Tickets are now on sale for Ripe - The Wānaka Wine & Food Festival 2026, which will return to Glendhu Bay on Saturday, March 21 next year to celebrate its fifth birthday.The festival will again showcase Central Otago’s finest wine, food and live music, with legendary New Zealand musician Sir Dave Dobbyn confirmed as the headline act.Festival director Nathan White said strong pre-sales showed how much people value the Ripe experience.“We’ve always aimed to create something truly special for Wānaka - a celebration of local food, wine and music in one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand,” he said. “The response this year has been phenomenal, and we’re excited to welcome everyone back for what will be our biggest Ripe yet.”Returning for 2026 is the Ripe Masterclass series, featuring three live demonstrations: Peta Mathias will prepare a French-inspired dish matched with Mora Sparkling Rosé and discuss her new book ‘It’s Been Six Months Since My Last Confession’; Domaine Thomson Wines will host a rare ‘vertical tasting’; and Angelo Georgalli will present a wild food cooking session inspired by his Fish + Game cookbook.New for 2026 are lake cruise arrivals and luxury on-site glamping, allowing guests to travel in style and stay close to the action.Ripe 2026 will feature 25 Central Otago wineries, local craft beers from Rhyme and Reason, cocktails by Scapegrace Distilling Co., and supporting acts The Relatives, The Eastern and Ryan Caldwell.The event runs from 11am–6pm on Saturday, March 21, at Glendhu Bay. Tickets are available here.Read more: Sir Dave Dobbyn to headline Ripe 2026PHOTO: Supplied

If you have a teen about to sit exams, share this with them - it’s full of practical, science-based tips to make studying less stressful and more effective.If you’ve ever sat down to study and found yourself reorganising your desk, making snacks, or suddenly very interested in the family cat, you’re not alone. Studying well isn’t about grinding for hours; it’s about understanding how your brain works and using that to your advantage.In this short video, Kim Tay from The Wellbeing Works shares 11 practical, science-backed study tips to help students focus, remember more, and feel less stressed. From the “five-minute rule” that beats procrastination to clever memory hacks using movement and colour, these tools are designed to make studying smarter — not harder.Watch the video and download the free PDF guide to keep these tips handy during exam time.Here are the links mentioned in the video:Watch Ali Abdaal on the Retrospective Revision Timetable here Retrospective Revision TimetableAnd his videos on Active Recall and Spaced Repetition:Active Recall ExplainedSpaced Repetition Kim Tay is the founder of The Wellbeing Works and runs science-based workshops that build mental skills for wellbeing and high performance at home, at school and at work. For more bite-sized, no fluff insights, sign up for her (very occasional, no-spam) newsletter here.Read Kim’s other posts here:The Surprising Power of EmotionsWhy Your Teen Might Be Stuck on the Negative – and What Helps!Stuck in a Mood? How to Shift ItTaming the Inner Critic (self-talk)

Wānaka triathlete Braden Currie has announced his retirement from professional Ironman racing after 16 years competing at the highest level of endurance sport.The announcement marks the end of an era for one of New Zealand’s most successful multisport and Ironman athletes.“I’m stoked to be able to announce my retirement from Ironman racing,” Braden said.“It’s been an incredible journey - 16 years of racing the best athletes in the world on the biggest stages. I’ve achieved more than I ever believed possible and I’m proud of what we’ve been able to do as a family, a team, and a community.”From his debut Ironman victory in Taupō to his 2022 Ironman World Championship podium in Utah, Braden’s career has been defined by determination, passion, and consistency at the top of world endurance sport.“Ironman has been my life for over a decade,” he said. “I’ve loved the challenge, but it feels like the right time to stop chasing finish lines and start focusing on other goals in life.”Braden said his next chapter will focus on family, community and adventure, while staying involved in the endurance and adventure sport scene.He finishes his professional Ironman career with 51 wins and 72 podiums from 92 events worldwide.Career highlightsTwo-time Ironman New Zealand champion, including a commanding win in 2021 (7:57:13)Three-time Ironman Asia-Pacific champion (Cairns): 2018 (course record 7:54:58), 2019, and 2023 (course best)Ironman World Championship podium (St George, 2022): 3rd in 7:54:19 behind Kristian Blummenfelt and Lionel SandersFour-time Coast to Coast Longest Day champion, underlining multisport roots and all-terrain versatility.PHOTO: Luke O’Shea

Free blood testing is being rolled out for nearly 24,000 people living in Wānaka and Te Anau - a move local health advocates are calling “a really big win” for rural healthcare access.A spokesperson for Health Action Wānaka (HAW), which has been campaigning for publicly funded blood collection, said the group was thrilled the “clear inequity in healthcare delivery has been addressed.”Health minister Simeon Brown said free blood testing would be in place from the start of November, giving more rural New Zealanders access to healthcare closer to home. “The rollout means that 4,400 people in Te Anau and 19,350 people in Wānaka [Upper Clutha] can now access blood testing free of charge at their local GP,” he said. Until this point patients in both Wānaka and Te Anau have had to travel over an hour to reach a free collection centre or pay a co-payment at their local GP.“While most New Zealanders have access to free blood tests, some rural communities in the South Island still have to pay because there are no local blood collection centres,” the health minister said. Removing the cost barrier would help address a long-standing inequity between rural and urban areas, associate health minister Matt Doocey said. “This initiative will lead to earlier and more timely diagnoses for people who have previously delayed testing due to travel or cost,” he said. “When I visited Wānaka as part of the Rural Health Roadshow, locals consistently raised concerns about having to pay for blood tests. He also singled out HAW for its advocacy for a local blood collection service.“At our meetings with ministers Brown and Doocey in July, we presented three ‘quick wins’ that we wanted to see implemented,” the HAW spokesperson told the Wānaka App. “The delivery of a publicly funded blood collection service was one of those quick wins.”“We proposed that Health New Zealand should fund the medical practices to deliver blood collection services rather than passing the cost on to the patient, and this is what has happened.”The HAW spokesperson said it had asked the community what changes to healthcare delivery would make the most difference, and 71.2 percent of respondents indicated that free blood collection would significantly improve their access to healthcare. While the free blood testing is a “really good short-term solution”, HAW said in the long term it is advocating for “a walk-in blood collection in Wānaka, and longer phlebotomy hours so people don’t have to wait so long to get blood collected, and to ensure people can get appointments at the times, and on the days, they need them”.  Waitaki MP Miles Anderson said the free blood testing was fantastic news for the people of the Upper Clutha.  “Our local public health practitioners have been calling for this service, so it is great to see the government and Health NZ respond to the need in our growing community,” he said.“Our Otago Central Lakes health planning group has been pushing towards outcomes like this, and I look forward to Health New Zealand completing their clinical services planning for our area so we can have an even broader view of potential public health solutions for southern communities.”Across Wānaka’s three medical centres, around 20,000 blood tests are carried out each year.PHOTO: Wānaka App

Workplaces are dynamic environments, and sometimes things can go wrong. When they do, New Zealand employment law provides a pathway to resolve these disputes, known as the personal grievance process.Understanding how this works is important for both employees and employers, as it ensures workplaces operate fairly and allows for disputes to be resolved constructively.In Central Otago, where many businesses are small and seasonal work is common, knowing your rights and obligations can make a big difference. A well-managed process can protect legal rights and help to maintain strong workplace relationships.What Is a Personal Grievance?A personal grievance is a formal complaint raised by an employee, or an ex-employee if they believe they’ve been treated unfairly at work. They exist to ensure fairness and accountability in employment relationships.Common grounds for a personal grievance include:Unjustified dismissal – being fired without a valid reason or fair processUnjustified disadvantage – negative changes to work conditions without justificationDiscrimination or harassment – including racial or sexual harassmentEmployees must raise a grievance within 90 days of the incident (or 12 months for sexual harassment claims). The process usually starts with a written complaint to the employer, followed by mediation if needed, and as a last resort claims to the EmploymentRelations Authority or the Employment Court.Unjustified DismissalThis occurs when an employer:Lacks a valid reason for dismissal, orFails to follow a fair processValid reasons can include serious misconduct, restructuring, or bullying. Even with a good reason, the dismissal may still be unjustified if the process wasn’t fair.Unjustified DisadvantageThis happens when an employer’s actions negatively affect an employee’s work conditions without justification. Examples include:Removing responsibilities without explanationMaking changes that hinder job performanceIssuing an unjustified warningFor Employees: Know Your RightsIf you believe you’ve been treated unfairly you should seek legal advice to help you raise the issue with your employer. Ideally this should be in writing, be clear about what happened, how it affected you, and the resolution that you seek.If the issue isn’t resolved, you can seek free mediation through the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment (MBIE). In the event that a mediation fails, the matter can then be escalated to the Employment Relations Authority (ERA).Potential remedies can include compensation for lost wages or emotional harm, reinstatement, and rectifying the disadvantage.For Employers: Responding Fairly and LegallyAs an employer, receiving a personally grievance can be challenging. It is important to continue to act in good faith, and engage in honest, open and constructive communications with your employee. Failure to do so can escalate disputes as well as damage confidence and trust. As an employer it is important to:Acknowledge the grievanceReview the complaint thoroughlyFollow a fair process and allow the employee to respondSeek legal advice How to Avoid GrievancesEmployers:Keep clear employment agreementsDocument decisions and processesCommunicate openly and earlyEmployees:Raise concerns promptlyKeep written recordsSeek advice before escalatingThe Cost of Getting it WrongPersonal grievances can be expensive and stressful for both sides. Employers may face compensation orders for lost wages and emotional harm, legal costs, and reputational damage. While employees can experience financial hardship during disputes, as well as emotional strain and uncertainty. Seeking legal advice and an early resolution through open communication and mediation can often save time and relationships.Why This Matters LocallyIn Central Otago, where many businesses are small and there is a strong sense of community, handling employment issues with care and sensitivity is especially important. A well-managed personal grievance process not only protects legal rights but it also helps to preserve relationships and work place culture.How Checketts McKay Can HelpAt Checketts McKay, we assist both employers and employees with practical and timely advice. Whether you need help drafting employment agreements, raising a grievance, or navigating mediation our employment team can guide you through the process. We aim to resolve issues early and constructively, reducing the stress and cost for everyone involved. 17 Dunmore Street, Wānaka

Wānaka councillor Quentin Smith has been reappointed deputy mayor during yesterday’s (Thursday October 30) inaugural meeting of the new Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC).Quentin, who also served as deputy mayor in the previous term, was selected by new mayor John Glover, who said the decision was a pragmatic one: “If I was run over by a bus on Frankton Road, who would be able to fill that role ably and immediately?”He was also appointed by the mayor to represent QLDC as a committee member for the Otago Central Lakes Regional Deal — a multi-council initiative working to secure an agreement with central government to help address infrastructure needs and support sustainable growth.Earlier in the meeting Quentin was sworn in alongside other Wānaka-Upper Clutha ward councillors Cody Tucker (who was also a councillor in the last term, and narrowly beat Yeverley McCarthy to be reelected) and newcomer Nicola King.Niki Gladding, who was elected to the Wānaka-Upper Clutha ward this term after serving the Queenstown-Whakatipu ward in the previous term, was unable to attend the meeting and will be sworn in at the first Wānaka-Upper Clutha Community Board meeting, QLDC chief executive Mike Theelen said.Councillors for the district's two other wards - including Heath Copland, Melissa White, Samuel ‘Q’ Belk, Matt Wong, Gavin Bartlett, Stephen Brent and Jon Mitchell - were also sworn in, as was the new mayor.Mike described the meeting as both “joyous” and “solemn” given its significance.“We all, and councillors in particular, are guardians of this place and these peoples: the history of this place, the today of this place, and the future of this place rests in your hands collectively.”The “unique” district faces significant challenges arising from its growing population and ever-increasing popularity as a visitor destination, he said.“These challenges are placed before this group of people for the next three years.”PHOTO: Still Vision Photography

Storm damage to Wānaka’s ageing lakefront jetty could accelerate plans for a more ambitious replacement.The town-centre jetty is still partially submerged after this week’s severe weather, and it appears to be badly damaged, though the full extent of this will not be clear until the lake level drops.RMM Landscape Architects unveiled concept designs for a new jetty earlier this year, aiming to inspire discussion about a new, fit-for-purpose replacement - and the storm has brought that conversation back into focus.Deputy mayor Quentin Smith, who advocated for a new jetty when the concept designs were made public, said this week he would “welcome and encourage” a new, more fitting jetty.“Our amazing lakefront deserves a suitable replacement,” he said. “It is a pivotal connection to the lake for both visitors and locals alike.”The damage reinforces the fact that the existing jetty is “well and truly end of life”, he told the Wānaka App.“While I expect it will be patched back together, we will have to look towards a replacement sooner than anticipated.”The RMM designs explored four possibilities: a ‘traditional heritage’ design based on a wharf; a toki (Māori adze) inspired design; a design inspired by the concept of Kotahitanga (unity); and a design inspired by the huruhuru (feather) and korowai (cloak), intertwined with the symbolism of the kea feather.One of RMM Landscape Architects’ concept designs for a new Wānaka jetty. IMAGE: SuppliedEach concept considered improved access for swimming, boat mooring, and social activity, with the proposed site slightly west of the current jetty to better align with Helwick Street.See also: Creative designs for ‘long overdue’ new jettyAt the time Quentin said while a new jetty wasn’t an official council plan, the concept strongly aligned with several strategic pieces of council work already in play: the Lakefront Development Plan, the independent Heart of Wānaka visioning work, and the ongoing review of waterway access and facility needs.A Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) spokesperson said the council was waiting for the lake to recede before it makes a preliminary assessment on the condition of the jetty. “After that we expect to conduct an engineering assessment to confirm the extent of any damage and to help guide next steps,” the spokesperson said.

Te Kura o Tititea Mount Aspiring College (MAC) came together last night (Wednesday October 29) to celebrate the service, achievements, and spirit of its senior students at the 2025 Senior Awards ceremony.Taking out top honours were Oskar Sharpe, who was named Dux of the college for academic excellence of the highest order; Ryan Stembridge, who was named Proxime Accessit for academic excellence; and Lucy Radford, who was named Best All-Round Student for 2025.Also announced at the event were the college’s new head students for 2026, who are: Mikayla Botting, Sophia Menlove, Noah Moody and Jack Sides.Principal Nicola Jacobsen said the evening was a special opportunity to reflect on the journeys of the college’s senior students - and the many ways they have contributed to the school community.“It’s been such a privilege to witness the learning journey of our senior graduates and the many different academic, co-curricular and vocational pathways they’ve followed,” she said.(L-R) Best All-Round Student Year 13 Mila Culpitt, Best All-Round Student Overall Lucy Radford and Best All-Round Student Year 13 Ryan Enoka.“The diverse pathways we offer provide every student with an opportunity to explore their interests, pursue their academic goals, and grow into well-rounded individuals.”“We pride ourselves on being a place for all students to grow and be proud of who they are, and our graduating seniors of 2025 can certainly be very proud of everything they’ve achieved.She thanked families, whānau, staff and the local community for their support of the students, as well as those who sponsored awards and scholarships.The ceremony included performances from the college leavers’ band, the MAC orchestra, the jazz combo, the college choir, an original song performed by band ‘Superficial’, and a haka pōwhiri performed by Te Mākahi o Tititea (MAC’s kapa haka group).A wide range of awards recognising excellence across academics, arts, culture, sport and more were also presented during the evening.See the full list of awards recipients below.Academic awardsYear 11Academic Honour Roll: Milo Adams, Chanel Castillejos, Emily Hunt, Hailey Beacham, Zoe Waddington, Cameron Clarke, Phoebe Cervelli, Ben Soper, Hannah Thomas, Lily Garrett, Amos Wells.Highest achievement: Phoebe Cervelli (history, art painting and level 2 physics and level 2 calculus), Milo Adams (English, woodwork, spatial and product design and level 2 mechanical engineering), Tim Heiler (geography), Lily Garrett (economics and business and Spanish), Vinnie Vickers (drama), Jayden Robertson (music), Thomas Jurczyluk (physical education), Zoe Waddington (te reo Māori), CameronClarke (science), Scott Milne (outdoor pursuits), Nieve McRae (food and nutrition), Tyson McGahan (agriculture), Sam Irvine (mechanical engineering), Amos Wells (computer studies), Winifred McAllister Brown (art design).High achievement: Olivia Coad (level 2 physics and level 2 calculus), Phoebe Cervelli (physical education and English), Charlie Gibson (outdoor pursuits), Michael McConnell (mechanical engineering), Milo Adams, Tim Heiler, Amos Wells (mathematics and science), Taylor Jennings (woodwork), Emily Hunt (science), Hailey Beacham (mathematics), Cameron Clarke (economics and business and mathematics), Lottie King, Sam Irvine, Sophia Pullar (English), Lily Garrett (food and nutrition)Year 12Academic Honour Roll: Mikayla Botting, Denali Emmitt, Rhian Telfer, Nico Pettit, Connor Eley, Susannah West, Hinato Watanabe, Tommy Cotter, Phoebe Laker, Jack Sides, Noah Moody.Highest achievement: Mikayla Botting (drama, psychology, English and level 3 calculus), Jack Sides (physical education and history), Connor Eley (level 3 physics), Belinda Hope (geography), Caleb Heyes (financial capability), Niamh Groenen (photography), Ryan Keenan (agriculture), Toby Mills (mathematics and statistics), Jack Stanley (pathways), Rhian Telfer (economics), Dom Plimmer (business), Bruce Raffills (tourism), Georgia Davies (art design), Alianna Hay (outdoor pursuits and te reo Māori), Roko Treadwell-Burke (spatial and product design), Hugo Van Maren (computer studies), Keira Beston (food and nutrition), Tommy Cotter (music), Zoe Gumpatzes (painting), William Noble-Kirkbride (woodwork), Kasey Brooks (biology), Maxene Ursua (Spanish), Alex Kettle (chemistry).High achievement: Jack Sides (level 3 physics and level 3 calculus), Francesca Peters (biology), Jack Stanley (mechanical engineering), Rhian Telfer (psychology), Dom Plimmer (physical education), Caroline Smith, Ruby Smith, Susannah West (English), Max Henley, Madi Lovelock (mathematics and statistics), Sam Harper (physical education), Noah Moody (chemistry), Dan Russell (outdoor pursuits), Alex Kettle (physics).Year 13Academic Honour Roll: Abby Jago, Ryan Stembridge, Alex Coupland, Oskar Sharpe, Zoe Giles, Cholula Brown, Lili Kaler, Sam Smith, Grace Thomas, Tanyn Wood.Highest Achievement: Sam Wilson (music technology), Xander Maguire (English), Abby Jago (food and nutrition), Amber Leslie (visual art design), Ania-Kanu Saklani (drama), Keira Follows (psychology), Minka Brooks (event and entertainment technologies), Finn Jones (outdoor pursuits and physical education), Ayla Howard (visual art photography), Cody Labes (woodwork), Lucy Radford (mathematics and statistics), Oskar Sharpe (computer studies), Ryan Stembridge (spatial and product design), Barnes Metcalfe (economics), Leah Polk (financial capability), Maria Revelant (statistics), Ruby Norman (business and enterprise), Ryan Enoka (te reo Māori), Sam Soper (materials technology), Zara Weatherly (music), Ruby Keene (Spanish), Cholula Brown (geography), Lucy Liddell (chemistry), Amelia Latchford (biology), Bella Edwards (tourism), Josie O'Brien (visual art painting), Kiana Babbington (gateway), Isaiah Chin-Nyika (academic English), Grace Thomas (history).High achievement: Ben Quarrie, Isaac Quarrie (outdoor pursuits), Lola Rodger, Neve Dunlop (English), Minka Brooks (biology), Charlie Blampied (physics), Chloe Field (business and enterprise), Aria Winter (outdoor pursuits), Cholula Brown (psychology), Sophie Sullivan (chemistry), Tanyn Wood (academic English and statistics), Isaiah Chin-Nyika (physical education), Catty David (mathematics and statistics).Special academic awardsConnor Eley, Isaac Lam (science and technology scholarships), Jack Sides, Grace Thomas (history), Mikayla Botting (mathematics scholarship), Taylor Jennings (outdoor pursuits scholarship), Cody Brett (effort in workshop and woodcraft workmanship), Archie Bruce, Cormac Lee Smith, Abbey Strang (musicianship), Finn Jones (outdoor pursuits), Cameron Clarke, Bede Laming (effort in workshop).National achievementsZoe Giles, Rhian Telfer (triathlon), Sophie Fountain (equestrian), Phoebe Laker (athletics).International achievementsGrace Thomas, Hannah Thomas (dance), Luke Harrold (freeskiing).Premier sports awardsPhoebe Laker (girls’ sports), Luke Harrold (boys’ sports).Service awardsAnia-Kanu Saklani, Cholula Brown, Chloe Murray, Midori Osnabrugge, Amelia Latchford, Grace Thomas (students in the community with distinction), Chloe Murray (students in the community – special recognition), Zoe Blasby, Sam Soper, Joseph Combe, Mila Culpitt, (house spirit), Nico Pettit (special recognition - sustainability), Oscar Straker, Finn Jones (special recognition), Aria Winter (student council recognition).Duke of Edinburgh international awardsCaroline Smith, Olivia Coad, Sophia Menlove, Winifred McAllister Brown, Sophia Pullar, Kaitlyn Tooley, Sienna Marsden, Maja Griffith-Jones, Zara Weatherly (bronze), Madi Smith, Ivy Adams, Dani Maguire, Susannah West (silver), Kate Wilkes, Chloe Murray, Lola Ritchie (gold).Cultural awardsRyan Enoka (te korowai o te mātauranga).Arts awardSusannah West (wholehearted contribution to the arts), Kasey Brooks (performance).External scholarshipsAbby Jago, Amaya East, Amelia Latchford, Ania-Kanu Saklani, Archie Bruce, Barnes Metcalfe, Catty David, Charlie Blampied, Charlie Roy, Chloe Murray, Cholula Brown, Cody Brett, Dan McKean, Dorothy Anderson, Douglas Wise, Eli McArthur, Ella Halford, Finn Jones, Freya Atkins, Grace Thomas, Harry Oxley, Holly Fitzgerald, Isaiah Chin-Nyika, Jacob Fielding, Jemma Spear, Jessie Dye, Joseph Combe, Keira Follows, Lachlan Hay, Lili Kaler, Lola Rodger, Lucy Radford, Midori Osnabrugge, Mila Culpitt, Olivia Shore, Oskar Sharpe, Phoebe Gillespie, Ruby Norman, Ryan Enoka, Sam Smith, Scarlett Kirk, Sophia Lyon, Sophie Sullivan, Tanyn Wood, Tessa Unwin, Zoe Blasby, Zoe Giles.ScholarshipsMila Culpitt, Tanyn Wood, Dorothy Anderson, Marley Lahood, Zoe Blasby (leadership and role model), Jessie McNeil (polytechnic), Grace Thomas (law), Harrison Eastwood (music), Amber Leslie (art), Jordy van der Hulst (tourism and hospitality), Myles Nichol, Jack Labes (vocational), Dani Maguire, Caroline Smith, Rhian Telfer (leadership), Robbie McRae, Claudia Paterson (agricultural), Barnes Metcalfe (construction), Charlie Roy, Lachlan Hay, Amaya East (special recognition), Cholula Brown (medical).Premier awardsOskar Sharpe (dux), Ryan Stembridge (proxime accessit), Emily Hunt, Zoe Waddington, Jack Sides, Mikayla Botting, Ryan Enoka, Mila Culpitt (best all-round students), Lucy Radford (best all-round student overall).PHOTOS: MAC

A new charitable trust has been launched to protect and expand the region’s publicly funded and community owned hospital in Clyde.The Dunstan Hospital Foundation Charitable Trust will work alongside Central Otago Health Services Ltd (COHSL), the community-owned operator of Dunstan Hospital, to fund projects that enhance patient care, extend clinical reach, and futureproof the hospital for generations tocome.“Everyone deserves quality healthcare, no matter where they live,” foundation patron Sir Sam Neill said.“Dunstan Hospital has served this community for generations. This foundation is about keeping that service strong, expanding what it offers, and making sure local care remains local.”Initial projects are likely to include the redevelopment and expansion of the chemotherapy and infusion unit, upgrades to diagnostic technology, and digital tools that extend specialist care deeper into rural communities.Dunstan Hospital receives public funding to deliver core services on behalf of the government.However, funding is largely limited to day-to-day operational costs - not facility upgrades, new equipment, or medical innovations.Concerns have been growing over health inequity in the region.Wānaka-based investment company Roa has received consent for a $300M private surgical hospital in Wānaka, which has raised questions about access for non-elective and lower-income patients.Also underway are regional deal negotiations between the central government and Otago Lakes Central (a group comprising Queenstown District Council (QLDC), Central Otago District Council, and Otago Regional Council). The new foundation plans to fund “more than the basics”, such as facilities, technology, and clinical capacity.The draft deal includes plans for a privately financed, publicly leased hospital in Queenstown.Read more: Who is shaping the future of Central Lakes health?The new foundation says while private facilities may fill limited surgical niches, they cannot replace 24/7 public medical care.“Community fundraising bridges that gap,” Dunstan Hospital chief executive Hayley Anderson said.“It allows us to move faster - upgrading facilities, expanding clinical capacity, and investing in technology that keeps care local and accessible.”Meanwhile, Health NZ is undertaking a clinical services review for the Central Lakes region to help to determine what future publicly funded clinical services may be required in the area, how they will be delivered, and where they will be provided.Read more: Health services review in Upper Clutha to focus on needs, not locationsHayley said Dunstan Hospital’s role in providing urgent care, medical services, imaging and ambulatory care will continue to be needed. “It makes sense to keep medical beds on both sides of the gorge,” Hayley said.“Dunstan already has a facility with capacity for cost-effective expansion, and we’re ready to grow strategically, including extending services to Wānaka.”She said philanthropic support will make “a tangible difference to patient outcomes” by funding more than the basics, investing in facilities, technology, and clinical capacity.Advocacy group Health Action Wānaka (HAW) told the Wānaka App the group was pleased to hear about the foundation’s launch, adding that COHSL looking to extend its services to Wānaka “sounds very positive for the rapidly growing Upper Clutha community”. “The foundation is talking about funding the redevelopment and expansion of Dunstan’s chemotherapy and infusion unit and upgrading its diagnostic technology, both of which we support. We would also like to see more specialist clinics and enhanced crisis-level mental health facilities and support at Dunstan Hospital.“We continue to advocate for more local services in Wānaka. Currently, we have to drive to Clyde for publicly funded x-rays and ultrasounds despite us having two local providers that could deliver this service in Wānaka.” HAW said the group was interested in the outcomes of the Health NZ-led clinical services planning, “including its recommendations for what publicly funded services we need, where they could be delivered, and how Dunstan Hospital fits into the mix”.Dunstan Hospital Foundation Charitable Trust founders say rural hospitals are under increasing pressure to meet rising demand with limited funding, but Dunstan Hospital offers a proven, community-owned model that shows how local leadership, innovation, and philanthropy can sustain and strengthen essential healthcare outside the main centres.The foundation’s vision (‘elevated excellence in rural healthcare’) is about funding more than government budgets will allow - rural outreach clinics, staff wellbeing initiatives, and enhanced medical student training that attracts the next generation of rural doctors, nurses and allied health staff.Hayley said the Central Otago community invested in a CT Scanner for Dunstan, which resulted in “faster diagnosis, less travel, and better outcomes for our patients”. “That’s the kind of impact the foundation exists to continue.”Foundation chair Warrick Deuchrass said the goal is to keep care “close to home”.“Every donation goes straight back into improving access, dignity, and innovation in the way rural healthcare is delivered.”Community events will be held across the region in early November to mark the launch, including one at the Wānaka Community Hub on Monday (November 3) from 10am–12pm.Find more information here and watch a foundation video here.PHOTOS: Supplied

New Otago Regional Council chair Hilary Calvert acknowledged that extra representation from the Dunstan ward would reduce the tendency of the ORC being Dunedin-focused.The Dunedin-based businesswoman and former lawyer was nominated for the chair by her Vision Otago counterpart Michael Laws, and will be backed by Moeraki ward councillor Kevin Malcolm who was voted in as deputy.There were no other nominations for either role at the inaugural ORC meeting in Dunedin this morning, and Cr Malcolm said he was looking forward to working with Cr Calvert again - having both served on the ORC from 2019-2022.  Cr Calvert was also a former member of the ACT Party, and served on the Dunedin City Council from 2013-2016 after an unsuccessful attempt for Mayor.Dunedin businesswoman Hilary Calvert has been named the new Otago Regional Council chair. PHOTO: SuppliedShe teamed up with Cr Laws and Cr Gary Kelliher, along with unsuccessful Wānaka-based candidate Nicky Rhodes, under the Vision Otago banner at this year’s election.Former Central Otago deputy Mayor Neil Gillespie was one of the new faces around the council table, along with Matt Hollyer from Queenstown, making up the four Dunstan ward councillors.Cr Hollyer works in conservation spaces after years in tourism management.The Dunstan constituency gained an additional seat this year following a representation review in 2024, which saw Dunedin lose a seat in favour of rapidly growing inland Otago.Describing the extra councillor as a “wonderful opportunity” to add a new geographical portfolio to the mix, Cr Calvert said Dunstan would now be better represented, “considering the majority of our rates are from there and half of our rates are spent there.”Dunstan's councillors have been joined by Cr Malcolm (Moeraki), Cr Robbie Byars and Cr Kate Wilson, (Molyneux), Cr Calvert, Cr Andrew Noone, and former ORC chair Gretchen Robertson, along with Alan Somerville and new Cr Chanel Gardner, (Dunedin).While Cr Calvert and Vision Otago have strong policies on reducing rates, she acknowledged hers was only one voice among the 12, and said there were other views around the table she would expect to be part of deliberations going forward.“Thank you for putting your trust in me,” she told the council, and said a major challenge going forward was to work better with the community.“It’s time to focus on value for money for our ratepayers, and reduce the rates burden while maintaining the impetus of our environmental journey.“The community has shown that they are keen to be involved, and we need to work better with them to achieve results neither of us could achieve on our own.”Cr Calvert intended to appoint portfolios to each councillor, and expected them to have an in-depth knowledge and understanding of those.

Earlybird entries for next year’s Motatapu off-road event close this Friday (October 31), with organisers reporting strong interest ahead of the 19th edition of the Southern Lakes race.Event director Gemma Peskett said 2026 had already attracted a range of participants, from milestone celebrations to international visitors.“We’re seeing amazing stories from participants this year,” she said. “From 50th birthdays to flatmate reunions, people are finding their own unique reasons to make Motatapu 2026 their adventure.”Among those taking part is 52-year-old Mark Green, who will reunite with four former University of Otago flatmates to tackle the course together.The group, who studied in Dunedin in the early 1990s, are now based across New Zealand, Australia and Thailand.“We’ve been trying to meet up over the last couple of years but something always gets in the way,” Mark said. “I’ve always wanted to do Motatapu, so I picked the weekend … and talked them all into entering something.”Mark plans to run the 50 km Rab Ultra, while his friends take on the mountain bike and Miner’s Trail events.Meanwhile Dutch runner Saskia Van Der Drift will travel from the Netherlands to complete her marathon ‘grand slam’ – a marathon on every continent and the North Pole – at the Motatapu Trail Marathon.“I only choose the most beautiful and exciting marathons on the continent,” Saskia said.The annual event takes place on Saturday March 7, 2026. It began in 2005 allowing participants to cross the Motatapu, Soho and Glencoe high-country stations – private land open to the public for one day only each year. Around 4,000 competitors take part across several disciplines including trail running, mountain biking and the ultra-distance Rab run.Secure earlybird tickets here.PHOTO: Supplied

The sale of a much-loved family bach on Bremner Bay has sparked interest in the value of the property - it is one of Wānaka’s few remaining concrete block baches, with a multi-million dollar view, but for one family member the sale is mostly about memories.Long term Wānaka resident (and journalist) Marjorie Cook, who has spent many holidays at her grandparents’ bach, said its sale has sparked interest from many locals, including one of the original builders.The 2,814sqm property (on two titles) has been in the family for 60 years.In the late 1950s, the Lake County Council announced a subdivision by ballot and Marjorie’s grandparents - Horrie and Jessie Nelson - were lucky to be drawn for three section purchase rights.Prior to developing their property, the Nelson family camped on the land in tents and caravans, and along with their neighbours gradually cleared large swathes of kanuka from the front of their properties, providing clear views and access to the lake. Marjorie said the road in front at that time was just a gravel track. “The Nelsons and their neighbours had an informal agreement to set their houses back from the road frontage so all could enjoy a spacious aspect of lake and mountains, which is why the older 1960s baches and some (but not all) of the newer, modern houses are in what appears to be a reasonably straight line, considerably set back from the road.”The property at Bremner Bay. PHOTO: SuppliedThis “humble little house” - Marjorie’s phrase - was built in 1968, the culmination of milestones in the section’s development.The first construction was a small ablution block at the top of the section, to service family and friends camping on the idyllic block of land. Soon to follow was a large shed with a fireplace and a huge colonial style kitchen table - the scene of many family get-togethers.Various cabins were also dotted around the property, then the house was built in 1968 for the grand total of $8,700.Everything about the house was “carefully thought about”, Marjorie said, from the layout to the stone façade - which is distinctively different from the current vogue of stacked schist.Most of the stone was collected from the Haast River by her grandfather, Horrie.Trevor Norman, who built the house with Noel Faulks, remembers signing his name on the gib lining of the bach, somewhere near the kitchen.The ‘battleship cupboard’ housed everything you can imagine. PHOTO: Wānaka AppThe house remains mostly original - “not much change except for the carport which was turned into a third bedroom”, Marjorie said.A quirky artefact from the carport remains: a telephone cupboard built into the wall in the living room, which also opened into the carport. It meant any neighbours without a telephone could go into the Nelsons’ carport and access their telephone without having to bother them.The ‘battleship cupboard’ is another quirky 1960s feature. The behemoth has six cupboards across and, and is four drawers deep below. Anyone looking for something would be told “it’s in the cupboard”, Marjorie recalls. ‘Well, which one?” was the common reply, she said.Marjorie Cook (right) with her sister Judy on the boat that often did not go. PHOTO: SuppliedLife at the bach was all about the lake for Marjorie.“We swam and we rode our bikes,” she said.“We were always down at the beach any time of the year. We spent time in hammocks, reading books.”She produced a photograph of herself emerging from the lake in what looks like a storm - an early indicator of her future as a lake swimmer.Her grandfather owned a boat which seldom went, although the grandchildren spent a lot of time in it. Marjorie said there was great excitement whenever the boat actually roared into life.The Aubrey Road property in the mid-1960s. PHOTO: SuppliedThe property sale sparks so many memories it can be hard to talk about, she said.And while the marketing (23 and 25 Aubrey Road is being marketed by Craig Myles and George Wallis of Aspire Realty, via tender closing at 4pm November 7) focuses on the land, its remarkable location and its subdivision potential, this time Marjorie gets the last word:“I think it would be lovely if someone did want to live in the house.”

Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) and the Three Lakes Cultural Trust (TLCT) are playing ‘creative matchmaker’ this November - pairing local creativity with unexpected spaces and places across the district.The Creative Spaces Project will transform shopfronts, community hubs, lobbies and lakeside spots into impromptu galleries and performance venues, inviting residents and visitors to experience art outside traditional gallery walls.More than 19 local artists will showcase work ranging from light installations and paintings to performances and historic photography in venues including 47 Frocks, Wānaka Recreation Centre, Queenstown Marina, the Lakes District Museum, and more.“This project celebrates the creative energy that lives within our communities,” TLCT chief operating officer Samantha Kirk said.“By connecting local artists with local spaces, we’re offering a glimpse of what’s possible when creativity becomes part of the everyday fabric of our place.“It’s a taster of the incredible talent that exists here and an invitation for more spaces to open their doors to creative expression year-round.”The initiative stems from the Te Muka Toi, Te Muka Tākata, The Creativity, Culture and Heritage Strategy, a district-wide community strategy endorsed by QLDC last year. It envisions creativity, culture, and heritage as integral to the district’s wellbeing and identity.“Te Muka Toi, Te Muka Tākata calls on us to make creativity visible and accessible in our everyday environments,” QLDC relationship manager arts and events Jan Maxwell said. “The Creative Spaces Project is a wonderful example of this, showing how local collaboration can transform our shared spaces and create moments of connection.”QLDC and TLCT hope the month-long project will spark a lasting ripple effect.“While this activation runs for just one month, our goal is to show how creativity can thrive in all kinds of places and how local venues can play an ongoing role in shaping the cultural life of our district,” Samantha said.A full lineup of participating artists and venues can be viewed on an online digital map here.PHOTO: Deanna Gerlach

The Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) is planning on a big turnout of its aircraft for next Easter’s Warbirds Over Wānaka international airshow.It will include the first major airshow display by the new C-130J Hercules aircraft which replaced the C-130H which was farewelled at the last Wānaka airshow in 2024.Warbirds Over Wānaka general manager Ed Taylor said organisers were rapt to potentially have a full line-up of RNZAF aircraft displaying next Easter.“The Thunder Formation in 2024 featuring two of the old Hercs and the B757 was a huge hit with fans,” he said.“This time around it’s hoped this same display will feature the new 130-J, the B757 and the relatively new P-8 Poseidon.  “If you love big aircraft you’re going to love this display.”Another highlight will be the return of the world-class Black Falcons Aerobatic Display Team which shows off the skills of some of the RNZAF’s best pilots along with the crowd-favourite Kiwi Blue parachute display team.The Air Force is also hoping to have all three helicopter types at Wānaka – the NH90, A109 and Seasprite – although final confirmation is not expected until the New Year.As in previous years the RNZAF is also planning on playing a big role in the free community lakeside airshow staged by Warbirds Over Wānaka late on Good Friday of the airshow weekend.Read more: Ed Taylor to step down after final Warbirds Over WānakaPHOTO: Gavin Conroy

A one-hectare stand of Douglas fir and radiata pine will be removed from the Peninsula Bay reserve as the first step in a long-term ecological restoration initiative.Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) has partnered with Upper Clutha community groups on the project, which aims to control wilding conifers and enhance biodiversity across the district.The stand of trees marked for removal sits between Lake Wānaka and the Peninsula Bay residential area.It has been identified for restoration due to the dominance of exotic conifers and the opportunity to establish a more diverse native seed source for the wider reserve.Tree removal is scheduled to begin in the last week of October 2025 and will take approximately four weeks to complete, weather permitting, QLDC said.The project is being funded by private donors through the Upper Clutha Wilding Tree Group (UCWTG), with support from Otago Regional Council, and delivered in collaboration with Te Kākano Aotearoa Trust, Upper Clutha Tracks Trust, Bike Wānaka, and a local resident group.QLDC community services general manager Kenneth Bailey said he appreciated the collective efforts of these groups, working together to support the preservation and restoration of public reserve spaces.“Collaborating with a range of local groups that are invested in strong community and environmental outcomes always delivers the most benefit long-term,” Gordon said. Upper Clutha Wilding Tree Group committee member Arne Cleland said the project will play a part in the long-term strategy to control pest species spread in the Upper Clutha."This stand of Douglas fir is adjacent to Stevensons Peninsula which the UCWTG, in collaboration with Mt Burke Station, recently completed wilding conifer control on,” he said.“Douglas fir was found to be the main pest species at the southern end of the peninsula. By removing the stand of coning trees in this reserve, we're continuing to reduce the seed spread into the surrounding landscape.”Replanting of the site is planned for autumn 2026, with around 4,400 eco-sourced native shrubs and trees to be established over five years. Te Kākano nursery will play a key role in propagating and providing native seedlings for the project. The restoration plan includes two future trails through the reserve, which will be constructed in line with the reserve development plan when funding allows.Te Kākano Aotearoa Trust chair Greg Nelson said the project is aligned with its mission to foster community-led habitat restoration through hands-on participation.Upper Clutha Tracks Trust founding trustee and treasurer John Wellington said he was proud to be involved with the project as part of its new track development connecting the Peninsula Bay community and tracks with the lake and Lakeside Track.During the removal period, the operational area will be taped off and there will be no public access. Walking and bike access to the wider reserve will remain open, however vehicles will be restricted from entering the reserve and will need to be left at the road end. Signage, cones and caution tape will be in place to guide visitors safely around the operational area and the public is asked to be mindful of their proximity to the site. PHOTO: Wānaka App

Festivalgoers can now plan their Rhythm & Alps experience down to the hour, as organisers have revealed the official ‘day splits’ for this year’s 15th anniversary festival in the Cardrona Valley.More than 10,000 people are expected to attend the three-day festival, running over the New Year’s period at Robrosa Station. Organisers say this year’s event promises “a full journey” from the first beat to the early hours, featuring surprise sets, golden-hour performances and “late-night dance floor magic”.A wave of new acts has also joined the bill, including Shapeshifter frontman P Digsss, indie disco house outfit DADADA, and C100, alongside Sandfly, winner of this year’s Dig The Gig artist competition.Organisers said the first night (December 29) will feature an exclusive campers-only opening night, introducing a new premium camping zone for three-day ticket holders with upgraded private toilets, showers and other features. Gates open at 12pm, with limited spots available.The full festival programme begins on December 30, with gates opening at 10am and music from 4pm. Artists on the bill include roots-reggae group Corrella, disco/house selector Disco Dom (Dombresky), and high-energy drum and bass from KANINE. UK acts Kurupt FM, Fish56Octagon, and headliners Rudimental also feature, alongside a strong lineup of local and international performers.The New Year’s Eve finale will bring some of the biggest names yet, including Dizzee Rascal, Santigold, Badger, and orchestral electronic spectacular Synthony, which fuses a 60-piece orchestra with DJs, live vocalists and immersive visuals.Rhythm & Alps first took place in 2011 and has since become a staple of New Zealand’s summer music calendar.Find more information at the website.PHOTO: Supplied

Precious Collaborative’s innovative approach to fashion has earned a $10,000 vote of confidence from Wools of Wānaka.The clothing brand blends high quality, locally made garments with a unique business model that is helping make sustainable fashion more accessible. At the heart of Precious Collaborative is a system that lets supporters fund the project in different ways: by buying a limited-edition coat, paying full or extra prices for garments, or even donating without taking anything themselves.Their contributions make it possible for other customers to access high quality garments at a reduced price, helping the brand balance sustainability with affordability.In the case of Wools of Wānaka, it made a donation without taking a garment - a decision described by owner Ann-Louise Stokes as “easy”.“I am in awe of [designer Claire O’Connell’s] passion and commitment to natural fibres and sustainable garments,” Ann-Louise said.The gift will help fund another production run of sold-out pinafores and shirts, cover operational costs, and support a shared exhibition space with Liz Mitchell, MNZM at the Christchurch A&P Show in November, Claire said.It is the latest in a series of generous contributions that surpassed Claire’s expectations.“I have now got three payments from generous supporters,” she said.“The first one [came] from a local Wānaka person who had no idea if this would work but wanted to support the concept and help me get started; the second payment was from someone who has no idea who I am and who asked, before they even received their coat, if they could pay an extra $10,000 so they paid $20,000; and the third payment was from someone who doesn't want a coat but still wants to support.”Claire said the support demonstrates that people are willing to support creative projects in many ways. “What I feel this gives Precious is the idea that there are many types of supporters of this kind of social construction out there, willing to support in many ways and for many reasons.”PHOTO: Supplied

WAI Wānaka is hosting a two-day science and community event focused on the future of Otago’s deep alpine lakes - the Alpine Lakes Forum 2025 - next month.Co-hosted with the University of Otago and Otago Regional Council, the forum invites locals to engage directly with leading freshwater scientists, policy-makers, and environmental advocates, the local non-profit organisation said.Building on the success of 2023’s Knowledge into Action for Otago’s Alpine Deep-Water Lakes Summit, this year’s forum shifts from expert-only sessions to “a more inclusive, community-facing format”, the group said.The goal: to bring together scientific experts, policy-makers and community members to explore the health and future of Otago’s deep lakes and freshwater ecosystems.“We’re thrilled to bring Alpine Lakes Forum 2025 to the community,” WAI Wānaka CEO Cat Dillon said.“The 2023 summit was incredibly valuable, but not accessible to the general public. This time, we’re creating space for locals to connect directly with experts.“We see ourselves as a bridge between science experts and our community – and this forum is a chance to learn, collaborate and take action together.”The forum offers a diverse programme across two days, with themes of freshwater management, ecological monitoring, valuing nature and freshwater ecosystems, and community action.Cat said the diverse programme offers “a unique opportunity to explore themes of ecological monitoring, valuing nature and community-led freshwater action”.Find more information here.PHOTO: Wānaka App

Excitement is building as Wānaka snow sports athletes prepare to head overseas for the Northern Hemisphere season, with several already named in New Zealand teams and early selections for the 2026 Winter Olympics confirmed.Adding to the momentum, the Wānaka Snowsports Club has distributed $22,350 in grants to 27 athletes to support their training and competition goals over the next six months.Grant coordinator Bonny Teat said while New Zealand’s high-performance athletes are well supported through Snow Sports NZ, many aspiring competitors face significant costs. The annual grants aim to help bridge that gap and make overseas training more achievable.Among this year’s recipients are Freeride World Tour athlete Ben Richards, age-group freeride champions Aiden Fitzpatrick and Eva Small, alpine combined champions Isabel Watterson and Jesse Mutton, and promising ANC medal-winning freeskier Sylvia Trotter.Para alpine skier Bailley Unahi also received special consideration. Although outside the usual age criteria, she only began para skiing in her 20s and is pursuing Paralympic selection.The club raises funds through alpine events, social functions, and its annual Snowsports Gear Sale in May. Support from local businesses — including RealNZ Cardrona-Treble Cone, Mike Greer Homes, and Southern Land — plays a key role in the club’s activities and athlete development.The club will celebrate its athletes on Saturday, October 25, with a farewell BBQ and auction. The evening coincides with New Zealand alpine racer Alice Robinson’s first World Cup start of the season at Soelden.PHOTO: Supplied