Hunter Valley, Wanaka

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275 days ago

Queenstown on fast-tracked building boom to create rooms for visitors and workers

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Otago News

Read reporter Debbie Jamieson's full story

Two large-scale Queenstown accommodation developments have been accepted for fast-tracking as developers eye tourism opportunities.

One is a six-storey hotel with up to 185 rooms, on the Man St car park in central Queenstown.

The other is a … View more
Read reporter Debbie Jamieson's full story

Two large-scale Queenstown accommodation developments have been accepted for fast-tracking as developers eye tourism opportunities.

One is a six-storey hotel with up to 185 rooms, on the Man St car park in central Queenstown.

The other is a proposal to provide 400 to 600 residential units for temporary worker accommodation in Frankton.

Plans for both are yet to be lodged with the Environment Protection Authority and considered by an expert consenting panel.

The proposals show an ongoing enthusiasm by Queenstown developers to use the fast-track consenting process established during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The legislation blocked the public from the resource consent process in order to fast track projects that created jobs and stimulated the economy.

here (subscription required).

276 days ago

NZ ski town face-off: And the winner is...

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Otago News

Stuff has been on the hunt for New Zealand’s best ski town and, after a week of pitting some of the country’s best-loved spots against each other, the results are in: Wānaka is our favourite by far.

Of the seven shortlisted towns announced on Monday, Queenstown’s quieter little sister … View more
Stuff has been on the hunt for New Zealand’s best ski town and, after a week of pitting some of the country’s best-loved spots against each other, the results are in: Wānaka is our favourite by far.

Of the seven shortlisted towns announced on Monday, Queenstown’s quieter little sister secured 31% of reader votes, putting it well ahead of second placeholders Methven, at the base of Mt Hutt, and carrot capital Ohakune, each of which landed 18% of votes.

The photogenic old gold rush town of Arrowtown came third with 13% of votes, while fourth place was shared by Mackenzie alpine village Lake Ohau and Canterbury hot pool haven Hanmer Springs, which each claimed 9% of votes.

Just 2% of readers voted for Tūrangi in the Ruapehu region.

Queenstown, Albert Town, Saint Arnaud, Raetihi, National Park Village, Springfield and Tekapo were all eliminated in the semi-finals.

About an hour’s drive from Queenstown Airport via the super-scenic Crown Range Road or 90 minutes via the easier-going Kawarau Gorge, Wānaka is within easy driving distance of four ski fields.

With its mountain-hugged, glacier-carved lake, the Central Otago town has all the visual appeal of nearby Queenstown with smaller crowds. It’s far from a sleepy hollow, however, with adventure activities galore, and plenty of top spots to eat and drink.

NZ ski town face-off winners
Wānaka
Methven and Ohakune
Arrowtown
Lake Ohau and Hanmer Springs
Tūrangi

Is Wānaka New Zealand’s best ski town? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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276 days ago

Queenstown rental listing 'experiment' highlights market problems

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Otago News

A cabin without a bathroom or kitchen listed for rent in Queenstown this week has been removed from Facebook Marketplace after concerns were raised about it.

The cabin was in the backyard of a Lake Hayes Estate property, and was losted for $250 a week including utilities.

“Furnished. No … View more
A cabin without a bathroom or kitchen listed for rent in Queenstown this week has been removed from Facebook Marketplace after concerns were raised about it.

The cabin was in the backyard of a Lake Hayes Estate property, and was losted for $250 a week including utilities.

“Furnished. No insulation, but it has a small heater. No bathroom or kitchen,” the listing said.

A Tenancy Services spokesperson said it would be unlawful to rent out the cabin for residential purposes as a standalone proposition, as such rentals needed to have, or have access to, appropriate cooking and bathroom facilities.


But when approached by Stuff the lister, Tommy Fu, said the cabin was not really for rent, and the listing was an experiment.

Read the full story by reporter Miriam Bell here.

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277 days ago

The Coromandel Good for your soul

Destination Hauraki Coromandel

Reconnect with the simple things, slow down and discover the quiet beauty of our nature in the cooler months. Be refreshed and reinvigorated by walking the trails in our green hills, indulge in some boutique retail therapy and be warmed by the welcome from our locals, sharing their homegrown … View moreReconnect with the simple things, slow down and discover the quiet beauty of our nature in the cooler months. Be refreshed and reinvigorated by walking the trails in our green hills, indulge in some boutique retail therapy and be warmed by the welcome from our locals, sharing their homegrown creativity and hospitality.

Soak in our thermal springs, be inspired by our artists and artisans, breathe in the scent of our great outdoors or savour our homegrown flavours. However you do it, come and winter our way.
Find out more

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277 days ago

Paint it red with Resene for Red Nose Day!

Resene

Hello neighbours! Want to help put a big smile on little faces? Buy any red testpot (60 mL) from your local Resene owned ColorShop between 13-31 July 2023 and Resene will donate $1 to Cure Kids.

The more red testpots you buy, the more will be donated!
Paint it red now!

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278 days ago

What's your favourite spring salad? Share your recipe

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

There's still time to submit your recipe to win the September issue of NZ Gardener! Every month, we run a series of reader recipes using a seasonal crop. This month, we're on the hunt for spring salad recipes! Send your best ones to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz by July 23, 2023. Every … View moreThere's still time to submit your recipe to win the September issue of NZ Gardener! Every month, we run a series of reader recipes using a seasonal crop. This month, we're on the hunt for spring salad recipes! Send your best ones to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz by July 23, 2023. Every published recipe wins a copy of the September issue of NZ Gardener.

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279 days ago

Have you got your tickets yet?

Heart Foundation

You could win this fully furnished home in South Island’s stunning Wānaka! Buy your tickets today for a chance to make the snow-topped mountains and crisp, clear lake your very own backyard with a home in the heart of Wanaka!

Worth over $1.5 million this Jennian Homes build features four … View more
You could win this fully furnished home in South Island’s stunning Wānaka! Buy your tickets today for a chance to make the snow-topped mountains and crisp, clear lake your very own backyard with a home in the heart of Wanaka!

Worth over $1.5 million this Jennian Homes build features four bedrooms, two bathrooms and boasts a stylish open-plan kitchen, living and dining area for year-round entertainment.

Make this property your permanent residence, a holiday home, rent it or even sell it – it could be all yours for only $15! Be in to win by purchasing your tickets today.
Buy tickets now

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281 days ago

Over $17,000 Worth Of TVs Up For Grabs

The TV Guide

This winter, we are backing the Football Ferns with our loyal TV Guide readers who will have a chance to win 1 of 5 Premium 65” Panasonic 4K LED TVs worth $3599 each

Pick up a copy of The TV Guide each week starting from the July 15 issue, find the codeword, and follow the directions to … View more
This winter, we are backing the Football Ferns with our loyal TV Guide readers who will have a chance to win 1 of 5 Premium 65” Panasonic 4K LED TVs worth $3599 each

Pick up a copy of The TV Guide each week starting from the July 15 issue, find the codeword, and follow the directions to be in to win! We’ve put a codeword in each of the following three issues, so find them all for more chances to win. You’ll have until August 20 to enter online or mail in your codeword.
T&Cs apply.
Find Out More

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282 days ago

Mānawatia a Matariki!

The Team from NZ Compare

The rising of Matariki (a cluster of stars also known as the Pleiades) marks the beginning of the Māori New Year. Happy Māori New Year from the team at NZ Compare!

It is a wonderful time to reflect, to connect with whānau (family), with our taiao (environment), and to celebrate what has … View more
The rising of Matariki (a cluster of stars also known as the Pleiades) marks the beginning of the Māori New Year. Happy Māori New Year from the team at NZ Compare!

It is a wonderful time to reflect, to connect with whānau (family), with our taiao (environment), and to celebrate what has passed and what is to come. We hope you have a warm and safe Matariki.

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284 days ago

Southern Community Labs’ name has changed

Awanui Labs

Hi there – when you’re next on your way for a blood test, look out for our new name – Awanui Labs.

We’re at the same place, providing the same service, with the same smile, but under a new name.

The new name brings together our eight brands from across Aotearoa – from Northland to … View more
Hi there – when you’re next on your way for a blood test, look out for our new name – Awanui Labs.

We’re at the same place, providing the same service, with the same smile, but under a new name.

The new name brings together our eight brands from across Aotearoa – from Northland to Southland. You can learn about what our new name means or find your nearest centre.

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285 days ago

Lap times change, weekly fees won't...

The Team from Ryman Healthcare

When you move to a Ryman village, the last thing you need to think about are unexpected costs. We offer financial security with rates, home insurance, exterior maintenance and gardening all covered under one fixed base weekly fee*, meaning once you’ve moved in you can focus on the things you … View moreWhen you move to a Ryman village, the last thing you need to think about are unexpected costs. We offer financial security with rates, home insurance, exterior maintenance and gardening all covered under one fixed base weekly fee*, meaning once you’ve moved in you can focus on the things you enjoy.

Find out more about our living options today and get ready for a new lifestyle.

*Weekly fees only increase if you change from independent living to serviced apartment living, or you add extra care options.
Learn more

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285 days ago

Free and independent complaint service

Telecommunications Dispute Resolution

Connection issues got you feeling sad? Extra charges making you mad? We encourage you talk to your provider first, often they will solve it quickly.

However, if it remains unresolved or if you need some help making your complaint, talk to TDR – your free and independent complaint service.

View more
Connection issues got you feeling sad? Extra charges making you mad? We encourage you talk to your provider first, often they will solve it quickly.

However, if it remains unresolved or if you need some help making your complaint, talk to TDR – your free and independent complaint service.

We’re here to help when phone and internet disputes go bad.
Find out more

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287 days ago

Please welcome the Heart Foundation!

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

We are incredibly proud to welcome our new Neighbourly partner – the New Zealand Heart Foundation!

Not only will they be helping us to stay ‘heart healthy in our neighbourhoods,’ the Heart Foundation will also be sharing:

- News & updates from the incredible Heart Foundation Lottery… View more
We are incredibly proud to welcome our new Neighbourly partner – the New Zealand Heart Foundation!

Not only will they be helping us to stay ‘heart healthy in our neighbourhoods,’ the Heart Foundation will also be sharing:

- News & updates from the incredible Heart Foundation Lottery – including how to win a brand-new home (check out our latest Lottery here)
- Heart-warming stories including how the Heart Foundation supports those in the community living with heart disease
- Handy heart health and wellbeing resources and tips
- How you can show your big heart through local volunteering opportunities
- How to eat healthy to your heart’s content with some great recipes

Please join us in giving the Heart Foundation a warm, hearty welcome!
Find out more

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287 days ago

Make Hope the Headline

The Giving Store

We don’t need to go too far to hear about the cost of living crisis and the fact is, right now, 1 in 6 children go without essentials like food and clothing. While we can’t control this cost, we can make a difference. The Giving Store works to help kiwis give to kiwis.

When you donate one of… View more
We don’t need to go too far to hear about the cost of living crisis and the fact is, right now, 1 in 6 children go without essentials like food and clothing. While we can’t control this cost, we can make a difference. The Giving Store works to help kiwis give to kiwis.

When you donate one of our Winter Essential Packs, 100% of your donation will go to families in need this winter. Let's not let the cost of living get in the way of giving. Together, we can make hope the headline
Find out more

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290 days ago

Christchurch tourist attraction up for sale as leading operator sheds businesses

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Otago News

One of New Zealand’s leading tourism operators is selling off a number of businesses across the South Island.

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 … View more
One of New Zealand’s leading tourism operators is selling off a number of businesses across the South Island.

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 in Christchurch, 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).

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