August 8 2025 The Blenheim Sun

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August 6, 2025 | LOCAL PEOPLE - LOCAL VIEWS - LOCAL NEWS

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From left, William Hawker, Evalyn Hawker, Witherlea School Acting Principal Kate Deane, New World Blenheim owner, operator Tineke Powell, Theo Sheard and Rose Powell are excited about the upcoming raffle.

Photo: Paula Hulburt.

Story page 8.

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Making an exhibition of themselves Titled 8 Go to Town, the free exhibition opens at A group of talented Picton 5-Tapped in Blenheim from artists are set to showcase 6 August running until the their work in a bid to attract end of the month. new audiences.

Caro Della Porter, whose Artists Vonny Paul, Carli obold, worksNwere nheim O 1part Slice off Banlequirky Lewis, Sue Syme Caro Della Open Studio for reaevent dershin ip Porter, Benjamin Tolmie, November, said showing T R U S Emma Munro, Lyn Saul and their art further afieldTwas EDa in o Val Griffith Jones are excited positive step. fourroregion ver to be holding an exhibit “It will give these 22 yeaestabrs together for the first time. lished artists wider expo-

sure, and new audiences.

Marlborough artists need more public spaces for exhibiting.”

Val Griffith Jones, known for her semi-abstract landscape paintings said the space at 5-Tapped lent itself well to a group show.

“Owner Hayden has been very helpful and welcoming.

We’d like to emphasise our gratitude to him, and his

By Paula Hulburt

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By Chris Valli

has received six Domino’s Blenheim annual at the company’s prestigious awardslast week. awards ceremony announced at Domino’s The awards were Zealand annual Rally Coast Australia and New hosted at the Gold with event, which was Exhibition Centre, Convention and from both sides of the teams Domino’s the ceremony.

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Manand ANZ CEO and Domino’s Group Meij, Blenheim’s Luke aging Director Don OO Kerri omino’s ANZ C D obs on an d D Hayman.

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team,” she said.

Head along throughout August to see eight very different styles of work ranging from thought-provoking oil paintings to large scale bird paintings.

“Some are nervous,” Val said “but we’re all excited to be exhibiting together. Feedback is welcome and we all hope for good conversations at the opening.

rebecca@blenheimsun.co.nz

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The Blenheim

Wednesday August 6, 2025

Nurses at breaking point over excessive workloads

By Paula Hulburt

Health care assistants are filling vital care gaps left by overloaded nurses struggling with excessive workloads.

Marlborough members of the New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO) joined colleagues across the country last week in a 24-hour strike.

About 60 nurses, midwives and health care assistants (HCAs) picketed in Blenheim town centre to highlight their concerns over inadequate staffing levels.

Health care assistant Heather Gaby, who works on the Inpatients ward at Wairau Hospital, said HCAs had taken on duties which nurses used to do.

Time pressures meant they often missed out on break times too, she added.

“We work through as we feel that the patients should come first. There’s constant demand to help the nurses with patients.

“Our core workload increased to take on some of the nurses’ responsibilities such as doing ECGs and taking blood pressures. The money we get didn’t go up.”

Colleague Wendy Gibson became a health care assistant at Wairau Hospital as she was considering becoming a nurse.

But three and a half years later, after seeing the working con-

3

inbrief

The Sun

Pie delights Well done to Matt Nofoasaefa at Blenheim’s Unfiltered Café. Matt’s creamy leek and chicken pie has impressed judges, making the top ten at the Bakels Supreme Pie Awards last week. Next year, the Park Terrace team are aiming for a top three place.

Fundamentals of caring The Stadium 2000 Fundamentals Programme has been selected for Z Energy’s Good in the Hood community program. Z service station gives away $5000 to four local community groups.

Customers vote for their favourite group using tokens provided with instore purchases. Voting begins on 26 August at Z Grove Road.

Appeal takes off

Health Care Assistants Wendy Gibson and Heather Gaby joined in strike action with their nursing colleagues. Photo: Paula Hulburt.

ditions nurses endure, she no longer wants to, she said.

“I see the pressure that nurses are under and the pressure their workloads cause too.

“The cost has also put me off and I’d have a student loan to pay off.”

Wendy said it was disappointing Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora were not supporting graduate nurses who then left to

work overseas.

One registered nurse at the protest, who asked not to be named, said she had done two three-month stints in Australia.

She earned $6000 AUD which was double what she could earn in New Zealand.

An NCO spokeswoman said the union’s major concerns centred around staff levels.

“Nurses are working under

ridiculous circumstances. People are leaving work in tears; they’re having a really tough time.”

She said there were not enough nurses to safely care for the number of patients, especially those with complex needs.

Striking is not a decision members made lightly she added.

“This isn’t about money, it’s about making sure patients receive safe and timely care.”

A record amount has been raised by the community for New Zealand’s rescue helicopters. New Zealanders dug deep to raise a record $1.5m for the national network of rescue helicopters during the Westpac Chopper Appeal. $33,474 was raised in Nelson and Marlborough for the Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter Trust.

Many hands Congratulations to students at Queen Charlotte College for lending their helping hands to Envirohub. Volunteers helped clean up Picton Foreshore and Shelley Beach as part of their Litter Intelligence program with Sustainable Coastlines. The students not only picked up unwanted rubbish but have carried out an audit on what they picked up.

4 Wednesday August 6, 2025

inbrief

The Sun

Airport car park Thirty-minute free parking will continue at Marlborough Airport, but charges for the short-term car park are changing. The short-term car park has reopened following improvements to pedestrian safety, traffic flow, drainage, paving and the addition of an outdoor seating area. Contractors will continue works this month at the front of the terminal to widen the pedestrian footpaths. Airport visitors should be using the re-opened short-term car park for pick-ups and drop offs. Long-term parking rates remain unchanged, except now the second hour’s charges begin after 90 minutes instead of 60 minutes.

Election Nominations Candidates standing for the 2025 elections are confirmed as Mayor: Shaun Brown (Money Free Party New Zealand), Ni Fruean, and Nadine Taylor. Blenheim Ward: Cathie Bell, Tasmin Cooper, David Croad, Deborah Dalliessi, Brian Dawson, Cyril Dawson, Ni Fruean, Dominique Greenslade (Independent), John Hyndman (ACT Local: Real Change. Lower Rates), Buks Lundt, Nyara Nyajena, Aimee Payne, Vish Prasad, Thelma Sowman, Benjamin Stace and Bob Watson. Marlborough Sounds Ward: Greg Billington, Barbara Faulls, Scott Fuller (Independent), Raylene Innes, Anteisha O’Connell and Malcolm Taylor (ACT Local: Real Change. Lower Rates.) Wairau-Awatere Ward: Scott Aams, Sally Arbuckle and Gerald Hope.

Marlborough Māori Ward: Allanah Burgess. The elections are held by postal vote, beginning on Friday 9 September and closing at 12 noon on Saturday 11 October.

The Blenheim

Phone service strife for pensioner

By Paula Hulburt

A fed-up business owner has warned people to be on their guard after a payment error cost him his mobile phone service.

Ron Floyd had been a 2degrees customer for almost four years and had always paid his bill, he said.

But after accidentally paying $30 into an old account, his service was restricted and late fees piled up.

The fed-up pensioner has now ditched 2degrees and moved to Spark.

It’s not the amount, he said, but the principle.

“They had our money but couldn’t say where it was.

It was our fault for paying it into the wrong account but why was it so hard to reallocate it?

“I’m running a business and had to use my partner’s phone to carry on when I have paid my bill. It was very concerning and costly to my business.

Ron runs a knife-sharpening business from home and needs his mobile phone for keeping in contact with customers.

He said despite assurances from 2degrees to sort out the problem, his service was restricted. It took a week for it to be reinstated.

Ron said he had emailed the company and called three times only to be fobbed off.

‘I’d like to apologise to all my customers who hadn’t been able to get hold of me,” he said.

“Each phone call to 2degrees lasted about an hour and imagine if, for example, 1000 customers lose $30, it soon adds up over time.

“They say they’re ‘fighting for fair’ but not in this case.”

The Blenheim Sun contacted 2degrees for comment.

Ron Floyd has now switched providers after on-going issues with 2degrees.

Photo: Paula Hulburt

The Blenheim

Wednesday August 6, 2025

Cash is king for stallholder turned MP

By Paula Hulburt

Growing concerns over service providers refusing cash payments has prompted a Blenheim list MP to take action.

New Zealand First List MP Jamie Arbuckle is spearheading the Cash Transactions Protection Bill.

If adopted into Government, the move would ensure businesses would have to accept physical notes and coins.

The former Blenheim Councillor said he wanted to protect people’s freedom of choice.

“It should be no surprise to anyone as I come from a background of selling produce where cash is king.

“I’m not trying to replace electronic transactions but cash is legal tender. It’s not an opt in or opt out of system.”

The Bill calls for cash to be an option in all transactions up to $500 at a time. There should be no upper limit for fuel and groceries.

“By putting a stake in the ground I’m saying it’s not an opt in or opt out of issue. People will just have more choice,” Jamie said.

“I’m one of these people who always like to have some cash on me, there’s a comfort level

in that, especially in emergency situations.”

Jamie said he was proud of the proposed Bill as it was one that all New Zealanders could relate to.

“I really wanted to do something that many New Zealanders are affected by. Since I announced it, the number of comments and people who have reached out has been enormous.”

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand says service providers are under no obligation to accept cash.

But they must clearly inform customers in advance that they don’t accept cash before they start shopping or receive services.

Cash is a critical tool for vulnerable populations like those in rural communities, the elderly and low-income earners, Jamie said.

These populations may experience barriers to digital banking.

“It’s particularly relevant here in Marlborough as rural communities have seen the closure of smaller banks,” Jamie said.

“This recognises that a person may chose to pay by cash to also protect their personal privacy.”

The Bill will join Parliament’s ceremonial lottery, where Jamie

5

inbrief

The Sun

Science Scholarships Applications have opened for 2026 On Farm Support Science Scholarship. MPI’s director of On Farm Support Vanessa Winning says there are six scholarships, worth a total of $30,000 available for the 2026 academic year to tertiary students enrolled in relevant agriculture, horticulture, science, or viticulture degrees. Applications for the scholarships close on 15 September 2025. Further information is available on MPI’s website: https://www.mpi.govt.nz/about-mpi/ our-work/mpi-scholarships-and-awards/ on-farm-support-science-scholarships.

Wine honour Congratulations to Mark Allen who has been named on the New Zealand Winegrowers annual honours list of New Zealand Winegrowers Fellows. Moving to Marlborough in 2004, Mark established his own advisory company. Since then, he has supported clients across Marlborough, Hawke’s Bay, and Central Otago with vineyard development, management advice, and grower liaison. Mark remains a respected industry presenter and works closely with New Zealand Winegrowers and Bragato Research Institute.

NZ First List MP Jamie Arbuckle has written a Member’s Bill to protect people’s right to use cash. Photo: Paula Hulburt

said he hopes it will be plucked randomly from “the biscuit tin.”

While this is a way to ensure every New Zealand legislator has the chance to advance a proposed

law, Jamie said if his Bill wasn’t selected it would become part of NZ First’s party manifesto.

“This will only become a bigger issue in years to come.”

Road repairs During and following the weather events of late June/early July Marlborough Roads crews have been out in force across the network. Marlborough Roads’ System Manager Wayne Oldfield said the initial event, which started on 27 June, saw more than 40 roads closed due to flooding and damage.

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The Blenheim

Doctors’ vision for healthcare recognised

By Paula Hulburt

Two Blenheim doctors have been recognised for their outstanding efforts in improving health outcomes across the community.

Manu Ora co-founders and clinical directors Dr Sara Simmons and Dr Rachel Inder have been celebrated with one of the highest honours in general practice.

The pair were formally recognised at the RNZCGP Conference in Ōtautahi Christchurch at the end of July, receiving the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners ‘Community Service Medal.

The move comes just years after the pair set out to break down barriers preventing people achieving good health outcomes.

“I think the main barriers are about cost and timely access but are also hugely about building a trusted relationship with a health professional that they know and feel comfortable with,” Rachel said.

The duo set up Manu Ora in partnership with Te Piki Oranga with a mission to create an inclusive practice. The practice is run as a charity, with fundraising accounting for more than 70 per cent of running costs.

Winning the award was a “huge

surprise,” Rachel said, paying tribute to their staff.

“Honestly, it’s our privilege to practice in this way. Even though we might take the reins it really is about the community and the amazing mahi the team does.”

Sara echoed the sentiment, saying it felt unusual to get individual recognition for work the whole team does.

“Rachel and I do have a lot of responsibility but the awesome thing about it was that we were recognised together and that made it feel way more special, this kind of mahi takes a team.”

The doctors received the award in recognition of their leadership and dedication to health equity in Marlborough, primarily among Māori and Pasifika patients.

‘What we do particularly well in terms of experience is we build really strong relationships with our whānau in the practice and by making a lot of time getting to know them and them getting to know us,” Sara said.

From longer consultations, wraparound support and outreach initiatives, the team hope their hard work will benefit those disillusioned about the health care system.

“Better health outcomes come further down the track. It takes

The Manu Ora team led by Dr Sara Simmons, back row, left, and Dr Rachel Inder, third row, left, work together to help break down barriers to health care. Photo: Supplied.

time to turn the tide,” Sara said.

“Many whānau have been really disengaged, disenfranchised, disempowered because of negative health experiences in the past.

“At the moment I’m just really, really loving work and loving what we do every day and that’s really special.”

Rachel added they would like to

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see their model of service expanded but they had to be careful not to “dilute the dream.”

“We are a close-knit team that have each other’s backs and trust each other implicitly. The moment you start working as a giant machine, that dynamic gets diluted.”

Presenting the awards, RNZCGP’s President Dr Luke Brad-

ford said health is not a one-size fits all approach.

“These recipients have highlighted the innovative and successful ways they are working towards achieving health equity.”

Manu Ora has also just been announced as a finalist in the prestigious New Zealand Primary Healthcare Awards.

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The Blenheim

Wednesday August 6, 2025

7

Summerset Blenheim Open Days 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.

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Village centre render image is an artist impression only.

Homes sold under licence to occupy, subject to availability. Summerset does not offer rental accommodation. Care subject to eligibility.

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8 Wednesday August 6, 2025

The Blenheim

School’s super idea to market raffle

By Paula Hulburt

Will it be butter, will it be cheese?

Whatever free groceries items you want in your trolley, time is running out to grab a raffle ticket.

Witherlea School are holding their popular Grocery Grab again to raise money for the school.

And the clock is ticking as final ticket sales end on Friday.

Organised by Friends of Witherlea, the main prize is a two-minute Grocery Grab at New World supermarket, courtesy of Greg Flannery and Tineke Powell.

Second prize is a one-minute 30 second trolley run and third prize a one-minute dash around the aisles.

The student who sells the most tickets will also win a Grocery Grab.

Witherlea Acting Principal Kate Deane said the donation from New World was “next level.”

“It’s really mind blowing. It’s next level fabulous. The effort the Friends of Witherlea put in to get it up and running is great.

“The kids are just so invested in it.

Every morning, we have new people running in with ticket sales, it’s an amazing hype.

“For us as a school it means extra funds for things that we would not

Witherlea School students, from left, William Hawker, Evalyn Hawker, Theo Sheard and Rose Powell with some of the goodies raffle winners may be able to grab. Photo: Paula Hulburt.

have without it.”

This year, money raised has been earmarked for an upgrade to the school pool’s filtration system, cultural activities and to support new curriculum changes.

“The kids are adamant that they are going for the lolly aisle first if they win but I think I’d go for cheese and butter,” Kate said.

Tineke said it was the fourth year New World had supported

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the school with the Grocery Grab.

“It’s nice to know all the money raised goes to all the children at the school, which is really cool, it’s a wonderful opportunity to help out.

“We love helping the community

in general, particularly the kids.”

Tickets are on sale until 5pm on Friday 8 August and can be bought at both New World and from Witherlea School reception during office hours.

The Blenheim

Wednesday August 6, 2025

9

10 Wednesday August 6, 2025

The Blenheim

Sun readers have their say... with the WORD on the Street.

Using cash to shop is less common than it once was, do we still need physical money?

Cindy Guardiola Blenheim I definitely want to be able to use cash, it’s easy and you don’t get surcharges like you do with PayWave.

Brought to you by...

Sue Bulfield-Johnson Blenheim I can imagine it happening but I don’t want to. There are people who don’t have access to digital technology for cash flow and in an emergency it’s useful. We need to be compassionate to those who need to use cash.

Debbie Webster Franchise Owner Blenheim

Hayden McFarland Blenheim Cash gives you more options and helps customers be more careful about spending when they use their own money.

Lysanne van Zessen Blenheim It’s a great way to learn about money, cash is how I learnt as a child, you get a set amount and need to work out what to spend it on. It’s a learning tool.

To sell what you love, talk to someone who loves where you live.

Lynn Beirne Christchurch Its 2025 and not using cash is how the younger generations move with the times. We all have a myriad of cards these days and the next thing will be facial recognition. We have to just deal with it.

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Calling the next Banksy Alzheimers Marlborough is planning something a little different and is inviting local artists to participate.

“We recently purchased a shipping container to help store the kindling wood we sell, and the books we collect for fundraising events,” Alzheimers Marlborough Manager Catherine Donnelly said.

“The idea is to turn the big green container into a piece of art that we can all enjoy. And we thought this would tie in nicely with

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our upcoming Alzheimers Marlborough Arts, Crafts and Collections Trail, another fundraiser that we run annually.”

Catherine is inviting expressions of interest from local artists to become Alzheimers Marlborough’s very own Banksy, and have their art displayed for all to see.

Only one artist or group will be selected.

Your design must be submitted no later than Monday 8th September 2025. This can be dropped off in person to Alzheimers Marlborough at 8 Wither Road, or emailed to manager.marlb@alzheimers.org.nz Along with the submitted art, you must provide a title and a short description of the art. Please ensure you have included your contact details. An approximate timeline will be discussed with the winning artist but it is anticipated that the artwork will be completed by the end of October 2025.

The artwork must include the Alzheimers Marlborough logo, some forget-me not flowers and deal with the theme of dementia in a caring, respectful and positive way.

Other conditions and guidelines include • Alzheimers Marlborough will prepare the ‘canvas’ and supply the paint.

• A health and safety plan will be provided with input from the artist.

• The area around the container must be kept clean and tidy, any paint spilt must be cleaned up straight away, drop cloths must

Alzheimers Marlborough Manager Catherine Donnelly with the shipping container being offered up as a blank canvas to Marlborough Artists.

be used at all times.

• By submitting a design you will be agreeing, should you be selected, to having your work and the project publicised.

• The side of the container measures 6.1m long by 2.59m high.

“Our clients will be the ones voting on the winning design,” Catherine said, “and artists are more than welcome to come up and have a look at the blank canvas.”

Alzheimers Marlborough run day programmes for people living with dementia, mate wareware, in their purpose-built Wither Road facility and in the community.

They support people with dementia, their carers and whanau living in the community

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who don’t attend the day programmes, and also provide education and community talks.

Coinciding with World Alzheimers Month the 4th Annual Alzheimers Art, Crafts & Collections Trail will once again bring art to our community and showcase some of our local, wonderfully talented artists.

The Trail is over the weekend of September 20 -21 and is a self-drive event with tickets available for just $30 per person, on sale from 19th August at Marlborough Alzheimers Centre, Scenic Hotel Marlborough, Agrivit Ltd in Renwick and the Marlborough Art Gallery.

All funds raised from our Art Trail remain in Marlborough.

The Blenheim

Wednesday August 6, 2025

11

Chlorination moves a step closer Blenheim’s water supply is on track to be chlorinated by the end of the year.

Work is underway at the Central and Middle Renwick Road water treatment plants.

Mason Engineers were awarded the construction contract and on-site works began in May at both plants. It’s expected to take five months to complete.

The Central chlorination plant is temporary – to comply with Water Services Act and the Drinking Water Quality Assurance Rules timeframe – and a permanent plant will be built in the next year or two.

Operations and Maintenance Engineer Stephen Rooney said initial progress had been slower than anticipated due to delays with design clarifications.

“Construction and installation will ramp up substantially over the next few months with a late September commissioning,” he said. “The majority of materials have been procured and with design clarifications resolved it’s anticipated that construction will be seamless as we work towards a handover by the start of October.”

A residual disinfectant, typically provided by chlorine, is added to water supplies to ensure they meet the Water Services Act and the Drinking Water Quality Assurance Rules.

While Blenheim’s water supply, which delivers to 10,700 households, is currently treated for protozoa and bacteria, there is no chlorine dosing.

The Water Services Authority Taumata Arowai says the Water

Services Act 2021 requires suppliers to use a multi-barrier approach to managing risks to protect drinking water from contamination.

They say a multi-barrier approach is a key principle of safe drinking water as a range of safeguards prevents people from getting sick as no single barrier is effective against all types of contamination.

Chlorine is a safe and inexpensive way to disinfect drinking water, capable of killing most common bacteria including campylobacter and norovirus. It’s generally used alongside other processes such as protozoa barriers which remove or inactivate single-celled parasites such as cryptosporidium and giardia.

Supplies in Renwick, Picton, Havelock, Wairau Valley,

Council invests in Marlborough’s skate parks Council has approved $72,000 for upgrades to Blenheim Skate Park following a submission to the Long Term Plan 2024-34.

The budget includes $8,000 for murals, $24,000 for shade and $40,000 for lighting. The funding comes from Council’s Land Subdivision Reserve.

The decision comes after upgrades to Picton Skate Park at Auckland Street reserve and youth space.

Members of local skating communities formed Skate Marlborough which is part of the Blenheim Lions group, and has held a number of activities, demonstrating positive growth.

Parks and Open Spaces

Seddon and Rural Awatere are chlorinated.

For more information and frequently asked questions go to: www.marlborough.govt.nz/

There is still time to provide feedback on the future of the Picton Powerhouse Reserve on Wairau Road.

The Picton Seaport Trust Board, made up of community and Council representatives, is keen to revitalise the site and wants to hear the community’s thoughts before progressing any plans.

Located beside the Picton

Blenheim Skate Park will be brightened up thanks to funding from Council’s Long Term Plan Officer Grahame Smail said the Picton redevelopment had taken place as budget and consultation allowed over the past few years.

The park now had a good range of skating opportunities and it is more usable and the envy of skaters in other districts, Grahame said.

Key aspects included a threeon-three basketball court, a volleyball court, a multi-goal skills practice area and new skate ramp structures to complement a range of smaller, moveable and fixed steel ‘skate trick jumps’, alongside seating, picnic tables, lighting and drinking fountains.

“It will likely attract visits from the wider Top of the South skating community, who may have previously bypassed Picton on their skating days out.

Natural surveillance had also been improved with the removal of vegetation.

“Early development of the skate park was strongly supported through the Picton Lions Club, and it is important to acknowledge the work they originally undertook. We extend our thanks to them,” he said.

services/utilities/water-supplies/ water-supplies-faqs/chlorinationfaqs or https://www.taumataarowai. govt.nz/

More time to have your say on Picton Powerhouse Reserve

The Powerhouse Reserve community engagement survey will now be available online until Friday 15 August.

It only takes five minutes to complete.

Parks and Open Spaces Manager Jane Tito said a local group, Skate Marlborough, made the submission seeking several improvements to the skate park, including murals, shade and lighting.

“In 2017, Council funded $60,000 of improvements at the park, including new bowls and jumps. This is a well-used facility and further improvements will make it an even more attractive space, particularly for young people,” she said. “Murals will add colour while lighting and shade will improve usability and safety.”

The reticulation pump building at the central water treatment plant

skate park and comprising a collection of historic buildings and sheds, the Trust has identified an opportunity to develop the space into a vibrant arts, environmental education, creativity, and connection hub.

The buildings include the former isolation ward from Picton Hospital, the Thorburn Gallery built in the early 1900s, and six boatsheds relocated from Picton Marina.

To have your say go to: https:// haveyoursay.marlborough. govt.nz/support-services/ powerhouse-reservecommunity-survey/

one on one with the Sun

12 Wednesday August 6, 2025

The Blenheim

Home is where the heart is Marlborough Mayor Nadine Taylor is standing for re-election in the upcoming council elections.

She talks to Paula Hulburt about her passion for community, family and frozen pea conversations.

The bus doors open into the heavy heat of the late summer afternoon. Neatly pressed uniforms bear the day’s smudges and as the girls alight, open-toed sandals hitting the ground with glee. School bags slung around shoulders, chatter and giggles greet the parent on carpool duty.

It is 4.30pm and 16-year-old Nadine Taylor is dropped off a few kilometres from the bus stop where her bicycle waits. She gets out and waves goodbye, ready for the 10-minute cycle to the family’s farm further up Seddon’s Marama Road. Ten hours after she left that morning, she is almost home again.

Perhaps, Nadine smiles, that was her preparation for the long days that awaited as mayor. “I went to Seddon School and then later took the bus to Marlborough Girls’ College. In the sun and in the cold we’d trundle. It was long hours from the start.”

“I knew if it was done well, it would enhance lives” Poised and with a gentle friendliness that should somehow belie her role it is something of a leap of imagination to picture Marlborough’s Mayor as the once shy, hesitant girl she explains she once was.

The youngest of three siblings, Nadine’s days were always busy: with family, the farm, friends, pets and the countless books she easily devoured. The heady days of childhood are happily remembered.

Her younger brother and sister both live in Blenheim now while Nadine calls Picton home.

The trio remains close. “I won’t name them,” she smiles, “they probably don’t want the world to know I’m their sister,” she jokes. “We’ll keep their anonymity.”

It was at Marlborough Girls’ College where she flourished, a world of possibilities opening as she found confidence. “It was where I came out of my shell and opened to the opportunities of tertiary education,” she recollects. “I have a lot to thank the college for, it’s where I found my tribe, my own people. I also joined drama

and that’s a great way to build confidence and was the beginning of finding my voice.”

Finding that voice took Nadine to Canterbury University where she studied history and political science. “I always had a fascination for politics,” Nadine says, “and beyond that, the impact of policy and decision making on a community. I knew if it was done well, it would enhance lives.”

This passion for community stems from family; her aunts, uncles and parents who volunteered their time. “They understood it takes everyone to stand up and make a community stronger.” Nadine says.

It is community at the heart of her decision to stand again she reveals.

“The first few years have been fascinating and opened a whole lot of possibilities. There is no natural end time in this job,” Nadine says, “progress is constant.”

“You couldn’t have just anyone jump into this role; you’d need at least a term as a councillor.

I was also deputy mayor for John Leggett who was very good to me as a mentor and encouraging me to take the lead in issues.”

Support has been key to her political role, Nadine says, “it’s not a job someone could tackle alone. I’ve great family support, we’re really close and always have been.”

This closeness came at a cost just over a year ago when Nadine’s much-loved father died following a terminal illness diagnosis. The family, she says, cared for him at home.

Both her parents were proud of what she has achieved, she says as are her two grown sons.

‘They’ll send me headlines and ask what I think,” she smiles.

It is her husband of 31-years, Graham who she credits as being her “greatest support.” The pair met in Japan where they were both spending winter working on the ski fields.

An advert in the then Marlborough Express saw a few people from across the region take seasonal jobs there, Nadine says. “We didn’t know each other before that. He grew up in Blenheim and went to Marlborough Boys’ College. Our lives really are immersed in this region.”

Here, Nadine pauses for a moment, her tone softening just slightly. “We fell in love and we

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came back. I was going to do some more travelling but he was way too special not to come back for.

“I’d do it all again in a heartbeat, he was the best decision I’ve made.

“I owe him a lot for helping create the space in our life so I can focus on the job of being Mayor, I know he misses out on a lot and has to listen to far too much local government talk that is probably good for any marriage!”

For Nadine, local government is a passion.

Being part of and caring for the community is more than simply a job. When she’s not in Wellington talking to officials and politicians, representing Marlborough at events, at council or welcoming foreign dignitaries to the region, even her down time can turn political.

“I’ve had quite a few of what I call ‘frozen pea’ conversations where I get stopped in the supermarket,” she laughs. “But connection is a big part of the role, and in Marlborough those connections come in the way we rally to support each other and we need to protect that.”

Her biggest challenge as mayor is without doubt the two major weather events of 2021 and 2022 which closed roads, disrupted lives and isolated communities in the Sounds, she

Marlborough Mayor Nadine Taylor says there was no doubt in her mind about running in the upcoming election.

Photo: Paula Hulburt.

explains.

“There so many times I just wished there was a quicker way forward,” Nadine says. The June rains this year closed 40 roads and caused an estimated $20 million of damages. Dealing with more extreme weather events is very much on her mind.

“We have to think how we move forward, how will we manage the new normal of extreme rain and weather as a community?”

Bringing in the Sounds’ road repairs on time and under budget is an achievement she is proud of. The library is another. There are many micro-moments of magic, she says, grateful for all the role of mayor brings.

“I do have many moments where I think ‘gosh, this it, this is why I do the job, this is why I’m here.

“I value the space we live in; we have everything, from the sense of safety and access to some amazing facilities, the library, the stadium, our parks and open spaces, the hospital, our port and airport.

“I am proud to call Marlborough home.”

The Blenheim

Wednesday August 6, 2025

13

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14 Wednesday August 6, 2025

The Blenheim

Students pitching in for better essays

By Paula Hulburt

A trio of friends with a vision to help students write better essays are getting set to pitch their idea to Ministry of Education bosses.

Marlborough Boys’ College students Sanjiv Singh, Kahu Hoeta, and Lawrence Piesse built education platform, WordFrame AI. Now the Year 12 entrepreneurs are hoping the tool will impress the government’s lead education advisors.

It all started to tackle their own essay-writing woes, CEO Sanjiv explained.

“It’s an ethical AI tool that prevents plagiarism while actually helping students develop better writing skills.

“I’ve seen students copying Chat GPT and trying to write it themselves using their own words in a way so they’ll get away with it.

“This takes away that plagiarism risk.”

The friends came up with the idea for the local 2025 Young Enterprise Scheme (YES) and have since won back-to-back business challenges.

While the platform is already being used, the quick-thinking trio are now targeting every NCEA student in the country from their Marlborough base.

Marlborough Boys’ College principal Jarrod Dunn is helping the team prepare a strong case study to support the students’ pitch to the Ministry of Education.

Sanjiv said they hope to present before the end of the school year.

“We want WordFrame to be used in every high school across New Zealand.”

A $100,000 revenue is their target and after starting their marketing campaign in earnest just a few days ago, they already have 13 students signed up for the $12 a month

Lawrence Piesse, Sanjiv Singh and Kahu Hoeta are the brains behind WordFrame AI. Photo: Paula Hulburt.

subscription.

Lawrence said most pupils were using AI but not learning much.

“We want them to learn how to create these essays themselves.”

The AI-powered writing assistant, available on both web and mobile, helps students organise their work through structure suggestions and guidance about where to find information.

“It won’t give you all the answers,” Kahu explained, “It’s like a research assistant, it helps you explore and understand the sources you’ve already added.

“You can ask questions, and WordFrame will

search within your content to provide accurate, contextual answers.”

The platform has already been trialled among some students at Marlborough Girls’ College to great success. The boys themselves use it every day.

Kahu oversees visuals and branding while Lawrence looks after finance and research.

Looking after the platform is quite passive, the team say, now it is up and running.

“Between us it’s easy to run, we have very different strengths,” Sanjiv said.

To find out more or to try WordFrame for free visit www://https:wordframe.app

Coffee cups and paper towels Marlborough Airport’s battle with waste contaminate the lot. And that person seems to show up about twice a week.

Even so, the new waste sorting system

By Kira Carrington at Marlborough Airport was making a big LDR Reporter dent in the team’s goal of reducing 30% of its landfill waste in three years.

It only takes one person to throw a half- Marlborough Airport sustainability lead full coffee cup into the recycling bin to Stephanie Flores said she loved watching people use the new brightly coloured bins — for landfill, plastics, cans and glass — and make the right decision.

“People actually do care, they actually want to do the right thing.

“It’s a collective effort for sure.”

Marlborough Stephanie said waste was Airport a “social construct” and sustainability lead Stephanie everyone had a different Flores said the idea about where the airport aims to problem was, and whethreduce their 30 er or not there was a tonnes of waste problem. by 30 per cent.

“What I know is that Photo: Kiras we’re sending 30 tonnes Carrington/LDR [to landfill] a year.

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“About two thirds of our general waste was either completely recoverable or potentially recoverable. “[We’ve] got to do something differently.”

The airport had also removed paper towels from their bathrooms, after a waste audit revealed it was one of their biggest waste streams. They were replaced with energy-efficient hand dryers.

“One tonne [per year] was just the paper towels from the toilet,” Stephanie said.

“How much do we spend on this? $5000 a year, just on paper towels.

“It’s organic material, so it’s breaking down into methane and we’re passing the problem on to Marlborough District Council, our owners.”

Sephanie said the decision to remove them wasn’t welcomed by everyone.

“The poor [operation] staff, they were getting questions like ‘why did you remove the paper towels’,” she said.

Flores said she put signs in the bathrooms, explaining the decision and how much waste was saved.

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Other waste saving schemes included a craft paper recycling bin for receipts and boarding passes and turning coffee grinds into mulch to feed the 4000 native plants along the nearby State Highway 6.

“We are looking at building a composter [on-site] and trialling composting to remove that waste stream altogether,” Stephanie said.

And their efforts seemed to be bearing fruit.

Marlborough Airport’s waste had decreased from 30 tonnes in the year ending June 2024, to just under 23.5 tonnes for the year ending June 2025.

Stephanie said that while the airport was too small to be a trailblazer in waste reduction, they were quick to adopt any strategies successful at other airports.

“We like to consider ourselves as fast followers ... because we are about 300,000 passengers a year.

“We don’t have the budgets that the larger airports have. “[But we’re] punching above our weight.”

LDR is local body journalism co-funded

by RNZ and NZ On Air.

The Blenheim

Wednesday August 6, 2025

15

16 Wednesday August 6, 2025

The Blenheim

Grey Power Marlborough

MARLBOROUGH

The Association for people 50+

Advocating for people 50 +

Wishing all our members a special merry Christmas and a happy new year

From our local President Phone 03 578 4950 or visit our website on www.greypowermarlborough.co.nz

Kia ora, and hello everybody.

Welcome to the August newsletter. I was lucky enough to get away last month and spend time at Hanmer Springs with my children and grandchildren to celebrate another birthday. There is something magical about spending time with little ones who enjoy your time, love and a bit of imagination. It was gorgeous watching their excitement blowing out candles on your cake.

It is our bi-monthly competition time again. Thanks to Cheng and Liying at the Blue Penguin for donating a fabulous prize for this month. It is a pair of Kiwi Down possum/merino gloves – ideal for this cold weather. Entry details further on the page.

Grey Power committee members have been out and about chatting to various groups over the past month. It has been lovely to have been invited to so many organisations to spread the word about the advocacy work happening at local and national level. If you have any issues you would like raised, please do not hesitate to contact me. My email is president@greypowermarlborough. co.nz

On a sadder note, our National Secretary, Jo Millar, passed away on Saturday 19th of July after a sudden illness. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family at this time.

Have you seen the Marlborough Grey Power website? If not, have a look at www.greypowermarlborough.co.nz.

There is lots of useful information on the discount book, community services in Marlborough, resources and the latest news. So if you’re not a member yet or would like to re-join, check us out. And to those of you who already are, thank you.

Ngā mihi, Bron Mogredge

Have your say in October 2025 Marlborough District Council (MDC) decisions impact our lives every day. And with local elections coming up in October, this is a reminder of how important your vote is.

Most days, before you’ve even walked out the door, you will have used a Council service. If you’ve showered, had a cup of tea or put your wheelie bin out, you’ve accessed a Council service. Perhaps you’ve gone for a walk in the Council-owned Wither Hills Farm Park, swum at the town pool, or taken the kids to Pollard Park.

From water to waste, public toilets to parks and playgrounds, MDC delivers services that affect you.

Every vote counts Local body elections play an essential role in shaping the community we live in. They determine who will be part of, and who will lead the Marlborough District Council which

is responsible for an annual budget of about $200 million.

Every vote counts, and the margin between candidates can be small. Voting is your opportunity to take ownership of Marlborough’s future and contribute to its growth.

Enrolling is straightforward – enrol, check or update your details at vote.nz.

9 Make sure you’re enrolled and that your details are up-to-date 9 Learn about the candidates – come along to one of Greypower’s “Meet the Candidates” meetings in Blenheim & Picton (details will be advised next newsletter) 9 And most importantly - VOTE. Every vote shapes our future. Make sure you have your say.

Brought to you by the Electoral Commission and the Marlborough Chamber of Commerce.

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The Blenheim

Wednesday August 6, 2025

Grey Power Marlborough

17

MARLBOROUGH

The Association for people 50+

Advocating for people 50 +

Wishing all our members a special merry Christmas and a happy new year

Office snippets

Office for Seniors News Phone 03 578 4950 or visit our website on www.greypowermarlborough.co.nz

Welcoming our incoming Director Nicky McDonald joins the Office for Seniors as our new Director on 25 August 2025.

Nicky brings 30 years of public sector experience in both central and local government, most recently in senior leadership at Nelson City Council.

She has championed initiatives to improve outcomes for older people, including: • leading collaboration between government and local agencies to support retention and recruitment of older workers • securing funding and overseeing a successful artificial intelligence project aimed at supporting older adults in Nelson • serving as a member of the Age-Friendly Aotearoa Expert Advisory Board.

Earlier in her career, Nicky held diplomatic roles with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, including positions with the New Zealand Permanent Mission to the United Nations and as Deputy High Commissioner in New Delhi.

Says Nicky, “I’m really looking for ward to connecting with our partners and stakeholders. Hearing their insights will be key as we work

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The Office for Seniors looks forward to welcoming Nicky into the team.

Retirement Commission unveils new planning tool A new Sorted tool has been released to help New Zealanders nearing or already in retirement feel more con f ident about their financial future and how to plan for it. Launched by Te Ara Ahunga Ora Retirement Commission, the retirement navigator is free to use on the Sorted website.

Taking into account people’s invested savings (for example, KiwiSaver) and NZ Super, the tool helps users determine the optimal income they can draw down over their retirement.

People can see how long their savings might last in different scenarios by adjusting the variables, such as when they expect their retirement to start

• Add broadband to your electricity account and receive two months free broadband.

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•

• Discount Book - Work is about to commence on the Discount Book for 2026. Please get in touch with the office if you would like to advertise your business (ideally including a special discount for our members) or if there is a business that you would like us to approach. We would love to see more businesses from Picton, Havelock, Seddon, Marlborough Sounds, Kaikoura and other areas. and their desired lifestyle.

Although intended for those who are nearing or already in retirement, the retirement navigator can be useful to people of any age who wish to examine how they can manage their projected savings.

Try the new retirement navigator at www.sorted.org.nz/tools/retirement-navigator

Access & Mobility update GreyPower Marlborough is part of an Access and Mobility subcommittee group to investigate fundraising options to enable our pool facilities in Blenheim to have another hoist.

Members of the group have expressed the need for a second hoist to improve water activity access for people with a disability.

Council’s Community Partnership team are looking at suitable grant options for the group to investigate.

Members will be pleased to know that new toilet blocks are to be built at Horton and Oliver Parks in the next few weeks with accessible facilities.

Currently the new toilet block at

Go to www.greypowerelectricity.co.nz for more details. *Terms and conditions apply.

• We encourage you to look through your Discount Book. There are some great savings to be had. Each month we would like to acknowledge the support shown to our members by some of the businesses: Lyndon Hogg Painting, Lynfords Furniture, Marlborough MS & Parkinsons Society, Marlborough Plumbing & Heating, Mayfield Motorworld, McKendry Motors (Mazda), McRaes Fashion, Nite Spa Beauty Therapy, Not Tech Savvy, One 2 One Hairdressing, Ortho-Dent Denture Clinic, PC Media Solutions.

Regular Events Westwood is being built and there were some concerns from members that the size would not be enough to service possible need. The land to build the toilet block was gifted to Council so design was limited by space.

Robyn Blackburn, Grey Power Committee member

• Veterans Support Hub meets on the third Thursday of the month, 10am at Sowman Funerals Lounge. Phone Janice on 021 071 6242 for more information.

• The Picton Men’s Community Shed meet Wednesdays and Saturdays, for more information phone Bill on 573 5507, or Tim on 027 848 0133.

• Older Person’s Forum at St Christopher’s Church Hall takes place on the third Thursday of each month.

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The Blenheim

Stadium under pressure as senior classes boom

By Kira Carrington LDR Reporter

Blenheim seniors are flocking to Marlborough Lines Stadium 2000, and staff are starting to worry there may not be room for them all.

Even first thing on a Monday, the changing rooms are packed ahead of the Aquacise class, a hot favourite among the older demographic.

“Don’t suggest that people join our class, because there’s no room,” one participant said, only partly joking.

Seniors’ use of the aquatic, fitness and sport centre was expected to keep growing until 2038, while other demographics were expected to plateau, a report from the Marlborough Stadium Trust said.

Seniors went to the stadium 25,555 times in the 2023-24 year, up 249% from 7333 visits in 2013-14.

Aquacise instructor Alison “Janey” Phipps said there were always at least 50 people, or even up to 90 people, in her class which started at 9am, three times a week.

An Aquagentle class ran twice a week.

“I just love this demographic of people,” Alison said.

“They just get on with it, they’re just in there, and I really like that.”

Aquacise was really good for seniors, as it helped with mobility, injury recovery, and fall prevention, as well as just being fun, she said.

As classic tunes from the 80s boomed through the aquatic area, Alison had the group doing

Aquacise instructor Alison “Janey” Phipps always has at least 50 people in her 9am class. Photo: Supplied

leg, arm and core exercises, in a 45-minute workout that was not for the faint of heart, using pool noodles and foam dumb bells.

An 80-year-old participant, having her ritual coffee after the class at the stadium cafe with the other participants, said she was dragged along by a friend while she was recovering from an injury.

“I was still on crutches, and I was at the back of the pool, and I’ve gradually got myself fit enough, and now I’m there doing it all.”

There was more to the classes

than simply exercise, she said.

“Don’t discount all the social stuff.

“A lot of the people who come, it’s the only people they see all day.

They come and they swim, and they talk to the people, and they live alone.

All the demand had put the facilities under a lot of strain, stadium trustee Anna Houkamau told the Marlborough District Council’s assets and services committee on July 15.

“We have up to 90 seniors in

some of the exercise classes in the mornings, and associated capacity issues with things like changing,” Anna said.

The basketball and netball courts were also at capacity, particularly due to their use by groups, and there was not enough space to hold tournaments.

In 2013, the council bought the neighbouring buildings at the corner of Redwood St and Kinross St, and leased them to Smith’s City and the Marlborough Youth Trust’s MySpace centre. The aim

of the purchase was to ensure the stadium could expand in the future if demand warranted it.

The council’s group manager for property and community facilities, Jamie Lyall, said it was now proposed for those buildings to be integrated into the stadium complex.

But any decision to transfer the buildings to the trust would be done in collaboration with the Marlborough Youth Trust, Jamie said.

LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

The Blenheim

Wednesday August 6, 2025

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20 Wednesday August 6, 2025

The Blenheim

New Marlborough tech hub a ‘gamechanger’

By Kira Carrington LDR Reporter

A deconstructed Nintendo Switch, robots that deliver chocolate, and a poster for an algorithm workshop are strewn around Marlborough’s new tech hub.

They’re welcome signs that the tech community has embraced its new home at Te Au Pūngao, which opened five months ago.

Kitted out with computers, soldering stations, 3D printers and even virtual reality headsets, the upstairs area of the former Blenheim library functions as an office, workshop, and community space for tech whizzes.

Managing director of Whiringa Louisa Murray is contracted by Marlborough District Council to run the space. Working with the hub’s diverse members was “shockingly fun,” she said.

“At its most basic, it’s a co-working space, it’s desks, offices, and meeting rooms for remote workers, start-ups, founders.

“What I think is really special about this place is the community. We’ve worked really hard on building a community feel around

the place.

Owner of graphic design business For Good Studio Tonielle Purdy said she had been part of Te Au Pūngao since its opening.

“It’s been such a gamechanger to have a proper space to come to, and clock-in-clockout, [and] talk to the other people in the space,” she said.

It’s been really great to just have a sounding board ... to have that community aspect of being able to commiserate and celebrate with people around you.”

Louisa said one advantage of the space was that it attracted skilled people with remote jobs who could settle anywhere in the world.

One such nomad was John Grant, who worked as a software engineer for the fully remote 3D mapping company DroneDeploy.

Grant said he originally brought his family from Wellington to Marlborough to work.

When he started in his current role, which allowed him to live anywhere, he opted to stay and became one of the first members of Te Au Pūngao.

“We didn’t want to leave Marlborough, we love it here,” he said. “We’ve got young kids and they’ve really got a good group of friends, and we’re pretty happy here.”

Louisa said Te Au Pūngao had already

Graphic designer and entrepreneur Tonielle Purdy says Blenheim’s new tech hub has been a gamechanger for her work. Photo: Kira Carrington.

smashed its targets for its first year.

They had filled two thirds of their 24 desks, smashing their goal of filling 10 desks in the first year, and exceeding revenue goals by $20,000.

Murray said the goal was to be financially sustainable by 2027, when council funding

for the project ran out.

“I was given three years to sink or swim,” Murray said.

“If by July 27, if it’s not fully self-funding, then council pulls the plug.”

LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

Ryan’s report - Bunnings NPC kicks off TASMAN v BAY OF PLENTY I was really impressed with how this game started as Bay of Plenty were strong from the outset. I felt Tasman’s defence was put to the test early, as BOP charged through their forwards.

Bay of Plenty looked strong in the backs as Kaleb Trask really lead them well around the park. Tasman had their opportunities, but great defensive work by BOP, stopped their momentum. I was really impressed with the set piece by BOP and my standout player was Naitoa Ah Kuoi, as I thought his vocal leadership for the forwards was outstanding. This, combined with some of the brilliantly executed work by the backs, caught Tasman off guard and resulted in some great tries.

Tasman tried to claw their way back, but, it was to no avail as they witnessed some great work by the BOP reserves. Tasman have Manawatu next week, so, hopefully now that the Nelson District has dried out a bit, with more on-field training able to be done, Tasman can get back to their winning ways.

Final Score: 37 - 7 Bay of Plenty WELLINGTON v CANTERBURY Two words to describe this one, RAZZLE DAZZLE! Canterbury got off to a dynamic start, as they tossed the ball out wide and their backs looked dangerous. I was also impressed with the forward pack for Canterbury, as their ability to put pressure on the Wellington defensive line, was quite amazing.

Canterbury’s set piece was strong with most of their momentum coming from there. Their break down and ruck work was also amazing, along with their ability to get over the ball and turn it over - I felt this was perfectly executed. All Wellington could do in the second half was watch, as Canterbury continued to produce magical play after magical play, which was also then reflected on the scoreboard. Wellington was able to get a consolation try, which I was impressed with.

Final Score: 33 - 15 to Canterbury To my MBC First XV brothers, congratulations, you worked really hard all season.

Proud of you all for the work that everyone put in this year, sorry it didn’t end how you

A BIG thank you to these Marlborough businesses who donated to our Marlborough Four Paws Charitable Trust Feature.

Together we raised POPEY’S CONTRACTING

LTD

$767 for Four Paws

SARAH GAtJENS Registered Conveyancing Practitioner - Havelock, Marlborough

Lest we

would have liked. GO THE FALCONS!!

Don’t forget to check our Ryan’s You Tube channel - ‘The Rugby Opinioneer’.

Ryan Webb

marlborough

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The Blenheim

Wednesday August 6, 2025

like you’ve never seen it before, plus >>>

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André Rieu live in Maastricht!

Blenheim Palace Estate

by John Cooney

ext time you’re in London, once you’ve eyeballed Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace and Big Ben, you’ve gotta get out in the country. Why? Because there’s more to Ye Olde England than just London …

I mean, not far along the M4 are some of the sweetest, loveliest corners you can find in this “green and pleasant land”. And when you wander

21

off the beaten track (as we’re gonna do in June/July 2026) you’re soon oohing-and-aahing at fairytale villages, thatchroofed cottages, flowersmothered gardens, leafy woodland lanes, pubs with weird names, cathedrals with pointy roofs, medieval castles and knights in shining armour.

We’ll fall in love with the honey-coloured village of Woodstock … explore stunning Blenheim Palace … feel the

‘Downton Abbey’ vibes in old Bampton town … enjoy a walkabout in exotic Hidcote Manor … get all floral at Kiftsgate Court … discover magical Broadway … and relive some Roman history in Bath.

We’ll meander through idyllic hamlets – like St Ives, Doc Martin’s Port Isaac, and Singleton (where ‘The Repair Shop’ is filmed).

We’ll soak up the seaside magic of Padstow. And we’ll

roam more bloomin’ gardens than you can shake a gumboot at: like Sissinghurst, Trebah, Heligan and Great Dixter.

We’ll finish with a Midlife Madness flourish, crossing the Channel for a spectacular live ANDRÉ RIEU concert, in his hometown of Maastricht, Holland! e quick! This tour’s almost FULL! Call us on 0800 323 333 or visit www.midlifemadness.tours.

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Join hosts John & Robyn Cooney 20 days in Ye Olde England: June 2026

• Garden Tour price: $23,995 pp share twin • • André Rieu Concert extra (see website) •

22 Wednesday August 6, 2025

The Blenheim

On the Road

WIN ME Win a Suzuki THROUGH

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Find out more info

Contact Us Today!

Ph: 03 578 5199 53 Scott Street, Blenheim www.motorworld.co.nz

Motorworld is proud to support Hospice Marlborough once again—this time by helping you secure your chance to win a brand new 2025 Suzuki Swift Hybrid!

Only 1,000 tickets are available, and with nearly 500 sold in the first month, they’re going fast. Tickets are only available online, but Motorworld has made it easy for you to grab yours.

We’ve set up a dedicated ticket station right inside our sales area, with friendly staff ready to guide you through the simple

online purchase process.

Whether you’re unsure when it comes to technology or just want a hand getting it done quickly, our team is here to help.

We’ll help you with the entry process and complete your purchase through GalaBid—all you need is your visa card for online payment.

Please note: Motorworld cannot accept cash or payments directly, but we’re more than happy to assist you through the online process.

With easy parking right outside the showroom and a relaxed, welcoming space, dropping in to grab your ticket couldn’t be simpler.

By purchasing a ticket, not only are you in to win a stunning new Suzuki Swift Hybrid, you’re helping Hospice Marlborough reach their fundraising goal. Come and see us at Motorworld, get your ticket sorted, and be part of something great.

Don’t miss out - tickets are limited!

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The Blenheim

I N T R O D U C I N G

Allied Media You may have known us as Allied Press.

Now, we’re Allied Media.

A new name that reflects who we are today: a modern media company with deep roots in the South. We’re still independent, still locally owned and still focused on delivering trusted news and impactful advertising.

While our name has changed, our commitment to the South hasn’t.

Since 1861, we’ve been telling the stories that matter, championing our people and standing up for our island. Yesterday, today and tomorrow.

The name is new. The mission isn’t.

alliedmedia.co.nz

Wednesday August 6, 2025

23

24 Wednesday August 6, 2025

The Blenheim

proud to bring you this puzzle page

CROSSWORD 1

2

3

4

412 5

6

7

row, column and box should SUDOKU Every contain the digits 1 to 9.

WordBuilder 6 G E A G AE RA G

8

11

12

A R G

How many words of three or more letters, How many words ofmake three orthe more including plurals, can you from six letters, using each letter only once?

No you foreign letters, including plurals, can make words or words beginning with a capital are from the six letters, using each only allowed. There's at least one six-letter word.

How many words of three or more letters, once?

TODAY Good 10 Very Good 13 Excellent 16 including No plurals, can beginning you make from the six words a capital Solution 311: ado, awe, awed,with dam, dame, demo, are letters, using each lettermad, only once?

No foreign dew, doe, dome, made, maw, mead, allowed. There’s at least oneMEADOW, six-letter words or words beginning with a capital are ode, meow, mew, moa, mod, mode, mow, mowed, owe, owed, wade, woad, woe. allowed. word.

There's atwad, least onewed, six-letter word.

13

14

15

16

312

312

9 10

WORDBUILDER6 WordBuilder

17

18

TODAY Good 10 Very Good 13 Excellent 16

24

25

27

26

28

29

Across 1. Haulage (14) 10. Chosen few (5) 11. Rise in rank or status (9) 12. Stark (7) 13. Large, lively party (7) 14. Devout (5) 16. One more time (4,5) 19. Indoor athletic facility (9) 20. Roof overhang (5) 22. Ancient wine jar (7) 25. Sceptical (7) 27. Armistice (5-4) 28. Constituent (5) 29. Histrionics (14)

Down 2. Downpour (9) 3. Relative (5) 4. Popular pizza topping (9) 5. Chambers (5) 6. Loathe (9) 7. Homer’s epic poem (5) 8. Nine-sided figure (7) 9. Renovate (6) 15. Shortland Street, for example (4,5) 17. Confess (colloq) (4,5) 18. Champions (9) 19. Peeks (7) 21. Sensual (6) 23. Undecorated (5) 24. Legal defence (5) 26. Belly button (5)

Decoder

All puzzles copyright

T H E P U Z Z L E COM P AN Y www.thepuzzlecompany.co.nz

DECODER WordBuilder Agar, age, are, area, ear, egg, eggar, era, erg, gag, gaga, gage, gar, GARAGE, gear, rag, raga, rage.

23

Solution 311: ado, awe, awed, dam, dame, demo, dew, doe, dome, mad, made, maw, mead, MEADOW, meow, mew, moa, mod, mode, mow, mowed, ode, owe, owed, wad, wade, wed, woad, woe.

21

Crossword Across: 1. Transportation, 10. Elite, 11. Promotion, 12. Austere, 13. Shindig, 14. Pious, 16. Once again, 19. Gymnasium, 20. Eaves, 22. Amphora, 25.

Cynical, 27. Cease-fire, 28. Voter, 29. Sensationalism.

Down: 2. Rainstorm, 3. Niece, 4. Pepperoni, 5. Rooms, 6.Abominate, 7. Iliad, 8. Nonagon, 9. Revamp, 15. Soap opera, 17. Come clean, 18.

Advocates, 19. Glances, 21. Sultry, 23. Plain, 24. Alibi, 26. Navel.

22

20

Each number represents a different letter of the alphabet. Write the given letters into all squares with matching numbers. Now work out which letters are represented by the other numbers.

Sudoku

19

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The Blenheim

Wednesday August 6, 2025

The Seddon community came together to celebrate Vanuatu Independence Day with a vibrant dinner attended by approximately 250–300 local Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) workers.

There were plenty of smiles as the RSE community gathered to mark Vanuatu Independence Day.

25

Out & AbOut ...with The Sun your local paper

The celebration was a chance for people to catch up.

Have an event ?

Contact 03 5777 868

Steve Pellet volunteered as one of the chefs.

Tanya Hawley, Moris Nelson, and Tuto Jack spent time catching up.

Everyone joined in the special celebrations, with some taking a turn to cook up a storm.

Paul McNabb from McKeown Petrol, Rosie Chandra and Fijian RSE, Ese.

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Tito Jack, Lesley Joshua and Roderick Raita.

From left, Dean Caughley, Tanya Hawley, Brownie Jackson, Eli Barr, Karen Lauder, Steve Pellet, Charmaine Hammond, Paul McIntyre, Paul McNabb, Dave Hammond and Rosie Chandra.

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26 Wednesday August 6, 2025

The Blenheim

gardening this week

Lexie’s Life What I wouldn’t give to get my paws on my own wheels!

Of course, I’d need a chauffeur, nothing to do with my short stature you understand, I just have certain standards to maintain. It would be a lovely way to greet my fans, being driven around the region, waving a regal paw as I passed.

It’s been a whole month since we launched our car raffle and almost half the tickets are sold already.

Of course, I’m not eligible to win, but a girl can dream. There are only 1000 tickets so if you do fancy yourself in a brand-new 2025 Suzuki Swift GLD Hybrid now’s the time to buy!

Head to our website at Hospice Marlborough and use your email to enter, it’s so easy, even a dog would cope.

In July our Redwoodtown shop celebrated their 20th birthday!

Sadly, my invitation must have been delayed in the post, but I did hear all about it as everyone here was delighted with the milestone.

I also heard there was cake but, alas, none for me. I was sad to hear lovely Shop Manager Christine has left for new endeavors. Leading the shop for the past 12 years, she has helped grow a strong community and lead a team of almost 80 volunteers. That is no mean feat, and Christine has done it with dedication and heart - an amazing job – she will be missed by all, including moi.

Nine volunteers were also honoured for 20 years of dedicated service. Amazing. In cat years that’s the equivalent of 88 years plus, which is commendable to say the least. We are so grateful for all our volunteers who give their time, care and passion to their roles.

It is almost time for 2025 Fabric-abrac!! Keep Saturday 16th August free and head down to Connect Blenheim – corner of High Street and Beaver Road, where you can buy all things fabric, sewing, patterns and haberdashery!

All proceeds for this come back to Hospice Marlborough – there’ll even be a

Time to start Tomatoes: By Wally Richards

With that in mind, we are on the lookout for another special person to join our wonderful team. We need a new Volunteer Coordinator, a pivotal role supporting recruitment, training and mobilisation of volunteers across events, retail and clinical services. For a full job description and to apply – please head to our website - https:// www.hospicemarlborough.org.nz/ join-our-team Yes, I agree, I would be rather good at it but simply have enough to do in my day already. It takes dedication and a lot of grooming to look this fabulous all the time!

I was called in for an important job recently. We receive many cards of thanks, gift baskets and thoughtful essential items here at Hospice and we are so grateful for each one of them. I make sure I make time in my busy schedule to see the gifts and read the cards. It is lovely to be so well thought of.

‘Till next time, Love Lexie.

pop café on site for all your caffeine and snack needs. Come see the team 10am - 1pm! We are still taking donations of fabric for this, so if you have any unwanted items, or you’ve been meaning to do that clean out, please drop to one of our Hospice Shops in either Redwoodtown or Picton.

The first tomato plants in garden centres are now available for the new season and the sooner you get started the sooner you will have those wonderful fruits to eat in salads and sandwiches.

If you have a glasshouse or conservatory to grow a few tomato plants in containers or in the soil of a glasshouse then that’s great, if not as we say... ‘where there is a will there is a way’.

Tomato plants are quite hardy if you do not over water and have them in an open situation exposed to the elements.

If you have not grown some plants from seed then you can buy two or more plants from a plant shop.

If they are in individual containers then they are already to grow on before potting up into a larger container. If in a cell pack repot into small individual containers.

You simply place the potted plant onto a plastic meat tray from the supermarket and place a pinch (Quarter a tea spoon) of Wallys Secret Tomato Food onto the mix.

Place the tray and the plant on a sunny north facing window sill and give it about 10-15mil of water every morning.

At night when you close the blinds bring the plant off the window sill and place on a table overnight.

Next morning put the plant and tray back on the sill, give a little drink and turn the pot 180 degrees so that the other side of the plant gets the direct light for a day.

This is important because the light is not over head, its sideways and the plant will grow unbalanced to the light. Removing it from the windowsill at night will mean it is not sitting next to a cold window and less chance of knocking off the sill when you open and close blinds.

Also you can put a mark like {1} on one side of the pot then on odd days that side will be facing the window and on even days it will be facing into the room.

When your plant has doubled in size it is ready to be re-potted into a larger container and I would suggest a 20cm pot. Now this is when we start planting the tomato deeper than it was in the smaller pot. In fact you plant it deep up to and including the bottom leaves.

The plant will develop roots up the trunk and make for a better plant with a bigger root system.

If it is a grafted tomato you can’t do this deep planting as it is not needed and also if you do it will likely rot and die at the graft.

Apply more Wallys Secret Tomato Food to the top of the medium and this time about a level teaspoon full.

There will likely be laterals or side shoots appearing out of where the leaves emerge from the trunk.

The normal thing is to remove these by pinching out while they are small.

On bush type tomato plants such as Russian Red you don’t need to pinch out the laterals.

Only pinch out laterals on a sunny day when humidity is very low as disease can enter the plant though the wound.

You can also spray the wound with Wallys Liquid Copper to be sure or dust Wally Sulphur Powder over the wound.

It is though wounds that the disease ‘Collar Rot’

enters which causes a rot somewhere on the trunk of the plant which as the rot develops it progressively cuts the roots off from the canopy and the plant dies.

In the larger pot it will grow to about a metre tall and will be too big for the window sill nursery.

Instead it’s going to have to go outside into a sunny protective place but the day before doing so spray the foliage all over with Wallys Vaporgard. This will give it protection from frost if there is one and more so against wind burn. It will also now need support of a bamboo stake which you can push into the growing medium and with a nylon tie fix the plant to the stake.

The first flowers will appear about this time and with the plant in full sunshine you tap the stake to make the plant vibrate. That is what sets the fruit.

Only do this on a sunny day in full sun light.

It will not be long before you either go into a large container about 50 to 100L or a large grow bag.

Place it in a sunny place in the garden that is nicely sheltered or under the eaves on the northern side of the house to plant it into the garden.

Apply more Wallys Secret Tomato food and start spraying the plant weekly with Wallys Magic Botanic Liquid (MBL) It is important to keep the plant’s growing medium moist.On a tall plant on a hot sunny day even if the medium has sufficient moisture the top trusses lack sufficient moisture at fruit set as the plant cannot move enough water up to the fruit set.

Spraying the plant all over with Wallys Vaporgard will reduce the plants moisture requirements of up to 30%. A good idea for tomato plants in containers in a glasshouse when they are mature.

So when it’s going to be a nice hot sunny day in the morning go out and gently shake the plant so it vibrates and thus the flowers that are ready to set will set while there is moisture available. It’s no good shaking the plant too early or too late as flowers only produce pollen when it’s nice and sunny. Mid-morning is ideal time.

Once a month give the plant a sprinkling of Wally Secret Tomato food with Neem Granules which will also keep the white fly adult pests away.

Do the above and with a few of your favourite types of tomato plants you will have the best crops ever and more than enough to give away and made sauce etc.

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The Blenheim

Wednesday August 6, 2025

txt talk with The Sun Shrek

Rates

Combined Colleges production of Shrek.....simply amazing, I came away knowing I got my money’s worth.....unlike a local recent production which paled in comparison unfortunately.

Rates for the year gone up $400. You are absolutely the worse council, lovely spending rate payers money and wasting our money isn’t it, we need a rate cap. How about giving rate payers a break. You’re a law unto yourself.

Cost of living. Crisis.

Butter

Not suitable for parking

This week at PaknSave Pam’s 500g butter special $8.49. Olivani 500g $4.79. Other people probably already use Olivani for baking, cooking & as a spread. It’s not for everyone.

However it is lower in Cholesterol than butter.

Just an option. Empty containers ideal to freeze leftover meals & soup. Stack nicely in the freezer.

Rene Street is not built for purpose. Behind Harvey Norman is a two lane road, It has people parking on the side of street. It is not suitable for parking there. When busy people have to stop and let vehicles go. Should have yellow lines on both sides.

Paywave charges move wrong Sounds Air I agree with txt saying Stuart Smith our MP should be doing something about the loss of Sounds Air from here to Christchurch.

Maybe if he or his family had ever needed to access Christchurch hospital in an emergency he may do more than just have his photo and add in all our papers and at the airport.

Snapper limit Hey Tony Orman, why do you want to take six snapper a day! Haven’t we learnt from the past years on our blue cod, lets keep a good thing good, don’t get greedy!

The relative extortionate charges will be spread across all consumer products by retailers!

Meaning all customers will bear the costs!

Including those who are intelligent enough to remember their security numbers.

Paywave still remains the dumbest ‘innovation’ invented due to the associated fraud, plus recovery hassles and costs.

The solution’s simple, always use a security access number for purchases, and hey, no extra extortionate charge.

Council spending Why is it that the government is telling council’s to stop spending on non essential things and our council seems to be having a great old time spending our money on things we don’t need!

Civil Defence alerts Two CD alerts, boys crying wolf comes to mind.

Re: Sounds Air

27

Talk of the week Re Stop means stop Jacksons Rd and Old Renwick Road - so many vehicles there every day just cruising through the stop signs.

Emergency services To the St John staff who made the July 7 trip out here. Also, to the local fire brigade members who dropped what they were doing to help. We were very pleased to see you. Many thanks for your service.

Russell Smith

This government won’t help. They are happy to give tax cuts to business, tobacco, mining, landlords...the list goes on. The problem is this is a safe seat for the national party so they don’t care about us. Our MP is in his 4th term and still a back-bencher with no clout in cabinet.

He didn’t fight for ferries or the colleges and it’s the same for Sounds Air!

Yay you Russell Smith! Your smile hasn’t changed a bit.

Love the dog. Thank you Sun paper for his story.

To cyclist, you came across yet another “entitled” motorist. At most you held him up for three seconds!

Paywave fee shift

We reserve the right to publish at our discretion. Please note the opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Sun management.

Home show

Sun delivery

Entitled motorist

Right up there with fixing the chicken problem and blowing the price of eggs sky-high!

We welcome your texts on 027 242 5266.

Limit to 70 words please.

Recidivist driver Just read a front-page headline of a truck driver who caused an accident resulting in a fatality and injuries to 5 others because he was using his cellphone whilst driving.

The article then advised he had FOUR, yes FOUR, previous infringements for driving while using his phone!

Wake up Court Officials! This recidivist driver is never going to respect & obey the road rules - next time it could be a member of your family he kills or maims. For the safety of all of us, please keep this menace off our roads.

Support Picton businesses With London Quay closed to traffic for the upgrade, we need to support the lovely cafes and shops along there. Come on Picton and Marlborough get your caffeine fix or go for a browse. Winter is tough and these businesses deserve an extra bit of community support.

Re: ACT party at home show. Why were they there ? Maybe more seats so we can sit and be talked at!

Thank you to the person who is delivering The Sun to George Street. I have really missed it over the past few months. Great to have it in my letter box again.

Cost of living

Re: netball

Just watched the man begging by the ANZ giving change to a donor.

Free Palestine “With ‘a broken heart,’ Israeli literary giant David Grossman labels Gaza war a ‘genocide’”— The Times of Israel, 1 August. The tide has turned. No doubt Mr Grossman will receive the classic Israeli smear of being labelled a “self-hating Jew”. But that won’t stick anymore.

Free Palestine!

The men play for the women’s teams because they can’t win the competition in the men’s teams. Sound like sore losers.

Re music de-generation.

I think we are in the best generation of music NOW! Taylor Swift changed the game with her songwriting evolving from basic country to the best pop music of the last decade. An inspiration to little girls and a walking GDP needle mover. She’s amazing.

Shameful quote Golda Meir’s quote “Peace will come when the Arabs will love their children more than they hate us [Israelis]” has been mentioned a couple of times in this paper. Who could find a more racist, disgusting quote smearing and essentialising an entire people? Palestinians, and indeed their children, have the right to self-determination like us all. The forced starvation and genocide currently occurring is as a result of quotes like these. Shame on anyone who uses it.

Private company People don’t seem to realise that Sounds Air is a privately owned company. The tax payer should not have to support any business, regardless of who it is.

Got an important issue to share with Marlborough? Text your thoughts to 027 242 5266

28 Wednesday August 6, 2025

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Casual or Long Term Rentals Maintenance & Repair Services Locally Owned and Operated

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MOviNG / STORAGE

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Waste removal Rose pruning spots available now!

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021 055 8276

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Visiting podiatrist at Marlborough Health Hub 1st Wednesday of the month.

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Call Steve today

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For all your home & business IT needs

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To book an appointment email info@mobilepod.nz (fastest) or leave a message on 022 419 0205 (slower)

Systems to suit your home, lifestyle and budget • Finance available.

Buy now, pay later Jono Underwood Local Business Owner

021 869 808 0800 00 33 55 harrisonssolar.co.nz

Tree Removal Height Reduction Trimming/Thinning Branch Chipping Hedge Trimming Line Clearance Stump Grinding Mulch Supplies Fully Insured FREE QUOTES

Ph. 03 578 0083

(Lance) 021 361912 cts@xtra.co.nz

The Blenheim

Classifieds Advertising Ph 03 577 7868

Situations Vacant

DRIVER We are seeking a driver to add additional support to our existing weekly distribution team.

This is for one day per week, approx 8 hours.

You will need a clean NZ drivers licence class 1, be physically fit, and able to work from a detailed run sheet.

Public Notices Double-GlAzinG - Beat the rush with Marlborough Glass. Stay warm, dry, and healthy with Retro-fit Double Glazing for your Timber and Aluminium Windows.

DON’T DELAY - TALK TO US TODAY FOR A FREE MEASURE AND QUOTE! Ph 578-5374.

MARlboRouGH HunTinG & FiSHinG Come down to Marlborough Hunting and Fishing for all your outdoor needs.

46 Main Street, Blenheim ph 03 579 1600

Clothing Alterations:

by Lynette Atkinson-Parker For your sewing requirements Phone 03 578 1010 or 027 578 1010 Quality Service Guaranteed

WE HAVE MOVED Our new office is located at 4A/1 Market Street, Blenheim We will be open from Wednesday 6th August in our new location.

Contact details: P: 03 577 9919 | 0800 266 529 E: reception@commlawmarlb.org.nz W: www.commlawmarlb.org.nz Nau mai, haere mai, We’re here to help ACCESS | EMPOWERMENT | JUSTICE

AGM

Visit us online at

blenheimsun.co.nz

THE BLUE DOOR AGM Thursday 21 August 2025 at 5.00 pm Nativity Church Hall – 76 Alfred Street Business: Presentation of Annual Reports Election of Officers General Business All Welcome

$ 35

LUNCH S P E C IA L

Vineyard Kitchen $35.00 for main and a glass of wine or other beverage

FOUND

Kia ora/Welcome to Cancer Society Marlborough Cancer doesn’t wait and neither can we!

Renwick Arms Country Club Sunday the 31st of August 2025 at 2.30pm 92 High Street, Renwick.

Nominations close on Sunday the 24th of August at 6pm Any enquiries call Kelly 572 8597 or 0275728597 or email office@renwickarms.co.nz

29

Public Notices

To apply email: mark.kelly@mainlanddistribution.co.nz

Public Notices

Wednesday August 6, 2025

Available from 1st August to 29th August, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays Reservations Essential | Conditions Apply

Main excludes Duck Confit and Celebration Platter.

Maximum booking size of 17. Please inform us that you are using this offer at the time of booking. Not to be used with any other offer or discount.

www.saintclair.co.nz • 13 Selmes Road (off Rapaura Road) Blenheim cellardoor@saintclair.co.nz • Phone 03 570 5280

Small child’s bicycle, on the roadside on the Tuamarina Track approximately 5.5km from the SH6 turn-off. Had been there for a few days and was found with several other items.

Please phone Kim on 022-197-8299 if this is yours.

Here’s how individuals and businesses can get involved • Donate: Every dollar stays here in Marlborough • Volunteer: Help us bunch daffodils & deliver them • Order daffodils for yourself or your family Local Business • Host a donation box • Buy fresh daffodils for the office • Fundraise at Work – host a morning tea, a dress up day, or a friendly competition • Display a poster • Make a donation Go to daffodilday.co.nz

Daffodil Day Volunteers Daffodil Day is just around the corner, we are starting to make arrangements for our annual street appeal on Friday 29th August. We’ll be contacting the many volunteers who have helped us in previous years.

Please let us know if you would like to help with preparations for fresh daffodils or the street appeal.

You can email our Volunteer Coordinator, Hilary on hilary.g@cancersocorg.nz or call our office to find out more on 03 579 4379 Ngā mihi nui, The Cancer Society Marlborough team

For Lease

ADOPT-A-PET

OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE • 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

news tips Send your tips to news@blenheimsun.co.nz

Annie is very chilled out and loves to play.

NAME: Annie AGE: 8 years old GENDER: Female, spayed BREED: Mixed PERSONAL STATEMENT:

She would suit a gentle, quieter home where she can enjoy treats, lounging in the sun and playing with her favourite toys.

Cancer Society Marlborough, 76a Maxwell Rd, PO Box 233, Blenheim. Phone 03 579 4379 Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9.00am-4:00pm

I would love a quiet home with lots of sun to lay in. I’m a super smooch looking for a mature companion with a warm knee to sleep on.

All our cats are litter box trained and they have completed their essential vet care unless otherwise specified.

Cancer Contacts

For more information or to start the adoption process scan the QR Code or visit www.marlboroughfourpaws.co.nz

Email address: marlborough@cancersoc.org.nz Cancer helpline: 0800 CANCER (226 237) Cancer Society website: www.cancer.org.nz for reliable and up to date information, links and chat forums.

The Cancer Society is funded entirely by charitable donations and thanks the Marlborough community for its continued support.

30 Wednesday August 6, 2025

URGENT services 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 8.30am 6pm. 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 9.30am 4pm. 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

Golf Results Picton Golf club Sat 26 July Par-Alistair Holt -1, Mark Ivamy -1Ant Booker -1, Aaron Wilson -2, John Saxon-2, Jeff Pascoe -2, Hayden Gaudin -3, Ian Molloy -3, Phillip Hawke -4, Trevor Gullery -4Jock Mannington -4, Wayne Pratt-4.

Thurs 31 July S/F-Alistair Holt 39, Ant Booker 37, Blair Wyatt 36, Barry Slater 34, Tim McCaffrey 34, Hiram Taylor34, Rodger Jones 33.

Fri 1 Aug 9H S/F-Lin Stone 18, Maria Mc Conway 15, Judy Jones 14.

In Memoriam Remember your lost loved one on their anniversary.

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.

The Blenheim

Death notices BRIDGMAN, Brian Edward: Passed away on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at Maxwell Lifecare. Aged 83 years. Dearly loved husband for 57 years of the late Margaret. Loved son of the late William and Dorena (Dunedin). Loving father and father-in-law of Leanne and Didier Sockeel (Australia), Paul, Shona and Bernie (Christchurch), and Julie. Dearly loved by his granddaughters Courtney, Samara and Danielle, Isabelle and Audrey. Loved brother and brother-in-law of Ronald and Te Kapo (both deceased), Allan and Barbara, Victor (deceased), Glenis and George Clark, Avis and Alister (deceased) Anderson, Wayne and Janice (deceased). Loved uncle of all his nieces and nephews. Loved by his animal companions Codie (dog), Smooch and Queenie (cats). Life Member of the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes, Churchill Lodge #94. Grateful thanks to all the staff at Maxwell Lifecare. Messages may be sent to the Bridgman family at 13 Park View Lane, Blenheim 7201. In lieu of flowers a donation to the Blenheim RSA would be appreciated and may be made to a/c 01-0598-001990101 Ref. BRIDGMAN. A service for Brian has been held. The service was livestreamed and details may be accessed via our website www.sowmans.co.nz/upcoming-funerals.

T: 03 578 4719 E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz W: www.sowmans.co.nz

FENN, John Richard: Passed away peacefully after a short illness, at the Marlborough Hospice on Thursday 31st July 2025, in his 90th Year. Loved and cherished Dad and Father-in-law of Adele and Ian, Andy and Leanne, Sara and Terry, Liz and Doug, Mark and Fiona. Adored Grandad of Samuel, Kaitlyn, Jack, Harry, Rachel, Jacob, Taine, and Toby. Friend and companion of Honey, Foxy and his 9 barn cats. The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Wairau Hospital and Marlborough Hospice for their care and support, a special mention to Lexie the Hospice cat for keeping a close eye on John’s meowbeing.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Marlborough Hospice, SPCA or Marlborough Four Paws would be greatly appreciated. A celebration of John’s life will be held in the Sowmans Mayfield Chapel, Cnr of Hutcheson and Parker Sts, Wednesday 6th August (today) at 11am, followed by a private cremation. The service will be livestreamed and details may be accessed via our website www.sowmans. co.nz/upcoming-funerals

T: 03 578 4719 E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz W: www.sowmans.co.nz

FERNE, Sonya Jean (Crocombe): On 1 August 2025, peacefully at Ashwood Park Rest Home, aged 79 years. Dearly loved mother of Sharlene Love (Wellington) and Keith Crocombe (Blenheim). Loved Nana of Ferne and Ben. A loved and respected guitar teacher of her many students.

Messages to c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz Special thanks to the wonderful staff at Ashwood Park for their care of Sonya. In accordance with Sonya’s wishes, a private cremation has taken place. You are welcome to attend a celebration of Sonya’s life at the Mercy Chapel, St Mary’s Parish, Maxwell Road, Blenheim on Monday 11 August at 11.00am.

Cloudy Bay Funerals 03 578 2004 F.D.A.N.Z.

MAPP, Valerie Lois, “Val” (née McKenzie): Late of Pine Valley. August 7, 1950 – July 31, 2025. Died peacefully at home with her family near. Much loved wife of Lloyd; mother of Roland, Vanessa, and the late Hayden; Nana of Jaimee, Ben, Sarah, Lincoln, and Nelson. Well known and respected member of the community, founder of Pine Valley Outdoor Centre, and of the Wairau Valley Garden Tour. Messages may be sent to the Mapp family at 2486 North Bank Road, Pine Valley, North Bank 7275. Flowers may be set to Terracedale Florist, 117 Hospital Road, Witherlea, Blenheim. A celebration of Val’s life will be held at the Church of the Nativity, 76 Alfred Street, Blenheim on Saturday August 9, at 2.00pm. At Val’s request please wear bright colours. The service will be livestreamed and details may be accessed at https://youtube.com/live/Qsbjpo7aEJg?feature=share T: 03 578 4719 E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz W: www.sowmans.co.nz

OLSEN, Shirley Ann: On 3 August 2025, peacefully at Springlands Lifestyle Village, Blenheim aged 87 years. Dearly loved mother and mother-inlaw of Shayne and Louise; Lou and Charlie Procter; Jackie and Fraser McDonald; and the late Lena and Laurence. A much-loved Nana and Great Nana. Wife of the late Bernie Olsen. Messages to the Olsen family c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www. cloudybayfunerals.co.nz Heartfelt thanks to the staff at Springlands Lifestyle Village for their wonderful care. A celebration of Shirley’s life will be held at the Queen Charlotte Yacht Club, Shelley Beach Picton on Saturday 9 August at 1.00pm followed by private cremation. The service will be livestreamed and can be viewed on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services website.

Cloudy Bay Funerals 03 578 2004 F.D.A.N.Z.

ROGERS, Leslie Vernon (Les) aka – Buck, Vernon, Bernie: (Well known at the Marlborough Auctions) On 1 August 2025 at Redwood Retirement Village, Blenheim, aged 86 years. Dearly loved husband of the late Diane. Loved father and friend of Sandra and Rob, Julie and Davey, Lynlea and Robert, Erin and Ritchie.

Grandad to Jordan, Courtney, Alisha, Kyle, Charlotte, Brylee, Ryan and their partners.

Messages to the Rogers family c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals. co.nz In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Blenheim Salvation Army via their website would be appreciated or may be made at the service. The family wishes to thank the staff and carers at Redwood Lifestyle Village for their tender care of Les during the last month. Thank you to his 41 Club mates for their continued friendship. A celebration of Les’s life will be held at the Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, 15 Boyce Street on Thursday 7 August at 2.00pm followed by private cremation. The service will be livestreamed and can be viewed on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services website.

Cloudy Bay Funerals 03 578 2004 F.D.A.N.Z.

All your community news now also on the Blenheim Sun Facebook page

RUSSELL, Frederick (Fred) George: Passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on Friday 1st August 2025 at Hospice Marlborough, aged 80 years. Beloved husband of Lynley. A cherished and special father and father-in-law to Jason & Laura, Clayton & Elisa, Michelle & Grant.

Adored Pop to Emily, Mitchell, Khloe, Brook, Charlie, Niah, Autumn and Skye.

Brother of Horace(dec), Una (dec), Phylis(dec), Eileen (Chick) and John. Fred will be remembered with deep love and gratitude for the kindness, humour, and warmth he shared with all who knew him. A special thank you to the wonderful staff at Hospice Marlborough for their care and compassion during Fred’s final days. Messages to the Russell Family c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz In accordance with Fred’s wishes, a private cremation has taken place and a memorial get together will be held at a later date; details to be advised.

Cloudy Bay Funerals 03 578 2004 F.D.A.N.Z.

Sun Babies

Scollard: Freddie George Born July 9, 2025, 12.11am Weight 7.7lbs Hospital Wairau Hospital Dean and Stace Scollard would like to announce the birth of Freddie George Scollard on July 9th at 12.11am at Wairau Hospital A beloved baby brother for Billie.

A huge thank you to midwives Aimee North and Nathalie Gee and all the staff in the maternity ward.

Firewood DRy pine, well prepared 3 cubic metres $280 delivered Blenheim Picton Renwick ph 027326-7416.

To Rent Two bedroom cottage, 40 minutes from Blenheim. Quiet peacefully living, Phone 035725400.

Wanted to Buy 7”, 45s, singles, eps records wanted, any amount, top prices paid. Pennylane Records, 430 Colombo Street, Sydenham. Ring Dave 021 222 6144, 7 days.

PENNylaNE Records always buying records. Excellent prices paid. 430 Colombo Street, Sydenham 366 3278 Open 7 days Small house, bach, shed or section with no covenants, town or country. anything considered. Phone 0211889273.

REcoRDS wanted by local bands 60s to 2000s. I will pay Serenity Piece of Mind $2000, Mantis Turn into Music $2000, Butler Ip $700, also wanted Ticket, Lutha, Space Farm, Farmyard, Little John, Bari and the Breakaways, Taylor, Pleazers, Dr Tree, Underdogs, posters, tapes, photos, acetates etc. Dave 021 222 6144 Pennylane Records, Sydenham 7 days.

The Blenheim 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 Older Persons Seminar – Held 4th Thursday of each month. $6.00. Contact Donna 027 385 2333 or donna@stchristophers. co.nz Table Tennis - Blenheim Indoor Sports Centre. Table Tennis session every Thursday, 6.30pm - 8.30pm, $6 per person to be paid at front desk.

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: “Anything Else?”. Prior contact appreciated, but walk-ins welcome. Contact: info@ blenheimbibleeducation.nz. Website: www. blenheimbibleeducation.nz.”

Friday Blenheim Family History Group in Picton

what’s on in marlborough - 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 9.30am-10.30am.

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.

Saturday 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, 9:00am - 2:00pm Stallholders include local artisans both casual and regular attendees as well as visitors from around the country. Entertainment area for kids.

Sunday 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 3rd 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, 2:00-3:00pm & 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 Marlborough Bereavement Group meets second Tuesday of every month (except January) from 10.30am - noon in the Savvy Bar of the Scenic Hotel in Alfred Street for a cuppa and a chat. (Buy your own beverage). Phone 0274389024 for more information.

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 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 comradery - FREE exercise and peer support - Every Tuesday -10 am Stadium 2000, Kinross Street, Blenheim.

Cancer Society Marlborough: Breast Cancer Support Group - Peer support and

Wednesday August 6, 2025

Woodbourne Half MaratHon – 10th august. a festival of running to cater for all ages and abilities. 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.

Wednesday Marlborough Community Singers – All welcome whether completely new or an old hand. No audition. New term begins Wednesday July 16th at REAP, 6.30pm-8.30pm. $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

31

– 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.

Cancer Society Marlborough Stretch & Breathe - Gentle strength/balance class for seniors.

10-11am, $3.00. St Christopher’s Church Hall, 92 Weld St, Ph 0273852333 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 Group - 7.30pm 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

Coming Up: 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 Woodbourne Half Marathon – 10th August. A festival of running to cater for all ages and abilities. 5km and 10km safe and family focused events, held on vineyard land, can be participated or competitive. Half marathon can be done as a run or walk or hybrid. RNZAF Woodbourne, Cnr SH6 and Caldwell Road, Blenheim.

Entry $10-$50, tickets from www. eventfinder.co.nz 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.

Defensive Driving OctOber Become a safer and more skillful driver. This course is for people on their learner licence or restricted licence, it reduces wait times to gain your full licence. Includes a 1 hour drive.

Supporting our community through Education Phone 03 578 7848 | 65 Seymour St, Blenheim

Tues 14th, Thurs 16th, Tues 21st and Thurs 23rd October plus a fifth session at a time you book (a 1 hour practical session, 1:1 with the instructor)

Times: 6pm - 8pm Price: $190 per person Tutor: Eddie Van der Westhuizen Book online at www.reapmarlborough.co.nz

32 Wednesday August 6, 2025

Stuart Smith MP for Kaikōura

Supporting our local communities Amberley Electorate Office 103a Carters Road, Amberley 03 314 7441 Blenheim Electorate Office 22 Scott Street, Blenheim 03 579 3204 or 0800 STUART stuart.smithmp@parliament.govt.nz

Authorised by Stuart Smith, Parliament Buildings, Wellington.

The Blenheim