Marjorie Cook

Tim Tucker knows Robinson helicopters like the back of his hand.

Organisers of this year's Warbirds Over Wanaka International Airshow have declared it a "resounding success", despite a slightly smaller crowd of about 65,000.

Promising sport climber Finn Fairbairn (15) of Wanaka is glad he did not give up on his sport 18 months ago.

Public submissions are being sought on the proposed transfer of ownership of the Jackson Bay wharf, along with some other assets of the Westland District Council, to a commercial company.

Contact Energy's review of its Clutha River land bank has sparked calls for the electricity generator to be a "responsible corporate citizen" and repatriate land ethically, while securing critical public access easements.

Newly appointed Snow Farm manager Jo Lynch (36) is no stranger to Wanaka's ski industry, coming into her position with more than 14 years' snow sports instructing experience.

World-ranked snowboarder Carl Murphy (33), of Lake Hawea, has a Paralympic gold medal in his sights.

Game On Everyone, a new recreation club for Upper Clutha people with intellectual disabilities, hopes to improve links between sports clubs and families so members can have more opportunities for achievement and competition.

Retiring Cardrona Alpine Resort employee Kay Curtis (66) admits she is "one of the originals".

A Christchurch couple are unhappy after they received a freedom camping infringement notice while their van was parked outside a Wanaka backpackers where they were sleeping.

A big crowd, perfect weather and an appearance by All Blacks captain Richie McCaw thrilled organisers of yesterday's practice day for the Warbirds Over Wanaka International Airshow, setting the scene for a huge weekend.

A Wanaka holiday-maker's decades-long private study of parasites that cause a seasonal swimmer's itch has entered a new and exciting phase and Dr Norman Davis now wants up to 30 frozen duck heads to dissect.

Puzzle-maker David Strang (70) never knew that a gift he made for his grandson 11 years ago would turn into an almost all-consuming passion.