29 May 2024 The Blenheim Sun

By Chris Valli

Blenheim’s Marlborough Academy of Dance family have cause for ‘epic’ celebrations after members of their dancing team have qualified for the Hip-hop Unite Championships in Portugal. Continued on page 2.

Marlborough Academy of Dance students - duo Immy Giles and Sam Marfell along with Icey Bradley-Kiwi and Filimoe’ulie Fotu-Moala are set to represent Marlborough and New Zealand on the world stage. Photo: Chris Valli.

How to reach us

Simon Byrne

simon@blenheimsun.co.nz Sales Manager

Katrina Whiteside

Sales Consultant

katrina@blenheimsun.co.nz

Rebecca Sampson

Sales Consultant

rebecca@blenheimsun.co.nz

Chris Valli

news@blenheimsun.co.nz Journalist

Want to earn money and get fit, become a Sun deliverer!

Ph: (03) 5777-868

72 High St, Blenheim Mon-Thu 9am-4.30pm www.blenheimsun.co.nz

No.1 for readership in Marlborough.

‘The opportunity is not unrealistic’

Continued from page 1.

Duo Sam Marfell and Immy Giles along with Filimoe’ulie Fotu-Moala and Icey Bradley-Kiwi bought their sass, passion, energy and creativity at the 2024 Hip Hop Unite New Zealand Nationals in Lower Hutt.

Sam, 15 and Immy, 16, have been dancing as a duo for the past four years. Their qualification for the world championships is testimony to their hard work, rapport and relationship.

Sam says she started dancing because of hip hop and says the best thing about the genre is that there is no technique to it and she is able to ‘do what she wants’ artistically.

“When we started it was so different. We have learnt so much going to different competitions and now we understand the environment and what the judges want,” says Sam.

“It’s about showing yourself, your expression and difference. There are so many competitors and you just have to stand out.”

‘We’re pretty good at it now,” (standing out) they laugh. “It also kind of depends on choreography and who you get it from and what the style is,” says Immy.

Immy says she is excited and happy with the opportunity to travel to Portugal and be part of something truly amazing. The culture from the teachers/coaches at MAD is ‘really good’ according to Immy and says it’s always fun going to class as it’s ‘really tight’ as a family.

Filimoe’ulie Fotu-Moala, 23, agrees. He says dance was something ‘he grew up with culturally’ and when at Marlborough Boys’ College, that was when he started learning hip hop and other dance styles.

“Dance is like another language, I don’t talk much and I’m quite introverted. Dance is my expression. Coming away from the nationals in Wellington, I’m proud of what I’ve done but I’m happier for the girls, it hasn’t hit me yet, it probably will when we get on the plane,” he says.

Meanwhile, fellow MAD dancer, Icey Bradley-Kiwi, 13, competed one of her Hip Hop solos choreographed by Hana Morris in the junior solo category (12-18 years) at Hip Hop Unite and came away with first place Junior Solo National Champion for 2024.

Unfortunately Hip Hop Unite does not have a solo world qualifying section. However, in March Icey competed at the Battlegrounds Competition in Hamilton and qualified to compete at the World Supremacy Battlegrounds Finals in Sydney in June and will represent Blenheim and Marlborough Academy of Dance with her solo.

MAD Hip Hop dance coach Fleur Hebberd says different dance styles connect to different types of music from 80s, using what is known as a locking style (freezing from a fast movement and locking in a certain position, relying on fast, distinct

arm and hand movements) to 90s old school R&B. Fleur says regarding funding, the girls are applying for a grant to the Inspire Foundation, the registered charity dedicated to supporting Marlborough’s young talent. Fair to say the MAD team have support and talent in abundance.

Sam says what excites her most about Portugal is seeing the dance competition environment on a world stage. She says any advice for

Sam and Immy have danced as a duo for the past four years. Sam says Hip Hop is about showing expression and difference. “There are so many competitors and you just have to stand out,” she says.

aspiring dancers is that such success and opportunity is ‘not unrealistic’. “No dream is too high and your attitude can take you a long way. Living in somewhere like Blenheim doesn’t stop you,” says Fili.

The dancers head to the Hip Hop Unite World Championships in Obidus, Portugal in October 24-26. If Sun readers or a Marlborough business would like to sponsor the dancers contact fleurhebberd@live. com.au

Bob Barnes | Barry Holmwood | Ethan Williams | Terry Ryan

Ford, Shiloh make themselves at home

By Chris Valli

A Ford Falcon, the bird not the car, and her male companion have been getting rather familiar with the good tucker at Jan Moss’ Rarangi home.

Kārearea often hunt live prey, mainly by watching from a vantage point.

However, Ford, a 10-year-old female Kārearea New Zealand falcon and companion Shiloh have become comfortably acquainted on a purpose-built table, near the fence on Jan and husband Bob’s home.

Jan says when Ford landed on her fence 10 years ago, it was her grandson at the time that recognised her from the confides of the kitchen, perched outside. Shiloh joined her about 18 months later.

“We couldn’t catch her so my son Sean rang Diana (Dobson) at the Marlborough Falcon Trust and she came out the next morning. We found out she had an injured left foot. Diana decided if we were able to feed her, we would do so.

“As luck would have it, she had a dead road kill sparrow in the car and Ford ate it.”

Diana told them at the time, that if it wasn’t for Jan and Bob’s intervention, by feeding Ford, she would’ve died, as a six month old.

Normally, a Kārearea diet includes a range of animals, including insects, small mammals, and

lizards, but consists mainly of birds. However, Ford is fed daily, sometimes twice, with chicken hearts, four/five at a time, which are going down a treat. Ford tends to arrive at dusk, depending on the weather.

When Diana came out to the Rarangi home, she mentioned that she was a juvenile female. Initially, there were some ‘horrendous fights’ over who had the upper hand territorially.

“Once they flee the nest and are able to catch food on their wing they have to find a new place or territory,” says Jan. “She’s been coming ever since. The feathers on her legs change colour when she is breeding, (in the spring and summer) like a salmon pink colour. The feathers look a lot like pants.”

‘She can’t catch or carry her own food. She’ll take a chicken heart away and instantaneously lifts it up off the table, onto her beak and swaps onto her claw, if you’re not watching you don’t see it happen,” she says.

Shiloh was named such because Jan says he was and is rather shy.

‘I talk to them often and so does my husband…there’s your dinner, there’s a good girl,” she laughs.

“As long as the food is there, it will come.

“She will not let him eat her food. She will stand there with her wings back while he is on the pole

FINGER LICKIN GOOD: Shiloh waits patiently for his feed as Ford tucks into some hearty chicken at Jan Moss’ Rarangi home.

making a song and dance, but she still won’t feed him. If he’s lucky, she’ll give him a little morsel. She is really bossy, like, don’t you dare come near me.”

The Kārearea population is one of 38 species of falcon worldwide with the New Zealand falcon endemic to this country. It is estimated that the population is likely between 5000 – 8000 making

them rarer than all species of Kiwi. There are three ecological forms of falcons. One form is the large paler ‘Eastern’ falcon which lives in open, dryer habitats east of the Southern Alps but extend from coast to coast in the central South Island.

Jan and husband Bob have been looking after the Kārearea falcons for the past 10 years.

Sun The

Fatality following Blenheim crash

A person has died following a May 22 crash on State Highway 1 near Lower Wairua Road, Grovetown, Blenheim.

The crash, involving a van and a ute, was reported to Police at around 1pm on 22 May. The driver of the van was critically injured in the crash and was airlifted to Wellington Hospital. Sadly, he passed away in hospital on Saturday, May 24.

Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

$24 million boost for Gumboot Friday

Thousands more young New Zealanders, including those in Marlborough, will have better access to mental health services.

“Budget 2024 will provide $24 million over four years to contract the I Am Hope Foundation to provide young people aged between 5 and 25 years with free mental health counselling services through the Gumboot Friday initiative,” Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters says.

Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey says prevention and early intervention are a critical part of dealing with mental health, and Gumboot Friday plays a vital role in enabling youth with mild to moderate mental health needs to access counselling services earlier.

Havelock Craft Fair

The Craft Fair is on at the Havelock Town Hall June 1 - 3, from 10am. Get along and enjoy a sausage sizzle, and lots of crafts and plants. Supporting the Havelock St John Youth Group. Entry is free.

inbrief

Sun The

Why Keep it Secret Seminar

Marlborough District Council and Grey Power are hosting a Why Keep it Secret Seminar on May 30th at the Nativity Centre from 10.15am.

This is a free seminar open to anyone who is interested in taking the guesswork and worry out of capturing their arrangements/wishes.

Light refreshments will be provided. All are welcome.

The Woody Pig & Deer Hunt

This iconic local event is on again this King’s Birthday Weekend, May 31 - June 2.

Some great major spots are up for grabs plus heaps of spot prizes.

Make sure you get your entries in. Entries close May 30.

Kindling Wood

Alzheimers Marlborough has great value bags of kindling wood available again this year.

Priced at just $5 per bag, you will be saving money and supporting the important work that Alzheimers Marlborough carries out in our community.

The kindling can be picked up from Alzheimers Marlborough, 8 Wither Road, 9am - 3.30pm daily.

If anyone has sacks left over from last year, we would love to get them back. Alzheimers Marlborough, keeping you warm this winter.

‘Tell me you’d do nothing’

By Chris Valli

Lesley Hunt says she can appreciate that hunting is a rite of passage for most Kiwi males and some females.

However, as of last week, she is totally against the use of ‘pig dogs’.

She says a ‘successful hunter’ is one who has well trained dogs, which signal the presence of deer and pigs meaning there is no contact by the dogs and the animal is dispatched accordingly by gun.

“Very little trauma involved if it’s a clean shot,” she says.

However, last Wednesday, Lesley was on her own, driving back from Picton along Queen Charlotte Drive with groceries in the back of the car. She noticed a goat sitting on the edge of the road, not moving.

Lesley Hunt says as of last week, she is totally against the use of ‘pig dogs after finding out it had been mauled.

“Sensing all was not well, I stopped a bit further up the road and walked back to it. It took a while for my brain to comprehend what I was looking at,” she says. (It) was horrific surely to anyone with an ounce of humanity or consciousness.” She added the poor creature had no ears, ‘just the raw inside’.

“I thought at first that they had been cut off by some sub human but have since found out they were ripped off by pig dogs. Blood around all her legs turned out to be very bad bruising where she had been grabbed. She couldn’t stand up.”

Lesley says she couldn’t find the emergency number for the SPCA and knew, they only deal with domestic animals and called 111. As it turned out the police said they would contact

the council and she rolled her eyes.

After about a 20 minute period, Lesley says many cars travelling along Queen Charlotte Drive ignored her and the goat, until ‘a lovely young man’ turned around and offered to help her.

“We got the goat on the back of his truck and carried on until my husband met us and we transferred the goat onto his ute,” she says. “He took it home and dispatched it quickly with his gun. Finally out of its misery.”

Lesley says the experience was an ethical one and says to many, it may have been just a wild goat and to a lot of people that’s all it was.

“Many would ignore it, carry on and even if they had noticed it, would not have done anything. I couldn’t,” she says.

Award winning

Robinson Construction Ltd came away with three awards at the Master Builders New Zealand Commercial Projects Awards Ceremony last week.

The three awards were for Te Kahu o Waipuna, Marlborough District Libraries and the Marlborough Art Gallery. The first award was CATEGORY WINNER in the Tourism and Leisure Category while they picked up Gold in the Tourism and Leisure Category. The third award was VALUE AWARD WINNER in the Commercial Project $10 - $25M Category.

Luke van Luke van Velthooven, APL Property, Marlborough Mayor Nadine Taylor, Mark Watson and Phil Robinson of Robinson Construction Ltd and Maighan Watson, project manager for Marlborough District Council.

Full circle for Wing Commander

By Chris Valli

The fanfare of a military parade was on full display at RNZAF Base Woodbourne last Thursday to herald a change of command.

Wing Commander Michele Mitchell is the new Base Commander, taking over the role from Group Captain Paul Drysdale, who’s held the position since late 2021.

Group Captain Drysdale conducted an inspection of the parade before Wing Commander Mitchell and her family were greeted onto the parade ground.

An impressive haka welcomed the new base commander after Group Captain Drysdale handed over the Symbol of Base Command, a large wooden patu, which was blessed.

“RNZAF Base Woodbourne has played a key role in my development, firstly as an aircraft tradesperson, then as a young engineering officer, and now my development will continue as I embark on this next leg of my journey, as your Base Commander,” Wing Commander Mitchell says. Her new role comes at a time when the Royal New Zealand

Air Force is implementing its initiative Plan Astra – which aims to bolster the base.

“For us here at Woodbourne, that means we will continuously review and adjust our training, to ensure it adequately prepares our aviators for future missions; missions that will demand resilience, agility, and an ability to integrate effectively with our military partners and other key organisations,” Wing Commander Mitchell says.

“In addition to our groundbased training, we will continue to develop Woodbourne’s capability to provide a high-end operational training environment, supporting the collective Air Force to train as well as fight.”

Wing Commander Mitchell paid tribute to the base’s former commander, Group Captain Drysdale. “It is an absolute privilege to take over command from you,” she says.

“During our handover I have seen the outstanding work you have achieved here and I have only heard high praise for the leadership you have delivered, and challenging decisions you have made over the past two and half years.”

An engineer by trade, Wing Commander Mitchell’s return to Woodbourne marks a full circle as she began her Air Force career there in 1996. She says that while many of the core elements are the same, training has undergone a num-

ber of changes since then.

“The reasons why we join the Air Force haven’t changed much over time – we want to go overseas, we want to get good training, be part of serving our country and having a real sense of purpose in what we do.”

Te Reo Māori revitalisation

Te Reo Māori revitalisation symposium returns to Wairau with an inspirational line up of speakers.

Te Kaiaotanga o Te Reo will take place at the ASB Theatre in Wairau on Thursday 30 and Friday 31 May. Tickets available now via www. tekaiaotangaotereo.co.nz

Get on board the Picton bus

Marlburians are encouraged to get on board a new, extended Picton bus service including Saturdays.

Council has approved the trial of a Saturday bus service for 12 months, funded from existing budgets.

There have been a number of enquiries about a Saturday service from the Picton community, particularly to visit the new Marlborough Library and Art Gallery at Te Kahu o Waipuna in Blenheim.

The trial will also enable Picton residents to make use of the facilities at Marlborough Lines Stadium 2000 and allow Blenheim residents to visit Picton for the day.

The trial is budgeted at $27,500 and will start this Saturday 25 May. It will be assessed after 12 months to consider the volumes compared to the weekday service and the information will be presented to Council to consider.

The ticket price is $4 (adult) each way; $2 for under 18s. For further information go to: links. marlborough.govt.nz/busroutes

Blenheim Toyota

Wing Commander Michele Mitchell is the new Base Commander at RNZAF Base Woodbourne following a change of command ceremony at the Marlborough base.

Graeme Dingle Foundation Marlborough had their Drop for Youth fundraiser with Skydive Abel Tasman at the weekend. We asked, what was the feeling once the parachute touched the ground?’ Sun readers have their say... with the WORD on the Street.

Ayla Shaw

Blenheim

I was thankful I was back on the ground again but I was also like ‘wowza I just did that’ and a little bit like ‘I wish I could do that again.‘ But definitely like, ‘I like being on the ground.’

Debbie Fisher Blenheim

I did it. I was proud of myself. The freefall was scary but once the chute opened it was so peaceful up there and the view was epic.

To the Editor Letters

Letters on issues of community interest are welcomed. A maximum of 150 words please.

They must be signed and a street address provided to show good faith, even when a nom de plume is provided for publication.

The editor reserves the right to abridge letters or withhold letters from publication.

Email them to news@blenheimsun. co.nz or drop in to our office at 72 High St.

Please note that your name and street address MUST be provided with emails.

Letters/Opinions not necessarily those of the Sun management.

Greg Joyce Blenheim

Almost sad it was over. I would definitely recommend it.

OMG – adrenaline. I wasn’t even nervous until I got to go up there. The scariest part was the initial fall and then it was so much fun. And the view was amazing.

Relief but also just want to do it again.

It was less scary than I thought.

Dear Ed.

How do we, the ratepayers and residents of Blenheim, affect real change in the manner of which our local Council conducts its business in our region? By the Council I am referring to the Mayor, the Councillors and the unelected salary staff.

Once these people are in posi-

A collective voice Council response

Dear Sir,

In response to claims made by Mr Chris Davies in the Blenheim Sun, I’d like to clarify a couple of things. I do of course sympathise with his general point that inflation is having a great impact on everyone, including councils.

However Marlborough District Council’s rates increase this

tion it seems that we are no longer seen or heard, some may suggest we are wilfully ignored.

The Council has PR processes that say much, promise much but deliver little, if anything that will allow and encourage this region to grow in a way that is fair and equitable for all.

We have a Mayor that no longer

year is below that of most other councils, at 12.95%. The national average is 15%, which means many are higher than that.

Also, the average residential rates paid by a Marlborough household in 2022/23 were $2,853, which is just above the halfway mark of all councils in the country. Rates are significant-

agrees with the Democratic Process of, one person one vote. This has the potential to lead to a situation where the undemocratically, unelected will have the power of veto over Council business.

Blenheim needs to give serious thought to the establishment of a Rate Payers and Residents Collective, so that we may challenge the

ly higher elsewhere including in Nelson City and Tasman District.

Perhaps Mr Davies could focus his efforts on encouraging the Government to reimburse the $1.1 billion taken from ratepayers each year through charging GST on everyone’s rates bill? This would return $11m a year to Marlborough.

Call for growers to vote in HortNZ referendum

By Chris Valli

Marlborough fruit and vegetable growers are being encouraged to have their say in the upcoming levy referendum to enable Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) to continue its work for the sector.

The levy is paid by all commercial growers on the sale of New Zealand grown fruit and vegetables. Growers have been sent a levy proposal

document and voting papers have been sent to all eligible growers.

A renewed levy would apply for six years, from the expiry of the current levy order in March 2025. The organisation is proposing that the levy rate remains at the maximum levy rate of 15 cents per $100 of sales.

HortNZ president Barry O’Neil encouraged growers to cast their vote and have their say on the or-

ganisation continuing its important work on behalf of New Zealand’s 4,200+ commercial fruit and vegetable growers.

“Running a horticulture business in New Zealand is often a 24/7 job,” says Mr O’Neil. “We’re asking growers to take a moment from their busy schedule to vote in the referendum. Without the levy, the organisation will be wound up and there will be no strong voice

in our sector.”

HortNZ chief executive Nadine

Tunley says feedback from growers during consultation meetings held earlier this year shows that growers value the work of the organisation.

“Levies are used for a wide variety of programmes including policy, advocacy, labour and capability development. All things that have a strong focus on enabling the

Mayor, personnel, to do as we the people who live here want them to do. To be the voice for those affected but unable to speak.

“It is not in numbers, but in unity, that our greatest strength lies”. Thomas Paine.

T Hansen Blenheim

Economist Brad Olsen (Infometrics) has modelled this - please see www.infometrics. co.nz/article/2024-04-the-costof-returning-gst-from-rates-tolocal-councils

Yours sincerely, Mark Wheeler Chief Executive Marlborough District Council

production of fruit and vegetables. By voting ‘yes’, growers will be supporting HortNZ to help them to make more informed decisions for their businesses, provide them with certainty to invest, give them tools, resources and services to lift their productivity and profitability, and ensure their voice is heard at all levels.”

Voting for the referendum closes on 14 June.

Michael Boyd Blenheim

Margot Taylor Blenheim

McKenzie Haronga Blenheim

Get on board the Picton bus

Marlburians are encouraged to get on board a new Saturday Picton/Blenheim bus service.

Council has approved the trial of a Saturday bus service for 12 months, funded from existing budgets. There have been a number of enquiries about such a service from the Picton community, particularly to visit the new Marlborough Library and Art Gallery at Te Kahu o Waipuna in Blenheim. The trial will also enable Picton residents to make use of the facilities at Marlborough Lines Stadium 2000 and allow Blenheim residents to visit Picton for the day. It costs $4 each way to travel (adult) and $2 for under-18s.

Bike-Walk and Public Transport portfolio holder Councillor Jonathan Rosene said there was existing budget to conduct the trial. “We encourage people to get on board and make use of the opportunities

Puna

it will provide for travel in both directions. This is good for both road safety and the environment.”

The trial is budgeted at $27,500 and started on Saturday. It will be assessed after 12 months to consider the volumes compared to the weekday service and the information will be presented to Council to consider. The Picton bus service started in June 2023 and currently has 390 passengers per week, and is operated by contractor Ritchies.

For further information go to: links. marlborough.govt.nz/busroutes

Wai springs from Te Tātoru o Wairau

The aspirations of hockey in Marlborough rose like water from the ground with the recent dawn blessing and opening of a new water turf and pavilion – Puna Wai Hockey Stadium - on Nelson Street at Marlborough Girls’ College.

The opening of the new facility follows Council surrendering the lease of College Park, Hockey Marlborough’s current home, in 2021, to the Ministry of Education. At the time it was planned that Bohally Intermediate would be reconstructed on College Park as part of the Combined Schools Project – Te Tātoru o Wairau - and a new hockey turf and pavilion would be built near the Marlborough Girls’ College. In January 2024 the Combined Schools Project was cancelled by the Government but the hockey turf development was already underway. Rangitāne o Wairau, Ngāti Kuia, Ngāti Toa Rangatira and Ngāti Rārua representatives led the blessing attended by Mayor Nadine Taylor, Marlborough Girls’ College acting principal Emily Stenhouse and board member Brian Roughan, Hockey Marlborough chair Jodie Lawson, many of those involved in the new facility’s design and construction, community members and students of both the girls’ and boys’ colleges.

Iwi gifted the name Puna Wai (spring of water), described by Mayor Taylor as a “true taonga”, to the new building. Waipuna is the area of town in which the turf is located.

The turf was designed by Hugh Barnes Consultants and built by Findlater Construction. Cuddons, Callahan Martella, TC Nicholls and Tiger Turf were also involved. The 590m2 twostorey hockey pavilion was designed by Arthouse Architects and built by Robinson Construction with local sub-contractors. It comprises changing rooms and showers, a meeting room, kitchen, large community area and an external deck.

Rabbit control on Taylor River Reserve starts in July

Increasing numbers of rabbits on the Taylor River Reserve area are to be controlled.

Two areas are being targeted, both on the western side of the river.

The first 49-hectare block runs from Doctors Creek through to the boundary of the lifestyle block area on Waters Avenue and the second 21-hectare block runs from the Wither Road extension through to Richardson Avenue.

The pest control operation is planned to start in July and reserve users are advised to avoid walking dogs in the area. Those who still want to exercise their dog are asked to ensure they are on a leash.

Council will use pindone poison laid in fenced bait stations followed by night shooting to reduce numbers. This will help get rabbit numbers below the required level set in Marlborough’s Regional Pest Management Plan.

The Park and Open Spaces team advised councillors that the rabbit population in the Taylor River Reserve

Taylor River works

Improvement works are continuing on the Taylor River either side of the Hutcheson Street bridge. Council’s Rivers and Drainage Engineering Manager Andy White said the work began at the beginning of May to improve the channel capacity in the river.

His team had been planning this edging work ahead of a larger programme due to start later this year, subject to Council

was high and needed to be brought under control as rabbits damaged the reserve and its vegetation.

In 2021, Council undertook a rabbit control operation using calicivirus, but current counts show numbers are high again.

Pindone is an anti-coagulant poison, commonly used for rabbit control in New Zealand since the 1940s. It is considered relatively safe to both dogs and cats as a large volume would need to be consumed over a number of days to affect them.

Anyone with any concerns their dog has eaten pindone should contact their vet as there is an antidote available. All precautions will be taken to ensure only rabbits eat the bait. Bait stations will be fenced where necessary to prevent interactions with stock, dogs and children, and will only be opened at night. Warning signs will be placed in the two areas.

If a bait station appears to have been interfered with, please contact the Parks and Open Spaces Team at Council; Ph: 03 520 7400.

approval in the Long Term Plan.

“The work involves the removal of sediment and gravels that have gradually accumulated in recent years, resulting in higher water levels,” he said.

“With the sediment removed, the team is finishing the works over the next fortnight by placing rock as an edge protection to prevent future bank erosion.”

A digger works on removing sediment from the Taylor River in front of the ASB Theatre

Dignitaries gather at the dawn blessing from left Peter Meihana (Rangitāne O Wairau Iwi Representative Te Tātoru O Wairau); Hockey Marlborough’s Jodie Lawson (chair) and Andy Rowe; MGC board member Brian Roughan; Mayor Nadine Taylor; MGC acting principal Emily Stenhouse; MBC principal John Kendall; Michelle Lavender (Ngāti Rārua Iwi Representative Te Tātoru O Wairau); Johnny Joseph (Ngāti Tōa Rangatira Iwi Representative Te Tātoru O Wairau); Elaine Wilson (Ngāti Kuia trustee); Tania Alesana (Ngāti Kuia co-chair) and Carol Tipene (Ngāti Kuia trustee).

Marlborough’s new Puna Wai Hockey Stadium on Nelson Street at Marlborough Girls’ College

Marlborough - ‘a duo of monocultures’ one

Blenheim’s Tony Orman has spent four decades in Marlborough. The first as a town and country planner with the Marlborough County Council when he drafted it’s first district plan. He shared with Chris Valli his own insights on the Marlborough District Council’s Long Term Plan submissions which recently closed.

Tony Orman is a regular contributor to the Blenheim Sun Letters to the Editor page. It’s fair to say Tony is not one short of an opinion, when it comes to matters in Marlborough.

Tony believes consultations for the 10-year long term plan, which closed earlier this month, should contain all aspects associated with an eye to the future.

“Frankly I find the draft plan as shallow and lacking in foresight,” he suggests. “I note reference that council encourages the continued growth and development of the district. Unbridled growth is a fallacy.”

Unfortunately in national terms, he believes growth is measured by Gross Domestic Product. He says it is a misconception that GDP should be the chief index to the health of a society - in this case Marlborough’s.

“A clean environment is more important than in the case of GDP’s sole focus of money and sales of colour tvs or whatever product,” he says. “Marlborough’s attribute is quality of life, quality of the environment, and the natural asset of a good climate.”

Tony, a life member of the Marlborough Recreational Fishers Association, says the obsession with economic growth is evident in the ‘current crises’ of the Marlborough Sounds.

“With short-sightedness in the past, mussel farming has been allowed to exceed the carrying capacity of the habitat or environment. Growth rates in mussel farms have fallen. Initially in a year, mussels were of marketable size. Now it is more like two years from reports. Nobody wins. The longer period means less

profit for the mussel farmer. The public’s environment suffers visual pollution with waste under mussel farms contaminating the sea bed.”

Some years ago, Tony met a Marlborough mayor in the MDC offices and on expressing his concerns about the unbridled growth of mussel farming, was told ‘the council could not do anything’.

“Environmentally they are barren, lacking bio-diversity.”

“Go and see your local MP” was the advice. “Frankly it was abdication of responsibility. Similarly forestry was encouraged in the Sounds in the quest for more and more growth. Where was the foresight? The environment was forgotten. That sole focus on growth has resulted in large areas of the Sounds and contributing tributary valleys like the Pelorus going into commercial pine forestry. Heavy loads of silt have accumulated adjacent to their shores.”

Tony found that some fifteen MDC scientific studies have warned of the threat of siltation from runoff during logging.

“I did make enquiries to MDC and a phone call resulted in a very helpful officer answering. Unfortunately I cannot recall his name but he was enlightened.

I suggested to him that logging should be done in strips along the

Marlborough Lines Stadium 2000 May 31 - June 2

contours, twelve months apart to minimise silt-laden runoff. His comment was along the lines of “Couldn’t agree more, but the forestry corporates wouldn’t like it as contour harvesting like that would eat into their profits.

“Has consideration been given to the role the Sounds should play in the region’s future and as an environment for Marlburians? Outdoor recreation and tourism have a strong economic value. The Sounds is an asset.

“Once in a Council plan it was described as a ‘jewel’. Then for some strange reason it was deleted. So does that infer Council decided on more growth of forestry and aquaculture for the Marlborough Sounds? The Ten Year Plan appears to ignore the Sounds desirable future role,” he believes.

Tony says other points in his submission included ‘a lack of thought as to the consequences of unbridled, unplanned growth of population’.

“The sharp reality is more people and more consumers equal more resource demand, force more costly infrastructure demand and make more emissions. More ratepayers’ money is needed for roading and motorways, upgrading of sewers and storm waters and sprawling outwards over fertile soils. The costly infrastructure upgrades lead to rate increases, a most unpopular consequence.”

“Currently the town is spreading north over some of the most fertile soils in the Wairau valley. This is against all the fundamental rules of town and country planning. It is archaic ribbon development. It is an

Orman says a friend looked into subdividing but when confronted with the fees decided not to. “Clearly the exorbiant fees demanded by

appalling reflection on the lack of both planning and foresight,” he says.

He says subdivisions such as Rose Manor require pumping stations for sewage and storm water making the development even more undesirable.

“To the south of Blenheim and on the foothills, the natural gradient is in favour of sewage and storm water flows. And importantly it’s not of the quality soil of adjacent to old Renwick Road. There is much land within Blenheim that can be subdivided.

In some streets, original section sizes of half an acre may have an old, almost derelict home and ample room for subdivision.

A friend, who owned a large

section, on her husband’s death, and in a quality home, looked into subdividing but when confronted with the fees, decided not to. Clearly the exorbitant fees demanded by MDC are a deterrent to inner development.”

From once being a very diverse land production area, he says Marlborough has turned into a duo of monocultures, forestry and vineyards.

“Monocultures are bad, leaving the region economically vulnerable should a market crash occur.

Environmentally they are barren, lacking bio-diversity.

“In both cases, these monocultures demand large quantities of water from the ecosystem, aquifer and rivers and streams.”

Tony

the Council are a deterrent to development.”

Summerset Blenheim homes now available

Summerset retirement villages are designed to make sure you get the best out of your retirement and Summerset Blenheim is no exception.

Situated in the heart of Marlborough, surrounded by vineyards and mountain views, this brand-new village is close to everything Blenheim and the Marlborough Sounds have to offer.

We have a range of brand-new two and three-bedroom homes available now. These single-storey homes are thoughtfully designed, with generous bedrooms, an ensuite, a separate toilet, and an internal access garage. Each home features a bright and spacious open-plan living area with a contemporary kitchen, perfect for entertaining friends and family.*

To see plans and pricing, or to view our stunning show homes, join us at one of our upcoming Open Days or book a private appointment today.

Love the life you choose.

Open Days, 10am - 2pm

Every Thursday in May

Summerset Blenheim

183 Old Renwick Road, Springlands 03 520 6042 | summerset.co.nz/blenheim

Wairau Hospital celebrates Indian culture

By Chris Valli

Healthcare workers at Wairau Hospital enjoyed a Bhartiya Sanskriti Culture of India celebration this month.

As part of International Nurses Day celebrations, the event opened with the Indian national anthem, followed by presentations, and sharing food.

Preparations began early in the morning with staff coming together to prepare traditional Indian meals. Several nurses shared an insight into their lives in India, their journey to nursing, and what it was like moving to New Zealand.

Pawandeep Sandu, Clinical Nurse Specialist Geriatric and Stroke expressed her gratitude to the organisation, management and the team for putting together a wonderful initiative.

“It was heartening to see the management embracing inclusivity of other cultures, making staff from overseas feel a sense of belonging, and wonderful to have dedicated day staff for different departments to join us for the celebration”, she says.

“It was a wonderful way to come together and learn more about Indian culture, language and families. The event gave us the opportunity to welcome new teams and celebrate the diversity

they bring us,” says Stephanie Watson, ADON/Operations Manager.

“A big thanks to Kate Hodson, Simon Langford, Anisha Huntley, Pawandeep Sandhu, Deepthy Ravunny and everybody else who

Rare visitor

Locals were treated to a rare sight last week when a white heron paid a visit to the Taylor River walkway near the High Street bridge.

pulled together to make this day happen.”

Support from the Churchill Private Hospital Trust helped to make the event and International Nurses Day celebrations at Wairau Hospital possible.

The white heron or kotuku is wellloved by the New Zealand people, but it is rarely seen except by those who specifically seek it out. Its sole New Zealand breeding site near Okarito Lagoon in Westland is well-known and well-protected, but elsewhere it is ‘He kotuku rerenga tahi’ or the bird of single flight, implying something seen perhaps once in a lifetime. When seen in close proximity it is a magnificent bird, with its large size and clean white plumage.

Considering laser eye surgery? Book your free assessment with Dr Oliver now.

With the arrival of Southern Eye in Blenheim there’s a new opportunity for locals to access expert eyecare.

Dr Genevieve Oliver is undertaking a specialist clinic on Wednesday June 5th.

A highly experienced ophthalmologist and vitreoretinal surgeon working from our Christchurch facility, Dr Oliver will be offering valuable insight and providing FREE laser eye surgery assessments.

To book an appointment, call Megan at Southern Eye Blenheim on 03 578 8948

31

Healthcare workers at Wairau Hospital celebrated Bhartiya Sanskriti.

Home is a place you grow up wanting to leave, and grow old wanting to get back to.

John Ed Pierce

A passion for design

Established in 2017, Anderson Architecture has earned a reputation for designing homes that are stylish and comfortable, smart, sympathetic to their environment, and perfect for the client.

Based in Blenheim Anderson Architecture is well known in the Blenheim, Nelson and Richmond, Tasman, areas and has a respectable portfolio of projects to their name. Company founder Jason Anderson has become known for his ability to quickly translate concepts into design renderings, saving both time and money for his clients.

Jason developed a passion for design from a very young age and describes working with clients and developers as a ‘true pleasure’.

From the initial design brief, through to concept design, working drawings and construction, Jason will work closely with you all the way, providing what some have described as a ‘very professional and enjoyable experience.’

Jason Anderson

CONTEMPORARY, YET TIMELESS: a recent Anderson Architecture design.

Your Place Your Place

Building - Renovating - Design - Garden

Creative home renovation tips

Home renovation can be a popular hobby for homeowners, or those who use our many skilled businesses in the region.

Remodelling can help you feel more comfortable and increase the appeal and value of a home.

Some ideas for those on a budget:

• Update any room with a fresh cost of paint.

A tried and true way to transform the ambience in your house without spending a fortune.

• Refinish kitchen or bathroom cabinetry.

Popular areas for a change or modernisation.

Get a quote from experienced businesses or if you’re handy you could sand down the cabinets and apply a new finish yourself.

• Rearrange furniture

While furniture can contribute a lot to the overall feel of a room or home, it can be achieved in different ways. Yes buy a new piece if you want a new look or utilise

what you have by rearranging.

A room can feel completely different when moved to different spots. Add a plant or two. Or a divider stand.

Small tricks like these can bring a whole new feel to your space.

• Install new lighting Whether it’s new shades or a lamp, this can really make a difference.

Create a mood, usually relatively inexpensive. Colour is an option to change the accent of a room to warm or cool. New blinds, louvres, shades can be just the thing also. Contact local businesses to get ideas and prices, they’ll be only too pleased to help.

Renovating can be a challenge but so rewarding with a feel of accomplishment.

Why Choose Contour

Local Charm, Global Excellence

Proudly rooted in Marlborough, we bring world-class standards to your doorstep.

Customised Solutions

We understand that every space is unique. With a wide range of colors, finishes, and designs to choose from, personalise your louvres to reflect your unique taste.

End-to-End Service

From consultation to installation, we handle every aspect of the process.

Locally Manufactured

Proudly manufactured in the top of the south, ensuring high quality and supporting the local economy

Enhanced Outdoor Living

Create an outdoor sanctuary with our durable and weatherresistant louvres, offering the perfect balance of shade and sunlight for your garden oasis.

Trusted by Marlborough

Join countless satisfied customers who choose Contour Blenheim for their louvre needs.

Book your free consultation today! Our expert team is standing by to guide you through the process and help you find the perfect louvre solution for your home or garden.

Life membership for three quilters

Marlborough Quilters has recognized and awarded three of its members with Life Membership at their AGM held recently.

Sharyn Simpson, Barbara Paton and Clare Vallance were presented with the awards by Yvonne Roberts QSM, also a Life Member.

All three recipients have been long standing members, being involved with committee work and organizing club events such as

weekend retreats and exhibitions. All have taught patchwork and quilting and been an inspiration to other quilters.

Sharyn has taught quilting to women in Thailand and is known for her generosity in giving away quilts especially for heart babies at Starship hospital. Barbara, sometimes called the purple quilter, loves to get alongside other members on our Saturday sewing days to encourage the use

of new techniques.

Meanwhile, Clare was an original member of Marlborough Quilters meaning she has 40 years of service to the club. She is known for her creativity, exploration of new techniques and designs and sharing her knowledge.

Marlborough Quilters is looking forward to having them all join in their 40th Anniversary celebration later this year.

‘There’s

just no excuse’

It’s time to get our heads around it.

New Zealanders continue to get behind the wheel after drinking, with alcohol being a major factor contributing to deaths and serious injuries crashes in Marlborough.

According to the Police and NZTA, between 2014 and 2023, alcohol contributed to at least 13 per cent of road deaths and serious injuries in Marlborough. This is higher than Nelson Bays and the West Coast.

In response, Police, New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) and the Marlborough District Council are working together throughout June to collectively target people in Marlborough who continue to think it’s ok to drink and drive. This is part of a wider campaign targeting Canterbury, Tasman and Greater Wellington.

Council’s Road Safety Action Plan Group Chair Councillor Jonathan Rosene says people would be reminded of the consequences through education and advertising, backed up on the ground by Police

vehicle checks, enforcement and driver education.

“As a community we must not tolerate drink driving. Together we need to shift the attitudes and behaviours of our ‘drink drivers’ so they see themselves the same as ‘drunk drivers’,” says Councillor Rosene. “For a long time there has been plenty of information available on how to arrange a safer ride home. There’s just no excuse.

This June, Council is joining forces with road safety partners to target people who continue to drink and drive and put us all at risk.”

Drink driving has a significant impact not only on the driver themselves, but on passengers and people using the road around them.

Around 40 per cent of people injured in crashes involving alcohol were not the driver.

“Find out more about how to keep yourself and others safe, because there’s more to lose than your licence,” Councillor Rosene says.

For more information go to: www.nzta.govt.nz/drinking-dontdrive

Live, Love Shop Local

All in for arts

A successful concert was held on Sunday organised by the Marlborough Performing Arts Competitions music committee. It showcased students playing violin, piano, cornet and singing. A high calibre of guest performers including Samuel Lee, Tristan Gregory-Hunt, Fred Wiseman and Jessie Sawers were there to encourage students in their chosen fields of music and speak about how they achieved their musical goals.

Members of the committee spoke about the competitions which are being held late September and encouraged new students to enter. Any teachers or parents who wish to enter their students in this event or have any questions about the syllabus please contact Jenny Kemp on 021 284 8886.

Marlborough District Councillor Jonathan Rosene (left) with Blenheim Police’s Sergeant Josh Clauson discuss the campaign to target people in Marlborough who drink and drive.

LIFE MEMBERSHIP: Sharyn Simpson, Yvonne Roberts, Barbara Paton, Clare Vallance.

Linda Holdaway, Jessie Sawers, Kathryn Molony and Jenny Kemp at the Sunday concert.

CALLING ALL PARENTS! Tutoring in Science & Maths

Are your college students struggling with Biology, Chemistry, Maths at the moment?

REAP Marlborough was established in 1979 and from then has striven to become the Marlborough community’s ‘go-to hub’ for courses and support for the education of our rural (and often very isolated) residents and also those who reside in and nearer to Blenheim, Renwick, and Picton, our larger communities.

The objective has been to identify gaps in the provision of education for rural communities for all ages and develop strategies to fill the gaps either through REAP-facilitated programmes or in collaboration with other providers.

REAP Marlborough supports Early Childhood Education, schools, tertiary and Adult Community Education, as well as transitions between these levels.

The focus is on gaps in opportunities for education resulting from geographical isolation and isolation relating to age, disability, language, or other factors.

REAP Marlborough promotes community development, integrating education and the provision of information with activities in other sectors including health, social

Nelson College REAP Marlborough

Today’s young men are very different from 167 years ago.

They’re diverse and aspire to a wide range of careers and community involvement at and beyond college.

At Nelson College we’re here to support you and your son.

To create a safe, challenging and fun environment that will see him succeed as himself in today’s and tomorrow’s world.

We believe that college should be an exciting stage of life for young men. It’s a time for them to try new things, build lifelong friendships, and

services, community organisations and local government.

REAP Marlborough can act as the independent initiator and/or facilitator of community change but more commonly works collaboratively with other agencies.

REACH for SUCCESS

At Rapaura School we REACH from within and to the wider community as we strive for SUCCESS

Me ka tuohu koe

(If you bow/bend your head)

Me he maunga teitei

(Let it be to a lofty mountain)

NCEA results show we, in Marlborough, are near the bottom of the country for performance!

I taught science and maths at two very good schools and have tutored several students to success in science and maths. Tutoring can make a significant difference to learning outcomes.

succeed academically to prepare for life beyond school.

As a specialist in boys’ education, we provide the structure, opportunities and pastoral care to see your son succeed.

We care for our rangatahi’s mental and physical wellbeing, providing a safe space for young men of all orientations, beliefs and interests.

We want to see your son belong and excel at Nelson College.

We look forward to working together to find your son’s passion and to start his legacy at Nelson College.

Queen Charlotte College

In collaboration with Kāinga Ora, the Building Academy aims to provide students with hands-on learning opportunities in building houses.

Kāinga Ora funds the houses built by students in the Cuddons shed, which are then used to supply social housing, thus contributing to the community.

The mandate of the Academy is to advance the skill levels and understanding of students attending and, when possible, to carry out meaningful research on issues relating to the aquaculture industry. The Academy offers Aquaculture courses at Year 11, 12 and 13. Working closely with MFA, NZ King Salmon, Schwass Family and Sanford.

Phone 03 578 7848 to find out more about our upcoming ‘Barista Bean to Cup’ course.

“your place to shop”

Redwoodtown Village & Hub

GMW Jewellery

The Redwoodtown Hub is a busy little enclave off Cleghorn Street, providing a home to several ‘boutique-style’ businesses and services.

GWM Jewellery, a stylish jewellery shop in the heart of the hub, offers handcrafted jewellery and owner and manufacturing jeweller Gina Botham says they will have been there six years in September.

Lucky Lotto

Do you feel lucky? Well you should when purchasing a ticket at the Redwood Lotto shop considering there has been over $32 million worth of prizes won there.

Owners Peter and Claire Matthews have enjoyed a lucky streak since taking over the business in 1997, in fact Redwood Lotto is the luckiest Lotto shop in Marlborough.

“We have had 13 First Division winners purchase their tickets here,” Peter smiles. The shop, you could say, is a long standing business in Redwoodtown, having operated there since 1987.

Today it continues to sell a range of magazines and cards as well as having the Lotto franchise, and Peter enjoys the weekly visits

“It felt to me like a better option than town, where there are parking issues. My clients like browsing and consulting. There’s less foot traffic, but it’s a busy location,” she says.

Originally a small crew consisting of Gina and Amelia Pask, the team has grown to include Gina’s husband Nigel who operates the Machine Engraving side of the business,

Redwood Lotto

owner Peter Matthews has seen millions of dollars in Lotto prize money won in his shop.

from his regular customers.

“We have people who have shopped here for years and will come in every week for their Lotto tickets,” he says.

Gary Ching Locksmiths – Redwoodtown Hub

The name that says locksmithing in Marlborough for the past 45 years is still going strong – now in Redwoodtown. A great new location and the same outstanding personal service.

After over 20 years in their High Street location, Gary Ching Locksmiths relocated to the Redwoodtown Hub in July last year.

Co-owner Tony Sampson says the hub is a lively part of Blenheim with lots of people and activity.

“With our move to larger premises at 72 Cleghorn Street we are now able to better showcase a wider range of hardware and security products. We have more storage for a wider range of locks and accessories, and more room to work on customer’s vehicles.

“We also now have our own dedicated customer carpark at the rear of the building,

as well as being easily accessed from the many surrounding parking areas.

“We still cut all types of keys, and have a huge range of specialist key blanks and cutting equipment to deliver your key requirements.”

Tony says the team are busy keeping up to date with the very latest developments from international security hardware suppliers and manufacturers, and recent trends in automotive and transponder keys. They also specialise in the latest intruder alarms, CCTV systems, mechanical, keyless and digital access locks for residential as well as commercial premises.

Whether you’re locked in, locked out or just want to lock it up - call the team at Ching Locksmiths today on 578 4102 or email Shop@chinglocks.co.nz. An after hours callout service is available by arrangement.

Apprentice Manufacturing Jeweller Aiden Smith, Retail Assistants Vernette Sargeant and Maya Pol, Marketing Co-ordinator and Retail Assistant Laura Main, and canines Della and Duke. Della has been coming in to the shop since she was 10 weeks old, and Duke, a more recent addition to the team loves the attention he gets when visits the store.

Duke - an extra member some days in-store at GMW!

(6)

Lunge (6)

(8)

Steady (6)

24. Appear (4)

each only once?

No words beginning with a capital are allowed. There’s at least one six-letter word.

(8)

Across: 7. Forecast, 9. Abloom, 10. Wilt, 11. Irrational, 12. Weapon, 14. Scenario, 15. Tiered, 16. Malice, 19. Carefree, 21. Punish, 23. Assessment, 24. Scab, 25. Circle, 26. Motherly. Down: 1. Docile, 2. Sect, 3. Radiance, 4. Battle, 5. Allocation, 6. Volatile, 8. Thrust, 13. Preference, 15. Transmit, 17. Amputate, 18. Redeem, 20. Rasher, 22. Stable, 24. Seem.

WordBuilder

Crossword ail, air, alb, aril, bail,

Graeme Dingle Foundation

Marlborough Drop for Youth fundraiser, Skydive Abel Tasman.

McKenzie Haronga - with Kandoo Kiwi – gearing up to “Just Do It!”. Tāne Anderson and Filimoe’ulie Fotu-Moala prepare to take off.

The MGC Manutaki were elated after their jump. (Manu means bird. Taki means to entice, to lead, to bring along. The term manutaki is used as the general term for leadership)

Simon Olliver and Mark Thompson are all smiles as they prepare to ‘Drop for Youth’.

Raising money for the youth of Marlborough is a serious business for “Team Harcourts”

The skies over Motueka were filled with Flying Marlburians on Saturday.

The MBC Leos Team (with teacher, Whaea Jan (centre), were pumped to take part.

The Flying Kiwis – “Team Kiwi Can” at Drop for Youth.

5 minutes with...

Max anderson-sweeny

Marlborough Youth Trust Youth Worker

 Are you a dog or cat person?

Definitely a cat person they are so sassy and I have a grumpy old cat that loves me.

 My friends would say I am…

Funny, a little crazy and a little unhinged. I would like to think they say

I’m kind and loving and try hard to not be a dick.

 The best advice I ever received was?

Be the adult you needed when you were young- be open to discussion and if you have nothing nice to say, say nothing at all.

 What would you buy if money was no object?

I would buy a house to help support rangatahi who needed support in housing and need people who care around them.

 Local coffee haunt?

Karaka they are epic and know what my order is, this makes me feel special. They are great humans.

 Favourite takeaway? Chinese.

 The shop you can’t walk past is...? Kmart, I love me a deal.

 What’s the most thoughtful gift you’ve ever received?

I’m not a gift person. Hugs mean heaps to me. However I have received some special art work from my youth that hold special places in my heart and carry some beautiful memories.

 Where is your happy holiday place?

Honestly if I have all my kids around me my heart is happy. Being around water helps to heal my heart when I need some pure positive vibes beach fun.

 Favourite programme or series currently watching?

S.W.A.T solving crime, love it.

 What’s one thing on your bucket list?

I want to go to The Bahamas to where there is swimming pigs, what an experience to swim with pigs in beautiful water.

gardening this week

Getting started: By Wally Richards

If you’re a gardener like me we are chaffing at the bit to get started for the new season.

Now with only 4 weeks to the shortest day, those that are keen can make some early sowings and plantings.

Planting seedlings 2-3 months ago was a bad time to do so as the day light hours were reducing and they would sit there and sulk with little if any growth.

Then after the shortest day those seedling would respond but as they have had a check of no growth they will feel that their lives have been threatened and they will bolt going to seed to reproduce themselves.

Any planting of seedlings between now and the shortest day can be done but to ensure that they are encouraged to grow naturally we will give them some liquid sunshine mixed with Magic Botanic Liquid (MBL).

We could force them to grow like commercial growers do by applying nitrogen rich fertilisers but in doing so we are risking disease and pest attacks on our forced growth plants which makes them weak and means more work trying to control Natures Cleaners and vegetables lacking in nutrition.

So then you might as well forget growing healthy food and buy the commercially grown stuff.

The daylight hours will start to extend but the soil temperatures are cold so that does not help with establishment.

Here is what to do: make a trench about a spade depth to plant your vegetable seedlings in.

Next mow the lawn and collect the clippings which you are going to put in the trench and trample them down to compact them.

Over the clippings sprinkle Wallys Calcium & Health and some BioPhos and Ocean Solids.

Any animal manures you have throw that in as well or can use sheep manure pellets and blood & bone.

Then replace the soil previously removed. If in lumps break them up with a garden hoe before returning to the trench.

Now plant your brassicas, silver beet and any other hardy vegetable plants you like to grow.

Once planted dissolve a tablespoon of molasses into a couple of litres of hot water and add about 40ml of MBL.

When cold, water the mixture over the foliage and into the soil to give each plant a drink. This can be repeated once or twice a week.

It is to stimulate growth as if the day light hours were longer.

You can also use the grass clippings buried to warm the soil to germinate seeds such as broad beans.

Always soak larger seeds in MBL for a little while before planting or spray them

with it after sowing and before covering. It will help seed up germination.

Another method is to sow the seeds and cover the area with black plastic film such as the black plastic rubbish bags held in place with lengths of wood or rocks.

Lift every day or two to see if germination has started.

If you have a heat pad for germinating seeds then use that to get tomato plants, cucumbers, capsicums etc germinated, and then pot up and protect them in a sunny place as they grow on.

If you have a glasshouse or similar perfect for growing on and then potting up to larger containers till ready to plant out.

I have had a couple of readers tell me that last season when their garlic plants started to get the dreaded garlic rust they used the molasses and MBL (liquid sunshine) as a soil drench over the plants a few times and they were able to harvest reasonable sized bulbs; so that’s worth bearing in mind.

Another reader asked about transplanting roses this time of the year?

My reply was; Roses are dormant or going into dormancy at this time and the ideal time to lift and transplant.

The key is to keep the roots moist and don’t let them dry out. Wet straw or hay is all that is needed to do that. Remember as soon as you lift them cover the roots.

Also in location they can be heeled into a garden in bunches or individually till ready to place in permanent spots.

Realty Check Radio is back operating again and so are my gardening programs with Rodney Hide.

The recent recorded program is available on the Internet at : https:// realitycheck.radio/replay/gardening-with-wally-haircuts-bananas-strawberries-and-being-a-special-delivery-from-the-postie/

We were doing a bit about old time days and a reader asked me what vegetable gardening was like 50 plus years ago.

Well that’s history now and a lot different to how we do things today.

At this time of the year a gardener would turn over the area for growing vegetables, digging and turning to the

depth of two spades.

There were no gyms like today so they needed the exercise. The clods would be left as they came off the spade in lumps. Garden Lime in a good sprinkling like a thin layer of snow would be tossed over the clods and left for winter and frosts to do their job.

In the spring the clods would easily break up with the rake to a fine tilth. With a hoe, straight mounds would be formed about 12cm tall and 30 - 40cm apart into which would be planted seeds or seedlings.

Blood & Bone would be incorporated into the mounds -that was real blood and bone not the stuff available today - and any manures available. Everyone had chickens back then so a lot of chicken manure would be incorporated. The trench between the rows would be the walkway and in summer when soil became dry it was the trenches that would be flooded to water the vegetables on either side.

A hoe would be used along the trenches to cut out the young weeds as they grew which would not only mean more food for the vegetables growing, but the hoe action would cut some of the vegetable plants roots on the side of the mounds causing them to re-root and within a couple of days or so you would see that the vegetables had grown a bit quicker and bigger from the hoeing. The vegetables harvested were the supreme, ultimate of healthy nutrition and we were so healthy and fit back then. There were very few over weight people and as kids we would either run everywhere or bike.

I even remember when about 9 years old me and about three other friends planned to pack our bags and bike to Auckland from Palmerston North. But our parents put the kibosh on that adventure.

Just as well as we would have only got to Bulls or somewhere when night set in and then It would be a problem of no warm bed to sleep in.

Healthy and fearless, that was a real childhood to have lived. Readers of an age I am sure will agree, we had the best of the times but did not realise it till now.

Comedy?

Agree with last weeks texter and yes Billy T was a standout from way back. There are comedians and then there are real comedians. However we do all have different senses of humour!

White Island burps!

Now one wonders what panic mode DOC will be in trying to prosecute someone, anyone, anything. Can they try to summons God for any ash that falls as a result of wind change on shore! Hilarious and ridiculous but DOC! How dare they Greta!

Gumboot Friday

So pleased that Gumboot Friday is finally getting the support it deserves from this Govt. Labour seemed content to throw money at a broken system whilst ignoring this very effective and much needed solution. I’m looking forward to seeing more commonsense policy and governance from this coalition.

Re: Massive profits

I couldn’t agree more with last week’s texter. Massive profits, indeed! If one of the supermarkets dropped their prices they would double their business overnight. But neither of the ‘big two’ companies will pull such a stunt. Mainly because of the ‘C’ word: Collusion. You can’t tell me there’s not some level of cooperation between them so that they both preserve their margins. They appear competitive, but only up to a point.

Thank you

Thank you to the ladies who came to my aid when I fell in the Market Street Cafe last Thursday. Luckily I did not hurt myself.

TV I gave up watching broadcast TV just before lockdown March 2020. The News was the only thing I was watching anyway, but I haven’t missed it one bit, as biased and politically manipulated was it was. My mental health has improved as a result. I keep abreast of what’s happening via Newstalk. So I’m not surprised these programmes are being axed. It’s hard to sell advertising on something that isn’t getting eyeballs.

Spot on

The points made in Chris Davies’ letter to The Sun...’Ever Hopeful, 22May’, are spot on.

In short, the proposed 14.5% (GST inclusive) rates rise has not been fully & professionally researched. And obviously, logical cost cutting proposals have not been researched either. Basically, a totally new and professional review needs to be made of Marlborough District’s future expenditure proposals before any final increase (or decrease?) is decided.

Appalled

The Marlborough Girls’ College pupils and Boys’ College pupil that were having MacDonald’s on Thursday the 23rd just before 2pm, the foul language from one girl and boy in particular trying to sound cool because they were with a group, was disgusting. You are representing your College in uniform. Both kids were on the younger end. I was quite appalled.

All the best

I wish the Fair Go team all the best, it’s SO sad it ended. Of all the programs that should be taken off TV is The Chase, plus the 7 Days both these are so boring.

Brown bags

Shame on you, Woolworths Supermarkets. Your new brown paper bags are lightweight, rip easily and inferior to the previous brown paper bags. On top of that you are now charging 39c (40c).

Thanks Yobo’s

Van, 7pm, 25th May, Rai Valley; wrecking the auto opening mechanism at the new toilets. Whilst I did not get photo, name, address, phone & e mail addresses of 5 offenders for the police, this will surely not be too difficult. Now to extract the over $1200 to repair the fourth door mechanism. Did I mention drinking in the two vans of kiddie vandals -oops! Charge these muggles!!

Sad world

This is what our country has come to and parenting. A 13 year old to be charged for allegedly killing a 16 year old at the Dunedin bus hub.

Once upon a time a child of this age would be at home doing his homework not on the street with a knife.

Time to reduce?

Now that building consents are drying up and people are feeling the squeeze of the economic down turn it would be a good time for Marlborough council to reduce its public servants and other associated professionals. By order of we, the people.

Re tailgaters in NZ

You’re the problem especially if you’re one of the many that can suddenly do the speed limit as soon as you get to a passing lane.

Language

Okay, I’m no prude, but I can’t help but notice how the term ‘sh*t’ has crept into everyday language and seems commonly acceptable, especially on radio. Gosh, are we down to this level now? And if I hadn’t put in the * for ‘sh*t’, would it have been printed? Maybe we don’t like reading what comes out our mouths.

Rabbit control

I read the rabbits are to be “controlled” at the Taylor River. I hope the “control” is humane and would welcome Animal Protection and rights groups take on this.

Re: Tailgater

I apologise to anyone I come too close to if you pull out in front of me and don’t make any effort to get up to speed while I’m driving 80/100km. I also apologise that I use cruise control set at the speed limit, and your foot can’t keep your speed constant..... therefore I might end up closer while trying to adjust to your fluctuations of speed!

Park roses

Re the rose thief of Pollard Park, I hope you are caught and shamed. The work that is put into making our park so lovely, doesn’t deserved to be spoilt by you. Buy your own.

Talk of the week

Shout out

Hi! Just a ‘shout out’ to Tove! Sun paper 22nd May, what an inspiration to us all! And happy birthday! Love her story xx

Good people

THANK YOU to the lovely young lady who paid for my groceries at the Seymour St, Woolworths on Thursday evening 23 May. I had left my wallet at home, by the time I had returned the young lady had paid for my groceries. I found her in the supermarket and offered to repay the money, which she refused to accept. There are still good young people in this world. Willie.

Sad to see

The axing of various TV programmers doesn’t worry us. We haven’t had TV for seven years and don’t miss it. Having said that, Fair Go was the only programme worth watching. Sad to see it go.

Grateful

My grateful thanks to the young man, Digby, from Hunting & Fishing who assisted me with an over weight bag of newspapers & more at the Recycling Centre. A credit to the firm.

We welcome your texts on 027 242 5266.

Limit to 70 words please. We reserve the right to publish at our discretion. Please note the opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Sun management.

Blenheim Judo Club impresses

By Chris Valli

Tom Etheridge from the Blenheim Judo Club won three gold medals in the junior section at the Canterbury Open Judo Championships held on May 18 and 19. Club founder and Nidan Second Dan Black belt instructor David Foley says members of the Blenheim Club all did the club proud it was a great weekend. He says he was impressed with all his students. David says Tom, a fourth kyu/grade, had some ‘really good fights’ on the Sunday meet. Meanwhile, David’s grandson Blake Foley in his first competition came away with two bronze medals. Andras Kovacs, a fourth kyu/grade, picked up two bronze and one gold medal and competed well over the weekend with some good fights.

Fellow orange belt Hiko Zumisawa,, fought well and gained invaluable experience albeit, losing all his fights. Judo was developed by Professor Jigoro Kano, a Japanese educator, initially as a system of moral and physical development. The first Judo “club” (the Kodokan)

Blake Foley with his two bronze medals at the Canterbury Open Judo Championships held recently.

was established by Professor Kano in 1882. The first judo club in New Zealand was in Nelson in 1868.

Out O f ZO ne vacancies

The Board of Trustees advises that 20 out of zone vacancies are available at Rapaura School for the remainder of the 2024 academic school year. The vacancies are across the following year groups: New Entrant - 7, Year 2 - 3, Year 3 - 3, Year 4 - 3, Year 7 - 4.

The deadline for receipt of applications for out of zone places is Wednesday 5 June 2024 at 3pm. The ballot will be held on Friday 7 June 2024. For queries or enrolment details email office@rapaura.school.nz or phone 03 5705 752.

An established support group meeting in Blenheim for men and their families living with a prostate cancer diagnosis and

An established support group meeting in Blenheim for men and their families

and

Spouses, partners and family members

Next MeetiNg:

Meetings: Time: Venue: First Tuesday of each month* 7.15pm Cancer Society Blenheim House 76A Maxwell Road, Blenheim

Date: Tuesday 4th June, at 7.15pm.

Venue: Cancer Society Blenheim House 76A Maxwell Road, Blenheim

For more information please contact: Support Group Coordinator Murray Eyles

For more information please contact: Support Group Coordinator Murray Eyles M: 027 608 5667

M: 027 608 5667

E: marlborough@prostate.org.nz

W: www.prostate.org.nz/support-meetings

e: marlborough@prostate.org.nz

W: www.prostate.org.nz/support-meetings

On 29 May 2024, the Marlborough District Council gives public notice that it has made its decision on the provisions of Variation 3: Meretoto/ Ship Cove Heritage Resource and the matters raised in submissions. As of this date the Proposed Marlborough Environment Plan is amended in accordance with this decision.

The decision is available to download from the Marlborough District Council’s website www.marlborough.govt.nz.

Copies of the decision can also be viewed at:

• Marlborough District Council offices – Blenheim and Picton

• Libraries – Blenheim and Picton

If you have further questions, please address these to variations@marlborough.govt.nz or phone: Karen Bloor on 03 520 7400.

Notice of the decision has been served on all persons who made submissions or further submissions.

Any person who made a submission and/or further submission may appeal the Council’s decision to the Environment Court. Further details of the appeal process are available on the Council website. Any appeal to the Environment Court must be in the prescribed form (with filing fee) and lodged with the Environment Court (PO Box 2060, Christchurch) within 30 working days of service of the notice of decision. The closing date for appeals is Friday 12 July 2024.

Dated at Blenheim at 8:00 am on the 29 May 2024

MARK WHEELER CHIEF EXECUTIVE

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 8.30am6pm. Saturday 9m - 5pm. Sunday 10am - 4pm. We will be closed on the following days: Kings Birthday 3 June, Matariki 28

June

Community Care Pharmacy: Within the Blenheim Warehouse, open 7 days 9am8pm. Only closed Christmas Day. Lifeline Marlborough: 0800 543354, 24hr helpline.

Women’s Refuge and Sexual Violence Support Centre Marlborough: Crisis line number phone 0800 refuge or 03 5779939.

Victim Support: 0800 VICTIM (0800 842 846)

Alcoholics Anonymous: 0800 AA WORKS - 0800 229 6757.

Citizens Advice Bureau: Free, friendly, confidential advice. Mon - Fri 9.30am4pm. Phone 578 4272.

Wairau Hospital: Hospital Visiting Hours: Daily 2.30pm - 8pm, children under 12 may visit parents only.

Maternity Ward: 10am-noon, 4pm-7pm. Children's Ward: Daily 10am-8pm. Visiting at all times is subject to the discretion of the nurse in charge of the ward.

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

HOLLIS: Peter Lytton. Passed away peacefully at Hospice Marlborough, 25 May 2024, in his 89th year. Dearly loved husband of the late Cynthia. Much loved father and father-in-law of Susan Hollis and Peter Griffin, Wendy and Paul Swinburn, Carol and Neville Hawes, Robyn Hollis and Scott McBride, Donna and Rob Seiga. Dearly loved grandad of Jessica, Liam, Jared, Jye, Toby, Jacob, Anna, Lydia, Andrew, Jason, William and Danielle and his 12 great grandchildren. A loved brother of Gary, the late Noel and the late Murray. The family would like to thank the wonderful care provided by Springlands Lifestyle Village, Wairau Hospital and Hospice Marlborough. In lieu of flowers, donations to Hospice Marlborough would be appreciated or can be made at the service. Messages to 5 Kilgour Road, Greymouth 7805 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz. A funeral service to celebrate the life of Peter will be held at St Christopher’s Anglican Church, Redwoodtown, Blenheim on Wednesday 29 May at 1pm, followed by interment at Fairhall Cemetery. For those who cannot attend, the service will be livestreamed on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services website.

Death notices

NICHOLAS: James William (Jim). On 20 May 2024, peacefully at Ashwood Park Retirement Village, aged 91 years. Dearly loved husband of the late Alison and the late Noeline. Loved father and father-in-law of Brian and Tina (Australia), Kevin and Geraldine (Australia), Grant and Tanya (Wellington), Matt Willis, and Donna-Mae Gill. A loved grandfather and great grandfather. Messages to c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz Our sincere thanks to the caring staff at Ashwood Park. In lieu of flowers, donations to Alzheimer’s Marlborough would be gratefully accepted or can be made at the service. A celebration of Jim’s life was held at the Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, Blenheim on Monday 27 May. The service was recorded and can be viewed on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services website.

WALL, Jacqueline Jessie (Jackie): On Monday May 27, 2024, peacefully at Ashwood Park Retirement Village. In her 86th year. Dearly loved Mum of Rob and Debbie, Vicki and Craig. Messages may be sent to the Wall Family, P O Box 1, Waikawa 7251. A private cremation has been held and a farewell for Jackie will be held at a later date.

T: 03 578 4719

E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz

W: www.sowmans.co.nz

JAY: Mark. Passed away peacefully on 21 May 2024. Mark will be forever remembered for his humour and a pint in his hand. He will be leaving behind his sons Aaron, Carl and Michael, daughters-in-law (whom he has a spell over!) plus six grandchildren, a large extended family base here in NZ and in the UK, including his beloved sister and brothers Paul, Carol, Trevor, Diana, Sally, and Paddy. A private cremation has been held. Messages to PO Box 9, Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz

Graeme & Anne Daines

Married 1st June 1974

Congratulations on 50 wonderful years! With love from all of your family

MILNE, David Andrew: Passed away suddenly on Tuesday May 21, 2024. Aged 63 years. Beloved husband of Jane and father to Eric. Dave was a wonderful son, brother, uncle and great uncle to all his family. The family would like to thank the Marlborough District Council for the amazing support, especially his work mates, at this difficult time. We would especially like to acknowledge Sheryl and Blue, Paul and extended family for their support. We would also like to acknowledge Dave’s mates and fishing buddies in the North Island who will be one man down on their next trip. In accordance with David’s wishes, a private cremation has taken place.

T: 03 578 4719

E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz

W: www.sowmans.co.nz

THOMSON: Noeleen Ann. On 23 May 2024, peacefully at Maxwell Care Rest Home, in her 81st year. Dearly loved wife of Ernie and a much-loved mother and mother-in-law of Paul and Samantha (England). Adored Kiwi Grandma of Ava. Loved sister of John Gilkison and a loved Aunty of her nieces and nephews. Messages to 2/27 Hutcheson Street, Blenheim 7201 or www. cloudybayfunerals.co.nz In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Marlborough Hospice (Acc. No. 03 1369 036520700 Ref: Thomson) would be gratefully appreciated. In accordance with Noeleen’s wishes, a private cremation will take place.

Cloudy Bay Funerals

SMART, David Roger: Passed away on Friday May 24, 2024 at Wairau Hospital, due to a stroke. Aged 57 years. Dearly loved son of Pauline and the late Roger, loved brother and brother-in-law of Philip and Anita, Christopher and Lu, Andrew and Sophie, and Joanne and Mark Noble. Loved uncle of his nieces and nephews, Vaughan Smart, Lachy, Ethan and Azaria Noble, Deryn, Eira, Flynn and Struan Smart, Sebastian and Cameron Smart. Messages may be sent to Pauline Smart, 18 Avening Close, Blenheim 7201 or davidsmartpassing@outlook. com In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Marlborough Stroke Club would be appreciated and may be made online to a/c 030599-0265717-01 Ref. SMART. A service to celebrate David’s life will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 59 Maxwell Road, at 11.00am on Thursday May 30, followed by private interment at Kaituna Cemetery. 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

T: 03 578 4719

E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz

W: www.sowmans.co.nz

WARBURTON: Faye Lorraine. Passed away peacefully at Maxwell Heritage Lifecare on the 17th of May 2024. Eldest daughter of Doreen and Walter Warburton (deceased). Much loved mother, mother-in-law, and grandmother of Nick and Alissa, Rebekha, Aleksander, and Michael. Cherished sister and sister-in-law of Dawn and Trevor, Gael and Allan, Lynda and Kevin, Shona and Neville, Robin, Janis, Murray and Gloria. Loved Aunty of her nieces and nephews. Messages to c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz Faye’s funeral service was held at St. Christopher’s Church, Redwoodtown on Friday 24th of May. Rest In Peace Faye

Death Notices

2024 Sun The Sun The

WILSON, Charlie George Born April 22, 2024 peacefully sleeping.

CULVERWELL, Leonard Charles (Len), April 23, 2024

ACKROYD, Florence Marjory (née McIntosh), April 26, 2024

ELVY, Stanley Morriss (Stan) April 27, 2024

LANCASTER, Colin Stewart (Stu) May 7, 2024.

POWELL, Richard Claude (Dick) May 10, 2024

BARRATT, Rachel Pollock (née Maddock), May 12, 2024

MILNE, David Andrew May 21, 2024

TITTLETON, Gary Walter (Gazza) 1946 – 2024

SMART, David Roger May 24, 2024

WALL, Jacqueline Jessie (Jackie) May 27, 2024

MORAN, Marion Catherine. 13 March 1933 - 28 May 2018. Dearest Mother, Mum, Madiera. We Love You Always, Every Day. Beloved wife of “Johnny” John Charles Moran 20 July 1931 - 3 December 1964. William and Family. In Memoriam

SAUL, Colin George Passed away May 24, 1997

SAUL, Ruby Hazel Passed away June 3, 1989

Precious memories we hold so near for Parents/Grandparents we loved so dear. Forever remembered by Lynnette, Craig and Sharlene.

Cloudy Bay Funerals

Cloudy Bay Funerals

Cloudy Bay Funerals

TITTLETON, Gary Walter (Gazza): 1946 - 2024. RIP.

Leon joins Crusaders Hall of Fame

By Chris Valli

Marlborough’s Leon MacDonald

was one of three inductees added to the Crusaders Rugby Hall of Fame last Friday at Te Pae, the Christchurch Convention Centre.

The Crusaders launched their hall of fame last year, an annual recognition of players and coaches who made significant contributions to the franchise.

MacDonald, inductee number five, joined Norm Maxwell and Reuben Thorne along with 2023 inductees Justin Marshall, Todd Blackadder and Wayne Smith.

Former All Black assistant coach Wayne Smith, the man who gave Leon MacDonald his opportunity at the Crusaders rates the Marlborough man as ‘one of the toughest, bravest and best players he has ever coached’ saying he had huge mana within New Zealand rugby circles.

MacDonald played under three different All Black coaching regimes, led by Wayne Smith, John Mitchell and Graham Henry. It was Smith, on the advice of the Marlborough captain (and current Crusaders coach) Rob Penney, who came up and watched MacDonald play for Marlborough in a match against East Coast. Smith picked him as a guest player in a pre-season Canterbury tour to Argentina in 1996, the year before he took over the Crusaders.

Known as Rangi to his mates, MacDonald (Crusader number 37), played from 1997 – 2009. He says it was a massive honour to be ‘recognised amongst your peers, it means a lot to me’.

“But I do it with a bit of discomfort because it’s not really what we’re about, singling us out as individuals. Our strength was always how connected we were as a team,” he says.

“To walk back into the room and

see the faces and to see the impact they’ve all had on your life and so many of them are still here doing stuff now. There are so many unrecognised heroes around the game.”

MacDonald made his provincial debut for Marlborough against Buller in 1994. He played 122 matches for the Crusaders and seven for the Chiefs in Super 14.

He played 56 tests for the All Blacks and played as a first five eighth, centre and fullback and made his All Blacks debut versus Scotland in 2000 and scored a total of 141 test points (14 tries, 25 conversions, 7 penalties).

He has also appeared for New Zealand Maori, playing three games and scoring 10 points, including the winning try against the British and Irish Lions in 2005 in Hamilton. McDonald was announced as an assistant All Blacks coach in 2023 (attack coach) along with Jason Ryan, Jason Holland and Scott Hansen.

Marlborough’s Leon MacDonald was one of three inductees added to the Crusaders Rugby Hall of Fame last Friday along with Norm Maxwell and Reuben Thorne.

Sun The

New 800m Record

James Preston has broken Sir Peter Snell’s 62-year-old 800m national record at a meet in Pfungstadt, Germany.

The 27-year-old middle-distance runner from Wellington crossed the finish line in a time of 1:44:04 - which not only got him into the record books but also attained the Olympic qualifying standard. The mark bettered Sir Peter’s mark by 0.16 seconds, and beat his previous personal best, set at the New Zealand Track and Field Championships earlier this year, by 0.83 seconds.

Women’s Golf Pennant results

Results of the final Women’s Golf Pennant held at Picton 20-05-2024. Picton 9 vs Blenheim 3; Rarangi 7 vs Kaikoura 5; Marlborough 9 vs Awatere 3.

‘It’s an amazing game – we had some laughs’

By Chris Valli

Four members of the 1960 Marlborough Netball team caught up last week to tell tall tales of netball days past, present and future.

On May 21, Netball New Zealand became the first national netball body in the world to reach 100 years of existence, with a nation-wide day of celebration planned to highlight the occasion.

So was the case at the Lansdowne Sports Hub last Tuesday morning, now home to Marlborough Netball, where some of the regions outstanding contributors to netball caught up for a morning tea. In many ways, it was a reunion of old friends.

Pat Fong, Bev Woolley, Pam Whetton and Glenys Knighton all agree netball is more than a sport and has provided lifelong friendships on and off the court.

Tournaments for the Marlborough team were held across the country including trips to Invercargill, Dunedin and Wellington.

“They were great trips, very social indeed,” says Pat. “We had some great times and a lot of laughs.”

In 1936, because of the increasing numbers of teams competing, a third grade competition was instituted, with the Kiwi Trophy for winners, and the Armstrong Shield for the runners-up. During the war many sub-associations went into recess and no Dominion Tournaments were held until

1945. By 1958 the third grade competition had grown unwieldy and it was decided to institute a fourth grade.

All four ladies played the Dominion Tournament, Third Grade, held in Wellington from August 23 – 27th in 1960. The winners of that tournament went to Ashburton with Canterbury Sub Associations, the runners up.

Pat, Bev, Pam and Glenys were recognised by Marlborough Netball Patron Viv Broughton. Viv herself played at Blenheim Borough School and at Horton Park and recalled playing in black canvas boots all the local players had to have with ‘special eyelets’ that would not pull out.

From humble beginnings around the turn of the 20th Century, by 1924 netball was being

played on grass fields and asphalt courts throughout the country by women and schoolgirls in gym frocks and black stockings, to steadily evolve into a showpiece of athletic and skilful excellence.

In 1922, the four original associations of Auckland, Wellington, Canterbury and Otago drove the initiative towards forming a national association which came to fruition in May 1924 with the inauguration of the New Zealand Basketball Association. The colours of black with a silver fern emblem were adopted.

Pam says her earliest memories of playing netball was in Standard 4 (Year 6) playing on courts as a 10-year-old.

“It’s an amazing game now, it certainly is physical,” says Glenys. “It’s given the game a bit

of a push, excitement. It’s a great spectator sport.”

As for modern day nutritional and hydration intake with lean proteins for muscle repair/recovery to carbohydrate counting for fuel, the ladies were all unanimous when it came to what their diet was in the early 60s.

“Our training was pretty much just run around the court. There wasn’t much as far as nutrition in those days. It was up to you to do your own thing. There were fundamental skills we developed and practiced but certainly not where the game is at these days,” says Pam.

Coming into step with the rest of the world and changing to the seven-a-side version of the game in 1959 was the catalyst for huge growth in the game. A new

breed of radical netball administrators and the political climate of the time subsequently pushed the sport into the mainstream.

“The introduction of seven players caused a bit of confusion. Some were playing seven a side while other teams were playing nine a side,” says Pam. Pat and Bev played defence, Pam was a goal shooter – “she was a good goalie,” quips Bev - while Glenys played wing defence.

In 1970, New Zealand became the last country to adopt the name netball which until that time was still referred to as women’s basketball.

#In 1960, New Zealand won the first of three tests against Australia in Adelaide, 49-40. It was the Kiwi’s first ever victory against their Tasman rivals.

Overall winners for 2024 Marlborough 1st 44; Awatere 2nd 35; Blenheim/Kaikoura 28 3rd equal, Picton 23 5th, Rarangi 20 6th.

MORE THAN A GAME OF NETBALL: Marlborough’s 1960 Third Grade team reunited: Pam Whetton, Bev Woolley, Glenice Knighton and Pat Fong. On May 21, Netball New Zealand became the first national netball body in the world to reach 100 years of existence, with a nation-wide day of celebration to highlight the occasion.

Barbara Murray cuts the 100 years cake made by Blenheim’s Lyree Boughton.