The Autumn Art School offers “a creative week” in April for people to step away from their everyday lives and focus on learning or fine-tuning a skill or interest, with help from experienced tutors. The range of classes usually includes painting, drawing, writing, book making, and more, from skilled tutors from around the country and further afield.“We’ve got a really lovely collection of tutors, some new, some returning,” art school co-director Susan Manson told the Wānaka App.“There’s something for most people and it should be a nice friendly place to be.” She said there are two scholarships available for Te Kura o Tititea Mount Aspiring College (MAC) students - for years 12 and 13. The scholarships cover the fees for a week of classes.“In past years kids have really enjoyed it and really got a lot out of it,” Susan said.A recent junior scholarship recipient told the Wānaka App she got a lot out of attending a painting class for the week, where she learnt about colour theory, the process of painting, and other technical learning.“It was just a really fun experience and I am excited to do more. I would definitely recommend it,” she said.Susan said there are also scholarships available for adult residents of the Upper Clutha (for at least 12 months), with up to $1,500 available to cover transport, day care, and so on. The amount would depend on the number of applicants. “Last year we gave three scholarships worth $3,000,” she said.There is also financial assistance - up to $500 - available for Upper Clutha residents (of 12 months or more) to provide “a little help to attend”. Find more information on the classes here, and to apply contact Susan ([email protected], or 0274 249 441). The art school will take place on April 13-17, 2026. It is non-profit event run by the Upper Clutha Community Arts Council and the scholarships are provided by surplus funds.PHOTO: Wānaka App

A local group is planning ahead for the influx of young people into Wānaka this coming summer with a campaign to keep teenagers safe.Path Wānaka, a community group set up to deal with the range of challenges young people face, has worked with local police, Te Kura o Tititea Mount Aspiring College, and others to encourage everyone to spread ‘safe summer’ messages.Wānaka’s summer population is expected to surge past 20,000 people again this year.“We know no one wants a repeat of the issues we’ve seen in past years,” a police spokesperson said.“We’re talking alcohol-fuelled gatherings, property damage, and teens in unsafe situations.” On January 1, 2025 a large disorderly event - about 300 young people - took place at the Dinosaur Park. At least three serious assaults were reported, involving young people being knocked unconscious, along with numerous other more minor assaults.Read more: Multiple assaults at Dinosaur ParkPolice said at the time that many of those involved were from out of town, with families in Wānaka on holiday.Path said the ‘Safe Summer’ campaign, which was launched on Monday (December 1), is about “getting ahead” of such behaviour by supporting parents of teens travelling to Wānaka by promoting safety around alcohol and drug use, respect for this community, and safe decision-making.“These aren’t rules or warnings — they’re simple, helpful prompts that support safe, enjoyable experiences for everyone involved,” Path said.The group has been in touch with South Island secondary schools to request they share the resources with families of year 11 to year 13 students.Path hopes the campaign will inform parents and enable them to have conversations with their teens; give a clear, respectful message to teens that Wānaka “isn’t a free-for-all”; and leave the community feeling supported.The campaign also provides resources such as fridge magnets and flyers for local holiday owners and accommodation providers to leave for guests - with links to resources and messaging around safety, consent, boundaries and town expectations. These resources can be picked up free from the Wānaka Community Hub, or requested from Path ([email protected]).“We’d love for accommodation owners to make flyers and fridge magnets highly visible in accommodation for all who stay, to see,” Path said.There will also be a social media campaign and posters put up around Wānaka spreading the messages.Read more: Here’s to making it a great summer ahead

A new endowment fund is on its way to making a lasting difference at Te Kura o Tittea Mount Aspiring College (MAC), thanks to strong early support from local donors.The MAC Foundation Aspiring Endowment Fund was launched in 2024 and received a surge of new support after being publicly promoted for the first time last month. Recent contributions have boosted the fund to $350,000, bringing it closer to its $1M goal, the point at which annual distributions to the school will begin.MAC Foundation chair Matt Williams said the recent wave of support reflects the community’s belief in the fund’s long-term impact.“We’re incredibly grateful to those who have stepped forward so early in the life of the fund,” Matt said. “Their generosity is helping us build a legacy that will benefit students for many years to come.”Among the first major donors are Ann-Louise Stokes of Wools of Wānaka, who has contributed $100,000, and Adam and Anna Edgar, who have committed to an annual donation of $10,000.Ann-Louise, who has had a daughter attend MAC, read an article about the new fund and wanted to make a donation which she believes is an investment in the town’s future.“We all know someone who has been through MAC, whether it’s a child, grandchild, neighbour or teacher – it is the beating heart of the town,” she said.Adam Edgar, whose daughter is currently in Year 7 at the college and has another daughter who will attend in the future, said when MAC thrives, the whole community benefits.“Longer term, if we can grow the fund to a more significant size, it will give the school the ability to do the extra things that fall outside normal funding channels – things that can make a real difference for students,” he said.MAC principal Nicola Jacobsen said the fund is already starting to make an impact for the school community.“For the past two years, MAC Foundation has funded the appointment of an onsite educational psychologist at the school,” she said.Families relying on the Ministry of Education’s regional services were facing wait times of six weeks to four months but with this role onsite, there is daily access to support for students, families and teachers and an opportunity to improve school life for the student.Over the years, the Foundation has funded a wide range of initiatives for the school, including library and IT resources, and specialist equipment for the performance and music classrooms, such as a recording studio and lighting rigs.“The Te Ūkaipō Scholarship funded by MAC Foundation enables students to visit their marae, an experience that is often difficult because of the geographical challenges of living in Wānaka. For many, this marks the beginning of reconnecting with their culture and building a stronger sense of identity,” Nicola said.The MAC Foundation also owns the MAC Hostel buildings and the land on which they sit. Income generated from the hostel represents the largest annual donation received by the college, providing significant financial support for operational grants.Matt said the foundation is now focused on growing the endowment fund to $1M, which will allow it to begin making annual distributions to the school.“Better outcomes for students mean a stronger, healthier community. That’s what drives us,” he said. “As the Endowment Fund grows, we’re in a position to work with the college to meet emerging needs. Some of the areas we’re looking at include specialist resources such as a nurse practitioner, literacy and numeracy support teachers, and a dedicated budget for IT and AI tools.”He said the foundation is now actively seeking trustees and volunteers with fundraising experience to help grow the fund and support its long-term vision. Business partnerships are also underway, with further announcements expected soon.“Every donation, large or small, helps us build a sustainable future for our school,” he said. “We invite others to be part of this journey.”PHOTO: Supplied

The Wānaka Golf Club (WGC) says it was “stacked against us from the start” after councillors last week approved an easement allowing a private driveway to cut across part of its course.The nearly 56-hectare course, a recreation reserve designated for golf, will now host a legal right of way and a water drainage easement for the owners of 91, 93 and 99 Youghal Street.A hearing was held in August to consider the property owners’ request to formalise the driveway which crosses multiple private properties, as well as the WGC, which the club opposed unsuccessfully.The club said it would increase the risk of ball strike, impede on plans to add a par 5 to the club’s front nine holes, and risked setting a precedent.WGC general manager Kim Badger said she believed that “[Queenstown Lakes District Council] took the easy way out and used the golf course, Crown-owned recreation reserve land, to fix an issue between themselves and the applicants”.Deputy mayor Quentin Smith, who sat on the hearing panel for the easement alongside fellow councillors Gavin Bartlett and Niki Gladding, said the issue was “super complex”.“There were basically a series of mistakes made by all parties over a long period of time and we are picking up the pieces and trying to make the best of it with minimal impact on the reserve and the public,” he said.“There’s a bunch of other complex issues that remain around civil matters and stormwater and other things that are yet to play out.”Niki Gladding agreed that it was “a tricky situation and it needed resolution”. However, she chose to vote against granting the easement because of “concerns for the rights of the golf course into the future if land use changes”.Niki said she wanted to grant the easement “on the basis of what we had in front of us so that if the land use did intensify it would then come back to the council for another decision, and then we could determine which conditions need to be put in place to mitigate any impacts on the course”.A council report on the proposed easement said QLDC “normally…discourages easements across its reserves as it has a responsibility to protect reserves for current and future public use”. However, in this situation “the existing easement is inadequate and there are no practical alternative options to formalise the easement or gain compliance”. The easement “does not impact the golf club’s use of the land to any greater degree than the existing easement”, the report said.Kim said QLDC failed to consider the implications for the club, and it did not adopt any of its proposed mitigation measures like fencing for ball strike, signage, or limiting further development.“The decision has served only to improve the value of three properties, while creating a health and safety and liability risk for users of the recreation reserve,” she said.The property owners will be responsible for relocating and formalising the driveway/right of way, including all of the works, and the cost of the works, QLDC said.PHOTO: Wānaka App

The future of Otago’s deep alpine lakes took centre stage last week as more than 25 experts, mana whenua, policy makers, and community members gathered for the two-day Alpine Lakes Forum in Wānaka.Hosted by WAI Wānaka Kāi Tahu, University of Otago and Otago Regional Council, the forum aimed to bridge the gap between scientific research and community action - and organisers say the response exceeded expectations."We were privileged to host such a high calibre of speakers across the two days,” WAI Wānaka CEO Cat Dillon said.Attendees heard from a wide range of speakers on themes of freshwater management, ecological monitoring, valuing nature and freshwater ecosystems, and community action.“A clear theme emerged: collaboration is essential, everyone has a role to play; and we must act now - before the situation becomes more critical.”The Wānaka App attended Thursday’s (November 27) University of Otago research showcase, where seven experts discussed research on a range of topics.They included Wānaka freshwater scientist Chris Arbuckle, who outlined his research into the Matukituki River.He said water quality in the river’s headwaters remains “extremely good”, but land-use impacts on smaller waterways and tributaries further downstream have affected its overall health.The same was true at Glendhu Bay, where smaller inflows influence lake health at the main bay.WAI Wānaka CEO Cat Dillon said she was excited to turn the forum’s conversations “ into concrete actions and next steps”. PHOTO: Nat SymondsChris has worked extensively alongside farmers to “take the science to them” to help influence positive change.The showcase also featured Dr Roe Stuart, who is commencing a four-year research project to better understand the ecosystems of the South Island’s deepest lakes - including Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea - about which much is still unknown.“When we get down to that really deep habitat we don’t know what’s down there and what is supporting it,” Roe said.In the session attendees also heard from associate professor Marc Schallenberg, who talked about the discovery of lake snow in Lake Wānaka, and Alice Gilbert, who highlighted the emerging threat of microplastics, among others.The Alpine Lakes Forum, which built on the success of 2023’s Knowledge into Action for Otago’s Alpine Deep-Water Lakes Summit, took place at Edgewater Resort.Cat said WAI Wānaka was thrilled with the “incredible feedback” following the forum.“We're excited to turn these conversations into concrete actions and next steps."