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Geography Queenstown Trip 2016
 

Geographers Take On Queenstown

M Skinner —

The Year 13 Geographers had a great practical experience at the end of Term 3 during their annual field trip to Queenstown.

It was a busy three days for all concerned. Day one saw an enjoyable bus ride down to Queenstown, where we got to see a picture perfect Central Otago on route (cue 6th Mr Howell selfie/Snapchat for the day) and listen to Bob the bus-driver’s enlightening commentary from Glaciers to Cars to Salmon. This year we stayed near the CBD at the mighty Pinewood Lodge, we all ventured into the CBD for our orientation. Some ventured to the world famous Fergburger, where one look at the queue was enough for some lads.

The next day saw an early start so that we could make the most of skiing and boarding on Coronet Peak. However, due to heavy rain during the night and mild temperatures, the field was closed for the day. This meant a quick text from Mr Skinner to swap the days activities around – but at least it allowed for another hours sleep! We then spent the morning sightseeing, luging and also the gondola.

After the fun, work was calling. We were kindly hosted by the Queenstown Resort College (QRC) who spoke to us about what they offered as far as tertiary education was concerned. Then Catherine Fallon, Chief Executive of the Queenstown Chamber of Commerce, spoke to us about the effects of Tourism and the annual Winter Festival. Then we had presentations by the Queenstown Lakes District Council where Louise, the Planner and Resource Consents Manager took us through the planning and decision making process for the annual Winter Festival. And lastly, Senior Constable Sean Drader, NZ Police’s Queenstown Field Intelligence Officer spoke to us about some of the social costs of the Winter Festival.

Later that night we were required to write up our findings. With some students still working hard until the 10.00pm deadline.

The next day saw another early start to make the most of the snow at Coronet Peak, before we had to head home to Christchurch. Skiing started with a quick lesson and then they unleashed us on the mountain. Mr Howell managed home base whilst Mr Skinner ventured out with the students onto the slopes.