The Wānaka wedding industry has wrapped up one of the busiest weeks of the year, showing the local industry is thriving.The main wedding season runs from October through April, with January and February typically the most in-demand months. Those working across the sector say bookings have returned to, and in some cases surpassed, pre-Covid levels.“It has certainly bounced back,” Tregold wedding planner Samantha Stout told the Wānaka App.The Rippon wedding venue. PHOTO: Luisa ApanuiAt Rippon, events manager Siena Hatton-Brown said the venue would host more than 60 weddings this season.“It’s been a really successful season,” she said.Celebrant Sophia Shortcliffe, of Married with Friends, said the company has officiated more than 350 weddings in the past 12 months, with almost 115 taking place this year alone.“We’ve seen significant growth after… Covid,” Sophia said. “The long-term vendors who have been around five-plus years are really thriving.”Destination weddings are contributing to the growth. Local make-up artist Emilie, of Emilie Plowman Makeup, said more than half of her clients this season have travelled from Australia, others have come from Canada, the United States and parts of Asia. Most of her New Zealand clients are also from outside Wānaka.While Wānaka’s scenery is a drawcard, a strong network of planners, venues, caterers, photographers, celebrants and stylists means a couple’s wedding can be organised entirely within the region.“One of the best things about Wānaka that stands out… is it really is a group effort, we all… band together to make sure everyone has the perfect day,” Siena said.This collaboration has supported both larger traditional weddings and the growing niche market of elopements, which Alpine Florists owner Vera Yakzhik said is “booming”.Samantha said elopements have always been popular with a certain market, but that market has grown.“It was already there, but it’s a wider net than before… There seems to be a trend at the moment for either small micro-weddings or large, big-budget weddings.”

A proposed gold mine is on the fast-track list. Proponents say it will bring jobs and money to the region, but opponents say it will be an economic 'short-term sugar hit ... with long-term consequences'.Plans for a large, open cast gold mine in Central Otago are pitting locals against each other, while a mining industry executive says New Zealanders are too negative and catastrophise projects they don't understand.Australian company Santana Minerals has applied for fast-track approval to build an open cast mine in the Dunstan mountain range, an hour's drive east of Queenstown, after discovering what it calls the largest single gold deposit in New Zealand in more than four decades.According to the documents submitted to the fast-track panel, Santana will build four open mine pits. The largest, Rise and Shine Open Pit will be one kilometre long, 800 metres wide and 200 metres deep. There will also be three shallower pits, a processing plant that is one kilometre long and 120 metres wide, and a tailing storage facility to store mineral waste dust.It says the project will employ hundreds of people and be worth $6 billion in revenue and more than $1b in taxes and royalties for New Zealand.The fast-track panel is set to decide by late October and, if approved, it will be the first new mine to get the go-ahead under the accelerated process.Opponents fear it will destroy threatened plants, scar the unique landscape and pollute the land and water. They say New Zealand will not get all the economic benefits because Santana is an Australian company, and they warn it will open the door to more mining in the region.Two main groups are campaigning against the mine with backing from famous residents including actor Sir Sam Neill and painter Sir Grahame Sydney, as well as the former prime minister Helen Clark.One of the groups, Sustainable Tarras, has already been fighting plans to build an international airport near the town. It calls the Santana proposal 'David versus Goliath' and is asking for donations to fund experts to fully understand the economic, environmental and social impacts of the mine."We are fighting this hard," it says on its website.Artist Gregory O'Brien, who organised a fundraising exhibition for the group, says the "proposed desecration of a heritage area for purely monetary gain is an outrage to all of us, as it is to the citizens of Central Otago and to all New Zealanders"."Painters, photographers, writers, film-makers, choreographers and other arts practitioners from within Central Otago and further afield are incensed at the churlishness of both the mining consortium and the Government's ruinous 'fast-track' (aka 'Highway to Hell') legislation."The environmental cost of such a cold-blooded, extractive exercise is simply too high, as is the social impact and down-stream legacy."On the other side, Santana Mine Supporters, a Facebook group with 6,800 members says Central Otago "deserves opportunity - higher-paid local jobs, stronger regional businesses, and meaningful investment back into our community. We also believe development must be done properly, with high standards, transparency, and long-term accountability."RNZ Central Otago reporter Katie Todd has spoken to many locals, including farmers who see it as a positive move for the region and a continuation of the area's mining legacy.She says the application has been drawn out."Santana Minerals were asking for it to be considered within 30 days or so and we've recently learnt it's going to be more like 140 days."In part that's because of iwi opposition. Kā Rūnaka, which is a collective of Otago hapū, has raised concerns about potential Treaty settlement breaches and their concerns were described by the panel convenor of the fast-track application as significant and immutable."So that's going to be something to watch," says Todd.Matthew Sole of Central Otago Environmental Society says communities are divided over the mine."There's a lot of tension in the community," he says. "There are certainly a lot of people for it."It's the comments you receive on social media when you try and put up a counter argument and the difficulty I find with it is it's actually hard to have a conversation."Sole says many people are under financial pressure and are concerned about the country's future."I take a wider, longer term view that we've got to move on from exploitation to economies that have a right relationship with our environment. I think we've got to change away from these extractive processes to more enduring relationships and regenerative relationships with the land."Sole has produced a YouTube video of the area that will be mined and points out unique, threatened plants and remnants of past mining endeavours that are part of its precious heritage that he says are at risk. He says the old mining era cannot be compared to today's."We're talking about two different things. The early mining was largely mining of individual endeavour and it was largely with human hands with the use of water," he says.The impact of modern mining is "devastating, it has lost its context and meaning because of the vast industrial scale by massive machinery. We're not comparing like with like".In a story for Newsroom last week, Jill Herron wrote that nearly a million hectares across Otago, and another 100,000 in Southland, are now at various stages of being "pegged" by gold mining companies.But chief executive of New Zealand Minerals Council, Josie Vidal, says people have no need to panic and "possibly none" of the areas that have been identified on a minerals map drawn up by Earth Sciences New Zealand will be mined.Heightened interest in the area is driven by the record price of gold, she says. She believes many will be hobby gold miners and doubts there would be any other large mines like Santana that are at a serious stage."There's a lot of interest in gold of the traditional gold mining areas of which Otago is one, and there's quite a lot of interest from smaller prospectors who could do quite well out of getting a fairly small amount of gold because the price is so high."She calls the Santana proposal "a bog standard gold mine"."I'm mystified by the attention. It's a gold mine like any other. There's no reason for it not to proceed."When The Detail asked Santana for an interview, it replied in an email with a number of conditions.On balance and representation it said, "Please confirm who else will be featured or interviewed, and whether local voices and businesses many of which support the project - not just high-profile critics - are being included to reflect the full spectrum of community sentiment".It later declined our interview request but referred us it its 9,400-page application.In an email, it said it welcomes scrutiny."What we cannot support is the amplification of assertions that have already been addressed, in writing, in data, numerous interviews and expert reports - simply because they are emotive or convenient to repeat and you haven't bothered to fact check their claims."If the program's objective is balance and informed debate, then the technical evidence must sit alongside the sentiment."

An incredible amount of growth and change has happened in Wānaka over the past decade, and it has been a privilege for the Wānaka App team to cover it all.In March 2016 - the Wānaka App’s debut - Three Parks was largely paddocks, the Wānaka Recreation Centre hadn’t been built, people were still debating whether the Wānaka Watersports Facility was a good idea or not - and ‘that Wānaka Tree’ was largely unnoticed.In our first week we covered hearings on the planned watersports facility, medals for snow sports star Adam Hall, and local takes on the nation-wide flag referendum.Few people were anticipating a global pandemic, and the risks of the Alpine Fault were not as well understood or discussed as they are today.Since then, we’ve seen the district expand, subdivisions mushroom, the shopping centre shift, the Upper Clutha’s role in the wider district come under scrutiny, and our representation change. The Wānaka App has been a voice in covering issues as diverse as the health of our deep lakes, the fight for a local birthing unit, and the Education Review Office report which led to major changes at our only secondary school.Our editorial on the McDonald’s debate, which drew attention to health service inequities in the district, helped spark community advocacy for improved access to health services - which is now beginning to bear fruit.There have been contentious issues which we’ve done our best to report on fairly and impartially, while keeping the community informed - and finding time for light-hearted, personal stories too.We’re grateful to all the people in the community who have taken the time to share their stories with us. Delivering news and information has been a constant journey of innovation, from the early days of a simple mobile app, to a full platform development to deliver a sophisticated mobile app experience along with an online experience at wanakaapp.nz. The weekly Wānaka Newsletter was added in 2021 providing another way for readers to keep up to date with what’s happening in the community.Today the Wānaka App’s channels record more than 130,000 reader sessions every month and around 800,000 page views.Despite all the changes around us, the Wānaka App team has remained constant. Our owners, Tony and Pip O’Regan, continue to innovate and serve the community. Caroline Harker, our first editor, set us on course for the first year, when I took the helm. Maddy Harker has been reporting from the beginning, and Diana Cocks joined the team soon after (she is now focusing her time on helping preserve Wānaka’s history). Melanie Cusens - a new recruit to the team - has recently joined us as a casual reporter.We look forward to being witness to (as well as part of) the next decade. Thank you so much for reading.PHOTO: Wānaka App

A resource consent application has been lodged for a 257-home subdivision near Three Parks, part of a growing trend towards medium-density housing for Wānaka.The Links development proposes a mix of home types, ranging from two-bedroom units to larger three- and four-bedroom units with garages, application documents say.What sets the proposal apart from other local developments is the lot sizes, which run as small as 84sqm (the anticipated lot size for the two storey, two-bedroom homes).The lot size of the three-bedroom homes range from 111sqm to 146sqm, while the largest lot for four-bedroom homes is 196sqm.“The proposed range of residential unit typologies will deliver a well-balanced mix and the ability for inclusive housing supply,” application documents said.“This mix caters to a wide spectrum of household types and is intended to meet a range of needs, including those of individuals, couples, downsizers, and growing families. “Importantly, the proposal seeks to provide more housing options.”The lot sizes are as small as 84sqm, and up to just under 200sqm.Listing real estate agent Mel Carter (Harcourts Wānaka) told the Wānaka App locals are interested in medium-density housing.“We’ve been waiting for this for a long time and I think we’re primed for it,” she said.“I think it’s a positive thing for the town.”In regard to the relatively small section sizes, Mel said: “We’re not really selling for sections here”.“These are low maintenance townhouses. Compared to other townhouses they are generous.”Mel said the plans include “pocket parks and green connections”, and all the villas include garages or carports, with a minimum of one off-street car park, plus 93 additional visitor car parks. The Links would be adjacent to the Wānaka Golf Course and State Highway 84.The Links application was made public just days before Mt Iron Junction Ltd applied to the Minister of Infrastructure for a fast-track consent to develop a 250-dwelling medium density housing development - just up the road from Three Parks.Read more: Mt Iron Junction proposal lodgedIf both proposals are approved it would mean approximately 500 ‘entry level’ homes coming to market in the coming years.The Links developer Kurt Gibbons is behind the Five Mile Villas in Frankton, a development of 226 medium-density houses. Kurt was approached for comment.IMAGES: SuppliedRead more: Urban intensification: What the new changes mean for Wānaka

More than 500 community objections weren’t the end of the fight over Lake Hāwea’s proposed Super Liquor store, which has been reignited with an appeal against the approved alcohol licence.In January the District Licensing Committee (DLC) approved Keyrouz Holding Ltd’s alcohol licensing application for the Super Liquor proposed for Lake Hāwea’s Longview subdivision.It followed significant public attention and heated opposition from the Lake Hāwea community.Longview resident Lisa Riley, who led community advocacy via the group Lake Hāwea Voices, told the Wānaka App this week she had lodged an appeal.“The issues being considered go to how the statutory criteria and the object of the [Sale and Supply of Alcohol] Act are interpreted and applied in practice,” she said.She said the appeal was about whether the statutory framework established under the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act “is being applied in a way that genuinely advances its object[ive]”.In particular it focuses on “...the minimisation of alcohol-related harm, and whether the current processes are functioning as intended”, she said.The application attracted 542 objections - believed to be a record high relative to the size of the affected community.The DLC, in its decision, noted that while the objections did “reflect the concern by many in the community”, it found the “evidential value of these submissions to be low”.At the time of the decision, Lisa said the decision had dismissed “the collective voice of the community”.A QLDC spokesperson confirmed this week that an appeal had been lodged with the Alcohol Regulatory and Licensing Authority (ARLA). Lisa said that “a number of other objectors have indicated that they intend to apply to be joined as parties to the appeal”.Appellants will receive a notice of hearing and a timetable in due course, the QLDC spokesperson said.IMAGE: Supplied

After a prolonged process, a fast-track consent application has finally been lodged for a community-focused residential development at the base of Mt Iron.Mt Iron Junction Ltd has applied to the Minister of Infrastructure for a fast-track consent to develop a six-hectare site on the corner of State Highways 6 and 84 in Wānaka - six years after an initial proposal in 2019.The project, backed by long-term local Steve (Shaker) Schikker and business partner Peter Greene, was included in the government’s fast-track approvals list in 2024.Steve said the proposed development plan honours the intention of the original plans for the site to provide attainable homes for workers and young professionals. However, instead of six-bedroom worker-style accommodation as initially proposed, the revised plans bring together a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational components, he said.“We are responding to a societal shift in how people live, and we’re confident that we have designed a living and lifestyle space with the elements the town needs, such as attainable housing, a childcare centre and more shared community areas,” Steve said.The medium-density housing development comprises 250 dwellings – including one-, two- and three-bedroom options of terraced houses, apartments and build-for-rent units – at prices starting from $550,000. The proposal includes public reserves and “plenty” of parking.“Affordable housing has long been an issue in Wānaka and it’s our hope that Mt Iron Junction can somewhat help with the rectification of that by offering quality, warm homes that people of all ages and stages can comfortably buy or rent,” Steve said. “We’ve also gifted 13 sections to the Queenstown Lakes Community Housing Trust (QLCHT) for them to build on.”  QLCHT CEO Julie Scott said the development would enable the provision of more affordable housing to be created and held in community ownership in perpetuity.“We embrace the higher density this development offers, and with this we’ll deliver smaller, smarter, simpler dwellings, in particular to singles, couples and smaller families,” she said. “Feedback from our waiting list demonstrates high demand for central locations such as Mt Iron Junction – we look forward to being part of this essential development.”The development includes one-, two- and three-bedroom options of terraced houses, apartments and build-for-rent units. Two public reserves (including a barbecue area, pickleball court, and playground) are proposed as part of the development. Commercial activities such as a petrol station (which is already consented), childcare centre, a café and fresh food market are also included in the application. Steve said the plan also has “plenty” of vehicle parking for residents, plus 175 additional car parks.Initial resource consent was sought in November 2018 for a mixed-use development. The proposal went to a hearing in 2020 and was declined by independent commissioners on the basis it was contrary to the objectives and policies of the PDP (Proposed District PlaCommissioners considered the plan - for rural zoned land - would have “more than minor” adverse effects as it urban development outside the identified urban growth boundary. An amended plan was granted consent by the Environment Court in April 2021, before being included in the fast-track approvals list. The development also attracted attention when McDonald’s Restaurants NZ proposed a restaurant and drive through at the site in 2023.Ultimately, independent commissioners turned down the proposal due to ‘more than minor’ adverse effects on the environment.The developers hope, if the application is approved, work may begin in late 2026.“We believe the Mt Iron Junction masterplan meets the needs of our growing community, and we’re looking forward to it finally taking shape,” Steve said.The Mt Iron Junction proposal application has coincided with news of another medium-density development for Wānaka, The Links, which is mooted for Three Parks. IMAGES: Supplied

Challenge Wānaka is now part of a major global triathlon series after the Professional Triathletes Organisation (PTO) acquired a majority shareholding in Challenge Family, the international series that includes the Wānaka race.“For more than two decades, Challenge Family events have been built on strong local communities, athlete-first experiences, and a genuine passion for the sport,” Challenge Wānaka Trust event director Jane Sharman said. “We’re encouraged by the shared vision outlined by the PTO, Challenge Family and World Triathlon to create a more unified and visible global series.”The acquisition makes Challenge Family a key part of the newly announced Triathlon World Tour, launching in 2027 in partnership with World Triathlon. Jane said the move was a “positive evolution for triathlon - one that brings greater clarity to the competition structure and strengthens the pathways for professional and age group athletes alike”.PTO CEO Sam Renouf said the partnership creates a clearer structure for athletes, fans, and sponsors.“Challenge Family’s respected event platform, community-driven ethos and operational expertise make them a natural partner,” he said.Challenge Family CEO Jort Vlam welcomed the move.“This partnership allows us to preserve what makes Challenge Family unique while contributing to a unified, globally recognised series,” he said.Challenge Wānaka’s 20th event took place last week. Read more: An ‘incredibly special’ Challenge WānakaThe full impact of the acquisition on Challenge Wānaka is not yet clear.“We’ll continue to keep our athletes and supporters informed as more details emerge about the future structure, and we look forward to playing our part in shaping the next chapter of triathlon,” Jane said.PHOTO: Sean Beale

Shoppers at Three Parks could soon notice fewer dead spots and faster mobile data, with multiple networks upgrading coverage in the fast-growing commercial area.One NZ has deployed a temporary Cell on Wheels (CoW) at the site as part of a larger programme to strengthen service in the area. Many local customers will be familiar with difficulties accessing mobile data, and the CoW, deployed last Friday (February 13), has “already made a noticeable difference to network coverage”, according to One NZ.“For customers, that means faster data speeds and a better experience using their phones,” a One NZ spokesperson told the Wānaka App. They added the company was aware of performance issues in the area, "particularly at busy times”, and the CoW is one of a number of steps to address them.An upgrade to the Wānaka High site, which provides coverage into Three Parks, has just been completed, and the company has plans for another mobile site in the area later this year.Spark, another mobile network operator, is also investing in Three Parks.Spark has had a temporary cell site there since December 2023 to support growing demand. A representative said the company is planning a permanent site later this year.It did not respond to a question about whether customers have experienced data issues in the area.Meanwhile, 2degrees, New Zealand’s third mobile network operator, said it wasn’t aware of performance issues at Three Parks but said it was “keen to get any reports from customers so that we can investigate further”. A Queenstown Lakes District Council representative said staff meet regularly with telecommunications providers to plan for future growth, but the council is not responsible for cell towers or internet coverage, which are governed by central government legislation.

Queenstown Airport Corporation (QAC) will pay a $7.22 million interim dividend following a strong start to the 2025/26 financial year, with Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) set to receive $5.42M as the majority shareholder.In its interim report for the six months to December 31, 2025, QAC highlighted robust passenger numbers and aircraft movements as key drivers of performance. Revenue for the period was $43.6M (+ eight percent), with EBITDA of $31.2M (+ six percent) and a net profit after tax of $16.8M (+ four percent). Scheduled aircraft movements rose three percent, while passenger numbers increased nine percent to 1,458,538.The interim dividend represents a modest increase on the last interim payout. “The rise in international passengers is particularly notable,” QAC chair Simon Flood said.“Queenstown and the wider Southern Lakes region have a strong appeal to those in Australia and beyond, and we have benefitted from that trend, which has been enabled by our airline partners increasing capacity on trans-Tasman routes.”QAC chief executive Shane O’Hare highlighted the importance of the major investment in infrastructure mapped out in the Queenstown Airport Master Plan. “Our capital works programme is gaining considerable momentum, with several major projects well under way and others to start soon,” he said. “We are working closely with our customers and other key stakeholders to ensure the decisions we make now meet their needs far into the future and elevate the traveller experience.”The airport corporation is 75.01 percent owned by QLDC with Auckland Airport holding the balance of the shares.Read the full report here.PHOTO: Supplied

The developer of the Bendigo-Ophir gold project has secured the massive financial backing required to move from exploration to construction.In a statement to the ASX and NZX on Tuesday, Santana Minerals confirmed it has received "firm commitments" to raise A$130M (approx. NZ$152.1M) from "institutional and sophisticated investors".The company emerged from a trading halt following the announcement.Chief executive Damian Spring said the funds will "accelerate our pathway to production" by paying for early civil infrastructure works and placing deposits on major equipment.According to the market update, the move is designed to ensure the company can begin work immediately if final resource consents are granted.In a boost for local shareholders, the company's announcement also detailed a share purchase plan.This allows existing investors in New Zealand and Australia to apply for up to A$24,948 (approx. NZ$29,200) worth of new shares at the same discounted price of A$0.90 (approx. NZ$1.05) offered to the large institutions.Alongside the financial maneuvers, the local conversation remains active.Santana Minerals reported plenty of interest at the Central Otago A&P Show on Saturday, saying close to 200 people dropped by their tent.According to a post on the company’s Facebook page, the most common question from locals was, “So… when do you start digging?”.The company said their youngest visitors included a "sharp group of students from Poolburn School" who are already shareholders."People came with real curiosity and plenty of straight-talk," the post said."Some raised concerns, many shared encouragement."Sustainable Tarras shares a video message from former prime minister Helen Clark. IMAGE: Screenshot/FacebookHowever, the opposition is also ramping up its profile.Community group Sustainable Tarras shared a video to their Facebook page this week featuring former prime minister Helen Clark, who urged those concerned about the environmental impact of the mine to add their voices to collective opposition."Speak up. Spupport those who are asking for proper consideration to be given to future planning, the environment, communities and iwi," she said in the video."Let us all help shape the future of the country we love with proper care and attention. We are its guardians."The latest developments come just days after reports of escalating tension in the community, including claims of online abuse directed at those publicly opposing the project, which is being considered under a fast-track consenting pathway.The expert panel appointed to decide the mine's fate is officially scheduled to begin its work next week - the start of a 140-working-day timeframe, with a final decision required by October 29.Read more: Claims of threatening behaviour escalate mine tensions

After a turbulent history, Wānaka Airport has been given “a clear sense of direction” thanks to a report on its future options, which was presented to elected members in Wānaka yesterday (Tuesday February 10).Staff from consultancy firm Egis presented a summary of their final report on the Wānaka Airport Future Review to Queenstown Lakes District councillors and the Wānaka Upper Clutha Community Board (WUCCB).The report also makes recommendations for the future planning and management of Wānaka airport, including the development of a masterplan.“We think QLDC and Queenstown Airport Corporation (QAC) need to rebuild their relationships with the community … a masterplan provides a good opportunity for that,” the Egis consultant said. The project was “a genuine attempt by QLDC to connect with the community”, Egis said, following a loss of trust in the council and QAC, and concerns about airport management - which were common themes in community feedback.“When asked about management at the airport, the idea of local oversight was popular,” the summary says. “We interpreted some of this to be a result of low transparency with the current operating model and financial performance of the community asset. A lack of clarity on future airport development has created a vacuum of information and resulted in mistrust around the airport’s ambitions.”During consultation last year, the Egis project team identified a series of possible scenarios for the airport’s potential future based on the feedback from the two rounds of public consultation and online engagement.The most supported scenario was ‘Scenario 3: Wānaka Airport to be a general aviation airport with domestic routes to Christchurch and/or Wellington’. There was also support for the current uses and users of the airport, and a desire for the airport (which currently operates at a loss) to be financially self-sustaining.Egis said if QAC isn’t on board with the community’s favoured scenario, then the corporation “should probably walk away” and find another operator for the airport.Wānaka Airport is owned by QLDC and operated by QAC under a management services agreement. In 2021, the High Court found that QLDC’s granting of the Wānaka Airport lease to the QAC was unlawful. The judicial review was brought to the High Court by the Wānaka Stakeholders Group, which believed QLDC had not consulted properly and transparently about plans for the airport.Simon Telfer emphasised that Egis’ final report was “not the end game”.“The community board has been asking for this for a couple of years… to give clarity on the strategic direction of the airport for the next 30 years.”Read the summary of Egis’ final report here (item 3 on the workshop agenda).The full report is expected to be delivered to QLDC next week.PHOTOS: Wānaka App

A report signalling major changes to zoning in the district has been approved.Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) councillors gave the green light to an independent hearing panel’s recommendation report for the Urban Intensification Variation (UIV) last week.The UIV, and intensification generally, involves allowing denser housing and commercial development, QLDC planning and development general manager David Wallace said. The adopted UIV includes a ‘refined’ approach to height and density across the district from recommendations made by an independent hearing panel, comprising independent commissioners David Allen, Ian Munro, and Lyal Cocks.Greater heights and density will be possible on generally greenfield land in ‘Wānaka South’.The plan has been a long time coming - it was first broached in 2023, under direction from the central government National Policy Statement on Urban Development (NPS-UD) to build ‘out and up’.Read more: Urban intensification: Growth ‘up and out’ proposedThe plan includes a focus on intensification in areas with higher accessibility and proximity to commercial and community services, such as Wānaka’s town centre and Three Parks.Some of the key decisions as part of the recommendations include:A Suburban Residential Zone (SRZ) will enable more flexible two‑storey infill housing by increasing current permitted heights from 6.5m or 7m currently to 8m.The Medium Density Residential Zone (MDRZ) will be retained, and a new zone - Medium Density Residential A Zone (MDRAZ) - will allow greater height and density.Greater heights and density will be enabled on generally greenfield land in Wānaka South, increasing current permitted heights from 8m to 11m and removing density requirements of one residential unit per 250m2 net site area.The High Density Residential Zone (HDRZ) will be retained, with a new zone called High Density Residential A Zone (HDRAZ) to allow for greater height and density at Three Parks.The new HDRAZ will allow for building height of 16.5m and a tiered approach for any building greater than 24m to be discretionary activity.Existing zones and lower height limits in smaller settlements like Lake Hāwea will largely be retained.QLDC council staff will publicly notify the decision and alter Proposed District Plan provisions to reflect the recommendations. There will be a 30-working day period where appeals can be lodged to the Environment Court from the date of public notification of the decision. The panel’s recommendation report, revised chapter provisions, and maps of the changes can all be viewed on the QLDC website.Read more: More residential growth for ‘South Wānaka’ PHOTOS: Wānaka App

Santana Minerals will not know whether its Bendigo-Ophir gold mine can proceed until late October, after a decision to set the project on the longest assessment timeframe requested by local authorities.The decision follows a January conference where councils, government agencies and iwi argued the project was too complex to be assessed within the shorter timeframes initially sought by the applicant.In a formal minute issued under the Fast-Track Approvals Act, panel convenor Jane Borthwick confirmed a 140-working-day timeframe for the decision, with the expert panel due to begin work on February 25 and a final verdict required by October 29.Jane said the scale and technical complexity of the application, along with the number of unresolved issues and the fact the proposal falls under several different laws and agencies, justified both the extended timeframe as well as the appointment of a seven-member panel.Outstanding information requests and the likelihood of expert conferencing, mediation or hearings were also factors in her decision.The Bendigo-Ophir proposal, lodged by Matakanui Gold Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Santana Minerals, includes open-cast and underground mining above Cromwell.At the January conference, Otago Regional Council, Central Otago District Council and Department of Conservation all argued the project could not be properly assessed within a compressed fast-track timeframe, citing the size of the application, the number of matters still in contention, and concerns about the pace and depth of pre-lodgement engagement.Iwi Kā Rūnaka also raised concerns about the scale and longevity of the project’s potential effects, including the possibility treaty settlement issues could arise.Jane said if such issues were triggered during the process, additional time would be required for the panel to consider any amendments, though the overall statutory timeframe could not be extended.The mining company initially sought a 30-working-day decision period and later indicated it would accept 60 working days.“The applicant has not persuaded me that 60 working days is an appropriate timeframe,” Jane said.“The application is substantial in scale and technically complex...more complex than the nearest comparable case.”The expert panel will be chaired by Hon Matthew Muir KC, with members Gina Sweetman, Philip Barry, Roger MacGibbon, Tim Mulliner, Peter Kensington and Douglas Johnson, bringing expertise across mining, planning, environmental science, hydrology and geotechnical engineering.A panel nominee put forward by Central Otago District Council was not included.Santana Minerals chief executive Damian Spring said the confirmation of a firm decision date marked an important procedural step for the project, providing him a “clear line of sight”.“From our perspective, certainty around process and timing is what matters, and we now have that.”He said while a shorter time frame was preferable, the company was now focused on working constructively with the panel and other participants in the fast-track process.Participant comments on the application are due on April 10, with the company’s response on April 17.A spokesperson for mine opposition group Sustainable Tarras said group members were "relieved" to see the longer decision-making timeframe and the larger sized panel of experts."We are cautiously optimistic that this panel will be able to identify the gaps in the data, the overstated economic case, and the underestimation of environmental impacts," the group said in a statement released after the decision was published."We also remain hopeful that the panel will invite a wide range of affected parties, including ourselves. We have therefore taken steps to engage experts in areas where we believe we can add evidence to what we understand the agencies will be submitting."

What started as a homesick craving for fresh pasta has turned into Wānaka’s newest eatery.Fresca Pasta Kitchen opened its doors just days ago with an all-day menu celebrating fresh pasta, plus a range of sides, snacks, sandwiches and treats.Owners Luciana Garcia and Ignacio Sande, who have backgrounds in sports management, are brand new to the food industry, but pasta has always been a taste of home for the couple.“We grew up in Uruguay, which has a really strong Italian heritage,” Luciana told the Wānaka App. “Over there, you can buy fresh pasta on every second block.“Fresh pasta is about family and simplicity and getting together. It’s something we really missed.”After 11 years in Invercargill, the couple moved to Wānaka in 2021. A business course helped shape their plan for the eatery and their home kitchen became their test lab.“For the last two and a half years we have been experimenting and filling the freezer with pasta,” Luciana said.‘Pasta crew’ member Jesica Pedrocca with some freshly made pasta.The aim was to recreate what they missed from home - fresh, reasonably priced pasta people can enjoy in the eatery or at home - and fill the gap between supermarket pasta and a more expensive restaurant experience.Ignacio said they fine-tuned the menu with help from an Auckland-based chef, and when the premises - formerly Ritual Cafe - became available, they jumped at the opportunity.Pasta and sauces are made fresh each morning and in the first days since opening many have sold out by midday.Luciana said the pair have been overwhelmed with the level of local support for their new venture. She said the feedback so far had been “great”.“Pasta is something simple that most people love,” Luciana said. Fresca Pasta Kitchen is open 8am-8pm, seven days a week, at 18 Helwick Street.PHOTOS: Wānaka App

Central Otago District Council has signed off a land access agreement with Santana Minerals for the proposed Bendigo-Ophir gold project that includes a million-dollar-plus annual payment to ratepayers.The agreement, approved by elected members during a closed section of the council’s first meeting of the year on Wednesday (January 28), relates solely to access over council-owned roads under the Crown Minerals Act and does not constitute approval of mining activity.It covers access along Thomsons Gorge Road and the Shepherds Creek paper road, including a 20-metre corridor on either side of those routes.In a statement on Monday announcing the agreement, CODC chief executive Peter Kelly said the council was required, as a landowner, to consider and negotiate access arrangements where appropriate, but stressed it stopped short of providing green light for the mine itself.“Approving this agreement provides clarity around access arrangements, but it does not predetermine whether the mine will proceed,” Peter said.“That decision sits with the relevant consenting and regulatory processes.”Any future road stopping would still require approval under the Public Works Act or the Local Government Act.If any roads were stopped, replacement routes would be constructed to ensure continued public access.Alongside access arrangements, the agreement sets out a community funding framework that would apply only if the project was ultimately consented and developed.Under the agreement, Santana Minerals would make an annual payment of $1.25M to the council, indexed to CPI, starting six months after commercial gold production began.The funding would be ring-fenced, administered by the council, and reported separately in its annual accounts.Mayor Tamah Alley said the agreement ensured the district would receive a clear and transparent return from the use of council land if the project went ahead.“This agreement ensures that if the project goes ahead, the Central Otago community receives tangible, long-term benefits, while maintaining transparency and public accountability,” Tamah said.She said the council had not taken a position for or against the proposed mine.“We acknowledge our community holds a wide range of views. Our focus is on ensuring decisions are made objectively, lawfully, and with full consideration of the information available,” she said.Santana Minerals chief executive Damian Spring said finalising the agreement resolved a long-standing statutory requirement in a “pragmatic” manner.“[It] provides durable clarity around roading and access arrangements, and establishes a transparent framework for long-term community benefit,” he said.“It allows the project to progress in an orderly and disciplined way through the fast-track process, without pre-empting the outcome of that decision.”However, local mine opposition group Sustainable Tarras is criticising the "behind closed doors" manner in which the agreement was reached."We've been in discussion with CODC on this very issue for well over six months. It's complex and has huge implications for the local community, including significant numbers of people who use these roads," the group said in a statement on Monday."We believe there are considerable legal pitfalls to granting access, and we have repeatedly pointed these out to CODC and cautioned them to take time to consult, consider the consequences and involve the wider community."Today, in announcing this behind-closed-doors decision, they've made it clear that community is secondary to their private negotiations with Santana."The Bendigo-Ophir project is a proposed large-scale gold mine in the Dunstan Mountains near Cromwell and Tarras, now under consideration through the government’s fast-track approvals process.The mining company said the site represents the largest gold discovery in New Zealand in more than 40 years, and its mine would be expected to produce 120,000 ounces annually at peak production, for 14 years, if developed.

The second stage of the Alpine Meadows development is in progress, with a resource consent application lodged for almost four dozen new residential lots, which will add more homes to the fast growing ‘South Wānaka’ area.The 42.2 hectare Alpine Meadows stretches from behind the Ballantyne Road industrial area through to Orchard Road and, once completed, the development will feature 370 homes.It is surrounded by other new residential subdivisions: Heritage Park, Alpine Estates and Orchard Park are all in close proximity and in varying stages of completion.Stage two of Alpine Meadows is billed to feature 45 residential lots and two industrial lots.The second stage of the development, a joint venture between Willowridge Development and Orchard Road Holdings, will provide the “missing piece” of the roading network in the area, according to application documents.It will “connect Cardrona Valley Road with Ballantyne Road through an extension of Avalon Station Drive, as well as providing another connection from Deans Drive to Avalon Station Drive”.Ten sections are proposed to be 600m2, smaller than the low density residential zone provides for, but “consistent with the minimum lot size for surrounding development occurring under the PDP”, application documents said.Alpine Meadows fits within Wānaka’s southwestern boundary as described by the 2021 spatial plan, which said Wānaka’s growth should be contained and consolidated within the boundaries of the two rivers, the Clutha and the Cardrona.Queenstown Lakes District Council is considering the Alpine Meadows stage two application.PHOTO: Wānaka App

The colder and wetter than usual summer this year is having an impact on the growth of fruit and resulting in a slightly later harvest for grapes.Central Otago Winegrowers Association general manager Carolyn Murray said overall vine health across Central Otago is excellent, despite the season being marked by continuous rainfall. “Yields are tracking small to average, with a smaller regional crop expected and smaller berry size,” she told the Wānaka App.“Quality is looking very promising, though we're hoping for a warm and dry February and March. She said the harvest is shaping up to be “slightly later overall”.A market update for Central Otago showed growing conditions were slower than usual for summer fruit.“Central Otago GDDs [growing degree days] are falling further behind normal,” Summerfruit NZ communications manager Andrew Bristol said.Last week’s rain in Central Otago has led to some quality issues for apricots, but mostly the fruit is looking good, he said.“Demand for Central Otago nectarines is strong, but maturation is slow.”He said poor weather has also diminished demand for cherries.“Fresh cherries will be available into the first week of February, but that might be the end for this season,” Andrew said.The peach harvest is producing more volume, but Central Otago volumes for plums are still light.But in good news for greengage fans, those fruit are just a week or so away, Andrew said.MetService told the Wānaka App that the forecast is looking “a bit drier” for February.Read more: Outlook for February: spring turns to summer

Residents have objected in numbers to a proposed Super Liquor store on Ardmore Street, lodging almost 40 objections in less than 24 hours - echoing the pushback over a similar store recently approved in Lake Hāwea.The Gate Ltd has applied for an alcohol licence for the store, to be located at the former Countdown Wānaka Metro site, with trading hours from 9am to 10pm, seven days a week. Community member Lisa Riley told the Wānaka App the objections had flowed in quickly since she, alongside other residents and the organisation Communities Against Alcohol Harm, shared an online form designed to simplify the objection process.Objections had been few prior to this - at last count around a week ago, the application had attracted only four, according to Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC).If the Ardmore Street application is approved, it would be the fourth dedicated liquor store on the street, joining Wānaka Liquorland, Betty’s Liquor Store, and Bottle-O Store Wānaka.Lisa said the opposition to the Super Liquor was “not about being anti-business or anti-choice”.“It’s about recognising that Wānaka already has a high concentration of alcohol outlets, and the evidence is very clear: more stores equals more harm.”Lisa said she knew “from experience” that the alcohol licensing process can be intimidating for community members. She led community opposition to the application for the Lake Hāwea Super Liquor, which was approved earlier this month, despite receiving 542 objections.Read more: Longview liquor store approved, appeal to followIn its decision on the Lake Hāwea Super Liquor, the District Licensing Committee (DLC) acknowledged the “record high” number of objections, but said the prospective risk of alcohol harm specific to the Lake Hāwea application was “minimal”.Lisa has indicated an appeal to that decision is coming.As for the Ardmore Street application, she called on expressions of interest from community members who wish to act as primary objectors or help others lodge their objections, and offered to provide guidance or support on lodging objections.Residents have until February 9 to submit objections and interested members of the public can request a copy of the alcohol licence application from QLDC before then.IMAGE: Supplied

Wānaka-based travel broker Rebecca (Becs) Laker has been appointed the new business development manager for World Travellers Christchurch City and World Travellers Wānaka, effective from January 19, 2026.Becs steps into the newly created role after building a successful travel business in Wānaka since joining World Travellers as a broker in 2022. She brings more than 13 years’ experience in the travel industry, alongside two decades in sales-based, customer-focused roles.Her new position will see her providing practical support to World Travellers’ broker teams, who are spread from Northland to Otago, helping them grow their individual businesses. The role also includes recruiting new brokers to join the boutique travel company.“Becs has demonstrated a level of professional business acumen that will lead our brokers to higher levels of success in their respective businesses going forward,” World Travellers managing director Larry Lumsden said. “We are delighted to welcome Becs into this strategic new role.”Becs has worked across both corporate and retail travel, as well as travel recruitment, and is expected to play a key part in strengthening World Travellers’ South Island presence.PHOTO: Supplied