Central’s iconic landscape will take a starring role in Netflix’s limited series ‘East of Eden’ as filming moves from Waitaki to Otago and Central.British actress Florence Pugh (29) cast in the series, is rumoured to be arriving in Central today (Saturday January 18).Local accommodation providers have beds booked up for film crew for the next few weeks but are unable to talk further due to non disclosure agreements.Film Otago Southland manager Kahli Scott said she was unable to share details of specific productions.“We can say that the Otago region is definitely on the radar in the international production community. International productions are attracted to our region thanks to our cinematic filming locations, the great reputation of our local crew and vendors, our film-friendlycommunities, and New Zealand’s generous screen rebate scheme.”Central Otago had a strong reputation for hosting international screen productions, such as Jane Campion’s The Power of the Dog, Kahli said.“The district is a fantastic filming destination thanks to its rugged landscapes and preserved heritage towns, as well as the famous Central Otago hospitality that makes visitors feel welcome and looked after.”Last week Oamaru’s historic precinct was transformed into Salinas Valley, California - the setting of the 1952 novel East of Eden by John Steinbeck.RNZ reported filming started on Monday but that crew had been in the area for months preparing. The classic Steinbeck novel is set between the beginning of the 20th century and the end of WWI and the plot follows two families; The Hamiltons and The Trasks and their interwoven stories. In 1955 it was adapted for film by director Elia Kazan and starred James Dean, Julie Harris, Richard Davalos, Raymond Massey, Jo Van Fleet, and Burl Ives. The Netflix series is being produced by Elia’s granddaughter, Zoe Kazan (also an actress and screenwriter) and Hollywood A-lister Florence Pugh, along with acting as Cathy Ames, is in an executive producer role on the seven part series. English actress Florence is known for her roles in Oppenheimer, Little Women, Marvel’s Black Widow and as the voice of Goldilocks in Puss in Boots: The Last Wish. Kahli said it was estimated that screen activity contributed approximately $59M to the Otago economy last year.“When international screen productions film here, they provide a significant economic injection into the regional economy in several ways. “Firstly, there’s the direct impact of local jobs and business created for crew, extras, and vendors. Secondly, there’s the money that productions spend on local goods and services, such as accommodation, transport, and construction materials for sets.“Visiting cast and crew may also spend money on extracurricular activities while enjoying time in the region, such as dining and recreation.” She said there were the future flow-on effects that exposure for the region through screen production could have for tourism and international business opportunities.Along with Otago, filming is taking place in Auckland next month. The series is set to be released on Netflix in early 2026.

Cromwell’s Kiwi Water Park staff will feature in an international advertising campaign for Jetstar in a few weeks, using a giant inflatable airline logo in the middle of Lake Dunstan.Queenstown-based Reelnz was running the campaign, and location manager Cam Woods said Cromwell was the perfect spot because of the existing water park on the lake.Although the airline company was flying in its own inflatables to use for filming, they will be using water park staff for their expertise as well as health and safety.Filming would take place between January 30 and February 5, and Reelnz had to get permission from government agencies including the harbourmaster (under the Navigation Safety Bylaw) to restrict boaties from using the area that week.Cam said New Zealanders were generally pretty good when it came to filming in locations, and respected people’s space.  The film industry was “so hot right now”, with many new projects coming up around Central Otago, he said.Film crews spent about $200,000 a week on accommodation, food and rental cars while they were in a town, and this all benefited the local economy hugely, he said.Kiwi Water Park on Lake Dunstan. Kiwi Water Park owner Emily Rutherford said she was stoked that Reelnz and Jetstar chose Lake Dunstan to film their commercial.“It will be great for Central Otago to be part of a big advertising campaign, and the backdrop of mountains will be perfect,” she said.The first week of February was good for filming because it was the quietest week of the year, with school kids all back at school before the next long weekend (Waitangi Day).“We may even close for a few days, because they are going to be using our lifeguards.”Emily said she’d had a great season and January 2 was their busiest day on record (100 people), with every session booked out.PHOTOS: Supplied

The Wānaka real estate market has witnessed significant change and development over the past year. As we step into the new year, it’s crucial to understand the trends and statistics that have shaped the market landscape. One of the notable points from December’s real estate sales data was the total of 54 sales, with 37 of these being residential properties. The median house price reached $1.35M in December, marking an 11 percent increase from December 2023. These figures reflect the growing attractiveness of Wānaka as a desirable location for homebuyers and investors alike.Through the hustle and bustle of the festive season, the local real estate market has shown resilience and strength. December’s 54 sales are significant, especially considering that December is traditionally a quieter month. This influx in activity signals a positive shift in the market, hinting at an upward trend for 2025. The total volume of sales in December increased by 20 percent compared to the same time last year, suggesting that buyers are feeling more confident in their purchasing decisions. With a good amount of stock available, we anticipate continued momentum during the summer.Examining the overall data from 2024, it’s essential to highlight that the year ended on a strong note. The year saw a total of 536 residential sales, a 17 percent increase in volume versus 2023. This rejuvenation of activity can be attributed to a combination of factors, including a reduction in interest rates that has restored confidence among buyers. The average price across all residential sales for the year climbed to $1.6M, buoyed by an uptick in the upper-end market segment. The number of sales exceeding $5M doubled compared to 2023, demonstrating an increasing investment in luxury properties.As we look forward, our analysis suggests that this growth isn't merely a passing trend but rather the beginning of a sustained recovery. Real estate operates within a cyclical framework, often characterized by seven to eight-year cycles. With the statistically robust performance in late 2024, we are optimistic about the trajectory for this year. The effective combination of reduced interest rates and increased market confidence means that now may be a wise time for buyers to act.Finally, as the New Year begins, it’s essential for those interested in Wānaka real estate to remain informed and aware. Every market is unique, and understanding the specific dynamics at play in Wānaka will empower buyers to make informed decisions. Whether you're contemplating a purchase or pondering a sale, now is the perfect time to engage with the team at Ray White Wanaka, who can offer comprehensive insights and guidance tailored to your needs.Ray White Wānaka is situated at Sir Tim Wallis Drive Wānaka. Find out more here.

Community Link’s Christmas appeal has raised just under $35,000 in cash and helped feed approximately 450 people over Christmas.The “terrific” outcome far surpassed the organisation’s expectations, Community Link general manager Kate Murray said.“We want to thank the community for their support because it was a collective effort,” she said.“From the locals giving food and donating money, to businesses becoming engaged with running their own appeals and donating the proceeds to Community Link - plus the New World partnership - it made a huge difference.”She said Community Link was able to help over 130 families with Christmas food “top-ups”, meaning around 450 locals enjoyed a “much better Christmas”.There was also a “huge response” to appeals for donations on gifts, which were passed on to local families ahead of Christmas Day."We were also supported by Constructive Consulting who donated hams and Michael Side who generously provided desserts for families who received the food parcels."Toys were also donated.The way the Christmas appeal results are tallied have changed, making it difficult to compare to previous years.However, Kate said, it “feels like a significantly bigger amount”.She said the Christmas appeal was one of Community Link’s biggest appeals of the year.“To get this level of engagement from the community is just awesome,” she said.Surplus money raised, after Christmas food donations, will go towards programmes and initiatives at Community Link in 2025.PHOTOS: Wānaka App

Two rural fires in Otago and Southland yesterday have prompted Otago Regional Council (ORC) to remind rural and peri-urban communities to prepare carefully for any intended burnoffs.ORC compliance manager Carlo Bell said many parts of inland Otago are tinder dry at present and pose a heightened fire risk.“Because Otago is very dry in many places, the ORC is urging people to check weather forecasts and take great care around any permitted or lawful property burn-offs they are intending,” he said.People need to check the fire season status for their part of Otago and have any permits from Fire and Emergency NZ (FENZ) as well as meeting ORC's rules.The Queenstown Lakes zone (which the Upper Clutha is part of) is under a restricted fire zone so permits are required for any burn.Carlo said the MetService forecast for Central Otago for the next week suggests dry conditions would likely persist.“This should remind people to be extra careful around all outdoor fires, be it burnoffs or smaller outdoor fires, and when using machinery in dry areas, such as mowers or farm machinery,” he said.Carlo said there were six complaints to ORC’s Pollution Hotline yesterday from the Queenstown area relating to a fire in Kingston, which resulted in a large smoke haze around Queenstown. There was a second vegetation fire across about two hectares at Mount Pisa between Wānaka and Cromwell, also attended by FENZ. “We’re urging people to go through the following list as they formulate plans,” Carlo said.If burning permitted material is the only option, people should reduce smoke and burn safely and considerately: Burn as far from your property boundary as possibleCheck the wind is predicted to be away from built-up areas for the duration of the firePostpone the lighting of the fire if there's already smoke from other fires in the airMake smaller firesUse dry fuel and stack it looselyDon't let the fire smoulderAvoid burning in the early morning or late afternoon/evening (breezier daytime conditions help to disperse the smoke)Avoid burning when there is an inversion layerBe prepared to put the fire out if conditions change or you discover that you are causing a nuisanceEnsure burning on the property is permitted under the Air PlanCheck the fire season status and have FENZ permission as needed.Outdoor fires – such as a brazier, a controlled rural burn-off, or a hangi – must comply with Otago Air Plan rules. Having a permit from FENZ does not necessarily mean the burning is permitted under Otago Air Plan rules, Carlo said.Before you light a fire, check your plan at checkitsalright.nz and get a permit if you need one. You must also follow the Otago Air Plan rules for what you can burn and where the fire is.If people observe pollution to water, air, or land in Otago, call the ORC’s Pollution Hotline (which is staffed 24/7) on 0800 800 033 to report it.PHOTO: Supplied

Wānaka-based Le Velo Studio has been named a finalist for the prestigious Green Awards in Berlin for “the world’s lightest e-bike”.Le Velo Studio co-founder Alex Guichard said the bike had taken four years of research and development and he was thrilled the project had been recognised by the Green Awards. “This is the first time a New Zealand company has reached the final level of this competition,” he said.“This acknowledgement supports our belief that we have created something that will not only enhance the cycling experience for a range of users but also benefits the planet.” The bike (which is crafted from carbon fibre) has been designed, engineered and assembled in Wānaka. Not just light on weight (weighing 12.3 kg, compared to 23-25kg for most e-bikes on the market), it’s also light on the planet, Alex said.“Weight is the first enemy for any e-bike; however, our e-bike is easy to carry upstairs, put on a car rack and safe to ride compared to heavy e-bikes.“There is no more range anxiety, when the battery is flat, the user can still finish his ride as the bike becomes a standard lightweight push bike.” Alex said the design used “circular design principles and … non-proprietary components”, taking the bike’s end of life into consideration.“One of the main innovations of Le Velo Studio is the use of a rear e-wheel that includes the battery and the motor in the hub. A majority of e-bikes, with the battery or motor integrated into the frame, will end up in the landfill,” he said“With Le Velo Studio, at the end of life of electronics, the users will be given the choice to repair, replace the e-wheel or just swap the e-wheel for a standard push wheel and use their bike for decades.”Green Product Awards director Nils Bader said the Le Velo Studio e-bike, called ‘The Bicycle of Your Life’ in the mobility category, was “a good example of the level of creativity and passion with which our finalists are contributing to a more sustainable future”. Alex said “it would be awesome to get a good push from kiwis with votes”. The online public vote will take place until January 30.PHOTO: Supplied 

A 31-year-old man is before the courts following an investigation into the burglary of a Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter at Taieri Airfield last weekend.In the early hours of Sunday January 12, a bag containing critical medical equipment and supplies was stolen from the rescue helicopter.Enquiries led Police to execute a search warrant at a Dunedin address yesterday (Wednesday January 15), where the 31-year-old was arrested at the scene.The man is alleged to have also been involved in two other burglaries in the Dunedin area in the early hours of the morning Sunday January 12.He is due to appear in Dunedin District Court today (January 16) on three charges of burglary and two charges of unlawfully taking a motor vehicle.On Tuesday (January 14) the head of Helicopters Otago, Graeme Gale, announced a $10,000 reward for information leading to the capture of the thief. "I want two things - I want my bag returned with the equipment in it and I also want the name of this clown that actually did it," Graeme said when announcing the reward.It is not known at this stage if the reward has been paid.Police continue to make enquiries into the incidents and further charges are likely.PHOTO: Wānaka App

Wānaka retailers have been positive about summer trading so far this season, with the town full of visitors, and the feeling of “a slow and steady turnaround” - in the words of one long-term retailer.Wānaka Business Chamber general manager Glenn Peat told the Wānaka App that many local businesses have reported strong trading this summer, particularly those in hospitality, outdoor activities, and retail.“It was fantastic to see Wānaka so vibrant over the Christmas and New Year period, with a noticeable influx of visitors,” Glenn said. “The majority of visitors were domestic travellers, with many staying in campgrounds, Airbnbs, or visiting friends and family, which added a real buzz to the town.”Glenn said while several businesses did “very well, others found trading steady but more tempered, with the cost of living and broader economic pressures affecting discretionary spending”. “Nonetheless, the overall feedback has been positive, and it was encouraging to see such strong support for local businesses,” he said.Paper Plus manager Chris Lumsden said the town had been “pumping” and restaurants “chocka”. Chris said trading was “not like the old days post-Covid when Auckland got released and came down here and went crazy, and everyone thought they’d died and gone to heaven in retail”.But, he said: “We’re happy - ticking over fine. We’re meeting budgets and targets and that’s the key.”“It seems that everybody is getting a bite of the cherry,” he added.Kai Whakapai Eatery and Craft Beer Bar owner Nick Aubrey said the Christmas and New Year peak had been “very busy” as usual.“We continue to see lots of people come through,” he said, adding that volumes have eased slightly in mid January and “it was great to see local faces back in town”.“Things have slowed down to more sustainable and normal summer volumes,” he said.More visitors are expected to flow into town for long weekends (such as Waitangi Weekend and Chinese New Year) and up-coming events such as the A&P Show and Motutapu Bike Race, Nick said.“I think things will be on par for previous years. We’re very happy,” he said. “The new venue has been an absolute game changer for us to be able to deliver peak volumes and keep wait times [minimal]. Our new dining area has been well utilised.”While there continued to be some staffing challenges, Nick said, “Overall as a town there’s some really positive energy coming out of hospitality”. Long-term Wānaka retailer Steve Hart, who owns MT Outdoors stores in central Wānaka (Dunmore Street) and Three Parks, said his business was seeing more visitors make it out to Three Parks.“We’re doing probably half our business in Three Parks, which is mainly locals, but we are seeing more and more tourists coming here,” he said.Three Parks is beginning to attract more visitors, a local retailer says. The Little Brewer cafe in the MT Outdoors Three Parks store is attracting “a constant flow” of customers, Steve said, from tradies and more administration people working nearby.The positive feeling in Three Parks is more obvious than in central Wānaka, he believed.“Tourists are holding on to their money. You only have to go onto Wānaka to see the number of people but [it’s] not really translating into the number of items sold,” he said, adding that trading is “definitely patchy” across different locations and services.Nonetheless, Steve said he believed the town was at “the tail end of the economic downtown - based on 40 years of seeing it go up and down”.“It has been more difficult, the whole last year.. But it has had the feel, since early December, of a slow and steady turnaround.”Glenn said the Wānaka Business Chamber was optimistic about 2025.“Wānaka continues to be a destination of choice for both domestic and international visitors, and with ongoing community support and innovation from our local businesses, we’re hopeful for a productive year ahead.”PHOTOS: Wānaka App

The Upper Clutha History Society will host a launch event next week for its new creative initiative, Wānaka History.Wānaka History celebrates “the unique stories, people, and landmarks that have shaped the Upper Clutha district”, the Upper Clutha History Society said.The new Wānaka History website is a repository of maps, images, stories, biographies, audio, video, animation and other digital resources. Plaques on historical sites will also link locals and tourists to the rich heritage of the area, a statement from the Upper Clutha History Society said.Each physical plaque will link, via QR code, to in-depth articles and resources on the Wānaka History website.They will “provide a glimpse into the past, highlighting significant sites and events in the history of the region”. The Wānaka History launch event will take place next Wednesday (January 22) at 10am at the Wānaka Library.Wānaka’s lakefront from Pembroke Park before development.“The event will promote and highlight Wānaka History and include speeches and light refreshments,” the Upper Clutha History Society said.All are welcome to attend.Attendees should RSVP before next Tuesday (January 21) by emailing [email protected]. Wānaka History is an initiative of the volunteers of the Upper Clutha History Society and it is funded by Central Lakes Trust, Otago Community Trust, and the Queenstown Lakes District Council Community Fund.Visit the Wānaka History website here.PHOTOS: Supplied

A new director has been appointed for Otago Polytechnic’s central campus, which is split across locations in Cromwell in Wānaka.Drawing on the local environment, the central campus offers programmes ranging from high country farming, horticulture, and electrical trades through to outdoor education, avalanche safety and snowsports.John Christie, who will begin in his role on January 20, said he was excited to get started."I've really got an interest in making sure our young people have got good opportunities for training,” John said. “And not just young people, but anybody really that has got an interest in learning."He is joining Otago Polytechnic after 10 years as manager of Enterprise Dunedin (the economic development team at Dunedin City Council), which followed 20 years as chief executive of the Otago Chamber of Commerce.The role means a move from Dunedin to Cromwell for John."The location's fantastic,” John said. “Cromwell and Wānaka are great campuses, and there's real opportunity there to get close to the community. “Especially in those areas where you can see the industry growth, like horticulture and agriculture areas.""There's also your traditional trades like electrical, mechanical, and building which are much needed when you're seeing the growth in housing in this part of the country."Members of the Otago Polytechnic senior leadership team will join John later this month at a community event which is aimed at helping future-proof the central campus."This is Central Otago's campus. I think it can be anything they want it to be,” John said. "I think the community have got a lot of the keys to what the success will look like for the two campuses, and we'll be looking for their support.""So the first bit of this role will be listening to the local community and finding out where those needs are. And I'm confident if we're given the opportunity to deliver that, it'll be a very exciting place for people to study."PHOTO: Supplied

Locals can learn about all things emergency preparedness at the upcoming ‘GET READY’ event taking place on February 1 and 2 at Mitre 10 MEGA Wānaka.Attendees will be able to meet local emergency service personnel, including members from local fire brigades, police force and coastguard, and learn about how to be better prepared for an emergency.The organisations will provide an inside look at the equipment used in emergency situations and the vital roles they play in maintaining safety and security in Wānaka. There will also be plenty of practical information on being emergency-ready at home.Personnel from Emergency Management Otago (EMO) will be on hand to provide guidance on how to prepare for emergencies, as well as the information and gear needed to create emergency ‘grab and go’ kits. Wānaka Community Response Group (WCRG), a local volunteer group helping build more emergency resilience, will also be sharing information at GET READY.“We believe that preparedness is key to ensuring the safety of our community,” WCRG chair Mick Hollyer said. Emergency risks in this district include AF8 (an earthquake of magnitude 8 or higher on the Alpine Fault). PHOTO: Supplied“This event is about empowering our residents with the knowledge and resources they need to be ready for any situation.”WCRG said the emergency risks in the local area include AF8 (an earthquake of magnitude 8 or higher on the Alpine Fault), fires, floods, tsunamis, snowstorms, and landslips.“We know the geographical challenges our region faces, so the better prepared we are now, the less reliant we will be on our emergency services and food demands,” Mick said.Everyone in the community is invited to attend GET READY.It will take place at Mitre 10 MEGA Wānaka on February 1 and 2 (Saturday and Sunday) between 10am and 1pm.The Rotary Club of Wānaka will also be on-site with a sausage sizzle.Read more: Group launches emergency awareness month

Police have dealt with an increase in local reports of family violence over the holiday period, Wānaka Police Senior Sergeant Fiona (Fi) Roberts said.Incidents included calls to the Albert Town Campground for two separate family harm incidents on the same day (Thursday January 9).Wānaka Police have also responded to reports of a man with a knife exhibiting threatening behaviour, as well as drink driving and other driving complaints, which continue to “flow in”, over the past week.Fi said enquiries were ongoing in relation to the man allegedly wielding a knife.Police had received several reports about the incident at a large gathering on Stone Street in the early hours of Sunday January 12 and police attended and cleared the property, Fi said.Meanwhile, a 38-year-old was breath tested and recorded an excess breath alcohol reading of 574 on Thursday January 9.Fi said a 45-year-old male was stopped in Cardrona Valley and “his driving was that bad that he was arrested and charged with dangerous driving”.“The team consistently respond to driving complaints and appreciate all the calls that we receive,” Fi said.Several members of the public have reported suspicious packages that have been delivered to their address around Northlake through the post.“The postal/courier system is a common way for contraband to be distributed,” Fi said.“If you receive mail/courier items in circumstances which are ‘suspicious’ please do not hesitate to contact us”.Fi shared a reminder about firearms safety after police spoke to a license holder “after a complaint was made about a ricochet from the projectile fired on a rural property”.“A reminder to all firearms licence holders about safe direction and proximity following an unintended ricochet. Always identify your target and the area behind the target; projectiles can and do ricochet. Avoid making common mistakes when handling firearms.”Noise complaints are synonymous with this time of year and Fi asked residents to be considerate of neighbours.Call 111 when you need an emergency response from police, fire or ambulance.Call 105 to report things that don’t need urgent police assistance.Call *555 to report road incidents that are urgent but not life-threatening.To make an anonymous crime report contact Crime Stoppers.PHOTO: Wānaka App

World Wetlands Day will be celebrated locally with a family-friendly event at urban wetland Bullock Creek Hatchery Springs on Sunday February 2.The two-hectare wetland, the site of a former Otago Fish & Game hatchery, is an ongoing restoration project with Friends of Bullock Creek and the Department of Corrections.Fish & Game Central Otago operations manager Jamie Ward said the wetland was a natural gem in the community and its pristine spring-fed creek provided important spawning habitat for fish.“As our towns and cities grow and expand, it is increasingly important to safeguard pockets of nature like Bullock Creek,” Jamie said.At the upcoming event, visitors will have the chance to see how Fish & Game manages and monitors species and habitat, and can practice casting in a fun fishing game. Visitors can also learn about the invertebrates that live in Bullock Creek, and the native plants being restored to the wetlands. There will be insights into the world of bees, and how trapping programmes protect native birds and lizards.Jamie said the QEII-covenanted wetland was thriving thanks to the unwavering dedication and fundraising by Friends of Bullock Creek volunteers, and supported by licence fees from anglers and hunters.Visitors will be able to chat with representatives from the QEII National Trust and Otago Catchment Community.Friends of Bullock Creek will also highlight their ongoing restoration work planting natives and removing weeds through almost 8,000 volunteer hours.A huge range of volunteers and generous donations have made the work possible.“Since FOBC initiated the restoration project at the Bullock Creek Hatchery Springs site in 2016, we have fundraised well over $200,000 to achieve the transformation of the wetland site you can see today,” Friends of Bullock Creek trustee Andy Oxley said.The World Wetlands Day will be a chance to celebrate everything that has been achieved at the site.“Grab the kids, bring your picnic and a rug and enjoy a free barbecue,” Andy said. “There will be lots to see and do on the day.”PHOTO: Wānaka App

The head of Helicopters Otago is dipping into his own pocket to provide a $10,000 reward to catch whoever stole critical medical supplies from a rescue helicopter.The Queenstown rescue helicopter was burgled at the Taieri Airfield over the weekend after taking a critically ill patient to Dunedin Hospital early on Sunday (January 12) morning.The 48-hour reward is on offer from 8am today (Tuesday January 14).It was bad weather that kept the rescue helicopter from returning to Queenstown, with the crew having to hunker down instead.A bag with the helicopter's medical supplies including drugs was checked before they went to bed.It was gone by the time they got up.Helicopters Otago chief executive Graeme Gale is furious, going into his own pocket to pay for the reward to catch whoever was involved."I want two things - I want my bag returned with the equipment in it and I also want the name of this clown that actually did it," he said."Now his mates will dob him in for $10,000, surely. It's an easy $10,000. It's more guaranteed than Lotto. All I want is the name and my bag back."Whoever did this broke at least two civil aviation rules by coming onto the airfield and entering the helicopter before taking the essential gear, he said.They were lucky to discover it was gone before they were called on a rescue mission, Gale said."Potentially a patient would die, if it's that critical and we need some of the equipment that's in that bag. A builder can't build a house without his hammer and nails."Our medics can not go to a job and attend to critically unwell patients without their equipment that they use on a daily basis."This is, in my book, just an unforgivable act that this clown has done."Nothing in the bag has street value but it would be costly to replace if the bag was not returned, he said.Their medical equipment was funded by a local community trust.Gale did not believe the trust should have to fork out more money to cover costs, so he planned to replace it himself."I can't go down to the shop down the road, I can't go to Kmart or Mitre 10 and replace that equipment," he said."This is specialised equipment that takes time to get and it is very important for us to get this back so we can go and do the job that we were put here to do and that is saving lives."Police said taking the medical supplies put patients' lives at risk, but could pose a lethal risk if someone decided to take the drugs recreationally.An investigation is underway and anyone with information should contact the police.PHOTO: Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter Trust

Otago Fish & Game has congratulated anglers across the region for their exceptional compliance with fishing regulations during the summer season.Despite a notable decrease in angler numbers on the lakes and rivers, compliance has been at a stand-out level, with only two offences recorded in the region.Fish & Game officers have been actively patrolling popular fishing spots across the region, with more than 200 anglers checked.The two offences recorded were one instance of fishing without a licence and another involving an angler trolling with two rods — an offence that remains the second most common after fishing without a licence.“It’s great to see the compliance so good,” Fish & Game officer Ben Sowry said. “In a usual year, it would be common to pick up a couple of offences every day, but this year people have been behaving.”While weather conditions were less than ideal, with plenty of windy and rainy days discouraging anglers, the cooler weather has also had its advantages.“Catches have been pretty good with the slightly cooler weather helping to keep the trout and salmon feeding in shallower water,” Ben said.“The weather over the holiday period in the lakes area hasn’t been the classic Kiwi summer.“But those who did get out on the water have not only followed the rules but also enjoyed some rewarding fishing.”Anglers are reminded to review the fishing regulations at the start of each season to stay informed about any changes and refresh their knowledge of the rules.“By purchasing a licence and following the regulations, anglers are directly supporting efforts to conserve and restore local fish habitats, ensuring sustainable populations for future generations of anglers,” Ben said.Find more information on Otago Fish & Game regulations here.PHOTO: Ian Hadland, Otago Fish & Game

Registrations are now open for Wānaka’s popular Autumn Art School, which will take place in April (22-26).The once-a-year art school gives people the opportunity to step away from their everyday lives for a week and deep dive into learning or fine-tuning a skill or interest, with help from experienced tutors. The classes offered this year range from videography to watercolour portraits, to travel photography, contemporary painting and drama.There’s also brush making, creative felting and pounamu carving, among others.“There is a range of classes listed and we look forward to a creative week,” a statement from the Wānaka Autumn Art School said. “This is a great opportunity to step off the world to learn new skills and create something unique.”“Beginners and experienced students [are] welcome. There are many opportunities to meet new friends, socialise as well as learn about the different tutors.”Classes often sell out quickly and potential students are encouraged to book quickly.The Wānaka Autumn Art School is a non-profit event run by the Upper Clutha Community Arts Council.Surplus funds provide scholarships for young and needy artists and the betterment of the arts in the Upper Clutha Community.Find the full Wānaka Autumn Art School programme here.PHOTO: Supplied

Luggate’s updated drinking water scheme is now expected to be operational by the end of the year.Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) will invest in two new supply bores, access to a new water source, and a new ultraviolet (UV) treatment plant for the township.89971Luggate had initially been set for supply upgrades in 2028.However, it made sense to accelerate delivery of the new infrastructure as part of works to introduce a protozoa barrier (UV disinfection) for the township this year, QLDC acting general manager property and infrastructure Simon Mason said.“The new treatment plant will ensure drinking water in Luggate remains safe and achieves compliance, and the new bores mean we can provide enough water to meet the needs of this growing community,” Simon said.“The project also includes development of a new long-term reservoir site which will eventually include significantly increased storage capacity as part of future investment in the area.”A tender for the work is on track to go out to market in early 2025, and physical works are anticipated to begin in the middle of the year.The estimated cost of these works is $6.3M.QLDC first signalled it had identified another solution to Luggate water treatment issues in October last year.Mayor Glyn Lewers congratulated staff on finding a solution that was both faster and cheaper than the one initially anticipated.See also: Early delivery of Luggate water treatment.More information on the project and what to expect during construction will be shared once a contractor is selected and its delivery programme developed, Simon said.PHOTO: Wānaka App

Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) has begun a procurement process for consultants to undertake community consultation on the future of Wānaka Airport.The council signalled last year it would begin to work on a long-term planning process for Wānaka Airport in this financial year (2024-2025), which would “form the basis of a future masterplan”. Funding for a future review for the airport was included in the Long Term Plan (LTP) adopted by councillors in September.QLDC says key questions to consider during the review include: the community and stakeholder vision for Wānaka Airport; how to ensure community engagement is effective; and potential scenarios for the airport and its future management.In October, representatives of the Wānaka Airport Users Group, Wānaka Stakeholders Group Inc (WSG), Wao Aotearoa, Albert Town Community Association, Cardrona Ratepayers and Residents Society, Hāwea Community Association, Luggate Community Association, and Mt Barker & District Residents' Association met with the Wānaka Upper Clutha Community Board (WUCCB) to outline six ‘key principles’ they want to guide the planning process.The groups asked that the master planning process be independent, transparent, and locally accountable.Read more: Community groups call for ‘transparent’ airport planningA skydiver’s view of Wānaka Airport.A QLDC spokesperson told the Wānaka App the procurement process now underway will seek “the independent delivery” of the Wānaka Airport Future Review.“The intended response being sought includes a mix of aeronautical, social, economic, legal and consultation/strategic communication expertise.”He said the process would involve extensive engagement with key stakeholders, the Wānaka-Upper Clutha community and wider Queenstown Lakes District.QLDC said details for the review and subsequent community engagement will be shared after a consultant has been appointed and a timeline agreed, which was expected by February 2025. Wānaka Airport is owned by QLDC and Queenstown Airport Corporation manages Wānaka Airport’s day-to-day operations on behalf of QLDC under a management services agreement.These management services include noise monitoring, property management, regulatory planning and compliance, and liaising with the airport community on day-to-day matters.PHOTOS: Supplied

Locals can learn about the benefits of ‘electrifying’ their home at a talk next week.Electrifying a home means replacing current uses fueled by natural gas, propane, gasoline, or fuel oil with electric appliances. While lights, dishwashers and ovens may be electric, there are still many households which use gas for water heating, space heating, plus petrol and diesel for driving.New community group Electrify Wānaka will be speaking at the Wānaka Library this Saturday (January 18) about the benefits of switching to electric.Group secretary Pierre Marasti said he went ‘fully electric’ six years ago. “Our household has one electric vehicle, electric hot water, electric heating and rooftop solar plus a battery system. While there are upfront costs attached, we are now in a situation where our energy is free,” Pierre said. “I want to share our experience so the whole community can reap the benefits of electrification: a better economy, better health and a better environment. That’s why we started Electrify Wānaka.” Electrify Wānaka is supporting the work of Rewiring Aotearoa, a NZ-non profit, which aims to help more Kiwis ‘go electric’.Rewiring Aotearoa CEO Mike Casey said the Southern Lakes has one of the highest per capita rates of electric vehicles and rooftop solar installation in the country.However, it is a small percentage overall “so we need to rapidly increase those adoption rates”.This Saturday’s talk will take place at 11am. Contact Wānaka Library to book a spot.PHOTO: Wānaka App