Oamaru businesses are faring better than expected post-Covid, and some even better than last year, as New Zealanders explore further off the beaten track in their own country.
A survey, conducted by the Waitaki District Council economic development team, in collaboration with the Waitaki Tourism Association, was completed by 50 operators in the travel and tourism industry across the district, association chairwoman Jan Kennedy said.
The pandemic heavily impacted many businesses in the district in the past year, especially accommodation and transport providers, wildlife attractions, and travel companies. But many were in a better position than they thought they would be, and the majority had continued operating, although some with reduced hours and fewer staff.
The Waitaki Lakes camping season comes to a close this Sunday.
The Waitaki District Council’s six camping sites battled through major flooding events, no international tourists, and restricted numbers at some sites during the 2020/21 season.
Season tickets for Falstone Creek, Sailors Cutting and Boat Harbour had sold out by November, and casual camping was not allowed at those grounds from December 20 to January 10. It made things “a wee bit slow” through the Christmas period, with fewer visitors, Mr Fox said.
“While it appeared busy at some spots . . . on the whole, I think it was not as busy as what it normally was because people were restricted,” he said.
“What we’re seeing is that a lot of locals are getting behind it. The section has had such good reviews they want to experience it, Miller said. “The fact that you are getting off the state highway and seeing a part of country not seen from your own vehicle has a special appeal.
JOHN BISSET/Stuff
Taking time out on the trail recently are, from left, Lisa Tutty, Jaxon Tutty, 10, and John and Marie Bisset. “The scenery through there is spectacular with islands you wouldn’t know existed.” The track passed Turnagain and Junction Islands. Miller said people also enjoyed the track because it was challenging and interesting in parts with twists and turns. Most of the track is graded 2 (easy) with 5.5km grade 3.
Everything you need to know about Twizel, Mackenzie
6 Mar, 2021 06:00 PM
4 minutes to read
Jason Menard and his family at Loch Cameron, Twizel, Mackenzie. Photo / Jack Austin
NZ Herald
By: Jason Menard
Twizel wasn t built to last, but it ended up becoming one of New Zealand s absolute winners! Twizel was built in the late 1960s as a temporary town to house the workers on the hydroelectric scheme and was meant to be demolished in the early 1980s. The residents fought a lengthy legal battle with the government and the town was eventually handed over to the Mackenzie District Council. Back in the day you could buy a Twizel house for a ridiculously low sum of money, sometimes as cheap as a few thousand. There are stories of people trading Twizel sections during poker games!
Major funding for Sheemore and Rossinver walk and cycle trails
Over €329,000 announced
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Leitrim County Council has today secured funding from the Department of Rural and Community Development under round 2 of the Outdoor Recreational Infrastructure Scheme.
Two applications to develop amenities at Rossinver and Leitrim Village were successful in securing funding when the scheme was announced by Minister Heather Humphries earlier today.
The Outdoor Recreational Infrastructure Scheme provides funding for the development, promotion and maintenance of outdoor amenities such as trails, walkways, cycleways, and blueways.
In announcing the funding today Minister Heather Humphreys said: “The value we place on our outdoor amenities, and the contribution which they make to our physical and mental wellbeing, has never been more appreciated than during the current COVID-19 pandemic.