Lake Wanaka voted home to South Island's most iconic rugby fields

Lake Wanaka’s rugby fields have been voted the most iconic in the South Island in a photo competition organised by Christchurch International Airport.

The winning photograph, by Upper Clutha Rugby Club secretary, Kate Dowling, shows the fields’ spectacular setting against the lake and snow-capped mountains of Mt Aspiring National Park.

Lake Wanaka Tourism general manager, James Helmore, said the photo not only celebrated the way of life in Wanaka but also the outstanding scenery the region is famous for.

“Kate’s image truly captures the rugby season in Wanaka and the spectacular winter landscape,” he said. “With thousands of rugby fans heading our way next year, we hope many will enjoy some of these grassroots settings so they can get an insight into why New Zealand is such a strong rugby nation – and those settings don’t get more memorable than Wanaka’s Upper Clutha Rugby fields!”

Ms Dowling said she was thrilled with the win. “The photo really shows quintessential heartland rugby in a stunning paradise. We’ve got the most beautiful setting and it’s pretty hard to beat that view,” she said. “I also love the fact that it also shows our team playing in the finals, which we won, with the town getting behind them.”

A shortlist of 10 images was drawn up from public votes with the final decision made by former All Black captain and Crusaders coach, Todd Blackadder, The Press illustrations editor, Richard Cosgrove and Tourism New Zealand CEO, Kevin Bowler.

For further information, visit www.lakewanaka.co.nz or www.christchurchairport.co.nz/RugysBEST