Wānaka Police dealt with light-fingered Aussies, a fleeing driver, and a missing teenager this past week, acting response manager Dylan Hannah-Jones said.“A group of four light-fingered Australian skiers were apprehended by police after ‘forgetting’ to pay for all of their chosen grocery items at New World,” he said. “They were tracked down to a bar in Wānaka, ejected by police and forced to return and pay for their items. “They were trespassed for their shoplifting efforts so might have to settle for Coronet Peak for their skiing now.”Police worked hard to locate missing teenager, Aiden, Dylan said.“After three and a half days, he was located safe and well by police late Sunday morning.”Dylan thanked the Wānaka community for their assistance in the search. A vehicle fled police in Wānaka on Thursday night (June 26) after being signalled to stop for dangerous driving. Police did not engage in a pursuit at the time but after some investigation the vehicle was located in Lake Hāwea, Dylan said.A search warrant was executed, impounding the vehicle for six months, and one person arrested.Dylan congratulated local drivers after last week’s heavy snow through Cardrona, which caused police no issues.“People had their chains and knew how to use them. Good work Wānaka,” Dylan said. “Lastly, as we see an influx of winter activity in Wānaka, we want to encourage our community to call us if they see people or vehicles acting suspiciously. “Sharing information on community pages can be a useful tool, but make your first call to police so we can respond quickly and stand the best chance of preventing a crime from taking place.” 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: Supplied

Otago Central Lakes has taken the first formal step towards developing a ‘Regional Deal’ with central government.This week, the councils in Otago Central Lakes - Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC), Otago Regional Council (ORC) and Central Otago District Council (CODC) - officially kicked off negotiations by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with government ministers.Queenstown Lakes mayor Glyn Lewers said a Regional Deal, if finalised, could address critical infrastructure needs and support sustainable economic growth in the district.“Our entire region is seen as a highly desirable place to live and visit, but we can’t manage the impact of growth alone,” Queenstown Lakes mayor Glyn Lewers said. “We need to work with central government on affordable and sustainable tools that enable us to continue to manage growth and ensure the entire region retains its status as a destination of choice.”Otago Central Lakes lodged its Regional Deal proposal in February and is one of only three regions selected to progress from a total of 18 applications.Read more: Tourism to drive plan for local ‘regional deal’Details about how the Regional Deals (and their City Deal counterparts) will work have been scant but infrastructure minister Chris Bishop provided more information this week. “City and Regional Deals will be strategic 10-year partnerships between local and central government to progress joint priorities including economic growth, enabling abundant housing, better management and utilisation of local assets, and closing the infrastructure deficit,” the minister said.This district “can’t manage the impact of growth alone”, Queenstown Lakes mayor Glyn Lewers says.The government will offer ‘Deal’ partners improved government coordination, early collaboration on system reforms (covering zoning, streamlined planning and land acquisition, among others), new funding and financing tools, and support to “unlock” growth sectors.The government will expect partners, among other things, to provide “a better framework/structure for regional relationships with central government, and improved asset renewals, maintenance and management including ensuring a pipeline of future infrastructure work”, the minister said. “We also expect that councils will go above legal and regulatory minimum requirements to unlock housing growth including around rapid transit corridors and where central government has invested in infrastructure.”Just last week QLDC councillors expressed mixed views on the potential of a Regional Deal.Deputy mayor Quentin Smith was wary, saying it would involve “handing over a whole lot of power and information” to central government.Councillor Lyal Cocks was more optimistic, saying a Regional Deal could provide QLDC with a path that “reduces the rates burden” on the community.While councillor Barry Bruce was concerned about the lack of information and detail available, he said QLDC needed “to go forward on a good-faith basis”.Since the MoU announcement, elected members from other councils within Otago Central Lakes have shared their support for working out a Regional Deal with central government.ORC chair Gretchen Robertson said it was a “great step forward to give the region the ability to get ahead and manage the impacts of that growth and ensure the region remains one of the greatest places on earth to live, work and play”.The MoU “... shows a commitment by the region and central government to address some of the unique challenges in our communities,” CODC mayor Tamah Alley said.“Working alongside ORC, QLDC and central government to future proof our communities across infrastructure, housing and economic growth is a smart play.” In the coming months representatives from Otago Central Lakes will negotiate with central government around the contents of the Regional Deal.Final approval will rest with individual councils and cabinet.The government hopes to have the first Regional Deal signed by the end of the year, Chris said.PHOTOS: Wānaka App

The annual Rotary Club of Wānaka book and jigsaw sale, which will feature thousands of second hand books, will take place this weekend for three days (Friday July 4 to Sunday July 6).The book sale has for years attracted hundreds of people to the Lake Wānaka Centre in search of a great read at a bargain price. Rotary Club of Wānaka president Marie Fitchett said the public response to donating books and jigsaws over the past few weeks had been wonderful.“We have had thousands of books and a lot of jigsaws dropped off at Mitre 10 MEGA,” Marie said.“The Rotary team are busy sorting them and preparing for the sale.”The books have been categorised to make browsing easy and are priced from $3. Some newer books and special interest books are a little more expensive.“It’s a big job to categorise and price but well worth it when we see the response and the funds we can raise for the community,” Marie said.All funds raised will go to help the Rotary Club of Wānaka support worthwhile projects and causes.The book sale will take place over three days at the Lake Wānaka Centre from July 4-6. Opening hours are 10am-4.30pm each day.PHOTO: Wānaka App

Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) has shared its Newcomers Guide, which provides information and support to the district’s newest residents.QLDC welcoming communities coordinator Silvia Dancose said the guide was developed in collaboration with support service organisations, local education providers, businesses and newcomers.“Moving here is an exciting opportunity but can also be challenging,” Silvia said.“The guide provides newcomers with valuable local resources and services to help them adjust to life in their new home.”It provides information on how to find a place to live, work, access health care, connect with your community, learn English, manage money and finances, what to do in case of an emergency, and much more.“Having all this information accessible in one place will play a key role in helping those who choose this part of Aotearoa New Zealand to live, work or study to feel more welcome and connected, and enable them to foster a sense of community,” Silvia said.QLDC people and capability director Katie Church said one of the ways the guide could be shared is if businesses give it to new employees who are relocating to the district.“For many, moving to our district is often an opportunity to start a new job and build a new life; it’s important to help make the transition smoother and more successful by providing guidance and resources to newcomers and their families,” Katie said.“This is a great resource for employers to consider offering as part of their on-boarding process, especially for employees who are new to Aotearoa New Zealand and the region.”Printed copies have already been distributed to a range of locations including the QLDC offices, libraries, sport and recreation centres and other supporting organisations such as Citizens Advice Bureau, Community Link Upper Clutha, NZ Police, Salvation Army, Plunket and local schools.Developing the Newcomers Guide is an action from the three-year Welcoming Plan that was created by QLDC to support newcomers.QLDC aims to update it biannually. Find out more about the Newcomers Guide, read an online copy and provide feedback here.PHOTO: Supplied

Electricity company Aurora has apologised to residents in the Hāwea and Makarora areas who experienced a power cut on Monday evening (June 30).“Any time the power is out is inconvenient, but especially during the winter, in the evening and over the school holidays,” Aurora future network and operations general manager Matt Settle said.“We apologise … for the power cut last night and want to reassure people we will continue to investigate the causes of the faults and put in place any necessary corrective actions.”Matt said the company was still investigating the cause, but the initial investigation had identified several contributing factors.The power went out to 2,065 customers at 5:14pm on Monday with full power restored to all customers before 8.00pm, Matt said. “We made a decision to cut the power a second time, for safety reasons, some 30 minutes later and at the request of Fire and Emergency NZ, who were notified of a power line close to the ground on Domain Road in Hāwea,” he said.In the second supply interruption 1,882 customers were affected, with power restored in stages from 9:00pm. “The majority of customers were back on by 10:06pm and the remaining 361 restored at 12:37am. “... we are continuing to investigate the causes of these two faults.” Matt said Aurora has had “a spotlight” on the Hāwea and Makarora areas since late last year, when the company first noticed an increase in the number of unplanned power outages.There were 13 unplanned outages over the past year (including Monday night’s) that affected the wider Hāwea and Makarora areas.“The Hāwea township has experienced significant growth in recent years and our regional electricity development plan that will be released publicly later this year will set out the longer-term options for enhancing and developing the Upper Clutha network,” Matt said. The long and rural single electricity lines and feeders that supply Makarora will always be more vulnerable to unplanned supply interruptions than urban networks, which have secondary back feed options, he said.“This is the case for similar networks across the country with network configurations like those that supply rural Makarora. “It's worth noting that outages are caused by largely uncontrollable factors such as vegetation, wildlife and car impacts as well as more avoidable factors such as defective equipment,” he said. PHOTO: Supplied

Community members were able to have their first say on the future review of Wānaka Airport last week at two community drop-in sessions (Friday June 27 and Saturday June 28). Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) councillor and Wānaka Upper Clutha Community Board (WUCCB) member Lyal Cocks told the Wānaka App the sessions attracted a good number of people, with steady attendance throughout Friday’s session and a larger group on Saturday.“It was pretty intense,” Lyal said. “A few people said it was a bit overwhelming, but [Egis] did get a lot of input from the people there.”Egis gave guidance on how to respond to various prompts (including the questions ‘What does living, working and playing in this unique landscape mean to you? What role should the airport play in your future?’); there were a range of stations on different topics; and participants were able to write their own responses and notes. “[Egis is] trying to get a feel for the community and what they value,” Lyal said.WUCCB chair Simon Telfer said a lot of ideas were shared at the sessions, “including support for general aviation, increasing scheduled flights, allowing broader commercial activity at the airport and better preparing for natural disaster resilience”.  Lyal said feedback included a “big push for the [consultation] process to be independent”,There were also some “robust discussions” with the elected representatives present, he said.“There’s a lot of feeling out there, a lot of mistrust in the QLDC,” he said, adding that some people were suspicious about who was leading the process.“We’ve had to work really hard to push the CEO and council to get on with this,” Lyal said. “This is very strongly being led by the WUCCB because it is one of the priorities of the community.”Feedback included support for general aviation at the airport.Wānaka Stakeholders Group (WSG) chair Meg Taylor told the Wānaka App her group was "disappointed that the current effort to engage with the public is so limited”.“We realise the Egis program is part of an ongoing process but it is at this stage that Upper Clutha locals can make their views known before the consultants come up with firm scenarios,” she said.Meg said WSG is concerned that a “dual airport strategy”, the focus of QLDC and Queenstown Airport Commission’s (QAC) approach to Wānaka Airport in 2017-2019, is still on the table.In 2019 WSG took legal action against QLDC, saying various agreements between QLDC and QAC in relation to Wānaka Airport were unlawful. The action was upheld by a judicial review.Meg said WSG continues to push for Upper Clutha people to have an ongoing governance role in Wānaka Airport. Lyal said it was important to find out what all local groups want, and WSG is just one of those groups.Egis will now assess all the feedback and identify a range of scenarios for the airport, which they will bring for another round of engagement with the community - likely to take place in August.People can also have their say online for three more weeks until July 15.Simon said it's important for "everyone to jump online and influence the future of Wānaka Airport before this part of the process closes"."I'd love to see input from younger voices too as this planning will benefit both current and future generations."Wānaka Airport is owned by QLDC and operated by QAC under a management services agreement. In July 2024 QLDC signalled its intention to develop a long-term plan for Wānaka Airport, and went on to engage consultants Egis to undertake the review. It will look at the airport’s long-term role, its economic impact, and its integration into New Zealand’s aeronautical network. It will also set the vision, values, objectives and preferred outcomes for Wānaka Airport. PHOTOS: SuppliedRead more: Wānaka Airport review open for public feedback

Seven Wānaka organisations have received grants from the $180,000 pool in this year’s Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) Community Fund.QLDC community partnerships manager Marie Day said the district-wide fund focused on supporting initiatives that deliver strong wellbeing outcomes and reflect community needs.“Despite the relatively limited funding, we were delighted to be able to support an impressive range of projects and organisations that look to make a meaningful impact, enhancing the wellbeing and connectivity of our community,” Marie said.“From youth and environmental initiatives to arts, culture and social services, the 28 successful applicants represent the vibrant diversity of our district and the dedication of those working to make it better.”Local recipients included Abbeyfield Wānaka, Aspiring Beginnings Early Learning Centre, Hāwea Charitable Trust, OUT&about Wānaka, Te Kākano Aotearoa Trust, Upper Clutha Senior Citizens, and Predator Free Wānaka.Some of the successful recipients presented their submissions to QLDC in May, including Te Kākano Aotearoa Trust.Te Kākano manager Loran Verpillot told councillors in May the trust was seeking funding to hire contractors for maintenance at its plant nursery.Each year the trust grows approximately 5,000 native plants at the nursery before planting them on public land, but the maintenance associated with the nursery is costly.The work Te Kākano does “impacts the community at large and the environment”, Loran said.Among the other grant recipients are many that operate district-wide, including KnowYourStuffNZ, which provides free, discreet drug-testing services.Applications for the 2025-2026 Community Fund closed on April 30 and were assessed by a panel of elected members and staff, with the final decisions made at last week’s full council meeting.In the same meeting QLDC finalised the recipients for the Events Fund - another annual fund - with local events Challenge Wānaka Festival, Ripe, Warbirds Over Wānaka, Wānaka A&P Show, Aspiring Conversations, Wao Summit and the Pride Street Party all receiving funding.PHOTO: Te Kākano Aotearoa Trust

A power outage is affecting more than 2000 customers from Albert Town to Makarora, Aurora Energy says.The company said it has identified a fault that caused the outage and is currently repairing it.The outage occurred at 5.14pm today (Monday June 30) and Aurora is estimating power will be progressively restored to homes before 10.30pm tonight.For more click Power Outages.

The Upper Clutha Rams have secured a home semi-final in the Central Otago Premier Rugby Competition after a gritty 23-17 win over Alexandra in wet and slippery conditions on Saturday (June 29) at Molyneux Park in Alexandra.Rams head coach Alex Dickson said he was proud of the team’s effort.“The boys played really well, I’m very happy with it,” he said. “Our defence was amazing and our forwards played outstanding.”The Rams dominated the first half, controlling the ball well despite the difficult conditions. They scored two converted tries and a penalty to lead 17-3 at the halftime break.While the Rams controlled much of the opening half, the momentum shifted after the break. Alexandra mounted a strong comeback, applying sustained pressure and dominating territory and possession in the second spell.The Rams produced a resolute defensive performance and on the rare occasion they ventured into the Alexandra half, the accurate boot of halfback/first five Brodie Flannery ensured they came away with points.Brodie’s performance stood out in both defence and with the boot.“Brodie was amazing,” Alex said. “He’s playing really well.”Influential Rams' prop Ben Mckeich (right) may be in doubt for the finals due to a calf strain.The six-point win confirms the Rams’ place in the top two, guaranteeing a home semi-final on Saturday July 12.This Saturday (June 5) the Rams play Wakatipu in a top-of-the-table clash to determine who will finish top of the competition after the round robin. The match is also a defense of the coveted White Horse Cup which the Rams hold.The Rams’ coaching team and players will be hoping for another strong performance – and a passionate home crowd – as they look to maintain momentum into the finals.That match will be played in Wānaka this Saturday (July 5) at the Upper Clutha Rugby Club, with kick-off at 1pm.Rams' Points:Tries: Scott Cunningham, Henry SchikkerConversions: Brodie Flannery (2)Penalties: Brodie Flannery (3)In other matches:Maniototo 25-11 MatakanuiWakatipu 52-0 CromwellStandings:TABLE: TribePHOTOS: Wanaka App

Time is up for landlords who haven’t yet updated their rental properties to meet Healthy Homes standards.The standards became law in 2019, introducing minimum requirements for heating, insulation, ventilation, moisture ingress and drainage, and draught stopping in rental properties.While the standards have been introduced in stages, meaning some properties must already comply, from tomorrow (Tuesday July 1) all rental properties in the country must meet the standards and landlords can face penalties for non-compliance.Tenants who do not believe their homes meet the standards can contact Community Link for advice on how to take action.Community Link community services coordinator Kim Baker told the Wānaka App the organisation would normally direct a client to Community Law – Dunedin Community Law Centre or Tenancy Services. “We have a lawyer from [Community Law – Dunedin Community Law Centre] visit once a month and meet with clients - during her visit last week, I know she saw at least one person with a tenancy issue relating to Healthy Homes.”If a tenant takes their landlord to the Tenancy Tribunal, they can be fined up to $7,200 for each Healthy Homes breach.  Healthy Homes standards have already improved life at home for many renters.According to research by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD’s) released last year, between 2020 and 2024, the proportion of private renters who said their homes could be heated to a comfortable temperature year round increased from 50 percent to 77 percent.However, in the same four-year period, landlords’ commitment to updating their homes to meet the standards barely changed.In 2024, 45 percent were committed to meeting the standards; 31 percent were described as fluctuators, who had indicated they ‘might’ update to meet the standards; 17 percent had a lower level of commitment than the fluctuators; and seven percent were classed as ‘in denial’.Whether that commitment level has changed in the time since isn’t known, but some renters the Wānaka App spoke to ahead of the final compliance deadline said they had low expectations for improvements to make their homes warmer.Their concerns also pointed to issues highlighted by critics of the standards as well as by HUD research - that for many, fears of having their tenancy negatively affected stops them from complaining.One Wānaka renter said she had been told her rental met the standards, but she’d never been provided with a Healthy Homes completion checklist (a requirement of all new tenancies).“I never got a signed contract back from the landlord because I don’t think they could be bothered filling out all the Healthy Homes standards stuff,” she said.The same renter said water comes up from the ground and pools onto her bedroom when it rains.It’s one of a number of issues she’s hesitant to bring up with her landlord. The fear of bothering her landlord and potentially having to move outweighs the benefits of getting them to comply. “I’m scared they’ll tell me they need the house back in three months if I do [complain].”Another renter who said she had been told her home met Healthy Homes standards - yet she could feel the cold rising up from the carpet in her $650-per-week house. Her power bill last month was $630 - and she feels there is nothing she can do.Another has secured a warm rental but she said she had experienced many years of cold rentals in Wānaka and understood well the sentiment among renters.“You want to feel grateful for living here, you don’t want to complain…” she said. “People are here because they love the lifestyle but they’re going home to a place that’s cold.”A starting point for renters to check the level of compliance in their property:Is there a fixed heating source that can sufficiently heat my living room?Does each liveable space have a window or door opening to the outside that can be fixed open?Do my kitchen and bathroom both have extractor fans?Have unreasonable gaps or holes in windows, doors, floors and doors that cause draughts been filled?Renters can find the full checklist, as well as more information for how to bring up a non-compliance issue with their landlord, here.PHOTO: Supplied

Local district councillors have mixed views on the need for an allowance to cover home security for elected representatives, which has been announced by the Local Government Commission (LGNZ).LGNZ says the introduction of an allowance to cover home security will provide added assurance for candidates heading into this year’s local elections in October.The Remuneration Authority will introduce an allowance of up to $4,500 to cover elected members installing and monitoring a security system at home (the same figure members of parliament receive), plus $1,000 annually for maintenance.The allowance will come into effect after the 2025 local elections.LGNZ chief executive Susan Freeman-Greene said LGNZ has been advocating for new protections like the allowance given a significant increase in abuse, harassment and threatening behaviour.“We provided information to the Remuneration Authority to support this decision, and we’re pleased the government is taking the issue of protecting elected members seriously,” she said.“The rise of fringe groups, anonymity of online forums and polarising coverage is feeding increasing abuse of people elected to both central and local government. As well as online threats, elected members have been physically threatened or confronted.”Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) councillor Barry Bruce told the Wānaka App that although he has had “some robust conversations with people” he has never considered the need for a security system.“Hopefully this doesn't change,” he said. “I must also note that I prefer face to face conversations rather than via the social media.”Councillor Lyal Cocks said if he is re-elected in October he would not be using a security fund.“I would rather see this funding directed to other more practical initiatives such as subsidising installation of solar systems in households.”Councillor Cody Tucker said he had not had any security issues but was aware of one QLDC councillor who had a person “randomly show up to his house unannounced”.Central Otago District Council has already paid for a member to install a camera at their home address, following an obnoxious campaign that included items being left in their letterbox.Susan said it will remain up to individual councils to decide whether their elected members receive the support. "We need consistency across the country, because every elected member deserves to know that they will be safe when they’re going about their job.” PHOTOS: Supplied

Wastebusters is hosting a free community event tomorrow (Tuesday July 1) to encourage people to take part in Plastic Free July this year.More than 100 million people all across the world take part in Plastic Free July. Wastebusters is gearing up to support locals to take on the challenge, Wastebusters staffer Nicola Cross said.The launch event promises to be an evening of inspiration to get your challenge off to a great start whether you choose to reuse, swap out single-use plastics or identify your ‘problems plastics’, Nicola said.It will feature guest speakers from SUCFree (single use cup free) Wānaka and WAI Wānaka, along with Nicola, who will share simple, practical ideas to help people get started and feel confident making changes that stick.“This isn’t about being perfect or cutting out every piece of plastic,” Nicola said. “It’s about noticing the things we use once and throw away, and seeing where we can make a shift.“Maybe that’s swapping out one item, like plastic wrap or takeaway cups. Maybe it’s just letting your veggies roll free in the trolley. It all counts.”Anyone who signs up to the challenge will receive regular tips, support and inspiration throughout the month from Wastebusters.Wastebusters will also host a wrap event to celebrate and share the challenges and success of taking part in Plastic Free July.Whether you're brand new to the idea or already on your plastic-free path, the challenge is open to all, Nicola said.“ Plastic Free July is about local action creating global impact. And when you do it with others, it’s way more fun.” Tomorrow’s Plastic Free July event will take place at the Lake Wānaka Centre from 6pm-8pm.While it is free to attend, spaces are limited, and registration is essential.PHOTO: Wastebusters

Update June 29 12pm: Police have advised that Aiden has been located safe and well. The police would like to thank the wider Wānaka community for its assistance in this matter.Earlier:Police are continuing to appeal for information regarding missing teenager Aiden.When reported missing (on Thursday June 26), Aiden had been last seen near Edna Street, Lake Hāwea, in a vehicle which has since been located.While police have found the vehicle, they continue to make enquiries to locate Aiden.Police’s initial enquiries suggest Aiden may have been in the Northlake area in Wānaka.Police and Aiden’s family have concerns for his wellbeing and would like to see him return home.If anyone has seen Aiden or has information regarding his wellbeing, they should contact 111, and use the reference number 250626/5630.People can also provide information via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.PHOTO: Supplied

Wastebusters is asking the community to support its goal of expanding its site by making a submission on the draft Waste Management and Minimisation Plan (WMMP) before Monday (June 30).The non-profit community enterprise was set up in 2000 when the Wānaka population was around 4,000 people but is now struggling to keep up with the demand for its reduce, reuse and recycle services on its current footprint.“Over the 25 years that Wastebusters has operated from the same site on Ballantyne Road the population of the Wānaka-Upper Clutha area has grown dramatically,” Wastebusters programme manager Aviette Musin said.“Wastebusters exists to keep resources in circulation and out of landfill but with more households, visitors and building projects we need to expand our site to cope with the increases. “We have run out of space to take all of the items that the community would like to donate to us and as a result quality reusable and recyclable products are ending up in landfill.”She said Wastebusters urgently requires additional land to expand the site and it is currently in discussions with Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC), the landowner, to secure it.“Your voice is vital to ensure Wastebusters can significantly expand and continue to grow its impact for our district’s zero waste future,” Aviette said.“Please make your submission today, directly asking QLDC for more land for Wastebusters, and help us build a bigger, better circular economy and environment hub for everyone.”Find the draft WWMP webpage and submission information here.PHOTO: Wastebusters

As snowfall increases across the country and avalanche activity is reported in the South Island, the NZ Mountain Safety Council (MSC) is urging backcountry alpine adventurers to check the avalanche forecast before a trip. New Zealand's official avalanche forecasting service, the NZ Avalanche Advisory (NZAA), provided by MSC, will be forecasting across all 13 alpine regions it monitors from yesterday (Friday June 27). Avalanche activity has been reported in most regions via the NZAA’s public observations platform, with one avalanche involving a skier in Arthur’s Pass. “Reports of avalanches in the south are an important reminder for anyone planning a trip into the alpine backcountry to check the avalanche forecast,” MSC chief executive Mike Daisley said. “Understanding the forecast, including the danger rating, and applying it to your plans is one of the most critical skills when heading into the backcountry.” The NZAA gives backcountry users, such as skiers, snowboarders, mountaineers, trampers and hunters, vital information so they can plan their trip and make safe decisions in avalanche terrain. This includes the avalanche danger rating and any anticipated avalanche problems. “Monitoring conditions throughout a trip is also crucial for your safety," Mike said. “Conditions can change extremely fast in the alpine environment, so keeping a critical eye on the weather and snowpack for signs of instability is imperative. This ensures you can make informed decisions based on the current conditions.” MSC’s new 23-part avalanche safety video series, Avalanche Tips and Terms: From the forecast to the field, covers essential knowledge to help navigate New Zealand’s dynamic and often challenging alpine terrain. Before considering an alpine backcountry trip, MSC advises getting avalanche training from a recognised provider and having rescue gear, along with the knowledge of how to use it. “Our goal is to support people to get out with their mates and enjoy the backcountry safely this winter. That means getting the skills and gear, planning thoroughly, and checking the avalanche forecast so you can make informed decisions.”MSC’s top tips for avalanche safety:Watch the Avalanche Tips and Terms video seriesAttend an official avalanche training courseCheck, discuss and understand the NZAA avalanche forecast for your area.Assess the conditions throughout your trip and be prepared to turn around.Carry avalanche rescue equipment (transceiver, probe and shovel) and know how to use them.PHOTO: Supplied

Four Queenstown Lakes’ tourism and hospitality businesses will go through a technology bootcamp over the next six months to streamline their operations and inspire others to do the same. Wānaka Lavender Farm, Absoloot Hostel, Atlas Beer Café and Kinross Winery will be supported by local technology suppliers to put new software solutions in place.The Digital Catalyst project was launched by the Economic Futures team at Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) and had received more than 40 applicants. QLDC destination management advisor James Mulcahy said the project will create “real-world examples” that other tourism and hospitality operators can benefit from. “While it’s encouraging that 87 percent of applicants plan to use AI in the next year, many mentioned they’re nervous about how to go about implementing new technology,” he said. “Using these four businesses as case studies will help demystify technology and demonstrate how to get the best from it”. Each business will work with either Queenstown IT, Both Brains, or HeadQuarters to assess their current systems and add technology that will make the biggest difference. Both Brains general manager Jenni Powell said the company is looking forward to helping.  “At Both Brains, we believe technology should feel like a helping hand, not a hurdle,” she said.“The Digital Catalyst project is a brilliant opportunity to show how even small digital tweaks can unlock big wins - whether that’s saving time, reducing stress, or simply making it easier to run a great business.” “We’re excited to support these local businesses and help them thrive.”Lessons and experiences from the bootcamp will be shared with the district’s broader sector and used to help inform future business capability initiatives, James said. PHOTO: Wānaka Lavender Farm

Queenstown Lakes District Council has devised a new plan to manage freedom campers.The council intends to set aside 158 carparks across 14 sites for certified self-contained motor vehicles to use for free.That includes 52 carparks across six sites in Queenstown, 50 carparks at a site in Kingston, 28 carparks at three sites in Wānaka, 15 carparks at a site in Hāwea, and other smaller sites in Arrowtown, Lake Hayes and Gibbston.Under the draft bylaw - adopted by councillors on Thursday afternoon to go out for public consultation - campers would be limited to stays of two nights within a 30-day period and would not be able to stay in tents or temporary structures.Freedom camping would be allowed on some rural roads, but it would have to be five metres from the edge of the road, on gravel or sealed surfaces.The council's old 2021 bylaw was quashed by the High Court last year after the Motor Caravan Association sought a judicial review.The High Court found that the bylaw was "tainted" because it tried to ban camping based on amenity values like views and noise, which wasn't consistent with the Freedom Camping Act 2011.Councillor Quentin Smith was the only one around the table on Thursday who did not support the new plan.He said he was not satisfied the bylaw "equally spread the pain across the district."While places like Arrowtown only had five freedom camping spots, the Upper Clutha area was bearing a heavier burden, he said.This summer, in the absence of restrictions, freedom campers arrived in Queenstown in force. PHOTO: RNZ / Katie ToddIn addition to the council's proposed freedom camping sites, freedom camping was already permitted at the Luggate Red Bridge reserve between Cromwell and Wānaka due to a special Ministerial exemption to the ban on camping in the Reserves Act.Other councillors also expressed reservations about the plan before voting to put it to the public.Councillor Esther Whitehead said it was "massively complex", and she felt the public would say the same.Councillor Craig Ferguson questioned whether the proposal was about freedom camping or "free parking at the expense of residents.""Let's get it out for the community to have their say," he said.Councillor Matt Wong queried if the 158 spaces would be enough to meet camper demand - but policy manager Carrie Williams said it was hard to predict what freedom camper numbers would look like in the coming season."We're not here to respond to all demands of all freedom camping. We're here to provide an element to the response... to provide for some freedom camping," she said.Public consultation on the new bylaw will run from 8 July to 8 August, and is meant to come into force before summer.Separate from the bylaw, the council planned to investigate other options for low-cost and freedom camping in the Queenstown Lakes District as part of its Responsible Camping Strategy.This summer, in the absence of restrictions, freedom campers arrived in Queenstown in force.Some locals reported growing frustrations over rubbish, overcrowded carparks, late-night partying and people urinating in bushes.The council banned overnight parking on two streets where residents claimed that dozens of campervans were staying every night.

Timeframe obligations for the Santana Minerals fast-track application will be challenging to meet, the Central Otago District Council (CODC) says.Staff have started to review comprehensive reports on the proposed Santana Minerals gold mine, and documents would be shared with councillors as they became available, the meeting was told on Wednesday (June 25).At a previous meeting, council approved both mayor Tamah Alley and Cromwell-based councillor Sarah Brown to review and approve council's comments in the 'key issues report.'CODC planning and infrastructure group manager Louise van der Voort told the meeting this week, that delegating staff to the project would provide extra time to complete and review the report.Council has confirmed the consent from Santana would be lodged this week, and council staff were in the process of engaging consultants and refining the scope of work.“The applicant’s draft reports are starting to come through as part of consultation and there is already a significant volume of material which needs to be read and understood,” Louise's report said.“It has become evident that once the application is lodged, it will be challenging for council to meet its obligations under the Fast Track Approvals Act in the 20 days provided, being: the review of the application, distribution to consultants with instructions, completion and review of consultants’ reports and preparation and approval of the key issues report.“The key issues report will largely be based on the technical evidence of consultants relating the effects of the proposal, and proposed conditions.”The key issues report was much like an s42a report that offered a recommendation to the hearings panel on whether the project should be approved or not.Council recently recommended that deputy mayor Neil Gillespie sit on the hearings panel for the fast-track proposal, but that was still yet to be decided.Santana Minerals said it was continuing to advance its Bendigo-Ophir Gold Project, with a strong focus on environmental stewardship, community engagement, and responsible development.In a press release the company said while the Fast Track Act aimed to accelerate decision-making, it did not override the requirements of the Resource Management Act or other applicable legislation. “The collective work undertaken to support the application represents one of the most intensive and comprehensive studies ever conducted on the Dunstan Mountains.”Recognised as the most significant single gold discovery in New Zealand in the past 40 years, the development would include an open pit ultimately 1,000m long, 850 metres wide and 200 metres deep, and an underground mining operation to access deeper extensions of the deposit. A key consideration of the project design was the processing plant, which would be located in the lower Shepherds Valley. Environmental considerations remained central to project planning, the company said.“While the majority of the environmental assessments have been completed, several key ecological reports are in progress, as outlined in Santana Minerals’ 13 June ASX update. Design considerations are being made to ensure that environmental effects are avoided, mitigated, compensated, or offset.” Due to surrounding landforms, the site is expected to have low visibility. A comprehensive visual simulation will be included in the consent application to provide clarity on the project’s visual footprint. Since September 2024, Santana has hosted regular community drop-in sessions, which will continue throughout 2025.“We are committed to delivering a project that brings long-term benefits to the region while respecting the land and the values of our local communities,” Santana chief executive Damian Spring said.“For many of our team this is our home too, and our focus is on listening, refining, and working together to build a project that Central Otago can be proud of for generations to come.”

Upper Clutha residents are being encouraged to book to attend a free rural health roadshow in Wānaka next week (Tuesday July 1).The roadshow, which is being organised by the Ministry of Health, will include a Q&A session with associate health minister Matt Doocey. The event will also be attended by Mark Patterson, minister for rural communities.Health Action Wānaka (HAW), the group formed to advocate for improved access to health services in the Upper Clutha, says it hopes to pack out the Lake Wānaka Centre for the event “to show the minister just how important it is to our community that we have equitable access to healthcare”.Wānaka Upper Clutha Community Board chair Simon Telfer told the Wānaka App the community owes it to HAW “to show up in numbers in support of their mahi”. Members of Health Action Wānaka’s steering group are hoping for a large turnout for the event next Tuesday. PHOTO: Supplied“As a group of volunteers they have put in countless hours to advance the health needs of the Upper Clutha. This event will continue the momentum they have created,” he said.Following a packed town hall meeting on health in March last year, Simon said, a large turnout at Tuesday’s event “will continue to send a clear message to the government and to health officials that the health inequities for those living in Wānaka and surrounds can not continue”.  “Decisionmakers need to see that we are real people with real challenges and I hope the question and answer session will get that message across loud and clear,” he said.Queenstown Lakes District Council deputy mayor Quentin Smith said locals don’t often get the chance to directly engage with government ministers so the roadshow provides a useful opportunity to support the call for better access to health services.  “I fully support the work of the HAW to advocate for a strategic approach to healthcare in our community and the appropriate investments of government in services and facilities to service our community,” he said.“I expect it will be very well attended and [am] hopeful but not confident of hearing some solutions to our well documented challenges.”The event will take place on Tuesday (July 1) from 12pm-1.30pm at the Lake Wānaka Centre.Interested locals must register with the Ministry of Health ([email protected]) to attend the free roadshow, to ensure there is space for everyone. More than 250 locals have already registered, which led the ministry to move the location from the Wānaka Community Hub to the larger Lake Wānaka Centre.Prior to the community Q&A event, HAW’s Trish Fraser will attend a private meeting with the ministers, joined by members of the youth mental health services NGO ADL.Earlier the same morning four HAW members will also meet with health minister Simeon Brown in Auckland. This meeting follows the release of HAW’s community health needs report in April, which revealed significant healthcare deficits, systemic barriers, and a lack of strategic planning in one of the fastest-growing communities in the country.Read more: Ministerial meetings for health lobby group