Notes, See New Zealand

Broken River is gearing up for another busy off-season, with a series of summer work parties planned to keep the club field in top shape before winter returns.

Upcoming dates include:

• 28 February – 1 March
• 14–15 March
• 3–6 April (Easter)
• 25–27 April (ANZAC)
• 16–17 May
• 6–7 June
• 27–28 June

From maintenance projects to infrastructure upgrades, these weekends are all about preparing the mountain for the season ahead.

If you’re keen to lend a hand, register by emailing wppersonnel@brokenriver.co.nz. Please register by the Tuesday before your chosen work party date.

Mt Olympus Ski Area has added an extra work party weekend on April 18–19 as preparations ramp up ahead of the 2026 winter season.

Key upgrades this year include a full refurbishment of the Bottom Hut - one of the most extensive upgrades the building has seen - with bunk reconfiguration, painting, window repairs and a new fire installation. The hand tow is also being extended by 30 metres to improve access and flow on the lower mountain.

Further work is underway at the Top Hut, where staff quarters and pantry/freezer areas are being reconfigured. Infrastructure improvements continue across the field, including trenching for new power cabling to strengthen long-term reliability.

Mt Olympus relies heavily on volunteer support, with members contributing time on the tools to complete upgrades ahead of winter. Work party days also provide credits that can be applied to membership.

Those interested in joining the April work party see there instagram.

AJ Hackett Bungy New Zealand has officially launched the Kawarau Swing, the South Island’s first three-person adventure swing, at its iconic Kawarau Bridge site in Queenstown.

Suspended 43 metres above the Kawarau River, the new swing gives visitors the choice of a solo, tandem or triple ride, making it a versatile and family-friendly alternative to the classic bungy jump. Designed for those who want an adrenaline rush without the full commitment of a bungy, the swing arcs smoothly across the gorge before winching riders back to the launch deck.

The experience is open to anyone 8 years and older (with guardian consent for under-15s). Solo riders must weigh between 30–150 kg, while tandem and triple groups have a combined maximum weight of 200 kg.

Located at the original “World Home of Bungy,” the Kawarau Swing adds another chapter to AJ Hackett’s long-standing legacy of adventure innovation in Queenstown. It also broadens the appeal of the Kawarau Bungy Centre, offering an option for families, couples, and anyone wanting a thrill built around fun rather than fear.

Wild Kiwi Tours, the Kiwi-founded operator was recognised for its authentic small-group adventures, strong sustainability values, and commitment to showcasing Aotearoa’s people and landscapes. The company credited its guides, local partners, and travellers for helping make the win possible. Visit Wild Kiwi Tours website.

Congratulations to Wildwire Wanaka for being recognised with a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award, placing it among the top 10% of activities worldwide. The award highlights the experiences guests value most, based on consistent positive reviews. Well done. View Wildwire website

The Auckland Arts festival 2026. In a historic collaboration of Eastern and Western traditions, China’s prestigious Shanghai Symphony Orchestra brings two premium classical concerts to the Festival as part of its landmark Australasian-Southeast Asian tour. Performing twice at Auckland Town Hall. Click here for tickets