Ashburton Guardian, Saturday, August 28, 2021

AUG 28 2021

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Lockdown kindness Those good sorts at Aotea Electric Ashburton are out to recognise essential workers in Ashburton. Owners Andrew and Theresa Husband (above), are giving away coffee vouchers to frontline workers in an act of community goodwill with the South Island remaining in shutdown mode in alert level 4 until 11.59pm on Tuesday. “We really want to create some positivity for our community if we can,’’ Theresa said.

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2 NEWS

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

Evacuees on board a Defence Force Hercules in Kabul, Afghanistan, as part of an effort to airlift out New Zealand citizens, their families, visa holders, and Afghans under threat after the Taliban took over the country.

Right – Please stay safe. The father of an Afghani family, resettled in Ashburton, is anxious for his sister in Kabul and talks regularly with her.

Fearing for their families Malcolm Hopwood An Afghan refugee family relocated in Ashburton is concerned for the plight of family members caught up in the violence in Kabul and other parts of Afghanistan.

They also have displaced family members in Pakistan and Turkey and they were at risk of being deported back to Afghanistan, which yesterday was under attack.

Two suicide bombers and gunmen were reported to have attacked crowds of Afghans flocking Kabul’s airport desperately trying to flee the country, which the Taliban took control of last week. At least 60 Afghans were believed to be dead, along with 13 US soldiers as allied forces prepare to exit.

The Ashburton-based Afghan husband, wife and three children were first to be resettled here by Safer Mid Canterbury on May 28, but the Guardian was not permitted to name or clearly capture their faces in photos.

The Afghan family was one of three now living in Ashburton. A further family of 10 was at the ref-

ugee centre in Auckland, ready to be resettled here.

The Afghan husband, who communicated with the Guardian, was particularly anxious about a sister in Kabul. She had worked for the Afghan Government for several years. He speaks to her as often as he can and to other friends, who’ve also held Government positions. His wife has elderly parents and three sisters in Turkey.

“My family is in a very bad situation because of the work they have done for the Afghan government,” the father said.

The crisis in Afghanistan had displaced thousands of Afghans,

including new-born babies and the elderly. The overthrow had also ruined the dreams of young people, particularly females, they said.

Their biggest concern was losing friends and family members and the displacement of thousands of people as the Taliban occupied every single province of Afghanistan. They were alarmed that the Hazara/Shia Muslim people, that they belonged to, were targets of the Taliban and might be killed.

“We are lucky and very happy to be in New Zealand, but we are constantly worried about the situation in Afghanistan,’’ he said.

“It’s not a very good feeling.”

Refugee Settlement support team leader, Kathy Harrington-Watt, had written to Rangitata MP, Jo Luxton, on their behalf asking the Government to “find somewhere safe for families to live”. They’ve also joined other Afghani communities in New Zealand asking for government intervention.

The wife said family members, who’ve fled to Turkey, don’t have any legal documents and they could get deported back to Afghanistan.

“As an Afghani woman, I would request you help me so we can save them,” she said.

Church services go online Malcolm Hopwood

Parish Priest Denis Nolan (right) and assistant Priest, Huynh Tran, prepare for Friday’s mass.

If you can’t go to church, then church is going to you.

Every morning this week since the lockdown was extended, Holy Name Church in Sealy Street has live-streamed the mass to its pa-

rishioners.

Parish Priest, Denis Nolan, said Holy Name had traditionally held a daily mass and, when the church doors couldn’t open last Sunday, he decided to live-stream the service instead.

“I want to get the message out that we’re together in this,” he said.

While the mass was first and foremost a spiritual service, it was also an opportunity to deliver some key messages about being in lockdown.

He’s pleased that about 60 to 70 parishioners responded to Thursday’s mass and a similar number yesterday.

It’s a tandem exercise for Father Nolan and assistant Priest, Huynh Tran. One celebrates the mass, while the other reads the gospel.

Father Nolan, who’s in his third year at St Augustine of Canterbury Parish, said the live-stream masses would continue while we’re in lockdown and the church was closed.

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Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

Vaccination pop-ups ease pressure

PHOTO MELISSA SHIMMIN 240821-MS-114540

Adam Burns

NEWS 3 SHORT & SHARP

Level 3 Wednesday

All of New Zealand south of Auckland will move to alert level 3 at midnight Tuesday, but Auckland is likely to stay at level 4 for a further two weeks, the Prime Minister said yesterday.

Active cases in Wellington and a positive wastewater result in Christchurch were highlighted in keeping the rest of the country in lockdown for another four days.

70 new cases

Additional pop-up clinics in Ashburton are aiming to bolster the district’s wobbly Covid vaccination rollout.

The Canterbury District Health Board (CDHB) said more than 500 vaccinations would be administered in Mid Canterbury tomorrow in what would be “peak” numbers for the district.

It follows ongoing reports of lengthy delays – and grumbles from residents – around appointment availability in Ashburton compared to other spots in the wider region.

Rangitata MP Jo Luxton told one resident on her Facebook page this week that she would be following up with health officials around local concerns.

The CDHB said the community needed to keep checking online booking channels.

“We’re adding more clinics and more appointments in Ashburton to Book My Vaccine, the national booking system, all the time,” CDHB acting senior responsible officer for Covid-19 response Ralph La Salle said.

“If you’d like an earlier appointment, the best thing to do is to keep checking.”

Eight clinics are open or would be opening soon, augmented by appointment only pop-up clinics to “reach certain communities in the district”.

A further 70 new community cases were recorded in New Zealand yesterday, taking the total to 384. The Ministry of Health said there were 19 community cases in hospital, including one in ICU. The South Island continues to avoid the outbreak with no confirmed cases.

Covid test count A dip in Ashburton testing numbers have been recorded over the past few days after an inital surge. A total of 119 tests were conducted at the testing centre across the first four days of the working week. This number included a total of 75 swabs on Monday and Tuesday which eased to 44 across Wednesday and Thursday.

PHOTO ADAM BURNS 240821-AB-5824

Wastewater cleared Above – Running a tight shift at Hakatere Marae’s pop-up clinic on Wednesday were (from left) Tania Reuben, Debbie Jessep, Linda Holland and Jayne Kelly.

Left inset – Guardian employee Melissa Shimmin was delighted to get her second jab at Hakatere Marae earlier this week.

Nearly 5000 vaccinations had been administered in the Ashburton district so far, with close to 18,000 appointments booked but yet to take place through the Ministry of Health’s booking service.

The figures did not include the

Methven Medical Centre or Wises Pharmacy, who were managing their own schedules.

“We may need to postpone some appointments due to the need to introduce physical distancing requirements which limit our capacity,” La Salle said.

THE VACCINATION NUMBERS Nearly 5000: Vaccinations have been administered in the Ashburton District.

More than 500: Vaccinations taking place in Mid Canterbury tomorrow.

Close to 18,000: Vaccination appointments have been booked, but were yet to take place, through the Ministry of Health.

Eight vaccination clinics: Are open or

will be opening soon in Mid Canterbury Methven Medical Centre: Have administered about 2000 vaccines.

250 doses to be delivered at the Methven Rugby Club this weekend.

Hampstead Rugby Club: A fully booked pop-up clinic taking place this weekend with a corresponding second dose clinic earmarked for late October.

Appointments through Eastfield Health had been temporarily moved to the Ashburton Raceway.

Life Pharmacy Ashburton also held a clinic at Hakatere Marae earlier in the week.

The Methven Medical Centre was making “good progress” with its programme and its patients were waiting up to a fortnight for appointments, nurse practitioner Kathryn Hellyer said.

The general practice clinic, which services 5000 patients, had administered about 2000 vaccines and was expected to deliver a total of 250 doses at a pop-up clinic at the Methven Rugby Club this weekend.

Postive wastewater tests were detected in Christchurch earlier this week, believed to have been due to positive Covid-19 cases in the city’s MIQ facilities. But the Ministry of Health has given the all clear for the remainder of wastewater testing for the rest of the South Island.

Mayoral push Ashburton Mayor Neil Brown said getting the community vaccinated as quickly as possible was crucial. “We’ve been corresponding with the DHB to see how we can assist with setting up centres,” he said.

Level 4 compliance Police Commissioner Andrew Coster is pleased with the overall response to the alert level 4 restrictions, with the vast majority of New Zealanders complying and doing the right thing. Since alert level 4 came into place, 79 people have been charged with a total of 85 offences nationwide as at 5pm Thursday.

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4 NEWS

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

Opuke hot pools opening delayed Jonathan Leask The opening of Methven’s Opuke Thermal Pools and Spa has been further delayed by the current Alert Level 4 lockdown.

The $15 million project had planned to have opened by now, but the lockdown was the latest factor to push back the launch date, which was now looking likely to be in October.

“Unfortunately, we have experienced some unavoidable delays due to some extreme weather in the area and supply chain issues – particularly with galvanised steel in our plant room,” Opuke marketing co-ordinator, Olivia Attwood, said.

“All going well, we’re aiming for an opening early October, hopefully just in time for school holidays.

“We are pretty keen for a change to Level 3 so we can continue to have tradies on site, but it’s all a game of wait and see at the moment isn’t it.”

The construction may be on hold, but Attwood said the management team of the new tourism venture was now in place and the rest of the staff recruitment is under way.

“Despite a few delays, everyone

Methven’s Opuke Thermal Pools complex is nearing completion and had been due to open in August, but has been further delayed by the current Alert Level 4 lockdown.

PHOTO SUPPLIED is extremely excited to be working on the project, and can’t wait to see the doors open,” Attwood said.

The later than scheduled opening means it will miss most of the busy ski season, but the pools are set to make Methven a year-round tourist destination domestically and internationally, and the facility would provide employment for between 35-40 staff.

Sun powered pools There are 500 solar panels installed at the site that will generate a megawatt of energy for heating the water directly – with nothing electrical.

Opuke director James Mackenze said

the thermal collectors are the most efficient way of capturing the sun to heat water.

The water comes from the nearby Rangitata Diversion Race.

‘They could’ve done things better’ Potholes Mayor defends call for water reform pause Adam Burns Ashburton District Mayor Neil Brown says the government’s finite messaging around Three Waters reforms has led to community doubt in the proposal.

Timeframes around making informed decisions on the scheme has caused alarm for local councils before numerous mayors called to hit the pause button on proceedings this week.

Brown said the drip feed of detail had been a factor which had left the public uninformed and community leaders struggling to catch up.

“They’ll look back and say ‘we could’ve done it better’,” he said.

“The information coming out has been in piecemeal.”

“They’re out the front moving forward, but they haven’t been looking behind and keeping everyone up with them.”

The proposal centres on local councils handing over management of their drinking water, stormwater and wastewater infrastructure to four new publicly-owned multi-regional entities estab-

Ashburton District Mayor Neil Brown says communication on the Three Waters reform needed to be better.

PHOTO ASHBURTON GUARDIAN lished by the Government.

The stance has reportedly frustrated the minister who accused leaders of “playing political games’ with their communities’ futures”.

The Canterbury Mayoral Forum confirmed it had written a letter to Local Government minister Nanaia Mahuta on Monday, asking for the process to be put on hold.

“We believe this is essential in order to properly and authentically engage with our communities on this incredibly important decision,” Canterbury Mayoral Forum chair Sam Broughton said.

Brown defended the call from mayors to hold off.

“I don’t think they’re playing political games,” he said.

“All they’re doing is looking out for their communities and trying to protect those assets that those communities have paid for over the years.”

Brown, who has previously expressed concerns on the amount of reform being worked through, said it made sense to finalise the Future for Local Government review before decisions were made on Three Waters.

“It’s about getting the horse and the cart in the right order,” he said.

With councils expected to make a decision on opting in or out of the scheme by the end of this calendar year, Brown said the amount of work still required, including public consultation, would be “pushing it”.

Level 4 lockdown also meant last week’s scheduled Ashburton District Council workshop on the reforms also had to be shelved.

“It will possibly have to happen this week via Zoom, because the eight weeks (to provide feedback) was running out,” Brown said.

the hot topic Maddison Gourlay The Ashburton District Council are aware of the number of potholes in the district’s roads, and their next step is for the public to use an app.

On Wednesday council validated the community’s concerns about the district’s roading network, with potholes being “the talk at the moment,” Ashburton Mayor Neil Brown said.

Brown and chief executive Hamish Riach held a Zoom meeting explaining what they are doing to ease the community’s concern with the issue, and pointed out how the public can assist with this.

“What we would really appreciate from the community is being told where [issues] are,” Riach said.

“Snap Send Solve is a very good way of getting information into the office.”

The council are encouraging residents to use the app to report potholes, and other roading problems, in the district.

“We are really conscious that we are a bit behind,” Riach said. “There are potholes, and more than we would like.”

They said that the recent weather had been the main contributor to the roads’ deterioration.

Under Alert Level 4 restrictions, road works have continued including pothole repairs, grading, channel and intersection sweeping, and monitoring and making safe defects that compromise safety.

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

COVID-19 ALERT

All of NZ is staying at Alert Level 4 to stop Delta Thank you for doing your bit to help stamp out COVID-19. It’s still too early to know if the Delta outbreak is fully contained. That’s why Alert Level 4 is being extended nationwide.

New Zealand will remain at Alert Level 4 until 11.59pm Tuesday 31 August.

From Wednesday 1 September all areas south of Auckland will move to Alert Level 3.

Auckland and Northland will remain at Alert Level 4, to be reviewed on Monday 30 August.

Stay at home

Visiting public spaces

The Delta variant is highly infectious and can spread from people simply walking past each other. So it’s important to stick to your bubble. Only go out for exercise or to access necessities like groceries and medical care, including testing and vaccinations.

You can visit places to access necessities. Playgrounds are closed.

Places where people may linger or struggle to maintain a 2-metre distance should be avoided.

Wear a face covering It’s recommended you wear a face covering whenever you leave home.

If you’re aged 12 or over, you must wear a face covering when: • Accessing necessities at places like supermarkets, pharmacies and petrol stations

Checking locations of interest Locations of interest are updated regularly, so keep checking back to ensure you have the latest information.

• On public transport, flights, and at arrival and departure points, for example train stations and bus stops

If you were at a location of interest at the time listed, isolate and call Healthline on 0800 358 5453 immediately about getting a test.

Members of your household must also isolate immediately.

No one can leave the house for exercise or necessities until you receive a negative test.

• In taxi or ride-share vehicles (both drivers and passengers).

Seek help if feeling overwhelmed

Please respect those who can’t wear a face covering due to a health condition.

We know that staying in your bubble can be hard for some people.

If you feel you need help, it is available to you. For support with grief, anxiety, distress or mental wellbeing, you can call or text the ‘Need to talk?’ service on 1737. This is free and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It gives you the chance to talk with a trained counsellor.

When it’s ok to exercise Unless you’re isolating, you can go for a walk, run or bike ride.

Just remember to: • Stay close to home • Keep at least 2 metres away from those outside your bubble • Do not do activities such as surfing, tramping, boating or hiking that could require emergency services if you got in trouble.

Booking your vaccination Anyone aged 30 or over can reserve their vaccination online at BookMyVaccine.nz or by calling 0800 28 29 26.

Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself, your family and your community from COVID-19.

Let’s all keep working together this weekend to stop Delta Find out more at Covid19.govt.nz 19

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6 NEWS

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

Racing in the slot

C

ovid fatigue has prompted memories of happier, simpler times so let’s just leave the horrid lurg aside for a moment.

As an 11-year-Peterold Ashburton lad in1968, I have two key memories.

One was seeing a brand new Holden HK and figuring I’d NEVER in my lifetime be able to own a car as stunning as that.

And two, but actually more importantly, I discovered the world of Scalextric.

And that bug seized me in its grip.

Scalextric for those unfamiliar, was a genius invention where two model racing cars compete on a two-lane slotted track with power applied through a hand controller via two metal power-conducting strips either side of each slot. A small fin under the front of each car kept the vehicle in the slot with two braids picking up power from the strips on the track.

Yes it really was genius. And so popular, even full-blown ridgy didge international motor racing drivers of the day were known to acquire sets of their own.

My cousin Jack, about six or seven years my senior, had an after school job by this stage so he was “boots-in” with the very first set I ever saw. He set it up with a track that wound its way through

Peter McQuarters PETE’S PERSPECTIVE the lounge and out into the hall as a “special stage” and I was hooked. Every time he squeezed the hand controller it unfortunately played havoc with the patchy black and white television reception which didn’t impress his older brother.

I drooled, I dreamed, I was infatuated with Jack’s Scalextric, but being 11 and having no income, it was all out of my reach until my dad, acutely aware of my enduring enthusiasm, acquired a good second hand set for me for my birthday.

I had arrived. That birthday was celebrated with much joy.

Meanwhile, cousin Jack had left school and begun full-time employment. This enabled him to step up (he always led the way) and had commissioned through Tuckers Joinery, a bespoke-built huge slot track layout with not two, but three lanes.

A magnificent raceway that spanned the whole back of his dad’s garage and was complete with control tower, lights, marshalls, signs, all the tricks. He would sit in the family Morris 8, behind the steering wheel and

operate the controllers from there.

For added “authenticity”.

Slot car racing of that era took a real grip on Ashburton youth and before long another very large track was purpose built by the Ashburton Slot Car Club and installed upstairs in the now long-gone Saunders Building on the corner of Wills and Cass Streets. I well remember climbing those stairs and revelling in the scene, but always in awe of the

older boys who had souped-up cars with “fats”, “spongies” and spoilers and in a different league to me and my budget.

Decades later whilst trawling through my then favourite place in Christchurch, FAZZAZ, a prequake emporium of the finest classic cars, they had for sale a re-issue of a very early classic Scalextric set.

Yes, I bought it.

And I proudly have it at home – seldom use it, but just looking at

the box and occasionally opening the lid to reveal the pristine set inside, fills me with nostalgia that is worth its weight in gold.

Oh, the memories.

Broadcaster Peter Mac is Ashburton born and bred and the afternoon host on the Hokonui Radio Network.

The views expressed in this column are his and do not reflect the opinion of his employer or the Ashburton Guardian.

Council to consult on lakes settlement Jonathan Leask Community consultation would help decide the future expectations for the Lake Clearwater settlement.

The Ashburton District Council plans to consult the public later in the year on a strategy for the area on the back of water quality concerns, including increasing contamination from nutrients and other minerals.

A scientific report commissioned

by Environment Canterbury (ECan) and the Department of Conservation (DOC) found that significant

reductions in nutrient loads was required to preserve water quality in the high country lakes.

ECan director of science Dr Tim Davie said the report showed the Ashburton lakes were in a delicate state, with some “at risk of flipping, which means entering a long-term turbid, algal-rich, degraded state, from which lakes usually do not recover easily”.

Council officers have been involved in addressing the issues and have undertaken audits and surveys of toilet facilities in the Lake Clearwater settlement, where some longdrops still exist.

Separate from the waste issue, council staff have also completed an initial survey of the settlement to identify property boundaries.

As a result of these works, it has become apparent that rules around the settlement may not be fit for current purpose.

Ashburton District Mayor Neil Brown said it was timely to review how councillors and the community saw the settlement and its future growth.

“We look forward to talking with the entire community later in the year, to understand their aspirations for the settlement,” Brown said.

The Lake Clearwater huts settlement was first laid out in the 1920s to provide for “fishermen” baches and picnicking and there were now 198 dwellings in the village, as well as a public campground and public toilets.

NEWS 7

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

A spring in our step Warmer than normal weather enabled Ashburton residents to follow Minister of Health Chris Hopkins’ advice and spread their, um, legs.

Mid Canterbury, along with most of the east coast of the South Island, got to experience springlike temperatures, which was perfect for indulging in state-mandated Alert Level 4 lockdown exercising.

The mercury hit 21 degrees in Ashburton mid-

week and the reason for the warmer weather was what was called a Foehn wind coming off the Southern Alps.

With the good weather on our side, all walks of life enjoyed the sunshine for the first three days of the week.

Reporter Maddison Gourlay captured some of the action, while wearing a mask and socially distancing, of course.

The Ashburton Domain was a prime spot to enjoy the good weather in the beginning of the week, Kaye and Bill Black said that they are pleased to live close to the domain. They decided to take a break on their walk and watch the ducks to catch their breath.

260821-MG-004

There was one tree in the domain that was attracting several monarch butterflies, it was also one of a few showing signs of spring.

260821-MG-008

Above left – The happy and tired corgi Elvis was very pleased to be on a walk with his owner Anna McDonald.

260821-MG-009 Left – Although it isn’t quite time for ducklings at the domain, for people who love ducks the Ashburton Domain is a prime spot.

260821-MG-005

Trevor and Annette Watson appreciated their walk in the park, hoping to sight a dog or two.

260821-MG-007

Ex-Ashburtonian top Christian author Malcolm Hopwood A former Ashburton man, who’s now a leading New Zealand Christian author and publisher, is inviting Mid Canterbury residents to a workshop he’s holding in Christchurch to improve their writing skills and boost their output.

George Bryant QSM, has just published his 23rd book, and wants to encourage other inspirational writers to raise their sights and continue to write. His workshop is scheduled to be held on October 16.

Bryant, a former secondary school principal, city councillor, theologian and president of Social Credit when it was represented in parliament, now spends his time writing, editing and publishing books that “give hope and influence people and society in a positive way”.

His last book, which became available at the start of 2021, is entitled Life Is . . .

“In the book, I reflect on many aspects of life, the value and uniqueness of human beings, our enjoyments, our endeavours, deprivations and motivations,” he said.

While Bryant calls himself “an ordinary Kiwi”, he has an MA (Honours), Diploma of Education and was a prefect at Ashburton High School.

He’s returned home from the North Island several times and recalls Ashburton as a congenial town, with a safe neighbourhood and a good outdoor life.

He’s particularly interested in the future of Baring Square Church and remembers holding the first dance the Methodists

Writing expert Who: Former Ashburton man George Bryant, QSM. What: Holding a writing workshop in Christchurch on October 16.

As an author: Has just published his 23rd book. permitted on church land.

Bryant is a member of the NZ Society of Authors and has held writing seminars in 12 New Zealand towns and cities for about 300 people.

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8 NEWS

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

BACK SEAT

The Jaguar and the moped A

young man goes out and buys his dream car – an E-Type Jaguar.

A very quick car and an absolute classic.

He goes out for a drive and along the way has to stop at traffic lights.

An older gentleman on a moped (both looking about 95 years old) pulls up beside him.

The old gentleman looks over the sleek shiny surface of the car and asks “what kind of car have ya’ got there sonny?”

The young man replies “it’s an E-Type Jaguar and it cost me a lot of money”.

“Why did it cost so much?” asks the old gentleman.

“Because this car is so quick off the mark and can go very fast,” was the reply.

The old gentleman on the moped asks “Can I look inside?”

“Sure,” says the E-Type owner, so the old gentleman pokes his head in the window and looks around.

Then leaning back on his moped he says “That sure is a pretty nice car sonny”.

Just then the light turns green so the young fellow decides to show the old gentleman what the car can do.

He floors it and within seconds the speedometer reads 185 kilometres per hour.

Suddenly the young man no-

Bernard Egan FROM THE BACK SEAT tices a dot in his rear view mirror which is catching up on him, he slows down to see what it is and whhhoooossssshhh!

Something whips past him going much faster.

“What on earth could be going faster than my E-Type Jaguar?” the young man asked himself.

Then ahead of him he sees a dot coming towards him.

Whhhoooossssshhh!

It goes by him again heading in the opposite direction.

And it looked like the old gentleman on the moped.

Couldn’t be thinks the young fellow. “How could a moped out run an E-Type Jaguar?”

Again he sees a dot coming up fast in his rear view mirror.

Whhhoooossssshhh –

Bernard Egan is a well known man around these parts and as a bit of a storyteller he endeavours to offer some light-hearted yarns through Tales From The Back Seat.

BLAMMM! It ploughs into the back of the E-Type.

The young man hops out and discovers it is the

old gentleman on the moped.

Both the old gentleman and his moped must be hurting.

The young fellow says to the old gentleman “You’re hurt bad, is there anything I can do for you?”

The old gentleman groans and replies: “Yes sonny, please unhook my braces from your side view mirror”.

9

RantorRave

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

Send your opinion to editor@theguardian.co.nz | PO Box 77 | facebook.com/ashguardian

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LETTERS We welcome your letters and emails, but: No more than 100 words.

We reserve the right to edit or not publish.

OUR VIEW

Covid truths like you never imagined G

loom, doom, worry.

For many, they’re stuck in that pessimistic Covid frame of mind.

Cases numbers and location of interest places grow almost by the hour, we live in ghost towns and cities, which are shut down and devoid of people while we work our way through this.

Is there light at the end of the tunnel? Some people can’t even find a tunnel, but maybe this will help. It was sent to me by a friend with way too much Covid stuck-at-home-time on his hands.

It’s called Covid truths.

Please, dial into your sense of humour before reading any further.

• It’s been a great blessing to be at home with the wife during lockdown. We’ve caught

Daryl Holden up on everything I’ve done wrong for the past 20 years.

• Day 7 of social distancing: Struck up a conversation with a spider today. He seemed nice. He’s a web designer.

• When this virus thing is over . . . I still want some of you to stay away from me.

• If the past few months have taught us anything, it’s that stupidity travels faster than any virus on the planet.

• Just wait a second. So what you’re telling me is that my chances of survival are directly linked to the com-

mon-sense of others?

• People are getting scared of congregating in crowds. As if catching a deadly disease and dying a horrible death wasn’t enough of a deterrent.

• If you believe all this will end and we will get back to normal once we reopen everything, raise your hand.

Now slap yourself with it.

• Another Saturday night at home, and I just realised even the rubbish goes out more than I do.

• Day eight at home and the dog is looking at me like: “See, this is why I chew furniture.’’

• Whoever decided a liquor store was more essential than a hair salon is obviously a bald-headed alcoholic.

• Remember when you were little and all your underwear

had the days of the week written on them? That would be helpful right now.

• The spread of Covid-19 is based on two things: 1: How dense the population is 2: How dense the population is • I’m so excited to take the rubbish out. I wonder what I should wear.

• Remember those times when you wished the weekend would last forever. Well, wish granted. Happy now?

• It may take a village to raise a child, but I swear it will take a whole vineyard to homeschool one.

• I washed a big load of pyjamas today so I would have enough clean clothes for work next week.

• Silly you. I mean, you thought

dogs were hard to train. Look at all the humans who can’t sit and stay at home.

And one final thing . . .

Anti-vaxxers.

Incredibly, I’ve read where those among us refusing to have Covid vaccination jabs still exist in significant numbers.

Now, we must respect everyone for their view, but really?

This is just plain dumb.

Yes, it’s true that a Covid jab won’t guarantee that you won’t get sick. Nor will it guarantee that you won’t pass on Covid to anyone else.

But, people, it’s been a long-established medical fact that getting vaccinated enormously reduces the chances of both.

Enough said.

So ends my sermon.

We may not be able to walk into many shops, but there are still ALREADY FEELING loads of local businesses providing goods for Mid Cantabrians THE COLD THIS through contactless deliveries and pick-ups.

HERE THEY ARE: WINTER? PLEASE NOTE: When accessing any businesses, lockdown rules and procedures must beOur strictly adhered to own canvas OPEN

CONTACTLESS DELIVERY

On The Spot

Wareing Group Limited

Essential Service

horse CONTACTLESS COLLECTand synthetic covers BRIDGESTONE MorrisonsWeather Saddlery & feed CENTRE BeetaTYRE covers!

ALREADY FEELING THE COLDcollect THIS Contactless forWINTER? account and

ASHBURTON OPEN DURING LOCKDOWN

IN STOCK NOW

Business as usual

WHEN: Normal business hours Contact: 302 8616

www.harness.co.nz eftpos customers

Please call first to arrange a booking and for details on contactless service.

Our own canvas horse Contact 308 3422 coversChris: and synthetic MORRISONS Weather Beeta covers!SADDLERY

& FEED

32 Racecourse Rd, Ashburton Tel: 03-308-3422 Open Monday to Friday 7:30am to 5pm www.harness.co.nzor 0800from (427 637) 1 Harness Cox Street, Ashburton.

IN STOCK NOW

• Confectionery • Drinks • Groceries • Instore Specials • Food to Go

MORRISONS SADDLERY & FEED 32 Racecourse Rd, Ashburton

CONTACTLESS DELIVERY

OPEN FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES

Allenton Fresh

Stewart & Holland We are open for essential services

Phone: 03 308 6737 On call phone: 021 597 517

Tel: 03-308-3422 24 HOURorCALLOUTS 0800 Harness (427 637)

Call 03 307 8438 to book 24/7 Callouts available

CONTACTLESS DELIVERY

NEUMANNS TYRES

Rural Transport

We are open for essential service, with callouts available 24 hours!

WHEN: Normal business hours Contact: 308 4079

Contactless Delivery Please call 03 308 7711 or email orders to orders@allentonfresh.co.nz

Business as usual

*callout fees may apply

Phone: 03 308 6737

OPEN FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES

Everist Gilchrist Lawyers We are open for essential services Please text 021904154,

me o H Dentistry on Parkside

FulleBakery s i r e v i e Del

Aotea Electric Ashburton

Emergency appointments only at alert level 3 & 4Butchery Please call 03 308 7472 to Grocery be assessed * fresh local produce No walk in appointments Please check our website for 98 updated informa� onHarrison Street, Allenton, Ashburton 7700

Hom

or email jon.everist@xtra.co.nz or marilyn.gilchrist@xtra.co.nz

Full Bakery Butchery www.den� stryonparkside.co.nz Grocery

P. 03 308 7711 E. admin@allentonfresh.co.nz

* fresh local produce

Employment, family, criminal, traffic and

es ESSENTIAL SERVICES

ri EMERGENCY APPOINTMENTS Delive

98 Harrison Street, Allenton, Ashburton 7700 P. 03 308 7711 E. admin@allentonfresh.co.nz

Open for emergency electrical work Contact: 03 308 2621

CONTACTLESS DELIVERY

Liquorland

Liquorland Racecourse Road is open for Contactless Delivery at Level 4

WHEN: 10am - 5pm PHONE: 307 8886 EMAIL: racecourseroad@liquorland.co.nz

CONTACTLESS DELIVERY

Petzone

Petzone is open for animal essentials.

HOW: Pick up or delivery WHEN: Tuesday, Thursday and

Puparazzi

Got an event happening after lockdown? Invite us along: editorial@theguardian.co.nz

Saturday. 12-1pm Where: 167 Tancred Street Contact: 03 307 8660 or message us on Facebook

Woof. Woof. It was International Dog Day on Thursday and we asked readers to share a photo on our Facebook page of their four legged-friend and tell us their name, breed, and what they love most about them.

Well, doggone it, we got swamped by entries, and they’re still coming in. More than 250 entries so far and 10,000-plus followers reached. Better still, PetZone Ashburton have come to the dog party, offering up prizes for the best small, medium and large pooch.

We approached leading judges from the internationally renowned Crufts Dog Show to pick our winners, but they were all unavailable. So resident Guardian dog lover, Daryl Holden, will make the call. Don’t bark at him if he gets it wrong.

ESSENTIAL SERVICES

Gary McCormick Transport Gary McCormick Transport are available for all essen�al rubbish pickups Phone: 03 307 2100

• For Casual & Permanent Bin Hires • Cardboard Recycling • Drum Hires

Henry is a shih tzu bichon cross. I love her.

She’s a big part of our family and our best Rebekah Shaun Hope friend.

Bagel is an 8-month-old shiba inu pup. His favourite treat is cheese and the thing we love most about him is how snuggly he is in the mornings.

Ash Syme

Bonnie is a Bull Mastiff and is 10 years young.

She has a loving nature. Unless, of course, you’re driving a postie car. Then she feels the Serena Jensen need to protect us.

Mya is a Siberian Husky. I love how loyal she is. She has been my most loyal friend for over Harmony Marie Mo’ale 12 years.

Jimmy is a mini schnauzer and we love him because he is like a member of our family.

Olivia Wilson

Kopu (Koputara) is a greyhound. I love how chill yet goofy she is. This is one of the more serious poses.

Lynda Wilkins

Maziee, a yorkie cross, and Willow, a shitzu cross. They follow me everywhere. Love that they are always there and they make you smile.

Diane Stapleton

Ollie is an SPCA animal. Breed unknown. He has a wide understanding of what we say (and when to pretend he doesn’t) and is pretty good at telling us his opinion, too.

Sandra Mosley

Ginger boy, Foxy is the most affectionate dog ever! Fellow border collie Lexie, super-fast, and very loyal girl.

Cilla N Jon Baker

Mishka is a Siberian Husky. What I love most about her is her typical husky attitude and her sweet gentle nature. Amy-Lea Cooper

Winston is an old soul and very loyal black miniature schnauzer. Otis is my devil child but so affectionate.

Heather Phillips

Tui is a miniature dachshund and we love her because she is so cuddly, yet still a rough and Nelle Thomas tumble dog when playing.

We offer a regular Rubbish Removal Service, with many local Companies hiring our Front Loader Bins and using our Cardboard Recycling Cages, We also have Open Top Bins on a casual basis, for property clean ups, building works and Garden tidy ups.

And a Household and/or Garden waste Drum empty service.

All provided by a Company based in Tinwald.

Gary McCormick Transport Ltd

CONTACTLESS DELIVERY

PO Box 5044, Tinwald, Ashburton 7741 | Phone: 3072100 | Fax: 3072101

Wilson Bulk Transport Business as usual

WHEN: Normal business hours Contact: 308 7772

CONTACTLESS COLLECT

The Stable Door Equine For your contactless feed supplies during Level 3 and 4 Contact: 027 220 2249

12

YourLife

Do you want to honour someone?

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

Contact editor@theguardian.co.nz for enquiries

Ray McCausland

was the ‘perfect, small

Malcolm Hopwood Ray McCausland Career Journalist Born 1940 Died 2021

R

ay McCausland, who died last month, will be remembered as one of Ashburton’s great storytellers.

The back page of the Ashburton Guardian was left empty for Ray to fill. It was his page and, over a 20-year period, he chronicled the great personalities and historical events of Mid Canterbury.

Ray’s house on Beatty Crescent was full of books and, when he wasn’t writing, he was reading. So enthusiastic was he about people and places, that he hammered many typewriters to death over a 30-year career as a journalist.

Ray was a two-fingered typist and his dedication to a story was reflected in the damage he did to his Olympia. The more passionate he became, the more he pounded the keys through the paper and carbon copies.

Ray McCausland was born in Christchurch on June 16, 1940, and, at the age of 18, became an apprentice cabinetmaker. His dad was a cabinetmaker and probably influenced Ray’s choice of early career.

But Ray had an interest in writing and he absorbed history and literature in his spare moments.

About the time he completed his apprenticeship, he took a correspondence course in journalism.

It led him to a new profession at the Christchurch Star and Press, and then the Ashburton Guardian in the early 1970s.

One memory comes from former Press journalist and TV reporter, John Knowles. Ray hadn’t given his apprenticeship away entirely and took notes with a carpenter’s pencil. John remembers a council meeting interrupted by the scratching noises Ray made when reporting proceedings.

Neither did he give away his tools. They remained valuable to him, were almost as plentiful as his books and now feature in the Lynn Woodwork Museum at the Plains.

Ray found his niche at the Guardian. He initially reported on council, but quickly started writing “people stories” as he got to know the community.

When I became editor in 1978, I discovered Ray’s talent as a storyteller and gave him the back

IN BRIEF WHO: Ray McCausland (June 16, 1940 to July 30, 2021) WHAT: Journalist and storyteller WHERE: Ashburton Guardian WHY: Over several decades Ray faithfully chronicled the lives of Mid Canterbury people and the historical events of the community.

Ray McCausland as the community remembered him. page to fill each Saturday. He also wrote other stories, mostly based on his love of history and people and the characters that shaped Mid Canterbury’s life.

It was in Ashburton that the quirky nature of Ray’s character became obvious. He lived his stories and was often in a world of his own as he absorbed them in his mind.

As a release, he would race outside and run between the parking meters, slapping them as he went.

One second, he was beside you, the next he was choreographing a dance along Burnett Street.

Ray had a huge love of battles, in particular the Second World War, Prime Minister Winston Churchill and General John McCausland, a hero of the American Civil War. A vivid memory was of Ray clattering down the Guardian stairs, demanding the Falklands War be the front-page lead for the length of the conflict. I’m sure being a war correspondent was second only to writing features.

Ray’s commitment to reading was so great that, in one estimation, 80 per cent of his home, was littered with books. He’d take a week off during Bookarama and spend from 9-5pm daily buying them by the packing case.

Ray stepped down from the Guardian in the late 1990s as the mental illness which he fought during his lifetime became a constant problem. Friends close to him knew that, if he didn’t take his medication, he needed time in care.

In his latter years, Ray lived by himself and, when he could no longer drive his Ford Prefect to his bach at Waikuku Beach in North Canterbury, he sold both.

In the final 13 years and one day, he lived at Rosebank Resthome, enjoying being looked after and getting visits from a close circle of friends.

His memory lives on in his writing and the satisfaction he gave thousands of Guardian subscribers over many years.

At his funeral and the days that followed, many tributes were paid to Ray. Dot King, who was engaged to Ray for about 18 months and remained a good friend during his life, said he was warm and affectionate, committed to journalism and “did well in everything he attempted”.

They caught up together when she moved to England and took Ray to Chartwell House, the home of Winston Churchill. Ray knew the historic building intimately

Ray never forgot his cabinetmaking background and built his own red letterbox. through his research and described what the wartime leader was doing and thinking in just about every room.

She described Ray as being frugal and recalls a meal out when he paid for one milkshake with two straws and ordered a fisherman’s basket they could both share.

Bill and Margaret Ross knew Ray for nearly 55 years and said he “became family” during that time. He was very private but opened up as their friendship grew. They “grew to love him”, appreciating his loyalty and knowledge. Often, if they were out, they’d leave a key for him and he’d enter, put the kettle on and wait for their return.

Graeme and Adrienne Moodie were close to Ray for the last four decades of his life and regular visitors to Rosebank, often twice a week. They once invited Ray to Christmas lunch and it became a yearly celebration from then on.

“Ray was very kind-hearted, well read, knew his history and, in later life, was generous with money, often spending it on other people,” they said.

Bruce Bell, owner and publisher of the Guardian, then a sales rep,

said the newspaper was Ray’s life. “He was incredibly loyal and had an immense respect for the heritage of the newspaper and my family,” he said.

He recalls an incident when Ray volunteered to cover a story in Methven. There was no Guardian car so Ray took his own. Together, with a photographer, he left in his Prefect and never got out of second gear during the whole journey, there and back.

American journalist, Ron Redmond, who once worked for the Guardian recalls Ray as a “sweet, kind man, with a heart-warming smile and a bad morning shave”.

“I remember him coming into the office in the morning with bits of tissue paper stuck to his face, tie askew and bicycle clips around his ankles.”

Ron also described Ray as a “perfect small town newspaper man” and there’s no better description. Ray was unique. In knowing his audience, he knew what to write, who to write it for and contributed hugely to the success of the newspaper over many years.

His legacy was about as huge as the battered typewriters he left behind.

OBITUARY 13

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

Above – Only a few hundred of the thousands of books Ray bought and read.

town newspaper man’

Above – At times during Ray’s life, he attacked his garden like his typewriter.

Above – Ray enjoyed writing the story about the German invasion of Hakatere. Former Guardian photographer, Graeme Moodie, showed him the story he wrote, a few months before Ray died.

Right – A typical snapshot of Ray’s two-fingered assault on his Olympia typewriter.

14 WEEKEND FOCUS

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

Edward VIII warmed the seat of Bruce’s prize possession A

shburton’s Bruce McIlroy is hoping his 1922 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost will receive a letter from Queen Elizabeth next year.

After all, during its 99-year-old life, it’s carried Royalty. In the mid-1920s it was shipped to Kenya by the new Governor-General, awaiting the arrival of the Prince of Wales, later to become King Edward VIII, the Queen’s uncle.

In a turbulent decade, he abdicated before his coronation in 1936 and married American divorcee, Wallis Simpson.

By then the Rolls-Royce had been a popular safari car with the British Raj until it was abandoned, for more than 30 years, on a Kenyan farm.

The Silver Ghost tourer came off the immaculate production line in Derby, England in December 1922 and was purchased by Sir Arthur Cory-Wright.

When the new Phantom came on the market, he onsold it to Major Caldwell but, by 1925, it was one of two Rolls the new Governor-General of Kenya took with him to Nairobi.

In the years that followed the Royal visit, the beautifully crafted Rolls-Royce went into slow decline.

By 1960, British businessman, Jack Ruben, found it abandoned with a Tanganyika tree growing up through the middle of it.

Royalty, Governors-General and the British Raj have enjoyed a ride in a 99-year-old example of precision British engineering. For the past 22 years, the Silver Ghost’s home is Mid Canterbury and the Rolls-Royce will soon celebrate a very special anniversary.

By Malcolm Hopwood He found the owner of the remains, offered him 10 pounds for the derelict car, spent a similar amount celebrating the purchase and had it transported to an Italian coach-builder in Nairobi before

lington to live, and, it was from him, that Bruce McIlroy bought the Silver Ghost, back in 1999.

There’s another interesting twist to the grand old lady’s story. By the time

the engineering, the attention to detail, the colourful “ It’s history, its ease to drive even without power steering and the sheer luxury of owning it.

the ink on the purchase agreement was dry.

After having it fully restored in Kenya and then in England, Ruben came to Wel-

Ruben discovered the Rolls, the engine had seized, but he found another, a 1911 reconditioned engine, gearbox and radiator, sitting in Government House, await-

Ready for royalty. The Rolls-Royce tourer with driver, waits for the Prince of Wales to climb aboard. Notice the Royal crest on the front and no number plates.

ing the arrival of President Kenyatta.

So, the body of the restored Rolls-Royce that Bruce McIlroy proudly owns is 99 years old, but its ticker, its engine and gearbox, is 110 years of age.

“These old cars are survivors,” Bruce commented.

He’s owned it for 22 years and loves everything about it.

“It’s the engineering, the attention to detail, the colourful history, its ease to drive even without power steering and the sheer luxury of owning it,” he said.

Rolls-Royces spurn kilometres and Bruce and his wife, Philomena, have travelled 80,000 miles in the tourer. He doesn’t know what mileage it travelled in its early life as it turned the clock back every 10,000 miles and, for more than 40 years, it wasn’t roadworthy.

Its biggest journey was in 2013. Bruce and Philomena shipped it to England before they drove 4500 miles, to recreate the 1913 Austrian Alpine Trials.

Rolls-Royces came first, second, third and possibly fourth in the long-distance event and the McIlroy Silver Ghost was one of 40 on the rally.

They travelled from St Moritz in Switzerland, across northern Italy, Austria, Slovenia and back to Switzerland, via the alpine passes.

“We had a trouble-free journey, no flat tyres no nothing,” Bruce commented.

One of many memories stays with him.

“We journeyed across the Stelvio mountain pass from Italy to Switzerland.

It has 48 hairpins in 20 kilometres and reaches 6100 feet in height.”

The Rolls performed superbly throughout the pass which has been described by Top Gear as “the greatest driving road in the world”.

On the flat, the McIlroy Silver Ghost cruised at 60mph and 20mph “on the steep bits”.

“It proved that everything I experienced and knew about the Rolls-Royce was accurate,” Bruce said.

“These were the cars that gave RollsRoyce its name.”

While his 1922 tourer was one of the oldest – some dated back to 1912 – his engine and gearbox would have matched the vintage of any of them.

Next year is the 50th anniversary of the Rolls-Royce and Bentley Club and Bruce will celebrate his tourer’s 100th birthday by travelling to Masterton in April for the club’s annual meeting and then cruise parts of the North Island before returning home.

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

WEEKEND FOCUS 15

Bruce McIlroy settles into his Rolls-Royce for another drive into the country.

But he promises there’ll be a birthday party back in Ashburton at year’s end that could include a drive around Mid Canterbury and further.

Bruce, an A grade mechanic, also shares his passion for prestigious cars with the Bentley.

Such is the luxury of both, that he opened his Rolls-Royce and Bentley workshop in 1995. He services and restores cars from New Zealand and overseas.

“Part of our reputation is that our technicians are trained on all new Bentley models,” he comments.

It became obvious that his Rolls had to have a mate. He found it in 2005 in Wanaka, the last of the 4.1/4L Bentleys.

It also started its life in Derby in 1939, survived the war, and was shipped to New Zealand in 1955.

However, both aren’t museum pieces.

They’re working cars, used regularly, they’ve travelled New Zealand roads in rallies and family holidays and are part of the McIlroy family.

Bruce read about them when young, saved up to buy his first Bentley in 1976 and now owns two magnificent examples that he doesn’t intend to part with.

“They’re not for sale,” he says although he won’t rule out that, sometime in the future, they could be joined by another.

Bruce’s Bentley with manual overdrive. Built in 1939, it survived the war and made its way to New Zealand.

16

DriveThru Got a car question? Maybe Roger can help.

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

subs@theguardian.co.nz

Skoda Octavia RS Wagon.

Best way to the course

D

uring normal times, there’s usually a 5pm Friday gathering at Kelly’s of a group of blokes, most of whom have spent the previous couple of hours attending a (golf) course.

Critical analysis, almost post-mortems of individuals performances then follow.

Of course, it’s traditional that the losers must shout.

Then, many times, discussions carry on to as which vehicles are the most golf gear/bloke friendly.

In this respect, no-one disputes that Hoppy’s Mercedes is the quickest, that the boot space of a certain Camry is impressive, while that of the last of the Commodores is compromised. Also, that a recently acquired RAV4 Hybrid’s all-wheel drive is well suited for one who tends to

Ford Escape ST-Line AWD

spend a bit of time in the rough.

With such in depth analysis/comments in mind, I’ve decided that two recently driven vehicles both fit the bill.

Both with very comfortable accommodation for both people and golf gear, as well as delivering impressively keen, effortless performances, cornering, and handling.

They are the $50,990 Ford Escape STLine AWD SUV, and for those who may not be obsessed with SUVs, the $57,990 Skoda Octavia RS Wagon.

Power/performance.

The Escape’s 2-litre Ecoboost turbo-petrol produces 183kW and 387Nm of torque at 3150rpm.

With its eight-speed auto and allwheel-drive, times of 6.65 seconds for 0-100kmh are possible.

The stated overall fuel use is 8.6L/100km.

Mean-

while the Octavia RS’s powertrain (which is very similar to that of the latest VW Golf 8 GTI) is also a 2-litre turbo-petrol, which delivers 180kW and 370Nm of torque between 1600-4300rpm.

This drives the front wheels through a seven-speed DSG auto.

Stats for the 0-100kmh times and fuel economy are 6.7 seconds and 6.6L/100km respectively.

Space and grace in both.

The Escape’s cabin is large, plushily furnished and comfortable, with the STLine’s red stitched seating, both looking and feeling inviting. Both front seats are heated, the driver’s with 10-way power adjustment.

The digital dash and Sync 3 infotainment system with B&O audio system proved both easy to use and follow, while one soon gets used to the rotary gear selector.

The rear seats slide for either maximum legroom or luggage/gear space, which is 556 litres with all seats occupied, or 1478 litres with rear seats folded and with hands-free accessibility.

You of course sit lower in the Octavia Wagon’s also red stitched, powered and heated sports seats.

Again, there’s digital screens and mostly intuitive touchscreen controls, together with a neat little gear select lever in the centre console.

With the rear seats in place the Octavia’s impressive luggage/golf gear area holds 640 litres (or 1700 litres

with rear seats folded) and is easily loaded via the powered fifth door.

Towing.

Braked ratings for the Escape is 1800kg and the Octavia 1600kg.

PHEVS – Clean Car Refunds of $5750 available?

Yes, for the Escape PHEV, with its combination of a 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle petrol engine, 14.4kWh Lithium-Ion battery, eCVT and front-wheel drive.

It produces a combined 167kW, has a stated electric range of 56km and possible combined fuel economy of 1.5L/100km.

It can tow 1200kg.

Then, later this year for the Octavia RS (although the Superb PHEV is now available and currently being trialled by the Police) with a 1.4-litre turbo-petrol/ battery pack, with a likely combined total of 160kW and electric range of 60km.

Safety/ Warranties.

Both have lots of driver assist, adaptive cruise/safety features and 5-Star ANCAP ratings. Five-year warranties as well, with unlimited ks for the Escape and 150,000ks for the Octavia.

Finale So, here’s a couple of options for

those with active lifestyles who also really enjoy the drive whilst getting there and back! For me, both this Escape ST-Line and Octavia RS would (in Covid-free times) without doubt for me, deliver so much more enjoyment during, say, a return drive from here to the likes of the Tarras golf course, than would the game to follow.

MOTORING 17

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

Colour infusion A

s one of the most desirable electric vehicles on the market right now, Porsche didn’t need to make the Taycan more appealing to potential buyers, but the German brand has done it anyway.

For 2022, the high-performance EV has been updated with new tech, but most importantly, buyers now get to choose from a bunch of new eye-catching paint options.

Now available with Porsche’s full Paint to Sample scheme, the Taycan can be had in 63 new colour options on top of the EVs standard range of 17.

The one pictured here is finished in Porsche’s classic Rubystone Red. Other epic colours that buyers can choose from including Acid Green, Riviera Blue and Viola Metallic, and other inter-

esting hues from Porsche’s experimental period in the ‘90s.

The less interesting but arguably more important tech updates include the integration of Android Auto into the infotainment system.

Google Assistant voice commands can now be used alongside the Porsche Communication Management here.

A remote parking system is another update for 2022, which will let the Taycan park itself in parallel or perpendicular spaces while the driver controls the car from the outside.

Lastly, the Taycan will now be able to decouple both motors from the wheels via an “electric freewheel” feature.

On top of saving energy, it also reduces load on the motors while the car is coasting.

Adult entertainment star aiming for Bathurst

R

enee Gracie has revealed she plans to spend around $1 million in an effort to make a comeback to the sport she left to pursue a career in adult entertainment.

The former V8 Supercars poster girl said she will use the money to buy her own team, as part of a plan to race at next year’s iconic Bathurst 1000.

Gracie, who retired from the sport at the end of 2017 due to a lack of funding, will use her earnings from adult films to fund a race team, with the goal of achieving a top-10 finish at Mount Panorama.

“I am looking to buy my own team,” Gracie said.

“I get offers every second day to go and race in somebody else’s car.

“There are lots of opportunities and

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options keeping the hope and the dream alive, but I would like to do it myself.”

Gracie is hopeful of lobbying to gain a wildcard entry into Bathurst. The sport gives out between two and four wildcard entries every year, which are usually to rookies, retired legends or as a strategy to attract large crowds.

Gracie raced alongside former Indy Car driver Simona de Silvestro at the

Bathurst feature in 2015 and 2016.

Now cashed up, Gracie argues giving her a wildcard would be just what Supercars needs to revive a “boring” sport.

“I don’t think anyone in Australia would be able to generate the interest that I would attract,” she said. “It would be huge. V8s is pretty boring at the moment – I haven’t been able to get through an entire race this year.”

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18 MOTORING

Living it large T

he latest model to join the GMSV portfolio is almost here, with news that the all-new Chevrolet Silverado Heavy Duty LTZ Premium is due to commence local right-hand drive production in November.

“We’ve enjoyed a huge response to the new Chevrolet Silverado product and, with the impending arrival of the new HD, will have three very different truck propositions to satisfy a huge variety of customer needs and wants,” said Director of GMSV, Joanne Stogiannis.

“We anticipate the key to the success of the new Silverado HD is a commitment to maintain a truck-worthy, torque-rich diesel engine, as it’s a powertrain which has widespread appeal.”

The HD is the biggest Silverado offered

by GMSV and packs a massive 6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel V-8 into the engine bay.

It’s partnered with an all-new 10-speed transmission, delivering one of GM’s toughest drivetrain/powertrain combinations to date.

“The HD is a strong and capable V8-diesel truck and complements the existing models in the lineup, but don’t let its rugged looks deceive you as it’s loaded with safety features and technology-related attributes,” said Ms Stogiannis.

First impressions of the HD are of a bold, sculptured mus-

“

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

We anticipate the key to the success of the new Silverado HD is a commitment to maintain a truck-worthy, torque-rich diesel engine, as it’s a powertrain which has widespread appeal

cular-model loaded with performance potential.

There is a clear family lineage with other Silverado models in the GMSV range evident but, perhaps surprisingly, the roof is the only common panel shared between the three models – every other piece of sheet metal is exclusive to the Silverado HD. To further differentiate the HD from other models in the GMSV range, a fitted-as-standard ‘Appearance Pack’ provides for further personalisation.

Aesthetic enhancements include Body colour Front and Rear bumpers, Black hood vent and lower skid plate, Black belt moulding, Body colour door handles, Black exterior badges, Black bow tie on horn pad, 20” High

gloss Black painted wheels with Black centre caps, Spray-on bed liner and Black Tubular Side Steps.

Ride and handling is enhanced courtesy of a Z71 Off-Road Package, consisting of Off-Road suspension with Rancho™ twin tube shocks, Hill Descent Control, Skid plates finished off with Z71 badge and grille emblem.

Driver comforts.

For the driver, there is a heated leather steering wheel with mounted controls, a Multi-Colour 15” Diagonal Head-Up Display plus an 8” diagonal colour driver information centre.

The driver and front passenger enjoy heated and ventilated leather seats, while dual-zone automatic climate

control and a power sunroof complete the interior.

When towing, additional assistance is provided courtesy of an Advanced Towing Package which features Rear vision camera Hitch Guidance, Hitch View, Integrated Trailer Brake Controller and power extendable external mirrors.

King of cargo.

One of the standout attributes of the new Silverado HD is the sheer size of the cargo area. The tray itself measures 2104mm long, is 1814mm wide and can accommodate 1968 litres of volume.

The level of appointment afforded to the work area is also due special mention.

For example, the Durabed tray combines roll-formed high-strength steel with 12 tiedown points, rated at 127kg per corner.

“One of the thoughtful creature-comforts of the new model is a Power Up and Down tailgate,” said Stogiannis. “The tailgate can be opened or closed one of four ways – using the key fob, pressing a button on the tailgate, a switch via the instrument panel or manually lifting the tailgate 10-centimetres, after which time the power assist takes over.”

The recommended retail price of the MY21 Silverado HD LTZ Premium is $159,990. This includes GST but is exclusive of statutory charges and on-road costs such as dealer-delivery fees.

Classic Japs take centre stage

E

arly Japanese classics lead the way at Shannons Spring Timed Online Auction, with a total of 22 classic and sports motorcycles on offer.

With demand growing for rare Japanese sports motorcycles, Shannons have assembled 10 great examples for online bidders before the auction closes on September 7.

The stand-outs include three beautifully-restored and su-

perbly-presented 1970s Kawasaki 2 stroke triples, a rare 1980 Honda CB1100 RB-1, a model that dominated the 1980 Castrol Six Hour race, along with an iconic early ‘Sandcast’ 1969 Honda 750/4 K0 in superbly-restored condition.

Two collectible Yamahas, three classic BMWs ranging in age from 1953-1984 are complemented by five British motorcycles led by two classic 1937 models – a Norton Model 18 500cc and an AJS V-Twin 37/2 990cc – plus a very rare Italian 1957 Aermacchi Chimera 175cc solo round out the motorcycles in the auction.

Leading the charge is an H2C 750cc 2 stroke triple – a stunning example of Kawasaki’s original superbike with eye-watering

straight-line acceleration, that has covered just 320 miles since a full restoration by marque specialists. Beautifully presented in Candy Purple, the bike was originally sourced in the USA, and is expected to sell in the $26,000-$32,000 range.

For similar money, there is a rare and collectible Australian-delivered 1979 Kawasaki Z1R MkII D3 1000cct.

Hugely collectable is a Sandcast 1969 Honda CB750cc K0 superbike that was discovered by its current owner in the USA and underwent a meticulous restoration in Australia from 2017 in time for the CB750’s big anniversary celebrations in 2019. Offered with ‘no reserve’, it is expected to sell in the $50,000-$60,000 range.

There are also two Yamahas – a rare

1965 YM1 305cc twin two stroke, $8000$10,000) and a low mileage 1969 DS6 250cc two stroke twin – a rare time warp survivor – expected to bring $4000-$6000.

Finally, if you want to stand out from the crowd, there is a rare 1957 Aermacchi Chimera 175cc – one of just 119 produced, whose ‘futuristic’ styling was a step too far for Italians brought up with more traditional Vespas and Lambrettas ($16,000-$20,000).

HERITAGE 19

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

Noel astride his motorcycle in Syria.

Soldiers standing amidst the ruins of Benghazi.

Memories of a dispatch rider

By Connor Lysaght

Noel Wilson

S

A photograph album belonging to Noel was donated to the Ashburton Museum last year by his niece Elaine Bishop, which tells his story in great detail.

Through his camera lens, we can peek back in time and see what he saw.

Noel witnessed bombers screaming overhead en route to El Alamein, the imprisonment of hundreds of Axis soldiers, and scenes of pure desolation as he carried out his duties as a motorcycle dispatch rider.

Outside of the war, Noel had a small dairy herd and was also very keen on racehorses, and was described by his niece who donated his album to the Ashburton Museum as “a tough, wiry little fellow”.

He had his farm on the corner of Boundary Road and Grahams Road, where there was once a blacksmith’s forge which was converted into a stable at some point in time.

Noel reportedly did not talk about the war much, apart from one incident where he rescued two nuns who were hiding under

tories of local servicemen and women never fail to be a continual source of fascination for us at the Ashburton Museum.

Tales from the First and Second World War that revolve around local nurses and soldiers never fail to spark our imagination, helping us to understand their lives and the world they lived in – we are fortunate to be able to share in their highs and their lows, their triumphs and their tragedies, via their letters, diaries, and photograph albums.

In previous Heritage pages we have discussed war stories such as those of Australian nurse Marie Cameron and the sinking of the H.M.T. Marquette, the photograph album of Private Frederick Rogers of Coldstream, and several others over the years – there never seems to be a shortage of stories to tell.

One such story that deserves to be recognised is that of Noel Wilson, who served in the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern theatre during the World War Two.

A snapshot from Bardia in Libya, which was the scene of a major battle that took place from January 3-5, 1941. a bridge, avoiding the gunfire, whom he rode to safety one after the other on his motorbike.

Another brief story is that Noel once fell through a glasshouse while trying to pinch some

grapes in Italy – clearly he had a very funny side to him.

The pictures speak for themselves – here are a selection of interesting photos from Noel Wilson’s precious album which

has been scanned and specially preserved for longevity at the Ashburton Museum.

A big thanks to Elaine Bishop for donating Noel Wilson’s precious photograph album to the Ashburton Museum.

CONTACT Material for this page is coordinated by the Ashburton Museum. Articles from other organisations are welcomed, as is any feedback on what appears.

Email: museum@adc.govt. nz Mail: PO Box 94, Ashburton 7700 Phone: 307-7890

Noel taking in the majestic architecture of Rome.

Allied fighters on road patrol, near Hellfire Pass.

Copies of the photos on this page are available for purchase from the Ashburton Museum

20

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

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FinalWhistle The Guardian’s sports wrap

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

all your sporting news

Mid Cantabrian Braden Currie will take on the best of the best this weekend in the inaugural Collins Cup, a multi-sport event that sees the best from the US, Europe and an International team competing for a cool $2 million.

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22 SPORT

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

Blindside

Mid Canterbury’s leading sports writer Matt Markham

Greatest of all time . . .

Renowned sports journalist and writer, Joseph Romanos set twitter alight when he named his top New Zealand Sportspeople of all time.

Some might see it as a fruitless debate, but the challenge of sitting down and working out a list of sporting superstars

3

THINGS TO DO THIS WEEK

Paralympics There’s so much to watch and enjoy, from Kiwis competing on the biggest stage to all variations of sport. Check is all out on TVNZ’s Duke channel each day.

Warriors Often, when there’s nothing to either lose or gain, the Warriors tend to play quite well. That’s the case this week when they take on Canberra on Sunday afternoon. 1pm Kick-off.

Collins Cup Mid Cantab Braden Currie takes on some of the best in the world in the new Collins Cup for multisport athletes. Watch him in action live from about 1.30am on Sunday morning online, or catch up on the highlights at 3.20pm on Sunday afternoon.

from over the decades is far from meaningless. The inner struggles of settling on a list of say, the greatest 10 sportspeople from New Zealand, will act as a walk down memory lane, and it’s always an interesting debate with friends and family to see who’s there and who’s not.

We’re keen to run a list of who Mid Canterbury people think deserve a place in the greatest 10 Kiwi sportspeople of all time.

So, get the thinking caps on and send us your thoughts.

Email them to matt.m@theguardian. co.nz

I can’t believe I just said that ...

After a tough few weeks, a bit of laughter will never go astray and after the smiles around from last week’s Olympic commentating gaffes, we’ve found a few more sporting related quote mishaps to lighten the mood.

1. “I’ve never had major knee surgery on any other part of my body.”

2. “If history repeats itself, I should think we can expect the same thing again.”

3. “The lead car is absolutely, truly unique, except for the one behind it which is exactly identical to the one in front of the similar one in back.”

4. “Strangely, in slow motion replay, the ball seems to hang in the air for even longer.”

5. “I would not say that David Ginola is the best left winger in the Premiership, but there are none better.”

matt.m@theguardian.co.nz

THE PERFECT 10 Noted sportswriter Joseph Romanos’ top 10 Kiwi sportspeople of all time:

Peter Snell Lisa Carrington Richard Hadlee Richie McCaw Valerie Adams Colin Meads John Walker Hamish Bond and Eric Murray Peter Burling and Blair Tuke Danyon Loader

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

Braden of no fixed abode, for now

SPORT 23

Chance to compete against the best in the world too good to pass up for Currie

Based loosely on golf’s Ryder Cup, the Collins Cup sees Matt 12 athletes, both male and female, from each of the three Markham teams going head-to-head in a matchplay format, where they will swim 1.9km, bike 90km and Mid Cantabrian born and bred athlete run 21.1 km.

Braden Currie had a decision to make, and The individual match-ups are he’s decided to throw caution to the wind. staggered 10 minutes apart, with With this year’s World Ironman points allocated for each individual Championships thrown to the wayside and race which count towards the overall postponed until early in 2022, Currie, who team points from which a winning grew up in Methven, but is now based in side will be found.

Wanaka, jetted out for Europe this At the official draft for the event, week, where he will take Currie was selected in part in a new-multisport the 11th match-up for We are 100 per cent reliant on sponsorship the International side, competition which carries a juicy $2 million in prize and will compete and prizemoney, that’s how we fund life money. against Europe’s But while the lure of the and what we do and that’s how we afford to Patrick Lange mighty dollar is a tough and USA’s Matt live. The sponsors expect to get a certain one to wrestle with, the Hanson. uncertainty of just when It’s Currie’s first amount of exposure he might make it back global event for home to his wife, Sally almost two years, and their two children post the event crebut this year locally he won vouchers who aren’t dependent children of ated plenty of question marks.

Ironman NZ in Taupo and partners, because it may lead to vouchers Originally the game plan was to fly to finished second in both Chalbeing traded, and risk the integrity of the Europe from the family’s temporary base system. lenge Wanaka and the Port in Noosa, Australia, where Currie does a lot “They’re (Currie’s children) at an age Tauranga Half Marathon. of his training blocks before major events, they understand it, and they fully support The Collins Cup is held and then head onto Maui to complete his it, but it’s just the fear right now it isn’t overnight tonight, with men’s preparation for the World Championships till Christmas, or even next year that I get racing action kicking off in Kona, but in the space of a few days – home to see them again.” around 1am New Zealand everything changed – the postponement Currie’s wife Sally is working hard behind time, which should see of the world champs in Kona the major the scenes to try and secure her husband Currie kicking off his race stumbling block. a spot in MIQ as early as possible, in the around 1.40am.

Now Currie isn’t sure when he’ll see hope an opportunity arises that they can his family again, but he also knows that leap at the chance to take. if he doesn’t get back out competing the Currie arrived in Slovakia this week possibility of retirement would be high on for the Collins Cup, a new format team the agenda. competition established by the Profession“It’s what drives me, to race the very al Triathlon Organisation, which pits the best guys in the world in the best events best athletes from the USA, Europe and an in the world, and if I don’t have that then International team against each other in a I would probably choose to retire right head-to-head battle for supremacy. now,” Currie Ranked No.6 in the PTO ranking, Currie was selected for the inaugural event as an automatic qualifier. explained to media this week.

“We are 100 per cent reliant on sponsorship and prizemoney, that’s how we fund life and what we do and that’s how we afford to live.

“The sponsors expect to get a certain amount of exposure.”

Leaving his family behind, and not knowing exactly when he’ll see them again was tough – but made even tougher when a solution was found to the problem, but was then shut down by the government.

A fellow Kiwi athlete offered Currie a spot in his room in MIQ – but MBIE don’t allow people to add others to existing

“

The Collins Cup Athletes from three teams; USA, Europe and Team International, will battle against one another in an individual drafted race of three competitors. 12 separate races, each staggered 10 minutes apart with points awarded from each contest to decide the overall winning team with $2 million in prize money up for grabs.

Each match consists of a 1.9km, swim, a 90km bike ride and a 21.1km run.

24 SPORT

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

Allenton to join Tech in South Canty cricket comp Matt Markham Cricket in Mid Canterbury is extending it’s reach into South Canterbury, with a second senior side set to join the competition for the upcoming season.

The Allenton Cricket Club will field a side in this year’s South Canterbury competitions, including their T20 window, joining fellow locals Tech Stags.

It’s a positive move forward for the Allenton side, who finished runners-up in last season’s Canterbury Country Cricket Combined competition, but were desperate to be a part of the longer format of the game and test themselves further in a competition far superior to that which they were in.

With dwindling numbers at a senior playing level locally in recent years, Tech also began in the Canterbury Country Competition before shifting south to take on the senior sides from

Rep season November 14 Ron Biggar Memorial

match between Mid Canty and South Canty, 50 over one-day game at Ashburton Oval November 21 Mid Canty v Canterbury Country Emerging Players – Mainpower Oval, Rangiora December 11-12 Hawke Cup Mid Canty v South Cant – Aorangi Oval, Timaru January 15-16 2022 – Hawke Cup Mid Canty v Southland, Ashburton Oval, Ashburton January 29-30 2022 – Hawke Cup Mid Cant v Otago Country, Molyneux Park, Alexandra February 26-27 2022 – Hawke Cup Mid Canty v North Otago, Ashburton Oval, Ashburton

Hockey on hold for yet another week

By Matt Markham

matt.m@theguardian.co.nz

The Allenton Senior cricket side will swap the whites for colours when they step into the South Canterbury senior cricket competition in the coming season.

PHOTO MATT MARKHAM 170321-MM-002

south of the Rangitata River.

Allenton made noises about their desire to be a part of the competition throughout the middle of last season, and the withdrawal of a team during the season opened the window, which they have jumped in with great enthusiasm.

The change-up for the Allenton side is just one of a number of things happening in the cricket sphere at the moment, as Mid Canterbury cricket gears up for what should be a bumper summer on pitches around the district.

A real emphasis continues to be placed on the junior side of the game, with more information around competitions dates and structure set to be announced in the coming weeks.

The popular mid-week senior competition, held on Wednesday nights in the shorter format of the game, will return, with teams for that competition still being confirmed.

As well as club cricket, there’s also plenty of movement in the representative realm as well.

At the junior level, Ashburton will

host the Latham Festival for Year 9 and 10 players in December, which will see eight teams competing and under the new Balance is Better philosophy, two Under 15 district teams are likely to again wear the green and gold this season.

The Mid Canterbury Hawke Cup side has its season mapped out as well, and will return to their home venue of the Ashburton Oval with matches recently being played in Timaru.

Mid Canterbury begin their season with a 50-over one-day match against South Canterbury for the Ron Biggar Memorial on November 14, before a second pre-season fixture against Canterbury Country Emerging Players at Mainpower Oval in Rangiora on November 21.

Their Hawke Cup campaign begins against neighbours, South Canterbury in Timaru on December 11-12 – one of two trips away for the side, the other a match against Otago Country in Alexandra.

They play Southland and North Otago at the Ashburton Oval as well.

The sport of hockey remains stagnant across the country this weekend, with Alert Level 2 required before competitions can resume and be completed for the current season.

New Zealand Hockey announced earlier this week that all hockey across New Zealand was off until Sunday night at the earliest, while officials continue to pore through the calendars and find alternate dates for matches that are still to be played.

In Mid Canterbury there’s still two weeks of Division 2 hockey to be completed and just the one week of Division One, with Mid Canterbury Hockey remaining confident of being able to fulfil those requirements once New Zealand has moved down the Alert Levels.

Also impacted is the Mid Canterbury Men’s senior side who are awaiting the chance to shoot for glory in the Canterbury Hockey Division One competition having made the final earlier in the month.

Canterbury Hockey boss, Shane Maddaford said that his organisation was working hard to try and make all outstanding fixtures viable when possible.

“Our intention is to fulfill those matches, we just need to understand where we can slot that into the calendar for the remainder of the year,” he said.

“We will understand more of that in the coming week and communicate it.”

Maddaford said that high on the list of priorities when deciding on dates and possible outcomes for competitions was the safety and well-being of the wider Canterbury hockey playing community.

“They key point there is ensuring that the teams have adequate preparation for that final match, player welfare and safety is going to paramount.”

A number of Canterbury based, including Mid Canterbury sides, were due to be heading away for various tournaments and events over the coming weeks, but all with the exception of the National Secondary Schools Tournament and the AIMS Game have been postponed.

Both of those events have officially been cancelled for 2021.

PARALYMPICS

Wheel Blacks drop out Matt Markham Dreams of a Paralympic medal have been dashed for Mid Canterbury’s Mike Todd and the New Zealand Wheel Blacks.

Two losses in the opening two matches of their campaign have resulted in defeat for the side, and with a match still to play late last night, any hopes of gunning for a medal over the course of the weekend have disappeared.

A tough loss in their opening match against the United States, their first Paralympic appearance in eight years after missing out on the last two games, began the campaign.

They were beaten by 63-35 by the US, but went into Thursday night’s clash against Great Britain with high hopes of being able to turn things around.

A sluggish start in which the Brits

Two losses to open their Paralympic campaign have left the Wheel Blacks out of contention for a medal. opened up the scoreline early saw the Kiwi side struggling to gain any momentum on the court, with passes not finding a player and a number of

possessions squandered, largely with thanks to some energetic Great Britain defence.

Down 5-17 at the end of the first quarter, things looked grim.

A stronger second quarter eased the frustrations of the first, but the Kiwi side were unable to match up to their opponents who went on to win the match 60-37.

“I had a lot of fun today. We found the first quarter a little bit tough and we were a bit shocked,” captain, Cory Everson said.

“But I think when we got into that huddle to come out for the second quarter we were positive, we said we were going keep our eyes up, stay confident.

“I think we did that and we were a lot better side from the second quarter.”

The side was set to play the World No.2 team, Canada late last night – but with no possibility of making the medal race, their attention will now turn to a classification match today which will determine their final ranking.

Kiwis in action Saturday August 28

2.30pm-7pm - Wheelchair rugby - Wheel Blacks - classification matches 10.21pm - Para athletics - Lisa Adams - Women’s Shot Put - F37 final 10.21pm - Para athletics - Caitlin Dore - Women’s Shot Put - F37 final 11.26pm - Para athletics - Danielle Aitchison - Women’s 200m - T36 Round 1 heats

Sunday August 29

3.10pm - Para athletics - Danielle Aitchison - Women’s 200m - T36 final *

Monday August 30

4.15pm - Shooting Para sport - Michael Johnson - R4 - Mixed 10m Air Rifle Standing SH2 Qualification 6.45pm - Shooting Para sport - Michael Johnson - R4 - Mixed 10m Air Rifle Standing SH2 finals * 12.14pm - Para swimming - Jesse Reynolds - Men’s 100m Backstroke S9 heats 12.20pm - Para swimming - Sophie Pascoe - Women’s 100m Backstroke - S9 heats 8.14pm - Para swimming - Jesse Reynolds - Men’s 100m Backstroke - S9 final * 8.21pm - Para swimming - Sophie Pascoe - Women’s 100m Backstroke - S9 final * 10.14pm - Para athletics - William Stedman - Men’s Long Jump - T36 final * if qualified

SPORT 25

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

Superb result after last-minute entry

Scott Robertson in discussion with Crusaders skipper Sam Whitelock.

Razor reflects Ian Foster’s re-signing as All Blacks head coach this week confirmed the next, pivotal juncture in Scott Robertson’s coaching career will be the 2023 World Cup. New Zealand Rugby handed Foster a two-year contract extension on Tuesday to end any chance of Robertson assuming the coveted All Blacks job before the next World Cup in France.

While Robertson committed to the Crusaders through to 2024 in July he had a clause to contest the All Blacks position if it became available this year.

Robertson has a similar out in 2023 that also allows him to explore all options, including international and club positions abroad.

By 2023, Robertson will have coached the Crusaders for seven years and it, therefore, makes sense to consider his pathway.

Foster was reappointed after locking away the Bledisloe Cup with a record win over the Wallabies at Eden Park. In a challenging climate he holds a 73 per cent win record as All Blacks head coach with eight victories, two losses and one draw.

The All Blacks will spend the next 14 weeks away from home – a

timeframe that includes 12 tests in six countries.

Robertson, speaking for the first time since Foster’s reappointment, was philosophical about NZ Rugby’s decision to act now.

After missing out to Foster last year, following the All Blacks’ World Cup semi-final defeat to England, he always knew a change of heart from the board was unlikely.

“NZ Rugby think he is the man for the job and they’ve given him an early call to go on and win a World Cup. We’ll get in behind and support him,” Robertson said. “It’s a results-based game, we know that. In high performance sport you’re constantly reviewed and judged. That’s part of our positions.

“For me, I was well aware with signing my contract that this could happen. They were never clear when it was going to be but they’ve made the call. I’ve got security for myself and my family.”

Foster’s reappointment cements Robertson’s focus for the next two years on the Crusaders and attempting to build on his remarkable record of delivering five Super Rugby titles in as many years, but he admits the next big decision on his future will come in 2023.

The other part of the equation from an All Blacks perspective is whether NZ Rugby again favours promoting from within.

“I’m working really hard at mastering my craft as a coach so the next two years is a big opportunity for me to get better for whatever opportunity comes up,” Robertson said.

“Time comes round quick and we’re going to have to make another decision with what’s right for my career moving forward. It will come down to the Rugby World Cup. That’s top of the job description with the All Blacks to win it.

“You wish Ian all the best. That’s high performance sport and you plan for all the opportunities in front of you.

“My role is to create an environment that the boys love and perform. My focus has always been on the Crusaders and if the opportunity came up with the All Blacks then great that would be my focus.

“I’ve got an incredible organisation, coaching and management to work with and the playing group is world-class so that’s exciting in itself.

“It’s easy to focus on once you realise they’ve made a call.”

New Zealand’s greatest Paralympian Sophie Pascoe, who claimed her 16th medal on Thursday night in Tokyo, says her latest achievement was “unexpected”.

Pascoe took out silver in the women’s SB8 100m breaststroke, with Ireland’s Ellen Keane narrowly beating the 28-year-old Kiwi to take gold.

While Pascoe was disappointed not to win her first event of the Games, she revealed after the race that she wasn’t even planning on competing in the 100m breaststroke.

She said she was ecstatic to make it on the podium in her least favoured event in Tokyo – and she came very close to taking out the top prize.

“I’m extremely ecstatic,” Pascoe said.

“Originally I wasn’t even going to come into this meet, doing the 100 breaststroke. It was a last minute entry. The reasoning behind it was to get myself into race mode before my four favourite events, which is coming up in the next two days’ time.”

Pascoe emerged first from the water in the final and was in the lead after the first 50 metres, but was soon caught by Keane, a breaststroke specialist.

The Irishwoman ultimately pipped Pascoe at the finish by 0.39 seconds to claim gold with a time of 1:19.93 at the Tokyo Aquatics Centre.

Sophie Pascoe “I came in ranked third, breaststroke is not my favourite event, it’s Ellen’s favoured,” Pascoe said.

“All power to her, she got me in that last 10 metres. That’s where it really hurt and I gave it absolutely everything.

“I tapped into that in a mental mindset but obviously it just wasn’t enough to get the gold.

“Like I said, I’m stoked to get a silver medal at the Paralympics in Tokyo that I never thought I was going to get. This was an unexpected race and it was an unexpected result so I am super, super stoked.

“It’s a silver medal for my country and I’m going to stand up on that podium with pride. But I gave it absolutely everything.”

Pascoe will now prepare for a busy week ahead, with her next four races coming on consecutive days.

The Kiwi’s build-up for these Games has been severely hampered, and she counted even reaching the startline as a good achievement after fighting off doubts about her involvement when the Paralympics were postponed 12 months ago.

Pascoe had been unable to race in any international warmup events, last competing overseas in 2019, and she hadn’t lined up at a competitive swim meet since the national championships in April.

She will have four more chances to add to her incredible medal tally, the first of which will come in the S9 100m backstroke on Monday where she will be gunning for her 10th Paralympics gold.

NETBALL

Roses will give Ferns stern examination The Silver Ferns will come up against a stronger England side than the one they met in October last year, but some big names will still be missing when the teams meet next month.

The Silver Ferns will host the Roses in a three-test Cadbury Netball Series, with all matches to be played at Christchurch Arena, to minimise additional travel risk.

The first test is scheduled for September 20, as Netball New Zealand continues to work with the government around the evolving Covid-19 outbreak and alert levels.

Following the series England, who are ranked third in the world, plan to extend their tour across the Tasman with matches against the Australian Diamonds.

Fifteen players have been selected to play in New Zealand, but star shooters Joanne Harten

and Helen Housby won’t feature again in this series.

The pair are playing on opposite sides in Australia’s Super Netball grand final this weekend, along with the experienced Natalie Haythornthwaite.

George Fisher, who had a stand-out first season in the ANZ Premiership for the Southern Steel this year, will get plenty of court time for the Roses. It’s an excellent opportunity for Fisher to push her case for a starting spot for the Roses, even when Housby and Harten return.

Shooters Eleanor Cardwell and Sophie Drakeford-Lewis also impressed in last year’s Taini Jamison Series and have been named again.

A huge boost to the side is veteran Geva Mentor, one of the world’s finest goal keepers, who finished her Super Netball season a couple of weeks ago.

Defender Layla Guscoth also

makes a welcome return.

After a long road back from an ACL injury, Beth Cobden has returned to the Roses on the back of a brilliant domestic campaign in the UK, where she was named Player of the Season.

Two of the world’s most capped internationals Serena Guthrie and Jade Clarke, will again provide plenty of experience, while fellow midcourter Laura Malcolm is back again after impressing as co-captain with Guthrie in last year’s Taini Jamison series in Hamilton.

The Silver Ferns might have even less time together as a team, depending on Covid alert levels.

A number of key players are also based in Auckland, a focal point of the current outbreak.

With the Commonwealth Games less than a year away, both nations are keen for some competition.

The Silver Ferns and the England Roses will clash again next month.

26 SPORT

WeeklyWorkout

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

Exercise your grey cells with our weekly sports crossword and quiz

Sportsword 1 First All Black back to reach

100-Tests milestone (8) 5 Crusaders All Black lock giant 2013-17 (4) 7 Kiwi league legend nicknamed “The Beast”, Kevin -- (3) 8 Name of method used to revise target score in limitedovers cricket, -- -Lewis (9) 9 Former All Black strongman, -- McDowell (5) 11 English referee played controversial role in All Blacks’ shock 2007 World Cup quarter-final exit (6) 13 Hurricanes All Black lock 2013-15 (6) 15 2011 World Cup-winning All Blacks’ “accidental hero” (6) 17 Winner 1959 Wellington Cup, -- Royal (3) 19 Prolific try-scoring All Black winger 2003-20 (8) 20 Cricket extras, abbrev (2) 22 British and Irish Lions’ former Chiefs midfielder, -- Aki (6) 24 Former All Blacks scrum guru, Mike -- (4) 26 Celebrated All Black utility back 1955-63, Pat -- (5) 27 Kiwi surprise packet matched 3 down’s effort with Tokyo men’s omnium silver (7)

Down 1 Coached All Blacks to 1995

World Cup final (5) 2 – forward (5) 3 Kiwi track cycling whiz won Tokyo Olympics women’s keirin silver medal (7)

© Copyright Peter Thomson 2021 1

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3. How many points is a field goal worth in an NFL match?

a) Three b) Two c) One

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Hall of Famer, Ron -- (7) 5 Legendary Taranaki fiveeighth/centre, Ross -- (5) 6 Qatar’s capital city scheduled to host 2022 football World Cup final (4) 10 Pakistan-born South African spinner, Imran -- (5) 12 All Black centre early 1980s also represented his native England (6) 14 Stephen Moore’s successor as Wallabies captain (6) 16 Kiwi rugby league prop emerged 1960s, -- Danielson (5) 18 Wallabies Hall of Fame halfback, -- Catchpole (3) 21 Manchester United’s Irish

EMAIL trudgeonnz@ gmail.com

4. At 13,632 – who has conceded the most runs in men’s One Day Internation history?

a) Sanath Jayasuriya b) Muttiah Muralitharan c) Shahid Afridi

25

5. Undisputed Truth is a 2013 memoir about what famous boxer?

27

4 Auckland rugby league

MOBILE 0274 332 259

a) Bolivia b) Chile c) Uruguay

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football genius 1960s-70s (4) 22 Rowing crew position (3) 23 Dual Australia-NZ rugby international, -- Connor (3) 24 Cricket shot (3) 25 US men’s basketball competition, abbrev (3)

Solution No 68 C O L L I N S

O H E N B O A O AM T AW E L E R E M I A E S A V E A H R D B C R O S B Y H U M E X T E D R I G A K Y L E E

A R R A R R I D B E R A N S I C A K S Y D I A T A Y

Selection of previous puzzles available as printable PDFs Email: peter@sportswordcentral.com

PH 03 308 8432

2. Which country has never won a medal at a Summer Olympics?

12

20 22

1. How old was Sophie Pascoe when she competed at her first paralympics?

a) 14 b) 15 c) 16

8

13

17

4

SPORTS QUIZ

E T T R F I C A A L E E N N P D E L A N E Y E L O R

a) Mike Tyson b) Evander Holyfield c) Lennox Lewis 6. 1983 Melbourne Cup winner, Kiwi was trained by whom?

a) Trevor McKee b) Snow Lupton c) Frank Ritchie 7. Anthony Mosse swam for New Zealand at two Olympics, specialising in what discipline?

a) Butterfly b) Breastroke c) Freestyle 8. What even did a New Zealand team win for the first time in 1995?

a) Davis Cup b) Rugby League World Cup c) America’s Cup Answers: 1. b) 15, 2. a) Bolivia, 3. c) One. 4. c) Shahid Afridi, 5. a) Mike Tyson, 6. b) Snow Lupton, 7. a) Butterfly, 8. c) America’s Cup

Across

No 69

PUZZLES 27

Puzzles and horoscopes

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

Cryptic crossword 1

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Simon Shuker’s Code Cracker

Your Stars

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ACROSS 1. One’s critical faculty recent minds are turned to (11) 8. Claud is one who might do himself in (8) 9. A funny story in half-jest is all right (4) 10. Being first a drinker, show one’s embarrassment (5) 13. You twice fail to finish a toy with its ups and downs (2-2) 16. Conversation held in a hospital kitchen (4) 17. Hellenic god who came back from Suez (4) 18. The ‘food’ one consumes (4) 20. Set out with the Navy at the back of the craft (5) 24. Get dressed in the old way and get weary (4) 25. Plants use them to climb out of lid with 20 (8) 26. The feeling Capone had was highly dramatic (11) DOWN 2. The rainbow goddess coloured in the eye (4) 3. At church with the sick, the cold will make one shiver (5) 4. Is studying Asian capital among the communists (5) 5. Take pleasure in New York with Joe anyhow (5) 6. Selections of different kinds of nets − so smart! (11) 7. Cruel about the code? Not so much! (11) 11. Impulses revealed by our gestures (5) 12. Healthy when about five, but must split in two (5) 14. Start the innings by being exposed (4) 15. One not house proud will lust after change (4) 19. Some wool starts eruption in the derm (5) 21. How to deal with a free excursion (5) 22. Cowboy contest, or ode composed on it (5) 23. Endorsement on passport to South Africa after six (4)

WordWheel

WordBuilder

Insert the missing letter to complete an eight-letter word reading clockwise or anti-clockwise.

WordWheel 925

R E E ?

Quick crossword 1

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Insert the missing letter to complete an or anticlockwise. Previous solution: CATACOMB

eight-letter word reading clockwise Previous solution: CATACOMB

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140

140

How many words of three or more letters, including plurals, can you make from the five letters, using each letter only once? No foreign words or words beginning with a capital are allowed.

There’s at least one five-letter word.

How many words of three or more Good 13 Very Good 17 Excellent 21 letters, including plurals, can you make from the five letters, using each letter only once? No foreign words or words beginning with a capital are allowed.

There’s at least one five-letter word. are,Excellent art, ate, ear, Previous solution: Good 13 Very Good 17 21 eat, era, eta, rat, rate, ret, tar, tare, tart, tat, tater, tea, tear, teat, tetra, treat, tret

N D E R

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WordBuilder I N A WordBuilder S T I N A S T

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www.thepuzzlecompany.co.nz 19

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19/2

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Sudoku 23

Across 7. Scab (6-7) 8. Hiding place (8) 9. Bowed (4) 10. Make a mistake (4,2) 12. Rectangular (6) 14. Edge (3) 15. Immediately (colloq) (6) 17. Severe telling-off (6) 19. Marine measure of speed (4) 21. Defamed (8) 23. Exclude from a church (13)

3 6 4 7 3 9 1 8

1 3 5 6 3 2 1 8 7 2 4 1 9

4 3 7

Previous cryptic solution

Across: 1. Semitone 4. Grab 8. Dot 9. Radio 10. Vow 11. Uplifts 12. Norse 13. Interviewer 17. Octet 18. Private 20. Owl 21. Vying 22. Use 23. Ease 24. Delivers Down: 1. Sodium 2. Motel 3. Nudes 5. Reverse 6. Bowler 4 7. Countering 9. Reflective 14. Nettles915. Morose 3 16. Recess 18. Prime 19. Acute

Previous quick solution6 4

5

6 7 3 1 8

3 6

2 9

5 8 4

1 7 3

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2 8

7 4 1 9

Kim Miller 8 5 7 6 2 3 4 9 1

9 4 3 1 7 5 8 2 6

1 2 4 3 5 9 6 7 8

3 8 5 7 6 2 1 4 9

6 7 9 4 8 1 3 5 2

5 HARD

MEDIUM

2 6 1 8 9 4 5 3 7

3 8

Across: 1. Charisma 7. Droll 8. Lost cause79. Oat 10. Silt 11. Steins 13. Precipitation 15.

3Detach 8 16.4Epic618. War 20. Rear-ended 21. Singe 22. Unbiased 3 chain Down: 1. Cells 2. Absolve 3. Inch 4. Mountain 5. Hobos 6. Elation 7. Decimal 12. Mixture113.3Prowess 14. Impedes 15. Drunk 17. Ceded 5 919. Semi 7 1

Fill the grid so that every column, every row and 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

2 Down 1. Pushchair (8) 2. Circus tent (3,3) 3. Protagonist (4) 4. Very unpleasant (8) 5. Frolic (6) 6. Thin (4) 11. Troubles (8) 13. Sicken (8) 16. Idea (6) 18. Outdated objects (6) 20. Immediately following (4) 22. Curve (4)

Previous solution: are, art, ate, ear, eat, era, eta, rat, rate, ret, tar, tare, tart, tat, tater, tea, tear, teat, tetra, treat, tret

ARIES (Mar 21-Apr 19): You want to know that someone has your back and is willing and able to enter into the spirit of what you’re doing to some extent, however pleasant or unpleasant that may be. So you test, and quite expertly!

TAURUS (Apr 20-May 20): The Spanish tradition of relaxing after a heavy meal and talking for an hour or so is called sobremesa. Your day offers a similar opportunity to bond and share.

GEMINI (May 21-Jun 21): Various lessons will be imparted, some seemingly more useful than others. Take note, regardless, to accommodate unforeseeable applications that will surely arise in the far-flung future.

CANCER (Jun 22-Jul 22): Just when you think you know where everything belongs, there’s a cat on a pedestrian crossing; the silhouette of a mouse in a high rise, or, in today’s case, the non-animal equivalent of these things.

LEO (Jul 23-Aug 22): Though it might be convenient to be better and more widely understood, you’re not willing to trade validation for your right to complexity. So those enigmatic parts of you remain, mysterious to all, even to yourself.

VIRGO (Aug 23-Sep 22): When it’s your game, you’re allowed to write rules, name prizes and dole out hints. The most popular and enjoyable games tend to, once established, stay consistent within their own limitations.

LIBRA (Sep 23-Oct 23): The innocence you once had will not return. In its place is a custom-made sword and shield, which you will use to defend the innocence of others, as you understand its preciousness more than anyone.

SCORPIO (Oct 24-Nov 21): You suspect someone is trying to live vicariously through you. It’s not a terrible dynamic, as you are loved, tended to and supported, though sometimes held with too firm a grip.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22-Dec 21): In a tweet, author Anand Giridharadas writes, “We are falling on our face because we are jumping high.”

You’ve recently fallen... for a good cause.

Today’s risk will be temperate and graceful.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22-Jan 19): Each emotion has its preferred animation style. Joy jumps.

Melancholy settles. Jealousy creeps. Today, you may have feelings you can’t name, but track their movement and it will come to you.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20-Feb 18): Many who seek attention are also looking for validation. You need people who want what you offer. You focus not on showing off but on showing enough so that you can find your right audience.

PISCES (Feb 19-Mar 20): Being where the conversation goes down is an initiation of sorts. All who witness are influenced and all who weren’t there are outsiders on the matter. It’s why you make an effort to be involved.

9 2 5 8 6 7 3 4 1 5 7 4 8 White 4 7Mid5Canterbury 1 3 6for 9 3Meet 9 Kim 1 Miller, owner of Ray one 2 year. specialist for 12 years,1 a Mum of two for423 9 years and living 6 3 2 8 5 7 2Sales 8 6 her best life for 52 years. Kim’s positive and professional approach is 7 6 team, 4 Kim 3 is5always 1 8getting 9 the 9infectious, 5 2 and along with her2talented best results for her clients.

4 5 1 9 7 8 2 3 6 1 4 3 3 9 8 1 2 6 5 7 4 80276236 7 8627 • kim.miller@raywhite.com Ashburton • Tinwald • Methven • rwashburton.co.nz 6 3 9 •703 307 5 8317 2 4 1 8 7 2 9 5 8 4 6 9 1 7 2 3 6 1 8 7 1 2 3 8 4 9 6 5 4 3 5

2 4 1 6

5

4

6

PREVIOUS SOLUTIONS 7 2 8 6 9 3 3 7 45 5 1

3 9 38 57 1 9 42 7 92 2 4 7 8 8 5 4 1 6 3 7 8 61 9 2 6 6 3 5

7 4 5 1 1 6 9 3 8 8 2

1 4 5 62 3 7 3 8 9 8 5 6 7 2 9 1 5 2 14 9 6 2 7 1 3 4 7 8

6 2 1 3 7 8 35 4 9

2 9 7 1 6 3 4 5 8

4 5 6 7 2 8 9 1 3

1 6 8 2 5 7 3 9 4

9 7 4 8 3 6 1 2 5

5 8 1 3 4 9 2 7 6

8 1 3 4 9 5 7 6 2

3 2 5 9 1 4 6 8 7

6 4 9 5 7 2 8 3 1

7 3 2 6 8 1 5 4 9

Real Estate Mid Canterbury Property Limited Licensed (REAA 2008)

6 2 6 3 1 7 8 5 8

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28

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

Trades&Services Advertising

To place a Trades & Services ad, call 307-7900 or email classifieds@theguardian.co.nz

TALBOT SECURITY GROUP

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Mobile Mower servicing • Rotary Mowers • Ride-on Mowers • Water Blasters • Small Motor Repairs

• Reel Mowers • Chainsaws • Rotary Hoes • Generators

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Ph 307 0002 - Mobile 021 88 34 36

Let’s start the conversation call 0800 764 846 455 West Street, Ashburton Email: ashburton@smith-sons.co.nz or visit: smithandsons.co.nz

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electriCOOL Ltd Phone Paul Crequer, your local authorised Daikin dealer for a free quote on all domestic and commercial systems phone 0274 362 362 or 308 4573.

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CLASSIFIEDS 29

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

SITUATIONS VACANT

Did you know the Ashburton App is Did you know the Ashburton App is free and easy to download? free and easy to download?

SITUATIONS VACANT

Hakatere Multicultural Council Coordinator

General Manager Position Pluck’s Engineering Ltd is an agricultural engineering business based in rural mid-Canterbury, we are specialists in farm machinery. Have been in business since 1966. With 15 staff we manufacture and repair of a large range of agricultural machinery as well as producing a significant range of dairy effluent products, our products are respected and sold all throughout NZ. Plucks Engineering is a privately owned company who pride themselves on their quality workmanship through our Skilled Staff while still providing value to customers. We are a LEAN manufacturing-based business and are very proud of our Health and Safety systems that always ensure staff safety. In addition, we continue to drive the research and development side of the business, with an eye on the future of farming, manufacturing what our customers want now and looking ahead to what sort of equipment they might need in the future.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced and motivated manager with experience in the engineering/agricultural industry to join our team. Planning, developing, and managing our business activities to achieve the desired business strategy and financial performance is the overall objective of the role.

You will also be involved in: • • • • • • •

Building strong relationships with Pluck’s key customers, proactively driving the sales team’s performance and customer service activities Business planning and reporting, translating the company’s business plan and goals into action Monitoring business trends for future opportunities Improving operational systems, processes, and policies to support company growth Having a strategic focus on revenue and on stock levels, ensuring that people and resources are available Overseeing and liaising with internal senior staff including, Production, Technical, Project management, R&D, Sales and Admin.

Managing and working with company HR, IT and Finance support services

You can can download download the the Ashburton Ashburton App App onto on toyour You your smartphone or tablet. smartphone or tablet.

Safer Mid-Canterbury, Ashburton Hours: 37.5 hour per week

11

Visit the App Store for iPhone or Play Store for Android.

Visit the App Store for iPhone or Play Store for Android.

The Hakatere Multicultural Council is looking for someone who is passionate about celebrating the rich cultural diversity of our Mid Canterbury district. This role will involve engaging with many people from various cultural backgrounds and situations. If you are a good networker, highly sociable, enjoy new experiences, and enjoy assisting and supporting people this could be your perfect job.

We are looking for applicants with the following key attributes: • Ability to effectively communicate with a wide range of people or different ethnicities • Well-developed verbal and written communication skills • An interest, passion and commitment to supporting both newcomers and migrants in our community • Confident in a variety of cultural and social situations • Enjoy learning new things and meeting lots of new people • Excellent interpersonal skills • Excellent organisation, record keeping and time management skills • Computer literate, and familiar with Microsoft Word, Excel and Facebook • Ability to work autonomously • Experience in working with ethnic communities • Knowledge and understanding of the principals of the Treaty of Waitangi • Hold a current motor vehicle drivers licence To read job description and download application form go to www.safermidcanterbury.org.nz careers page.

Applications close Friday 3rd September 2021 For further question’s please contact Ani Koperu on 03 308 1395.

App Store Play Store App Store Play Store

The Ashburton Ashburton App App The

22

Click GET GET to to Download Download Click

GET GET

33

Icon will will appear appear on on Icon your home screen your home screen

44

iPhone/iPad iPhone/iPad

Android Phone/Tablet Android Phone/Tablet

OpenFamily Ashburton App Click Notices

55

... and enjoy news, weather, things to do and so much more at the touch of a fingertip!

About you You will have proven management experience with a track record of success – preferably in the engineering/agricultural sector. You will have the ability to communicate effectively and identify key result areas, as well as how to achieve the desired results for the company. And, importantly, you will have management values that match those of Pluck’s Engineering: • • • • • •

Workmanship Quality & Value LEAN Health & Safety Community Commitment High personal integrity and productivity

Tractor Driver Required

B & W Lowe Contracting Ltd are currently seeking triple mower conditioner operators for the 2021-2022 silage season.

Why work for Plucks?

Plucks care about their team and they provide stable employment, competitive remuneration and safe working conditions. They also strive to offer opportunities for training and advancement. Plucks are also an active part of their local community and enjoy providing support locally.

This role is wonderful opportunity for an energetic and commercially astute manager who is passionate about the manufacturing sector and who thrives on creating high performing teams. Please apply now by emailing Neil Pluck - neil@plucks.co.nz

SITUATIONS VACANT

Applicants must: -Be honest, reliable and conscientious -Have relevant machinery experience -Be capable of working unsupervised Please email us for an application form:

williamlowe@farmside.co.nz

LIVESTOCK, PETS

CLEARING SALE A/C Croziers Turkeys, Ashburton QUALIFIED DISPENSARY TECHNICIAN

We have an exciting opportunity for a qualified dispensary technician, although we would be willing to train the right applicant.

We are a small supportive pharmacy group. If you consider yourself a team player, and you are determined to deliver outstanding service, please send your CV and cover letter to Sean or Carolyn by email to office@allentonpharmacy.co.nz

L A U ANNERAL GEN

SITUATIONS VACANT

Sale postponed from Friday 27th August due to Covid-19 and has been rescheduled for Friday 10th September, subject to alert levels.

Further information to follow on Saturday 4th September or at www.hazlett.nz “what’s on”.

Further enquiries: Marty Amos (Agent) 027 462 0122 Phil Crozier (Vendor) 027 432 7507

Lifestyle CONNECTIONS

Rakaia ANZAC

LE

$

Annual General Meeting

P

AM

20

+ GST

Tuesday, March 29 at 7.30pm St Andrews Presbyterian Church Hall

S

4cm x 1 column

All are welcome

Mid Canterbury Dog Training Club Inc

E L P

Annual General Meeting

M A S

Wednesday, April 27, 7.30pm A&P Showgrounds meeting room

All members welcome

To advertise in AGM phone Classifieds

03 307 7900

ASHBURTON LEARNING CENTRE Do you need help with:

Learning English as a second language?

Your apprenticeship paperwork?

With reading, writing or maths?

Developing your computer skills?

Check out our courses now!

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Contact the Centre Phone 308 5322 Corner Park and Havelock Street, Ashburton

30 CLASSIFIEDS

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

Public Notice

Public Notice

Proposal to close road(s) to vehicular traffic PROPOSAL TO CLOSE ROAD(S) TO VEHICULAR TRAFFIC Ashburton District Council gives public notice of a proposal to temporarily close roads to ordinary vehicle traffic to enable the holding of a community event – Gravel Bent Sprint Meeting.

Roads proposed to be closed: • LE BRETONS ROAD, from Christys Road intersection • LE BRETONS ROAD, from Denshires Road South intersection • CHERTSEY ROAD, from Le Bretons Road intersection for 2 kilometres Period of Closure: From 8.30am to 5.30pm on Saturday, 03 October 2021 Detours will be available on adjacent roads and these will be signposted.

This proposed closure is made under the Local Government Act 1974 – Schedule 10 (11 (e) and will be considered at the next Council Meeting on 15 September 2021.

Any person objecting to the proposal is called upon to lodge notice of their objection and grounds thereof in writing or email to Council by 4.00 pm on Monday, 6 June 2021.

NEIL McCANN Infrastructure Services - Group Manager

Public Notification: LUC21/0029 – Resource consent application for Smiths City at 363 West Street, Ashburton District.

Please be advised that the previously notified application for the above contained a superseded version of the Assessment of Environmental Effects.

The revised document addresses in more detail Plan Change 4 to the Ashburton District Plan.

The Commissioner has requested that interested parties be given until 5 pm on the 9th of September to consider the revised report so that they may make submissions or reconsider submissions previously made.

The revised application is available on the Council's website (ashburtondc.govt.nz).

SUBMISSION Submissions should be addressed to info@adc.govt.nz with the reference LUC21/0029 and copies also served on the applicants, Tricroft Ltd C/- David Harford Consulting Ltd (david@dhconsulting.co.nz).

Ian Hyde District Planning Manager

ashburtondc.govt.nz

ADULT ENTERTAINMENT CHUBBY, busty Asian lady.

Excellent massage service.

Please phone 022 1395 223.

ashburtondc.govt.nz

GRAZING GRAZING wanted All feed types considered.

Call Steve 027 3216 060.

HIRE

MOTORING

WANTED

GENERAL hire.

Lawnmowers, chainsaws, concrete breakers, trailers, and more. All your DIY / party hire, call and see Ashburton U-Hire. 588 East Street.

Open Monday-Friday 7am - 6pm; Saturday 7.30am - 5pm; Sunday 8.30am 12.30pm - Phone 308 8061. www.ashburtonuhire.co.nz

WHEEL alignments at great prices. Maximise the life of your tyres with an alignment from Neumanns Tyre Services Ltd, 197 Wills Street. Phone 308 6737.

WANTED to buy. South Canterbury Foto News Volume 1, Nos 1 - 9 and Volume 2, Nos 1 - 8. Also any Canterbury News or Photo Reviews of 1960’s. Horse Racing Friday Flash 1950’s 1970’s or similar magazines.

Canterbury daily newspapers 1950-1970. Please phone Darcy (03)3481783.

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We Help Save Lives

Guardian Classifieds 307 7900

Call the Guardian today for your situation vacant advertising requirements.

Find out how you can help save lives by visiting: www.otago.ac.nz/chchheart

307 7900

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Weekend Services MEDICAL SERVICES

IN EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY PHONE 111.

For all other medical assistance outside of normal hours, please phone your General Practice team, 24/7, to speak with a health professional who will give you free health advice on what to do or where to go if you need urgent care.

If you don’t have a regular General Practice, call any GP team 24/7 for free telephone health advice.

to call is 0800 611 116. Healthline is staffed by registered Ashburton Office - 307 8409 week-days, 9am - 2pm, nurses who are trained to assess health problems and offer outside of these hours leave a message. advice over the phone. The service is free and confidential.

ASHBURTON’S STREET RECEIVERS Business Area: Mon - Fri 5pm Residential Area: Mon - Fri 5pm

Call us free on (0800 787 797).

Lines open 10am - 10pm seven days.

Wises Pharmacy, Countdown Complex, East Street, will be open from 9am - 1pm Saturday, from 10am - 1pm Lifeline Sunday.

Toll-free: 0800 353 353.

Countdown Pharmacy, Ashburton South, 2 East Street, OMMUNITY ERVICES open from 9am - 8pm daily.

Information Centre

Alcohol Drug Help Line

Pharmacies

C

Ashburton Rest Homes

DUTY DOCTORS

Please contact directly for hours.

Tinwald Medical Centre, Archibald Street, Ashburton, will be the duty practice for Saturday until 8am Sunday. To make an appointment call your regular GP. Eastfield Health, 135 Tancred Street, Ashburton, will be the duty practice for Sunday until 8am Monday. To make an appointment call your regular GP. Emergency phone until 8am Monday: 0800 700 155 Please bring your Community Services Card. All non New Zealanders should bring their passport with them, New Zealanders should bring some form of ID.

Emergency Dentist

Methven & Rakaia Area

For weekend and emergency services please phone Methven Medical Centre on 302 8105 or Rakaia Medical Centre on 303 5002 for details on how to access the after-hours service each weekend.

Healthline is a free health advice service. It operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The toll-free number

Please respect any COVID-19 restrictions or requirements

S

Art Gallery

327 West Street, Ashburton, phone 308 1133.

Open daily: 10am – 4pm.

If you do not have or cannot contact your regular dentist, please phone 027 683 0679 for the name of the rostered weekend dentist in Christchurch. Hours 9am - 5pm, Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.

Ashburton Museum

HELPLINE SERVICES

Havelock Street. Ph 308 7192. Saturday: 10am - 1pm.

Sunday: 1pm - 4pm.

Alcoholics Anonymous

Call 0800 AA WORKS (0800 229 6757) or visit www.aa.org.nz for more information.

Mental Health - Call free on 0800 222 955.

Ask for the Crisis Team.

Safe Care - 24hr Rape and Sexual Assault Crisis

Support. Phone 03 364 8791

Victims Support Group

24hr - Freephone 0800 VICTIM (0800 842 846).

Direct dials to a volunteer.

327 West Street, Ashburton, phone 307 7890.

Open daily: 10am – 4pm.

Ashburton Public Library

EA Networks Centre - Pools

20 River Terrace - phone 03 308 4020. WEEKEND HOURS: Sat and Sun 7am - 7pm. Public holidays 10am - 5pm.

Ashburton Operations Centre ASHBURTON MAIL CENTRE STANDARD POST: Mon - Fri 5pm POST DELIVERY CENTRES Allenton & Tinwald: Mon - Fri 5pm Methven & Rakaia: Mon - Fri 2pm

Methven - Saturday and public holidays 10am until 2.30pm. Phone 302 8955 or isite@midcanterburynz.com

ANIMAL SERVICES Dog, Stock & Noise Control

Ashburton District Council 03 307 7700 - 24hr service.

Animal Welfare Centre

All enquiries - phone 308 4432 or 027 3329286.

Veterinarians

ASHBURTON VETS - Ph 0276 838 000, 149 Cameron Street, Ashburton: Duty vet: Ben Hallenstein.

Full emergency service all weekend.

VET ENT RIVERSIDE - Ph 03 308 2321, 1 Smallbone Drive, Ashburton. Saturday clinic: 9am - 12 noon. Weekend 24-hour emergencies.

VETLIFE ASHBURTON - Ph 03 307 5195, Cnr East Street and Seafield Road, Ashburton. Saturday clinic: 9am - 12 noon. Weekend 24-hour emergencies.

CANTERBURY VETS - Ph 03 307 0686, West Street Clinic, West Street, Ashburton. Saturday clinic: 9am - 12 noon. Weekend emergencies: Jonathan Christian.

Vet Ent and Vet Life operate a joint after-hours SMALL animal emergency service. To use this service please phone your vet as usual.

FAMILY NOTICES 31

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS DEATHS McCOSKER, Theresa – Bernie, Mike, Katie and family wish to thank all of you who supported Theresa in her final days, attended her Funeral Mass and offered us expressions of sympathy. We are grateful for your support.

Your opportunity to tell Mid Canterbury of your next event or meeting Daily Events is a FREE DAILY LISTING of MID CANTERBURY EVENTS to be held in the immediate future by non-commercial organisations. To arrange for events to be published in Daily Events, clip this form, fill in the applicable details and hand in to our LEVEL 3 office on Burnett Street or post to: Ashburton Guardian, P.O. Box 77, Ashburton 7740, midday Thursday week prior to publishing.

MOORE, John Lyndon (JL) – Diana and family wish to extend our sincerest gratitude for the expressions of sympathy in the sudden loss of John (JL). For those who attended the funeral sent flowers and cards our heartfelt thanks. Thank you to St John Ambulance.

Please accept this as a personal acknowledgement to you all.

CONDITIONS: 1. Telephoned information NOT accepted.

2. Forms MUST be signed by an authorised representative of the organisation concerned.

3. A separate form MUST be submitted for each future event and may be lodged with the Guardian as far in advance as desired. For example: A club which meets monthly may submit, say, 12 separate forms simultaneously – one pertaining to each meeting scheduled over the following 12 months.

4. The organisation acknowledges that no responsibility for errors or omissions will be accepted by the Guardian Company.

Show off

your new arrival in our Welcome to the World adverts

Canterbury owned, locally operated

Patersons Funeral Services and Ashburton Crematorium Ltd

FREE OF CHARGE

Please email your photo and 30 words or less to classifieds@theguardian.co.nz

ANDREW, Howard Russell – Passed peacefully on August 24, 2021. Aged 63 years.

After courageously enduring longstanding illness. Beloved wife of Carolie, brother to Robert, father of Emma, Rudyard, Caitlin and Thurza, uncle of Jessica. Loved Oupsie to 12 grandchildren.

Full of fun, wisdom, and knowledge, he was a caring father figure to many.

He will be greatly missed.

"For neither death nor life, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord."

MANUEL, Mana Kohia – On August 26, 2021. Passed away peacefully at Rosebank Lifecare, Ashburton, aged 85 years.

Dearly loved husband of the late Lesley. Much loved father and father-in-law of Tony and Tessa, Riki and Viv, Sally, Susan, Simon, the late Wayne and his many Mokopuna. Messages to Mana Manuel’s family c/- PO Box 472, Ashburton 7740. A private cremation has been held which will be followed by a Memorial service to celebrate Mana’s life at a later date.

Office and Chapel Corner East & Cox Streets, Ashburton

Ph 307 7433

FUNERALS

Guardian ASHBUR TON

Our ne ws , online, all the time

.

Late death notices Please note all late death notices or notices sent outside ordinary office hours must be emailed to: deathnotices@theguardian.co.nz to ensure publication. To place a notice during office hours please contact us on 03 307 7900 Any queries please contact 0800 ASHBURTON (0800-274-287)

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18-22 Moore Street, Ashburton | 0800 263 6679 027 637 1229 | www.memoryfunerals.nz

Ashburton Weather

Saturday: Cloudy with drizzle until evening. Light winds.

Midnight Saturday

Canterbury Plains

MAX

11 MIN 4

Saturday: Cloudy and drizzly, but morning rain north of Christchurch. Light winds.

Sunday: Mostly cloudy with patchy drizzle and northeasterlies. Rain developing later with a fresh southerly change.

Monday: Rain, especially about the foothills, easing later in the day. Cold southeasterlies easing, tending northeast later.

A trough of low pressure, with embedded fronts, is crossing central and northern parts of New Zealand while a narrow ridge of high pressure is spreading onto the south of the South Island. Meanwhile, a low is slow-moving over the Tasman Sea. A series of cold fronts move up the country during Sunday and Monday, followed by a ridge building in the south. The low from the Tasman Sea moves over the Far North during Monday and Tuesday.

Around The Region Saturday

Sunday

Monday

Sunday: Mostly cloudy. Showers developing in the evening. Light winds.

MAX

Canterbury High Country

Saturday Mountain weather hazard: Wind Chill.

Cloudy and drizzly, however morning rain north of Mt Hutt.

Wind at 1000m: Light.

Wind at 2000m: Light.

Freezing level: 1500m rising to 1900m in the evening.

Sunday Mountain weather hazards: Snow, Wind Chill.

Patchy drizzle, turning to rain. Snow lowering to 900m later.

Wind at 1000m: W 20 km/h changing S 20 km/h in the morning.

Wind at 2000m: W 20 km/h changing S 20 km/h in the morning.

Freezing level: 1900m, lowering to 1200m late.

12 5 13 5 9 1 10 6 11 5 7 2 10 4 11 1 5 -2 10 5 11 4 7 1 9 3 10 6 7 1 11 4 11 5 8 1 For the very latest weather information, including Weather Warnings, visit metservice.com © Copyright Meteorological Service of New Zealand Limited 2021 Christchurch Darfield Lake Coleridge Methven Rakaia Timaru

12 MIN 5

Compiled by

Monday: Rain, easing later in the day.

Fresh southeasterlies easing, tending northeast later.

Readings to 4pm Friday

Ashburton Airport Temp °C Maximum 10.3 Minimum 7.1 Grass min 7.2 24hr Rain mm 4.8 46.0 Month to date S 20 Wind km/h Strongest gust 12:01am Sun hrs on Thu 7.0 152.4 Month to date

Methven 9.1 5.8 – – – – – – –

8 MIN 1

Christchurch Timaru Airport Airport 11.1 9.8 8.6 7.7 7.9 – 2.2 4.0 75.2 30.6 NE 24 SE 15 5:07am 9:52am 8.5 – 146.5 –

Tides, Sun and Moon Saturday

MAX

Sunday

Monday

Ashburton H 7:59am 8:19pm 8:51am 9:14pm 9:44am 10:10pm Mouth L 1:42am 2:03pm 2:31am 2:55pm 3:24am 3:52pm Rakaia Mouth Rangitata Mouth

H L H L

8:01am 1:45am 7:43am 1:26am

8:21pm 2:06pm 8:03pm 1:47pm

8:48am 2:32am 8:35am 2:15am

9:09pm 2:56pm 8:58pm 2:39pm

9:35am 3:20am 9:28am 3:08am

9:58pm 3:49pm 9:54pm 3:36pm

7:06am 6:03pm 7:04am 6:04pm 7:03am 6:05pm 11:59pm 9:49am

last qtr Aug 30

new Sep 7

– 10:13am 1:02am 10:40am

first qtr Sep 14

full Sep 21

32

Ashburton Guardian Saturday, August 28, 2021

Advertising Feature

@ashburtoncontracting

A great place to work and thrive When Raymond first walked in the doors as an ACL employee 17 years ago, he never imagined just how far his career would go.

Now a concrete truck driver, he’s been a little bit of everything in the roading department over the years but believes he might have finally found his niche behind the wheel.

With the help of the company, he’s worked his way up through all his appropriate licences and can now drive almost any vehicle in the fleet.

Getting out and about and seeing a bit of the district while delivering concrete, there’s a real sense of pride in looking in the rear vision mirror at a completed job upon leaving.

“I just love getting out of bed every morning and going to work, I’d rather be doing that than staying at home that’s for sure. ACL has been great to me over the years and it’s really nice to be able to give that back to them.”

As a qualified stone mason, Pat walked into a whole new career at ACL and has loved every minute of it.

Being a part of a great team and working for a company who really value their employees and try and give them every opportunity to advance themselves made going to work fun each day.

Pat said that ACL’s willingness to help its employees further their training and qualifications had allowed him to gain licences and experiences he would never have dream being possible and that the on-the-job experience, learning from a great team of leaders is invaluable.

“Construction work for ACL was a completely different kettle of fish to what I was used to when I first started, but the business has embraced me and allowed me to learn on the job and grow my own skillset over time which has been fantastic.

For, Grant, ACL’s rural foreman, his almost decade with the business has seen him go full circle.

What started out as a rural based job, quickly lead to laying pipelines across the district and sometimes further afield, but in recent times he’s returned back to the farming side of life.

Getting the opportunity to worked autonomously across all facets of the rural delivery, he’s the front man when it comes to not only dealing the with clients from the outset, but also getting out on the tools and making the job happen.

Being given the opportunity to be at the forefront is something he enjoys and meeting new people along the way is a real perk of the job.

“It’s a lot of work on the machinery, but no two days are really the same. Being given the tools to be able to start a project from the very beginning and then roll the sleeves up and get stuck into the work is great and I’m very fortunate to be able to do that.”

When Megan Wordsworth joined the ACL team two and a half years ago, she was instantly impressed with the emphasis placed on making Health and Safety an everyday part of working

CALL TODAY 03 308 4039

Photo: of the whole ACL team - December 2020

As one of the company’s Health and Safety co-ordinators, dealing largely in the operational sphere of things, she’s out and about frequently, on job sites making sure that everything is as it should be and working alongside a team of really receptive and willing staff. Having that companywide buy-in makes the job that little bit easier. Sure, it’s busy – but a challenge is what Megan loves and being able to help deliver the high standards and expectations and have the backing of the wider business makes it all the more enjoyable.

In a constantly changing and evolving world, keeping up to date and changing and learning as rules and regulations adapt in front of their eyes, Megan said the tight-knit H&S team, who worked so well together, made it easy to walk into the office every morning.

“Our ultimate goal each day is to make sure that not only are our staff safe, but also that they get home each night and with such a strong focus across the company on keeping to Health and Safety standards, it’s a great team to be a part of.”

Everyone has aspirations when they start a new job and for construction foreman, Brent, well known amongst the team as “Ferg” his arrival at ACL was no different. Kicking off his career there an operator, he quickly discovered where he wanted his path to lead and set about working to get there.

Calling on the experience of those around him and the support of the right people further up the company chain, over the past nearly five years he’s achieved his goal. He puts that down to the team of people he’s had around him and the culture that ACL has grown within its business. Yes, there is the odd cold morning and the some early starts, but seeing a job through from start to finish makes the harzd work all worth it at the end of the day and getting to do it with a team of “good buggers’ alongside him is the added bonus.

“There’s a bit of a pride factor there when you drive down a road, or through a site you’ve worked on and see it completed. It certainly makes you appreciate what you’ve managed to achieve.”

1 Range Street, Ashburton / RURAL / LIFESTYLE / CIVIL / WORKSHOP / www.ashcon.co.nz