Christchurch tourist attraction up for sale as leading operator sheds businesses
One of New Zealand’s leading tourism operators is selling off a number of businesses across the South Island, including Christchurch’s International Antarctic Centre.
RealNZ has announced plans for “future growth”, acting chief executive Paul Norris said on Wednesday, including changes to its portfolio of business to “better align to the organisation’s purpose” and its focus on inspiring an interest in conservation.
As well as selling the International Antarctic Centre, RealNZ is also offloading its Queenstown Jet Boats tourism business, Queenstown Ferry (water taxis), and the Stewart Island Lodge.
The company also owns the historic Walter Peak homestead on the shore of Lake Whakatipu, and is exploring new ways to “expand” guests’ experiences there. It hopes to sell its vessel Spirit of Queenstown to fellow tourism operator Southern Discoveries, with the boat continuing to provide trips to Walter Peak.
Read the full story from reporter Carly Gooch here (subscription required - first two stories a month free).
Poll: Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲
The Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.
We want to know: Should mining projects like this move ahead?
Keen to dig deeper? Mike White has the scoop.
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53.3% Yes
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46.7% No
Poll: Pedestrian access is being extended to the Ōtakaro Avon River - good idea?
Pedestrian access from one of Christchurch’s favourite streets is being extended all the way to the Ōtakaro Avon River. This new 12m-wide pathway will give you a direct, easy route from the street to the river promenade ... perfect for a stroll, a coffee run, or just soaking up the riverside vibes.
We want to know: In your view, what makes a city people-friendly?
What else should our urban areas be doing to support better community connections?
Curious about the full plans? You can check them out here.
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92.3% Yes
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7.7% No
A riddle to start the festive season 🌲🎁🌟
I'm a fruit. If you take away my first letter, I'm a crime. If you take away my first two letters, I'm an animal. If you take away my first and last letter, I'm a form of music. What am I?
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
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Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.
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