Darts Club Relocates to Arrowtown After Price Disputes

The Queenstown Darts Club (QDC) has announced its relocation from the Queenstown Bowling Club to the Arrowtown Bowling Club following dissatisfaction with recent management changes and increased costs. The decision comes after the club has spent over six years at its former venue, where members expressed concerns regarding new pricing policies and a perceived lack of hospitality.

Committee member Jonny Yates highlighted significant price hikes, noting that the cost of a jug of beer surged from $10 to $18. He also mentioned that fees for social bowl players increased from $40 to $60, although club co-manager Geoff Short contended that these changes occurred prior to their management tenure, which began in September 2023. Yates conveyed frustration when darts events were cancelled to accommodate other club activities, stating, “We just got the impression we weren’t kind of welcome there.”

After discussions with the Arrowtown Bowling Club, Yates and his members found a new home. The club’s player attendance has already risen from the low 20s and 30s to approximately 45 players weekly. Yates noted the challenges of traveling to Queenstown and the dwindling club nights, emphasizing that Arrowtown provides a stronger sense of community. “It’s a bit more of a vibe, and quite a lot of our members are Arrowtown residents, anyway,” he explained.

The move aligns with the Arrowtown Bowling Club’s existing winter league, enhancing opportunities for QDC members. In response to the departure, Short remarked that it “doesn’t affect us significantly.” He acknowledged the club’s shift towards a more structured operation, stating, “Where people could come in and use the facilities without having staff here, those days have changed.” This reflects a transition towards a more formal business model with full-time staffing.

Short also defended the new pricing structure, asserting that $10 for a jug of beer was “way too cheap” and that their prices remain competitive. He pointed out, “We’re still 30% cheaper than anybody is in town.” The change in pricing has positioned the Queenstown Bowling Club differently in the market, which may affect its long-term viability as a venue for dart players.

As QDC settles into its new location, the hope is that the move will foster growth and a more welcoming atmosphere for its members, highlighting the importance of community in sports and leisure activities. The shift marks a significant change for the club, reflecting broader trends in local venue management and community engagement.