Otago Daily Times: Your Town

Police investigating death near Palmerston

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 21:12:32 +1300

Police are investigating a death on a rural property near Palmerston on behalf of the coroner.

Great turnout for show

Sarah Marquet — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

More entertainment and "great weather" may have been responsible for the "above average" turnout at the 115th Central Otago A&P Show in Omakau on Saturday, according to show committee president Geoff Clouston.

Little progress made on development

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 05:25:00 +1300

Ken Gemmell (94) contrasts the rapid development of early Oamaru with the lack of progress on today's Forrester Heights subdivision.

Fire crews battle central city blaze

Chris Morris — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 20:51:50 +1300

Firefighters and police are at the Kingsgate Hotel in central Dunedin after a large fire broke out this evening.

$20,000 for track

Lucy Ibbotson — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 05:28:00 +1300

Mountain biking enthusiasts will soon have another Wanaka track at their disposal, this time right in the centre of town.

'Honoured' by appointment as national judge

Sally Rae — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

When Fiona Walker found out she had been selected as a judge for the world shearing and woolhandling championships, she "did a jig" at the mailbox.

95-year-old RNZAF veteran off to memorial

Emily Menkes — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

At 95 years old, Oamaru man Bill Mitchell is about to take a walk down memory lane.

Little River Band frontman cool with resort's change

Olivia Caldwell — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

They have been on the radio since 1975, their oldest member is 61 and by their own account they now sound better than they look, but the Little River Band still manages to get an old fashioned mosh pit formed in front of the stage - 40 rows long.

First filtration results positive

Marjorie Cook — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Favourable progress has been made with attempts to reduce the amount of algae in Wanaka's domestic water supply, following the trial of a filtration plant at the western intake, project manager Ken Gousmett reported this week.

Recycling revised

Marjorie Cook — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Smart Environmental's recycling services begin in Wanaka on March 5, with new crates to be delivered to eligible properties from Monday, February 20.

Sludge disposal possibilities appear numerous

Marjorie Cook — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

The search for solutions to an accumulation of sludge is looking promising, solid wastes manager Stefan Borowy told the Queenstown Lakes District Council infrastructure services committee this week.

Church morphing into new cinema

Lucy Ibbotson — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Renovations to Wanaka's former Catholic church in Brownston St have begun as the owners of Cinema Paradiso prepare to begin a gradual relocation process to the building.

First response group planned

Bill Campbell — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 05:29:00 +1300

A proposal by St John to establish a first response unit at Palmerston has been greeted favourably by the community.

Couple were widely respected in community

Lynda Van Kempen — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 05:29:00 +1300

Lesley and Warren Johnston were a good, community-minded couple and Mrs Johnston's murder by her husband sent shock-waves through the district, a friend of the couple said yesterday.

Decision against development

Marjorie Cook — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 05:29:00 +1300

A six-house development proposal for Damper Bay, criticised by the Wanaka Residents Association last year for its "industrial scale", has been refused by two Queenstown Lakes District Council commissioners.

Americana comes to town

David Bruce — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

About 80 American cars rumbled into Oamaru yesterday for the first Oamarican Car Show.

Platinum Estates puts 18-lot subdivision development case

Olivia Caldwell — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Developer Platinum Estates Ltd has put its case forward to the Queenstown Lakes District Council for a proposed 18-lot subdivision at Dalefield, near Arrowtown.

Nod for Panorama Tce plans

Marjorie Cook — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Detailed designs will be drawn up for road rehabilitation works in Panorama Tce, Queenstown, following the Queenstown Lakes District Council infrastructure committee's approval of concept plans on Tuesday.

Process approved for engaging council consultants

Marjorie Cook — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

The process for procuring the services of council consultants was approved by the Queenstown Lakes District Council infrastructure services committee this week.

New lease on life for Speedy

Miranda Spary — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 05:25:00 +1300

Arrowtown book buyer Miranda Spary continues her regular column about her recommendations for a good read, and life as she sees it ...

Starring role for resort in movie

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 05:25:00 +1300

Queenstown hit the big screens yesterday, with the resort landing a "cameo role" in Any Questions for Ben?.

First two bikes given away

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 05:25:00 +1300

Element AvantiPlus and Alpine Aqualand have given away the first two of four bikes in the Summer Swim and Slide promotion, with Juliana Souza (28), of Queenstown, and James Muir (3), of Hawea Flat, the first winners of an adult's and child's bike.

South Island debut for artist

James Beech — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 05:25:00 +1300

Queenstown is the natural place for a Tauranga artist to make her South Island exhibition debut, Susan Harrison-Tustain says.

Hot tip: The Bitches' Box and Mel Parsons' Woolshed Tour

James Beech — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 05:25:00 +1300

A winning combination of original music, theatre and comedy will delight heartland New Zealand audiences, including Queenstown, on March 7.

Hollywood star hopes for Hills

Olivia Caldwell — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 05:25:00 +1300

Organisers of the New Zealand PGA and celebrity golf championship are calling for Queenstown to get in behind the event as they hope to sign up the tournament's first Hollywood star.

Roxburgh man admits murdering his wife

Debbie Porteous — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:05:24 +1300

A 67-year-old Roxburgh man has pleaded guilty to murdering his wife in March last year.

Farm worker dies after Southland quad bike crash

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 08:38:43 +1300

A dairy farm worker has died after being trapped underwater by his quad bike near Invercargill overnight.

Historic magazine's contents far from explosive

James Beech — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Generations of Arrowtown children let their imaginations run wild guessing what was inside the locked and abandoned historic magazine, at the Malaghans and McDonnell crossroads, but conservationists found nothing other than two copies of the Otago Daily Times, straw and broken beer bottles.

Top shearers in action

Sally Rae — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

It is a big week in the South for shearers and woolhandlers.

Court sittings expected to return soon

David Bruce — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Court sittings for criminal cases could return to Oamaru, with details still to be sorted for using the Oamaru Opera House.

Police have naked ambition

Lucy Ibbotson — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Police in Wanaka are determined to "get to the bottom" of a series of incidents involving a naked man engaging in recreational pursuits in public places.

Water supply assurance agreed

Marjorie Cook — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 05:25:00 +1300

A group of Wanaka landowners would be reassured the council would protect their rights to an unrestricted water supply, in accordance with an Environment Court ruling, the Queenstown Lakes District Council's infrastructure committee agreed this week.

Sea erosion forces total closure of a section of Beach Rd

David Bruce — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

A section of the coastal Beach Rd closed to vehicles in 2008 because of sea erosion has now also been closed to walkers and cyclists.

Free entry for Highlanders Super 15 warm-up match

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

The gates to the Investec Super Rugby pre-season clash between the Highlanders and the Chiefs will be thrown open on Saturday and entry will be free.

Decision on roundabout close

Marjorie Cook — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

The long-awaited Ardmore and Brownston Sts roundabout could be finished by June 30, but Wanaka councillor Lyal Cocks is advising everyone to contain their excitement.

No arrests in home invasion

Lucy Ibbotson — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

No arrests have been made yet in relation to a home invasion-style incident in Wanaka last week, but some possible suspects have been identified, police said yesterday.

Good leasing interest in CBD

Joe Dodgshun — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:26:00 +1300

Interest in Queenstown central business district leasing space has jumped, at the expense of interest in the resort's industrial areas, a Queenstown realtor says.

Fundraiser for Memorial Hall

James Beech — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:26:00 +1300

Favourite songs from the Rat Pack era and Motown plus a musical comedy double act are on the bill for a fundraising performance for the upgrade of the Queenstown Memorial Hall.

Poker tour to return

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:26:00 +1300

They know when to hold 'em and know when to fold 'em, and poker enthusiasts will be doing it in Queenstown again this winter.

First stage of major Henderson House renovation completed

Lynda Van Kempen — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:29:00 +1300

More than $450,000 has been spent restoring and renovating one of Alexandra's "landmark" homes - Henderson House.

Man dies at bike rally

Lynda Van Kempen — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

A man who died at the Vincent County Motorcycle Rally "passed away while he was doing what he enjoyed," one of the rally organisers said yesterday.

Dancing tractors pull the crowds

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Tractor square dancing, magicians and singers made Saturday's 129th Palmerston-Waihemo A and P Show one to remember.

Crowds soak up the music

Lucy Ibbotson — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Some of New Zealand's best musical acts performed to a well-behaved, sold-out crowd at the Rippon Music Festival on Saturday.

Ticket office lifted for restoration

Joe Dodgshun — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:26:00 +1300

Restoration of the boat shed and ticket office building on the Frankton waterfront is on track for completion at the start of May.

Hair on line for charity

Olivia Caldwell — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:26:00 +1300

Losing a head full of hair is a small price to pay for two Queenstown women who hope to raise more than $3000 for cancer research, three years after family members died of cancer.

Super D cycle event back

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:26:00 +1300

The Super D endurance event has been confirmed to run again as part of this year's Queenstown Bike Festival.

Ranfurly stalwart departing after 38 years

Lynda Van Kempen — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Maniototo has lost its "Jack of all trades". Jack Rutherford, a mainstay of a host of community organisations and tireless "behind the scenes" worker, shifted to Dunedin last week after spending the past 38 years living in Ranfurly.

Restored bomber for airshow

Marjorie Cook — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

The only remaining airworthy Avro Anson from World War 2 has been confirmed to fly at the Warbirds Over Wanaka International Airshow this Easter.

Chain of car thefts apparently linked

Ben Guild — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 05:31:00 +1300

A string of seemingly related vehicle thefts in Otago and South Canterbury have police appealing for information from the public.

Bikers come on down by the riverside

Lynda Van Kempen — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Location, location, location applies to motorcycle rallies as well as real estate.

District rivalry renewed

Lucy Ibbotson — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Old rivalries will resurface on Waitangi Day as the usually harmonious folk of Hawea draw a battle line down the middle of the district for the annual Town v Country Challenge.

Local lads ready to rip into Rippon

Lucy Ibbotson — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Four former Mount Aspiring College pupils who make up electro-punk band Colour Classic are more nervous about taking to the stage in front of some of the biggest names in New Zealand music than performing for the more than 4000-strong crowd at today's Rippon Music Festival in Wanaka.

Tattooist urges people to think before they ink

Vaughan Elder — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:53:07 +1300

The demand for tickets to tomorrow's Tattoo and Art Show at Forbury Park Raceway shows how much tattooing has grown as an art form, event organiser Macaela Manuel says.

Crash victims still serious

Lynda Van Kempen — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 06:28:00 +1300

Two women remain in hospital, one in a serious condition, three weeks after a vehicle crash at Cromwell which claimed the lives of two of their friends.

Trust gives $11,000 to Doc mohua programme

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:29:00 +1300

The Mohua Charitable Trust has donated $11,000 to a Wanaka-based programme to save the mohua, a rare native bird, in the Mt Aspiring National Park.

Star-studded Campion shoot starts in Queenstown

James Beech — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:28:00 +1300

Academy Award-winning New Zealand director Jane Campion is due to roll cameras on location near Queenstown on Tuesday and the cast and crew are "very busy, very focused, very excited", one of the producers says.

Track access restricted

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Public access to Graves Track via the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony will be restricted until March 31.

Wigmore eager to return

James Beech — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Former Queenstown Primary School pupil turned international pop sensation Gin Wigmore says she jumped on board her first Classic Hits Winery Tour after a taste of performing in winery a few years ago.

Earthtonz timing may move forward

Joe Dodgshun — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

The second Earthtonz New Year's Eve music festival in the Gibbston valley may be shifted forward a week to avoid competing with the Queenstown waterfront and bar festivities.

Progress on health services

Eileen Goodwin — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Real progress is being made on resolving the issue of Wakatipu health services, Southern District Health Board chairman Joe Butterfield said yesterday.

Rippon prepared for cooler concert

Lucy Ibbotson — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Organisers of tomorrow's sold-out Rippon Music Festival are prepared for all weather contingencies.

Shaken, stretched, stuffed

Miranda Spary — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:25:00 +1300

Arrowtown book buyer Miranda Spary continues her regular column about her recommendations for a good read, and life as she sees it ...

Hot tip: The Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra

James Beech — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:25:00 +1300

The Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra has played in Arrowtown, Glenorchy, Wanaka and Alexandra before, but never Queenstown, until now.

Dramatic oil landscapes by young hand

James Beech — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:25:00 +1300

A new take on depicting Southern landscapes is presented to the public by a young member of the Queenstown Art Society today.

Chinese visitors keep resort busy

Joe Dodgshun — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:25:00 +1300

Queenstown businesses reported an increase in the number of Chinese visitors last week and early this week, as the resort experienced a "record Chinese New Year".

Christmas comes very early ...

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:25:00 +1300

The 2011 Shotover Jet Christmas Spectacular raised $10,730 for Youth Booth, and Shotover Jet general manager Clark Scott (front) arrived on Wednesday to hand over the proceeds to youth workers (from left) Jacqui Moir, Fi Sawers, Nathan Baxter and Laura Cross.

Grant to allow pine eradication

James Beech — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:25:00 +1300

The community group set up to fight the infestation of wilding pines around Queenstown says a 108,906 grant from the Central Lakes Trust will help them take the war directly to the front line.

Need seen for workable tree removal process

Joe Dodgshun — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:25:00 +1300

A need for a more workable mechanism to allow for the removal of "dead, dying or unsafe" heritage trees has been identified by the Queenstown Lakes District Council.

Chch airport project for ex-CEO

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:25:00 +1300

Fomer Real Journeys chief executive Dave Hawkey has been recruited to work on an initiative by Christchurch International Airport to boost South Island tourism.

Education officer settling in

Olivia Caldwell — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:25:00 +1300

A new education officer has arrived at the Lakes District Museum, and with eight years of teaching experience she is ready for the challenge.

Colourful quilting on show

Olivia Caldwell — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:25:00 +1300

Queenstown Quilters and Patchworkers will celebrate their 25th birthday tomorrow and members have invited everyone to see the colourful display at the Lakes District Museum in Arrowtown.

Help for big teens

Tracey Roxburgh — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:25:00 +1300

Three Queenstown businesses have teamed up to support Wakatipu teens needing help to make a lifestyle change.

Foundation complete

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:25:00 +1300

Remarkables Primary School's 54 newly enrolled pupils gather together after Wednesday's new entrants' assembly, which the school's first year 7 and year 8 pupils attended.

Aiming to up downhill world series game

Olivia Caldwell — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:25:00 +1300

Some of the world's best downhill mountain bikers have been in Queenstown this week training for the forthcoming World Cup Series to be held across 10 different countries over eight months.

Council acts over harbour erosion claims

Chris Morris — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:28:00 +1300

Dunedin City Council staff will conduct a fact-finding mission at Te Rauone Beach, on Otago Peninsula, after claims urgent action is needed to address erosion in the area.

Armed men in home invasion

Marjorie Cook — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:32:00 +1300

Police are investigating a violent home invasion incident in Wanaka when a man was attacked with a wheelbrace and demands were made for drugs and money.

Subdivision site said to be sacred land

Ben Guild — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

The controversial Forrester Heights residential subdivision drama has taken another turn, with a contention the site sits on sacred Maori land.

New Waitaki rector inspires pupils to set goals

Ben Guild — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

New Waitaki Boys' High School (WBHS) rector Paul Jackson was welcomed to the school at an assembly in the Hall of Memories yesterday morning.

Airport noise boundary decision reserved

Lucy Ibbotson — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

The Environment Court has reserved its decision until May on a hearing considering noise from Queenstown Airport and surrounding future developments.

Gay Ski Week brand bid

Olivia Caldwell — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

The owner of the company which organised Gay Ski Week in Queenstown before he placed it in liquidation last year, is thought to be bidding to buy the company back, despite creditors still being owed a total of nearly $60,000.

Agent censured

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Te Anau real estate agent has been censured for unsatisfactory conduct and "sloppy" work after a complaints hearing.

CCTV footage leads to arrests

Lucy Ibbotson — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Just weeks after its installation, Wanaka's new CCTV system has already proved a valuable tool in police investigations and has even led to some arrests, Wanaka police chief Senior Sergeant Allan Grindell says.

Youth acknowledges impact of alcohol

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:35:00 +1300

Event to raise funds for health centre

Helena de Reus — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +1300

An event to raise funds for the proposed West Otago Health Centre will be held during Waitangi Day weekend.

Speed limit bylaw must be revisited

Olivia Caldwell — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:26:00 +1300

Arrowtown residents will have to wait a while longer before the future of the town's speed limit is revealed after "technicalities" in the original proposal need correcting.

Sports bar in starting block

Joe Dodgshun — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:26:00 +1300

Queenstown will once again have a dedicated sports bar from Friday with the opening of Xtreme - an "American-style" bar in the premises previously housing Ministry of Sports.

Witnesses sought to Invercargill assault

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 07:54:08 +1300

A man walking along an Invercargill street was attacked by another man in a passing van early on Sunday morning, police say.

Mt Stuart on track for good result

Helena de Reus — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 05:29:00 +1300

Power generation at the Mt Stuart wind farm may have got off to a slow start, but the new installation is on track to record a good result this month.

Public support sought over court arrangements

Helena de Reus — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Clutha residents fighting to keep court services in Balclutha are appealing for public support before an expected Ministry of Justice announcement on the issue on Monday.

'Naughty' boaties a concern

Marjorie Cook — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Queenstown Lakes harbourmaster Marty Black is troubled by the number of people boating this summer without life jackets and in cheap inflatable boats.

Central Otago's golden year launched

Lynda Van Kempen — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 05:29:00 +1300

Dredge buckets and mining memorabilia set the scene last night for the opening event in a year-long celebration of Central Otago's golden past.

Weeklong motorcycle event

Catherine Pattison — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

A group of keen Bannockburn motorcyclists have combined to show their area's on and off-road appeal through the inaugural Bike Week at Bannockburn.

Gallery packed for first showing of year

Ben Guild — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Oamaru's Forrester Gallery has enjoyed a bumper start to the new year, with more than 100 people cramming into the gallery last weekend to view works by Burns Pollock.

Steampunk outfits arrive

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

More new costumes have arrived at the North Otago Museum to be featured in the "Steampunk: Fabulous Fashions, Original Inspiration" exhibition.

Show promises to be back to its vintage best

Bill Campbell — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

The 129th Palmerston-Waihemo A and P Show is expanding, thanks to a report in the Otago Daily Times.

Trio rescued from lake 'like an ocean'

Marjorie Cook — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:34:00 +1300

Three men rescued from a broken down, waterlogged boat in strong winds on Lake Wanaka early yesterday are now teasing each other about the stories they could tell on each other at Jared Clarke's engagement party in Dunedin tomorrow.

Penny-farthing nearly ready to swing into action

Ben Guild — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:29:00 +1300

The Friendly Bay playground is set to take on a new look, as a 6m-high swing in the shape of a penny-farthing nears completion.

Bid for towed 10 fails

Marjorie Cook — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

A group of Balclutha water-skiers failed narrowly in their bid to get 10 or more skiers up behind a single boat on Lake Hawea on Wednesday.

Centenarian looks back on 'wonderful life'

Ben Guild — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Oamaru woman Rita Webster still has wheels on the eve of her 100th birthday.

Cable-tie creations set to wow Hong Kong crowds

Marjorie Cook — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Andi Regan's passion for spikey sunflower clocks and spiny sea creatures led to an unexpected obsession with plastic cable ties.

Wizened but not wise yet

Miranda Spary — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:26:00 +1300

Arrowtown book buyer Miranda Spary continues her regular column about her recommendations for a good read, and life as she sees it ...

Fokker D-8 for air show

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:37:00 +1300

An example of one of Germany's deadliest World War 1 fighters, a Fokker D-8 (or Flying Razor), will be make its first flight at this year's Warbirds Over Wanaka International Airshow.

Kindergarten expected to be open for term two

Lynda Van Kempen — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:29:00 +1300

The Maniototo Area School grounds will soon be an education hub for children aged from 2 through to 18.

What a ripper season

Nigel Benson — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:28:00 +1300

There are hidden depths to Dunedin's St Clair Salt Water Pool.

Date set for Kakanui camp ground hearing

David Bruce — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:28:00 +1300

The legality of the Kakanui Camping Ground is going back to a resource consent hearing with the Waitaki District Council early next month - the latest round in a dispute going back more than 15 years.

Boat club's home away from home

Olivia Caldwell — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

When yachting legend the late Sir Peter Blake visited the Gore Boat Club more than 15 years ago, he could not believe how many members it had for a town without a nearby lake.

Interest shown in business park

David Bruce — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Potential buyers are already showing a strong interest in a new business park in Oamaru, even though it has yet to be marketed.

5000 visit museum

Bill Campbell — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

The Waihemo museum at Palmerston has attracted more than 5000 visitors since it opened in January 2009.

Tussock theft prompts Doc warning

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

The Department of Conservation (Doc) is sending a strong message about stealing native plants after discovering as many as 50 tussocks have been removed from the Pisa Conservation Area near Wanaka.

Board backs rowing club's plans for Eely Point site

Lucy Ibbotson — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

The Wanaka Rowing Club is firming up plans to build its clubrooms at Eely Point, after the Wanaka Community Board gave its full support to the proposal this week.

Indecent exposure reports a concern

Marjorie Cook — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:29:00 +1300

Senior Sergeant Allan Grindell, of Wanaka, is increasingly concerned about the behaviour of a man or men reported walking naked on Mt Iron or behaving indecently in town, and is keen to put a stop to the behaviour as soon as possible.

Ngapara pools site checked for quality

Lynda Van Kempen — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:28:00 +1300

The next weapon is being wheeled out in the battle for improved water quality for Alexandra.

More seek to rent property

Helena de Reus — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:28:00 +1300

Balclutha property managers say rental properties are in high demand in the town, because more professionals and newcomers to the town want to rent.

Registrations are open for symposium

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Registrations are open for the National Wetland Restoration Symposium in Invercargill in March.

Assault victim still in coma

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

The victim of a serious assault in a Queenstown nightclub remained in an induced coma in Dunedin Hospital yesterday.

Slide talks continuing

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Parites involved in the arbitration surrounding the closed hydroslide attraction in Alpine Aqualand have met and "discussions are ongoing and positive progress has been made".

Airport noise dispute could end this week

Olivia Caldwell — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Queenstown Airport Corporation chief executive Steve Sanderson is confident the year-long dispute over airport noise will be settled by the end of the week, as involved parties head back to the Environment Court today.

Sixty years of 'just plain luck'

David Bruce — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Lindis and Hazel Courtney describe themselves as "an ordinary couple" and joke that their marriage of 60 years was due to "just plain luck".

Band and dancers fundraising

Olivia Caldwell — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:25:00 +1300

The Arrow Miners Band and Buckingham Belles are teaming up to go to Hokitika's Wild Foods festival this year.

Rental listing analysis out

Joe Dodgshun — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:25:00 +1300

It seems this summertime the living really is easy in Queenstown, with a 2% decrease in rent and a 7% increase in rental listings reported for the last quarter of 2011.

Yoga in the sun

Olivia Caldwell — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:25:00 +1300

Queenstown people show up in numbers for a yoga session on the Green with Rachel Land, of Lululemon, yesterday.

Foundation benefits from horse treks

Olivia Caldwell — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:25:00 +1300

The Ben Lomond Horse Trekking company is well on its way to raising $10,000 for the Breast Cancer Foundation since owner David Black decided to give all earnings for an entire year to the cause.

Detours in place during upgrade

James Beech — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:25:00 +1300

The $380,000 upgrade of the main road into Queenstown looks likely to cause detours during the peak tourist month of February and into early March.

Triathlon will attract athletes to Paradise

Olivia Caldwell — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:25:00 +1300

Since the late 1800s, Paradise, near Queenstown, has been the perfect retreat for people seeking tranquility, but on February 19 it will become a place of gruelling hard work as the third ActiveQT triathlon gets under way.

Exciting new bike events likely

Joe Dodgshun — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:25:00 +1300

Organisers of the Queenstown Bike Festival are working overtime as they prepare for the 2012 event in three months' time, bringing with it the possibility of some exciting new, spectator-friendly events.

Relishing 'larrikin mariner' role

Joe Dodgshun — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:25:00 +1300

With the region celebrating the 150th anniversary of the discovery of gold this year, Remarkable Theatre is joining in with a mixture of gold rush history and tall tales in its Queenstown Gardens production Greed, Glamour and Grudges - Tales of Gold. Joe Dodgshun speaks to a member of the cast about the pioneering Wakatipu character he plays.

Queenstown assault victim named, still in coma

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 15:10:21 +1300

Investigations are continuing into the serious assault of a 26-year-old man in Queenstown over the weekend.

Rules bent slightly for crowd favourite

Lucy Ibbotson — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

As the oldest competitor in the world to complete any of the Challenge series of long distance triathlons, 75-year-old Garth Barfoot had plenty to smile about in Wanaka at the weekend.

Man critical after Queenstown assault

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 16:25:55 +1300

A man is in a critical condition in an induced coma after an assault in Queenstown at the weekend.

New yoga retreat centre picked for appealing location

Olivia Caldwell — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Construction of Glenorchy's new Te Aroha retreat centre is set to begin at the end of the month. Otago Daily Times Queenstown reporter Olivia Caldwell asks one of the partners what happens at a retreat centre.

First response unit mooted for district

Debbie Porteous — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

St John is considering establishing a first response unit in Palmerston, in an effort to increase emergency response capabilities in the area, which is about 40 minutes by road from Dunedin.

Epic 'Smiles' bid to bring relief

Sarah Marquet — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 05:29:00 +1300

Seven years ago Alvaro Neil (44), of Oviedo, Spain, quit his job as a lawyer, told his girlfriend "don't wait", packed a clown costume and set off on his bicycle for Africa, and then the rest of the world, with an aim to bring a smile to the faces of those he thought needed it most.

Campaigners barred at site

Helena de Reus — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 05:29:00 +1300

Anti-lignite coal campaigners began arriving in Southland yesterday and many spent their first hours touring Solid Energy coal sites in the province.

Chairman still favours new swimming complex at Mosgiel

Chris Morris — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 05:29:00 +1300

An $11.5 million swimming complex at Mosgiel remains the priority project for the chairman of the Dunedin City Council's aquatic facilities working party, despite a staff report that seems to step back from the idea.

Glider crash site examined

David Bruce — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 05:29:00 +1300

The Civil Aviation Authority completed its on-scene investigation yesterday into the fatal glider crash near Omarama.

Clubroom site bid dropped

Lucy Ibbotson — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 05:28:00 +1300

The Wanaka Rowing Club has abandoned its controversial plans to build its clubrooms on lakeside public reserve at Stoney Creek in the face of legal challenges from objectors to the proposal.

Attack still investigated

Sat, 21 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Police yesterday confirmed that the attack a 26-year-old woman at the South Otago Hotel early last Sunday morning was sexually motivated.

Strengthening of court being assessed

David Bruce — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Work to strengthen the Oamaru courthouse against earthquakes is still expected to be completed by the end of the year, as the Ministry of Justice grapples with a timetable and priority for similar work at six other courts in New Zealand.

School's rich past lure for new rector

Ben Guild — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Paul Jackson took the "plum job" as Waitaki Boys' High School rector in November partly so he could immerse himself in the school's proud history.

Double the fun at Friendly Bay event

David Bruce — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Waitangi Day at the beach is the appeal of the Oamaru Harbour regatta and birdman competition to be held this year on February 6.

Work unlikely to cause disruption

Sat, 21 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Minor remedial work is being carried out on two Waitaki District Council buildings, but is not expected to cause major disruption.

Summer school inspiring sustainability

Ben Guild — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Books have been bound, bees kept, tools sharpened, bicycles adjusted and seaweed eaten at the Transition Oamaru and Waitaki District Sustainable Skills Summer School which started on January 14.

Chamber members warned

James Beech — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

Queenstown Chamber of Commerce president Alastair Porter has warned members they have little cause to expect an improvement in business this year.

Hydroslide meeting closed to public

James Beech — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 05:27:00 +1300

All parties involved in the ongoing arbitration surrounding Lakes Leisure's closed hydroslide appeared to have taken a vow of silence yesterday after an extraordinary meeting was held by the Queenstown Lakes District Council behind closed doors.

Flyer funds spent on advertising

Olivia Caldwell — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 05:23:00 +1300

Money raised and donated for the purpose of getting the Kingston Flyer back on its tracks has been spent, the man in charge of the fundraising endeavour said.

Glider wreckage to be removed after fatal crash

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 16:02:05 +1300

The wreckage of a glider that crashed on Wednesday, killing a Canterbury farmer, is to be removed from the crash site today.

1500km ride warm-up for triathlon

Lucy Ibbotson — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:39:00 +1300

If you think the athletes in tomorrow's Challenge Wanaka iron distance triathlon have it tough, then spare a thought for Hamish Taylor.

Friend saw fatal glider crash

David Bruce — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:30:00 +1300

A Hororata farmer and keen recreational gliding pilot has been named as the man killed when his glider crashed near Omarama on Wednesday.

Increase expected in Chinese visitors

James Beech — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:29:00 +1300

A record number of Chinese tourists are expected in Queenstown next week, thanks to greatly improved air access and operators' efforts to boost the resort's New Zealand market share, Destination Queenstown says.

Community house site clearance

Sarah Marquet — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:28:00 +1300

Work is under way to clear the site where the Alexandra Community House will be built.