Marjorie Cook

Queenstown businessman Steve Laing confirmed yesterday he was to take over the ownership of the Wanaka Speight's Ale House and Shooters Bar after negotiating their purchase from CEA Trading (in receivership).

Consent for Mt Barker residents Bill and Raelene Jelley's recently approved two-lot Mt Barker subdivision is to be appealed in the Environment Court.Consent for Mt Barker residents Bill and Raelene Jelley's recently approved two-lot Mt Barker subdivision is to be appealed in the Environment Court.

The first proposal to subdivide the recently rezoned Kirimoko block in Wanaka into residential housing has been received by Lakes Environmental planning staff but because it contains some non-complying elements, it needs to go to a public hearing.

Receivers are continuing to work their way through the sale process for three high-profile hospitality businesses in Wanaka, with the hope transactions can be concluded next month.

Aspiring has attracted stories of triumph and tragedy, sometimes involving the same characters.

Severe alpine weather forced a trio of climbers to call off a re-enactment of the first ascent of Mt Aspiring yesterday.

Cross-country skier Ben Koons is the second athlete to have met the Winter Olympics "A qualification" standard for February's games in Vancouver, Canada, after competition in Finland this week.

The sale of Grand Mercure Oakridge Resort is likely to be concluded soon, receiver Gordon Hansen, of Christchurch, confirmed yesterday.