Hailing from Otago and studying/embracing the huge local musical output of the 80’s, Christie assumed bands like The Clean, The Verlaines, Sneaky Feelings and Straitjacket Fits would be on every corner throughout life. Noticing a drought in the 90’s within small town Wanaka where she now lives, it made sense to corral a troop of teachers, students (from Mt Aspiring College where she was Head of Music) and music-loving locals, to create a festival. 20 years later the not-for-profit Lake Wanaka Sounz has staged 11 festivals (Rippon and Tuki) and has also started YAMI (Youth & Adults in the Music Industry) summit, for future artists, producers, managers, engineers and promoters. Christie and her team are passionate about raising the creative industries of NZ to a height where they takes their place among our nation’s top exports.
Lynne Christie – Wanaka
