Smiles, sunshine and cars galore greeted visitors to the Vintage Car Club Daffodil Day Vehicle Show.
Hundreds of people flocked to Brayshaw Park on Sunday to see the range of 180 cars, 40 bikes and even eight clinker boats.
From vintage Fords and MGs to Morris Minors there was plenty of automotive history on display.
Shined up to a gleaming polish, vehicles attracted crowds of all ages throughout most of the day, making the most of the warm weather and the eclectic display.
Organiser Chris Bird has thanked everyone who came out to support the event, raising funds for Marlborough Cancer Society.
He said the final amount was still to be tallied but added the club would have a “decent amount” to donate.
Wairau Valley’s Annual Country Classic Golf Tournament is set to take to the greens once again.
For more than 40 years, this fun competition has been attracting golfers of all abilities.
Sponsored by Southern Water Engineering, the tournament will see prizes awarded for a variety of challenges.
From pro-style driving and putting achievements to fun competitions and best dressed teams, organisers said the event offers
something for all, including an on-course BBQ after the fun. Entries are open for the SWE Country Classic which takes place on Friday 19 September at Wairau Valley Golf Club.
Enter a team of three or organisers can help make up a team on the day. The format is Ambrose and the fun starts at 9.30am.
For more information and to register contact Alison Graham at wairauvalleygolfclub@gmail.com. Entry is $50 per person.
Honour your loved one with a farewell that truly reflects their life
Marlborough’s most modern purpose-built chapel offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for your family and friends.
With state-of-the-art facilities, we’ll ensure the service is both meaningful and memorable.
By Olivia Judd
The Blenheim Gymnastics Club is urgently calling on the Marlborough community for help in finding new premises.
With every class full and wait lists growing, the Blenheim Gymnastics Club should be celebrating success.
Instead, it’s under pressure to find a new home after a feasibility study uncovered a lengthy list of faults.
The club’s Opawa Street home has major structural issues beneath the floor, significant leaks, poor storm water control, limited parking and pedestrian access. The building also needs a new roof and heating and cooling solutions.
The cost of renovating the building is not viable, so club bosses have been forced to find a new building, they said.
“Our premises are too small and outdated, and all our coaches are volunteers,” said Club president Kate Webb.
‘‘The club urgently needs attention, but the required work on our current building is likely unfeasible.
“That’s why we’re calling on the community to help us find
a suitable new venue - one that would allow us to expand and move toward a more sustainable, commercial model.”
Due to the nature of a gymnastics venue’s requirements, the club needs a building with a minimum floor area of 1000m2, and a ceiling height of 10 metres. Club bosses are calling for residents, property owners, and businesses to share any leads that could help secure the club’s future.
While the club is currently in talks with the Council as part of the Annual Plan process, the requirements for a new building are proving to make the hunt challenging.
The club highlighted the Council owned, former Smith’s City building as an ideal site. However, the Council has recently leased it out on a long-term commercial lease to Big Save Furniture.
“The club is bursting at the seams, every class has a waitlist,
and it’s both disappointing and frustrating that we can’t support more children in gymnastics,” Kate said.
The club is also in conversation with several other sports and dance groups in Blenheim to discuss possible shared venue options.
If anyone knows of a promising site, or has any ideas to support the club’s relocation, please reach out to blenheimgymnasticsclub@ yahoo.co.nz
Quick thinking from a driver and a prompt response from Picton Volunteer Fire Brigade (FENZ) meant a fire in a rubbish truck was caught early. A serious fire was averted after the driver noticed smoke and offloaded the waste into the car park of Picton Cemetery. It has prompted a warning to residents to ensure nothing flammable, including ashes, batteries and butane gas cylinders is put out in wheelie bins. Council’s Solid Waste Manager Mark Lucas said ashes retained heat for days and could start fires in household rubbish bins, rubbish trucks, transfer stations and landfills.
Following the successful sale of its retail plant stock, Selmes Garden Centre permanently closed to the public on Monday. Selmes Garden Charitable Trust will now focus its efforts on a new social enterprise -Trees for Marlborough. The initiative is dedicated to growing and supplying eco-sourced native trees to businesses, landscapers, and planting contractors across the region. “This is not the end of the Selmes Garden Charitable Trust,” says Ross Sinclair, Trust Chair. “It’s an evolution - one that better responds to the needs of both our community and the environment.”
Book winner
Congratulations to Blenheim Sun reader Megan Honour who has won a copy of Orchestra Class written by author Christabelle Grant and illustrated by Debbie Godsiff. Thank you to all who entered the draw, the book is available to buy at Cerise in Blenheim and at The Picton Bookshop.
Food waste wonder
Forget turning metal into gold, the Marlborough Research Centre thinks it can make millions turning the region’s food waste into fertiliser and animal feed. A trial plant that uses insect bioconversion and anaerobic digestion to break down organic waste is proposed for Blenheim’s Bluegums Landfill, if the funding can be sourced. Building the plant would allow them to test if a commercially viable product could be produced, the centre’s chief executive John Patterson told the Marlborough District Council.
Road repairs
Residents and road users across the top of the South Island can expect to see a hive of activity on state highways as recovery works in the region step up a gear. Regional Manager Lower North Island/Top of the South Mark Owen compared to Nelson/Tasman, the state highways in Marlborough stood up well were less affected by the bad weather and flooding of June and July – particularly in areas where resilience projects had previously been completed.
Lotto luck
A lucky shopper at Woolworths in Redwoodtown had cause to celebrate after buying a winning Lotto ticket. Twelve l Lotto players each won $16,422 with Lotto Second Division in Saturday’s live Lotto draw. Anyone who bought their ticket from any of the above stores should check their ticket as soon as possible instore, on MyLotto, or through the MyLotto App.
By Olivia Judd
Talent and teamwork have seen a Marlborough school choir take gold.
Marlborough Girls’ College Ovation choir won a gold award for their performance at the Big Sing Cadenza last week.
The Big Sing Cadenza was held in Timaru, and the girls
competed against 11 of the top secondary school choirs from across the South Island.
All choirs at the event were selected to participate based off their performance in The Big Sing, a nationwide secondary schools choral festival.
After months of dedicated preparation, countless rehearsals, and true commitment to
excellence, the choir took the stage with confidence, joy, and incredible passion.
Choir director Mrs Christianna Morgan led the students to an outstanding result.
Coming away from the competition as winners, the choir won gold in the Best Piece in Te Reo Māori and a Silver Korimaki Award.
Principal Mary-Jeanne Lynch said their performance was a testament to their talent.
“Their performance was not only a testament to their musical talent but also to their teamwork, resilience, and shared vision.
“Through their voices, our students lifted hearts and inspired all who heard them.”
By Paula Hulburt
The police investigation into the identity of a body discovered at the Wairau Bar continues.
A member of the public alerted police after finding the body in the water at the popular fishing spot on Saturday.
Police are continuing formal processes of investigation and identification which is still underway.
A spokesperson said “Police recovered the body of a person from the water off Wairau Bar Road, in Spring Creek.
“A member of the public notified Police at around 3.50pm, Saturday 23 August.
“A formal identification process is underway and may take some time.”
Local iwi Ngāti Rārua, Ngati Toarangatira and Rangitāne laid a rāhui at Wairau Bar for a five-day period which was expected to end on Wednesday.
The rāhui covers the Wairau River, particularly the mouth of the Wairau Bar – from the Ōpaoa and Wairau River confluence to the Wairau River mouth.
It prohibits the gathering of kai,
swimming and entering the water in these areas.
Rangitāne o Wairau Kaiwhakahaere Matua, Corey Hebberd, said the rāhui is a customary practice to uphold tikanga and restore balance to the environment following events such as a death.
ferry sailing
The Aratere made its final journey across Cook Strait last week, bringing an end to almost three decades of service between Picton and Wellington. Picton photographer Anne Gaelle captured the 150m-long ship leaving for the last time.
“Our first thoughts are with the whānau pani, who are carrying the weight of this loss.
“The rāhui is about creating a respectful space for them, and also for our awa.
“In our tikanga, a mate in the water affects the mauri of that place. By placing a rāhui, we acknowledge that wairua, we protect the living from coming into contact with tapu, and we allow time for the environment to return to a state of balance.
“This is both a mark of respect and an act of care.”
As work on the London Quay upgrade in Picton marks the halfway point, the doors of businesses along Picton’s waterfront strip are very much open for customers. The Diversion Gallery owner Barbara Speedy, also part of the Picton Business Group, said the Fulton Hogan team and Council had communicated well with those affected and this was appreciated. “We are keen for the public to know we are all still open for business and there is plenty to take in, including good food and wine, as the upgrade work continues,” she said.
By Paula Hulburt
They have the beards, the talent and the hope to win some money for their chosen charity.
ZZ Top fans Nigel Fairweather, Gavin Coombes and Tristin Stacey are getting ready to rock out on stage for the upcoming charity fundraiser Stars in Your Eyes.
And while the trio are keeping their chosen song a secret, they are happy to praise the charity they have chosen to support.
Nigel, who started paying both guitar and drums when he was 14 years old, said choosing Blenheim’s Marlborough Youth Trust was an easy decision.
“Tristin, Gavin and I have performed together quite a bit so Stars in Your Eyes is a worthwhile reason to play together again for good and on the big stage.
“They’ve both supported my decision in choosing the sponsor to be Marlborough Youth Trust, because I know how much music has helped me in my youth.”
Nigel said while he didn’t perform as much as he’d like to, it was great to be part of an event which supported a charity encouraging youth.
All money raised on the night goes to the Fulton Foundation, a charity which allocates grants to assist education, performances and productions within the region.
“It’s a nice reason to be a part
of something where we can encourage youth to pick up an instrument and have an alternative to the usual sorts of things that you get into when bored and have idle hands, so to speak,”
Nigel said.
Gavin said the friends had all played in bands before and were looking forward to returning to
the stage.
“We all saw this as a great chance to do something unique.
“It’s a bit of a return to the stage as well, and we’re diving into the deep end fully the public eye at the ASB Theatre, so it’s bigger than anything else.
“Although it feels a very, very long time ago, we were all youths
with a passion for music once.”
Gavin said they had been encouraged to enter this year’s charity show by Dietmarr at Dodson Street Beer Garden.
“He’s an integral part of the community, an innovator though tough times, a genuinely nice guy and a bit of a rocker too.”
“I think the waiting and prepar-
ing is the hardest,” Tristan added. “Once we’re on the stage I’ll just be thinking ‘Don’t fall over, don’t drop the drumsticks’ over and over again.”
The Fulton Foundation’s Stars in Your Eyes 2025 takes place on Saturday 11 October at ASB Theatre. But tickets at the theatre or through eventfinder.co.nz
By Olivia Judd
Two women who turned heartbreak into healing are set to inspire Blenheim with their stories.
Friends Michelle Emery and Carol Beaumont are set to share their personal stories at their upcoming From Pain to Purpose - Her Courage Speaks event.
Michelle almost died after being hit by a truck and Carol spent 20 years married to an alcoholic before finding the courage to walk away.
For Carol, returning to Blenheim is extra special as it’s where she met her now partner, John Porter.
‘‘I lovingly refer to ‘Boomtown’ as the home of my healing,” she said.
“I met my now-partner John Porter, a born and bred Blenheim musician, completely unexpectedly, after running the Saint Clair Marathon.
“We had a fairy tale long-distance romance for two years before he made the move to Christchurch to be with me during lockdown.”
Both Carol and John have a strong friend and family base in Blenheim and John now sings acoustically at Her Courage Speaks events.
Carol says ‘‘The positive feedback we receive has been overwhelming.
‘‘Our goal is to create a safe space of connection and empowerment, claiming the power of vulnerability and belief that anyone
can turn their pain into purpose.”
Michelle was a dance teacher in North Canterbury for 20 years. Her life changed when hit by a 50-tonne truck while running.
At the event she speaks about navigating the physical and emotional challenges of recovery, and the role movement and mindset played in her healing.
Their stories will resonate with anyone who has ever had to rebuild after an unexpected life-altering event, they revealed.
Carol shares the realities of being married to an alcoholic for 20 years, the emotional toll it took on her mental health, and the courage it took to walk away. Her journey offers practical steps in rebuilding confidence and offers hope and guidance for anyone who has ever been in a difficult relationship or encountered addiction.
Spreading courage are (from left) Michelle Emery and Carol Beaumont, who will be hosting an event in town this Friday.
The duo have run sold-out events throughout North and South Canterbury. From Pain to Purpose - Her Courage Speaks will be held at the Scenic Hotel Marlborough, this Friday from 7-9pm. Tickets are $25 each and include a sweet treat. Tickets are available at https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2025/from-pain-to-purpose-hercourage-speaks/blenheim
In the run up to this year’s local election, each week we ask candidates some questions about their prospective wards. The elections are held by postal vote, beginning on Tuesday 9 September and closing at 12 noon on Saturday 11 October. Orange ballot bins will also be made available in multiple locations around the district for people to deposit their voting paper.
you by...
Cathie Bell Blenheim candidate
I’d revitalise the centre of Blenheim… the CBD needs a plan and some care and attention. I’d like it to be easier to hold events in the centre of town. And I’d like to see solar panels across the roofs of in the CBD generating electricity in the sunniest part of the country! This could be an extra revenue source for council.
David Croad
Deputy Mayor and Blenheim Councillor standing for re-election. The way our community understands and connects with the planning and decision-making process. Often the ‘why’ and ‘how’ behind them is not clearly understood. I would like the community to have a clearer picture of how we plan, budget, consult and decide, as these decisions aren’t made lightly, they are carefully worked through with the best interests of Marlborough’s people in mind.
Deborah Dalliessi Blenheim Councillor standing for re-election
Pure, unfluoridated waterjust as nature intended. A friendly town crier to keep locals and visitors informed about what’s on and what council is doing. Connecting people with information and a smile is the cheapest investment for a welcoming and connected town. Also, Small shuttle buses linking arterial parking hubs to our town centre.
Letters on issues of community interest are welcomed. A maximum of 150 words please.
They must be signed and a street address provided to show good faith, even when a nom de plume is provided for publication.
Dear Ed
The editor reserves the right to abridge letters or withhold letters from publication. Email them to news@blenheimsun. co.nz or present to our office at 72 High St.
Please note that your name and street address MUST be provided with emails.
The closed season for blue cod August 31 to December 20 - a guess at the spawning period for blue cod appears to be a success with the present abundance of the Sounds blue cod population. However there is no logic to extend that closed season to January 10 to include the Christmas-New Year holiday period.
Part of Sounds holidaying is going fishing. It will still happen. Except any blue cod caught will be released to die from mishandling or opportunistic shags and barracuda.
Since the Anderson blue cod ban in 2007, ministry controls have been chaotic, e.g. complete ban for 2.5 years, stupid slot rule for several years resulting in death of important breeding female blue cod.
Dear Ed
Last week more than 150 Marlburians signed an open letter calling on our National MP’s humanity to take a stand against Israel’s mass murder of Palestinians.
His reply was evasive and dismissive, consisting mainly of pro-Israel lies and half-truths.
He starts with the Oct 7 attacks, but does not mention the decennia long Israeli occupation which has resulted in casualty numbers far greater than Oct 7.
Mr Smith mentions the hostages, of course only referring to Israeli hostages, not the almost10,000 Palestinian hostages held by Israel.
He wants “a ceasefire and food and aid to reach Gaza”, again wilfully ignoring Israel’s occupation. End the occupation and there will be no need for food or aid.
The Ministry’s slot rule did enormous harm, far more than any recreational fishing as requiring anglers to release fish bigger than 35cms resulted in many dying.
Next ministry’s poor management move was two fish per person, 33cms minimum size and the closed season August 31 - December 20. If minimum size was 30cms, this would reduce mortality numbers of returned fish. Ministry lethargy shows that since 2007, there has been no research where and when cod spawn - incompetent ministry still flies in the dark. I must add my appreciation of the Recreational Anglers Marlborough Association for their advocacy and vigilance. Roger Randall Blenheim
Mr Smith waffles about respect for international law which Israel has been flouting forever, supported by his own government. No mention of this. He hints about the government possibly thinking about recognising the state of Palestine next month. If yes, then the issue is when, and how. The can is kicked down the road again, while Israel starves more Palestinians to death.
As our elected representative in parliament, Mr Smith fails miserably in representing his constituents. Nothing can justify the extermination of thousands upon thousands of men, women and children. Mr Smith’s lack of mental aptitude to stand up against mass murder exposes his moral cowardice. He is unfit to represent us. Mr Smith, you (and your government) are a disgrace.
Peter Mathyssen Rarangi
The South Island Masters Games and Council have announced an extension of their successful partnership for a further two events, ensuring the games will return to Marlborough in 2027 and 2029.
Since its first tournament in Blenheim in 2021, the South Island Masters Games have generated more than $5.5 million in economic benefits for Marlborough and contributed more than $150,000 to local sports organisations.
Chair of the South Island Masters Games Thomas Nation said the partnership extension reflected strong support from the Marlborough community and the positive impact the games had created.
“We are thrilled to confirm that the South Island Masters Games will remain part of Marlborough’s event calendar for years to come. The economic and social benefits have been significant, and we are proud to have not only brought thousands of visitors to the region but also contributed to grassroots sport.”
In a further boost for the event, the games announced a new naming partnership
with Marlborough Lines as naming partner of the South Island Masters Games in Marlborough through to 2029.
The 2025 Marlborough Lines South Island Masters Games will be held
in Blenheim from 17 to 27 October, welcoming 2,000 participants competing across 25 sports and more than 500 events.
Learn more and enter at https:// simasters.com
As work on the London Quay upgrade in Picton marks the halfway point, the doors of businesses along Picton’s much loved waterfront strip are very much open for customers.
The Diversion Gallery owner Barbara Speedy, also part of the Picton Business Group, said the Fulton Hogan team and Council had communicated well with those affected and this was appreciated.
“We are keen for the public to know we are all still open for business and there is plenty to take in, including good food and wine, as the upgrade work continues. A lot of people didn’t realise the watermains and stormwater needed replacing and relocating, so it’s good to see Council taking the opportunity to combine that essential infrastructure project with simultaneous improvements,” she said.
Council’s Project and Contract Manager Maighan Watson said the London Quay Revitalisation Project was focussed on essential infrastructure upgrades, while delivering a landscape refresh of London Quay.
“We have adopted a ‘dig once’ approach to minimise the disruption to the Picton CBD, local businesses and users of the area. We appreciate the support of all the directly affected businesses as well as those close by such as Brereton Jewellers and Diamond Nails.
“Several essential infrastructure upgrades were required in this area, including streetlight upgrades, watermain renewals and road resurfacing.”
Ms Watson said the contractor, Fulton
London Quay businesses are open as work continues on the revamp. From left are Sisu Eatery and Bar owner Stefan Gross; The Diversion Gallery owner Barbara Speedy; Toastie Lords Manager Nadia Hardie; Seabreeze Café and Bar owner Brent Charnley and Peter Schöni from Le Café
Hogan, was making great progress with the underground infrastructure now completed, including watermains, stormwater upgrades and ducting for new streetlights.
“Around 350m² of new paving has been laid with the southern section of the footpath now reopened to the public. The old pavers around the War Memorial have also been replaced, and work has started on the stepped pedestrian connection to the Foreshore which is a real feature of the revitalisation.
“September will see more some progress above ground with the installation of new streetlights and starting the landscaping works,” Ms Watson said.
The site holds cultural significance for local iwi, Te Ātiawa (Waitohi Pā), and Council has worked in partnership with the iwi to integrate cultural design elements throughout the upgrade. The project, scheduled for completion by mid-October, was awarded to Fulton Hogan with design led by Rough Milne Mitchell Landscape Architects.
Funding for the project has been provided through Council’s forestry, land and port income, with no impact on rates.
For more information, go to Council’s website at www.marlborough.govt. nz and search ‘Picton CBD - London Quay Revitalisation Project’.
New bylaw important step towards getting Marlborough’s waste sorted
Marlborough is taking steps towards a cleaner, more sustainable future with the introduction of the Waste Management and Minimisation Bylaw from 1 September 2025.
The old bylaw had been superseded by legislative changes and the region’s new kerbside collection service, Solid Waste Manager Mark Lucas said.
“This is another important step towards diverting as many recyclable and reusable products as possible from the landfill,” he said.
“This bylaw covers everything to do with waste management and minimisation and puts a greater emphasis on Council to be more sustainable and to ensure waste minimisation plans are in place. It’s important we lead the way.”
The new bylaw gives Council better tools to deal with litter and nuisance relating to waste and has a greater emphasis on the health and safety.
Other changes include a new requirement for waste management plans from industry including the building of multi-unit residential dwellings and all commercial demolition and construction activities over $1M in value.
This part of the bylaw will come into effect later, on 1 July 2026, and Council staff will work with the commercial demolition and construction sector to help provide waste minimisation plans.
Under the previous bylaw all events in Marlborough required a waste minimisation plan. The new bylaw has set the trigger for this at 300 attendees. Licensing requirements for waste operators will also be introduced to better monitor the effectiveness of the new bylaw.
During the consultation held in March and April, 23 submissions were received with most supporting the new bylaw. A summary document will be made available prior to the bylaw becoming effective on 1 September 2025.
The new waste bylaw is an important step towards diverting as many recyclable and reusable products as possible from the landfill
concert pianist Marsha Stringer
16. Paula Hulburt pays tribute to a woman whose immense talent, love and friendship made the lives of all who knew her brighter.
Fingers poised lightly over the keys; the hall is silent as the audience waits. The deep blue of her dress shimmers under the lights as she gets ready to play. Her fingers begin to fly to a murmur of delight, the music unfurling into the high rafters of St Andrew’s church with joy. From a nervous 16-year-old who played in front of the late Queen Elizabeth’s mother at the Guildhall in London to a church in Blenheim, Marsha, as always performed with great talent and flair.
Born in Croydon, London, Marsha came from a creative background. Her father was a lawyer and a talented pianist. Her mother was a ballerina with the Royal Ballet in Covent Garden and her grandparents were also musically gifted. Together, her family supported all of Marsha’s creative endeavours, allowing her to shine on her chosen path.
Marsha started school at Ashburton Primary in Croydon when she was 5-years-old. There she began to explore both ballet and piano, both she took to with ease. Walking home after school, Marsha, her hand carefully clasped in her grandmother’s, would chatter excitedly about her day. Springy curls, carefully plaited at the start of the day, would make a bid for freedom, ringlets bouncing as the pair headed for home.
By 11-years-old, Marsha had a choice to make, to follow in her mother’s footsteps as a professional ballerina or to devote her time to music. Her heart, she once said, couldn’t leave music behind. She was enrolled at Selhurst Grammar School for Girls where her exceptional gift saw her earn the highest mark in England in the Royal College of Music’s grade 8 piano exam. It was this achievement that saw her chosen to play in front of the then Queen Mother. With her ready smile, dry sense of humour, quick wit and kindness, Marsha made many friends throughout
her life. Some of her dearest memories come from her days at school and her early days in a rehearsal orchestra. Recounting some of the tales from that time, Marsha would laugh with great fondness, inklings of good-hearted mischief and fun times a twinkle in her eyes. Marsha and husband Barry would regularly travel back to the UK to visit those who meant so much, with Marsha excited to share her history with her beloved husband.
Attending the Royal Academy of Music in London, she needed a second instrument and, having some experience in playing it, she picked the oboe. She was urged to make the oboe a joint-first study alongside piano. For the next three years, she studied and learnt. To perform at concert standard, she always insisted, meant studying the great composers and their music. In her final year at the Academy, Marsha was appointed a junior professor.
After she left, she played in many concerts, at home and in Europe. Marsha studied under many famous conductors including the renowned Hans-Hubert Schönzeler. Under his guidance, Marsha later explained, she learnt a greater understanding of music, helping to perform at an even higher level as a pianist.
She was also invited to play first oboe with the Commonwealth Symphony Orchestra and with the Lewisham Concert Band, combining concerts, BBC broadcasts with her work as a piano and oboe teacher in schools around London.
Immigrating to New Zealand in 1975 with her first husband, a separation and divorce later followed, and Marsha created a new life for herself, in Blenheim. She taught music at both Marlborough Girls’ and Marlborough Boys’ Colleges before marrying Barry in 1991. Her heart was complete; she would later say with a smile.
With Barry’s support she performed
in a series of concerts at St Andrews Church. Forming a partnership with Nelson cellist Lissa Cowie. Their concerts were renowned and attended by hundreds of people over the years, her last concert was in 2021 and the following year Marsha also retired from teaching. Standing centre stage, Barry at her side and a huge bouquet of colourful blooms in her arms, Marsha stood with quiet elegance and smiles as she waited for the applause to peter out. Her hand reached for Barry and the pair stood side by side, hands clasped. Fellow musician and friend Tracy Moore said Marsha bought so much joy to so many.
“Marsha will be greatly missed. She was an incredibly fine musician who bought so much joy to so many - to those who heard Marsha perform as a concert pianist and with a variety of chamber
duos at many concerts held here in Marlborough. Including the notable long running St Andrews concert series and a number in Melbourne.
“There is also the strong and long legacy Marsha has left with all her piano students over many years here in Blenheim.
“Marsha has left a truly indelible mark on our community, she was a well-loved and highly respected musician, an outstanding teacher, esteemed colleague and great friend, who is greatly missed.”
Marsha’s retirement made time for her other interests. She enjoyed creating cross-stitch, was a voracious reader and was much in demand for catch ups with friends. She loved to walk Tosca, the couple’s exuberant black labrador and wherever she went, she was sure to be stopped by friends and former pupils de-
lighted to see her. With a natural flair for fashion, Marsha was always impeccably turned out. Low-heeled shoes toned exactly with whatever dress she wore, jewellery carefully matching, and the stylish finish was always topped off with a beautiful smile. Her smile, her warmth, her wit and kindness will be missed by so many.
Marsha is survived by her beloved husband Barry, stepson Paul, and stepdaughters Joanne, Fiona and Nicola.
Summerset Blenheim is a growing village with a vibrant community. The village centre is underway, and once complete, will offer a range of fantastic indoor and outdoor facilities for you to enjoy.
A range of two-bedroom cottages are available with flexible pricing starting from $530,000*.
“Moving into Summerset Blenheim while I could, not when I had to, was the best decision. I feel secure, supported, and still independent, with a welcoming community and plenty to do. My family sees how much I’m thriving. If you’re considering a move, don’t wait!” ALLISON, RESIDENT AT SUMMERSET BLENHEIM
We know that moving to a retirement village is a big decision. So why not come along to our upcoming Open Days and see for yourself why our residents love the Summerset life.
Love the life you choose.
Every Thursday in August, 10am - 2pm
Summerset Blenheim
183 Old Renwick Road, Blenheim
03 520 6042 | summerset.co.nz/blenheim
By Paula Hulburt
Plans are underway to safeguard the future of one of world’s last surviving wooden sailing ships.
A group of experts visited the globally significant Edwin Fox in Picton recently to see how the vessel could be preserved for the next 50 years.
The visit was key in laying groundwork for council’s phased redevelopment plan, said Manager Heritage Marlborough Liz Ward.
“The panel viewed the ship and dry dock and then workshopped ideas on how the Edwin Fox could be preserved for at least the next 50 years,” she said.
“Several recommendations came out of the workshop and the Heritage Marlborough team will be assessing these over the coming months.”
The Edwin Fox built in India in 1853 by shipbuilder Thomas Reeves. She carried people, cargo and goods around the globe.
The ship is deeply significant to New Zealand’s history, having transported migrants on four voyages, and later pioneering the frozen meat trade as a floating freezer.
Now in dry dock and a popular visitor attraction, the historic vessel attracts global attention.
A team of experts had been appointed to guide the preservation of the vessel. Each person brings a range of skillsets to the preservation project, including marine and coastal engineering, historic ship conservation, naval architecture and maritime cultural heritage.
Grant Pearce, Harry Stronach, Sara Gainsford and Kurt Bennett were in Picton for two days assessing the vessel and discussing pres-
ervation options and aspirations.
They also met with members of the Edwin Fox Preservation Trust. The trust was established using a bequest from Dr John Hunt, a descendant of a doctor who sailed on the Edwin Fox.
Panel member and Auckland-based maritime cultural heritage specialist and archaeologist Dr Kurt Bennett said the Edwin Fox was a ship with a rich global history.
“The primary goal of this preservation project is to house and support the vessel in line with global best practice, ensuring its preservation for at least 50 years while maintaining a unique and interactive visitor experience.
“The Edwin Fox holds immense cultural and educational value, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the experiences of those who travelled aboard her,” he said.
By Kira Carrington LDR Reporter
Marlborough’s $20 million repair job after the June and July floods is to be largely covered by the New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi.
The region was pummelled by heavy rain on June 27, causing a local state of emergency to be declared due to flooding, slips and damage to roads. More heavy rain
followed on July 3, 11 and 29.
On Friday, the Marlborough District Council announced that NZTA had agreed to cover 91 per cent of the cost of response activities, such as road closures and traffic management, and 81 per cent of the cost of recovery activities, such as road repairs, through an enhanced Funding Assistance Rate (FAR).
The council’s regional land transport committee chairperson Scott Adams, who had a farm on the damaged Northbank Rd, northwest of Blenheim, welcomed the news.
“Marlborough Roads staff and
contractors have been working to fix more than 780 faults across our entire local roads network caused by these recent storms,” Scott said.
“NZTA have acknowledged the challenges we are facing as a council and responded very positively to our request for this enhanced FAR. We sincerely appreciate NZTA’s support in helping us to restore our local roads adversely affected by these recent weather events.”
The worst of the damage occurred in the Awatere Valley, on Northbank Rd, and on Port Underwood Rd.
There were also several slips on Queen Charlotte Drive, including a large slip between Ngākuta Bay and Momorangi Bay.
“Port Underwood Rd from Oyster Bay to Rārangi is still closed because of a large dropout,” Scott said.
He added Marlborough Roads estimated the repair of the Northbank Rd slip would cost upwards of $1m by the time it was finished.
An estimated 2500 truckloads of material needed to be removed.
“This slip is 35m high, 60m across, and contains around 20,000 cubic metres of material. That’s the
equivalent of eight Olympic-sized swimming pools,” he said. By the end of August 12, crews had removed 11,800 cubic metres of the material, he said.
“Over the past few days, this has been at a rate of around 800m³ per day.”
Northbank Rd was currently closed from 9am to 4pm, Monday to Saturday, with lunchtime openings 12pm to 1pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays, while repairs were being carried out.
LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
Design-led hire and curated styling for Top of the South weddings roamevents.co.nz gather@roamevents.co.nz @roameventsnz
New Zealand weddings are becoming less traditional with some of the older customs becoming a thing of the past. It has become acceptable for couples to ditch the customs and instead add in their own touches, more suited to the day they want.
Traditions still in favour
Getting ready at separate locations
While the bride and groom may choose to spend time together the night before their wedding, it is still custom for the bride to get ready elsewhere with her bridesmaids and the groom to do the same.
Walking down the aisle
Most brides still walk down the aisle at the beginning of the ceremony. Brides want to see that reaction from their partner when they arrive and many look forward to this moment too much to stray from tradition.
The First Kiss
As a newly married couple, it is one of the most important moments that signifies the start of their new life together. This moment signifies a new start and marks the end of the service and the beginning of the after-ceremony celebrations.
Speeches
There will almost certainly be at least one person who stands
With its gorgeous gardens and specular mountain views,
up to do a speech, even if just a short thank you. Even in cases where the Bride and Groom have expressed that they don’t want speeches, guests want to express their happiness for the newlyweds, maybe embarrass them a little and wish them all the best for their life together.
Toasting!
There will be toasts to the bride and groom and everyone in the room will find their glass (hopefully filled) and raise it to toast the newly married couple and a chance to wish them all the best for their future.
Cutting the cake
There is almost always cake, and it is almost always turned
Choosing your wedding and or engagement rings is such an important piece of the wedding process.
With all the expense of a wedding sometimes it gets forgotten that after the I dos and the big party and the honeymoon your rings are with you for the rest.
It's important to make sure you take the time to choose something that will stand the test of time alongside your marriage and to some advice about what wears well and what might suit your individual lifestyle.
GMW Jewellery specialise in helping customers choose the perfect rings. From choosing the most appropriate metal to suit the person and the price to the unique style of each person.
"Your rings should be as unique as you are"
into a ceremonial event at a wedding. As with most of the important traditional moments, this is one that generally makes it into the wedding album.
The first dance
This one is a little more hit and miss. It is still common, but at the same time, more couples are choosing not to do a first dance, it really comes down to personality. Those who do add in the first dance have many options from an impromptu swirl on the dance floor, to a fully choreographed number, to a flash mob that involves their guests. It can be such a special moment that the bride and groom get to share together.
The Vino Van is our beautifully restored 1962 Roadmaster caravan. Fitted with a wine and beer fridge at one end and a push out bar with two keg taps at the other, The Vino Van is available for hire for any celebration or event. The Vino Van is suitable for a wide range of mobile bar services and a variety of event types including weddings, birthday parties, corporate events, Christmas parties and product launches.
The options are endless.
• Every Vino Van outing is different. We work with you to ensure your event is tailored to your specific needs
• We are not just a mobile bar service, we will ensure that your event runs smoothly,
empties are removed, tables are cleared and your guests are well looked after
• You need only to provide the alcohol and glassware – no corkage, no inflated bar prices and you get to keep what’s left over
• We can serve champagne, wine, bottled beer, keg beer or cider, cocktails – pretty much any liquid beverage you require to ensure your event is exactly what you want it to be
• We supply ice, fruit infused water and non-alcoholic punch as part of your package
Talk to The Vino Van team today about adding fun and free flowing good times to your next event.
Having a resurgence is the flowing cascade bouquet for brides. Especially for a touch of old-world charm or drama.
These bouquets flow beautifully downward creating a waterfall effect.
Elegant and eye catching they can include a variety of flowers from the dainties to classic roses or exotic orchards.
Complement with greenery can also add a lush look.
On the other end of the scale for brides that aren’t big flower lovers - these can be just as stunning and the simplicity has a beauty of its own.
Perfect for modern weddings and those who prefer “less is more”.
Elegant sophistication with pure class.
Written by Jane Austen, adapted by Penny Ashton. Produced by Marlborough Repertory Society, directed by Bridget McNamara.
NAME: Tessa
AGE: 5 years
GENDER: Female, spayed
BREED: Huntaway/Collie
PERSONAL STATEMENT:
I’m
Reviewed by Tessa Nicholson
When Jane Austen’s first book Sense & Sensibility was published, it was done without her name as author. In 1811, it was deemed unseemly for a gentlewoman to write - just one of the many social mores of the time to keep women in “their place.” Austen, who could well be labelled the world’s first feminist, places an axe down the middle of those expectations and Penny Ashton’s adaptation along with Director Bridget McNamara’s interpretation provide Austen with something she was denied in real life - acceptance and acknowledgment. A play full of characters - 25 in all, is not overtaken with testosterone. All 25 characters are played by women. A total of nine females take on the roles of 25 characters. What a feat! It is hard enough remembering lines, let alone remembering which role you are supposed to be playing. But not a problem for this cast - each member moves seamlessly from one role to the next with a few standouts.
Amanda Tollemache as Fanny Dashwood and John Middleton could have taken haughty lessons at the knee of Violet Crawley. If her nose had lifted any higher, she
would have hit the lights above Marianne and Elinor - the two sisters at the heart of the play are delightfully portrayed by Emily Pitcon and Tania Millar, the only two actors with sole roles. Both were admirable 19th century damsels.
McNamara’s quirky take on a variety of situations ads to the charm of the production. From the opening salvo to turn off phones through to the coconut shell house arrivals, there are smiles on many faces. But the trees and shrubs were my favourite - pure, almost Monty Python-ish comedy. This storyline has more twists and turns than a child’s train set, forcing the audience to keep up. But the noisy set changes were a bit of a distraction. I believe this is thankfully being addressed so as not take away from the brilliance of the set.
All in all, this 114-year-old story is for all ages if only to show how far we have come since 1811.
You may not think Austen humorous or relevant - Marlborough Repertory’s production will make you think again.
Sense & Sensibility opens tonight at the Boathouse Theatre and runs until September 6. Get your tickets from ASB theatre - NOT TO BE MISSED!
BreastScreen Aotearoa is extending the age range for free breast screening in Nelson and Marlborough.
If you’re between 70 and 74, visit TimeToBreastScreen.nz or call 0800 270 200 to see if it applies to you.
By Paula Hulburt
A one-off jazz concert showcasing some of Marlborough’s finest musicians has seen top talents join forces.
Local saxophonist Tristan Gregory-Hunt is presenting a concert to showcase some of the region’s best jazz players.
Tristan, who studied jazz performance at the New Zealand School of Music, said he had always wanted to do a showcase with a jazz ensemble.
That it is with his friends makes it even more special, he said.
Tristan has teamed up with pianist Fred Wiseman, bassist Alistair McLeod, and percussionist Aimee Moore.
“I have been playing the saxophone for over 18 years since moving to New Zealand from the Chatham Islands,” Tristan said.
“I have been doing a fair bit of training as a jazz musician back in the day. I always wanted to do a showcase with a jazz ensemble.
“Now it’s happening, and I’m ready to share my music journey with a story and with my jazz quartet, and close music friends.”
Together the ensemble will be presenting a night of jazz standards and modern jazz pop from a variety of well known musicians.
The concert is on Saturday 30 August at Fidelio Cafe & Wine Bar, starting 7.00pm.
Tickets are $25 each and are available at: fidelio. co.nz/concerts
Heck yeah, spring is on its way and we’re on the cusp of a new riding season. Bikes are coming out of sheds all over town. WOFs and Rego’s are being updated, bikes are getting serviced, tyres, brakes, lights checked, chain lubed, riding gear in top order, and we’re ready for wherever the road takes us.
Marlborough Road Riders
Check out their Facebook page, 793 members, WOW! Anyone who wants to organise a ride, it goes up on this page. Apply to join and find riding friends you didn’t know you had. They have a social get together every Friday at Dodson’s, turn up any time around 5.30 and introduce yourself, Dietmar will point you in the right direction.
Marlborough Motorcycle Road Safety Group
This group is no longer affiliated with MDC. The Road Safety Coordinator role was disestablished by Council when Robyn Blackburn retired but this hasn’t spelled the end of this group. They’re working on some exciting events for riders in the region over summer. If you can help with funding or want to be involved, contact Andrea at Marlborough Road Riders or give John at Marlborough Motorcycle Riding School a call.
Chris Parnwell Motorcycles
Chris is now doing motorcycle WOFs alongside all your servicing and repairs. Good Stuff! Call Chris on 022 652 6494 or visit the workshop at 42 Park Terrace.
Marlborough Motorcycles
Marlborough Motorcycles moved into their new premises at 92 Middle Renwick Road a few months ago and they’re looking great. Check them out, have a gander at the gear and bikes for sale. It’s awesome and of course, always good to support local.
Marlborough Motorcycle Riding School
MMRS have a special for the month of September, and are excited to offer a HALF PRICE special on all Restricted and Full Licence training and assessment rides. If you’ve been sitting on your learners or restricted licence for yonks, now’s the time! Be in quick for this one, spaces are filling fast.
To book in call John on 0210 828 8713.
for September. Stay upright out there folks, remember, life’s too short not to have fun but let’s keep the stats down and do it safely eh.
Moving house is often described as one of life’s most stressful experiences, but in Marlborough there’s a name people have trusted for more than 20 years to make it easier, Marlborough Moving & Storage.
Locally owned and operated by industry veteran Errol Gardiner, the Blenheim-based company is built on one simple principle, service comes first.
“Our only product is people,” says Errol. “We’re a service business. If we can’t provide that, we don’t deserve to be in business.”
That focus on people is what sets the company apart. Every move is different, with its own challenges and stresses.
Errol says his team prides itself on
empathy, respect, and professionalism at every step.
“We know moving can be overwhelming, so our job is to ease that pressure, handle belongings with care, and deliver on our promise.”
Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, Marlborough Moving & Storage offers flexible services tailored to your needs, from shifting only the big items to managing the full pack-andmove. Customers are even assigned a dedicated driver, ensuring the same person who loads your belongings is there to unload them at your new home. The company also has secure storage options available, with a monitored facility
at Park Terrace and container storage for extra flexibility.
Errol brings decades of experience to the table, including owning a nationwide moving company and serving on the board of the global FIDI alliance— a not-for-profit organization representing professional international moving and relocation companies.
Despite working in large scale environments, he says nothing compares to serving the local community.
“The most rewarding part of this business is the personal interaction with customers. At the end of the day, our success is measured in trust, and that’s something we take personally.”
Companion (6)
Vague, imprecise (3-7)
(8)
To some extent (2,1,3) 22. Frightened (6)
Hard work (4)
WordBuilder Across : 7. Tweezers, 9. Smelly, 10. Dirt, 11. Apologetic, 12. Gemini, 14. Spectrum, 15. Seller, 16. Beside, 19. Timeline, 21. Punish, 23. Revitalise, 24. Seal, 25. Eureka, 26. Discover. Down : 1. Awhile, 2. Rent, 3. Negative, 4. Ashore, 5. Pedestrian, 6. Altitude, 8. Spouse, 13. Ill-defined, 15. Spiteful, 17. Espresso, 18. Behi nd, 20. In a way, 22. Scared, 24. Slog. Fir, fit, fop, for, fort, frit, fro, oft, opt, pit, poi, port, pot, pro, prof, PROFIT, rift, riot, rip, rot, tip, tiro, top, topi, tor, tori, trio, trip.
the Marlborough Repertory Society’s much anticipated production of Sense & Sensibility opens tonight at the boathouse theatre and runs until September 6th. Grab your tickets from ASb theatre - NOt tO bE MISSED!
Photos: Tilly Phelps.
By George Elder
Are we in danger of ignoring the true health impacts of some serious diseases? Our modern medical approach to lifestyle diseases could be encouraging us to vastly underestimate the risks of some very serious conditions, such as pre-diabetes, elevated blood pressure and heart disease.
Let’s take Type-2 Diabetes for example. A common treatment is Metformin or external insulin to “cover” the glucose in the blood along with suggestions to maintain your diet and eat normally. This does absolutely nothing to address the root-cause of the problem or reduce the risk of heart disease, blindness, deafness, stroke, or amputation in the future, creating the impression that Type-2 Diabetes is not a big deal.
Type-2 Diabetes is a really big deal. It frequently leads to many very serious conditions including nerve damage, blindness, liver damage, kidney disease, and heart disease. Even the American Diabetes Association (ADA), which does not yet acknowledge that the condition can often be reversed with a ketogenic diet, states “Adults with diabetes are two times more likely to have a heart attack or stroke, even if their diabetes is managed well”.
The damage caused by chronically high glucose and insulin gradually damages nerves and blood vessels in extremities and in the eyes, often leading to toe and foot amputations, deafness and loss of eyesight. The problem is typical treatments do not address the root-cause which is insulin resistance, generally caused by a diet and lifestyle whereby chronically elevated blood glucose levels exceed
the person’s tolerance to clear it promptly.
Another problem that we may be treating less seriously than we should is heart disease. One standard treatment is to prescribe statins to lower cholesterol. If elevated cholesterol is actually the cause, and many experts believe it is not, then we are again just treating symptoms. There is a double whammy here because not only is the treatment mostly ineffective (see statins in TheNNT.com) but the prescription could lead to a patient believing their condition is now effectively managed. The result being that they don’t bother with other prevention measures.
In 2010 Dr. Darrel Francis and colleagues suggested, and published in the American Journal of Cardiology, that fast-food outlets could give out statins to counteract the negative effects of their food. Likely this was just provocative but many medical experts reacted saying that this would mean people may believe they can just medicate away the harms of an unhealthy lifestyle.
Well guess what, many of our medical treatments just treat symptoms and may already encourage a belief that we can just medicate away the harms of an unhealthy lifestyle. If you are taking prescriptions which may be for life then, you might already be caught up in this false belief. Lifestyle changes are more likely to treat the root-cause.
Get free nutrition guidance or my book at www. takebackyrhealth.com. Seek professional medical advice before dietary changes, particularly if on medication.
George Elder, Diet Research Reviewer, Diploma in Nutrition. The best thing you can do for your health is eat better.
Recently I was invited to give a talk at a Garden Festival in the Wairarapa.
After a bit of thinking about what my topic could be I decided to talk about gardens 70-plus years ago when I was a kid growing up.
I grew up in the home of my Mother’s parents - it was a big house with a good size plot of land with a chicken house and coop and a good big vegetable garden.
The soil was rich and fertile having good amounts of chicken manure added to it every time the chicken house was mucked out.
There were no fruit trees as back then when the orchards in the Hawkes bay produced the seasons fruit my Mother would buy cases of fruit cheap and bottle it all.
The vegetable garden kept us in veggies and the hens with lots of eggs. A pantry full of preserves, jams and chutneys meant that we could weather any storm.
The soil was so full of worms that you could not put a spade in without cutting a few in half.
The humus level in the soil was so great it was like a giant sponge and when it rained it safely stored lots of water.
Good humus can hold water equivalent to about 90 percent of its own weight, acting like a sponge to retain moisture and prevent nutrients from being washed away.
This significantly increases a soil’s ability to withstand drought and makes water more accessible to plants, as the humus sponge holds water until the plant roots come into contact with it.
Thus even in dry summers we did not have to water the gardens which meant that the chlorinated tap water did not harm our worms and soil life and everything was lush and healthy.
The only problem in summer was white butterflies and it was my job with the aid of an old tennis racket to swipe them down and pick any caterpillars off the brassicas and feed then to the hens.
No man made fertilisers were used and there were no sprays needed, everything was natural and very healthy.
In holiday times I would go to my Uncle’s farm in Bell Block and also there everything was natural.
It was a dairy farm of about 100 acres running 100 cows and they were well off as no outgoing expenses for fertilisers or vet’s bills.
If you turned a cow pad over, under it would be several tiger worms breaking the manure down feeding the healthy grasses. There was a stream that ran though the top of the property and it was crystal clear
with mountain trout as long as your arm and eels as well.
No pollution of the water even though cows had access to it for drinking if in that paddock.
The nitrate from their urine feed the grasses as the biology was correct and maintained with a spread of lime every so often to keep the soil life happy.
I also spoke of the market gardeners who back in the 50’s and 60’s were mainly Chinese and having a school friend whose father was a Chinese market gardener with land in Awapuni on the outskirts of Palmerston North. In the weekend I would go there and help picking tomatoes and stuff.
The only Fertiliser used was real Blood & Bone from the freezing works, very dark in colour not like you see today that appears to be mostly chalk as the true blood & bone is made into meal for dog biscuits and such.
Back then if you cooked a cabbage it would stink the house out from the sulfur content in the cabbage.
Nowadays a cabbage from the supermarket you would not even know it has been cooked.
Science tells us we have lost about 80 percent of the nutritional value of our food chain compared to back in the 50’s.
What changed everything? Plants need phosphate for crucial functions like energy transfer (ATP), DNA and RNA formation, and cell division and growth, especially in roots, seedlings, and during seed and fruit development.
It is also vital for capturing and storing sunlight’s energy during photosynthesis and helps improve water use efficiency and stress resistance.
It comes naturally from bird and bat dung which sailing shops in days gone by would collect - Guano.
Guano is the term for the accumulated, dried excrement of seabirds and bats, valued as a highly effective, natural fertiliser rich in nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium essential for plant growth.
Natural Rock Phosphate which is mined and even when powdered is not readily available to plants for their phosphate needs but it was learnt by breaking it down with acid it was more readily available and thus Super Phosphate came into being.
But acid is very harmful on soil life and thus applications of Super Phosphate destroyed the essential soil life and along with man made nitrogen fertilisers which are used to increase the plant growth made more money for the growers and farmers at a tremendous cost to the soil life, the
plants, the animals that feed on grasses and plants, and us humans that sustain our lives from eating plants and animals. If plants need phosphate then we have Wally BioPhos which is natural rock phosphate broken down by microbes naturally.
Symptoms vary greatly when plants are deficient in phosphorus. In broadleaf plants, young leaves may be dark green and have purplish veins, especially on the underside of leaves.
Older leaves can develop an overall purplish tint and tip dieback. Leaves may be curled, distorted, smaller than normal, or drop prematurely.
To have gardens like our grandparents had we need to only use natural animal manures and compost. We need to avoid using things such as man made fertiliserssmall amounts are ok especially if applied with garden Lime to neturalise the acidic aspect.
Don’t use harmful chemical controls on plants or soil which includes herbicides such as glyphosate and do not water gardens with chlorinated tap water. Build the humus in the soil by applications of Mycorrcin and Wallys Fish Fertiliser.
Spray plants with Magic Botanic Liquid regularly.
Make your own liquid manure and dose it with Wallys Fish Fertiliser as it is teeming with beneficial microbes. There are also beneficial microbes in Wallys BioPhos.
Sprinkle a little BioPhos around your garden plants and you may be amazed at the response.
Nature is very powerful and if you work with her, she will quickly restore the soil life and you too can have great gardens like your Grandparents had.
Your rewards are great gardens and you and your family having a healthier and longer, happy life.
MBC 1STXV game 9th August. Taken from my gear bag in college pavilion, a blue polo shirt with referee on left side. Thanks very much. Enjoy wearing it.
In 1950, the Arab population of Israel was 167,000, by 2025, 2,144,000, increased by 12.83 times. These people have a life expectancy 10 years longer than in neighbouring countries and have higher incomes. They have the vote and MP’s in the Knesset. If our 1950 population 1,911.263 had increased at the same rate, we would now be a nation of 24,521,504! Over the same period, the Gaza population has grown at about the same rate, the UN reports that it grew by over 22,000 in the 2024 year.
You’re lucky then to be hearing them! Some ten or more years back the MDC came up with a “Tui to Town” promotion, encouraging the planting of natives. And then what did they do on the Taylor River banks? Planted exotics. Doh.
I’m sorry you are having this non-engaging experience. Yes, Blenhein has had this snobby ‘closed ranks’ Old Brigade thing going on. But I’ve just been walking along the Taylor River pathways - and EVERYONE had a smiley greeting, and would I’m sure have stopped for a chat.
There are lots of groups to join in Blenheim: Bridge, Mahjong, Choral group, a group meeting for coffee and chat - just check the paper for ‘what’s on’.
Where do I go to for MDC to tell us why the contract to repair has gone to a Nelson company and not one of our many locals that could do the work?
One of our rentals has a young family as tenants. Last inspection we noticed takeaway boxes, a Playstation with casettes and brand new TV. So much for hard times. We can’t accept that it is harder for this generation than ours. We worked hard to own this house. No frills whatsoever.
Got a WOF for my everyday garden type trailer the other day, $52 dollars! Not a bad sort of earner for 10 minutes work eh!
‘Thanks for Chat’ - txt talk The Sun. Yes, great page!
Recently the old Kaituna School, then later Kaituna Hall has been demolished. Sadly it had had zero maintenance for many years and later came under the ownership of the local iwi. I have made repeated calls to the iwi as to what happened to the Roll Of Honour that hung on the wall, being promised that the person in charge will contact me. Well after weeks of silence one can only presume that the words of arrogant digger driver were true, quote , “if it was in there it’s in the (obscenity) pile”. Surely that is no way to treat memories of people who fought for this country .
A plea to Marlborough District Council voters. Please let’s stay independent and keep away from Party Politics.
I would be pretty sure tennants want to move to Westwood, nothing to do with Council ‘letting them’.
The write up on 20-8-25 on page 5 was as interesting read. I went down there and asked them a few questions and they couldn’t even agree on the same opinion let alone know what they’re talking about.
The Palestinian flag is attached to hamas who are terrorists. The kinder world they talk about is not even on hamas radar. I have family in Israel and seeing that flag every Saturday is insulting. They are liars and are siding with the Islamic regime who treat women and children like trash. End of.
I can’t say I agree with Israel’s treatment of the Palistinians. But then again I don’t hear many calling for Hamas to surrender.
Yes, they have been inhabiting the area for thousands of years, just being there. And then the displaced Jews started arriving en-masse, wanting land. Britain, post WWI was administering the land and allowed the formation of the State of Israel, without formalising a State of Palestine - the West Bank. Golan Heights, and Gaza Strip including half of Jerusalem. And then walked out and left the chaos. Israel has been encroaching on Palestinian lands ever since.
Yes, it is a wonderful thing for Wairau Hospital to gain a dialysis unit, but to credit this to MP Stuart Smith is ridiculous. The reason it’s moving here is Nelson have no space for it due to building work, furthermore MPs don’t meddle in ‘operational matters’. Regarding “getting things done”, it was the overworked and underpaid staff in Nelson and Wairau hospitals who “got it done”.
Great to see the Random Directions Film Festival back at Event Cinemas on the 30th, always a good vibe, a good laugh and happy to support locally made. Great job to the oganisers and Events team, looking forward to the Film Festival.
As a visitor to your region I have to say kudos to you Blenheim on your lovely town, but I can’t and shan’t. My wife nearly died for slipping on endless prickly balls on the footpath. She is still ashen. Stay alert and watchful Blenheimites, the balls are afoot.
Hooray for Uber coming to Blenheim. Great for outlying areas without bus services i.e Renwick, giving more independence to locals and visiting tourist alike. Long awaited, very welcome.
We welcome your texts on 027 242 5266.
Limit to 70 words please. We reserve the right to publish at our discretion. Please note the opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Sun management.
Those who criticise that a 6 snapper recreational bag limit is too much miss the point. Ministry gave commercial a substantial increase but not recreational public. Why the discrimination? If the limit is 6, if the fish are good sized then be content with 3 or 4. The saying is “you don’t need to kill your limit, limit your kill.” Re: Poor service from 2 degrees Simple solution, get post office change of address, send new address plot No & cemetery location. Job done. This applies to all companies Govt. Included.
A flatmate who works for one of the major Supermarkets told me that they had to refill the tissue shelves on Sunday afternoon , we were trying to fathom out the reason for this rush on tissues , then somebody reminded us there was a rugby game played on Sunday morning.
Please help us find a new home for our Gymnasts in Marlborough.
Aug 20 Ladies 9 hole stableford
Marion Flynn 18 Eline Brown 17 Colleen McLeod 15 Jenny Adams 15 Yvonne Hore 14
Aug 21st Stableford Jesse Miller 38 Gary Ytsma 35 Tere Poa 34 Doug Shaw 34 Colin Pitkethley 34 Jim Findlay 33 Stuart McLagan 33 Buck
Asplet 33 Nigel Smith 33 9 holes
Stableford Mike McConnell 18 Dave Horrell 15 Ross Agnew 14
Aug 23 MDC Challenge Cup
Warren Ingram+ Robyn Breen 144
Ladies Medal Ida Beets-Huchshorn
70 Sue Duckworth 74 Men Medal
Tom Bainbridge 69 Roedolf Erasmus
70 Ray Herd 70 Luke Yarrall 70 Ross Agnew 73 Doug Shaw 73
Patrick Norton 74 Ezra Kahaki 74 Trent Davies 74 Jesse Miller 74 Norbert Thaler 74
Full-time experienced Indian Chef
WHat We’Re LookING FoR:
• Minimum 2 years’ experience in Indian cuisine, with a strong focus on tandoori and curry dishes
• Knowledge of authentic spices, techniques, and traditional recipes
• Ability to manage kitchen operations efficiently and work well under pressure
• A positive attitude, reliability, and team spirit
• Must be eligible to work in New Zealand WHat We oFFeR:
• Competitive salary based on experience
• A friendly and supportive team environment
• Opportunity to grow with a well-established restaurant
APPly Now – Send your CV and cover letter to: ram7593@gmail.com
Urgently seeking a GP to help refer me for a total hip replacement at Nelson Public Hospital. I’m based in Marlborough, willing to travel. No current GP.
Please contact 021 157 2679 or cpr441@hotmail.com
• Bathroom Renovation specialists.
• Full project management from start to finish.
• Competitive pricing.
• Quality workmanship & attention to detail guaranteed.
Want more than just a bathroom let us know!
LBP Licenced Builder/Carpenter Call: BATHROOMBOSS M: 0223533415 E: bathroomboss1@outlook.co.nz
Limping across Grove Rd & Main St, Blenheim.
Urgently need a Total Hip Replacement.
Pain is constant, mobility fading.
To activate my GiveAlittle page, I need 2 people to donate $1 each and share Account numbers.
I will repay. Ph 021 157 2679 Thank you for your support.
Clothing Alterations: by Lynette Atkinson-Parker
7pm Monday 8
027 578 1010
Pe NN yl AN e Records always buying records. Excellent prices paid, 430 Colombo Street, Sydenham, 366 3278, open 7days 7”, 45’s, singles, eps records wanted, any amount top prices paid. Pennylane Records 430 Colombo Street, Sydenham ring Dave 021 222 6144, 7 days. Wanted
SCouTS & Boys Brigade Memorabilia wanted. Patches, Blankets & Uniform all items considered Ph 0800 559922.
b o TT le S Wanted old ginger beer, marble codd type and others considered 0800 559922.
ruG by PROGRAMMES & BADGES Wanted small to large lots any rugby memorabilia considered ph 0800 559922.
TA x ID er M y wanted NZ - Exotic skins, heads, birds & mounted animals any considered ph 0800 559922.
CoSTu M e jewellery wanted, Glass beads, old brooches and pendants. All considered ph 0800 559922.
wATCH eS wanted. Wrist and pocket style, going or not. Any considered 0800 559922.
MASoNIC Freemason & Buffaloe Lodge items wanted. Badges, aprons, regalia & cases. Any considered ph Benjamin 0800 559922.
• Central Blenheim location
• Ground floor with kitchen and toilet facilities
• Close to cafes and car parking
• Two offices, side by side
• Office 1 2900 x 2900
• Office 2 3600 x 2900
• Short or long term leases Contact 03 577-7868
Out of zone applications for 2026
The Board of Trustees has determined that there are 25 places for out of zone students in years 0 and 1 in 2026. Enquiries should be made by contacting the school office on 03 578 7077 or email Loz at office@riverlands.school.nz
The deadline for applications is Wednesday 8th October 2025. If the number of out of zone applications exceeds the number of places available, students will be selected by ballot on the 15th October 2025
The school may hold termly ballots in 2026 if all 25 places are not filled.
CAMer AS wanted. Film type. Single cameras to whole collections modern and old Any considered ph Benjamin 0800 559922.
CoINS & Banknotes wanted. Pennies, Threepences NZ & foreign. All types. ph Ben 0800 559922.
Fou NTAIN pens wanted. Conway Stewart & Parker style. Any considered ph 0800 559922.
M e DA l S wanted. Military medals, Sports badges, Fire & Police items. Any medals & badges considered ph 0800 559922.
MI lITAry items wanted. Uniforms, Buttons, books, badges and photos any items considered ph 0800 559922.
NZ r New Zealand Railways items wanted. Badges, signs, uniforms & documents ph 0800 559922.
bAyoN eTS swords and pocket knives wanted. Modern and old. Any considered ph 0800 559922.
STAMPS first day covers and post cards wanted. Modern and old. Any considered ph 0800 559922.
reCorDS wanted. 33s, 12s, 45s. Modern and old. Any considered ph 0800 559922.
Tuesday 2 September
Urgent Care Centre: Wairau Hospital Grounds. Entry off Hospital Rd, Blenheim, 8am-8pm daily. Phone (03) 520 6377. Ambulance: Urgent 111. Non urgent 578 0797.
After Hours Chemists: Springlands Pharmacy: Monday - Friday 8.30am6pm. Saturday 9m - 5pm. Sunday closed. Public Holidays - phone us to be advised Community Care Pharmacy: Within the Blenheim Warehouse, open 7 days 9am6pm. Closed on Public Holidays. Lifeline Marlborough: 0800 543354, 24hr helpline.
Women’s Refuge and Sexual Violence Support Centre Marlborough: Crisis line number phone 0800 refuge or 03 5779939.
Victim Support: 0800 VICTIM (0800 842 846) Alcoholics Anonymous: 0800 AA WORKS - 0800 229 6757.
Citizens Advice Bureau: Free, friendly, confidential advice. Mon - Fri 9.30am4pm. Phone 578 4272.
Wairau Hospital: Hospital Visiting Hours: Daily 2.30pm - 8pm, children under 12 may visit parents only.
Maternity Ward: 10am-noon, 4pm-7pm. Children's Ward: Daily 10am-8pm. Visiting at all times is subject to the discretion of the nurse in charge of the ward. Emergency Dentist: Contact Wairau Hospital 5209999.
Picton:
Ambulance: Urgent 111. Non-urgent 579 4870.
Chemist: Picton Healthcare Pharmacy. Ph 573 6420 Mon -Fri 8.30-5.30pm, Sat 9-2pm. Medical Centre Pharmacy, Ph 928 4265, Mon-Fri 8am-5.30pm
The deadline is Monday 5.00pm. Please contact the Sun for further details. 72 High Street, Blenheim, email office@blenheimsun.co.nz or phone 577 7868. Remember your lost loved one on their anniversary.
Got an important issue to share with Marlborough? Text your thoughts to: 027 242 5266
LISSAMAN, Robert Bligh (Rob):
Passed away peacefully on Friday 15 August, 2025. Much loved son of Ivo and Dorothy, loved husband of Helen, father & father-in-law of Ben, Louise and Rachel, brother of Jane and Jim, grandpop of Isabella and Harry, great grandpop of Archie, and uncle, cousin, and friend. Special thanks to all the wonderful staff at Waterlea and Ashwood. Messages sent to 40 Nelson St, Mayfield, Blenheim 7201. A celebration of Rob’s life will be held at the Awatere Memorial Hall, Seddon – 1:00pm, Friday 5th September 2025.
ADRIAN, Murray William:
Passed away on Sunday 17th of August at home, aged 88 years. Loved partner of the late Yvonne, much loved father of Glenn and Jeremy and grandfather of Coner, Isla and Ottilie, a devoted brother and uncle. Messages to c/- Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, PO Box 9, Blenheim 7240 or www. cloudyabyfunerals.co.nz A private cremation has taken place and a memorial service for Murray has been held. The service was livestreamed and may be viewed on the website.
Bay Funerals
JEFFRIES, Mervyn Thomas Francis “Tom”: Passed away peacefully on Wednesday, 20th August 2025 at Springlands Lifestyle Village, Blenheim, aged 93 years. Dearly loved husband of Suzanne, father & father-in-law of Catherine, Antony & Karen, Paul & Paula, Chris & Amanda, and Mark & Melissa. Loved Grandad of Bede & Cassandra, Andrew & Bryony, Gus, Maddie, and Cosette. Cherished great grandfather of Fern, Fleur, Sage and Finlay. Brother and brother-inlaw to Marie and the late Ted Morgan and Therese and the late Jack Hocquard. Our heartfelt thanks to the nurses and staff of Springlands Lifestyle Village. Condolences and flowers may be sent c/- Suzanne Jeffries, Apartment 19, Springlands Lifestyle Village, 5 Battys Road, Blenheim or messages online to www.cloudybayfunerals. co.nz A Requiem Mass will be held Thursday 28th August, 1pm at St Mary’s Church, Maxwell Road, Blenheim, followed by interment at the Omaka Cemetery. A Rosary will be prayed Wednesday 27thAugust, 6pm at St Mary’s Church. The funeral for Tom will be livestreamed and can be viewed on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services website.
MARFELL, Kenneth Keith:
Passed away peacefully on Tuesday 19 August 2025 at Ashwood Park Retirement Village. Loved husband of Shirley and a cherished and special father and father-in-law of Craig and Jo; Deane and Jaslina; Wayne and Raewyn. Much loved brother and brother-in-law of the late Ivan and Janice; Terry and June; Valerie and John; Kae and the late Mike. Adored Grandad to Jonathan, Matthew, Jenna, Dylan, Joel and Tess. A loved uncle to all his nieces and nephews. Messages to c.marfell@icloud.com or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz A special thank you to the staff at Ashwood Park. In accordance with Ken’s wishes, a private cremation has been held.
THOMAS, Peter Henry:
Passed away on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at home with his beloved wife. Aged 85 years. Loved husband of Irene. Loved father of Jeremy, Bruce, Kerry, and Nigel. Loved grandfather, great grandfather and great, great grandfather. A service for Peter was held at Picton Union Parish on Sunday, August 24.
KETT, Judith Grace:
NICHOLL, Wayne Lewis (Bunge):
On Friday 22nd August 2025 Wayne (aged 81) died peacefully at Hospice Marlborough surrounded by his family and friends. Treasured Husband of Marie Normile. Father of the late Glencora McConnell and Grandfather of Niamh McConnell. Loved stepfather of Richard, James Normile and Natalie Poa. Much loved Koro Wayne to Sadie, Kieryn, RJ, Richard, Christina and 4 great grandchildren. Loved brother and brother-in-law of Lauren and David Buick, Robin Nicholl, Lyn and the late Will Robson, Cindy and Mike Mehlhopt, and Rex and Rose Nicholl. Loved uncle of his nephews and nieces. A special thank you to the wonderful, caring staff at HOSPICE Marlborough. Flowers or donations to the Marlborough Hospice Trust are welcome and donations can be made via their website or at the funeral service. Messages to 11 Gascoigne Street, Riversdale Blenheim 7201 or www.cloudybayfunerals. co.nz. A Celebration of Wayne’s life will be held Wednesday the 27th of August, 1pm at Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services Blenheim, followed by interment at Fairhall Cemetery. This service will be livestreamed and can be viewed on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services website.
To friends and family of our late Mum (Judy), we wish to thank all of you for your kindness, support and condolence’s we received. We also send our gratitude and appreciation to Cloudy Bay and to the Staff at Redwood Retirement Home.
KERR, Nova: Passed away at Springlands Lifestyle Village on August 17th 2025, in her 97th year. Dearly beloved wife of the late Allan Marans Kerr, treasured mother and mother-inlaw of Jan and Andrew, Allan John and Allison, and Don and Wendy, and much loved grandmother of Jacinta and Andy, and Allan Robert and Michelle. Special great grandmother of Evie, Finley and Allan Michael. Messages may be sent c/o The Kerr Family, PO Box 5054, Springlands, Blenheim or www.cloudybayfunerals.co,nz Flowers can be sent to Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, 15 Boyce St, Blenheim. A celebration of Nova’s life has been held. The service was livestreamed and can be viewed on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services website.
REEVES, Phillip Thomas: Sunrise 10 June 1948. Sunset 24 August 2025. A life full of love and laughter to give. Phil found peaceful rest with whānau by his side. Much loved and precious husband to Elaine for 52 years. Loved son of the late Henry Thomas and Hannah Julia Reeves. Brother to Lena Charters (deceased), Miria Howard (deceased), Cairo Grenfell (deceased), Maui (deceased), Christina Keenan and Colin. Loved father to Deon and Kelly, and Simon. Loved Koro to Alena, Sunny, Maggie, and Ziggy. Messages to c/- www. cloudybayfunerals.co.nz Phillip will be home at 19 Terrace Road, Renwick and friends and whānau are warmly welcome to visit and pay respects on Thursday 28th and Friday 29th August from 12 noon. On Saturday 30th August he will make his final journey to Cloudy Bay Funeral Services for his service at 2pm followed by a private cremation. The service will be livestreamed and can be viewed on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services website.
BRIDGMAN, Brian Edward: Tuesday, July 29, 2025.
FENN, John Richard: Thursday, July 31, 2025.
WATSON, Janice Margaret: Monday, August 4, 2025
FALEAFAGA, Siaki: Saturday, August 02, 2025
POTAKA, Tenga Shane: Friday, August 08, 2025.
LEWIS, Gloria June (née Huston: Monday, August 04, 2025.
PHILLIPS, Maureen Val (née Dobias): Tuesday, August 12, 2025
SAUNDERS, Harold Blakewell: Saturday, August 16, 2025
LISSAMAN, Robert Bligh (Rob): Friday, August 15, 2025.
THOMAS, Peter Henry: Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Thursday
Marlborough Museum
- Brayshaw Heritage, New exhibition, HOMECOMING - Memories of ‘45. Exhibition open Tues/Thurs/Sundays 11-3pm. Cost of entry $10, children free.
Older Persons Seminar
– Held on the 4th Thursday of each month, 10am-1pm, St Christopher’s Anglican Church. A seminar for people ages 65+, with a guest speaker, entertainment and light-hearted fun. Morning tea and lunch provided for $6.
Marlborough Camera Club
- meetings on 2nd Thursday of the month at St Mary’s Community Centre, Maxwell Rd at 7pm. Workshops are held on the 4th Thursday of the month. Everybody with an interest in photography welcome.
Cancer Society Marlborough: Women partners of men living with cancer Support Group - Coffee and connecting. Peer support for women partners of men living with cancer. Every third Thursday of the Month 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm. Cancer Society Rooms, 76A Maxwell Road, Blenheim.
Picton Poets
– Held the 4th Thursday of the month, 10.3011.30am, Picton Library, all welcome. Phone Lyn 021 129 4342.
Keep U Moving
- Gentle indoor walking exercise for seniors. 11.30am-12.30pm $3.00. St Christopher’s Church Hall, 92 Weld St. Ph 0273852333 or donna@stchristophers.co.nz
Social Badminton Club
- 9am-11.30 Thursday mornings. Simcox Stadium, Battys Road. $6. All adults welcome. For more details phone Cathy 021 503 348. Ulysses Retreads Group
-11am at Brayshaw Park every Thursday. Ride to various destinations for lunch. Bring your laughing gear, a thermal to wear and a story to share.
Library Book Club
- 6.30pm-8pm Marlborough District Library. We meet on the last Thursday of the month. Simply bring a book to recommend to other members, and enjoy listening to other member’s (including librarians) book picks.
Picton Library Book Club
- 6.30pm-8pm - Picton Library and Service Centre. Join us in meeting new people and chatting about books. We meet on the first Thursday of each month. To register email pictonlibrary@marlborough.govt.nz.
Knit and Natter
- Marlborough Library from 10am. Come along and join the friendly group of social knitters upstairs in the library each Thursday morning. Bring along your knitting project and/or get inspiration from other knitters. No need to register.
Company Café
– Picton Library 10.30am Thursdays. Pop in and spend a while with us chatting, chilling and relaxing. Tea, coffee and snack provided. Everybody welcome.
Blenheim Nightriders
- Weekly, local, off-road bike rides 10-40kms for fitness, social and safety. Meet at the library, leaving 8pm for approx 2hrs. No fee, super casual. More info on Facebook, Blenheim Nightriders group or contact info@ ridethewhale.co.nz
Blenheim Bible Education - 7:00-8:00pm [TIME CHANGE], Marlborough Library. Free Bible Seminar. Prior contact appreciated, but walk-ins welcome. Contact: info@ blenheimbibleeducation.nz. Website: www. blenheimbibleeducation.nz.
Friday
Blenheim Family History Group in Picton
- At Picton Library on the 1st and 3rd Friday of the month, 1.30pm-3.30pm. Need help with your family history research? Meet members of the Blenheim Family History Group. Contact
Helen 0210390106.
Marlborough Vintage and Farm Machinery Society
- Brayshaw Heritage Park, open weekdays 10.00 am - 3.00 pm and Saturday mornings. For further details contact Gerard (Secretary) 022 039 2460.
Classic Coffee
– Weekly at Connect Marlborough, 3 Beaver Road. 9am-12pm. A group of mainly retirees who enjoy connecting with others in the same stage of life but if you are younger or still in the work force, don’t let that stop you!
Link Board games and Puzzles
– 1pm-4pm Nativity Lounge, Church of the Nativity, 76 Alfred Street. A time of board games and afternoon tea. No strangers here, only friends we have not met. Gold coin donation is appreciated. Transport to and from Link can be arranged if needed, phone 5783909
Tunes 4 Tots
– every Friday during term time 9.30am10.30am. Music, play and morning tea for 0-6 year olds. Donation of $3 per child/$5 per family. Nativity Church, 76A Alfred Street. For more information contact 5783909
Play and Learn
– Blenheim Library 9am-12pm during term time. No cost. Care-giver led play-based learning for children under 5. Books, toys, games, puzzles and activities available for use.
Picton Quilters, meeting at Queen Charlotte College Saturday 16 August, 9.30am-4.00pm. This is a workday, new prospective members welcome. For more information please contact Lynne 0274316630.
Redwoodtown Market
- 8am-12 noon, Cleghorn St. Supporting Marlborough Food Bank. Variety of stalls. Something for everyone.
Marlborough Quilters meeting
- every 2nd Saturday of the month at Marlborough Vintage and Farm Machinery, Brayshaw Park. 10am - 4pm. Learn quilting or bring your own projects. Sewing Machines available. Newcomers welcome. Liz 0212067382.
Blenheim Chess Club
- Meets at Table Top Café, Scott Street, every Saturday 10am – 1pm. All welcome.
Ulysses Club
- Every Saturday, coffee at The Runway Café, Woodbourne, 10am. Depart The Runway at 10.30am.
The Blenheim Rotary Club Boot Sale Market
- 8am till midday. Blenheim Railway Station Car Park.
Marlborough Artesian Craft Market
- Cnr Market Street & High Street, 9:00am2:00pm Stallholders include local artisans both casual and regular attendees as well as visitors from around the country. Entertainment area for kids.
Sunday
Marlborough Thermette Society Winter boil ups
- Simonsen Reserve down Malthouse Lane off SH 1, Riverlands from 2.00 on August 31. Bring food to share, a camp chair and a thermette if you have one. Kids and dogs welcome. Bill 0277108229
Marlborough Museum - 11am-3pm every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday. Adults $10, children free. The Museum celebrates an inspiring collection of items which tell the story of Marlborough and its people. Marlborough Farmers’ Market
- 9am-noon. Marlborough A&P Showgrounds.
Fresh produce from your local farmers. Tasty line up of fresh and seasonal, gourmet and artisan produce and products that this region has to offer.
Picton Rail and Sail
- On the Foreshore - mini train rides and mini yacht hire to sail on our pond every Sunday
11am-3pm. Only 20 cents per ride/yacht hire!
Blenheim Bonsai Group
- Islington Gardens, Rowberry Road on the 2nd Sunday of the month 1pm-3.30pm.
Riverside Railway, Brayshaw Park Station
– Train is being hauled on Sunday August 17th by a Vintage Diesel Engine on the Omaka Line at 1.15pm and on the Beaver Line along the Taylor River at 1.45pm. Check Details at www. riversiderailway.nz and Facebook for other information and updates following the flooding Marlborough Tennis Club
– Social Tennis. 3pm-5pm Parker Street. Non Members $2. All welcome. Contact 027 578 6436 for information.
Ulysses Social Ride
- Sunday rides are now by WhatsApp under Marlborough Ulysses lets ride. All rides are weather dependent.
Lego Club
- Picton Library@ 1-4pm. Marlborough Library
@10am-4pm, Come along each Sunday afternoon to build a Lego kit in the Library. Each week there is an assortment of kits to choose from to build in a designated area. Everyone is welcome to have a go. This free activity is great fun for the whole family!
Marlborough Vintage Car Club Museum
- 1:30-3:30pm, Brayshaw Park, Arthur Baker Pl, Blenheim. Other times by arrangement. Ph Ross 0272122902. Donation appreciated. New members welcome
Monday
Care and Share craft session
- Run at Nativity in conjunction with Green Prescription. Every second Monday until December 9:30-11:30 am. For anyone who loves doing crafts, a place to create, chat with like-minded creatives, share ideas, learn new crafting skills and make friends. For more details contact Nativity office 578 3909 or Green Prescription at the PHO. Free event.
Target Rifle Shooting
- Athletic Park Range. Blenheim Club 7pm, cost $10, contact 02102464417.
Table Tennis
- every Monday at the Tua Marina Hall, Tua Marina 6.00pm - 8.00pm $5 per person. Contact Janice 027 422 9095
Marlborough Stamp Collectors Club
- 34 Arthur Baker Pace. Phone 021 157 3496 for more information.
Rotary Clubs in Blenheim
- Monday & Tuesday evenings at 5.30pm. Rotary is a world-wide service club for men and women, doing great things in your community. For further details phone Kevin on 0211 738 784.
Blenheim Scottish Country Dance Club
- Every Monday at 7.00pm at St Andrews Church Hall, Corner Alfred and Henry Street, Blenheim. Come and try it! You don’t need a partner. For information ring Heather 02102587325.
Whitehead Park Bowling Club Redwoodtown
- Monday afternoons from 12.30pm to 3pm. All welcome. Contact Mike 572 4013 or John 577 5295.
Beginners Line Dancing
- Senior Citizen Hall, 172 High Street, 2:003:00pm & 6.00-7.00pm. Come along and enjoy the music, make new friends, have fun and learn to dance. You don’t need a partner. All welcome men, women and children over 12. The first lesson is free for new beginner’s then $7 per class. For information phone Judith 5787554 or 0212341095.
Tuesday
Friendship Club Marlborough
- Semi Retired or Retired. Meet 4th Tuesday of the month 10am at St Mary’s Parish Centre, Maxwell Road. Speakers, outings all in Friendship, Fellowship & Fun. Les McKay 5778307 or 021463922
Table Tennis
- Blenheim Indoor Sports Centre. Table Tennis
Marlborough FarMers’ Market - 9am-noon. Marlborough a &P s howgrounds. Fresh produce from your local farmers. tasty line up of fresh and seasonal, gourmet and artisan produce and products that this region has to offer.
session every Thursday, 6.30pm - 8.30pm, $6 per person to be paid at front desk.
Blenheim Badminton Club - Tuesdays from 7-8.30pm for adults at Marlborough Boys’ College Gym. Junior Club in Terms 2 & 3 on Tuesdays from 6-7pm, also at MBC Gym. For more information visit: www.sporty.co.nz/ blenheimbadminton
Target Rifle Shooting
- Athletic Park Range. Services Club 7.00pm, cost $10, contact 0276522640.
Cancer Society Marlborough: Blue Brothers – Men’s exercise and comraderyFREE exercise and peer support - Every Tuesday -10 am Stadium 2000, Kinross Street, Blenheim. Cancer Society Marlborough: Breast Cancer Support Group - Peer support and connection in a safe welcoming space. Every second Tuesday of the Month 7pm - 8pm at the Cancer Society Rooms, 76 A Maxwell Road, Blenheim.
Marlborough Museum - 11am-3pm. Adults $10, children free. The Museum celebrates an inspiring collection of items which tell the story of Marlborough and its people.
Steady As You Go:
St Christopher’s Community Eldercare. This class is currently full. Unable to take new members at this time. Enquires: 027 385 2333 donna@ stchristophers.co.nz
Toastmasters Club
- In Blenheim meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday, 6:30pm, Community Centre, St Mary’s, 59 Maxwell Road. Friendly group that encourages people. Learn how to give a speech, how to tell stories, how to make business presentations etc. Ideal for young people entering the workforce. Older adults are welcome to share their experiences. No charge for guests. Contact: Vivienne 021 0544003.
Marlborough Tennis Club –Social Tennis Parker Street. Every Tuesday 8.30am to midday. Morning Tea at 10am. Non Members $5. All Welcome. Contact 0275786436.
Lions Club of Havelock
- Providing community service in the Pelorus area. Meeting every 3rd Tuesday, at Havelock Hotel. Inquiries to Ian Cameron phone 574 2558.
Knitters and Spinners
- Picton Library and Service Centre from 10.30am. Bring your morning tea along and current project to work on. Share your ideas, skills or simply enjoy time with fellow creators. There’s no need to book a spot, simply turn up on the day.
Cheeky Monkeys
- Marlborough Library. Join one of our sessions of fun and creativity for children under five years old. Session 1,10am to 10.45am or Session 2, 11am to 11.45am Sessions include stories, songs and simple fun craft. No need to register, just come along.
Picton Line Dancing - 10-11.30am. Anglican Church Hall $7 per class. Beginners welcome. Phone Carol 0212125252 or Raewyn 021715484.
Renwick Arms Country Club, Card Section
- 1pm Redwood Tavern, Cleghorn Street. Meet and play EUCHRE. Beginners are welcome to learn and play. $7 Ph Christine 0272077631.
Pencil Pals
- meets at Connect, corner of High Street and Beaver Road every Tuesday 1.00 to 3.00pm. Come and join Sydney and Issie to practice your drawing skills and enjoy the company of like-minded people. Sydney 0211568398; Issie 0204668008.
Marlborough Community Singers
– All welcome whether completely new or an old hand. No audition. New term begins Wednesday July 16th at REAP, 6.30pm8.30pm. $9 casual. Ph Amanda 022 642 4805 Digital Drop-in
– Every Wednesday 10am-12pm Marlborough Library. Bring your device and staff will be happy to help you with questions you may have about using your smartphone or other device.
Blenheim Probus – First Wednesday of the month, 10am Lansdowne Hub. For retired or semi retirees looking for fun, friendship and fellowship. Ph Anne 5787046, 0226353919. Indoor Bowls
– Every Wednesday 7pm at The Foundry, John Street, until mid September. Equipment and instruction provided. 0223804730 for more information.
Target Rifle Shooting - Athletic Park Range. Riverside Club 7pm, cost $10, contact 021667746.
Genealogy Drop–in – with the Blenheim Family History Group. Marlborough Library, Wednesday afternoons 1pm-3pm. No appointments needed.
Cancer Society Marlborough: Live Stronger - Women’s exercise, peer support and wellbeing for women living with cancer. Wednesdays 6pm - 6:45 pm. Well & Good, 1 Grove Road. Blenheim. Cost $5 members, $10 casual. Stretch & Breathe: St Christopher’s Community Eldercare. This class is currently full. Unable to take new members at this time. 027 385 2333 donna@ stchristophers.co.nz
Lions’ Club of Blenheim - Like to know more about the Lion’s Club? Meet on the1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month. For more details Contact Delphine Lee 029 942 5004.
Picton Mahjong - Marina Cove Club Room, 53 Waikawa Road, Picton at 1pm. Phone Adrianne 02102591639 or Kaye 0211312331 for more information.
Whitehead Park Bowling Club, Redwoodtown - 9.30am to 12noon. Mixed roll – ups, all welcome, contact Bob 577 9436. Summer timetable starts October. Blenheim Rock N Roll Club Nights - 7.30-9.30pm: Top of the South Rock n Roll Club, club nights at the Blenheim Bowling Club, bring comfy shoes and water. Great music, have fun and exercise at the same time. Phone Erin 0272341709. Picton Scottish Country Dance Group7.30pm at Picton Little Theatre. Beginners welcome. First night free. No partner needed just a pair of soft soled shoes. Phone Lynda on 0212600860 for further information.
Marlborough Vintage Car Club -1:30-3:30pm, Brayshaw Park, Arthur Baker Pl, Blenheim. Other times by arrangement. Ph Ross 0272122902. Donation appreciated. New Members welcome
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