A new application has been lodged to generate small business opportunities in Luggate’s commercial precinct.Packhorse Holdings Ltd filed a resource consent application with Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) last month to establish a small business hub on vacant land opposite the Luggate Hotel on State Highway 6.Land owner and developer Stuart Pinfold intends to create The Green, a “business garden”, comprising a number of food and business stalls on two adjacent titles.The application requests up to seven relocatable buildings and a shipping container for storage on one lot, sharing a landscaped outdoor area with seating on the second lot.“It is intended that this will become a food stall and small business greenspace rather than a traditional food truck environment,” his application said.The overall intent is to add vibrancy to the otherwise vacant roadside properties.“I’m reasonably confident that a collection of small businesses will help invigorate this area of the village, and I hope the Luggate locals will get behind those businesses.”Up to seven relocatable cabins are proposed for The Green. PHOTO: SuppliedStuart deliberately chose up to seven relocatable cabins as a starting point; it won’t overintensify the site yet will allow flexibility for more permanent buildings in the future, he said.He has already lined up “one of Wānaka’s top baristas” to begin with a coffee shop but he also envisages a complementary food stall, perhaps a barber, florist or accountant.“The Green will have food offerings but I’m hoping it can be a bit more than that…the options are somewhat endless.”In addition to adding vibrancy, the aim “is to give the people of Luggate, cyclists or any others who pass through a reason to actually slow down, stop and engage with Luggate,” he said.“It’s a starting point, and as Luggate grows in time, the site will respond. I’d imagine that this will be in operation for the next seven years or so, quite possibly longer.”Carparking for up to 12 vehicles, and fenced off from SH6 for safety, is also proposed.Stuart said he initially considered a small supermarket for his site, but the “Luggate catchment is not quite there yet”. “By going down this route I am testing the water, enabling small enterprises to have an affordable platform to offer the services, before committing significant outlay towards a more substantial commercial establishment,” he said.The proposal still awaits a green light from the New Zealand Transport Agency and QLDC but he hopes to get both “shortly”, Stuart said.Under the Proposed District Plan, Packhorse Holdings' two titles at 55 and 59 Main Road, Luggate are zoned Settlement Zone (Commercial Precinct).The company purchased the land in 2021 and 2023, Stuart said. Prior to that it sat vacant although a shop/diner operated there about 25 years ago before it was consumed by fire and ceased trading.Stuart Pinfold’s proposed development is not the only new commercial offering suggested for Luggate. Lake MacKay residential subdivision developer and owner of the former Upper Clutha Transport yard Murray Frost is considering options to create a retail hub centred around Luggate’s historic Flour Mill, beside SH6.Read more: Luggate retail precinct plans progress

Award-winning comedian Te Radar is heading to the Wānaka Festival of Colour with performances between April 1 and 4 in Bannockburn, Lake Hāwea, and Queenstown.‘Te Radar’s Cookbookery’ is part history lesson and part comedy show.“The show is fun, it’s celebratory, and it’s nostalgic,” Te Radar said.“People can certainly expect to laugh, because it’s most certainly a comedy show—it just happens to be about cookbooks, food, and New Zealand.”Attendees are invited to bring along a favourite supper creation to share after each show.In a surprise twist, New Zealand’s beloved chef, food writer, and publisher Annabel Langbein will join him in Hāwea as the honoured guest judge for the night’s best homemade dish. “We eat with our eyes, so visual appeal is important,” Annabel said. “That said, if people are preparing dishes from another era, I would love to see some authenticity in presentation. “I think back to my mum’s cookbooks – all that piping and decorating. And of course, the dishes need to taste really good.”Te Radar and Annabel Langbein previously worked together in 2008 on Off the Radar, where Annabel joined him for an episode of his cookery show. They haven’t seen each other since and are thrilled to reunite for this special event.The Wānaka Festival of Colour 2025 runs from March 29 to April 6. Find more information about Te Radar’s show, as well as the many other performances at the Wānaka Festival of Colour.PHOTO: Supplied

More than 2,500 people took to the hills in Wānaka and Arrowtown yesterday (Saturday March 1) for New Zealand’s biggest off-road sporting event, the Motatapu. With five events on offer - including a 52km ultra run, a 42km trail marathon, 47km mountain bike, 15km trail run and 4km kids’ trail run - the event provides an opportunity for first-time competitors and hardened weekend warriors to mix it up alongside elite athletes.  The marathon and mountain bike courses pass through the Motatapu, Soho, and Glencoe high-country stations which are opened to the public exclusively for the event each year. The ultra runners were the first on course, starting their day in the darkness at 6am at Glendhu Bay before traversing the long and steep saddles, river crossings and 3,000m of cumulative climbing across the Harris Mountain Range to finish in Arrowtown.Dean Stewart won the men’s Motatapu Ultra.The event was won by Dean Stewart (21), whose strategy was to “cover as much ground as possible before the sun came up”. He won in 06:30:06; with 2017 Motatapu Ultra winner Majell Backhausen in second place (06:34:08) and Douglas Golding third (06:40:54).Hannah Wall stepped up from a second-place finish in 2024 to take the win in the women’s Ultra field in a time of 06:57:52, well over an hour ahead of second place finisher Ashley Hawks. Lisa Macfarlane was third.While the ultra-runners tested their stamina, it was all about the speed in the elite mountain biking field. Cameron Jones made short work of the 47km course through the Motatapu Valley, finishing in a time of 01:49:23, a couple of minutes shy of the course record of 1:47:53 set by Dirk Peters in 2013. Hannah Wall won the women’s Ultra field.Sam Fox was a close second in 01:50:36 with 2024 U19 XCO National Champ Eddie Adams in third with 01:54:43. 2024 U23 Cross Country National Champion Maria Laurie blitzed the women’s mountain bike field, winning in a time of 02:19:54 ahead of local mountain bike legend Kim Hurst on 02:34:47 and Danielle Donaldson in third place on 02:35:20. A competitive ebike category was added to the roster for the 2025 Motatapu with Layton Craig winning the inaugural title in the men’s field with a time of 01:52:03, followed by Lloyd Ferguson in second and Andrew Westray third. Karlene Atlee took the honours in the women’s competitive ebike field with a time of 02:36:02, Diane Craig in second and Madonna Harris third. The Miner’s Trail Run, a 15km walk or run through the Arrowtown hills - with over 800m of climbing, was won by Wānaka’s Luke Wilson in a time of 01:13:46.  Motatapu Marathon winner Benje Paterson.Jack McKay finished second in 01:17:30 with Lee Cook third in 01:18:35. Queenstown local Hayley Holmes topped the podium in the women’s Miner’s Trail, posting a winning time of 01:39:04 with Dympna Boland second and Jess Hardwood third. Two hundred children took part in the 4km Junior Trail Run.Arrowtown local Benje Paterson won the Motatapu Marathon in a time of 03:04:11; Edward Eaton finished second in the Motatapu Marathon with Ben Hennessy third. Lining up for her very first marathon, Marina Ferguson won the women’s marathon field in a time of 03:28:20. Ella Scott finished in second place in a time of 03:34:31 with Emma Gutheinz third in 03:39:59. Two hundred competitors aged from 7 to 15 years old took on the 4km Junior Trail Run, with Niko Gardiner and Libby Fleck zooming around the course in impressive times of 00:16:13 and 00:18:09 to win their respective male and female categories. PHOTOS: Supplied

Plunket is providing fun and support for families at this year’s Wānaka A&P Show, which takes place next weekend (March 7-8).The Plunket Playground on Pembroke Park is a dedicated free space for children under five to play, explore, and enjoy their time at the Wānaka A&P Show. The area - designed with families in mind - will offer age-appropriate activities, toys, and plenty of room to roam.Plunket manager Bryony Illsley told the Wānaka App the area is also a “safe space” for families to come and feed their babies, change nappies and play. “This year we have a sand pit courtesy of the community workshop and sand supplied from Upper Clutha Transport, with toys provided from the Community Toy Library,” she said. “We have suncream, nappies, sanitary items and we will have a competition to give away a car seat courtesy from Queenstown Lakes District Council.”The Plunket Playground will be open on both Friday and Saturday from 10am to 4pm.PHOTO: Supplied

Hāwea Flat’s historic Presbyterian church, St Ninian’s, has been sold to a Queenstown buyer.The 87-year-old church was listed in December 2024 and church representatives shared the news of its sale yesterday afternoon (Thursday February 27).“Our Queenstown-based buyer will settle the property later in the year, with the view to maintaining and enhancing both the building and surrounds, and making it available to hire for events.”The sale of the 87-year-old church had generated a lot of interest from the Hāwea community.A group of residents had mooted the idea of retaining it for community use but they were unable to get this across the line.Minister Reverend Aaron Johnstone said he was grateful the purchaser did not plan to convert the church into a private residence and it would instead “remain available to the community”.The church had been listed for sale because the local congregation had outgrown it, he said.The new buyer will settle the property towards the end of the year and, until then, the church will remain at St Ninian’s.The construction of a new church within the Longview subdivision at Lake Hāwea is expected to begin this year.PHOTO: Southern Presbyterians

The NZ Mountain Safety Council (MSC) is urging trampers to assess their skills before attempting unmarked routes beyond Brewster Hut at the end of Brewster Track.The prompt follows the recent death of a woman in Mt Aspiring National Park.The woman and her companion were crossing exposed and difficult terrain beyond the hut when she fell several metres last Friday (February 21).It is the second fatality in the area in the past five years, MSC said.“This tragedy is a reminder of the risks in alpine environments,” MSC chief executive Mike Daisley said. “To prevent further tragedies, we strongly advise people to carefully assess their ability, fitness and gear, and check the weather conditions before undertaking Brewster Track, especially if considering going beyond Brewster Hut.”The area between Brewster Hut and the Brewster Glacier is a remote, alpine environment which has become increasingly popular over the last few years with domestic and international visitors.In the past five years until December 31, 2024, there have been 20 search and rescue operations involving 43 people in the area.MSC advises that this area is only suitable for trampers with off-track experience in high-consequence terrain that includes steep drop-offs and rocky bluffs; navigation skills and a high level of fitness are also essential; trampers need to be well-equipped for the conditions; and MSC recommends carrying a personal locator beacon.“As an alpine environment, the weather is highly changeable and prone to low cloud, rain and freezing temperatures,” Mike said.“These conditions increase the hazards considerably, making the rock slabs and steep terrain slippery, as well as hindering navigation.”In response to the spike in incidents, a Brewster interagency taskforce was set up in April 2024. The prevention collaboration includes MSC and the Department of Conservation (DOC) working alongside NZ Police and the Wānaka Search and Rescue (SAR) team.A number of initiatives have so far been implemented, including new DOC signage for Brewster Track and at the hut. Further work is underway.Mike said the MSC team extends its heartfelt condolences to the deceased’s family and friends, and all those affected by this fatality. “We acknowledge the efforts of the Otago Rescue Helicopter crew and Wānaka SAR team for their swift response,” he said.Key safety points to note:There are no marked tracks beyond Brewster Hut towards Brewster Glacier or Mt Armstrong. The tracks that are marked above the bushline in the Brewster area are indicated by a pole topped with an orange plastic marker.Only those with off-track experience in high-consequence terrain should go beyond Brewster Hut. Navigation skills and a high level of fitness are essential.Conditions in the area are highly changeable year-round and can include rain and freezing temperatures, snow, ice and avalanches, especially in winter. Trampers need to be well-equipped for these conditions and should carry a personal locator beacon.Brewster Track to Brewster Hut and back to the carpark requires crossing the Haast River. While the river is generally shallow, it can rise quickly following rain. The crossing should not be attempted if trampers are unsure that the river is safe or if rain is expected during their trip, as this could make the crossing unsafe on their return.PHOTO: Bianca Bratton

The woman who was found dead in the Timaru River earlier this month has been named.She was 36-year-old Claire Frances Connell, a NZ Police spokesperson told the Wānaka App.Claire was from Australia, the representative said.She was found dead in the river, near Lake Hāwea, on February 5.The Timaru River Track, which forms part of the Te Araroa Trail, runs alongside the Timaru River. NZ Police have not shared any additional details about Claire’s death but they have confirmed it is not considered to be suspicious.“Police extend our sympathies to her family and loved ones,” the spokesperson said.Her death has been referred to the coroner.PHOTO: Wānaka App

Dunstan ward Otago regional councillor Alexa Forbes said the response from the community about her not standing again this October have been positive, and made her feel that her efforts have been recognised.The Queenstown-based regional councillor was more ‘green’ than her fellow Dunstan ward elected members Michael Laws and Gary Kelliher, and was disappointed when the new National Government intervened in the Regional Land and Water Plan.Cr Forbes said she was most proud of representing the headwaters and shining a light on the issues and opportunities there. “Te uta te tai – from mountains to sea, this is the system approach and we’re seeing a recognition of this in our council.”However, that was not all of her work alone, and she really wanted to acknowledge Kai Tahu “who have thought about that for generations and been generous in imparting their knowledge and expertise,” and also her fellow councillors, chair and chief executive who have been willing to work on understanding the issues faced in the Upper Lakes area. She was also proud of what she’d achieved in public transport despite huge barriers.“I really see public transport as the way forward for QLDC and CODC transport issues (currently Queenstown is experiencing dreadful congestion, but it will hit our other towns in due course if we don’t solve the problem).”She said in such constrained geographical areas - particularly Queenstown - communities couldn’t keep building more roads and parking, and another solution was needed.“Cable ways are in the future, but planning will need to ensure people can get to the cable way stations.”She was really disappointed by the New Zealand Transport Authority Waka Kotahi (NZTA) failure to provide agreed active transport – the A7 trail between Jacks Point and Frankton and the Jim’s Way to Hardware Lane pedestrian/cycle bridge were examples. “Public transport won’t work properly if people can’t safely get to bus stops. Every bus trip starts with a walk, cycle or scooter trip so this network is essential if we are to provide an alternative to the private car.”Cr Forbes advocated for better environmental outcomes for Lakes Wakatipu and Wānaka. FILE SHOTCr Forbes was also very sad to have seen what she described as “the first slip” in the environmental status of Lakes Wānaka and Wakatipu.  She said monitoring of those lakes showed the measurements were going the wrong way.  “This needs to be reversed. That might be our most urgent job.”Cr Forbes said once leaving council, she would probably volunteer her time in the environmental or conservation space, and felt there was potential for the region to underpin the economy with the work that improved rather than degraded the environment.“For example, earning export dollars with our cutting edge conservation technology and methods. We could also export environmental and conservation knowledge and education and attract visitors specifically to study with our experts.”She believed concentrating on more tourism ‘bums on seats’ to try and extract more dollars was a “zero sum game” where communities and environment were the losers and corporate interests, many overseas based - the winners.“We don’t have to go that way, but we do need to invest in the alternatives.”

A woman ran into Lake Wānaka last night (Thursday February 27) to evade a police checkpoint.At around 5.25pm on Thursday the woman failed to stop at a checkpoint on Lakeside Road, “and fled from police on foot, into the lake”, a police spokesperson told the Wānaka App.“The person was assisted out of the water with the help of a member of the public. No injuries are reported,” they said. A 45-year-old woman is due to appear in Queenstown District Court on Monday (March 3), facing charges in relation to the incident.PHOTO: Wānaka App

‘Rubys Cinema’ will close next week, with the final film screenings on (Wednesday) March 5.The cinema (downstairs at the Basecamp/Cardrona complex on Cardrona Valley Road) opened in 2011.The twin-screen theatre has offered an ever-changing mix of mainstream and art house films, and set itself apart from the usual movie-going experience with luxurious decor, a cocktail menu, plush seating and other twists. Owner and Three Parks developer Allan Dippie told the Wānaka App the cinema would “go into hibernation until we get a new cinema at Three Parks”.He said the new cinema will be bigger and have more screens, “but still offer the boutique experience Wānaka people love”.“We would like to thank all our staff that have loved working at Rubys over the years and also all the locals that have loved the Rubys experience,” he said.The new cinema will be located within the Three Parks ‘town square’, which is currently in the design stage for the large grass area between Sir Tim Wallis Drive and the front of Mitre 10 Mega Wānaka, Allan said.Its timing isn’t confirmed, he said.PHOTO: Wānaka App

The first two plaques in a new project celebrating local history have been installed at the Wānaka Hotel and Queensberry Inn.The plaques project has been spearheaded by Wānaka History, a creative initiative of the Upper Clutha History Society.The goal of Wānaka History is to “bring the stories and rich history of the Upper Clutha region to life for the local community, visitors and tourists,” Wānaka History said in a statement.Each of the plaques features information about the history of the site and includes a QR code that directs readers to more information on the Wānaka History website.They are “the first of many” plaques set to be installed at local sites of historical importance, Wānaka History said. A Wānaka History event held in January celebrated the launch of its new website, which features a growing collection of information about local people, landmarks and history.Read more: History project to educate, share storiesThe website also features maps and images of Wānaka and its surrounds dating back many years.The new plaque at the Queensbury Inn.A group of volunteers continues capturing historical records, creating digital archives, undertaking oral history interviews and creating content for the website.All of this aids in Wānaka History’s goal of sharing and celebrating the unique stories, people, and landmarks that have shaped the Upper Clutha district. Learn more about Wānaka History on its website.Anyone who is interested in getting involved with Wānaka History can also get in touch via the website and people can also sign up there for the regular Wānaka History newsletter, ‘Those Were The Days’.The Upper Clutha History Society and Wānaka History have received funding support from Central Lakes Trust, Otago Community Trust and Queenstown Lakes District Council.PHOTOS: Wānaka History

Wastebusters plans to celebrate sustainable style, local talent and self-expression at the upcoming Refashion Show.Refashion will return for 2025 on Thursday March 20 at the Lake Wānaka Centre.“We are beyond excited to bring Wānaka’s creative community together to celebrate slow fashion,” Wastebusters event coordinator Abigail (Abi) Hurford-Abel said.“This show is all about showing how loved clothes last, and that our individual style is something to be celebrated.“We’re not just a catwalk show – we’re challenging how people think about fashion and their wardrobes.”The event will feature collections from local sustainable designers who have transformed sustainably sourced materials and repurposed clothing into fresh garments.Designers will demonstrate how repair, reimagining, and creativity can turn existing garments into expressions of individuality, Abi said.One of the designers joining the line-up is Precious Collaborative, debuting their everyday collection and introducing their innovative ‘one-to-many’ approach.By selling a high-end bespoke coat, they aim to help subsidise the costs of their everyday wear collection, taking a stand against fast fashion.A highlight of the evening will be the Styled by Wasties category – a collaborative project where community members submit style inspirations, and the Wastebusters team curates outfits from second-hand treasures.“Our shop is a goldmine for pre-loved fashion,” Abi said. “This moodboard project is a perfect example of how donated clothes can be reimagined into something fresh and exciting.”Attendees will get a behind-the-scenes look at the design process via designer interviews and they can also enjoy great music, delicious food and drinks, and shop the popular Wasties pop-up featuring an incredible selection of pre-loved clothing, Abi said.With every previous event selling out, tickets ($15 each) are expected to sell quickly.“This is a movement about reconnecting with our clothes, celebrating local talent, and having fun with slow fashion,” Abi said.Buy Refashion Show tickets here.PHOTO: Wastebusters

Plenty of questions remain following a vote in which Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) gave its go-ahead to the Otago Central Lakes Regional Deal proposal. While the proposal - created in partnership with Central Otago District Council (CODC), and Otago Regional Council (ORC) - made it across the line, three councillors voted against it at Tuesday' meeting (February 25), and they and others were wary of a lack of clarity.By approving the regional deal proposal QLDC was agreeing, in principle, to enter a partnership with the other councils, central government, and the private sector, to deliver initiatives ‘to address critical needs and support economic growth’, QLDC strategy and reform manager Pennie Pearce said.In broad brushstrokes, the proposal talks about ‘transforming transport’ by partnering with private industry, ‘enhancing’ publicly-funded health services by partnering with private hospitals, clinics and investors, boosting tourism productivity, and improving housing affordability.Read more: Tourism to drive plan for local regional deal“I want to highlight that this is a starting point,” Pennie said. “The detail of what the package will actually be will be worked through in a negotiation if we were to be invited to the table for a regional deal.”The proposal was seen as “an opportunity to do something different” by Lyal Cocks, but it raised concerns for Quentin Smith. PHOTOS: Supplied/Wānaka AppPennie confirmed QLDC had no information about what the negotiation phase would look like.Councillor Nikki Gladding said there were “lots of red flags”. They included the risk of private enterprise influencing public health decisions, a lack of clarity on whether there would be community consultation if initiatives in the plan were to progress, and the lack of information on the negotiation phase, she said.“This could all blow up on us,” she said.Deputy mayor Quentin Smith said the limited information was a major concern for him too.“I’m really concerned it doesn’t answer the primary questions we have - how do we fund the growth in this district, how do we fund the visitor component, how do we fund transport in a different way?”“The biggest mistakes I've made at this table have been when I haven't had enough information…[and] I haven’t got enough information to inform if this is sufficient to go to the government.”Others saw the plan as a promising opportunity to resolve some of the ongoing challenges in the district.“For those that are worried about this being the endgame I’ll point out the [public-private] Manchester deal has been running for 13 years now. They’re on to their eighth deal,” mayor Glyn Lewers said. “Here’s your chance, councillors, to be bold, break the system, actually achieve things we want to achieve and have talked about for six years.”Councillor Lyal Cocks said it was “an opportunity to do something different”.“Let’s grasp this opportunity and let’s try to get it over the line, being a bit innovative, and making a difference for our ratepayers and residents.”Quentin, Nikki, and Esther Whitehead were the only councillors to vote against the proposal.CODC and ORC councillors agreed to support the proposal yesterday (Wednesday February 26).The next step is for it to be submitted to the Department of Internal Affairs to be considered by central government.

Around four rugby fields worth of hessian mats will be laid on the floor of Lake Wānaka to help eradicate lagarosiphon from the lake in a project which began yesterday (Wednesday February 26).The two-month project will build on progress made over the past 20 years to clear lagarosiphon from the lake’s shoreline, led by LINZ.“The initial focus of divers will be monitoring the weed-free part of the lake and hand weeding any isolated plants,” LINZ biosecurity manager Tracey Burton said.“They will then turn their attention to controlling the weed outside of the weed-free area, working their way away from the western side of the lake towards Roys Bay, near the township."“In this part of the lake, divers will install around 4.5 hectares of hessian mats to smother the weed.”Tracey said it is essential to control lagarosiphon as it can take over and choke waterways, smother native plants and affect the way lakes are used.  The ultimate goal continues to be eradicating lagarosiphon from the lake, she said. “We’ve made good progress over the last few years, and we’re excited to see what impact we can make this season,” Tracey said.“We’re hopeful these efforts will enable us to clear the weed from more parts of the lake and enable us to move the containment line further towards the township as we push to progressively clear the lake.” A map of Lake Wānaka showing the containment line that shows the weed-free areas in the lake and areas infested with lagarosiphon. IMAGE: SuppliedThe containment line represents the divide between weed-free areas in the lake and areas infested with lagarosiphon, and it currently stretches from the southern point of the peninsula to the southern point of Bishops Bay.  The goal this season is to move the containment line further south to include Paddock Bay, Parkins Bay and Glendhu Bay in the weed-free areas.“Little by little we’re pushing the containment line out and we’re hopeful we can do that again with these continued efforts.”The control work will be carried out by LINZ biosecurity delivery partner Boffa Miskell Limited and it is partly funded by Queenstown Lakes District Council.Lake users are asked to be aware of the dive flags and to avoid the area, if possible.

Wānaka’s annual A&P Show, one of the largest in the country, will take place next weekend (March 7-8), and it will feature new classes in the popular Home Industry section.The Home Industry pavilion always draws a crowd throughout the show, spotlighting the community's talents in everything from scarecrow crafting and photography to baking and gardening.Competitions include arts, crafts, flowers, paintings, homebrew, vegetables and baking. It incorporates creations from the local community with exhibitors of all ages.Liz Buggs and Toni Hyslop are this year’s Home Industry co-convenors, and they’ve made some changes to the line-up.Liz told the Wānaka App there are “fabulous” special prizes in the preserves and jams classes.“They include fancy French copper preserving pans and a Lavender Farm gift set,” she said.“We’ve added classes to the Business Cake Bake Off (Class 926 Sponge any flavour) and to the Family Section (Class 1105 Make a Fairy House 30cm x 30cm).  “This brings our class total in the open section to 169 - something for everyone to enter.”There are also 80 junior classes, Liz said.Prize money in most open classes has also doubled this year, bringing the first prize value up to $10, second prize to $6 and third to $4. The junior class prize money has also doubled, with $8 for first place, $5 for second place, $3 for third place, and $2 for fourth place.  The entry fee remains the same as in recent years: just fifty cents for junior classes and open flower classes and $1 for the remaining open classes.Liz said the Home Industry judges this year will be new (with the exception of two): “We operate a two year rotation on the judges to make sure we bring in fresh eyes for our entrants.”This year the Home Industry Float will also be back in the main ring joining in with the Grand Parade on Saturday.Home Industry entries are currently open, and anyone who enters online before Friday (February 28) will go in the draw to win a Barker’s of Geraldine gift box valued at $220.Enter any Home Industry class at the Wānaka A&P Show before Friday to automatically go into the draw.PHOTO: Supplied

International tourist spending has returned to pre-Covid levels, while domestic tourism has dipped, according to the latest figures.StatsNZ has released its annual tourism satellite figures, showing international tourism expenditure was up 60 percent to $16.9 billion, returning to levels similar to 2019 ($17.2b).The largest increase on 2023 came from Asian visitors, a 168 percent increase year on year, followed by visitors from the Americas, up 59.1 percent, visitors from Europe up 25.9 percent and visitors from Oceania, an increase of 18.4 percent.International student expenditure (studying less than 12 months, which meets StatsNZ's definition of a tourist) also leapt up on 2023 - by 76.2 percent or $1.6b, reaching $3.8b.That figure includes course fees, living costs, and airfares.Meanwhile, domestic tourism expenditure dropped by 2.5 percent to $27.5b, on the back of an 11.2 percent ($2.8b) increase the year before, and household tourism expenditure decreased by 5.8 percent to $1.3b.Total tourism expenditure for the year was just over $44.4b, up 15 percent from the year before.The number of tourism employees (159,030) and tourism business owners (23,697) both went up, by 13.3 percent and 15.1 percent respectively.Tourism accounts for 6.4 percent of the workforce.The government has focused on tourism growth as part of its economic strategy.It committed $3 million to attracting tourists to the regions in the off-season while also hiking the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL), and making cuts to Department of Conservation and Tourism New Zealand's funding.Earlier this month, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon launched a $500,000 short-haul tourism campaign, with the slogan "Everyone must go" which attracted opprobrium from some quarters for its "toilet queue tone" or resemblance to a clearance sale.But some popular tourist areas are wary of the focus on numbers, with Queenstown District Council warning this week of plummeting tourism approval ratings and the prospect of protests and hostility without urgent intervention, as pressure grows on infrastructure, housing and the environment.In January, Queenstown Mayor Glyn Lewers called on the government to step up its infrastructure spend following the Minister for Economic Development Nicola Willis' announcement the government was moving away from its predecessors policy of targeting high spending tourists in favour of sheer numbers."I would expect a very serious investment in actually accommodating those visitors because a small ratepayer base cannot sustainably keep supporting the tourism industry," he said.

We’re thrilled to announce that we are now the official legal advisors for Wānaka App! As a trusted local news and community platform, Wānaka App plays a vital role in keeping the region informed and connected. Our team is excited to support them by providing expert legal advice and guidance.Checketts McKay Law – Meet the Wānaka Team The Checketts McKay team in Wānaka is a friendly and experienced group of legal professionals who are passionate about providing expert legal advice with a personal touch. Whether you're buying your first home (or second), setting up a business, entering a commercial lease or navigating a tricky legal situation, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.Let’s introduce you to the friendly faces behind our Wānaka branch:Meet Our LawyersL to R, Holly & PaigeHolly Holly is the go-to expert for all things property law. If it’s purchasing your dream home, subdividing or succession planning, Holly will ensure everything runs smoothly. She has a keen eye for detail and a passion for helping clients achieve their goals.Paige Paige has a wealth of experience in commercial law including leasing, commercial property acquisitions, business sales and purchases and shareholders agreements. Paige is keen to find practical solutions to help businesses thrive, whether you're a start-up or an established company looking to expand.L to R, Bridget & CaitlinBridget Bridget is part of our criminal and family law team, often appearing in the Alexandra and Queenstown Family and Criminal Courts. She is an approved Lead Family Legal Aid provider. Bridget's family and relationship property practice is also supported by her experience in residential property transactions and estate planning.   Caitlin Caitlin has a number of strings to her bow, having worked overseas in commercial property management and later working within NZ for the public sector. Caitlin specialises in property law and brings a pragmatic approach to her client’s legal matters. Our lawyers are lucky enough to be supported by a registered legal executive, Aleisha and our receptionist Arden, who’s warm welcome into the office sets the tone for the exceptional service we provide. Legal Services We Offer At Checketts McKay Law, we cover a wide range of legal services, and we like to think of ourselves as your legal GPS – helping you navigate the tricky twists and turns of the legal world.Buying or Selling PropertyBuying or selling a house should be exciting, not overwhelming. Our property team ensures your transaction is stress-free, with no legal jargon, just clear and straightforward advice.Succession Planning No one likes to think about the "what ifs," but getting your will sorted is one of the best things you can do for your family. We make estate planning easy by providing sound advice to protect what matters most.Business Law Starting a business? Expanding? Selling up? We’re here to make sure your legal foundations are rock-solid. Think of us as your business’s legal bodyguard – keeping you safe from contract confusion and shareholder squabbles.Relationship Property Whether you’re getting together or parting ways, we can assist with Contracting Out Agreements (“Prenups”) and Separation Agreements. We’ll ensure your relationship property matters are sorted fairly and efficiently.Rural Law We can assist with your rural property matters from succession planning to protect the family farm to forestry rights, leasing and irrigation, we understand the unique challenges of rural law and our team will help you navigate the legal side of things to give you more time for the work that matters. Come Say Hello!Whether you need legal advice or just want to put a friendly face to a name, our Wānaka team is always happy to talk. We’re here to help, with expert advice and a warm welcome. 17 Dunmore Street, Wānaka

A survey of local track users which found that people want a range of styles of walking and cycling track was one of the reasons for a proposed new loop track along the Hāwea River.The Upper Clutha Tracks Trust (UCTT) has submitted a resource consent application for a 4.8km long public walking and cycling track on the true right bank of the Hāwea River from the Hāwea Dam to Camphill Road.Upper Clutha Tracks Trust spokesperson John Wellington told the Wānaka App the trust “always tried to create different styles of track”, and the loop track would provide a “simpler track for those who like a bit of a challenge”.It would also be suitable for walkers and “rugged” strollers, he said.If the application is approved and receives funding, John said, the trust hopes to develop the track over the winter to be ready for use in late spring and early summer.“Funding applications are going in now and we would hope to hear in June,” he said.John said the trust is “reasonably confident” it will gain resource consent. The trust consulted with landowners in the area a year ago and did its best to incorporate their feedback in the proposal, he added.Ninety-nine percent of the track is on the marginal strip, which is in place to allow access, John said.Where the proposed track isn’t on public land, the trust either has permission from the landowner or has an alternative option, he said.The UCTT also plans to upgrade a section of the Hāwea River Track from Camphill Bridge to Butterfields Wetland.“That section is pretty rough,” John said. It meets the standards of when it was built (2009), but the commuter standard is now higher, he said, citing the Devon Link as an example.The Hāwea River Track is now the busiest track in the network - apart from the Outlet Track, John said.Queenstown Lakes District Council is currently considering the trust’s application for consent to undertake earthworks and vegetation clearance to construct the proposed loop track.If completed, the new track could be combined with the Hāwea River Track on the true left bank to form a 10km loop. PHOTO: Wānaka App

Wānaka Police have had a busy few weeks, and Senior Sergeant Fiona (Fi) Roberts gave a “special thank you” to local emergency teams who have also responded to various incidents in the area during this period.One of those incidents was on Friday (February 21) when a rescue helicopter was dispatched to Mt Brewster to assist an injured person on the track.“The alarm was raised by a second person in the party; sadly by the time the rescue helicopter got to the scene the injured person had succumbed to their injuries,” Fi said.Accidents, driving complaints, and drink driving have featured in road policing during the past few weeks, she said.On Saturday (February 22) police were called to a motor vehicle accident north of Makarora where the 78-year-old male driver appeared to have fallen asleep at the wheel. Despite there being three passengers, there were no injuries, Fi saidOn the same day a 23-year-old man was charged with dangerous driving “as a result of his actions on Cardrona Valley Road”, Fi said.His vehicle was impounded and he is appearing in Queenstown District Court today (Wednesday February 26).A day earlier (on Friday February 21) a 22-year-old female was stopped at a checkpoint on Riverbank Road and underwent EBA (excess breath/blood alcohol) procedures, with a result of 784. “The driver was observed by police turning abruptly from [a] compulsory breath testing checkpoint,” she said, adding that the driver attempted to avoid apprehension by turning into a driveway and “jumping her vehicle over a culvert”. On the same day a 47-year-old male was stopped on Camphill Road and underwent EBA, with a result of 299 micrograms; a 31-year-old male was stopped on Wānaka/Luggate Highway with 475 micrograms; and a 62-year-old male was stopped on Riverbank Road with 344 micrograms. The day before (Thursday February 20) a 26-year-old male was stopped on Mt Aspiring Road with 465 micrograms; and on Wednesday (February 19) a 27-year-old male was stopped on West Meadows Drive with 298.On Tuesday (February 18) police attended a vehicle accident on the Crown Range where the female driver appeared “to have lost control of her vehicle causing her to spin out a couple of times and hit the left barrier, before coming to a stop against the rock bank,” Fi said.Police are awaiting blood results to establish culpability, she added.On the same day police were advised of a driver on the Crown Range Road allegedly passing multiple vehicles at speed.The driver was located and issued with an infringement offence notice.“Driving complaints continue to be a significant issue in our area,” Fi said. Patrols have identified a number of vehicles passing school buses and Fi said she wanted to remind drivers that when you’re passing a school bus that’s stopped to let children on or off, the speed limit is 20km/h.“This limit applies even if the school bus has stopped on the opposite side of the road to where you are driving,” she said. “It is painfully slow, there is a good reason for this.”Patrols around Te Kura o Tititea Mount Aspiring College also identified several drivers driving without an appropriate licence. They were issued infringement offence notices.Otago Lakes Road Policing Manager Sergeant Steve Watt said there had been four fatalities from three crashes on the roading network in as many weeks.“Early indicators suggest that speed and alcohol were factors in these crashes,” Fi said. “People make mistakes but we all have the ability to influence driver behaviour and make a difference. We will continue to beat the deterrence drum, anywhere anytime, high demand times and extensive coverage across our network.”“Please be safe out on our roads,” she said. “We have an ongoing flux of people coming to Wānaka for events in March and April.”Call 111 when you need an emergency response from police, fire or ambulance.Call 105 to report things that don’t need urgent police assistance.Call *555 to report road incidents that are urgent but not life-threatening.To make an anonymous crime report contact Crime Stoppers.PHOTO: Wānaka App