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LAKES WEEKLY BULLETIN SUMMER EDITION 2025/2026

CONTENT

L A K E S W E E K LY B U L L E T I N

LAKE HAYES A&P SHOW PAGE 9

GOINGS ON PAGES 10-11

SUMMER GUIDE

PAGES 14-17

20-21

LIBRARY BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS PAGES 19

HIDDEN HOLIDAY GEMS PAGES 20-21

BIKING IN THE BASIN

22-23

PAGES 22-23

BROWSE THE MARKETS PAGES 24

USEFUL INFORMATION PAGE 25

JOB ADVERTS PAGES 25-27

DOWNLOAD THE APP NOW

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SUMMER EDITION 2025/26

Welcome! As the newly elected Mayor of the District, it’s wonderful to be able to send out our Christmas wishes to not only our residents but also the thousands of visitors that we’ll host over the holidays.

happy hour ALL SUMMER LONG

DAILY FROM 4-5PM

The common drawcard for us are the landscapes that we see on a day-to-day basis from our homes, on the bus or drive to get here or descending from a flight into ZQN. Even after living locally for over 25 years, I still stop, pause and take photographs as the cloud formations, sunrise, shadows on the hills or reflections in the lake provide a new perspective on those landscapes. For many of us, our day to day lives are busy, pressured, stressful and involve juggling ever tighter budgets as the cost of everything seems to outstrip our ability to pay for them. I know from many years of working in the hospitality sector that some of our tourism offerings are beyond the affordable reach of some of our locals and visitors. With that in mind, here’s a few of my top tips for affordable, restorative activities to consider over the holidays:1. Connect with nature – be that a walk through Queenstown Gardens, sitting by the Arrow River or exploring our magnificent forests with world class walking trails in our national park. Take the opportunity for a digital detox, breath, pause and slow down.

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2. Connect with each other – take time for a family or friends outing or picnic, share food around one of our waterfront BBQs and test the temperature of the lake on a sunny day. 3. Take the kids to the swimming pool at the Queenstown Events Centre. One of the most affordable family activities in the district and a great option if it’s raining! 4. Check out the Saturday markets at Remarkables Park and Earnslaw Park. Great for browsing, often with musical performances and family friendly locations. 5. Catch a bus! These are great value if you buy a Bee Card and provide opportunities to explore without having to use or hire a car. 6. Keep an eye out for the kids’ programmes at Te Atamira, Queenstown’s community arts and cultural space at Frankton just before Christmas and in the January school holiday period. 7. Don’t miss the New Year’s Eve countdown and fireworks at downtown Queenstown. 8. Work off the chocolate frenzy with a hike up Queenstown Hill. It’s free, informative and offers absolutely stunning views across the Basin. I’d like to end with a huge thank you to all of those who unsung heroes who will be working through the holiday period to keep us safe or provide the services needed for a busy holiday destination. You know who you are. John Glover QLDC Mayor

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L A K E S W E E K LY B U L L E T I N

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SUMMER EDITION 2025/26

Get everything you need to know for safe and happy summer vibes in the Queenstown Lakes District. From opening hours to responsible camping, bin days and everything in between.

Scan the QR code or visit qldc.govt.nz/summer-101

Exciting News! Gems Miro is now offering

delicious, nutritious cooked lunches

for our tamariki! Simply send morning and afternoon tea snacks from home, and we'll take care of a wholesome, balanced midday meal.

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Explore the latest at www.garyanderson.co.nz -5-

L A K E S W E E K LY B U L L E T I N I hope you’re having an enjoyable festive season, and thank you to those who are working through to keep the region running for the busy summer season. This time of year is all about family and friends as Parliament takes a break over January. For my part I need to be in Wellington for 33 weeks of the year, so am very much looking forward to time with my family, getting out in the hills and recharging after a busy 2025. The government has this year delivered has delivered on many of the policies we campaigned on during the election, and has been making significant structural changes to benefit New Zealand long term and closer to home here in Queenstown-Lakes. A major move locally has been the government entering negotiations for a Regional Deal with Otago Central Lakes (the areas of the Queenstown-Lakes District Council and Central Otago District Council).

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I’ve advocated strongly for this. It is one of only three in the country being negotiated, and the first in the South Island. Regional Deals present an opportunity for better co-ordination between agencies in central government with local government, as well as the private sector. It’s a chance for solution-oriented thinking and a co-ordinated response to the infrastructure challenges of our fast-growing region. Our local councils have the first opportunity in the South Island to shape this, and I’m keen to see how they develop that opportunity going forwards. Since the last election, I’ve led alongside QLDC and CODC mayors, local health professionals plus fellow MPs Miles Anderson and Todd Stephenson, a local group called The Otago Central Lakes Health Services and Assets Project. Southern Lakes Health Trust clinical advisor Dr Jez Leftley and health infrastructure specialist Helen Foot have also been major contributors to this. Our work has led to the Minister of Health directing Health NZ to undertake Clinical Services Planning for Otago Central Lakes - the first plan of this type for a region in decades. At a recent Health NZ public meeting about the plan, Health NZ stated that in preparing that plan they’ve identified a range of unmet needs, and spoke of up to 40,000 trips out of the region (usually to Dunedin or Invercargill) that don’t need to happen if the appropriate commissioning of services is allocated to inland Otago. Their clinical services plan has been delivered to the Minister of Health for consideration over the summer break.

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Other highlights this year include inflation falling more than half what it was under the previous government, and interest rates have been cut nine times. New classrooms were announced for students of Te Kura Whakatipu o Kawarau and the government confirmed land has been purchased for a new primary school at Ladies Mile in Queenstown. There have also been a number of major developments by local businesses. Two highlights were attending the opening of Cardrona’s new chairlift and ski area, and AJ Hackett Bungy’s new Kawarau Swing. Excellent examples of significant investment being made in and for our region. I also welcomed the Australian Prime Minister to Queenstown on behalf of the Government for the annual trans-Tasman Leaders’ Meeting with our Prime Minister, with Queenstown receiving glowing praise from PM Anthony Albanese, underlining the strong relationship New Zealand and Queenstown in particular has with Australia.

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Finally, rounding out the year has been the news a gondola running between Queenstown Airport and the town centre is one of six South Island projects added to the country’s latest 25 nationally significant infrastructure priorities. This has the potential to place both Queenstown and New Zealand on the map as the first in Australasia to use gondolas for public transport, something well proven and increasingly used around the world. It is another transport option for the basin that makes sense with our constrained geography and increasingly congested roads. Wishing you a great start to the New Year. Joseph Mooney

SUMMER EDITION 2025/26

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L A K E S W E E K LY B U L L E T I N

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An unforgettable adventure only 20 minutes from Queenstown’s CBD Daily rides for every ability, led by experienced guides who know these landscapes by heart. Immerse yourself in stunning alpine scenery as you explore breathtaking trails on horseback. Both group and private treks are available, or for something extra special, treat yourself to a Ride and Dine Picnic Experience or Bespoke Photography Package!

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SUMMER EDITION 2025/26

Don’t miss the 110th annual Lake Hayes A&P Show! Join us on Saturday, 10 January 2026, for the 110th annual Lake Hayes A&P Show. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Hayes, this iconic event is a true celebration of the Wakatipu region’s rural heritage and vibrant community spirit. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s something for everyone - from thrilling competitions to family-friendly activities. The Lake Hayes A&P Show boasts a rich history that dates back to its first event 109 years ago, held at Ayrburn Farm, which is now a partner of the Show. Originally created to promote excellence in farming and stock, the Show has evolved alongside the region, reflecting its transformation from a goldmining hub to an agricultural stronghold and, more recently, a world-renowned tourism destination. Despite these changes, the Show remains a cherished annual tradition, keeping the community’s agricultural roots alive. The day promises plenty of action with equestrian and livestock competitions, including impressive show jumping and livestock displays showcasing local talent. Families will love the Queenstown Airport, ZQN Kids Zone, packed with all-day entertainment, while the Swifty Farmzone offers interactive activities to keep the little ones busy.

For adults, the Ayrburn & Swifty Bar & VIP Tents are the perfect spot to relax, enjoy a drink, and soak in the Show’s lively atmosphere. Meanwhile, this year’s ‘Paddock to Pantry’ theme highlights our local food – from the farmers and growers who produce it, to the delicious creations that fill our pantries (and tummies). And to bring this theme to life, we’re excited to introduce the Lake Hayes Larder; a brand-new attraction to the show, with thanks to a new show partner, Duncan Cotteril Lawyers. The Lake Hayes Larder will be the ultimate foodie zone celebrating local artisan food and drink, including tasting stalls, interactive activities, special guests and live cooking demos. Make sure you don’t miss the crowd favourites - the Hobby Horse and Tug of War competitions - guaranteed to bring plenty of laughs and excitement! And, of course, no Show is complete without amazing food and refreshments. The Lake Hayes A&P Show is more than just an event - it’s a celebration of our community, rural traditions, and the best of local talent. Gather your family and friends, and come along for a fun-filled, memorable day!

Event details: When: Saturday, 10 January, 2025 Where: Lake Hayes Showgrounds, Queenstown Lakes District For more information, visit www.lakehayesshow.com or follow @lakehayesshow on social media.

Come along to a fun-filled day of thrilling competitions, family friendly entertainment and a celebration of rural life! All in the stunning surrounds of Lake Hayes.

10 JANUARY 2026 MARK YOUR CALENDARS! Adults: $15 | Children: $5 | Under 5s FREE! Carparking $15 | Park ‘n’ Ride from Five Mile: FREE! Bike Parking: FREE!

lakehayesshow.com Proudly supported by:

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L A K E S W E E K LY B U L L E T I N

Queenstown Bike Festival

Queenstown Bike Festival’s mission is to bring the community together through riding bikes and creating events that allow a space to have fun, learn new skills and compete in their epic biking events. They also want to increase awareness of all that Queenstown biking has to offer, and the ways in which it can beneﬁt people and our community. There’s a jam-packed schedule of 20 events including everything from pump track rides for kids and adults to social gravel group rides, the Coro 1200, dual slalom, and Mcgazzafest.

GOINGS ON ABOUT EVENTS - MUSIC - ART THEATRE - AT THE GALLERIES

When: Friday, 16 – Sunday, 25 January Where: Various locations around Queenstown

EVENTS Queenstown New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Bring in 2026 with a bang! Our New Year’s Eve celebrations are happening on the Queenstown waterfront, featuring live music, a family friendly atmosphere and spectacular ﬁreworks to welcome in the New Year. Pre-entertainment on Earnslaw Park, face painting and roaming entertainers from 2pm – 5pm, local band performances 7.30pm – 1am, DJ stage at Marine Parade from 9pm – 1am, ﬁreworks at midnight from the lake. When: Wednesday, 31 December, 2pm – 1am Where: Earnslaw Park, 78 Beach Street, Queenstown

Wānaka Rodeo

Get ready for the wildest event of the year! The Wanaka Rodeo is happening on January 2nd, 2026 and promises to be a thrilling day out for the whole family. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a horse lover, or just looking for some good old-fashioned fun, this is the hottest event on the calendar over the New Year period. We recommend arriving early to secure yourself a good spot because the bank ﬁlls up fast. Bring the whole crew and enjoy a day ﬁlled with excitement and entertainment. Food vendors and cash bars will be on site for you to enjoy. Come and support the incredible athletes as they compete in a variety of great rodeo events, we guarantee you’ll have a great time. There will be a free bus available from the rodeo back into Wānaka for a safe ride home. This will run at intervals after the rodeo. When: Friday, 2 January, 11am – 6pm Where: Wānaka Rodeo Grounds, Lake Hawea Alberttown Road, Wānaka

Jimmy Carr – Laughs Funny

If you like fast-paced, edgy one-liners then get ready to be happy. Jimmy Carr is going back on tour with his brand-new show ‘Jimmy Carr: Laughs Funny’. Jimmy tells jokes, and jokes are like magnets. Jokes attract people, but they can also repel. Some people are repelled by Jimmy’s dark brand of comedy. This show is not for them. But if it’s the kind of thing you like, then this is the kind of thing you’ll like. When: Friday, 9 January, 7pm and 9.30pm Where: Queenstown Events Centre, Joe O’Connell Drive, Frankton

Lake Hayes A&P Show

Town meets country in one of New Zealand’s most spectacular settings! The 110th Lake Hayes A&P show will be held at the Lake Hayes Showgrounds. This year’s theme, ‘Paddock to Pantry’, will shine a spotlight on our local food – from the farmers and growers who produce it, to the delicious creations that ﬁll our pantries (and tummies). This event is organised by the community, for the community. So gather a crew of family and friends for a celebration of rural life, agriculture and community spirit. Whether you’re passionate about farming, all about the horses, a keen foodie, or simply looking for a fun-ﬁlled family day, there’s something for everyone. When: Saturday, 10 January, 8am – 7pm Where: Lake Hayes Pavilion, 719 Gibbston Highway, RD 1, Queenstown If you would like your show, event, exhibition or meeting promoted in Goings On drop us a line at info@qmg.co.nz with the details

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2026 Arrowtown Burns Supper & Ceilidh

Round up your friends, get your glad rags and dancing shoes on for a traditional Celtic evening full of banter, craic, eating, drinking, and dancing. Enjoy a traditional three-course meal, lively entertainment, and then get ready for Queenstown’s own Hair of the Dog ceilidh band to ignite the dance ﬂoor, that’s when the real party kickstarts! Don’t worry if you’re new to ceilidh dancing, Ross the caller will guide you through each step, ensuring everyone can join in the fun, no experience required. When: Saturday, 24 January, from 5.30pm Where: Arrowtown Athenaeum Hall, 33 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown

The Ayrburn Classic 2026

A celebration of motoring heritage and innovation with a sophisticated festival vibe, set against the spectacular backdrop of one of New Zealand’s ﬁnest hospitality precincts. Marked a little earlier in the calendar this year, you can look forward to revelling in the warm, light conditions synonymous with late February in Otago. They’re taking things up a gear this time, too, with more cars, more exhibitors, more action, and most deﬁnitely more thrills. When: Saturday, 21 – Sunday, 22 February, 10am – 5pm Where: Ayrburn, 1 Ayr Avenue, Arrowtown

ARTS Angus Watson Queenstown Art Exhibition

Angus Watson is an Arrowtown artist with a beautiful love of colour that is reﬂected throughout his incredible works. His annual exhibition will run from Saturday, 3 January until Wednesday, 14 January, from his Arrowtown studio. He enjoys colour and exploring the joy of playing with that – putting one beside another to bounce off and make a stronger effect. He’s been painting for 35 years and loves welcoming people to come and see his work. When: Saturday, 3 January – Wednesday, 13 January, 10am – 5pm Where: 355 Littles Road, Daleﬁeld

MUSIC Th’ Dudes, Mockers, and Stellar* Live on The Dell

This summer, three of New Zealand’s most beloved bands are travelling the length of the country, and what tour would be complete without stopping at Ayrburn? It promises to be a reunion of the ages, so join Ayrburn in welcoming these iconic bands. When: Saturday, 3 January, 3pm Where: Ayrburn, 1 Ayr Avenue, Arrowtown

Carl Cox Live on The Dell

Carl Cox is back! Together with Audiology and George FM, Ayrburn are bringing the world’s most inﬂuential DJ here. Joined on stage by the internationally acclaimed Nicole Moudaber, this is one day out on The Dell that you will not want to miss. If 2025 was anything to go by these tickets will sell out in record time, so heat to Ayrburn’s website to secure yours today. When: Sunday, 15 February, 2pm – 8pm Where: Ayrburn, 1 Ayr Avenue, Arrowtown

SUMMER EDITION 2025/26

COMMUNITY Frisbee Golf Social Group

Come and join Happiness House for a relaxed morning of fun, fresh air, and connection. The Frisbee Golf Social Group meets on the ﬁrst and third Wednesday of each month, from 11am – 1pm. Starting at Happiness House then heading to the Queenstown Gardens for a friendly round of frisbee golf. Finish off by returning to Happiness House for a cuppa, cookies, and a chat. It’s all about getting outdoors, meeting new people, and enjoying some light-hearted activity together. Whether you’ve played before or it’s your ﬁrst time, everyone’s welcome – no experience (or perfect aim!) needed. When: Wednesday, 7 January, 9am – 11am Where: Happiness House, 4 Park Street, Queenstown

Altrusa Annual Charity Golf Tournament

The Annual Altrusa Charity Golf Tournament is coming up again on Sunday 11th of January. This tournament has supported charities operating in the Whakatipu for over thirty years! Proceeds this year will go to the Frankton Volunteer Fire Brigade. These volunteers are the ﬁrst-responders to emergencies throughout the Whakatipu Basin, including ﬁres, vehicle incidents and medical emergencies. Whilst Fire and Emergency NZ funds core equipment, our local volunteers have a need for further equipment to be able to best protect and serve our community. When: Sunday, 11 January, 8.30am Where: Kelvin Heights Golf Course, Kelvin Heights Golf Course Road

ACTIVITIES KJet - The Original Jet Boat Ride

Get ready for an epic 60-minute Queenstown Jet boat ride across three waterways travelling at speeds of up to 95kph in the fastest and meanest Jet boats in town. Blast across Lake Wakatipu and down the world-famous Kawarau and Shotover Rivers with 45km of unforgettable thrills, 360° spins and adrenaline in one of the world’s most stunning locations. Departing every hour on the hour from Central Queenstown, come and experience the world’s ﬁrst Jet boat ride with Kawarau Jet (KJet). There’s a reason they’ve been around for over 60 years… it’s in their blood! When: Daily, every hour from 9am Where: Main Town Pier, Queenstown or Frankton Marina, Frankton

Time Tripper

Queenstown’s only underwater theatre takes you on a journey through time and legend beginning many millions of years ago. Head down two ﬂights of stairs under Lake Wakatipu into our underwater observatory. The famous ﬁsh, diving ducks and slinky eels are visible until a large cinema screen descends and you begin your time travel journey. As you wait for the next time jump window to open, you’ll get to see the beautiful love story and Māori Legend of Lake Wakatipu. Your time travel pilot will guide you back 90 million years, ending in present day Queenstown, you then experience adventure activities you can do – all from the comfort of your rumbling seat! When: Daily, from 9am Where: Main Town Pier, Queenstown

Village Picnic Mystery Picnic

A thrilling self-guided day trip where you solve clues, uncover hidden gems, and take part in fun activities, all while collecting delicious, locally sourced artisan food for a picnic at a secret scenic location. It’s the perfect blend of a scavenger hunt and a gourmet picnic. Head to the Village Picnic website to book your spot. When: Daily Where: Various locations, exploring all around Queenstown

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SUMMER GUIDE 30 Dec - 5 Jan

1876 All Day, Everyday: $8 Tap Beer $7 Jagerbombs $8.50 House Spirits $8.50 House Wine

6 Jan - 11 Jan

Tue: $15 Bao Buns Wed: NYE | $15 Rump Steak Live Music with Marley 6pm DJ Mitch EP 8pm Thur: Live Music with John 6pm DJ Aidan 8pm Fri: Live Music with Mo 4.30pm DJ Stubacca 8pm Sat: Live music with TJ 5pm DJ Mitch EP 8pm | $15 Chef’s Special Sun: Live Music with Aidan 5pm $15 Spice Bags Mon: $15 Fried Rice

Tue: $15 Bao Buns Wed: $15 Rump Steak Thur: DJ Aidan 7pm | $15 Parmi Fri: Live Music with Mo 5pm DJ Stubacca 8pm $15 Burger & Fries Sat: Live music with TJ 5pm DJ Mitch EP 8pm $15 Chef’s Special Sun: Live Music with Aidan 5pm $15 Spice Bags Mon: $15 Fried Rice

30 Dec - 5 Jan

6 Jan - 11 Jan

Everyday: Café 1904 Coffee and Scone $10

Tue: Tight A$$ Tuesday with Mitch E.P.

Coffee and Bowls for $15 between 10am and 12pm

Wed: NYE | Charlie C 5-19 and Lenni Vibe 10 till late

Wed: Open Decks

Waipiata Pie and Bowls $25

Fri: Dolittle 10.30pm-late Sat: Chris Keen

Thur: Late Nights w Lenni Vibe Fri: Dolittle 10.30pm-late Sat: New Beginnings Volume 11

Sun: Revival Sunday Mon: Indie & Rock Mondays

Happy Hour Every Day from 7pm - 9pm

30 Dec - 5 Jan

6 Jan - 11 Jan

Tue: Double Points all night and DJ Mad from 9pm

Wed: NYE | Open Mic with Dave then DJ Jeremy til 4am

Wed: Open Mic with Dave 9pm til late

Thur: Tiago Live from 9pm

Thur: Jan Sean live from 9pm

Fri: Live music with Dave Arnold

Fri: Matthew Live 9-12 then DJ Rinkha til late

Sat: DJ Swarms all night Sun: DJ MAD @ 9pm Mon: Free wings (t&c) DJ Rinkha from 9pm

Everyday OPEN TO PUBLIC Everyone Welcome

Everyday: Bar 1904 Cocktail & Bowls $25 Happy Hour from 4pm to 6pm Beers and Bowls for $20 from 4pm to 6pm $8 Premium Beers, $8 Spirits & $10 Gibbston Valley Wine

Mon / Tue: Karaoke (with Wolfe) 9 pm Wed special: Mega kiwi burger & fries $20 Fish n Chips $20 Daily: Ribeye steak/salad & Fries $28 Chicken Parmi $25 | 2 for $40 Guinness $8.50 | $12 cocktails*/$10 Pints/$14 Jugs Sun: Sunday Roast $30

STRICTLY R18

Open from 4pm upstairs every day Happy hour all day every day

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

OPENING HOURS: 5pm – 4am - 7 DAYS A WEEK

30 DECEMBER - 11 JANUARY

Tue: $12 Classic Pizzas

Tue: Pizza Night 15% off large pizzas, dine in or takeaway

Wed: $10 Snakebite Pint Thur: Poker Night 6.30pm $25 Pizza & Beer $14 Margeritas

Wed: Quiz Night - Back from 14 January

Open 7 days per week - Proudly serving Fernhill & Sunshine Bay since 2021, 155 Fernhill Road

Gourmet Pizzas, BBQ platters & ribs, burgers, tap beers. Dine in & takeaway Happy Hour: Happy hour prices on house beers, wines and spirits | Mon - Thu 5-6pm | Fri - Sun 4-6pm Lunch BBQ platter: Friday to Sunday 12pm to 5pm, dine in or takeaway

Happy Hour 12-4pm every day $8 Pints

Fri: $14 Espresso Martinis Sat: $14 Cosmos | NRL, AFL, EPL Live Sun: $10 Snakebite Pints $14 Dark ‘N’ Stormys | UFC Live Mon: Singles Pool Comp 8pm $10 Entry includes Drink

30 Dec - 5 Jan Tue: The Mandates Band Live 9pm Wed: NYE! Live music all day with great view of fireworks!

30 Dec - 5 Jan

Thur: Danny Atkinson & Band! Live from 9pm 6 Jan - 11 Jan

Thur & Fri: DJ Mad from 9pm

Thur: DJ Stubacca

Sat: DJ Aidan from 9pm $10 Jagerbombs

Sat: DJ Aidan $10 Jagerbombs

Fri: DJ Mad

30 Dec - 5 Jan Tue: Karaoke from 9pm Wed: NYE & NYD DJs from 2pm to 2am on Queenstown’s Sunniest Rooftop What a spot to watch the fireworks from!!!! Fri: Live Music: Calico 5 - 8 followed by DJs till late Sat: Live Music: Tiago 5 - 8 followed by DJs till Late Sun: $9 House drinks 4pm - 6pm, 7 days a week Mon: Parmy & Pint deal all day $30

Fri: Calico Trio Live 9pm

6 Jan - 11 Jan Tue: Brett Walker Live 8.30pm Wed: Danny Atkinson Live 8.30pm Thur: Calico Live 8.30pm Fri: Calico Trio Live 9pm Sat: Black Pug Band from 9pm!

Sat: Turtle Funk Live 9pm Sun: Irish Trad Session, any musicians welcome to join from 6pm!

Sun: Irish Trad Session, any musicians welcome to join from 6pm! Sunday Roast from 12 noon!

Mon: Je Marco Live 8.30pm!

6 Jan - 11 Jan Tue: Karaoke from 9pm Wed: Steak & Pint $33 all day

Mon: 2 for 1 pizza night

Thur: Sunset Sessions with JBOO – Aperol Specials

Wed: $35 Steak Night

Fri: Live Music: Calico 5 - 8 followed by DJs till late

Everyday: Free parking for dining guests

Sat: Live Music: Tiago 5 - 8 followed by DJs till Late

Balcony Bar - 3pm - 7pm Open Fri - Sat Only

Sun: $9 House drinks 4pm - 6pm, 7 days a week Mon: Parmy & Pint deal all day $30

Fri: $1 Chicken Wings

Crowne Plaza, Ground Floor, 93 Beach Street, QT

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SUMMER GUIDE 30 Dec - 5 Jan

6 Jan - 11 Jan

Tue: All-Day Ice Skating - 10am-6pm

Tue: Rent a Frisbee for the QT Gardens course for only $6.50 each! Wed: Snow Machine - every 30 min

Thur & Fri: Closed for Public Sessions

Thur: Ice Bumper Cars - every 15min

Sat: New Years Night Skate Disco Games & Prizes from 6.15pm-7.30pm

Wed: Karaoke 9pm (Wolfe)

Fri: Attention Hockey Players - Stick & Puck from 6.15pm-7.15pm

Sat: DJ Rinkha - 10pm

Sun: Bump, Skate & Frisbee in a Winter Wonderland from 10am-6pm

Sat: Ice Skating Disco Night with Games & Prizes from 6.15pm-7.30pm

Mon: School Holidays are on - Bump & Skate from 10am-6pm

Sun: Bump, Skate & Frisbee All-Day from 10am-6pm

Everyday: Guinness $8.50

Sun: Lamb Roast $30

KIWI BURGER/fries - $20 Rib Eye/salad & fries - $28

Mon: All-Day Ice Skating with Snow Machine every 30min from 10am-6pm

Fish n Chips - $25 Full Meal options now available from 5pm

30 Dec - 5 Jan

Mon/Tue: RR Burger & Pint for $28 ALL DAY GF/Veg Available

EVERYDAY 8am - 9am - Coffee Happy Hour 50% off when you byo keep cup Happy Hour 3 - 5pm

Wed: Philly-Cheesesteak Chips/Hog Chips & Pint for $30 OR Loaded Chips & Pint for $24 ALL DAY

$6 Beer handles 7 days a week Open 12pm to Late Everyday

Sat: Crossy from 9pm

Thur: Parmi Burger & Pint for $30 ALL DAY GF/Veg Available

6 Jan - 11 Jan EVERYDAY 8am - 9am - Coffee Happy Hour 50% off when you byo keep cup

Fri: Spice Bag & a Pint for $26 ALL DAY GF/Veg Available

30 Dec - 5 Jan Tue: Silent Disco | 3 DJ’s 3 Channels - Free Entry $25 Special - Beef Quesadilla Wed: NYE $25 Special - Cheese Steak Burger

EVERYDAY Happy Hour from 4-6pm & 10-11pm

Wed: NYE starts 7pm

Thur: DJ Mitch EP $25 Special - Birria Nachos Fri: Mashed | $25 Special - BBQ Ribs Sat: Garden Party Sun: DJ Danny Atkinson starts 5pm DJ Sarge from 9pm Mon: Mad Mondays - DJ Mad from 9pm

Happy Hour 3 - 5pm Sat: Uplift from 6pm A Joe Satriani Tribute start 9pm

6 Jan - 11 Jan Tue: QUIZ NIGHT - bar tab prizes - from 7pm | $25 Special - Beef Quesadilla Wed: Silent Disco | 3 DJ’s 3 Channels - Free Entry $25 Special - Cheese Steak Burger

Daily: COCKTAIL HAPPY HOUR 9pm - midnight

Thur: DJ Mitch EP $25 Special - Birria Nachos

Tap beers: 5 draft beers to choose from

Fri: Mashed from 9pm $25 Special - BBQ Ribs

$9 FROZEN MARGARITA

Sat: Face2Face from 9pm

$9 FROZEN DAIQUIRI

Sun: Reclaimed Threads from 12pm DJ Sarge from 9pm

LATE NIGHT MENU ASIAN FUSION EVERYDAY UNTIL MIDNIGHT

Mon: Mad Mondays - DJ Mad from 9pm

Monday to Sunday: 3pm - 12am

Our smokin’ hot adult entertainers are the best in the biz, and we have a range of steamy in-club and at-your-event options available just for you! From 9pm – 4am | Thurs, Fri, Sat | 12B Church Street, Queenstown | Ph 021 949 449 | www.calendargirls.co.nz

STRICTLY R18

Wed: NYE fun - Ice Skating, Ice Bumper Cars & Frisbee Golf from 10am-6pm

30 DECEMBER - 11 JANUARY 6 Jan - 11 Jan 30 Dec - 5 Jan

Mon-Sat: Open from 1pm daily. 19 craft beers on tap, QMTBC & HIVE PASS discounts! New food menu available Thur-Sat from 2pm. Freshly made pizzas, burgers, fries and Searchlights special IRISH SPICE BAG!

Tue: Open from 1pm with 19 delicious beers on tap, a cozy taproom and a beautiful sunny beer garden Wed & Thur: Closed

Wed: Darts & Beers Social Games Night! From 6pm. Free Entry.

Fri: PIZZAS!! BUY ONE GET ONE FREE 5pm-9pm! No open mic this week. Returns 9 January!

Thur: Queers & Beers Rainbow Social! Judgement free space. 6-9pm

Sat: Open from 1pm with 19 delicious beers on tap, a cozy taproom and a beautiful sunny beer garden!

Fri: QTs best open mic with Elle & Alex! From 6.30-9.30pm. Free drink for all performers!

Sun: Closed on Sundays for now but watch this space!

Sat: COMING SOON! Huge summer weekend events on their way, fresh food and delicious craft beer pouring always!

Tue: TACO TACO - HALF PRICE TACOS UNTIL 9pm Wed: WING IT WEDNESDAYS HALF OFF WINGS UNTIL 9pm SMOTHERED OR DRY RUBBED | 21 FLAVOURS Thur: BIG DAWG DAY HALF OFF BIG DAWGS UNTIL 9pm

All sports All day Live & loud Open from 12pm

Fri: BURGER DEAL $2 OFF ANY BURGER - 12pm - 5pm Sat: BREWDAY $5 OFF SELECTED JUGS - 12pm - 5pm Sun: CAESAR SUNDAYS $2 OFF CAESARS & BLOODY MARYS - ALL DAY LONG Mon: TRIVIA NIGHT - Every Monday at 6.30pm $200 Total Bar Tabs for 1st & 2nd Place!

Daily: $6 Coffee & Cake - from 11am Wed: $25 Steak Special - from 12pm – 4pm Daily: Happy Hour - 4pm – 6pm $10 House beer & wine $16 Cocktails Sun: $29 Parmi Special From 12pm – 4pm R20 Venue. Drink Responsibly.

Tue: Live Music with Eby 9pm $15 Burger Special - Southern Bell

Live Music 7 Nights a week - Now open 12pm daily with gaming lounge - Happy Hour 3pm to 6pm Daily - $10 House Drinks

$10 Guinness all day, every day $6 Summer of Speights + Live Sports All Week

Wed: NYE Live Music with Shay’s Band 8pm DJ George Gray from midnight $15 Burger Special Bacon Me Crazy

QUEENSTOWN

Thur: Live Music with Dave Bell 8pm $15 Burger Special O’Fish Al

Daily: $20 Lunch Special

Fri: Live Music with Danny Atkinson 9.30pm 15 Burger Special Classic Cheese Sat: Live Music with Mandates 9.30pm Sun: Live Music with Eby 9pm Mon: Live Music with TJ 9pm $15 Burger Special – Streaky Cow

$35 Steak Night Famous Sunday Roast $30 Limited availability, booking essential! Quote ROASTS Also serving Lamb Shanks, Blue Cod and other delicious southern classics

30 Dec - 5 Jan

6 Jan - 11 Jan

Tue: Pub quiz - 7pm

Wed: NYE PARTY! Chicken Parmy, chips, & salad - from 12pm - $25 Live music from 5pm

Wed: Chicken Parmy, chips, & salad - from 12pm - $25 Live music from 5pm Karaoke 9pm

Thur: Any burger & chips - from 12pm - $22 Live music from 5pm Tools Down Thursday - FREE sausage sizzle and $10 Weekly Drink Credit, 4pm

Fri: Live music - 5pm

Sat: Live music from 5pm

Sun: Sunday Roast | Live music from 2pm

Mon: 200gm wagyu rump, chips, salad & sauce - from 12pm - $25 Hospo Night - Late Night Happy Hour + Free Pool

QLDC Libraries Book Recommendations Kia Ora!

@qldclibraries

Straight from your local librarians to your summer to-be-read list! We’ve put together a mix of genres and styles to keep you company over the holidays — there’s something here for everyone!

Queenstown Lakes District Libraries

Book recommendations: The Names - Florence Knapp

Wild Dark Shore - Charlotte McConaghy A gripping dystopian thriller set on the ﬁctional Shearwater Island near Antarctica. The story follows Dominic Salt and his three children, the last remaining inhabitants of an island that houses the world’s largest seed bank. As rising sea levels threaten their home, the family battles to protect the vault while navigating personal trauma and profound isolation. Everything shifts when a mysterious woman, Rowan, washes ashore, bringing secrets that could change everything. Librarian note:

A stunning debut exploring the power a single name can hold over a family’s future. Cora must choose whether to name her newborn son after her abusive husband, Gordon, or carve out a new path for herself. The novel unfolds across three parallel timelines, each one following a different version of the child - Bear, Julaind, and Gordon. Librarian note: A beautifully written, utterly “unputdownable” read.

Action-packed with fantastic character work. Perfect if you’re in a reading slump — this one hooks you from page one. I couldn’t put it down!

Gaylene’s Take: Her Life in New Zealand Film - Gaylene Preston A remarkable memoir from one of Aotearoa’s most celebrated ﬁlmmakers. Gaylene Preston reﬂects on her life and career with compassion, humour, and her signature irreverence. From her childhood in 1950s Greymouth to working in a psychiatric institution in England, to interviewing her tight-lipped father about his wartime experiences, Preston shares the stories behind the stories.

Lessons on Living: Finding Your Way Through Life’s Ups and Downs - Nigel Latta

Librarian note:

What do you do when you’re told you only have months to live? If you’re Nigel Latta, you start with a lot of ice cream. From there, the NZ author, broadcaster, and clinical psychologist builds a practical psychological toolkit to help readers navigate life’s challenges with resilience, clarity, and humour. Latta’s wisdom isn’t just for tough times - it’s equally useful for parenting, building an empire, or simply getting through the everyday.

A brilliant chance to get to know one of NZ’s great storytellers - someone dedicated to telling our stories.

In high demand - make sure you’re next in the queue!

Summer Island - Kristin Hannah From the acclaimed author of The Women and The Nightingale, this novel delves into the complicated bonds between mothers and daughters. Nora walked out on her marriage and left her daughters behind, later becoming a beloved radio talk-show host and columnist known for her moral advice. Her youngest daughter, Ruby - a struggling comedienne who mines their fractured relationship for material - has been estranged from her for nearly a decade. When tabloids expose a scandal from Nora’s past and a glossy magazine offers Ruby a fortune to write a tell-all, she returns home under false pretences. After an accident, Nora retreats with Ruby to Summer Island, where Ruby is reunited with her ﬁrst love and his brother - once her closest friends, until the summer everything fell apart. Librarian note: Flying off our shelves - place your hold now!

Librarian note:

Same great service in a new location Book an appointment today! 17 Neason Place Cromwell Central Otago

Cell: 0274-455-925 email: info@creativeframing.co.nz www.creativeframing.co.nz

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L A K E S W E E K LY B U L L E T I N

Hidden Holiday Gems Backcountry escapes on a budget

by Sue Fea

With the cost of living crisis still biting, holidays can be out of the question for many families, but if you’re heading to, or live in, the Queenstown Lakes, Central Otago region, there’s a way not to break the bank. After a year of busy bustle and business pressures, sometimes it’s just nice to turn off the mobile phone and head to the hills, exploring the beautiful backcountry, and it will barely cost a cent. While huts on the Great Walks can be in high demand through the summer months, there are many largely unknown backcountry huts, amid incredibly beautiful scenery, managed by DOC in the region, some more challenging to get to and others easily accessed and family friendly. Spectacular landscapes from high alpine tussock lands and mountain peaks to native beech forests and pristine clear waters, it’s pretty much all right on our doorstep. Making the most of these huts is a very cheap and affordable way to get out and experience some of our more untouched wilderness areas. Some of them are free, and in many cases there’s no need to book - it’s first come, first served, though so it’s best to carry a tent just in case. For those that require you to pay a small fee, buy can buy hut tickets from DOC Whakatipu-wai-Māori, Queenstown Visitor Centre on Stanley Street downtown, or Ballantyne Road, Wānaka, or Macpac and Kathmandu local stores. Put the tickets in the honesty box at the hut. Or buy a Backcountry Hut Pass that gives unlimited use at most Standard and Serviced huts for a 12-month period. Here are a few of our best kept local secrets.

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Meg Hut

8 bunks, $10 adults, $5 youth, infants free Bookings not required At 1100m this is an easy level, two-hour walk from the Snow Farm Access Road up a four-wheel drive track – a nice, easy overnight backcountry experience, only requiring a short drive from Queenstown. You can return to Tuohys Gully on a small circuit, via the Roaring Meg Stream. For the more adventurous, there’s a three to four-hour (13km) option, follow the Roaring Meg gorge down to the Roaring Meg Power Station in the Kawarau Gorge, or take the six or seven hour tramp (16kms) over the tops on the Lowburn Pack Track. Warm, windproof clothing is essential, even in summer, and this is great mountain biking territory too. There’s heating, water from a stream, and mattresses.

McIntyre Hut

5 bunks, $10 adults, $5 youths, infants free Bookings not required Part of the McIntosh Loop Track, turn off 2kms before Glenorchy on the QueenstownGlenorchy Road to start the hike at the Whakaari Car Park, from which it’s a three-tofour hour walk through steep country. There’s mattresses, untreated tap water and longdrop toilets.

Kay Creek Hut

4 bunks, free, bookings not required A two-day hike up the Caples Flat to Mid-Caples this too is for the advanced, following Kay Creek and landing you near the Mid-Caples Hut and McKellar Hut on the Greenstone-Caples Track. It’s a great place to stop for those crossing from Scott Basin through Death Valley to Kay Creek (no marked route), or just a good base to explore the area. Once dilapidated, this hut was done up by Otago University PE students a few years back. A remote area, don’t expect too many passers-by on this one. There’s untreated tap water and long-drop toilets. Anyone heading into the backcountry should heed DOC’s Tiaki Care Code and respect our pristine lands: Be prepared, Protect Nature, Keep NZ clean, Show respect and hut etiquette. See: www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/know-before-you-go.

SUMMER EDITION 2025/26

Cameron Flat Campsite

Lake Sylvan Campsite

This is a spacious DOC camping and picnic area with stunning views of the Brewster Valley and beautiful Makarora River. There are 30 non-powered tent sites and bookings are essential. There’s a wealth of beautiful bush walks, great fishing, hunting and tramping here, a few minutes up the road from Makarora Township on the road to Haast and the West Coast. It’s a great base from which to walk the short track to the beautiful, deep, clear waters of the Blue Pools for a nice cool swim. The Blue Pools Track starts opposite Cameron Flat Campsite off the state highway. It’s an easy short walk through mature beech and podocarp forest which leads to the fascinating natural wonder of this pure glacial water gathered from the mountains.

Here you can camp beside the clear, pristine waters of the Routeburn River. It’s accessed from the Routeburn Track but unfortunately the bridge beside the campsite has been removed after it was destroyed by floods. That cuts off the campsite from the lake, as well as the Beans Burn, Sugarloaf / Rock Burn Track and Lake Sylvan Track. The Routeburn River can be a hazardous river crossing in the area of the removed bridge and DoC advises that inexperienced trampers should not attempt this crossing. Good spot for fly fishing though. There’s untreated tap water and long-drop toilets. No dogs allowed as it’s part of the Mount Aspiring National Park. No fires either.

(standard DOC campsite) 30 non-powered/tent sites, $10 adults, $5 youths, infants free. Bookings required

St Bathans Campsite

(basic DOC campsite) Free. Bookings not required

Photos: DOC website

Dynamo Hut, Skippers

4 bunks, $10 adults, $5 youth, infants free Bookings not required This one’s kid friendly and packed with intriguing mining history. It’s a three-hour walk to the hut from the historic Skippers Cemetery up Skippers Creek to a junction at Mount Aurum Recreation Reserve. Behind the hut are historic mining relics like the dynamo – an old gold mining historic feature. The Terrace above the Shotover River is also home to the restored Skippers School and there are interesting remains dotted about from the original Skippers settlement, home to several thousand people during the gold rush days. Explore the old Bullendale Hydro Mine behind the hut, the first site in the Southern Hemisphere to transmit electricity over a distance. There are numerous stream crossings on this one and there’s always a beautiful array of lupins lining the banks. Brilliant on a hot summer’s day. There’s tap water but it’s not treated, so boil before use. There’s also heating and mattresses.

Mid-Caples Hut

Serviced 24 bunk hut, $25 adults, $12.50, infants free. Bookings required - book online at www.doc.govt.nz A less advanced track this one’s five-star when you’re going bush. A new spacious hut with double glazing and a fire serviced with coal by the resident ranger There’s the added luxury of flush toilets and even toilet paper! There’s tap water but it’s not treated, so boil before use. The bunks have mattresses. Views are stunning and there are some epic swimming holes in the Caples River. Kinloch Road was washed out recently, but there’s now a detour road through a paddock.

A delightful, quiet rural setting, St Bathans campsite offers a great base from which to explore the beautiful Blue Lake and Blue Lake Recreational Reserve, and remains of its early 1873 gold sluicings. The quaint historic township of St Bathans offers a peaceful escape in the heart of sunny Central Otago. For safety reasons, DOC recommends not camping under the trees at this campsite. Dogs are allowed here too. There’s access by car and campervan, with nine non-powered / tent sites. Fires are not permitted. There’s untreated tap water, and long-drop toilets.

(standard DOC campsite) 36 non-powered / tent sites, $15 adults, $7.50 youths, infants free. Bookings required - book online at www.doc.govt.nz

McIntosh Hut

4 bunks, free, bookings not required Not so easy on the way to Glenorchy and part of the McIntosh Loop Track in the Whakaari Conservation Area, reaching this hut is quite a climb – the highest in the Wakatipu, and at 1500m it’s for the advanced hiker. It’s a basic / bivvies hut but has a water supply and toilets. One thing to note, the Whakarri is an unsafe water source due to heavy metals from historic mining, and filtering or boiling the stream water does not remove the contamination. McIntosh hut - views of Mount Earnslaw Pikirakatahi and Mount Alfred - Ari in the back Photo: Ana Macri

Skippers Campsite

(standard DOC campsite) 36 non-powered/tent sites, $10 adults, $5 youths, infants free. Bookings required This is a standard campsite within the Queenstown-Wakatipu area. Set up camp within the scenic rocky natural features on the Skippers Terraces amid some of the region’s richest gold mining history, alongside the historic Skippers Cemetery and restored Skippers School. A perfect base from which to bike, walk, tramp or hunt and explore the wider area. Dogs are allowed here providing they’re on a lead. There’s untreated tap water and flush toilets. Be prepared for some unwelcoming sand flies and mosquitos if venturing into many of these backcountry areas. Take plenty of good insect repellent!

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Coronet Loop. Photo: Geoff Marks

Biking in the Basin Queenstown is quickly becoming a world-renowned biking destination. There is riding to suit every ability and type of rider, from lakeside family-friendly trails to backcountry singletrack epics. If you love riding bikes, then you will love summer in Queenstown.

Wharehuanui Trail

Time: 2-2.5 hours Level: Easy (Grade 2) Distance: 13km one way

With hundreds of kilometres of trails throughout the Whakatipu Basin, you’ll be able to find somewhere to ride within easy reach of your home or summer holiday accommodation. The interconnected nature of the Queenstown Trails Network means you can link up several trails, to make your biking adventure as leisurely or a long as your heart desires.

The Wharehuanui Trail is Queenstown’s newest trail and has only been open since October. It runs between Arthurs Point and Arrowtown, following the foothills of Coronet Peak and linking to the mountain bike tracks and the Coronet Loop. Begin (or finish) at Gantley’s Tavern in Arthurs Point, heading east besides Arthurs Point Road, and across Littles Road into the undulating terrain below. The trail works its way back towards Malaghans Road, before crossing over and heading towards the foothills of Coronet Peak.

The expanding network also allows you to stitch together sections of the Queenstown Trail with more technical mountain biking tracks in order to tailor a ride to suit your taste and ability. The addition of backcountry trails expands the repertoire of cycling offerings, allowing the curation of day-long or multi-day adventures.

A gentle climb up the switch backs brings you to the bottom of the Carry On mountain biking trail, with gorgeous views of the Whakatipu Basin and surrounding peaks. The trail winds in and out of the foothills along the base of Coronet, before reaching the Kuperus Crossing and the Dan O’Connell hub, with access to the epic flow trails on Coronet’s front Face (see above, right).

Queenstown Trails is on a mission to keep enhancing the world-class trail network in the Whakatipu Basin, for both locals and visitors; transforming what it is like to live, work and play in the Whakatipu Basin, facilitating conservation initiatives and playing a vital role in working towards the region’s carbon-zero goals.

Head along Coronet Peak Station Road and rejoin the off-road trail at the southern end. The Wharehuanui Trail then follows Malaghans Road to the east, before crossing the carriageway and heading down to the tranquil oasis of Mill Creek Reserve, perfect for walking with kids, or stopping for a picnic.

Queenstown Trails relies on the support of trail users and trail lovers to help fund the work they do. If everyone who used the trails donates as little as $5 year, the future of the trails will be safe guarded. All the details on Queenstown’s many trails are on the website - www.queenstowntrails.org.nz - along with information about what’s coming next, conservation initiatives, and how to get involved.

The trail continues into Millbrook before joining the Countryside Trail at Streamside Lane. From here you can continue through Millbrook Resort to the east to reach Arrowtown, or head south towards Lake Hayes. The trail provides an opportunity to see some of the extensive conservation efforts by Mana Tahuna and the Wakatipu Reforestation Trust, including the Mill Creek / Lake Hayes restoration project. Wharehuanui Trail. Photo: Geoff Marks

SUMMER EDITION 2025/26

Dan O’Connell Climb / Morning Glory / Hot Rod Time: 1-1.5 hours Level: Grade 3 (Intermediate MTB Flow Trail) Distance: 12km

Morning Glory. Photo: Geoff Marks

While the Wharehuanui Trail provides some Grade 2 riding for all abilities, the linked mountain bike trails are for the enthusiasts, with intermediate grade 3 and 4 thrills. The Daniel O’Connell Climb is a gentle ascent, while Morning Glory and Hot Rod boast some of the most beautifully built flow trails in the Whakatipu Basin. Built by Queenstown Trails and maintained by the Queenstown Mountain Bike Club, these trails are the result of an awesome collaboration. Morning Glory is super fun and flowy with great berms and rollable jumps. Turn left at the bottom of Morning Glory to link into the top of Hot Rod for the most insanely fun intermediate Grade 3 flow trail you’ll ever ride with non-stop berms, safe jumps and epic views over Queenstown. Coronet Peak is one of Queenstown’s most iconic mountain biking spots. If early morning riding tickles your fancy, the mountain gets amazing sunrises and is the home to some of Queenstown’s most loved trails, as well as a ski field in winter. There are also links to the recently repaired Coronet Face Water Race, which descends Bush Creek into Arrowtown, as well as the Coronet Loop which is currently getting its spring maintenance thanks to the efforts of Queenstown Trails, QEII and Mahu Whenua Open Space Covenants.

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Frankton Track & Kelvin Heights Sculpture Trail Time: 2-3hrs Level: Easy (Grade 2) Distance: 16.4km

Frankton Track forms the start of the Queenstown Trail Great Ride. The trail is relatively flat, and an easy ride (or longer walk) with wide trails and is ideal for families with young children, or those new to cycling. There are plenty of playgrounds, beaches, picnic, and swimming spots – something for the whole family to enjoy. Begin at the Queenstown Gardens entrance near the Bathhouse on Marine Parade and follow the signposted path that borders the lakefront, offering beautiful views over Frankton Arm to the Remarkables. Stop at Frankton Marina for a coffee at the Boatshed Café or craft beer at Altitude Brewing and continue on to Frankton Beach. The trail then continues to the historic Kawarau Falls Bridge before continuing past the Hilton Hotel and along the Kelvin Peninsula. The trail winds along the lakefront with numerous beaches, picnic, and swimming spots with great views. Towards the top of the Kelvin Peninsula, Kelvin Grove offers another playground, BBQ facilities, and a sheltered beaches for swimming on the lake.

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Remarkables Astrology

Email office@remarkablesastrology.co.nz www.remarkablesastrology.co.nz

Return to Queenstown via the same route, or be collected by one of the Bike Taxi operators. Family leisure biking - Queenstown Gardens

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L A K E S W E E K LY B U L L E T I N

Browse the markets With demand for sustainability, and customers opting for seasonal and local, the many free market days operating around the Queenstown Lakes region are increasingly becoming a destination day out. While some offer the traditional Farmers’ Market style with delicious fresh produce, flowers, fruit and berries, markets also provide the perfect local showcase for the region’s amazingly talented artists and craftspeople. We investigate the summer line-up at our local free market days.

Remarkables Market

Arrowtown Market

Saturdays, 9am – 2pm Live music

Sundays, 10am – 2pm Live Music

A popular Saturday market, Remarkables Market is going all out to celebrate summer. From its beginning in 2010, they’ve had a sustainability focus and continue work on their ‘Journey Towards Zero Waste’ finding new ways to reduce and remove items from the waste stream. The market’s ethos means there’s no takeaway cups, repurposed pergolas, and the playground is recycled from the lakefront, all surrounding the Red Barn – a renovated aircraft hangar.

Set under beautiful established trees opposite Arrowtown’s historic Miners’ Cottages, the Arrowtown Market is a small boutique market aiming to showcase the best food, art and crafts that the region has to offer. There’s great street food and delicious desserts on offer including Crispy Crepe, Japanz Kitchen, Baking Nomad, Formosa Fried, Jeanny’s Coffee and Muchas Empanadas.

Stallholders fit into two main categories – craft and food. Some examples of what you can find include A Little Twisted – knitted wire decor that is 100% handmade using cotton, yarn and wire. A range of shapes and words, and you can place a custom order. There’s also artist Andrew Nicholson, who offers framed, original watercolour paintings, mostly of wildlife, birds and landscapes, Akwaaba NZ, who offer West African handmade products that display the natural colours of Africa and The Fibre Collective, where you can get high-quality oneof-a-kind hand woven garments and homewares made from quality natural fibres. Over the holiday period the market will continue to run every Saturday. Remarkables Market averages more than 3000 people a week through the gates over the holidays.

Committee chair Sarah Auld says most vendors are local, or use local materials, and there’s a big emphasis on recycling and repurposing in the crafts on offer. The market’s had to pivot since 2019 and has re-emerged stronger than ever, offering everything from felt craft using local wool, candles and photography to stunning copper art, wonderful woodwork and art using local stones. With a great line-up of local bands and performers, there’s also often a bit of boogie under the trees.

Wānaka Artisan Market Thursday, 3pm – 6pm Nestled alongside Wānaka’s Bullock Creek in front of Speight’s Ale House, the Wānaka Artisan Market features all manner of quality craft, including homespun knitwear, pottery, wooden household products and jewellery to local stone fruit and berries. Badges are made while you wait and Mount Aspiring College students regularly run a stand selling wares produced during their entrepreneurial studies. Kawakawa creams, oils and teas are on offer among the 15 or so stalls, with out of town vendors arriving periodically too, selling the likes of pear juice from Nelson. President and potter John Kalb says the Christmas Market will be much larger than normal with a wider variety of products, hopefully including an ice cream stand, with salsas, elderflower cordials and greenstone dishes and jewellery from Haast. “There will be a wealth of great gift ideas so everybody’s encouraged to come along and enjoy the wonderful Christmas atmosphere,” says John.

Queenstown Markets Saturdays, 9am – 4pm and in summer, every other Friday, 9am – 4pm Live music

representative says in addition to the core vendors, frequently there are guest vendors arriving in from out of town with interesting new offerings. “We have a regular vendor from Dunedin and special one-offs like a recent stall-holder from Wellington, but most of the stalls feature local crafts,” she says. “Everything on offer is hand-crafted. We’re very much an artisan market, with everything from beautiful hand-sewn leather bags, pottery art, and copper work to sheepskin, possum skin and rabbit fur slippers and gloves.” A local jeweller sells gold, silver and copper jewellery with intricately woven precious stones, while a local clothing manufacturer sells amazing fleece and cotton pullovers, dungaree gear-style clothing and bucket hats, all made locally.

The long-standing Queenstown Bay lakefront market, is fast becoming an iconic destination market, featuring a maximum of 60 stalls offering all manner of high-quality creations and gift ideas. A market

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Fun fruit-shaped candles, vases, framed creative photography, and works from local artists all grace the waterfront, alongside adults’ and children’s merino clothing. “It’s a very eclectic market,” the market rep says. There’s always something fresh, new and fun.”

SUMMER EDITION 2025/26 LAKES WEEKLY BULLETIN LAKES WEEKLY BULLETIN | 30 December 2025 11 January 2026 Page 25 30 December 2025 - 11 January 2026

USEFUL INFORMATION

Ph: 03 409 2800 enquiries@qmg.co.nz jobfix.co.nz

VACANCIES VACANCIES

Sometimes, we all need a helping hand. Whether it’s an emergency, a doctor’s appointment or legal advice, you’ll find a list of useful numbers and contact details here. Emergency Services: Call 111 Queenstown Police: 11 Camp Street | Ph: 03 441 1600 Queenstown Hospital: 20 Douglas Street, Frankton Ph: 03 441 0015 St Johns Ambulance: 10 Douglas Street, Frankton Ph: 03 441 4555 Queenstown Medical Centre: 9 Isle Street | Ph: 03 441 0500 Mountain Lakes Medical: Level 1, 34 Grant Rd, Frankton Ph: 03 442 7188 Wakatipu Victim Support: c/o Queenstown Police Station, 11 Camp Street | Ph: 03 441 1608 Queenstown Library: 10 Gorge Road | Ph: 03 441 0600 Frankton Library: 26 Hawthorne Drive, Frankton Ph 03 441 3680 Queenstown Post Office: 13 Camp Street | Ph: 03 983 1425 Airport: Airport Drive, Frankton Ph: 03 450 9031 Immigration NZ: Ph: 04 910 9915 (Wellington) immigration.govt.nz

Remarkable Vets: 53 Gorge Road, QT Phone: 03 442 1411 Arrowtown Ph: 03 442 1411 remarkablevets.co.nz QT Cat Rescue: admin@qcatrescue.org.nz Queenstown Lakes District Council: 10 Gorge Road | Phone: 03 441 0499 www.qldc.govt.nz Citizen Advice Bureau: 44 Stanley Street | Ph: 03 442 6799 www.cab.org.nz Noise Control: Call QLDC on 03 441 0499 Alcoholics Anonymous: 03 442 3181 Gamblers Anonymous: 0800 654 655 www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz Wakatipu Youth Trust: 4a/15 Oaks Drive, Frankton Ph: 03 451 1413 The Salvation Army: 71 Gorge Road | Ph: 03 442 9661 8 Pin Oak Avenue, Frankton Ph: 03 442 9661 Happiness House: 4 Park Street | Ph: 03 442 6531

Kitchen Assistant Wanted Join Our Team at Gems Kowhai! Are you passionate about creating positive experiences for children while working behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly? Gems Kowhai Early Learning is seeking a reliable and motivated Kitchen Assistant to join our team. About the Role: As our Kitchen Assistant, you'll play a key role in supporting our centre’s daily operations. Your responsibilities will include: • Morning food prep to ensure our tamariki (children) are well-fed and nourished. • Picking up and delivering food to our other childcare centres in the area. • Cleaning duties such as doing dishes and maintaining a tidy kitchen environment. Hours: 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM, Monday to Friday. What We’re Looking For: • Food Safety Knowledge: You must have either the recommended food safety qualifications to work in New Zealand, Basic Food Hygiene Certificate or a Level 2 Food Safety and Hygiene Certificate, or have worked in kitchens prior. • Filling out: Health and safety paper work/general kitchen admin paperwork • Clean Driving Record: A full, clean driver’s license is a must. • Police Check: Ability to pass a police vetting check. • Eligibility to Work: You must be a New Zealand citizen, permanent resident, or hold a valid work visa. • Team Spirit: A positive, can-do attitude and a genuine passion for supporting our community of educators, tamariki, and whanau. Why Work With Us? At Gems Kowhai, we believe in nurturing young minds and fostering a supportive environment for everyone. You’ll be part of a team that values collaboration, respect, and care. How to Apply: If you’re ready to join our wonderful team and make a difference behind the scenes, send your CV and a brief cover letter to Tash at recruit@gems.net.nz

ristmas Give the Gift of ‘Best, CAhWHOLE BOAT) Ever!’ Buy a Boat! (YES Give a gift that floats, impresses, brings adventures and possibly distracts from your lack of wrapping skills Whether for fishing, cruising or weekend getaways, this vessel is the perfect way to gift memories that will last a lifetime

for more info Call Peter: 027 707 9380

HOUSEKEEPERS Are you motivated, reliable, and ready to work in a high-end hospitality environment? We're looking for Housekeepers to join our growing team in beautiful Queenstown. What we’re looking for: • Self-motivated and able to work independently • Eﬃcient and calm under pressure • Experience preferred, but not essential • Available to work any day of the week • Full-time and part-time roles available • Full driver's license required • Must hold a valid work visa • Immediate start available Email your CV to operations@staysouth.com with your CV and cover letter.

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LAKES WEEKLY BULLETIN | 30 December 2025 - 11 January 2026

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VACANCIES

Ph: 03 409 2800 enquiries@qmg.co.nz jobfix.co.nz

Dental Assistant Remarkables Dental is seeking a passionate and experienced Dental Assistant to join our team in Frankton, Otago. This full-time role, rostered across Monday to Saturday, will support our dentist in providing high-quality dental care to our patients. Immediate start. The successful applicant will be: • Assisting the dentist during examinations and procedures • Sterilising and preparing dental instruments and equipment • Maintaining accurate and up-to-date patient records • Ensuring the dental surgery is clean, organised and well-stocked • Providing exceptional customer service to our patients • Participating in regular team meetings and training sessions What we're looking for: • Experience is preferred but not essential. • Excellent attention to detail and strong organisational skills • Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills • Proficiency in using dental software and equipment • A genuine interest in patient care and dentistry • A positive, friendly and professional attitude

CookBrothers_LakesWeekly_QuarterPage v3.pdf

18/12/2025

What we offer: At Remarkables Dental, we are committed to providing a supportive and inclusive work environment. We offer a competitive salary, opportunities for ongoing training and development, and a range of employee benefits including health insurance and dental discounts.

10:59 AM

Apply now to become part of the Remarkables Dental team! Please email your CV and cover letter to: manager@remarkablesdental.co.nz

Customer Service / Scarer

CMY

BUILD WITH US IN 2026 CURRENT OPPORTUNITIES: Project Manager, Pre-Construction Manager, Estimator, Quantity Surveyor, Site Manager, Leading Hand, Carpenter

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT:

cookbrothers.co.nz/careers

Need someone now? There are currently over 300 willing jobseekers ready to work in the QT area. Advertise your job at jobﬁx.co.nz

Fear Factory Queenstown are looking for an experienced Custumer Service and Scarer. Average of 32-37 hours a week (full-time), mainly evening work. You will be working with a fun, hard working, scary team, passionate about horror, making people laugh and scream. • Excellent customer service skills • Minimum 6 months wih full availability • Stock management skills • Cash, eftpos, till and computer skills • Excellent team player • Problem solving and communication skills to brief guests and sell merchandise

Interested? Please email your CV and a cover letter telling us a bit about yourself to queenstown@fearfactory.co.nz

Page 27

LAKES WEEKLY BULLETIN | 30 December 2025 - 11 January 2026

LAKES WEEKLY |BULLETIN Ph: 03 409 2800 | enquiries@qmg.co.nz jobfix.co.nz | 30 December 2025 - 11 January 2026 Ph: 03 409 2800 enquiries@qmg.co.nz jobfix.co.nz

VACANCIES

Weekend Duty Manager About the Role: We’re looking for a calm, capable and professional Weekend Duty Manager to support our operations team and ensure everything runs seamlessly across our busy Friday–Sundays. This pivotal role supports our drivers, manages real-time guest and agent requests, and ensures our signature LSQ service standards are maintained — every experience, every time. You’ll be the point of contact for weekend operations: managing calls, updating bookings, solving last-minute challenges, helping with vehicle swaps and providing conﬁdent, clientfocused leadership. This is a rostered weekend role, working Friday to Sunday inclusive (potentially Friday to Monday in the future), with responsibility for after-hours client and team support via rostered evening/overnight phone management. Weekend work is essential, reﬂecting the nature of our busy operations. The position will report into our Operations Manager Key Responsibilities: Duty Management: • Oversee weekend operations and ensure smooth running of all services. • Communicate clearly with drivers regarding schedules, delays, and updates. • Ensure accuracy in the reservations and dispatch system. • Respond quickly to operational changes, ensuring minimal disruption. Guest & Agent Service: • Manage weekend phone and email communications. • Support guests and agents with bookings, amendments, and service questions. • Represent LSQ with warmth, professionalism, and discretion. • Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and key stakeholders. Team Support: • Provide leadership and support to weekend driver-guides. • Record incidents, feedback, and maintenance issues for weekday follow-up. • Maintain strong communication with weekday operations for smooth handovers.

Page 27 SITUATIONS VACANT

Skills & Attributes: • Excellent multitasking and organisational skills. • Positive attitude and willing to learn. • Calm under pressure with a solutions-focused analytical mindset for solving problems in real-time. • Exceptional interpersonal and written communication. • Reliable, professional, and proactive. • Sound judgement and the ability to prioritise effectively. • Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and Dropbox. • A clean driving record. • Proven experience in duty management or logistics, within transport or tourism (preferred) • Experience with high net-worth clientele (preferred). Qualifications: • Relevant qualifications in management, logistics, or operations (preferred but not essential). • P endorsement (preferred but not essential) What we offer: • A full time role with a minimum of 30 hours per week. • A fun and supportive team environment. • A dynamic, challenging, and interesting workplace where no two days are the same. • The chance to work in beautiful Queenstown, one of New Zealand’s most iconic locations. • Be part of New Zealand’s premier luxury transport provider, delivering exceptional experiences to discerning travellers. • Competitive salary.

Smiths Craft Beer House is hiring Kitchen Manager/Supervisor and Line Cooks Requirements: • Valid NZ work visa (no sponsorships variations are possible) • Already living in Queenstown • Strong knowledge of the Food Control Plan • English essential; Spanish helpful (South American team) If you’re keen to join one of NZ’s top craft beer venues, email: Chris@smithscraftbeer.co.nz

REQUIRED NOW!!!!!! Skilled and Unskilled Labourers Traﬃc Controllers Looking for casual, temporary or long term work?? Queenstown Personnel and Labour Hire are looking for labourers for a variety of jobs around Queenstown with an immediate start. Contact Sharleen - 027 778 7377 or email sharleen@qtplabour.co.nz

About us: Limousine Services Queenstown is New Zealand’s leading luxury transport provider, renowned for delivering bespoke tours and private transfers that create unforgettable experiences for discerning travellers. Operating a ﬂeet of premium vehicles and supported by a large team of dedicated driver-guides, we specialise in luxury transport services across the South Island. Our commitment to excellence, safety, and sustainability has positioned us as an industry leader. Visa sponsorship is not available for this role.

Apply now on SEEK or by sending your CV and cover letter to LUKE@LSQ.CO.NZ

Chef - Immediate start ROOM ATTENDANTS REQUIRED

FIND THE PERFECT CANDIDATE

Attention to detail for 5 star Hotel

FOR YOUR JOB VACANCY

Experience beneﬁcial but not mandatory, full training provided

Restaurant or Bar Manager Immediate start

Provide exceptional customer service and high cleaning standards

Full time & permanent. Experience and LCQ beneﬁcial.

Good hourly rate

Email Dave at queenstown@lonestarhq.co.nz or call 027 422 3565.

Please apply to kim_haynes@evt.com

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Come see your Local Sleep Specialists Phone 03 441 4554 | www.bedsrus.co.nz Remarkables Park Town Centre

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*Offervalidto13.01.26orwhilestockslast.Discountoffersapplytoselectedbedsandbeddingonly,pricesasmarked.OffersexcludeEverydayDreamprices,runouts,clearancestock(unlessotherwisestated)andnottobeusedinconjunctionwithanyotheroffer. Seein-storefordetails.30-DayComfortGuaranteeavailableforin-storepurchasesonly.Wereservetherighttocorrecterrorsandmisprintsandtochangeproductspecifications.Allproductsareadvertisedingoodfaithandwillbeavailable,exceptincircumstances beyondourcontrol.Productrangesvarybetweenstoresandsomeproductsareavailableinselectedstoresonly.

4 Hawthorne Drive,

Remarkables Park PH:03 442 2460