Lace up your boots! It’s time to tackle these lesser-known summer walking trails
There’s no doubt that Wānaka’s iconic Roy’s Peak Track is worth the attention it receives on Instagram, but tackle this 5-6 hour track instead and you’ll be able to capture those magical alpine vistas, without having to queue up at the summit.
You’ll start out following Stewart Creek, then climb uphill and eventually reach a ridge. The undulating terrain and steep sections can be tough, but you’ll forget how tired you are when you glimpse those sweet views of Lake Wānaka, Lake Hāwea and the Southern Alps.
Getting there: The track start is just off the SH6 about a half-hour drive from Wānaka.
Want more? The Queenstown Hill walk is a local favourite, with stunning alpine views and a trail that can be completed in a few hours.
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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53.5% Yes
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46.5% 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.
🚒 Our Fire and Emergency crews have been kept busy lately
And they’re once again reminding everyone: please don’t light fires when it’s windy.
Central Otago will move into a restricted fire season from 1 December 2025, which means anyone planning an outdoor fire will need to apply for a permit and plan ahead.
So we’d love to ask you — how do you make sure you’re being fire-safe at this time of year?
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