Community Guides will return to the streets of Queenstown and Wanaka this week, just in time for the busy summer season.

Regulatory Manager Lee Webster said the approach was slightly different from the previous community guide initiatives, focusing more on education and awareness of the rules on alcohol , litter, fires and freedom camping. 

The guides will be wearing ‘community guide’ branded high vis vests and will be walking the waterfronts in Wanaka and Queenstown, talking to people and helping raise awareness.

“We see this approach as much more proactive.  We want people to have a good time and enjoy the beach and everything our district has to offer, but we want them to be aware and respect our rules.”

“They’re great guys, so when you see them around, have a chat.  They’re there to help,” Mr Webster said.

The guides will work from 7pm-10pm from now until boxing day, and 6pm-10pm from then until January 5.

All year round an alcohol ban applies in downtown Queenstown, Arrowtown and Wanaka, along with Frankton Beach and Lake Hawea after 10pm.  This is extended to a 24hour ban between December 27 and January 5.