SUMMER 2010

QUEENSTOWN • ARROWTOWN • WANAKA • CROMWELL

qtmagazine

SUMMER 2010The Motatapu, Michael Hill NZ Golf Open, Warbirds over Wanaka, Plus Fashion, Food,Wine, Shopping, Art and Activities.

CONTENTS

News Brief6 & 7. News from around the region

Outdoors8. AJ Hackett’s Nevis Adventures9. The Motatapu Experience

Local Talk10. Profi ling local people

Events11. The Michael Hill NZ Open returns to The Hills16. What’s on for Summer 201021. Warbirds over Wanaka – spectcular international

airshow

Shopping13. Fashion trends for summer

Outdoors9. Millbrook Resort unveils a new golf course 14. Real Journeys outdoor excursions15. Fishing with The Baron in Queenstown

Arrowtown18. Arrowtown - a boutique destination19. Historic Arrowtown cottages rescued

Wanaka22. Puzzling World – plans for expansion21. New Wanaka Tourism Chief provides positive

outlook

Cromwell24. Hagley Kitchen’s merger creates new image23. Old Cromwell Town – preserving Cromwell’s

heritage

Café Directory26. Café reviews with Jo Blick

Taste28. Wine expert Alan Brady – quality versus quantity27. Botswana Butchery – the success is in the eating28. Kappa – outstanding Japanese fare29. Finz Restaurant has fresh vision

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QT Magazine - Published by QT Publishing PO Box 2240, Queenstown Tel: 00 64 3 442 6244M: 021 246 3342 E: margo@bgmedia.co.nz www.qt.co.nz

Cover Photo: Chris Dagg of Queenstown competing in the Motatapu marathon. Photo Iconic Adventures

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NEWS 6

with Jenny McLeodKEY ENTRANCE TO QUEENSTOWN CHANGES HANDSThe first stage of the controversial Five Mile property at the entrance to Queenstown has a new owner fol-lowing a receivership sale but plans for the site have yet to be announced by Queenstown Gateway Ltd.

The 7.7ha site is part of a larger 31ha development site that was put up for international tender early in 2009 after Five Mile Holdings Ltd, owned by property devel-oper Dave Henderson, was placed in receivership and acquired by Hanover Finance.

Queenstown Gateway’s site is alongside State High-way 6 next to an area which had been excavated for an underground car park, locally known as “Hendo’s Hole.”

The new owners are considering options for the de-velopment of the site which is recognised as a signifi-cant entry to the resort.

QUEENSTOWN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RECOGNISES FLYING LEGENDLegendary New Zealand aviator Sir Tim Wallis of Wa-naka has been awarded the Queenstown Chamber of Commerce’s inaugural Lifetime Achievement award for his contribution to the region as an entrepreneur.

Chamber chairman Alastair Porter says the award was well deserved.

“Sir Tim is one of New Zealand’s most extraordinarily successful entrepreneurs. His career has included a wide range of initiatives including aviation, deer re-covery, farming and tourism.”

The award was made during the 2009 Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards and NZSki which operates Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and Mt Hutt ski areas won the Westpac Supreme Business

of the Year award after taking out the title for the large business category.

The small business section was won by D’Or Hairstyl-ists of Arrowtown and the medium business title went to Queenstown Re-sort College.

NZSKI CEO James Cod-dington says the Supreme Award was a tribute to his staff.

COMMUNITY GUIDES PATROL RESORT STREETSThe Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) is hop-ing to tackle crime on the streets with the return of community guides this summer.The guides were used on a trial basis in 2008, and be-cause of the positive impact they made, the council agreed to provide further funding to help tackle any problems in the downtown centre at night.

QLDC spokesman Paul Wilson says the guides will work Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights and will be highly visible in their uniforms with the council logo.

He says they will be on hand to assist people and to provide a calming influence in the CBD as well as helping monitor the liquor ban in the area.

“We hope to see a drop off in petty crime and vandal-ism and enhance the sense that Queenstown is a safe place to be at night.”

MATCH MADE IN QUEENSTOWNAmerican reality television stars Jason Mesnick of The Bachelor fame and his partner Molly Malaney have put Queenstown further on the map by announcing their engagement while visiting the resort. The couple came to the area in 2008 to film an episode of The Batchelor which attracted 14 million viewers in the US. They recently returned to New Zealand on a spe-cial Air New Zealand matchmaking flight and spent four days in Queenstown where Jason popped the question. Destination Queenstown General Manager Marketing Graham Budd says Queenstown had great exposure with the announcement of the engagement back in the States.

“It was plastered across news stands and we just hope they choose to tie the knot here as well. When The Batchelor’s Queenstown episode first aired, visits to Destination Queenstown’s website shot up more than 260 percent. The programme has probably provided the town with the greatest exposure over there since The Lord of the Rings was released.”

TERTIARY COLLEGE EXPANDS INFRASTRUCTUREQueenstown Resort College (QRC) is launching its first hall of residence for students with the purchase of the former tourist venture Queenstown Lodge.

The Fernhill based lodge will be converted into a hos-tel for the start of the 2010 year.

QRC CEO Charlie Phillips says previously students have been accommodated in leased apartments and the purchase of the lodge is part of the College’s long term vision to establish a student campus in Queen-stown.“We are committed to Queenstown as an education destination and a serious place for study. Having our own accommodation will be a real drawcard in attract-ing national and international students and means we will be comparable to any other tertiary education in-stitution in New Zealand.”

The QRC Lodge will also double as a training base for the college’s hospitality students.

“We have a strong emphasis on practical learning so we’re turning the kitchen into a training kitchen and will simulate real life hotel management scenarios.”

Sir Tim Wallis

Jason Mesnick and Molly Malaney

7 NEWS

KIWI MICHELIN STAR CHEF AT AMISFIELD

Highly regarded Kiwi chef Josh Emett, whose name is synonymous with international Gordon Ramsay restaurants is making an exclusive appearance at Amisfield Bistro on February 9, and there’s been a strong early response for tickets to the five course degustation lunch.Amisfield Wine Company General Manager Fleur Caulton says attracting someone of Josh’s calibre is a coup for the winery and his food, matched with Amisfield’s award winning wines, will put the spotlight on regional produce and flavours.Josh has worked for ten years alongside Gordon

Ramsay and is currently Executive Chef de Cuisine at Gordon Ramsay at The London New York and West Hollywood. As New Zealand’s only Michelin Star chef he has achieved four stars which are the ultimate accolade in the culinary world.Josh’s appearance at Amisfield will precede his relocation to Melbourne where he will be responsible for

opening Gordon Ramsay’s first two restaurants in Australia.

BRUCE GRANT YOUTH TRUST SUPPORTS YOUNG PEOPLEThe Bruce Grant Youth Trust which commemorates one of Queenstown’s best known adventurers has recently distributed $20,000 to young people in the community, the most it has given in its 14 year history.Bruce Grant lost his life on K2 Mountain in 1995 and the Trust was set up in the same year to preserve his legacy and support young people in their endeavours.Trust Chairman Andrew Brinsley says the latest round of funding was distributed to 28 applicants, the largest number so far, and the issue would now be to source

enough funds to meet the ongoing demand.“It’s our goal to support youth in whatever field their talents lie. There are not many charities that encourage individuals to strive for their goals. We believe this work is important.”

AJ HACKETT BUNGY STRIKES GOLDQueenstown’s AJ Hackett Bungy has won a “golden backpack” after being voted best tour/activity in New Zealand in the Golden Backpack Awards.The awards are run by publisher TNT magazine, and each year more than 30 companies in Australia and New Zealand are recognised for their outstanding customer service, through consumer voting.Bungy New Zealand CEO Michelle Trapski says it is the first time the company has won the award and it is a credit to her team.“We are delighted to have received such a strong endorsement from the backpacker market. The fact that it’s voted on by our customers makes it all the more important to us because it’s demonstrating our high levels of customer service and experience.”

2010 CAVALCADE TAKES TO WANAKA STREETSThe annual Goldfields Cavalcade, an event for horse riders, wagoners and walkers, who trek through the Central Otago backcountry to retrace the steps of the early goldminers, will finish in the streets of Wanaka

on February 27.The event was first organised in 1991 by the Otago Goldfields Heritage Trust and the 2010 cavalcade finale will transform the Wanaka streets into an 1860s mining town with the Cavalcade Parade at High Noon.Wanaka event organiser Katy Macpherson says they have had excellent support from the Otago Community, Central Lakes and Southern Trusts together with the Lion Foundation who have all donated funds to make the event possible.Wanaka Primary School student Michaela Rogan (10) won the competition to design the logo and name the Wanaka finale with her winning entry –Winding Road to Wanaka.

DUST TO GOLD MAKES IMPACTCentral Otago’s Bendigo Station owner John Perriam has achieved huge success so far with his book Dust to Gold, which traces the history of the station and Shrek the famous merino, who has raised thousands of dollars for the Cure Kids charity.Royalties from the book are being donated to Cure Kids and John says Shrek is a great New Zealand story.“He was wool blind and wouldn’t have survived another six months if we hadn’t found him. For the past six years Shrek has visited countless hospitals and old folks homes and raised thousands of dollars for charity. He has brought so much joy to people and given them a sense there is always hope.”Cure Kids South Island Manager Josie Spillane says Shrek has paid a pivotal role in helping Cure Kids raise money for vital medical research into children’s life threatening illnesses. “We have been so fortunate to be part of the Shrek story and he has a very special place amongst our Cure Kids ambassadors.”

Josh Emett

John Perriam and Shrek

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OUTDOOR 8

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND BUNGY BOOKINGS GO TO THE BUNGY CENTRE, CNR SHOTOVER AND CAMP ST OR PHONE 0800 286 495 WWW.BUNGY.CO.NZ WWW.NEVISARC.CO.NZ

an inspirational destination

At some point in our lives we get to experience a truly inspirational place that not only takes our breath away but remains etched in our memory as an unforgettable experience.

AJ Hackett Bungys wild and isolated Nevis site is one such destination.

While its reputation as the site of the 134m high “mother of all Bungy jumps” and the gigantic Arc swing is legend-ary, the Nevis is also one of the most remote and beauti-ful sites in the world to visit.

Situated high up in the Nevis mountain range, there is only one way to get there and that’s with AJ Hackett Bungy. No other vehicles are allowed on site and the 35 minute rugged 4WD trip with the AJ Hackett Bungy crew is just the beginning of the adventure.

Surrounded by the raw and natural beauty of the South-ern Alps, both the Nevis Bungy Pod and Nevis Arc Swing are perched dramatically on the edge of the Nevis Valley, high above the river and valley floor below.

Both are feats of high wire engineering brilliance. If you choose to bungy then prepare to be harnessed into a cable car and transported along 380m long, high-tension cables out to the Bungy Pod, where the glass floor pan-els allow you to catch all the real life action in glorious technicolour.

Meanwhile the world’s highest swing, the Nevis Arc launch pad is positioned at the end of a towering fixed structure suspension bridge, at giddying heights designed to blow your mind.

Whether you’re jumping, swinging or just along for the ride, a visit to the Nevis is irresistible, terrifying and a life changing experience. James Bond would love it.

9 OUTDOOR

Millbrook five star resort started out as a wheat farm in the 1860s and the early farmers were committed to the land planting many of the beautiful established trees on the property. Today’s owners are just as dedicated to enhancing Millbrook and new developments are designed to blend with the landscape. Jane Brooke discovered that Millbrook has much to offer this summer.While Millbrook’s 18-hole championship course is the resort’s flagship, the highly anticipated Coronet Nine course, to be officially opened by Prime Minister John Key on January 31, will provide an exciting new golfing experience. Designed by Turner McPherson, headed by former touring professional Greg Turner, the Coronet Nine follows a layout that is new to Millbrook.

Millbrook’s Director of Sales and Marketing Kim Carpenter says the Coronet Nine, which has

been developed at the $500m Millbrook West residential and golf lifestyle development, will offer fresh challenges.

“Winding over rolling hills, through streams and wetlands with some of the region’s most breathtaking backdrops, it’s a whole new reason to play Millbrook.”

He says with the Coronet Nine opening, and the Remarkables Nine already in play, Millbrook is on track to become a 27-hole golf course by late 2010. Four holes on the Arrow Nine will be redesigned, reconfigured and ready to play by October 2010.

“The designers predict the new Arrow number 9 green will be the most photographed hole at Millbrook, in its stunning location overlooked by diners at The Millhouse restaurant.”

Millbrook’s newly opened driving range reflects the resort’s early heritage at the same time incorporating contemporary features.

“The driving range is housed in a restored high-country shearing shed,” says Kim, “where old literally meets new. The latest technology, including SAM putt analysis and launch monitors, sits alongside original shearing stalls and tallies and there is even a distinctive aroma that is a reminder of the shed’s early beginnings.”

SENSATIONAL TALENT ON MORE FM WINERY TOURThe More FM Winery Tour stops at Millbrook on February 15 featuring Kiwi talent Dave Dobbyn, Tim Finn and Bic Runga. It is almost ten years since the legendary trio were on stage together and their performance in Millbrook’s superb outdoor concert setting is expected to be a huge drawcard.Local wineries and eateries will participate, highlighting wine and food specialties from the region and creating a picnic atmosphere.

CORONET SQUARE UNVEILS SPECTACULAR SHOW HOMEMillbrook’s newest neighbourhood Coronet Square has recently unveiled its first show home showcasing state-of-the-art architecture, interior design and technology.

The spacious 307sqm three-bedroom, three-bathroom home, designed by leading Queenstown architect Haden Emslie, has elevated and expansive views towards Coronet Peak and the Crown Range. Local multi-award-winning design companies have combined to create a stunning interior featuring highly contemporary fittings and fixtures. Millbrook Property and Development Manager Ben O’Malley says the show home is open daily to visitors and he anticipates widespread interest over the summer.

“Coronet Square is a unique cluster of 13 homes at Millbrook West and the new development is progressing well. The first houses have been completed and several of the high end stand alone homes are either underway or about to start construction.”

FIVE STAR MILLBROOK RESORT – A SUMMER PLAYGROUND

LOCALTALK 10

MERINO FASHION FOCUSCentral Otago fashion designer, Christina Perriam, is making an impact after relaunching her fashion label, of the same name, which went on hold while she travelled overseas. After 18 months based in London, working as a design and garment technician, Christina decided it was time to return to home to do what she loves best – designing beautiful fashion using her favourite merino fibre. “I love being back in my home territory and love all that this region has to offer. It’s so easy to fully concentrate on my business and brand and give it the time it needs to get established and off the ground.” Christina has set up her workroom on her family’s historic Bendigo Station property near Tarras, best known as the home of Shrek the famous hermit merino. Savvy in business as well as design, she has created a new business model for her label and is focusing on online selling through her website.“The brands I worked for in London had online stores that were turning over as much, if not more, as their retail stores. I knew this was how I had to operate. Having an online store gives you complete control over your product and image. Direct selling also enables a business to cut the middle man out and increase profit margins.” Christina’s stunning designs show that merino can be glamorous and reflect her aspiration to produce merino garments that are both “fashion forward” and “on trend.” CH

ACTING GPA long-standing love affair with theatre has recently seen popular Wanaka GP Lucy O’Hagan develop a new passion. Five years ago she, along with others, formed the Hawea-based Flat Out Productions. After four successful plays, including “Witches Over Wanaka” which was part of the high profile 2009 Wanaka Festival Of Colour, Lucy teamed up with three other Wanaka locals to set up The Silk Tent Theatre Company. Together they have co-written and directed “Girl with No Words”, a multi-media piece of theatre, telling the story of a young woman’s experience of self-injury or “cutting.”“We hoped to encourage audiences to better understand, and feel compassion for those suffering from mental illness and were interested in the power of story to transform the human condition,” she says. “Girl with No Words” has been performed in Auckland, Wellington, Wanaka, Clyde and Queenstown with wide success. “It’s provoked a lot of positive audience interest and opened up a lot of discussion about life. It’s got people thinking.”Lucy enjoys the collaborative nature of theatre and in the future would like to continue using creative writing and performance to explore further important issues in medicine. “Acting and being a GP actually have a lot in common. Both doctors and actors are trained to be acute observers of human behaviour. Doctors also need to be able to empathise with their patients’ suffering and the ability to stand in someone else’s shoes is also a key part of acting.” VM

FANCY FLOWERSTwo years ago Jo Allen had an idea to organise flowers for friends and family as a way of developing a home based business while her two boys Harry (5) and Louis (4) are young. But like all good ideas this one grew and The Vase is now providing fresh flowers and innovative arrangements for key restaurants, hotels and shops in Queenstown and Arrowtown as well as private homes. “Growing up in Australia we had a large garden and I always loved flowers,” says Jo. “I source flowers from the markets each week and spread the word by email about what’s on offer. The business has evolved so that I now count places like Amisfield, Jack’s Point, Millbrook Spa, Lone Star and Cruickshank Furniture as regular clients. I am often asked to create decorations for dinner parties and weddings and prepare arrangements for overseas clients who own homes in Queenstown. A lot of people are too busy and it suits them to be able to call on someone else to do the job.” While not a trained florist Jo has an eye for colour and a fresh, classic style which is widely appealing. She likes to let her imagination go and it is not unusual to see walnuts, chestnuts and other local produce used in her distinctive arrangements. Jo has carved a niche for herself in Queenstown but wants to retain The Vase as a small, personal business in the foreseeable future. “It has become much bigger than I originally envisaged and I am more than happy for it to remain as a boutique venture at this stage.” JM

Christina Perriam and Mimi

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11 EVENTS

The Michael Hill New Zealand Open will be played at The Hills private golf course near Arrowtown from January 28-31 2010, the first time it has been held in the region at this time of the year. Jenny McLeod looks at the programme.The previous two New Zealand Opens have been staged at The Hills, owned by entrepreneur Michael Hill, in November 2007 and March 2009.

The Open is a co-sanctioned event between the Australasian and Nationwide Tours, with a prize purse of $US600,000 and New Zealand Golf is excited about the move back to a traditional January date claiming the timing of the tournament, at the end of the summer holidays, will make it an important attraction.

“Over many years we have found that January has always proved

the most popular with golf fans and the sporting public,” says New Zealand Golf CEO, Bill MacGowan. “It is still in the school holiday period which will allow families to see some of the best golfers in the world in action, and especially a chance for young players, who might aspire to be the next Danny Lee or David Smail, to come along and watch.”

New Zealand Open promoter Bob Tuohy of Tuohy Associates also sees the earlier date as a bonus.

“It’s a great chance for fans to watch this country’s premier golf championship and a January date means we will certainly attract more spectators and enhance our volunteer base. New Zealand and Australia’s best players will for the first time in many years have the opportunity to compete before joining other Tours offshore.”

The New Zealand Open is a family event and this year children under the age of 15, accompanying a paying adult will get free entry.

Tuohy and Associates Sales and Marketing Manager Mike Godinet says the Kids Go Free policy should be a big attraction. “As the 2010 Michael Hill New Zealand Open falls during the school holidays, what better way to spend the day with the family than out on the golf course watching some of the world’s finest golfers.”

MICHAEL HILL NEW ZEALAND OPEN

WHAT’S ON AT THE OPENThe Michael Hill New Zealand Golf Open has a number of non-golfing community events running in tandem with the tournament which will promote the region to people visiting the area.Julie Hughes of Arrow Events says the Arrowtown Ladies Luncheon planned for Friday January 29 will put Arrowtown’s fashion under the spotlight.“We know there are a lot of women who come to the Open with their partners and families but are keen to get involved in other activities. The luncheon will include a fashion show hosted by Arrowtown retailers and professional entertainment. It will be a quality event and we look forward to showing off our distinctive fashion and jewellery.”A market day takes place on Arrowtown’s Village Green on Saturday January 30 and a diverse number of stalls will showcase the work of local artists and crafts people.“Again we want to show the many visitors who are in town for the golf the extensive range of talent we have in this community. The market day is always a popular event with a great local following and it is the ideal opportunity to hold it during the New Zealand Open.”Other activities, including a Queenstown Chamber of Commerce lunch featuring guest speakers representing the golfing fraternity, are planned during New Zealand Open week.

Sir Bob Charles

Photographs: Otago Daily Times

OUTDOORS 12

ECO FRIENDLY FLYING FOX TAKES TO THE TREESAn eco friendly flying fox adventure launched by Ziptrek Ecotours, on Queenstown’s Bob’s Peak, is based on a similar concept in Whistler in Canada. Margo Berryman reports.The fully guided flying fox adventure journeys through the forest above the Skyline gondola, via a series of observation platforms and cables anchored between treetop platforms. Ziptrek Ecotours was founded in Whistler and the venture has become an award winning Canadian eco-tourism business recognised for combining environmental awareness with an adrenaline rush. Queenstown director Trent Yeo says the flying fox adventure means people can explore Queenstown’s scenery from a number of different vantage points at the same time experiencing the thrill of soaring down a cable line. Four flying foxes traverse the architec-turally designed tree top platforms and aerial staircases. Between each of the platforms, guides provide an interpretative and ecological pre-sentation and the two-hour trip is immersed in the peaceful surrounds of the forest. Trent says the emphasis is on an eco-adventure with low environmental impact.“We’ve been building up to this for some years now and truly believe Ziptrek Ecotours will be a fantastic addition to Queenstown’s adventure portfolio. The Skyline location is perfect for Ziptrek because the views from Bob’s Peak are recognisable around the world and the tall Douglas fir trees lend themselves to our tree based architecture. Ziptrek’s flying foxes offer all sorts of people the chance to enjoy the iconic views of Queenstown through a unique frame.”The tour is suitable for families (minimum age seven) corporate groups, individuals and anyone who wants a different experience in the forest.“Ziptrek is about harmonious integration with the environment and having fun in the outdoors,” says Trent. “Our goals are to build environmental awareness in a truly exhilarating and enjoyable way and we are looking forward to becoming part of Queenstown’s adventure tourism offering.”

PAULA RYAN @ TE HUIA Arrowtown’s newest designer store, Te Huia, stocks 100% New Zealand made high quality contemporary clothing, knitwear, leather, jewellery, home furnishings, art, body products, gifts and accessories. Te Huia features the largest collection of Paula Ryan in the Wakatipu. Paula is New Zealand’s leading lady of fashion and has designed her 2010 summer collection to encompass “style made easy.” There is a relaxed and uncomplicated degree of simplicity to the range of wrap dresses, shirts, leggings, long styled tank tops and cardigans. The magic is in the fabric. The entire collection is designed for travelling or wearing at home and has easy care layering for a long hot summer. Add a splash of colour to your classics. Visit Arrowtown’s newest store, Te Huia in Buckingham Street and enjoy the beautiful and relaxing ambience.

13 FASHION

summerparty Looking for that special party frock? Wallace and Gibbs in Arrowtown may have just the one that will make the party season truly sensational. Check out the Episode range of special occasion dresses that will make you feel like a million dollars with some sexy and sophisticated designs that could also make New Year’s Eve go off with a bang! Check out the simply perfect dresses, streamlined tanks, cute smocks and gorgeous two-piece layered outfits which make up the summer collections from Chocolat, Obi and Catalyst. Floral, prints and rainbow colours from pretty pastels to bold monotones make this summer a bright and breezy fashion statement. And there are extra special outfits and larger sizes to suit weddings, birthdays and anniversary celebrations.

WALLACE AND GIBBS love Marilyn Seyb for her cute cardigans, summer dresses and must have” t-shirts.

DIESEL, GSUS & SCOTCH AND

SODAThe hottest brands from New Zealand and European

designers are in force this summer at Ikon. Directional

fashion from fav labels Workshop, Diesel and Firetrap

define summer style with a wide range of denim jeans,

sneakers, belts and handbags to finish your look. Ikon

have an extensive display of Diesel shoes for both

men and women and the ‘must have’ Diesel bags that

come direct from Italy including totes, satchels and

handbags.

SUNGLASSES BY MARC JACOBSFashion design store ikon is now stocking the latest collection oF Marc Jacobs’ sunglasses. the aMerican clothing designer who is currently artistic director For louis Vuitton designs For the conteMporary Man and woMan. his range oF sunglasses haVe becoMe FaVourite accessories aMongst MoVie stars such as hillary duFF, recently

photographed wearing her ghetto Fabulous Marc Jacobs’ sunnies in hollywood.

SMART CASUAL HOLIDAY GEARNew Zealand labels Vamp and VSSP are high on the priority list of many an overseas visitors and Wallace and Gibbs stocks a wide selection of these beautifully designed smart casual garments. Well-cut denim to soft cotton tees, clean, structured jackets and soft feminine dresses and shifts make up the range by their new designer Tenille Watt.

OUTDOORS 14

TSS Earnslaw & Walter PeakLaunched in 1912, Queenstown’s vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw is the largest and grandest vessel ever to ply Lake Wakatipu.Cruising on the “Lady of the Lake” is like stepping back in time. Below deck, the steam engines hiss and thud as the stokers shovel coal into the glowing fireboxes. In the wheelhouse, the skipper still uses the traditional telegraph bells to communicate orders to the engine room below.The TSS Earnslaw departs from Steamer Wharf every two hours from 10am to 6pm for scenic lake cruises across to Walter Peak High Country Farm. This farm, located on the lake’s southwestern shores, offers an entertaining taste of New Zealand’s high country farming lifestyle.Passengers can disembark and join a farmyard tour which includes a shearing demonstration, morning or afternoon tea and the opportunity to watch the sheep dogs at work. Other excursions at the farm include a delicious lakeside barbecue, Heritage Excursions and guided horse treks.In the evening, enjoy a carvery buffet at the charming Colonel’s Homestead restaurant, featuring succulent roast meats, seafood, salads and irresistible desserts, followed by an entertaining farm demonstration. At the end of the evening, the moonlit cruise back to Queenstown is a magical experience.

For more information please contact Real Journeys Real Journeys Visitor Centre, Steamer Wharf, Queenstown

Freephone 0800 65 65 03 www.realjourneys.co.nz

Southern New Zealand is a land of incredible diversity.

In a day trip from Queenstown experience stunning fiords,

view dense rainforest or travel by vintage steamship to a high

country farm.

Doubtful SoundDoubtful Sound is a massive wilderness area of rugged peaks, rainforest and twisting, hidden fiords - all deep in the heart of Fiordland National Park.This region is home to bottlenose dolphins and fur seals - both of which are often seen. In season, you may also catch a glimpse of the rare Fiordland crested penguin.Local company Real Journeys operates daily excursions into Doubtful Sound, led by specialist nature guides with a passion for the area’s flora and fauna.The daytime excursion (Wilderness Cruise) begins with a cruise across the crystal waters of Lake Manapouri. You’ll then travel by coach on the alpine road over Wilmot Pass, pausing to view some of Fiordland’s densest rainforest.Upon reaching Doubtful Sound, you’ll board a modern catamaran for a three-hour cruise exploring the waterways of this serene and isolated fiord.Real Journeys also operates Overnight Cruises which provide the opportunity to explore even further. Join the nature guide and go kayaking or exploring by small boat. Then enjoy a hearty three-course meal before falling asleep to the sound of lapping waves. Both daytime and overnight cruises depart daily, with coach connections from Queenstown and Te Anau.

Milford SoundMilford Sound is a world-renowned natural wonder. Nowhere else in Fiordland do the mountains stand so tall, straight out of the sea.Day visitors can explore the full length of the fiord on a relaxing Real Journeys Nature Cruise, accompanied by a specialist nature guide. The cruise includes plenty of time to pause to view fur seals, or to take in the grandeur of the fiord’s huge waterfalls.If you have the time, treat yourself to an Overnight Cruise, and spend the afternoon exploring by kayak or small boat before mooring in a secluded cove for the evening. Accommodation on board ranges from private ensuite cabins to bunk-style compartments.

Getting there:Flying between Queenstown and Milford is the ultimate way to experience southern New Zealand’s dramatic alpine scenery. Visitors can choose

to fly both ways, or fly back to Queenstown after taking a luxury Real Journeys coach to Milford. Coach connections are also available from Te Anau.

Doubtful Sound

The tranquil waters of Queenstown’s Lake Wakatipu are a far cry from the extreme conditions of the Indian Ocean or the Mozambique Channel, but professional guide and world sailor Craig Hind has experienced them all. He spoke to James Beech.

‘’We were stuck in a cyclone with waves up to 15m when we were off the Mozambique coast in 2007,’’ Craig recalls. ‘’We were running a fishing charter on a 50ft Royal Cape catamaran with eight clients and three crew and 500 nautical miles [910km] to cover when we heard on the SSB [single-sideband] radio there was severe weather on its way. After much discussion it was decided to ride it out and sail back on the tail end of the cyclone.”

The group experienced incredible winds of up to 60knots [110kmh] across the deck.

‘’We also had one incident where my fiancé Bridget was at the helm and we had a massive wave break over the forward quarter beam, completely engulfing the boat. She turned down the wave and allowed the boat to surf, she was an absolute star.’’

Fortunately the unpredictable extremes of the wind

on Lake Wakatipu are the only challenging conditions Craig has to factor in, when operating his popular new Queenstown venture, X-Stream Fishing Charters.

The 32-year-old South African has shared his expertise and passion for fishing and sailing with dozens of clients on more than 40 charters since launching the Lake Wakatipu business in October 2009.

Operating the former American competitive fishing boat “Baron” from O’Regan’s Wharf, near the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Craig takes fishing fans of all ages and abilities to top-secret spots for affordable and unforgettable experiences.

‘’We undertake lake fishing and private lake charters along with our famous sundowner cruises. We lake fish in Wakatipu all year round for brown trout, rainbow trout and quinnat salmon,” he says.

‘’Lake charters take between two to four hours and involve a thrilling 15 minute ride at speeds of up to 30 knots [55kmh], then a slow cruise taking in the spectacular scenery.”

‘’Our other point of difference is our two hour trip out into the middle of the lake, where we float out with the engines off, start the barbecue and watch the sun set over The Remarkables for our unique sundowner cruises. It’s spectacular, and we speak from experience.’’

Craig has some great stories of his exploits all over the world to share with clients and loves to talk about his best catch – landing a 550lb black marlin on 32lb stand-up tackle, while fishing off a small sports boat off the coast of Kwazulu Natal on his birthday in 2007.

‘’But a 600lb bull shark was by far my hardest battle, taken off a beach in Umdloti in Kwazulu Natal, using a 40kg live shark as bait. Seven hours later I won the battle and landed the shark. Then I swam out to revive and release her. She put up a good fight and she deserved to go back.”

But he did wonder whether they had met before. ‘’She was possibly the shark that attacked me two years earlier at the same place while I was spear fishing!’’

FISHERMAN EXTRAORDINAIRE

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15 OUTDOORS

DECEMBER 2009Every SaturdayCREATIVE QUEENSTOWN ART & CRAFT MARKETSEarnslaw Park QueenstownOpen 10am – 4pm

27th December LAKE HAYES TRIATHLONTriathlon. Duathlon & team options. Venue: Lake HayesPhone: 03 441 1025www.salomonsoutherntriseries.co.nz

30th December KATCHAFIRE Premier NZ Reggae act Katchafire play one big night in Queenstown Venue: MEMORIAL HALL QUEENSTOWNPhone: 03 4418911

31st December – 31st January 2010Summerdaze Festival A month long fun-filled programme of events to entertain locals and visitors.Venue: VariousPhone: 03 4432700www.summerdaze.co.nz

JANUARY 20108th January 2010More FM Wild About Water Pool Party Queenstown Splash out at the ultimate summer pool party in Queenstown Venue: Alpine Aqualand, Queenstown Events CentrePhone: 03 450 9005 www.lakesleisure.co.nz

9th – 10th January Pub Charity New Zealand Rugby Sevens 16 provincial teams compete in high profile national tournamentVenue: Queenstown Recreation Ground, QueenstownPhone: 021 347 000

10th – 16th January Challenge Wanaka The world’s most scenic iron distance triathlon.Venue: Pembroke ParkPhone: 03 443 2700www.challenge-wanaka.com

10th JanuaryPuzzling World Junior Challenge Wanaka Fun event for ages six to 15Venue: Pembroke ParkPhone: 03 443 2700www.challenge-wanaka.com

28th – 31st JanuaryMichael Hill NZ Open New Zealand’s premier golf tournament Venue: The Hills in Arrowtownwww.nzopen.org.nz

FEBRUARY 201013th FebruaryBrake Burner- Race from the Sky A mountain bike race with cross country and free ride trails. Suitable for all mountain bikers. Venue: Snowpark, Cardrona ValleyPhone: 027 2262822www.fat-tyre.co.nz

21st FebruaryParadise Triathlon All off-road! Duathlon & team options. Venue: Paradise, GlenorchyPhone: 03 441 1025www.salomonsoutherntriseries.co.nz

MARCH 20106th MarchOutside Sports Alpine Classic Cycle Race Queenstown - Wanaka Return 135km Venue: Village Green QueenstownContact: 03 441 0074

13th MarchMotatapu 2010 Mountain Bike and run through the iconic Motatapu Valley

Venue: Glendhu Bay, Lake Wanaka to Butlers Green, Arrowtown

Phone: 03 441 1025 www.motatapu.com

20th MarchGibbston Harvest Festival A local food and wine event run by the local wineries with local restaurants. Venue: Gibbston Valley Station, GibbstonPhone: 03 4412493www.gibbstonharvestfestival.com

EVENTS 16

EVENTS

17 OUTDOORS

The Motatapu high country mountain bike and off road marathon between Wanaka and Arrowtown is a household name and now attracts 2,000 bikers and 1,000 runners every year. Jenny McLeod talked to the people behind the event about the Motatapu’s outstanding success since the inaugural race in 2005.

Tom Pryde, Tracey Neil and Geoff Matthews are a trio with a lot of energy and passion. Together they spearhead Iconic Adventures which runs the Motatapu -Tom and Geoff are directors while Tracey is the company’s managing director and race director.

Motatapu and Mt Soho Stations were purchased by American country singer Shania Twain several years ago and her agent approached Tom, a Queenstown lawyer and former triathlete, about running an annual event from Glendhu Bay in Wanaka to Arrowtown.

“I had recently helped organise the World Triathlon Championships in Queenstown in my role as president of Triathlon New Zealand and I guess I was the logical choice,” he says. “I knew an event through this area would be huge because it is such a stunning valley and there is no public access. I also knew that Geoff and Tracey, who had recently moved to Queenstown, would be the ideal partners for the venture.”

Geoff has been an internationally competitive Ironman

triathlete and was ranked in the top 15 in the world at the height of his career. Running his own marketing consultancy BrandCom Ltd he was well equipped to help organise and profi le the Motatapu.

“I had a vision for the Motatapu, not only to make it big but also to have a fantastic fi nish line atmosphere like you get at a big Ironman event, so that everyone competing would feel the adrenalin surge of completing an event before a big crowd. We have certainly achieved that.”

Tracey’s background as a business analyst and IT project manager put her in the forefront of the day-to-day planning for the Motatapu, and in the fi rst year in 2005, with high profi le title sponsor Icebreaker on board 1119 bikers competed in the 50km ride and 186 runners entered the 42km marathon.

“We expected around 500 bikers and realised the event was only going to grow as word spread.”

“We have capped it at 2,000 bikers and 1000 runners to ensure everyone has a good experience. There’s also the safety aspect as well.”The event broke new ground in many ways.

“We created something which had not been seen on a local or even a national level before,” says Geoff.” One of the real innovations though was the on-line booking instead of hard copy entry forms. Other events soon followed this idea but I think one of our best initiatives has been the Iconic Adventures magazine which we distribute to competitors, rather

than a race programme. It is a quality publication which highlights many aspects of the event and we distribute it in December so that people have it to refer to all summer leading up to the race.”

The Motatapu is being held for the sixth consecutive year on March 13 and features a new 49km two-person adventure run and a 15km off road mountain run/walk alongside the main bike and off road marathon events.

“We are always looking at new ideas,” says Tracey, “and there are a number of people who have competed every year who are keen for something fresh. The R & R Sport adventure run is a serious mountain run taking in the new Motatapu walking trail, while the Motatapu Miners’ Trail mountain run/walk is less demanding heading over a spectacular loop from Arrowtown. All the events will conclude together in Arrowtown at the fi nish line beside the Arrow River.”

The Motatapu, which has over 100 volunteers who mostly return each year, is one of the country’s sporting success stories and is expected to endure for many years.

“It has a momentum of its own that will keep it going for a long time,” says Geoff. “We have created a framework for people to have special experiences and we often see families , like local MP Bill English and his brothers, getting together to compete. That’s the magic of the Motatapu.”

Tom Pryde agrees. “There’s a lot of growth left yet and it is a privilege to be able to run an event like the Motatapu through such an iconic landscape.”

TAMING THE MOTATAPU

It’s not just the attractive tree lined avenues and picturesque original cottages that lure people to Arrowtown in summer. The historic town has lots more to offer as Margo Berryman explains.

During summer visitors and locals fl ock to Arrowtown to enjoy the many walking tracks, gold panning, mountain biking and a range of other events and activities.

In the past fi ve years Arrowtown has been transformed from a quaint, sleepy village to a sizzling boutique attraction fi lled with stylish new shops offering everything from the latest New Zealand designer fashions to interior design, handmade furniture, fi nely crafted jewellery, a local brewery and the only Jade factory in the Southern Lakes region where people can see hand crafted objects being made.

An eclectic choice of entertainment includes the boutique movie theatre, Dorothy Browns, with its luxury seating and a contemporary bookstore to browse in during intermission. The Lakes District Museum at the far end of Buckingham Street features

interactive streetscapes of Arrowtown’s early gold rush years, informative displays of past and current events and regular art exhibitions.

Arrowtown stores have an outstanding selection including handmade chocolates, ice cream and sweet shops and excellent cafes. With the vineyards of Gibbston on the outskirts of the town, Arrowtown is also a showcase for Central Otago wine with wine bars and savvy award winning restaurants promoting the best of local produce and pinot noir.

President of the Arrowtown Promotion & Business Association Jono Palmer says there has been an increased focus on Arrowtown as an overnight and weekend destination in recent times.

“Arrowtown is a great alternative for people wanting to get out of the hustle and bustle of Queenstown. It makes a nice break with interesting river and track walks close by and there is a good selection of boutique accommodation to choose from.”

This summer the village will play host to two major events, the NZ Golf Open at The Hills in January and the Motatapu biking and running marathon in March. In April the town stages its own extravaganza, the Arrowtown Autumn Festival, which celebrates the changing colours and seasons.

ARROWTOWN 18

VIBRANT VILLAGE

19 ARROWTOWN

www.thegoldshop.co.nz e: goldshop@xtra.co.nz

Arrowtown is planning a big street party to celebrate the restoration of original miners’ cottages which have been saved from ruin thanks to the foresight of the Queenstown Lakes District Council and the community. James Beech reports.

The Granny Jones Cottage, Adams Cottage and Romans Cottage date back to the 1860s and 1870s, and were purchased by the Queenstown Lakes District Council in 2007, after concerns that an important part of Arrowtown’s heritage would be lost.

The Arrowtown Trust, which was established to help rescue the miners’ cottages from the brink of dereliction, has spearheaded the regeneration of the run down block into what is expected to be a thriving heritage quarter.

The precinct, bounded by Buckingham and Merioneth Streets, Romans Lane and Wiltshire Street is home to seven historic buildings but the three miners’ cottages are the key to the success of the area.

Trust Chairman David Clarke, who is also Director of the Lakes District Museum, says a community

launch, to mirror the street party 800 revellers held to celebrate the council’s purchase of the houses, is planned to commemorate the restoration and hand-over from the Trust back to the council.

The Trust was formed, not only to restore the 19th century cottages but also to find 21st century uses for them to ensure they are maintained well into the future.

A planned café in Romans Cottage will offer homemade baked goods, preserves and coffee. The landscaping is designed so people can enjoy their refreshments in a tranquil garden of traditional fruit trees and flowers.

It is hoped a small market will be held regularly, which will breathe new life into a part of Arrowtown that has been become run down.

‘’The precinct is one of the sunniest sites in the old street,’’ says David. ‘’People can sit on a hot day under the shade and look up at the hills in a relaxed atmosphere and charming surroundings.’’An architectural firm has its offices in Granny Jones Cottage and the Trust is currently securing professional tenants for Adams Cottage.

‘’There’s been very favourable reaction to the restoration from the community. Residents launched an expensive campaign to save the cottages,’’ says David. ‘’They’ve watched with interest and are pleased with the assurance the cottages will survive for at least another 150 years.’’

The precinct also features The Tap Bar, housed in a former colonial bank and the Odd Fellows Masonic Lodge, which was previously occupied by the Arrowtown Borough Council until amalgamation with Queenstown Lakes in 1989.

Cowies Cottage which was a chemist shop during the 1860s goldrush, along with a former council workshed now operating as the Arrowtown police station together with the last surviving crib in the town, make up the historic zone.

And the precinct may soon be home to another heritage landmark. The 138-year-old Millers Flat Church, used as a hall adjacent to St John’s Presbyterian Church since 1959, has been donated to the town by the parish and if consent is granted it will be shifted to a site behind Adams Cottage.

‘’The church has moved three times in 50 years and is still in very good order,’’ says David. ‘’This would be its last resting place and it could operate as an artist’s space or an art gallery. There’s lots of potential.”

MINERS’ COTTAGES LIVE ON

ART 20

Queenstown artist Angus Watson has a varied collection featuring nudes, landscapes, boats, horses and figures, which has earned him an international reputation.

His nudes reflect detailed tones of golds, reds and silvers and his watercolours use bright, vibrant colours. “I am making a bolder use of colour and my work tends towards impressionist.”

Angus has been a professional artist for more than 20 years and his distinctive work hangs in many homes not only in New Zealand but around the world. He is highly sought after for commissions and holds exhibitions around New Zealand.

He has an annual exhibition in January at his rural studio close to Queenstown and is currently preparing for the 2010 show. “Having my own exhibition gives me the chance to talk with people one on one about my work. Clients are always keen to know what inspires specific paintings.” Angus is also marketing a 2010 calendar of his favourite subjects.

“The calendar is more than just something to hang on the wall. It is a collection of paintings which have wide appeal and the prints can easily be framed once the calendar is out of date.” www.anguswatson.com

ARTIST IN STONE

For the past 22 years, self taught specialist jeweller Ray Wade has been working solely at his craft and making a distinctive name for himself in the art world.

His specialty is individually crafting beautiful natural stones such as mother of pearl, paua, agate, lapis, lazuli and amethyst into one-off pieces of jewellery. He says his love of collecting stones, started with gathering greenstone in Greymouth as a young boy, and polishing stones while living in Christchurch. “My personal style of design is to use shell or stone and marry it to a metal, usually silver or gold. I try to leave the raw material in its most natural state which leaves a more organic feel than what you get with a mass produced piece of jewellery.” Ray uses a wide range of stone gathered from around the world and locally from New Zealand’s south coast, Canterbury, South Westland and the Corromandel. His preference is to work at an artist in his own right but he also does some bespoke work on request. Visitors can enjoy watching him work in his Arrowtown gallery, where he also has on display a selection of his own wood cut prints and etchings.

Ray Wade

village peopleThe creative talents of local artists and craftspeople are on show over summer at the weekly Wakatipu Art and Craft market downtown Queenstown.

Held on Saturdays in the picturesque Earnslaw Park beside Lake Wakatipu, the market has become a favourite place for locals and visitors to spend time. With plenty of green space to sit and relax in the sun, there is an exciting buzz with over 30 stall holders displaying a huge variety of work.

New to this year’s markets are interactive displays such as wool spinning, mobile massage and artists painting in the open air, alongside an extensive range of art and craft for sale. There is everything from sculpture, pottery, paintings, jewellery and greenstone and bone carvings.

Fun and colourful collections of clothing, hats and knitwear sit alongside a wide selection of wood turning, glassware, photography and even handmade musical instruments. The market starts around 9.00am and runs through to 4.00pm with local musicians entertaining the crowds during the middle of the day. Rock, pop, fusion and jazz music adds a festival flavour. www.marketplace.net.nz

Angus Watson

30 Willshire St, ArrowtownPh 03 442 1672 Fax 03 442 1675 Cell 027 670 0869

(an easy walk up and around the cornerfrom the Arrowtown Bakery)

21 EVENT

Warbirds over Wanaka is an internationally renowned biennial Easter event which started out over 20

years ago as a one day picnic outing attracting 14,000 people. Jill Herron learned that today the spectacular event attracts up to 100,000 visitors.

Since it was launched by founder and legendary aviator Sir Tim Wallis and his team in 1988, the event has developed a reputation as one of the best warbird airshows in the world, attracting between 80,000-100,000 people over three days.

Sir Tim (71) an entrepreneur, pioneer of New Zealand’s deer farming industry and collector of historic aircraft takes a back seat these days after handing the event over to the Warbirds Over Wanaka Community Trust.

The 2010 show will be held on April 2, 3 and 4, the second successive year the Trust has run the show but a first for its newly appointed Event Manager Mandy Deans and CEO Roger Clark. The Trust is promising big things for 2010, boosting the number of participating aircraft to around 70, and introducing a host of new attractions on the ground. As well as superb classic warbirds such as the Kittyhawks, Spitfires, Corsairs, Mustangs, and Harvards there will be modern fighter jets, a Catalina, a diverse array of modern and historic helicopters and aerobatic displays including a performance by world champion Jurgis Kairys, Aircraft will be flown in realistic scenarios of wartime battles, the re-enactments being made even more authentic by large-scale pyrotechnic action, as well as

military vehicles and personnel joining in at ground level. New attractions have been introduced including the Goodbars.co.nz Regional Wine and Food Expo, an aircraft sales area and a special place just for blokes, showcasing everything to do with hunting, fishing, boating and getting airborne.

Around 30 WWII veterans are being hosted at the airshow and they will share their flying stories. “We are honoured to be hosting the veterans and mindful that they will not always be here,” says Mandy. “We are also offering incentives for families to attend, extending services available to disabled and elderly visitors and adding a children’s play area and creche.”

Warbirds Over Wanaka has helped put Wanaka and the Southern Lakes on the international map and the establishment of the community trust will ensure that the legacy created by Sir Tim Wallis will continue to develop into the future.

WARBIRDS OVER WANAKA 2010

Sir Tim Wallace

Spitfire over Lake Wanaka

WANAKA 22

Puzzling World Marketing Manager Duncan Spear says the new development will centre on an exciting illusionary sculpture indoor/outdoor garden being added to the existing Illusion Room complex.“Our applications for planning approval from the Queenstown Lakes District Council and the NZ Transport Authority are well under way now and we’re hopeful that we’ll be able to start construction in the not too distant future.”

Duncan and his wife Heidi, daughter of Puzzling World’s founder and mastermind Stuart Landsborough, took over the management of the tourist operation five years ago.

While they have recently refurbished the kitchen in the café, the sculpture garden is their first major building project since taking over.

Puzzling World already has four different illusion rooms but the new project will create the first all-season indoor/outdoor room at the complex and the aim is to make the space as environmentally friendly as possible.

“We’ll be using solar heating, sustainable materials and harness rain water for the garden.”

Well known Wanaka architect Sarah Scott is in

charge of design and Nelson sculptor, Derek Ball who made the faces for Puzzling World’s famous Hall of Following Faces, has been commissioned to create several pieces, including a giant wind deva for the new sculpture garden.

Duncan and Heidi also hope to involve Wellington-based Weta Workshop, best known for its special effects work for the Lord of the Rings trilogy, in developing some of the sculptural illusions.

They have also been searching internationally and have already purchased a piece entitled “Shimmer” from highly regarded American David C. Roy, who has been creating kinetic wooden sculptures for some 30 years.

“His are limited edition pieces and when they move they create a series of different and fascinating geometric patterns,” says Duncan.

Puzzling World has been challenging people of all ages and nationalities for the past 37 years with its three-dimensional Great Maze, its mix of illusion rooms and diverse range of puzzles and games.

Puzzling World’s extensive and quirky gift shop provides anything from a Turkish puzzle ring, to a 1000 piece photomosaic jigsaw puzzle or an intriguing

piece of illusion artwork.

The spacious café is designed for visitors to relax and play with the various display puzzles while enjoying a snack or light meal.

“Puzzling World is all about having affordable fun,” says Duncan. Entry for adults is set at $12.50, children $9 and children under five years go free. Family passes are also available.

Puzzling World attracts around 160,000 people a year but with plans for the novel sculptural garden taking shape, combined with the expected upsurge in visitors for special events like the 2011 Rugby World Cup, Duncan and Heidi are looking forward to attracting an even greater number, keen to take on the “puzzling eccentricity” which is the hallmark of the unique Wanaka tourist venture.

PUZZLING WORLD EXPANDSWanaka’s largest tourist attraction, Puzzling World, is building a $1m extension in time for the anticipated influx of visitors for the 2011 Rugby World Cup. Viv Milsom takes a look at the proposed expansion.

23 WANAKA

reservations@edgewater.co.nz

www.edgewater.co.nz

Freephone (within NZ)

0800 108 311

Bring yourself

here

Sargood Drive, Lake Wanaka

Phone: +64 3 443 0011Lake Wanaka Tourism’s new general manager James Helmore is no stranger to the Southern Lakes region or the tourism industry. Before moving “over the hill” from Queenstown in March 2009, he spent ten years in Queenstown working for both NZ Ski Ltd and Skyline Enterprises. He talked to Viv Milsom about his vision for Wanaka.

Along with his professional background, James has brought with him a deep respect and enthusiasm for the way of life in Wanaka. “I came to Wanaka as a child and coming back to live here now offers my family and I benefits at all sorts of levels.

There is a freedom to do what you want here.”

Married with two young children James, who in his younger days worked both as a ski instructor and a ski patroller, loves the outdoors and the mountains and is a keen skier and snowboarder.

Since arriving in Wanaka he has helped merge the local Winter Marketing Group with Lake Wanaka Tourism and considers the winter season is “key to Wanaka’s success as a visitor destination.”

The inaugural 100% Pure New Zealand Winter Games in August 2009 put ski and snowboard facilities in the area on the international map and James hopes the FIS Junior World Championships, planned for

the region in 2010, will promote Wanaka further as a key Southern Hemisphere winter destination.

He also anticipates that further collaboration between Cardrona and Treble Cone ski areas will become a reality before too long, and this will undoubtedly have benefits for both locals and visitors. A five day joint pass is already available which allows holders to alternate between the two ski areas.

Although there was a worldwide economic downturn during 2009, Wanaka’s guest nights pretty much held their own.

“Because of the four distinct seasons it’s easy to sell Wanaka throughout the year,” says James who is keen to identify a new event to fill what he sees as a “gap in spring.”

As an avid mountain biker and tramper James is excited about the near completion of the lakeside Wanaka to Glendhu Bay walking/biking track and the new riverside tracks linking Hawea to Albert Town, Wanaka and Luggate.

James has been impressed by Wanaka’s strong sense of community and pride in caring for the environment.

“People here have a passion for the environment, the landscape and the Wanaka lifestyle.” With this in mind James wants to attract more people to the area who have the same values. “They are the ‘right people’ and the aim should be to get them to stay longer, spend more and return again.”

He considers one way of achieving this is to take advantage of the rapidly growing social media networks.

“Travellers are choosing what to receive online and are using Facebook, Twitter and blogging to share information and opinions, including different travel destinations and experiences.”

James’ experience and enthusiasm for the ongoing development of Wanaka as a premier destination suggests the local tourist industry is in excellent hands.

“IMPRESSIONS BEHIND THE DOOR” The Wanaka Primary School’s “Impressions Behind the Door” annual house tour is expected to be a sell out again after last year’s overwhelming response.

The event is raising funds for equipment for the new primary school and will be held on March 27 2010. Ten homes are included in the tour offering people the chance to view some of the area’s most attractive properties. A spokesman says one of the newly constructed Wanaka Primary School innovative teaching “pods” will also be included in the tour.

“Last year 500 people took part in the tour and because of its popularity we are expecting even greater support this year. The diverse range of homes and the chance to visit the school site should have a lot of appeal.” During the tour local businesses including Mrs Robinson from Tarras and Material Girls will be showcasing their home products.

WANAKA HOMES ON DISPLAY

Wanaka Tourism Positive

James Helmore

Rob Roy Glacier

CROMWELL 24

Well known Christchurch company Hagley Building Products opened its purpose built Hagley Kitchens designer showroom in Cromwell in August 2008 and has now taken another step, merging with high profile Alexandra kitchen company Impact Kitchens, creating a super brand and providing the best in local knowledge, service and products.

Offering the very latest in kitchen design, led by award winning designer Sian Gillanders, Hagley Kitchens

has delivered a new level of expertise into the local building scene and by joining forces with Impact Kitchens is taking an even stronger position.

“This is a very exciting move for Hagley Kitchens and one that has given us a new edge of professionalism and the ability to expand our services into the greater Central Otago and Southern Lakes regions,” says Sian.

Impact Kitchens has more than 30 years joinery and cabinetry trade experience and has operated in Alexandra for the past 12 years. The team, led by Richard Todd along with Cliff Snape and Jim Laing, is excited about the merger with Hagley Kitchens and the new base in Cromwell.

“We have our own joinery factory complete with a 3D cad-design service so this allows us, as a merged company, to provide more locally based professional services with some of the manufacturing done on site

in Cromwell,” says Richard.

He says the primary focus of the new business structure is to increase the use of local suppliers and products, providing clients and the kitchen designers with greater flexibility in terms of price and timelines.

Hagley+Impact provides personalised quotes, style guidance, designer kitchen plans and quality kitchen fittings, refurbishments and installations. The showroom has the very latest cabinetry, finishes and kitchen hardware direct from Europe on display with special features such as Brazilian granite, “Le Mans” corner hardware and LED lighting available.

The combination of Richard’s team overseeing and project managing all jobs from pricing and measuring to installation, and Sian leading the design work which is her forte and passion, Hagley+Impact Kitchens is setting a new benchmark in kitchen design in the region.

Designer Kitchen Style

Richard Todd & Sian Gillanders

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25 CROMWELL

In 1990 Lake Dunstan was formed as part of the Clyde Hydro Dam and Cromwell’s original main street was flooded. While some of the town’s history was lost, a community based group Old Cromwell Incorporated, took action and saved several prominent buildings which now form an historic precinct, ensuring Cromwell’s heritage is preserved. Jenny McLeod visited the precinct.

Old Cromwell Inc is a community based group set up in 1988, with the aim of developing of Old Cromwell Town, to create a place where the past and present merge.

Eight of the foremost buildings were conserved by the organisation before the town was flooded, and are now being progressively restored to create the heritage precinct on a new site on the shores of Lake Dunstan, at the confluence of the Kawarau and Clutha rivers.

While the Old Cromwell Town historic precinct is still a “work in progress” the historic buildings, which have already been rebuilt, brilliantly capture the spirit of the original town dating back to the 1860s Otago goldrush.

The restored buildings have been adapted and several contemporary shops operate in the precinct such as Sequoia gift shop, Provisions of Central Otago and the Grain&Seed Café. A number of artists including fused glass and metal artwork craftspeople have their

base in the precinct along with a custom jewellery design business and an art gallery.

The Argus newspaper which for many years was the “voice of Cromwell” has a fascinating historical display about the old town and the hydro project which led to the creation of Lake Dunstan. The Argus office has been recreated, complete with the original printing press and “the editor” at his desk. Free self-guide maps of the precinct are available here.

Old Cromwell Town is the focus for a weekly summer farmers market (October-March) in the courtyard behind Provisions and spokesman Jane Shaw says it is now a well established community event with up to 25 stalls participating a week.

“Many people visit Cromwell on a Sunday specifically to come to the market. We have such a variety of stalls and after six years we have build up an excellent reputation.”

Sequoia owner Nicky Cleave is Cromwell born and bred and loves the ambience of Old Cromwell Town.

“It’s a wonderful location overlooking the water. It is a special little community of unique businesses and the visitors love it. It’s really become the heart of Cromwell.”

OLD CROMWELL TOWN INSPIRED BY THE PAST

Jane Shaw and Pauline Murphy. Nicky Cleeve (right)

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CAFE 26

LES ALPES PATISSERIE AND RESTAURANT

It’s a café , it’s a restaurant, it’s a patisserie, it’s a boulangerie, it’s Les Alpes and it’s everything French. Les Alpes hasn’t been in existence for long but has acquired plenty of attention for its Gallic flair and fine food. The café is named after a mountain range in the south of France and owners Anne-Marie and Serge Guilhaumou are passionate about food and wine.

Les Alpes is a café from 8am – to 4pm each day serving typical French café fare -then it transforms into a restaurant at night, offering a true French fine dining experience. The seasonal menu has French classics like coq au vin and escargots as well as steak, fish and lamb – it’s a gastronomical delight.

Les Alpes has a fine selection of fresh bread and pastries daily and the deli stocks a range of French cheeses and other delectables. This summer they are offering takeaway sandwiches and introducing handmade ice cream to their range.

We advise that you check out the wine cellar with many French wines at sale prices. The current best seller – Petit Chablis.

Find Les Alpes in Church Street open 8am till late seven days a week. Bookings for dinner are recommended.

Large groups are welcome at Les Alpes with the bistro style restaurant having a large wooden table, reminiscent of a traditional French mountain chalet, available to accommodate parties or groups who want to share their meals together.

cafe directory‘ with Jo Blick

27 CAFE

LEONARDO’S CAFé AND ESPRESSO BAR

Leonardo’s is another Queenstown café that’s a little out of the way but worth tracking down. Head out of town down Gorge Road, then take a right into Gorge Road Retail Centre. It’s a trip worth making, as this buzzing little sunshine yellow cafe has a well deserved reputation, forged over 15 years in Queenstown.

We love the scrumptious home made food. Choose from the menu boards or be tempted by the cabinet, offering a superb selection of pies, paninis and cakes, all of which taste as good as they look. The mini quiches are especially yummy!

If you’re a coffee nut you will fall in love with Leonardo’s brew. It’s absolutely delicious and served up good and strong by cafe owner Rita, who roasts her own Fair Trade organic coffee beans on site.

We’re grateful for the free parking and the outside dining area, perfect for those lazy sunny days. Make the trip for breakfast, brunch or lunch but remember that Leonardo’s is closed at the weekends.If you are on the run there is plenty of fresh, homemade food options to choose from that can be purchased to “take away.” The cabinet is packed full every morning with goodies that will make your work mates wish they had bought their lunch from Leonardo’s. It’s a handy place to swing in and out of as you head out of Queenstown to Arthur’s Point, Arrowtown or further afield.

HALOThis heavenly café’s name comes courtesy of neighbour and landlord, St Peter’s Anglican Church. Halo occupies a prime space right beside this picturesque stone church overlooking its beautiful grounds.Halo has a great reputation for daytime dining. Start your day with bacon and eggs ($12.50) from the breakfast menu ( available from 7am-3pm).The brunch menu comes on line at 3pm offering everything from garlic bread and toasted sandwiches through to more substantial meals. There is a great salad selection including Caesar and Grilled Chicken and Cashew ($15 – $17.50). The brunch menu is added to after 5pm with a night time specials menu which had a delicious sounding Mushroom Stroganoff the night we were there.The burgers are brilliant. The spicy Mexican-style burger is a treat but the Kiwi Burger is even better. A large puffy bun, a perfectly cooked pattie and of course the ubiquitous slice of beetroot. It was Kiwiana on a plate. Teamed with big, chunky chips it is good value at $16.50.Thirsty people can choose from a full range of beverages, including Gravity Coffee. The café is licensed and offers a good selection of Central Otago wines and both local and imported beers (wine from $8 per glass, beer from $5). Check out the fabulous juice combos including the Zinger (lime, orange and passionfruit).Overall: Halo is a godsend whether it’s breakfast at 7am or a late supper before it closes at 10pm.

GRIND CAFé

Located in the Frankton Industrial Estate, just three minutes from Queenstown Airport, Grind Café is well worth seeking out and you’ll be hooked once you experience this humming espresso bar and café.

We love the stylish décor, interesting wall art and fab music along with the stunning outside dining patio offering extensive views of the surrounding mountain ranges and the Shotover River below. Grind is worth a visit for the view alone!

It’s not just about the scenery though – Grind is renowned as one of “the” spots for superb espresso coffee, all double shots of course! Check out the fresh range of all fruit smoothies or order a cheeseboard and accompany it with a glass from the new summer wine menu. Grind offers fantastic brunch and lunch menu options and whether it’s a classic eggs Benedict or a take out toasted mushroom bagel from the display cabinet, Grind caters for all tastes and budgets.

The staff are friendly – owner Ben Owens leads his café team with a good dollop of Kiwi hospitality and friendliness. The jokes are on the house and nothing is a problem at Grind with children well catered for with a toy box and Allen the long-suffering café cat.

We love Grind’s food, the company and the jaw dropping views. Make a note to visit this vibrant little café tucked away in the Shotover Ridge Business Park – you definitely won’t be disappointed!

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Consistency is a word executive chef for Good Group, Leungo Lippe, uses often to explain why the Botswana Butchery concept has had such a winning streak since the Wanaka restaurant was opened in June 2007 followed by its sister premises in Queenstown in August 2008.

“People like us and return repeatedly for many reasons whether it’s the food, wine, staff, ambience, location, or a combination of all these,” he says. “The clincher is when they return for a second, third, or tenth time and they are never disappointed. Every aspect of our restaurants is consistent in delivering to the highest standard.”

The Botswana Butchery concept was born over a few beers between Leungo, who hails from Botswana, and Good Group’s major shareholder, Al Spary. Chatting idly in Wanaka one Friday afternoon they decided Wanaka needed a fresh, fun dining destination.

“Al suggested a steak house and I came up with the idea to offer the a la carte and wood grill,” says Leungo.

“Back then we knew it was important to offer the local market something they could relate to and enjoy but we wanted to capture their imagination as well. Marrying up the Kiwi love of a good cut of meat with a full package a` la carte menu seemed like a winning idea so we ran with it. The plan was to keep the cuisine simple and do it well.”

Patrons can choose their preferred meat, breed and cut, either seared or wood grilled. Sauces and vegetable accompaniments are similarly varied for personal taste. Vegetarian and fish enthusiasts are not forgotten with some excellent dishes featuring on the a` la carte menu. Leungo credits the wait staff for reinforcing the reputation of Botswana Butchery restaurants by providing exceptional service in line with their brand of “fun dining.”

“Our front of house team is consistently on the money when it comes to providing our guests with the key information they need, to get the most from the menu. At the same time they can read exactly how each individual guest wants to be looked after and then

deliver their service accordingly.”

The Queenstown restaurant is located on Marine Parade on the lake front, and its deck overlooking Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains, provides an impressive al fresco dining experience in a unique alpine environment. Wanaka’s Botswana Butchery is located in the Post Office Lane premium food and beverage precinct, within easy walking distance of holiday accommodation in the area.

Both Wanaka and Queenstown restaurants have continued their upward trading trend and Leungo is buoyed by this result.

“It’s a good indication we are delivering on what two friends set out to do over a beer. It’s been an exciting project and we want to keep developing our menus each season to encourage both new and return business. Our new summer menu is focusing on organic regional produce and we are sure it will have the usual good following amongst local clients and visitors to the area.”

BOTSWANABUTCHERY A WINNER

The Botswana Butchery concept was a simple idea, developed over a couple of beers, and today the restaurants in both Wanaka and Queenstown, operated by Good Group Limited, are among the region’s top dining spots. Claire Hazeldine finds out the secret of their success.

Botswana Butchery Queenstown

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AMISFIELD PINOT NOIR 2007 TAKES INTERNATIONAL GOLDThe reputation of the successful Amisfield Pinot Noir 2007 has been further cemented with the awarding of a gold medal at the celebrated 2009 New Zealand International Wine Show. Jenny McLeod reports.Amisfield Wine Company’s newest vintage won a Top 100 Blue Gold award earlier this year at the Sydney International Wine Competition and General Manager Fleur Caulton says the latest accolade from the New Zealand International Wine Show is further endorsement of the wine’s outstanding qualities.

“The Pinot Noir 2007 is proving to be a stand out wine. It is exciting to have the backing of renowned wine judges whose opinions are very influential. We are obviously very pleased with the recognition the wine, made by winemaker Claire Mulholland is attracting. It definitely has the x-factor which sets it apart.”

The New Zealand International Wine Show is the largest wine competition in New Zealand and this year’s competition was conducted under the chairmanship of the country’s most experienced senior wine judge, Bob Campbell MW. The judging panel included leading winemakers, several Masters of Wine and key industry personnel. The Amisfield Pinot Noir 2007 will be listed, along with other gold, silver, bronze and trophy winners in the New Zealand International Wine Show’s Champions List providing significant promo tional spin offs for the winery.

DISCOUNTED WINE - A SLIPPERY SLOPE FOR PRODUCERS

ALAN BRADY

What does a wine company do when it has large stocks of wine as a result of a bumper harvest, but is faced with markets that are over supplied and already depressed, because of a global downturn in demand? Wine columnist Alan Brady discusses the issue.

The answer for many wine companies is to drop prices dramatically and sell the wine as quickly as possible, often in bulk, unbottled or unlabelled to some large distributor who is able to spread it around countless, cut-price liquor outlets under an anonymous one-off label. At best it’s a stop-gap solution for

the producer, at worst it will drag down not only his reputation, but that of the region or category in which he operates.

The consumer gets a bargain because he is purchasing good wine at 50% of its real value, the wholesaler/retailer get his normal 30-40% mark-up and the producer, with zero margin, has at least kept the bank off his back for now because he has covered the cost of producing the wine.

Sounds like a win, win, win. Not so.

The consumer will certainly benefit in the short term though whether the punter whose price range is $10 to $12 really appreciates the value for money he is getting is questionable. The middle men achieve their fast turn-over goals with minimal risk and predictable costs and profit margin.

But the grapegrower-winemaker who has toiled for a year with all the vagaries of climate, gently harvesting his grapes and nursing them through the fermentation process to produce quality wine, is left high and dry. To survive, if he survives, he will

have to cut his costs drastically the following year by putting less effort into his vineyard, resulting in lower quality grapes and wine. This in turn means his traditional customers, those who had come to respect and trust his wine when times were better, will no longer be there for him and he may find himself locked permanently in the already crowded lower end market.

It’s a gloomy scenario but real enough for many wine growers in New Zealand.

And it’s ceertainly real in the Australian wine industry where over production and discounting in recent years has resulted in a drop in retail prices, which sees it competing in export markets, with countries which can produce cheap wine more cost effectively.

The Winemakers’ Federation of Australia estimated that the industry had produced 1.71 million tonnes more grapes in 2009 than were needed. On the other hand New Zealand (total production this year 285,000 tonnes) is a niche producer and can’t afford to be drawn into the race to fill the bargain bins.

Our region, Central Otago, is a microscopic version of the national industry. We too have been guilty of over planting resulting in good pinot noir being discounted in bulk sales by mainly new producers, desperate to maintain some cash flow.

The longer established players who have patiently grafted away to create niche markets around the world, understand the importance and value of the reputation the region has achieved in a relatively short time. They know their niche consumers understand the effort and cost required to produce quality pinot noir and are prepared to pay a premium price if the wine measures up to their expectations.

As a cool region we can continue to deliver quality only if we are meticulous in our vineyards, restrict our yields, and maintain the highest standards right through to the bottle. Cutting corners and heavily discounting the product will not guarantee survival but will drag the region down a road which ultimately will be unsustainable.

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Queenstown’s Japanese Kappa Restaurant and Bar, is a local’s favourite for lunch and dinner. Margo Berryman checked out the menu.

Kappa is not the easiest to find but it’s worth the effort. Located at the top of the Queenstown Mall the little Japanese eatery has a non-descript entrance. Just look for the bright red street sign and head up the narrow flight of stairs.

The open kitchen and compact table seating arrangement provides a convivial, fun, social setting with extra space available on the covered balcony looking out over the resort.

Kappa has a big reputation for authentic Japanese food that is fresh, tasty and inexpensive. Owners Nao and Miri Higuchi have been running Kappa for the past three years, and along with their dedicated Japanese staff have created a hospitable and welcoming restaurant with a distinctive buzz.

Open for both lunch and dinner, the Kappa menu is easy to follow and includes a diverse selection of sushi, sashimi, teriyaki, and tempura.

Nao is a skilled chef, trained in Japan, and likes to create “tapas” style Japanese food, with smaller dishes for everyone to share.

A specials’ board changes daily for evening dining,

offering tempting and sometimes quite unique dishes, using seasonal produce such as whitebait, oysters and scallops.

My personal favourites include the Agadashi Tofu and the Kappa Lunch box filled with delicious vegetable tempura, sliced sushi roll, chicken and a choice of one or two tempura prawns. There is also a vegetarian lunch box option and the Kappa salad is in a league of its own.

Kappa is a hive of activity at lunchtime, a popular place with the local business crowd. But the tables turn over quickly and there is also an express service for “take out” food.

At night the restaurant attracts a mixture of visitors and locals enjoying the authentic range of Japanese food.

A contemporary wine and beer list includes Central Otago and New Zealand wines along with Japanese beer and of course the traditional Japanese drop, sake.

Kappa is considered by some of its clientele to be one of the best Japanese eating places in New Zealand. Try it for lunch and you are bound to return for dinner.

The Kappa Restaurant and Bar – open Monday to Saturday 12pm- till late. Closed Sundays and Public Holidays. Tel: 03 4411423

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EATING JAPANESE

Left: Nao Higuchi

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CONTEMPORARY FOOD AND STYLE AT FINZ Finz Seafood and Grill has always been a popular choice with Queenstown diners but a recent restyle has given it a sleek new look transforming it into a must-dine destination. Jo Blick sampled the hospitality. Located on Steamer Wharf on the lakefront, Finz has the definite feel of a bistro with crisp white table cloths and wooden chairs.

Martin James of 4Front Dining, the business partnership responsible for creating some of Queenstown’s most

notable restaurants, says that’s the image they want to achieve.

“We’ve always loved the idea of a bistro and we really wanted to have that sort of feel and retain the seafood menu. The restaurant has always had the official title of Finz Seafood and Grill and now it really deserves that name. It’s predominantly a seafood restaurant but offering plenty for the ‘male meat eaters’ as well.”

A glance at the menu confirms this. The emphasis is on simple, uncomplicated, fresh food at affordable prices and there’s not much on the menu over $30. There’s a choice of five or six different fish varieties including salmon, whole baked sole and turbot. Those who don’t feel like seafood are well served with options including braised beef ribs, pork chops and rib eye steak. Oyster lovers will also be delighted that Finz endeavours to have the tasty molluscs on the menu all year round.

The seafood platter for two is always popular with and monkfish is also gathering a following. Finz serves

its monkfish wrapped in bacon accompanied by green beans, roasted tomatoes and salsa verde and Martin says the fish has a hearty texture that carries meat well. The Finz dessert trolley with its selection of individual servings of favourites like tiramisu and crème brulee is incredibly tempting and an ever popular feature is the special kids menu, reflecting the restaurant’s “child friendly” environment.

Finz is a great location. Diners can watch the Earnslaw head off on its evening cruise and keep an eye on the people strolling on Steamer Wharf. It is a great place for solo diners, couples and families but also caters for large groups with its expansive front booth capable of seating up to a dozen guests.

Finz is definitely a Queenstown dining experience and the new image underlines the group’s commitment to providing a contemporary restaurant and menu to match. Finz is fully licensed and opens for dinner from 5pm, seven nights a week.