SPRING 2010

QUEENSTOWN • ARROWTOWN • WANAKA • CROMWELL

qtmagazine

INNOVATIVE WANAKA HOME | SILVER RIBBON AWARENESS | ARTISTIC FLAIRSPRING FASHION | WINERY TOURISM | MILFORD SOUND HERITAGE SEARLE LANE SOCIALISING | LEGO HOUSING | SPRING GARDENING | LIFE SYNERGY

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TE HUIA, STORE AND GALLERY 100% New Zealand Made

Like the Huia feather, the clothing and products at Te Huia are unique and precious. In this day and age it can be hard to find anything that has been made in New Zealand but at Te Huia absolutely everything has been designed and made right here in this fabulous country.

ARROWTOWN is located just 15 minutes from Queenstown and is one of New Zealand’s 3 Heritage towns, founded in 1861 when gold was first discovered in the South Island. Visit and enjoy Arrowtown’s unique mix of history, activities, leisure and shopping. For a special shopping experience, visit Arrowtown’s new store and gallery, Te Huia.

Rae West

New Zealand Design

38 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown. Ph: (03) 442 1355 E: info@tehuianz.com

High quality men’s and women’s clothing, knitwear, leather, jewellery, home furnishings, art, body products, gifts and accessories.

NEWS BRIEF

6 & 7. NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGION

PROFILES

8. LOCAL TALK – INNOVATIVE LOCAL PEOPLE

10. SILVER RIBBON FOUNDATION RAISES CANCER AWARENESS

14. ARROWTOWN LINKS WITH AUSTRALIA’S FIRST SAINT

15. NEW DESIGN STORE FOR ARROWTOWN

22. LIFE CHANGING TRANSPLANT FOR CURE KIDS AMBASSADOR

26. GOLDEN GATE LODGE FOCUSES ON COMMUNITY

ARTISTS

16 & 17. SHOWCASE OF LOCAL ARTISTS

EVENTS

12. 2010 QUEENSTOWN JAZZ FESTIVAL

28. REGIONAL EVENT CALENDAR

SHOPPING

11. ARROWTOWN FASHION STORES TAKE A LEAD

27. CENTRAL OTAGO LIFESTYLE CENTRE – LANDSCAPING AND GARDEN DESIGN

ARCHITECTURE

9. WANAKA HOUSE WINS PRESTIGIOUS DESIGN AWARD

23. HIGH PERFORMANCE HOMES – AFFORDABLE DESIGN

24. SUSTAINABLE BUILDING PRACTICES IN CROMWELL

OUTDOORS

18. OUT AND ABOUT IN THE WAKATIPU

19. REAL JOURNEY’S EXCURSIONS

20. MILFORD DISCOVERY CENTRE LAUNCHED

21. SOUTHERN DISCOVERIES SUPPORTS MILFORD SANCTUARY

CAFÉ DIRECTORY

30. CAFÉ REVIEWS WITH JO BLICK

TASTE

32. WINE EXPERT ALAN BRADY ON WINERY TOURISM

33. FISHBONE BAR AND GRILL –SEAFOOD AT ITS BEST

34. SEARLE LANE & SOCIAL – CASUAL SOCIABILITY

35. BELLA CUCINA’S ITALIAN FLAIR

QT magazine contents - spring issue 2010

QT Magazine is published quarterly by QT Publishing and printed by ODT Print. Managing Editor Margo Berryman margo@bgmedia.co.nz. Editor Jenny McLeod mcleod@queenstown.co.nz Design Jo Ruthven jo@fetchnz.com Photography Julian Grimmond julian@bgmedia.co.nz Print hannah@odtprint.co.nz COVER: HOME MAGAZINE HOUSE OF THE YEAR WINNER - WANAKA

NEWS 6

News from around the regionwith Jenny McLeod

creating inspirational places to live and work

www.matisse.co.nz Please visit our showroom at Unit A Shotover Ridge, 179 Glenda Dr, Frankton T 03 409 0855

The world’s leading brands of residential and commercial furniture, kitchens, bathrooms, lighting and wardrobes

100% PURE NEW ZEALAND GAMES ON TRACK FOR 2011The 100% Pure New Zealand Winter Games will be staged in the Southern Lakes in August 2011 following confirmation of funding from key government and local government partners.The successful inaugural event was held in 2009 and the vision of the Winter Games NZ board is to hold the winter sports event every to years.Chairman Sir Eion Edgar says “we are delighted with the level of government support from the Major Events Development Fund, SPARC and Tourism New Zealand which has ensured the future of this highly regarded event. They recognise the success of the first Winter Games and support the continued growth into 2011.”The 2009 Winter Games marked a milestone by staging the first winter sports event of its kind outside the Winter Olympics and by including adaptive snowsports in able bodied competition. The 2011 programme scheduled for August 13-28 will be expanded to include an alpine Super G and adaptive Super G at Mt Hutt in Canterbury. The remaining alpine events will be raced at Coronet Peak.Dunedin will be the ice sports centre and speed skating will be included along with figure skating and ice hockey. The ice hockey tournament will be a round robin featuring four international teams. The curling competition will be held at the international rink at Naseby and will be extended to include mixed pairs.Freeski and snowboarding events are planned for Cardrona Alpine Resort and Snow Park NZ and adaptive and able bodied cross country events will be held at the Snow Farm along with a new event, the Winter Triathlon.

Winter Games NZ is confident there will be strong support for the 2011 event, after the success of the inaugural games, which saw many of the international competitors go on to win medals at the Winter Olympics in Vancouver,

$4M EXPANSION PROJECT AT QUEENSTOWN AIRPORTA $4m expansion project at the Queenstown Airport is underway to increase the size of the baggage handling area to cope with the growing numbers of passengers using the airport.Queenstown Airport’s General Manager Commercial Simon Barr says the 1470sqm building will more than triple the size of the existing baggage carousel.“Known airline schedules indicate 60% growth in international passengers during the next year, together with a 10% increase in domestic. Our current facilities are designed to cope with passenger numbers of around 700,000 per year while we are expecting to reach almost one million passengers over the next 12 months.”He says that when the check-in hall at the airport was extended in 2009 to accommodate new airline services it was recognised that the baggage area would be the next to come under pressure.The new building and carousel is expected to be completed by early December to coincide with the introduction of international Jetstar services into Queenstown.

ADVENTURE TOURISM SAFETY REVIEWEDA national adventure tourism safety review launched following concerns about accidents in the industry has been welcomed by Destination Queenstown.Chairman Mark Quickfall says the

report prepared by the Department of Labour is pertinent to the region because Queenstown is the backbone of New Zealand’s adventure tourism industry.“Adventure tourism is a $3 billion industry in New Zealand and it is important that we do our utmost to get it right. We do have a high level of safety across the industry but there will always be areas for improvement. We welcome any guidelines which help keep New Zealand’s adventure tourism sector a world leader.”A feature of the review is the introduction of a compulsory registration scheme which will include safety audits.Queenstown adventure tourism operators have already produced their own checklist for operators following a forum with the Tourism Industry Association.

BLANKET BAY CHEF WINS NATIONAL TITLEA young Queenstown chef has been named 2010 New Zealand Chef of the Year after winning the title ahead of 12 other talented Kiwi chefs.Luxury Lodge Blanket Bay’s Chef de Partie Joseph Clarke won the award at the country’s premiere hospitality competition at the Restaurant Association New Zealand Culinary Fare. Joseph won one gold and three silver medals for his dishes and says he was overwhelmed to win the title in the face of talented competition. “It was a definite shock to receive the award. It was an emotional moment to accept the trophy as my two previous executive chefs, Jason Dell and Mark Sycamore, have held the title. I’m extremely proud to carry on the Blanket Bay tradition of winning the country’s top awards.”

1. Blanket Bay Chef De Partie Joseph Clarke 2. Queenstown Airport’s expansion project 3. Chairman Winter Games NZ Sir Eion Edgar

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7 NEWS

AMERICAN EXPRESS WINTER FESTIVAL IN THE LIMELIGHTThe American Express Queenstown Winter Festival is once again in the limelight as one of New Zealand’s most successful events – winning the ‘best marketing’ award at the NZ Association of Event Professionals Ticket Direct Event Industry Awards.Last year the festival won the ‘best established event’ category.Festival Director Simon Green, who has been reappointed to the role for 2011, says in spite of a small marketing budget to work with, he and the team headed by Marketing and PR Manager Mandy Kennedy, were able to use it “creatively and effectively thanks to the support of our major sponsors. Our media profile also increased 62% compared to last year.” Simon says the 2011 festival will build on this year’s event. “I’m keen to build on the success of this year’s festival, fine tune some of the events to make them bigger and better and work on some new ideas.”

WHAT’S COOKING AT OTAGO POLYTECHNICOtago Polyechnic’s new one-year Diploma in Professional Cookery is designed to inspire a new breed of young chefs in the Southern Lakes.The level five course will be launched in February 2011 and the qualification is recognised worldwide.Chef lecturer Roydon Cullimore says the course is for students who are serious about a career as a professional chef and the qualification will allow them to work in the industry at an intermediate level.“It’s the perfect follow-on to the

cookery programmes already offered at the Polytechnic which have been popular and very successful when it comes to launching students into their hospitality career. Armed with a level five qualification they have the opportunity to shine in some of New Zealand’s best kitchens, working alongside some of the country’s top chefs.”

FOCUS ON CENTRAL OTAGO GARDENSAward winning Central Otago photographer Ian Brodie and writer Jill Herron have combined their talents and their passion for gardens and Central Otago, to produce “In the Heart of My Garden.”The book presents original designs and planting ideas and Central Otago’s dramatically different seasons are highlighted, along with the unique challenges of gardening in this environment.The featured gardeners are inspirational personalities whose stories are tied in with the evolution of their gardens.Ian is best known for his bestselling “Lord of the Rings Location Guidebook” while Jill is the author of two history books based in Southland. They say “In the Heart of My Garden” is a celebration of gardening, gardeners and Central Otago’s wonderful scenery and lifestyle.

KUDOS FOR WANAKA ACTIONS SPORTS PHOTOGRAPHERWanaka photographer Camilla Stoddart whose action sports photographs are widely recog-nised has been named among the top 50 finalists in the Red Bull Illume photography awards –the only woman to make selection.

The finalists in the prestigious action sports photography competition were announced in Dublin in September. Fifty photographs were shown on two metre high light boxes in the historic Trinity College quadrant. Camilla, who was in Dublin for the awards, says it has always been a goal to enter the competition. ”It was such an incredible experience. There are not a lot of female photographers in action and adventure sports because it’s so physical. Being the only female finalist people were quite interested to hear what I had to say.”Camilla’s image was of a BASE jumper leaping off a cliff at the Rob Roy Glacier near Lake Wanaka and was selected in a category focusing on adventure sports set in spectacular locations.The 50 images will remain as an attraction at Trinity College before going on a world tour.

PROPERTY CONFIDENCEQueenstown’s Millbrook Resort has given the green light to a new $2.9m subdivision overlooking the recently completed Coronet Nine golf course.Property and Development Manager Ben O’Malley says the area known as the Mill Green will have nine sites with a starting price of around $650,000. He says the development is a reflection of Millbrook’s confidence in the property market – almost $11m of real estate was sold at the resort in the first eight months of 2010.The Mill Green development also involves the removal of dead or diseased willow trees around Mill Stream and planting is being carried out as part of the wetlands enhancement work already completed at the resort.

1. In the Heart of my Garden

2. Camilla Stoddart

3. Matt Davey, Ticket Direct International with the Queenstown Festival Team - Mandy Kennedy, Caroline Popple, Simon Green and Michael Pritchard

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“UNREAL” FLOWER DESIGNSBridget Mee and Sally Stone may not be trained florists but what they lack in qualifications they make up for in creativity and flair.That’s why Fab Flowers, their one-year-old silk flower hire venture, is proving to be so successful, meeting an increasing demand particularly from hotels and businesses in Queenstown. The flowers are sourced from China and have a striking resemblance to fresh flowers- but that’s where the similarity stops. “Obviously fresh flowers have their place but our clients like our arrangements because they have such an intensity of colour and they don’t wilt or die. They are cost effective, easy care and displays are changed every fortnight.” The pair endeavour to provide flowers that match the seasons and their rural warehouse is packed with a huge variety from traditional roses, lilies and hydrangeas to the more exotic orchids and birds of paradise. Bridget and Sally create stunning and original arrangements in a diverse range of vases – from large urns to glass vases, pewter and leather containers. “We get to know what our individual clients like and take the décor into account when we are creating a fresh arrangement. It’s also fun to challenge people to get outside their comfort zone and go with a quite different image.” Fab Flowers also supplies arrangements for private homes and offers a one-off hire service for functions, conferences and weddings. “We are excited about the business and feel we are now well established and providing a unique local service. The quality of our flowers is such that it is extremely difficult to pick the difference between ‘real and unreal.’” JM

PASSION FOR MOVEMENTWhat drives this passionate and energetic 47-year-old New Zealand trained early childhood teacher, UK maternity nurse/nanny, and former competitive gymnast and coach? It all boils down to Rae Paterson wanting to make a difference in her community, particularly for parents, children and babies. After returning to live in Wanaka in 2001, Rae established Mini Muscles and Aspiring Gym Sports and has become a parent herself. She also works as a presenter for New Zealand Gymnastics Play Gym courses and for the Footsteps-Poutama home based education programme, a national initiative providing education and support to caregivers, parents and babies, especially those in vulnerable circumstances. Based initially in Wanaka, Rae now travels with her Mini Muscles van and equipment to Queenstown, Cromwell and Alexandra sharing her knowledge of physical movement to around 200 families a week. “It’s about educating parents to understand the strong link between physical development and how movement helps to create neural pathways in the brain,” says Rae. “Natural development of babies, should happen freely and at the baby’s own pace.” Aspiring Gym Sports caters for around 80 Wanaka school kids, offering them recreational gymnastics, as well as providing a winter sports programme for snowboarders and skiers of all ages. It is now run by a committee of parents as an incorporated society while Mini Muscles is becoming a community trust. “This will ensure that the sharing of knowledge and passion about movement for all ages continues well into the future.” VM

UKELELE FANFAREQueenstown businessman, Jeff Hylton, has always had a secret desire to play in a rock band. So when local doctor, Geoff Shirley, suggested they form a garage band he jumped at the chance. Except it wasn’t a rock band he was invited to be part of but Queenstown’s first ever Ukulele Band. “I didn’t know anything about playing the ukulele but I’m a firm believer in the 10,000 hour rule, which is a bit like the old apprenticeship system, that if you practice something long enough eventually you can be pretty good at it. I could already play the drums and wanted to play guitar so it seemed fair enough to try the ukulele.”Lots of enthusiasm and plenty of practice have seen the band come a long way from its fledging start a year ago to being one of the headline acts at the 2010 Queenstown Winter Festival mardi gras. “ That was our biggest gig to date and one we really enjoyed. We’ve played at artist Tom Brown’s Gallery and have been asked to play for New Year next year so opportunities are coming up all the time.” The band’s membership fluctuates at around nine to ten members and there is always room for more. “It’s a word of mouth thing and people come and go but we have a diverse range of acoustic and musical talent including well known saxophone player Nigel Hurst as part of the group. We don’t play originals but there is always much debate over the cover song’s we do choose which is half the fun. The feedback we get about the band is brilliant.” MB

Sally Stone and Bridget Mee

Rae Paterson

Jeff Hylton

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LOCAL TALK 8

9 ARCHITECTURE

The highly original timber clad home beside Lake Wanaka was designed by Stevens Lawson Architects of Auckland and Home New Zealand editor Jeremy Hansen says the judges were excited to find “such an exceptional home in such an exceptional New Zealand landscape.”

“The remarkable terrain of Central Otago offers great opportunities for architects to design memorable buildings but many new homes in the area fail to take advantage of this. We think this home shows how modern homes can be respectful of the terrain and blend into the landscape without being bland.”

Architects Nicholas Stevens and Gary Lawson say they felt a responsibility to design a house that measured up to the quality of the site and was respectful of the natural environment. Their aim was to achieve the goals of the district plan “to have a recessive building in an interesting way.”

Much of their inspiration came from the surrounding tussock. The exterior walls and roof are clad in pale cedar which blends with the tussock. The interior has “a cave like quality” and features concrete walls, timber ceiling and schist floors.

Debbie Cavit of Cavit & Co contributed to the interior design providing elegant Italian leather furniture and rugs from Baxter, and contemporary furniture from American company Bolier, to compliment the strong lines of the house.

New York architect Charles Renfro who was a member of the judging panel was impressed with the angular geometric forms of the house, striking a perfect balance with the rugged mountains in the backdrop.

“A skilful architect knows how to work the site and view to maximum effect, doling it out over time. Only slowly does the interior of this house offer glimpses of the spectacular landscape between its exquisitely crafted walls.”

Auckland architect Ken Crosson, who together with Jeremy Hansen made up the panel, says the 500sqm house “is a unique and strong design in a unique and strong landscape. The unifying cedar cladding that covered the walls and the roof was a brilliant idea.”

The judges for the 2010 award were looking for the ‘wow’ factor, says Jeremy. “A home that shows new possibilities of what great architecture can be and we were certainly ‘wowed’ by the winning home.”

The Home New Zealand Home of the Year 2010 features on the cover of this issue of QT Magazine.

A contemporary Wanaka home is the first South Island property ever to win the prestigious Home New Zealand magazine’s Home of the Year award in its 15-year history. Penny Simpson takes a look.

Architects - Nicholas Stevens and Gary Lawson

PROFILE 10

One woman in New Zealand dies every 24 hours from one of four gynaecological cancers and Queenstown’s Rachel Brown is determined to promote an awareness of the symptoms. She spoke to Jenny McLeod.

Rachel and her sister Jackie Whiting lost their mother, Leonie Coates (57) to ovarian cancer over four years ago, and their pledge to her was to improve women’s awareness and understanding of the disease.

The result was the Silver Ribbon Foundation, currently rebranding as the New Zealand Gynaecological Cancer Foundation, which spearheaded the national Gynaecological Cancer Awareness month in September.

“The aim of the Foundation is to encourage women to learn more about themselves and be on the alert for symptoms of ovarian, cervical, uterine and vulva cancers,” says Rachel. “Early detection saves lives and if women can recognise the warning signs they can get medical help sooner. They also need to be aware that while a cervical smear can detect abnormal cervical cells, it cannot detect the other three cancers and there are no screening programmes available.”

“My mother was shocked when she discovered she had ovarian cancer, which is the deadliest of all the gynaecological cancers, and felt so much more needed to be done to let women know what to be alert for. This is what the Foundation is trying to achieve by raising awareness of the symptoms.”

The Silver Ribbon Foundation website is the key point of contact providing vital information about symptoms and just as importantly offering a forum to women who suffer from one of the four cancers.

“I believe we are making an impact and we are definitely meeting a need with the chat rooms which operate on the website,” says Rachel. “Women now feel they have something which they have ownership of and they can share so much through this medium.”

The Foundation is proactive in its promotion and Rachel says a current ovarian cancer story line on the TV2 series Shortland Street is proving to be an excellent vehicle for focusing awareness on the illness.

“Then we have ambassadors like national rowing representative Fiona Paterson who is originally from Central Otago. She is a cervical cancer survivor and her story is compelling. Her message is ‘don’t procrastinate. If you suspect something abnormal take action immediately.’ It is people like Fiona who are vital to helping us make a difference.”

Rachel has recently given up her role on the board of the Foundation but remains intensely passionate about the cause, particularly ovarian cancer.

“There are some important initiatives planned for the next five years, number one being to push for a national database for gynaecological cancers. The Ministry of Health needs to be lobbied on this issue, because without a database, it is difficult to compare outcomes in different parts of the country.”

Funding is also a key to ongoing promotion and the Foundation, which was established with a grant from Leonie Coates’ family trust, is continually looking for sponsorship and financial assistance.

“We need to keep driving this campaign to raise awareness of these illnesses, to get women to recognise what the gynaecological cancer symptoms are and save lives,” says Rachel.

For further information: www.silverribbon.co.nz

BEAT OVARIAN CANCERB is for Bloating (persistent)E is for Eating (difficulty eating and

feeling full more quickly)A is for Abdominal (frequent pelvic pain )T is for Talking (tell your GP)

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11 FASHION

There are no excuses not to look fabulous this season as summer rolls around. Christmas, New Year, weddings and special occasions are all catered for by fashion leaders Wallace and Gibbs and Ikon fashion stores in the main street of Arrowtown. New spring and summer collections are instore now.

SPRING AND SUMMER FASHION GALORE

IKON - hot picks1234

MAXI DRESSES…. floral, bright, long swinging styles, leather plaited details, drawstring waists and a sexy look for summer. Look for brands like the Doosh ‘Topaz’ or Firetraps ‘Linette’ Maxi.

CHIFFON FROCKS…..Ruby has a sweet line of pleated chiffon frocks and lacy shifts. We love the Rosie dress with its pleats and the empire puff sleeves.

VIBRANT BUTTERFLY TOPS…..from Doosh these tops rock over skinny jeans, gathered pants and denim skirts. Billowing drape at the top and softly gathered into a wide band at the waist they are very sexy

DIESEL SNEAKERS…..we chose the bright pink ones. Ikon stocks the very latest collection for men and women straight off the streets of New York and oh so stylish.

FEDORA HATS….made by Firetrap, stylish summery headwear for warding off the sun. “Rosie” is for girls and “Jim” for the boys.

GO DANCING…. wearing a sexy little number from Backstage. A new label to Ikon, this collection features little smock dresses, stripy tops and the black and white GLAM ROCK DRESS.

SCOTCH AND SODA….do a lovely line in pink and grey striped men shirts as do Bauhaus with Lavender, Chambray Denim and natty stripes for summer. Plus the cutest retro T-shirts from ZaneRobe for the man in your life. Natty Stripes and Checks for men.

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LOU’S TOP TIP: ITS GOOD TRY ON SOME OF THE NEW STYLES WITH OUR ACCESSORIES LIKE BELTS, SUNGLASSES AND SHOES. THERE’S MANY DIFFERENT WAYS TO STYLE THINGS THIS SEASON.

WALLACE & GIBBS - best styles

PAULA’S TOP TIP: THE DUSTER COAT IS A NEW SEASON ‘MUST HAVE’ FOR COOLER

SUMMER EVENINGS . MADE BY CHOCOLAT THEY ARE GORGEOUS, SOFT AND FEMININE.

WHITE ….is the new black with soft cotton and linen duster coats anddrawstring hooded parkas from VSSP. Also a good line of white denim to match up with this seasons other hot colour, blue.

ART+TEASE by Vamp….is a unique label made in New Zealand using original one off limited edition art and screen prints. No one garment print is the same in this wearable art work range.

POLKA DOTS…. are the height of fashion and who could resist these gor-geous blue dotty tops by Isakelle. Team up with the Isakelle range of leggings or choose the smart Tshirts in red and grey trimmed with dotty ribbons.

CHOCOLAT IS THE LABEL FOR CURVY LADIES…… incredibly figure flattering, the Vivaldi range of soft chiffon tunics and singlet dresses features bright splashes of brilliant hues.

CAROLINE MOORE ……her latest deep orange hued leather jacket is to die for. Team this with some of the marvellous separates from HSL and heads will turn.

PAULA RYAN SHOES….the fashion queen is now producing an excellent line of high fashion shoes. We love the stripy Wedge heels for summer.

COOL MENSWEAR…from Cutler including dress pants, summery shirts and jeans.

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EVENTS 12

The ASB Queenstown Jazzfest has been condensed into five days this year but organiser Simon Green told Jo Blick that the festival will be showcasing more bands and artists than ever before.

The nationally renowned ASB Queenstown Jazzfest runs from October 21-25 with over 30 bands performing in 20 different venues in the district.

“While we’ve cut the festival back lengthwise, there’s a lot more on the programme, it’s just been concentrated into a shorter time frame,” says Simon. “As a result this year’s festival should have

much more atmosphere and energy.”

But that doesn’t mean that the traditional programme has completely changed. Simon says the festival still has a strong commitment to the popular free gig programme.

“The Village Green stage will be going all out with guns blazing. In fact there’ll be 15 hours of free entertainment taking place on that stage alone. We’ll also have stages at Remarkables Park in Frankton, on Earnslaw Park and Buckingham Green in Arrowtown.”

Two highlights of the Village Green performances will be the finals concerts for the NZONE JUMPSTART Competition featuring the best Youth and Emerging Talent artists from around New Zealand.

The counterpart to the free gig programme is the Concert Series and Simon says festival goers will be excited when they discover what’s in store.

“The Memorial Hall is the hub of the concert programme and will be transformed into the ASB Jazz Club for all four days. On Friday (October 22) there are two separate concerts taking place. First up is a Peggy Lee Tribute Show starring acclaimed Kiwi

songstress Erna Ferryand, then pianist Bill Cunliffe and saxophonist Bob Shepherd from the USA perform along with the Rodger Fox Big Band.”

“On Saturday (October 23) it’s a change of pace with a Jazz ‘n’ Beats styled event starring Wellington’s Batucada Sound Machine and Christchurch’s Humlai. On Sunday (October 24) the venue is transformed again, this time into a 1940s style swing club. Kiri Winders and her 1940s jazz swing band will play and we’re expecting everyone to wear pinstripes, zoot suits, feathers and frocks.”

The festival has also secured the talents of Brazilian Marku Ribas for a one-off concert at Millbrook. Now in his 60s, Ribas is widely regarded as one of the masters of Brazilian music, his music mixing Caribbean and jazz influences with Brazilian rhythms.

Simon’s other top tip for this year’s festival is the three dinner series events. They include the “Songbirds” concerts, featuring three female vocalists at threesixty, the “Piano Men” series at Les Alpes and “Jazz meets the Blues” at Wild Thyme.

“The programme this year is really exciting,“ he says. “We’ve got a great range of styles and in terms of calibre we’ve got top acts from Brazil, the US and Australia, some great established and up and coming NZ jazz and blues artists and the pick of local and regional artists who will also showcase their talents.”

ALL THAT JAZZ!

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• Great range of magazines, books & stationary • International phone cards

• Copy and fax services• Gifts, novelties and toys • Lotto

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OPEN DAILY 8.30am-7pm Mon-Sat, 9am-6pm Sun.

13 ARROWTOWN

Arrowtown in spring takes on a fresh new image, with it vibrant gardens and blossoming tree lined streets. But above all spring is a time to take to the trails as Margo Berryman discovered.Walking the local tracks is hugely popular during the change of season and visitors are encouraged to follow in the footsteps of the early goldmining settlers who pioneered tracks around the Arrow goldfields and beyond. The Lakes District Museum is the place to go for information and walking trail maps and gold pans are available from here. It’s surprising just how much gold is still discovered in the Arrow River and spring is a good time to try your luck.

ARROWTOWN WALKSArrowtown Chinese Settlement: This easy walk can take 30 to 40 minutes at a leisurely pace from the centre of Arrowtown. There are remnants and markings of the 20 rock and sod huts built by Chinese settlers in 1869 to ward off the bitterly cold winters. There are fascinating stories of the inhabitants such as Wong Hop Lee and Ah Sip who planted market gardens nearby and owned several stores providing everything from rice to Chinese tea. The Chinese Village was partially restored by the Department of Conservation in 2003.

Arrow River Trail: This walk takes approximately 50

minutes return and follows the attractive and historic trail towards the Macetown Road. Starting off from the centre of Arrowtown at Butlers Green it heads towards the Arrow River and tracks left up and over the Arrow Irrigation Pipeline. This is a relaxing walk wandering high above the Arrow River providing great views, picturesque waterfalls. In spring and summer

the trail is sprinkled with old fashioned rosehips and wildflowers planted by early settlers. The track reaches the Norman Smith footbridge and retraces back to Arrowtown.

Tobin’s Track: This is an uphill walk that is not too steep and provides spectacular views of Arrowtown and the surrounding Wakatipu Basin. Starting off from the Arrowtown River Track at Ford Street, it’s approximately a 2.2km climb to the Crown Terrace. This was part of the miner’s route from Wanaka or Cromwell to Arrowtown as early as 1863. Allow 60 minutes return.

Sawpit Gully: A favourite locals’ walk, Sawpit Gully runs across private land and dogs and bikes are not permitted. The easiest way to start the loop track is along the river track that heads towards Macetown. The track branches off above the Arrow Irrigation Scheme pipeline and climbs steeply before entering Sawpit Gully. Pockets of beech forest, tussock and piles of gold mining tailings are encountered on the way. Once over the saddle the track winds back down towards the Chinese Village. Allow three hours return.

Bike friendly trails in ArrowtownBig Hill Trail, Arrowtown Millennium Walk, Macetown 4wd Road (challenging, but definitely bikeable), Lake Hayes Walkway, Tobin’s Track, Manse Road Walkway

Check track details www.arrowtown.com/walking-tracks.html

ON THE TRAIL IN ARROWTOWN

arrowtown.com

pure goldpure goldpure gold discoverarrowtown

rediscover your spring in arrowtownBreathe new life into your holiday and immerse yourself in an historic town that really is pure gold. Home of the Lakes

District Museum, Arrowtown is just 20 minutes from Queenstown with buses departing hourly. There’s always something new

to discover, from a stroll along the river or a hike in hills rich with history, to vibrant retail stores brimming with new season’s

product and delicious meals crafted from the freshest produce. Arrowtown is the perfect place to stay and play this spring.

eat drink stay play

ARROWTOWN 14

A tiny schist cottage beside St Patrick’s Church in Arrowtown may seem unremarkable, but it was for a time “home” to a very remarkable woman, who will shortly be canonised as Australia’s first saint. Angela Verry reports.

Blessed Mary McKillop arrived in Arrowtown from Australia in 1897, as head of the Sisters of the St Joseph of the Sacred Heart, to set up a school and convent in the little cottage. Such was her contribution to the order throughout Australia and New Zealand, she is to be by canonised by Pope John Paul II in Rome in October, and known as St Mary of the Cross.

The religious community and school in Arrowtown lasted until 1943. But with the decrease in the town’s population there was no longer a demand, and the old cottage became a garage and storeroom until the local parish restored the building, as well as St Patrick’s Church in 1993, at the time of Mary McKillop’s beatification.

Mary was born in Melbourne in 1842, the eldest of eight children. Her father was an unsuccessful businessman and, although his children were all well educated, the experience shaped Mary’s future. Her family relied on her to provide for them because of her father’s failings and she initially worked as a clerk at the age of 14, later becoming a governess in South Australia Here she took in children from impoverished families as well as teaching her charges. She shared

concerns with the local priest Father Woods about the lack of Catholic education and the need for the poor to be provided for, which inspired the formation of the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart. Mary was the first sister and Mother Superior in 1867.

The Jospehites calling was to go wherever help was required, especially where children and education were concerned. Blessed Mary and her increasing number of sisters established numerous Catholic schools throughout Australia and New Zealand including the Arrowtown school. Following her beliefs was not always easy for Mary and she was briefly excommunicated for five months, but had her faith restored following a visit to Rome to receive approval for her work. She continued guiding the order until her death in 1909, even after being partially paralysed by a stroke seven years earlier.

Lakes District Museum Director David Clarke predicts Mary McKillop’s cottage and St Patrick’s Church will become an important tourism attraction once she is canonised on October 17 2010.

“Since the restoration of the cottage and the church accompanying her beatification, there has been a significant increase in people, mainly Australians, seeking directions and looking for information about Mary. I would expect the cottage has the potential to become a must-see destination for those who are interested in her life. There are tours in Australia taking visitors to sites where she worked and I wouldn’t be surprised to see that occurring in Arrowtown as well.”

A local service to commemorate Mary McKillop’s canonisation is planned at St Patrick’s Church on November 6 and 7 – a fitting tribute for a woman who has a special place in Arrowtown’s history.

BLESSED MEMORIES FOR ARROWTOWNCOTTAGE

The unusual but appropriately named store, Ogle, in Arrowtown’s Royal Oak complex is sparking plenty of interest with its eclectic mix of gifts. Angela Verry went shopping.The new store is the brainchild of Rosemary Duggan, who had previously operated a shop in Southland and was eager to return to retail after a six-year break.

“It was just a matter of finding the right retail position,” she says.

The ideal space became available in the Royal Oak complex earlier this year and Rosemary jumped at the opportunity.

“My daughter came up with the name. As soon as she said it I knew it was perfect. I like the fun interpretation of the word and it’s short and punchy.”

Ogle has a large variety of items for sale catering for both locals and visitors to Arrowtown. For out-of-town customers, New Zealand and overseas freight can be easily organised.

“Initially I had planned to stock the store with gifts for men, but then I saw the opportunity to diversify, and ensure the shop was changing on a regular basis, so I brought the focus on to women as well.”

The store has the perfect gifts for the ‘hard-to-buy-

for’ man, as well as an assorted selection of well known brands. Fossil watches, bags and wallets, Karlsson flip clocks, home decor and interior design pieces and other items that capture Rosemary’s well-trained eye.

Rosemary is committed to stocking the shop with well designed products made from high quality materials.

To ensure that the interior of the shop is always evolving, furniture pieces are for sale including the new industrial vintage line.

Ogle has developed an online website to tempt potential customers. And word is spreading fast.

“I had an Australian customer with an Ogle business card his friend had passed on from an earlier visit. We’ve only been open four months!”

Rosemary is enjoying the experience of owning and operating a store again.

“It’s nice to do something for myself. I just love meeting people and you meet amazing people with interesting stories.”

Her family have also helped provide a smooth transition for her. “My immediate family have all supported me in some way. Even my grandson does a few hours in the store for me.”

And the best part about returning to retail? “There is nothing more satisfying than someone leaving your store with a large smile on their face.”

15 ARROWTOWN

eclectic arrowtown shopping

ARTISTS 16

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)

INTERNATIONAL REPUTATION FOR QUEENSTOWN ARTISTQueenstown artist Angus Watson 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. His varied collection features 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 make a bold use of colour and my work tends towards impressionist.” Angus is highly sought after for commissions and holds exhibitions around New Zealand. In Queenstown he has an annual exhibition every January at his rural studio close to Queenstown which is always well attended. “Having my own exhibition gives people a chance to visit my studio and see where my work is created. Clients are always keen to know what inspires specific paintings. Angus also sells a selection of appealing prints and cards and he is keen to welcome art lovers to his gallery all year round. No appointment necessary. www.anguswatson.com

PROMINENT IMPRESSIONIST PAINTER IN THE WAKATIPURecreating nature’s grandeur on canvas is a labour of love for Wakatipu based artist Paul Cato. He is fascinated by the expansive landscapes, which he cleverly replicates in his stunning original oil works and fine art limited edition reproduction prints, and sells around the world. Working from his rural home based studio between Queenstown and Arrowtown, Paul is sought after for commissions and while he enjoys working for his many international clients, his passion is being amongst the giant landscapes of Fiordland and Mt Cook National Parks. Painting the Fiordland wilderness since his teens Paul says “my work is increasingly becoming larger in scale, and while I have a real affinity with the local area I’m currently working on a 30sqft canvas of the French Alps, near Chamonix. I really enjoy being immersed in a painting of this size or bigger.” Inspired by great American painters such as Thomas Moran, Frederic Church and the Hudson River Group Paul employs similar artistic devices to portray light, mood and atmosphere in his work. Paul also enjoys painting figures with an ocean backdrop, his dreamy Australian beach scenes providing enchanting and feminine appeal. Paul Cato welcomes people to his gallery – it is signposted and easy to find on Malaghans Road on the back road from Queenstown to Arrowtown. Appointments advised but not necessary.

CRAFTY MARKET GATHERINGThe Queenstown Art and Craft market comes alive on Saturday mornings in Queenstown Bay’s Earnslaw Park. The weekly market has over 30 exhibitors who travel specifically to the area to show-case their goods amongst the beautiful waterfront scenery. For visitors the market is a treasure trove of gift items reflecting the artistic flair and creativity of New Zealand artists. Futhermore it is an excellent place to discover unique Kiwi products to take home as a souvenir. For locals it is a chance to catch up with friends, enjoy the live music and pick up unusual and distinctive items. Market Co-ordinator Jasmine Clarke says it’s a great social day out with an interesting bunch of people. “Some of the artists travel from as far as Dunedin and Geraldine every weekend and that’s what helps to cre-ate the diversity. It’s probably one of the best markets in the country for direct representation from the artists themselves and a special opportunity for people to discover more about their products.“ Sculpture, woodturning, glassware and photography sit alongside beautifully made hand knitted hats, beanies and clothing, pottery, painting and wool spinning. The work of metalwork and copper work artists are a popular feature and greenstone and bone carvers display their jewellery and hand carving skills. The Queenstown Art and Craft Market. Open 9am – 4pm every Saturday.

17 ARTISTS

AWARD WINNING ARTISTS Winning the ‘best local artist’ award at the Arrowtown Autumn Festival art show was a successful start to the year for Lake Hayes artist, Ben Ho whose entry was awarded the top prize.Ben and his wife Mary Mai have recently opened an art gallery on Alec Robins Road near Lake Hayes showcasing their individ-ual talents. The couple immigrated to New Zealand in the late 1980s after meeting at art school in China. Both are award-winning artists whose work hangs in many private collections in Asia, Australia, America, United Kingdom as well as New Zealand.Ben has been exhibiting widely New Zealand since 1991.“My inspiration comes from many different subjects and I enjoy painting landscapes, still life and figures in an impressionistic style.”His first exhibition was at 12 years of age and he has won numerous prestigious art awards including the Otago Regional Art Award, the K G Frazer Award, NZ Herald Award and a gold medal at the Royal Easter Show. He is also a frequent judge for nationwide art competitions.Mary Mai was encouraged to further her career when she received a scholarship for formal art training while at secondary school. Like her husband, she has won the profes-sional category at the Royal Easter Show and her work has a high profile in New Zealand.Their gallery is open every day and visitors are welcome to call in and view their work.

GLENORCHY ARTIST IN RESIDENCEA longstanding love affair with the magnificent alpine views surrounding Glenorchy has inspired New Zealand landscape artist, John Crump to live in the town permanently.He fell in love with the Head of Lake Wakatipu in 1978 when he and his wife spent an unscheduled holiday at Paradise, after being unable to shift their motor home in icy winter conditions. After six weeks of solid painting John could not get the place out of his system.“It ate away at me and eventually after spending many years coming here on painting safaris we decided to make it our home.”John and Kay lived in an old scheelite miner’s cottage, on land they bought in the area, while build-ing a contemporary home and gallery where John displays and sells his work.“It’s a brilliant location, which allows me plenty of time to head outdoors to paint. I also tutor groups of people who come for week-long courses here in the district. We have groups of up to ten people travelling down here learning how to paint outdoors which is both challenging and fun.”Inspired by the works of leading New Zealand painters such as Peter McIntyre and Douglas Badcock John began painting in the late 1960s and he has developed a following for his impressionist landscape paintings. Formerly from Wellington, John looks back on his varied background as teacher, graphic designer and builder as stepping-stones to his new life in Glenorchy. People are encouraged to visit his gallery located on the main road into Glenorchy – it might pay to telephone ahead because he may just have gone painting!

SPECIALIST JEWELLERY LOCALLY MADERay Wade has dedicated the past 23 years to creat-ing distinctive jewellery some of which is unique to New Zealand and in particular to the Southern Lakes region.Working with natural stones and crystals he takes pieces from their raw, natural state to design indi-vidual and alluring items.“ My personal style of design has been self taught and I focus on individually crafting the stones, shells or rocks from their natural presentation into one off design pieces by marrying them with metal, usually gold or silver.”“I try to leave the raw material in its most natural state which provides a more organic feel than what you get with a mass produced piece of jewellery. People really appreciate something that they have not seen anywhere else and they make lovely gifts for visitors returning home.”Ray has a high profile in the art world and he often travels overseas for inspiration and on rock gather-ing missions. His vast collection includes mother of pearl, paua, agate, lapis, lazuli and amethyst which he creates into one off pieces of jewellery. His love of collecting stones started with gathering greenstone in Greymouth as a young boy and later he was involved polishing stones in Christchurch.Ray uses assorted 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 as an artist in his own right but he also does some commission work on request.His Arrowtown gallery is surrounded by a delightful cottage garden and is an easy walk from the main street in Arrowtown. Visitors can watch him work in his studio and view a selection of his own wood cut prints and etchings on the wall.

OUTDOORS 18

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, rainforests 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. Excursions begin with a crossing of Lake Manapouri and the alpine road over Wilmot Pass. Upon reaching Doubtful Sound there are three options:

Wilderness CruisesThree hours of exploring this serene and isolated fiord on board a modern catamaran.

Small Boat CruisesExtended leisurely cruises of the spectacular inner fiord on board a heritage ketch.

Overnight CruisesThe opportunity to cruise even further amongst the wilderness. Upon anchoring passengers join the nature guide and go kayaking or exploring by small boat. They 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.

Walter Peak High Country Farm

19 OUTDOORS

New trails are being opened up all over the Southern Lakes in response to the growing demand from people wanting to explore the region on bike or on foot.Queenstown tourist operator Real Journeys is launching an exciting new venture in November,

when for the first time, cyclists can ride the tussock clad back country of Walter Peak high country farm.

The guided trips follow the Back Road route through the Von Valley and around the Mavora Lakes with spectacular views of Mount Earnslaw and Lake Wakatipu.

The trip will appeal to individuals or groups who are fit enough to enjoy the 15-35km route options. The trip begins in Queenstown with an excursion to Walter Peak on the TSS Earnslaw from where cyclists are transported to Mavora Lakes to start the ride.

There are plenty of rest stops along the way at places such as a traditional musterer’s hut, Pretty Hut, and the Old Nic which is a heritage stone building where a picnic lunch is served.

Real Journeys General Manager, Tony McQuilkin says although the trips are off the beaten track the tracks are extremely suitable for cycling.

“It is great country and we are very excited to be able to offer people a chance to get out there and explore an area which few people ever really get to enjoy.”

For independent cyclists Real Journeys is offering cycle transport on the TSS Earnslaw to allow people to take their own bikes across to Walter Peak. A map of the area and snack voucher is included along with flexible return times to Queenstown.

CYCLING THE WALTER PEAK BACKCOUNTRY

Final year 2010 Wakatipu High School students will celebrate the end of their secondary school life with a unique ‘rite of passage’ bungy jump at AJ Hackett’s Kawarau Bridge site.

Every year the company invites Year 13 students to participate in the free event to mark the end of their school days in Queenstown.

AJ Hackett Bungy CEO Michelle Trapski says it’s an opportunity to share the bungy experience with local students who have grown up in Queenstown and have lived alongside the adventure tourism industry.

“It’s a brilliant way to help them shake off the confines of school life before they head off to university or other careers. It allows them to take some knowledge of the bungy experience with them as they take up lives outside of the resort. It’s also a lot of fun for the students and all our bungy crew. More than 100 students have jumped over the past three years and they love it.”

RITE OF PASSAGE WITH AJ HACKETT BUNGY

ACTIVITIES 20

www.southerndiscoveries.co.nz30 Shotover St, Queenstown. Lakefront Drive, Te Anau.

With centuries in the making and decades spent uncovering, Milford Sound is an awe-inspiring quest, which everyone experiences differently.

Whatever the mood or preference, we at Southern Discoveries provide cruise packages for individual tastes and take great pleasure in discovering this breathtaking region all over again with you.

• CruisetherealMilfordSoundfromjust$63• Choiceofmodern,spaciousboats• Expansiveviewingandphotoopportunities• PopularEncountersmallboatnaturecruise• TraveloptionsfromQueenstown&TeAnau

Delivering you the entire Milford Sound.

Encounter and discover

ADD THE NEW

MILFORD

DISCOVERY

CENTRETO YOUR CRUISE

New Zealand’s only fl oating underwater observatory, Milford Deep, has re-opened with a new image as The Milford Sound Discovery Centre after undergoinga $350,000 refurbishment and structural redevelopment. Jane Brooke reports.

Milford Deep underwater observatory was launched 14 years ago in the Piopiotahi (Milford Sound) Marine Reserve and provides a spectacular insight, ten metres below the surface, into marine life in its local habitat.

The new Milford Sound Discovery Centre is an integral part of the Southern Discoveries expansive tourist venture in Milford Sound.

General Manager John Robson says the investment in the Centre’s refurbishment project is designed to create a signifi cant “wow” factor for visitors and provide an enhanced educational and interactive experience.

Almost 30 striking information panels have

been installed in the Centre which are an impressive interpretation of the natural history, geology, fi ord formation and environment of Milford Sound. The history of the region, from the Maori explorers to the hardy pioneers who built the Milford Road and the Homer Tunnel, is also in the spotlight.

“The new look centre creates a more interactive environment for visitors, whatever their age, and provides an opportunity to delve into the history, geology and environment of Pioiotahi,” says John.“It is the only place in New Zealand where visitors can learn about the glacial formations, the unique marine life environmental initiatives, Maori legends and early European settlers.” The Milford Discovery Centre incorporates a spacious viewing chamber, ten metres underwater, and has 360 degree views of the marine ecosystem which opens up a unique world of primeval creatures and exotic habitats.

“One of the features is a rare species of Black Coral usually only found at depths of 500 metres or more,” says John. “The 300-year-old coral ‘trees’ are absolutely unique and one of the highlights of a visit to the Centre.” Southern Discoveries also operates a fl eet of three catamarans and the Encounter Cruise- an ‘ecotour’ providing an up close look at seals, birds and other wildlife, including dolphins ‘riding’ the bow wave and the rare Fiordland crested penguin.

FREsH IMAGE FOR MILFORd sOuNd uNdERWAtER OBsERVAtORY

21 OUTDOORS

Southern Discoveries is passionate about preserving Milford Sound for future generations and is a key partner in the Sinbad Sanctuary Project.

The project is a major joint conservation project between Southern Discoveries, the Fiordland Conservation Trust and the Department of Conservation and the aim is for Sinbad Gully at the base of the renowned Mitre Peak in Milford Sound to become a sanctuary for native species.

Southern Discoveries General Manager John Robson says Sinbad Gully was home in the 1970s to the last known New Zealand kakapo living on the mainland. Since then Sinbad and Mahogany skinks and the

Cascade gecko which are all new species have been discovered there, along with rock wren, kea, weka and large weta.

“We are making a substantial annual donation to support the Sinbad Gully Pest Control Project which is spearheading a pest control programme to allow the threatened species in the area to increase in number.

Our support and volunteer work is also protecting native species like the whio (Blue Duck) and encouraging the return of bellbirds, tui and kiwi.”

Over 70 pest traps have been set in the valley as part of the overall project since it was launched in mid 2009 and since that time a number of rats, mice and stoats have been trapped.

“During the last inspection of traps two rats were caught in the upper part of the valley but there were no stoats,” says John.

“On the previous inspection in June there were no stoats either which could indicate they had left for the winter.”

Southern Discoveries is profiling the Sinbad Sanctuary project through its different ventures in the Milford area including its cruise boats, The Milford Sound Discovery Centre and the Blue Duck Café.

“This sponsorship is a long-tem commitment and we are really excited to support such a worthwhile project in this beautiful area of New Zealand.

A new safe site is being created where threatened species may be introduced in the future,” says John.

“The Sinbad Gully undertaking has all the makings of a unique conservation project.”

PRESERVING MILFORD SOUND’S HERITAGE

Below: Sinbad Gully Skink

WANAKA 22

As a 13-year-old Wanaka’s Beccy Dixon became the face of the Cure Kids charity stealing hearts with her poignant story of living with the incurable lung disease cystic fibrosis. Today Beccy is 24 and has recently undergone a double lung transplant which, as she told Jenny McLeod, has been life changing.

Beccy’s bubbly personality and determination, in spite of her illness, have won her friends all over the country through her role as Cure Kids ambassador.

The charity raises money for research into children’s life threatening illnesses, and Beccy played a pivotal role in lifting its national profile, after its launch at the 50K of Coronet international ski event in Queenstown in 2000.

Growing up in Wanaka Beccy followed her passions for horse riding and cross country skiing and had a reputation for giving anything a go. But the traumatic effects of cystic fibrosis always lurked in the background.

In her 20s after graduating from an acting school in Auckland she moved to Australia’s Gold Coast and

shortly after met her fiancé Darren Longham.

But her health continued to deteriorate and by early this year Beccy was spending more and more time in hospital “I was at the point of going into Prince Charles Hospital in Brisbane for two weeks then coming home for two weeks. When I was at home all I could do was sit on the couch and watch TV. It became so distressing but there was nothing I could do about it.”

Then came the breakthrough. “I had been on the transplant list but wasn’t expecting anything to happen in a hurry. After I had been on it for just 16 weeks the doctors, out of the blue, told me there were lungs available.”

Beccy’s immediate reaction – “whatever, are you serious?” But they were definitely serious and from that moment it was all a bit of a blur.

“It happened so quickly and after eight hours the operation was over. I responded really well and my recovery was the fastest the doctors have seen at Prince Charles for many years. I was up walking a day after the operation and although I had one setback with a toxic reaction to a drug, which put me back into intensive care, but it was soon sorted.”

Beccy can now breathe without struggling, laugh without coughing, sleep easily and run and ride a bike.

“It’s incredible. I didn’t know I could feel so good. I

don’t have to undergo treatment for the first time in my life. Now I have my independence back and I can get on with life. Things are pretty much perfect for me now. It’s quite unreal.”

As the 200th transplant recipient at Prince Charles Hospital Beccy was called on to make a speech at the celebration to mark the occasion. “Everyone at the hospital was so excited about the success of the operation. They are incredible people.”

With her new found health Beccy is now contemplating her future which will include acting in one form or another. “I want to start up my own little acting school on the Gold Coast, that’s my dream.”

New life for Cure Kids ambassador

Beccy Dixon and TV Presenter Jude Dobson during Dunlop Targa Rally 2003

Beccy Dixon and fiance Darren Longham 2010

23 WANAKA

Wanaka architect Anne Salmond has spent two years developing a “Lego” style high performance housing concept which combines leading architectural design with an affordable price. Viv Milsom checks it out.

The high performance housing concept, dev-eloped by Salmond Architecture, centres round linked pavilions or modules.

“We looked at designs that worked well, and solutions we were repeating often and from this developed our concept of linked pavilions or modules,” says Anne. “It’s like building a house out

of Lego and further pavilions can be added later, or taken away as a family’s need for space changes.”

The pavilions are rectangular forms which can be stacked on top of each other, or linked on one or more levels. Both the roof line and cladding can also be varied.

“We’ve built one house using stone and cedar which is more expensive, but other options such as cedar vertical boarding, board and batten, ply and batten or corrugated iron can keep building costs down to around $1,600 - $1,800 per square metre. Each house can be designed for its individual site, taking into account sun orientation, views, slope, and the need for shelter and privacy.”

High performance houses are also designed to be as energy and cost efficient as possible, using structural insulated panels as an integral part of the design. Imported from Germany the panels are made from sustainable timber and urethane foam.

Wanaka builder, Scott Pickett, whose high

performance house, is the first house in New Zealand to use this construction, says the panels are impressive. “Because they’re structural, they do away with the need for any framing, steel or trusses, so we can go from slab to enclosed in less than a week. This means about a 30% saving in labour costs, which on an average three-bedroom home would usually be between $60 -70,000.”

The panels are used for both walls and ceilings. “They’re a far superior product,” says Scott. “There’s no thermal break, and they have an insulation factor which is well above building code standards as well as a minimum 60-year life.”

The Queenstown Lake District Council is the first local authority to permit the use of this construction system.

Anne has over 12 high performance houses around the country in the design stage, including five in the Queenstown Lakes area.

One house has already been completed in Wanaka and another is under construction in Riverside Park.

“We’re still fine-tuning the concept, but already there’s been a really good response.”

Her own family home in Dublin Bay close to Wanaka is “a two-story stone box which I designed using the same basic dimensions across as a high performance house has.”

After training and working as an architect in Wellington Anne and her husband John Beattie, along with their three children moved to Wanaka ten years ago where she established Salmond Architecture. While she mainly designs residential houses, she’s also worked on commercial projects. “One of the lovely things about living in a small town is that you get to do a bit of everything.”

In the future Anne would like to work with developers to design a series of high performance houses for new subdivisions, which could all be distinctively different. She also likes the idea of developing smaller homes for older people, with bigger shared living spaces.

“One of the real strengths of the high performance houses concept is its flexibility.”

HIGH PERFORMANCE LIVING

An

ne

Sal

mo

nd

CROMWELL 24

“Sustainability” is the current buzz word as people become increasingly concerned about the demands placed on finite resources. While some developers pay lip service, Arrowstone’s McNulty Central complex in Cromwell reflects the commitment of the companies involved, to creating a landmark sustainable development as Jo Blick discovered.Grant Black Business Development Manager Apollo Projects, the construction company selected to design and build the McNulty Central development in the Cromwell Industrial area, says the key points about sustainability and green are “fact versus fantasy and doing rather than talking.”

“Ask any company in the construction industry about this topic and they’ll say ‘yes, we’re right into this’ but if you ask them what they’ve done, it’s generally along the lines of attending seminars or belonging to the NZ Green Building Council.

With our approach to project delivery, we are able to influence and drive a true contribution to whatever the end goal may be – carbon neutrality, a Green Star rating or just following sustainability principles.”

Grant says Apollo Projects has built a solid reputation in the industry by concentrating on its core markets and remaining focused on three key areas - controlled environment installations (e.g. wineries and cool stores) industrial and bulk retail buildings and sustainable buildings incorporating green building, sustainable design and carbon footprint reduction.

He says Apollo’s commitment to the sustainable viewpoint has been fuelled by its association with Kingspan Insulated Panels and from there it’s grown into a very important part of their business.

The McNulty Central brief called for superior energy efficiency combined with modern architectural styling. With this in mind Apollo Projects selected Kingspan wall and roofing cladding for both its thermal characteristics and visual appeal.

Kingspan’s cladding products have excellent insulation properties which allow buildings to stay warm in winter and cool in summer, he says, and this characteristic means they are particularly suited to Central Otago’s extreme conditions.

A large double glazed window frontage at McNulty Central provides natural heat from the available winter sunlight while in summer, the windows are shaded by a large canopy, which together with the insulated Kingspan cladding, keeps the showroom areas cool.

The use of Kingspan products is no accident. Eight years ago Apollo realised there was a need for an

alternative to polystyrene panelling and set out to find the best new product in the world. They found it in Kingspan, says Grant.

The Kingspan name is a byword for innovation and is recognised worldwide for being at the cutting edge of insulated panel technology.

Paul Metcalfe General Manager/Director of Kingspan Insulated Panels NZ says all their panels have extremely high insulation levels, close to twice that of traditional polystyrene panels.

They are also fire safe and insurer approved which is an important consideration in minimising insurance risk in industrial buildings. Another bonus of the Kingspan Panel system is that there is less air leakage from the building, ensuring consistent building temperatures and lower energy costs.

Paul says the company realised many years ago that sustainability was going to be the way forward, and Kingspan is now a leading source of research and development and practical applications, for a variety of well known sustainable construction products.

FOCUSING ON SUSTAINABILITY

Redpaths Cromwell Manager Derek Lines had never given much thought to sustainable buildings -that was until his company moved into new premises at McNulty Central in Cromwell’s industrial area and experienced the benefits firsthand.

“Once you’ve been exposed to this type of building and the working environment it provides, you’d never go back! Our energy costs are half what they used to be and it’s a much more comfortable place to work.”

Redpaths previous premises were reasonably comfortable, but heating was an issue. It was the need for more space that prompted a move to McNulty Central, but it has been the unforeseen benefits of the building, that have really got staff and customers talking, he says.

“It is a comfortable and pleasant environment. People who walk in off the street comment on how warm it is.”

There is also no need for high cost electrical heating appliances at McNulty Central.

Although he has yet to experience a summer there, Derek anticipates the building design will ensure the premises stay cool during the hottest months of the year.

He says if Redpaths needs to expand again the McNulty Central building has provided the benchmark.

“This complex has really given us an appreciation of how buildings should be.”

REdPAtHs RECOGNIsEs REsuLts

Kingspan panel wall

Vacuum Tube Solar panels on Apollo’s Yealands Project

McNulty Centre, Cromwell

25 CROMWELL

Apollo Projects’ expertise in the sustainable design and construction of winery buildings is well recognised in New Zealand’s wine producing regions including Central Otago. But Apollo’s reputation in this area has also caught the attention of overseas wine makers looking for new and innovative solutions.

When Canadian winemakers from Tantalus Vineyards wanted the “best the world had to offer” they selected Apollo to deliver its new winery in British Columbia. The success of that project has led to Apollo being engaged on another Canadian winery project which is to be commissioned for the 2011 vintage.

Amisfield Wine Company’s Lowburn production facility built by Apollo in 2006 is an excellent local example of how Apollo has used high-tech building products to enhance the wine making operation.

The building has three tiered levels, taking advantage of gravity to distribute grapes and wine through the various stages of the winemaking process.

Kingspan insulated panel products on the roof and walls help maintain a constant temperature in the winery. The hygienic, easy clean properties of Kingspan also makes it an ideal choice for the internal surfaces in the winery.

Grant Black, Business Development Manager at Apollo Projects, believes hygiene and temperature stability, two key environmental factors for wine makers, is where Apollo’s design expertise together with a thorough knowledge of the industry’s unique requirements, come into play.

“Kingspan products are perfectly suited to the humid, acidic environment typically generated by the winemaking process,” says Grant.

As one of New Zealand’s most experienced temperature controlled construction businesses

Apollo has contributed to the developing winery industry for more than ten years. “We believe that our innovative approach has helped shape the evolution of winery design and construction in New Zealand to a level that is absolutely world leading” says Grant.

It is this specialist focus and willingness to challenge the status quo that drives Apollo Projects reputation in the industry.

Contact Apollo Projects on ph 03 358 9185 info@apolloprojects.co.nz www.apolloprojects.co.nz.

WORLD LEADING WINERIES

“Kingspan products are perfectly suited to the humid, acidic environment typically generated by the winemaking process,”Grant Black Apollo Projects

Yealands Winery

CROMWELL 26

Cromwell’s Golden Gate Lodge, with its standout location at the town’s entrance, is integrally linked to the wider community through extensive sponsorship and support for sporting and leisure activities. Margo Berryman has the story.

From weddings and birthday functions, to a biennial Rail Jam and local rugby club nights, almost everyone in Cromwell has a link with the town’s largest hotel complex.

Golden Gate Lodge General Manager, Glen Christiansen believes it is the people of the town that keep the hotel at the forefront.

“The whole team here love living and working in Cromwell and we are extremely lucky that the hotel directors also share this passion for the town. We host a lot of events at the hotel and sponsor everything from the Cromwell Rugby Club where we are major sponsors, through to local hockey and netball teams and the Ladie’s Leisure Marching Team.”

Built in 1988 the Golden Gate Lodge has a full service restaurant, bar, café, bottle store and accommodation. Glen says they can cater for up to 150 people onsite and out cater for up to 450 – “nothing is too small or too big for the hotel.”

“Our delivery of a relaxed, casual atmosphere and setting suits this region and while the hotel is listed as a 3.5 star hotel I believe we deliver 5 star service. Nothing is a problem here and we like to cater for every kind of guest.”

“Weddings and conferences are steady business and the wedding season is busy. People enjoy the ability to host all their wedding guests under one roof for both the reception and the accommodation.”

The hotel’s central location is a bonus, with local wineries such as the award winning Wooing Tree tasting room within walking distance and the Cromwell Golf Course on the doorstep.

“Our guests love the fact that you can walk out of your room and right on to the golf course. The Lake Dunstan boat ramp is just down the road which is good for boaties and families wanting to enjoy the lake. We have massive amounts of parking which makes the hotel very popular with car clubs and people towing a boat on holiday.”

Glen has managed the Golden Gate Lodge for the past five years and is an avid supporter of outdoor activities in the district recently taking up long distance running himself.

“We get behind and help create a lot of the events here like the recent Rustic Run at the Goldfields Centre and we are also involved in the new Northburn 100 event that will take place at Northburn Station in March next year. I couldn’t think of a better place to live, work and bring up a family. Cromwell has so many unique qualities and it’s a great historic place to come and explore.”

GAtEWAY tO CROMWELL

27 CROMWELL

Nichol’s Lifestyle Centre in Central Otago has set a new benchmark in landscaping and garden services and is expanding further to include an animal store and pet services. Jenny McLeod visited the Cromwell based venture which also includes a garden café and florist.

Nichol’s has had a high profile in Southland for the past 145 years and is well established in both Invercargill and Dunedin. Two years ago the company focused on opening premises in Central Otago.

“We already had a strong client base in Central and it was a logical move for us,” says Nichol’s General

Manager Rhys Gibbs. “The site at the entrance to Cromwell, at the junction of the highways, is a key location and we have been able to develop into a significant ‘one stop shop’ providing a whole range of services for clients from Alexandra, Cromwell, Queenstown and Wanaka and even further afield.”

Nichol’s landscaping design and construction service is an important and growing part of the business as more “lifestylers” move into the region.

“Many are young professionals who are ‘time poor’ but appreciate good landscaping and attractive environments. They are purchasing larger lifestyle properties and are calling on the expert services we can provide. We are seeing a definite shift from the ‘do it yourself’ to the ‘do it for me’ market. We can provide the landscaping design and consultation and follow it up with construction and plant placement.”

Nichol’s also offers a landscape direct service which targets the larger lifestyle blocks.

“This service offers bulk buying which carries with it a good price and is particularly good for shrubs and big trees for shelter belts , that sort of thing,” says Rhys.

Other landscaping products – such as compost, bark and sleepers - can be purchased in bulk from the centre and a free one-hour trailer service is available.

The in-store florist is an integral part of the business providing both a local and nationwide floral delivery service. New to the centre is the pet store which Rhys says enhances the existing facilities.

“Providing animal services adds to the lifestyle mix. We are continually looking at new initiatives to meet the requirements of our Central Otago clients. The response underlines for us that we are meeting exactly what the market is looking for.”

LIFEstYLE LANdsCAPING

NICHOL’S GARDEN CAFÉ

Alan and Louise McHattie are no strangers to the café business and their café in the Nichol’s Lifestyle Centre reflects the high quality they have earned a reputation for in the region. The couple established Ritual in Wanaka and Good Oil and the Mega Mitre Ten café in Dunedin and the same excellent standards are being achieved with their Cromwell venture. The café is a destination in its own right. Locals are an important part of the clientele and it is a popular half way point for people travelling to and from

Queenstown, Cromwell and Wanaka as well as Christchurch and Dunedin. Open everyday for breakfast from 8.30am the café serves an impressive range of freshly prepared food and excellent Emporio coffee. Louise’s Wellington based family own Emporio and Alan is the local representative supplying freshly roasted beans, barista training and servicing for cafes. There is plenty of accessible parking at the Centre and the café’s outside courtyard overlooking the Wooing Tree and Alan Scott vineyards is a superb setting.

EVENTS 28

EVENTS OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2010

OCTOBER 2NDSpring Carnival The festival has something for everyone, fun for the whole family. Venue: The Remarkable Ski FieldContact: Guest ServicesPhone: 03 450 1970

OCTOBER 9THThe Frontrunner SeriesWalk and Run series around the beautiful Jack’s Point tracks. Casual entries welcome.Venue: Jack’s PointContact: Adrian BaileyEmail: adrian@activeqt.co.nz www.activeqt.co.nz

OCTOBER 8TH – 11TH

Rugby Leagues 9’s Tournament9’s Rugby League Tournament.Grass Roots League at its best with national and international teams.Venue: Queenstown Recreation GroundsContact: 03 442 0058www.queenstown7sand9s.co.nz

OCTOBER 15 – 16TH

Le SudA rollicking political satire that warmly pokes fun at three cultures, two islands and one country. Venue: Memorial Hall, QueenstownContact: Lindsey SchofieldPhone: 03 443 4172

OCTOBER 17TH - 21ST Riverrun Trail SeriesThe Riverrun Trail Series offers spectacular scenery and exciting trails winding their way alongside the region’s most stunning waterways.Venue: WanakaContact: info@evenz.co.nz

OCTOBER 20TH – 24TH

Willowridge WanakfestWanaka’s annual spring festivalVenue: WanakaContact: Laurel MorrisonPhone: 03 443 2273

OCTOBER 21 – 25THASB Queenstown Jazzfest Venue: Queenstown Contact: Simon Green Phone: 021 183 4640www.queenstownjazzfest.co.nz

OCTOBER 24TH

Cromwell Half MarathonHalf marathon plus 10km run or walkVenue: Cromwell Sports ClubContact: www.cromwell.org.nz

NOVEMBER 6THThe Frontrunner SeriesWalk and Run series around the beautiful Jack’s Point tracks – casual entries welcomeVenue: Jack’s Point Contact: Adrian BaileyEmail: adrian@activeqt.co.nz www.activeqt.co.nz NOVEMBER 12THGlittering Peaks – An evening with Peter HillaryPeter Hillary talks about his family and his recent Everest climb. Venue: Remarkable’s Primary School Hall Contact: Ann Mackay Email: rpa@remarkablesprimary.school.nz

NOVEMBER 27THBannockburn GutbusterSouthlands Adventure Pub to Pub Bike RaceVenue: Garston Pub Startline; 9am, Finishline: Bannockburn Pub Contact: www.cromwell.org.nz

NOVEMBER 30TH

The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain The orchestra was a complete sell-out hit at their first New Zealand appearance at the 2008 NZ International Arts Festival in Wellington.Venue: Queenstown Events Centre Contact: 03 450 9005 DECEMBER 30TH

3 Multisport ChallengeA five stage multisport event for teams and individuals replacing the M2M.Venue: Glendu Bay MotorcampContact: www.point3.co.nz

CAFE 30

cafe directory‘ with Jo Blick

LEFT BANk CAFÉBACkGROuND? The home of scholars, artists and philosophers, Paris’s Left Bank has always been the artistic and cultural centre of that great city and our newest café takes un soupcon of that famous Rive Gauche bohemianism and beauty and brings it to Queenstown

SO IT’S A TOuCH OF PARIS THEN? More than just a touch. Situated in the Sofitel Hotel, the attention to detail in this Parisian style tearoom is incredible. It took three weeks to hand lay the French floor tiling, authentic 30s, 40s and 50s French prints adorn the walls and the staff are all French, with that amazing Gallic way of speaking that makes “may I refill your water glass” sound like love poetry.

AND THE FOOD? Divine without being over the top price wise. The menu offers a huge range of options for breakfast and lunch including special waffle and crepe menus which are available all day. There are simple choices like baguettes and paninis or you can order something from the a la carte menu. The French Onion soup is delicious as is the open omelette. In a hurry? There are pastries and coffee to go.

WHAT’S THIS ExPRESS LuNCH mENu? Oh what a treat. Your choice of a three or four course menu. Aimed at groups of friends or business people, all the courses are served in one sitting and with a 45 minute turn around, you’ll be back at your desk with time to spare. Why not accompany it with a glass of something from Left Bank’s wine list or a cup of authentically, strong French coffee.

ANyTHING ELSE? This café is far too gorgeous for guests of the Sofitel to keep to themselves! Pop in for breakfast, brunch or lunch between 6am and 4pm. Open 7 days.

31 CAFE

BONjOuR CAFÉOu ÉS LE CAFÉ? Bonjour Café is tucked away in Ramshaw Lane, overlooking the Arrow River. Spring weather can be changeable but on fine days, dining outside in the courtyard is a fabulous option, particularly as there’s outdoor heating.

WHAT’S ON THE mENu? Bonjour offers simple, traditional French fare presented with oodles of French charm. Red checked table cloths and pots of colourful flowers contribute to the European atmosphere. Try their original French cheese fondue or the Tarte Flambée. A speciality of Strasbourg, this pizza like creation comes in either sweet or savoury varieties. Also new on the menu, French cheese rolls, made with puff pastry – quite unlike their rolled bread New Zealand counterparts. Bonjour is also fully licensed with a good list of French wines.

ANyTHING ELSE IN STORE? Yes, plenty! Bonjour Café stocks a large selection of French jams, terrines and cookies. They have freshly baked baguettes, European style breads and homemade cakes on sale daily as well as a wonderful selection of pastries including pain au chocolat. Check out their selection of French cheeses and if that’s not enough “Francais” for you, they now stock books about France and other French souvenirs.

DETAILS S’IL VOuS PLAIT? Bonjour is open for breakfast and lunch 7 days a week from 8.30am and for dinner on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Dinner bookings are strongly recommended. Berets and stripey t-shirts are optional.

PROVISIONSWHERE? We love the fact that Provisions has taken up residence in one of Arrowtown’s historic miner’s cottages. Saved by the local authority from demolition by developers we’re happy that we can now all get to experience a slice of newly renovated local history at the same time enjoying a jolly good coffee and something delicious to eat.

THAT NAmE SOuNDS FAmILIAR? Provisions the café is the brainchild of Jane Shaw and Pauline Murphy, the same team behind the successful range of Provisions gourmet jams, jellies and chutneys. The cafe uses many of the products and the range is sold here. Provisions is also a bakery, selling fresh bread baked on site every day.

SO WHAT’S ON OFFER? It’s honest simple food, featuring new style twists on old recipes. Delicious traditional faves like Cornish pasties, cheese rolls, gingerbread and the obscenely good (and obscenely popular) sticky buns! Australian Masterchef judge Matt Day also pronounced their food ‘excellent’ so it’s not just us! If a sticky bun from the cabinet isn’t your thing, check out the menu. Provisions has many options to suit everyone from the peckish to the completely famished. There’s a kids’ menu too.

DRINkS? OF COuRSE! Good, hot coffee, Benger Gold juices and by summer, they’ll be licensed so you can enjoy a beer or wine on the verandah overlooking the garden

WHEN IS IT OPEN? 9am-5pm and from daylight saving they’ll be open later on Thursday, Friday and Saturdays.

VuDu CAFÉ & LARDER

SmART mOVE Vudu Café & Larder is an exciting creative achievement from the Vudu team expanding their award winning ‘home away from home’ café style across two locations.

juST AROuND THE CORNER from the original Vudu, the new café is centrally located in Rees Street opposite the Bank of New Zealand and has the enviable position of both street and lakeside entrances. Sit outside and enjoy lake views on sunny days or enjoy the buzz inside this seriously cool café ..with its collection of small and large wooden tables, beautiful old leather benches and side bar tables to choose from.

ORGANIC AND FRESH A little herb garden soaks up the sun on the mezzanine floor above the main dining area that also houses the baker’s kitchen where delicious fresh breads, cakes and biscuits are created for both the café and larder. Downstairs organic coffee is served from the metallic green, custom painted, La Mazola espresso machine. Try the fruit and vegetable juices, smoothies and organic loose-leaf teas. There is also an express service if you’re on the run.

SERIOuSLy GOOD This is not just great food…it’s food that is seriously good for you. The daily menu is mouth watering and the cabinets offer a delicious selection of sandwiches, veggie pies, lasagnes and an assortment of hot nourishing savoury morsels. There’s freshly made raw salads, rice and vegetarian dishes and plenty of vegan and gluten free options.

HERE TO STAy …this is our ‘home away from home.’ If you’re a visitor get a fix here and if you’re a local…. lucky!

WINE 32

Both the larger Central Otago wine region and the Gibbston sub region near Queenstown are developing strategic

plans, in which one of the stated objectives is an increased emphasis and a more sophisticated approach to wine tourism. Wine expert Alan Brady says it’s a branch of tourism which has grown dramatically over the past 20 years as wine with food has become an integral part of daily life, for many people.

But it’s not so many years ago that some winemakers were reluctant to be seen as part of tourism. They grew grapes, made wine and sold a bit at the cellar

door. They were passionate about it and they’d talk about the attributes and subtleties of their products to anyone who wanted to listen – or as long as they thought you might buy a bottle or two.

However as far as they were concerned, tourists were people who travelled around the country in buses or campervans, rode in jet boats, jumped off bridges, cluttered up our walking tracks and generally made Kiwis feel like foreigners in towns like Queenstown and Wanaka. Worse still they crowded into tasting rooms, guzzling free samples and complaining if you charged for tastings. And the final straw – they bought very little wine.

How things have changed. Winegrowers have woken up to the fact that rightly or wrongly, they tend to be perceived as having almost mystical skills. They produce something that’s steeped in history and romance and people go to wineries to seek answers, to sit at the feet of these wise ones and to learn. Then when they return to their distant homelands, they can carry back their wine like trophies and tell stories about the eccentric winemakers they have met, who

carve out a miserable existence making sensational wines in some hidden corner of a little country in the southern Pacific.

Well, maybe that’s a slightly romantic exaggeration. But there’s no question that more and more wineries are being designed with visitors in mind as they recognise how much added value a winery experience and cellar door sales can bring to the bottom line.

And significantly, more visitors with a special interest in wine are travelling to regions specifically to discover wineries for themselves.

As winemakers we have a special responsibility to care for those visitors as much as we care for our land and the wines it produces. Ours is an industry based on hospitality and the people who make the effort to come to our doors should be greeted warmly.

It should be a real experience for them, one that leaves them feeling they have tasted not just the unique character of the region, but also the sincerity and passion of the people who grew the grapes and crafted the wines.

WINERY TOURISM – ENSURING THE EXPERIENCE

CUTTING EDGE TECHNOLOGY Central Otago’s Drumsara Wines is leading the way in the New Zealand wine industry by adopting the cutting edge QR Code technology to help profile its wines. Jenny McLeod investigates.

The QR Code or Quick Response technology involves applying two-dimensional bar codes to wine labels that can be captured on a mobile phone linking directly to the winery’s website.

“All people need to do is download the free QR Code application and they are in business,” says Drumsara Marketing Manager Wayne Matheson. “The code itself looks like a black and white squiggly pattern, but once people log on to it with their iphones or other smart phone brands, they are immediately connected in to a whole range of information about Drumsara wines.”

The Drumsara Wines QR Code accesses tasting notes for a particular wine and vintage, a grape locator map identifying the exact location where grapes for a wine and vintage are grown as well as the vineyard information for that wine and vintage.

“It’s quite revolutionary really and what it means is that wine buffs can be in a retail store, read our codes and immediately source all the information they want before deciding to buy,” says Wayne. “Similarly in a restaurant people drinking our wine can download the tasting notes and enhance their dining experience.”

Drumsara Wines is the first New Zealand winemaker to adopt the technology for both its New Zealand and international markets.

“It’s such a simple way of getting out your message and further profiling your product. Already we are receiving positive feedback from our clients who say the technology brings wines to life and allows them to ‘talk’ to consumers.”

ALAN BRADY

33 TASTE

Diners at Queenstown’s Fishbone Bar and Grill are benefiting from new recipes and techniques inspired by Rick Stein’s famous Padstow seafood restaurant. Jo Blick sampled the menu.

Fishbone Bar and Grill owners Darren Lovell and Mark Godden are always looking for new ways to improve their popular seafood eatery, even if it means a long haul flight to the UK to learn some tricks from the masters. Darren recently took off to Padstow in England to work in Rick Stein’s kitchen at The Seafood Restaurant where he learnt some excellent ways of preparing and presenting seafood.

“We are currently serving a beautiful monk fish curry that is inspired by a similar curry Rick has on his menu, and there are a few new tricks and techniques that have made their way into our kitchen.”

It is this dedication from Darren and Mark that has made Fishbone Bar & Grill a Queenstown institution and foodie destination. Fishbone is Queenstown’s only dedicated seafood restaurant and serves a huge selection of New Zealand seafood, from clams, oysters and mussels to Blue Cod, flounder, salmon and crayfish. It’s the very best and freshest seafood. With Darren in the kitchen and Mark front of house,

they want to ensure that every diner leaves with the memory of a great meal.

“We’re big believers in seasonality,” says Mark, “The menu changes daily according to what’s available. We also take great pride in the fact that 99% of our seafood is sourced from the South Island, most of it from the lower half, so Fishbone is a great place to try regional cuisine.”

He’s not just talking about the seafood. The pair have turned their backyard into a vegetable garden, dubbed “Fishbone Farm,” with the produce appearing on the menu daily throughout the growing season.

Darren grows hard to source things like frisee and heritage tomatoes which are unavailable via suppliers. “I like to grow things that you can’t get anywhere else,” he says.” It makes us unique.”

So too does the seawater tank at the rear of the restaurant containing live clams, oysters and crayfish underlining the freshness of the seafood.

“Oysters are kept alive in our tank and shucked to order,” says Mark. “The clams , which come from Blueskin Bay near Dunedin, are taken live from the tank too. It’s great to see them becoming more popular as people are definitely becoming more worldly about what they’re prepared to eat.”

There are plenty of other options, for people who don’t want to push the boundaries, including good old fashioned Fish and Chips and non-seafood choices like a shoulder of lamb braised for 12 hours or free-range chicken.

Wine is Mark’s passion and it shows in his snappy wine list showcasing local and New Zealand wines with an interesting selection of international reds and whites, including Spanish sherry. “Fishbone offers the best New Zealand seafood and wine in modern, casual setting. And it’s a fun place to dine.”

RICK STEIN’S INFLUENCE AT FISHBONE BAR & GRILL

TASTE 34

One of Queenstown’s newest drinking and dining spots, Searle Lane & Social, has been launched by young friends who grew up in the resort and have been looking for an opportunity to become part of the local hospitality scene. Jane Brooke talks to the owners of Cook Brothers Bars.

Cook Brothers Bars cut its teeth on the ionic Dunedin student pub, the Captain Cook tavern when its four owners, James Arnott, Ben and David Bulling and Richard McLeod were in their early 20s. They followed with the Alibi bar and restaurant and two Velvet Burger gourmet burger bars, also in Dunedin.

But Queenstown had always been on the radar. While the Bulling brothers, both with engineering qualifi cations set up Cook Brothers Construction, James and Richard spent more than a year searching for the ideal site for their proposed Queenstown bar and restaurant.

“When the site came up in a new commercial building in the Searle Lane hospitality precinct we were pretty keen to get it. Searle Lane is developing into a great eating drinking and party area and we felt sure it would work for us.”

“We are excited about being back in Queenstown where we went to Wakatipu High School and spent a fair bit of time on the ski fi elds. Having been brought up in the town we want to build a place that really becomes part of the fabric of the town.”

Searle Lane & Social opened its doors during the Queenstown Winter Festival in June, after the fi t out was completed by Cook Brothers Construction.

James and Richard’s ski racing background made it the obvious venue for ski related events particularly the weekly Winter Classic business house racing prize giving. Coronet Peak Head of Race and Events Richard Murphy is upbeat about the association between the mountain and Cook Brothers Bars.

“With the Winter Classic being one of the oldest running local ski race series in New Zealand it is very fi tting to have Searle Lane and Social as the headquarters, with two local ex-national ski racers at the helm.”

The philosophy behind Searle Lane & Social has been “to create a place of casual, quality sociability.”

“We are a casual bar and restaurant, with a Kiwi style sharing-based menu. The layout is designed to encourage sociability and a relaxed atmosphere which underlines what Queenstown is all about. We are aiming at both a local and tourist market and believe we have the mix right.”

The shared menu concept has been designed and implemented by Cook Brothers Bars Executive Chef Scott Jerkovich.

“The idea is that people can share a snack or a meal which is a relaxed and fun way to eat,” he says. “And the good thing is that the more you share the cheaper the meal becomes.”

Searle Lane & Social has a varied menu including seafood and steaks but the signature dish is the rotisserie chicken, marinated for 72 hours, and providing several choices such as Portuguese Lemon, Peking or Charcoal BBQ chicken.

Scott says a popular dessert is the chocolate fondue and another great sharing option. “People love it because it’s a really fun dish, slightly retro and reminiscent of the 1970s.”

Searle Lane & Social is making its mark, refl ecting the enthusiasm James and Richard have for becoming part of the ever growing Queenstown hospitality scene.

“We love what we do and we love being back catching up with old friends, enjoying a drink or two and soaking up the Queenstown atmosphere.”

sEARLE LANE & sOCIAL - “CAsuAL sOCIABILItY”

Coronet Peak Head of Race and Events Richard Murphy with Searle Lane & Social owners Richard McLeod and James Arnott

Photo Rich Bayley

35 TASTE

Bella Cucina has cooked up an enviable reputation, since opening two years ago, for its wood-fired oven pizzas and exceptional pasta reflecting an authentic taste of Italy as James Beech found out.

To enter the intimate Brecon Street restaurant is to step away from the busy streets of Queenstown into an inviting rustic Italian ‘’beautiful kitchen’’ or “bella cucina.”The décor is quintessentially Italian featuring candle-lit wooden tables, candelabras, wooden and tiled flooring and framed vintage posters. Copper pans hang on the kitchen walls, herbs dry above the oven and the conversations of diners hum.The 40-seat casual dining spot subscribes to the philosophy ‘’eat simple – eat well’’ and more than 100 diners each night enjoy affordable cuisine from a daily changing menu. It is the only restaurant in Queenstown with a wood fired pizza oven which is a real drawcard.Pizza Chef Michal Pernica, from the Czech Republic, enjoys the theatre of preparing each pizza in his open kitchen, from dough balls to serving piping hot pizzas from the oven in just seven minutes, to the delight of onlookers.Executive Chef and co-owner Martin James, originally of Christchurch, trained in the New Zealand Army and perfected his culinary skills running upmarket restaurants in the United Kingdom.Martin and his wife Megan James joined Alex Boyes

and Jan Rae to operate Wai Restaurant on the Steamer Wharf in 2003 and two years later the group opened Finz Seafood & Grill next door, followed by Bella Cucina in 2008 and the Queenstown Post Office Café late last year.Martin and his team meet every morning to create the day’s menu at Bella Cucina.‘’Our local clientele regularly comes back because they know they will always get the quality and something different each time,’’ Martin says.‘’We source fresh greens from the Wakatipu, meats from Christchurch, Parma ham from Parma, big wheels of Parmesan cheese from Grana Padano and Gorgonzola and Tallegio cheese from Valsassina.”When QT Magazine visited Bella Cucina the diverse menu featured wood-fired oven pizza with salami,

anchovy, capers, caramelised onion and chilli, Rigatoni pasta, with lamb, pumpkin, cannellini beans, silverbeet, thyme and tallegio and braised leg of cornfed chicken, fettuccine, mushroom, leeks and olives.Not to mention the Sicilian apple cake with mascarpone, the Italian cheese selections and the standout selection of Italian, New Zealand and Australian wines.‘’People often ask what’s my favourite dish but to pick out one would be to say it is more splendid than the others and after all you always eat to your mood,” says Martin. “But if I had to name a favourite Bella Cucina dish it would be mushroom risotto and truffles, washed down with a nice glass of Central Otago pinot noir.’’ Buon appetito!

BUON APPETITO