Remember the name Taylor Costello. At eight years young, he has taken out the 2024 Silver Fern Farms Kartsport South Island Sprint Champs The event, held in Dunedin over Labour Weekend by Kartsport Dunedin Incorporated, saw six cadet competitors taking to the North Taieri track, which also included fellow Marlborough racer cadet, Jett Randall and Will Finch racing in the Vortex Mini.
Continued on page 2.
Riverlands School Year 4 student took out the 2024 Silver Fern Farms Kartsport South Island Sprint Champs held in Dunedin over Labour Weekend. “Very rarely do young drivers understand kart feedback but Taylor does which has really impressed me,” says Taylor’s driver coach Caleb Cross. Photo: supplied
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The future of Motorsport
Continued from page 1.
When the Blenheim Sun asked him what winning his first title meant, the sentiment was emphatic.
“Was the best feeling in the world. I knew all my hard work had paid off. I want to do it again,” he says.
Taylor, a year 4 Riverlands School student, started go-karting two years ago and along with father Pete, who bought a go kart and with the encouragement of a few of Pete’s mates, the wheels started turning for father and son. Proud Dad Pete Costello says they spent the weekend learning the track in beautiful summer conditions.
“Taylor got to grips pretty quickly and was pretty comfortable. He unofficially broke the Dunedin track lap record during the practice weekend,” says Pete.
Cue a southerly front which brought significant rain to many parts of the country including Marlborough over Labour weekend.
“Saturday was qualifying and two heats and the weather turned it on with freezing cold temps, rain and wind. The cadets did an amazing job navigating the conditions, I take my hat off to them all,” says Pete.
Taylor qualified on pole and finished both heats in P1. The pre final was a 19 lap race and Taylor held P1 and won. That afternoon the final was a 28 lap race in the rain again.
“Extremely proud of Taylor, he consistently drove lap after lap within a few tenths of a second each time and came away with the overall win, 20 seconds ahead of the field. This event was a title
event and with Taylor winning the Championship he now gets to change his number plate to SI (South Island) something he had set as a goal this year,” says Pete. “He has been so driven towards this and made sure he worked his butt off to give himself the best chance to achieve it. He finally got his podium champagne celebration.”
2024 has seen Taylor racing go karts at a national level with some ‘pretty awesome’ results. The Sunbelts Champs held in Blenheim and Nelson in June, he finished P1 (position one) and also won the Fair Play award chosen from all competitors from the weekend for driving at a high standard and showing respect to fellow competitors and officials. He now has a driver development coach, Jimmy McLaren, out of Queensland, Australia who has worked with Shane Van Gisbergen, Chaz Mostert and high profile karters in the Australian league. Taylor’s name is now engraved with some amazing drivers who started off in Cadet Class and have gone on to achieve great things in Motorsport such as Louis Sharp Motorsport, William Exton and Izaak Fletcher Motorsport.
Caleb Cross, a Multiple New Zealand Championship winning driver and Taylor’s driver coach based in Christchurch, says Taylor is following a familiar pattern to current international motorsport stars such as Callum Hedge, Liam Lawson and Louis Sharp by winning his respective island championship by a huge margin.
Caleb says Taylor’s win was the
largest winning margin of a South Island championship by a cadet in over a decade. As for Pete, he says it was the best moment as a family seeing him win the title.
“Gina (Mum) has been working so much to help keep the financial
STARTERS TAKE YOUR POSITION: Caleb giving last minute advice to Taylor at the Kartsport South Island Sprint Champs. Photo: supplied.
wheels on Taylors racing dream and she misses a lot of his racing so it was a special moment for her. Izzy, Taylor’s older sister was there to support and help him as well through the weekend and his number one supporter,” says Pete.
Local water done well
By Maia Hart Local Democracy Reporter
The Marlborough District Council will work with neighbouring Tasman and Buller councils to investigate options for water service delivery, but Nelson will not be part of the conversation.
The Government’s Local Water Done Well framework, which replaced Three Waters, includes an option for councils to amalgamate their water services through new council-owned organisations and “community trust” models.
The passing of the legislation in September gave councils a year to develop a water services delivery plan which would then need to be provided to the Department of Internal Affairs.
That plan must show a commitment to delivering water services to meet regulatory quality standards, be financially sustainable, meet drinking water quality standards and support housing growth and urban development.
At a full council meeting on Thursday, the council’s chief financial officer Geoff Blake sought approval from the council to start exploring its options, and proposed they investigate working with neighbouring councils.
“To be clear that doesn’t mean that that’s where we’re going to go, but this is simply looking at what is available to us, what are the benefits associated, the costs associated and how achievable is it, at the end of the day,” Blake said.
Some funding was available for this, including $545,000 in existing budgets to put towards the preparatory planning work.
The community would be consulted on the draft plan in July next year, Blake said.
“In order to do that we need to bring in some resource and expertise,” he said.
“High-level options, benefits and costs were to be presented to the assets and services committee in January.
“So there’s a fair bit of work associated with that – the technical delivery, the operational support, organisational models – lots of things to consider in this process.
“One of the key things, and you will recall from our long-term plan audit and the feedback from our auditors is the renewals – we need to have a really hard look at our 10-year renewal programme, for the purpose of this water services delivery plan as well.
“That is a priority for us to understand what level of funding and financing will be required, and financial sustainability of the operating model going forward.”
He said the key message they were being given was scale brought benefits.
“So the bigger an organisation that supports water, the more benefits that we will attain.
That’s yet to be proven in any detail, but that’s certainly the theory,” he said.
Wairau-Awatere ward councillor Gerald Hope asked why Nelson was not part of the engagement. Assets and services manager Richard Coningham
said Nelson had publicly decided to “go out on their own”.
“At this stage, we’ll be talking with Tasman … and Buller are open to looking at options as well, but Nelson have drawn their line in the sand and said they’re going to go on their own, and that’s their decision to make,” Coningham said.
Meanwhile, Marlborough Sounds ward councillor Ben Minehan asked for clarification around how scale could bring benefits should they work with other councils. Blake said a “couple of areas” sprung to mind.
“The bigger an entity, the more interesting the work, the more likely you are to attract good people with the right skills to actually deliver the programme,” he said.
“And ultimately, you attract good people, you attract the right systems, or you have the
ability to implement the right systems which deliver better results over time.
“So it’s not something that happens straight away, it builds and builds.
“It also gives you flexibility in terms of how you use your capital. One of the examples we heard as part of the information gathering here, that you have access to capital at consistent levels on an annual basis.”
The council gave staff approval to start engaging with neighbouring councils. Mayor Nadine Taylor said in a statement this set the council’s roadmap forward but was “of course not the final decision”.
Local Water Done Well was to be implemented in three stages, each with its own piece of legislation. Plans were required for all three waters networks; drinking water, wastewater and stormwater.
Sun The
Waitohi Open Art Studios
The Waitohi Picton Open Arts Studios event is planned for November 16 and 17 with 13 Marlborough artists opening their studios to visit, meet and enjoy their artwork.
The weekend is free and Blenheim Sun readers can pick up a brochure at Creative Artisans, High Street, Picton or The Marlborough Art Society, 204, High Street, Blenheim.
Redwood Lotto in the money
Redwood Village Lotto in Cleghorn Street sold a winning $19,513 Second Division Lotto ticket recently. Two lucky players also won Powerball Second Division, taking their total winnings to $27,055.
Organic conference tickets on sale
Organic Winegrowers NZ is bringing the Organic & Biodynamic Winegrowing Conference back to Marlborough next year. The three-day organic immersion will take place from June 16-18, 2025. Tickets are on sale via the conference website organicwineconference.com
Cancer charity announces new CEO
Bowel Cancer New Zealand has announced the appointment of Peter Huskinson as the new Chief Executive. Chair of the board Stefan Corbett says Peter’s extensive health sector leadership experience and his passion for extending better prevention and care to all communities will be a great asset as they work to beat New Zealand’s second biggest cancer killer.
We build out of town, up on hills, and in those hard to reach places.
Wherever your dream takes you, we'll build you the home you've always wanted.
The Government has introduced new legislation for how councils deliver water services. Photo: LDR
inbrief Sun The
Queen Charlotte Track Trial
Last summer’s trial to allow cyclists on a section of the Queen Charlotte Track (QCT) not previously accessible at that time of year have been mostly positive. Undertaken by the Marlborough District Council and the Department of Conservation (DOC) with the support of the Queen Charlotte Track Landowners Cooperative (QCTLC), the Trial saw the opening of the Meretoto/Ship Cove to Camp Bay section of the track to bikers from December 1 2023 to February 29 2024.
QCT Track Manager Tracey Green says the trial enabled the full length of the track to be accessible to all users during the peak period, offering a truly shared pathway for both cyclists and walkers. Five submissions were received about the trial – two in opposition and three outlining concerns but not opposed. To have your say, email feedback@ qctrack.nz by 15 November 2024 after which a final decision will be made by Council and DOC in conjunction with QCTLC.
Government spends $3.5M
The government spent more than $3.5 million defending itself against historical abuse claims in the last decade.
The figure - obtained under the Official Information Act - includes the legal fees Crown Law charged the government between 1 January 2014 and 1 January 2024.
Fees from Crown Law Office ($1,513,384.55), external lawyers ($1,639,352.81), silks ($247,372.89) and instructed barristers ($121,986.05) came to a total $3,522,096.30.
Blenheim’s Ronnie Meihana, a 2022 Bohally Intermediate student, featured in the Tom Knowles song/video ‘My People’. The song has won an award for ‘best short music video’ at the ‘RE-generation International Youth Film Festival’ in Melbourne recently.
Proud of all involved
By Chris Valli
Blenheim students who featured in the Tom Knowles song/video
‘My People’ two years ago have won an award for ‘best short music video’ at the ‘RE-generation International Youth Film Festival’ in Melbourne recently.
The award presented as part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival, in collaboration with the Los Angeles Youth Film Festival, is an annual event showcasing over 100 short films across four categories of Animation, Documentaries, Live Action and Music Videos.
The unique festival provides a rare platform for the work of young creatives to be seen
and appreciated alongside multi-award-winning cinematographers and animators from around the world. That platform has now put Marlborough’s children on a world stage.
The song, ‘My People’ from Tom’s album Atarangi: Morning Sky was filmed at Bohally Intermediate in 2022. The album has gone on to win People’s Choice Global Album of the Year at the 2023 Global Children’s Entertainment Awards.
“Those students have gone on to college now and have been involved in many other amazing things but the award is just as much theirs as it is mine,” Tom says. “Plus the video features the
beautiful landscapes of Marlborough and Rarangi Beach.”
“I am immensely proud of all involved and the support the production and the music received from the Marlborough community,” an enthusiastic Tom shared with the Blenheim Sun last week.
Meanwhile, the Bohally school production, directed by Tom’s mum Lindy, was nominated at the 2022 PAYPA (Performing Arts and Young People Aotearoa) awards and received a special mention for ‘Most Original Production’.
The album Atarangi: Morning Sky, was made possible with support from NZ on Air for tamariki, derived from the Bohally
premiere live production of the same name in 2021 at Blenheim’s ASB Theatre.
“It was suggested after the first performance to release the music from the show as an album to become more accessible. Obviously the plan is for the musical to still have a life now the album is completed and out in the world, and we are still working towards that happening again in the future,” says Tom.
Tom says 2025 will see the premiere of two new shows he has written. One is a children’s show he hopes to bring to Blenheim called, All The Things I Wish I Could Be, made for younger children.
Take the bang out of fireworks inbrief
By Chris Valli
Banning the use of fireworks on behalf of the ‘Animals of New Zealand’ is strongly supported by a Blenheim resident.
With the Lights Over Marlborough event, scheduled for Saturday, November 16, Tony Orman says last year he found his Labrador, Squire ‘deeply agitated’ by the explosions at A&P Park.
Living about 800 metres from the showgrounds Tony says the noise was deafening. His Labrador Squire was so nervous after the firework display and became upset at the distant noise of vineyard gas guns going off.
“Everything shuddered. You can bet the noise was well above council’s decibel rules,” he says. “The noise levels no doubt caused stress to people in ill health or elderly and very young children as well as people’s cats and dogs.”
Tony describes Squire as ‘typically Labrador’ friendly. He and partner Bridget have a pet cat and Squire and the tabby are great buddies.
Tony says he made enquiries to Mayor Taylor who in turn put the matter to council staff to respond. “The reply just didn’t make sense or logic,” he says. “It seems the A &P Showgrounds are classified as ‘open space’ and
the fireworks display a ‘special event’. Where a special event adjoins residential an activity must not be conducted between midnight and 7am,” he says.
The council reply stated ‘standard Open Space noise limits don’t apply for temporary activities’ but confusingly added, ‘provided noise does not exceed a level of 60 decibels at the boundary of any urban residential zone’.
“How many decibels are those bangs? The council reply just doesn’t make sense. In any case it’s totally inconsiderate and insensitive. There are residential areas surrounding the showgrounds far closer than our residence,” he says. “Yet the council’s rules seem to say in their words, temporary standards may exceed the standards. Frankly it’s bureaucratic gobblede-gook.”
Tony says he appreciated the fireworks display was to raise funds for Whitney Street School but questioned whether children would support an explosive event with ear shattering noise levels which terrify pet dogs and cats and cause stress to people of ill health.
Tony says, in a couple of cases, people with pets left Blenheim on the night to avoid their pets being traumatised.
The state of Squire after last year’s event resulted in a visit to a local vet and then an appoint-
Blenheim resident Tony Orman says last year he found his Labrador, Squire ‘deeply agitated’ by the explosions at the Lights Over Marlborough event. Living about 800 metres from the showgrounds Tony says his labrador Squire was so nervous after the firework display and became upset at the distant noise of vineyard gas guns going off.
ment with an animal behaviourist. Springlands Veterinary Centre Managing Director Jeremy Forlong says every year they have many of their clients voicing concerns about
their pet’s anxiety during Guy Fawkes. In recent years, he says they have an increased uptake of anti-anxiety medications for pets around the time.
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Ngati Rarua o te Wairau Society
Hospice Marlborough apologizes for the error in last week’s Blenheim Sun about Lexie the Marlborough Hospice cat. In the story it was stated Hospice Marlborough held 1 day of their 2-day spirituality course at Omaka Marae. This day was held at the marae of Ngati Rarua o te Wairau Society. Hospice Marlborough would like to express their sincere thanks to Lyn Bird, Molly Luke, Lovey and Erina for their warm welcome.
Breast screening age extension begins in Marlborough
Free breast screening has been extended for 70 to 74-year-old women living in the Nelson/Marlborough regions ahead of a national roll-out late next year.
Health Minister Dr Shane Reti announced last Thursday that women who participate in the BreastScreen Aotearoa programme are 34 per cent less likely to die from breast cancer.
“That’s why earlier this year I announced that the Government would extend breast cancer screening to women aged 70-74 – a commitment reinforced through Budget 2024, which delivered $31.2 million for this initiative,” he says.
Over the next five years, women will continue to be eligible, while living in Nelson/Marlborough, for screening at sites in district until they turn 75, before a roll out across the country from October 2025.
Todd Hopkins Blenheim
Muchas gracias. Thank you for the fantastic films. I cried and laughed so much and I look forward to next year.
The emotions the film evoked reminded me we are all connected through the human experience of joy and sorrow, love and loss.
It’s wonderful to see Marlborough embracing all of the cultures that make it such a vibrant community. The festival was another shining example of bringing together a wide range of our community to enjoy international movies that we would never get to experience otherwise.
I am proud that our Chilean ambassador to New Zealand, Manahi Pakarati, together with Consul Alejandra Farías, gave the green light for the festival. This commitment and representation is appreciated.
The Film Festival was excellent. It brought a diversity of films to Marlborough. It would be nice to have these types of events every year.
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.
This was my first time attending the festival. I really enjoyed seeing films from many different countries, and made it to four different films. It was also really awesome that the
Dear Ed
The editor reserves the right to abridge letters or withhold letters from publication. Email them to news@blenheimsun. co.nz or present to our office at 72 High St.
Please note that your name and street address MUST be provided with emails.
Dear Ed
In a recent Blenheim Sun, mention was made of the new senior housing complex, which the council is to be congratulated on. However, not a solar panel in place. Such a wasted opportunity to future proof power costs for such a vulnerable group of tenants. Come on MDC you can do better.
Also, in the MDC news, the Councillors were self-congratulating their use of virtual building inspections, saving over 1000 man hours, 32,000km of travel and pollution costs equating to 15 percent, which they are promising will only grow.
Again, the council is to be congratulated for keeping up with technology. My question though is ‘what benefits will ratepayers gain from this, either by reduced building costs, staff or annual rates?’
Chris Davies Picton
Great write up in the paper last week. We have delivered a very rewarding performance of The Heart of the Father in Invercargill to 300 plus school students and have our closing show for the public tonight. Thanks again for your support and helping increase visibility of this very important work. Malo ‘aupito - thanks very much.
Nicole Fua Creative
Marlborough District Council response Dear Editor.
In response to the letter from Chris Davies, the new housing units are designed to Lifemark and national insulation standards, providing warm, energy efficient homes. Providing all 190 council tenants with solar power has a significant capital cost that would have to be funded by ratepayers or tenants through increased rents.
There are significant cost savings for people who use the new virtual/remote building inspection service. Council’s funding model means that the travel component of the building consent fee is refunded to the consent applicant. For example a building in Blenheim using a remote inspection will be eligible for a refund of about $100 per inspection; for Picton it’s about $130; Anakiwa about $303; Lochmara would be $537 and Endeavour Inlet would be refunded about $768 per inspection. Up to 10 inspections can be undertaken remotely on each new building project, so the savings really add up.
Corie Boley Blenheim
Maria Isabel Flores Blenheim
Fiona Fenwick Blenheim
Debbie Early Blenheim
Maria Valencia Blenheim
MAD ABOUT RAPUNZEL: Marlborough Academy of Dance students in rehearsal mode for Rapunzel – a Tangled Tale. The four show season of Rapunzel is at the ASB Theatre from Friday. November 22 to Sunday, November 24. Pictured from left – right is; Tia Kyle Amelie Walker (flyer), Matilda Jackson, Mia Koubek (flyer) and Paige Norton. Photo: Ayla Shaw.
Have your say
on the future path of Destination Marlborough
Council is inviting public feedback on the future of visitor industry support services via an online survey as part of the Destination Marlborough Future Path Project.
You can complete the survey and read the engagement document at: links. marlborough.govt.nz/haveyoursay
Deputy Mayor David Croad said the Destination Marlborough Trust was established by Council as Marlborough’s regional tourism organisation responsible for tourism marketing and management in October 1997.
Following the collective resignation of the chair and board of Destination Marlborough in September 2023, Council appointed four commissioners - Councillors Croad and Barbara Faulls, tourism consultant Tracy Johnston and tourism provider Trevor Hook.
“We were tasked with taking a closer look at the organisation including considering the immediate future. It became clear during this process that change was needed to ensure Marlborough’s promotion and visitor management efforts could continue,” Councillor Croad said.
In June 2024 the Trust was disestablished and its functions brought under the management of Council for the short term, while longer term options were considered. Tracey Green was appointed as Interim General Manager.
“The purpose of the Future Path Project is to rescope and redesign the future role, purpose, functions, structure and resourcing of Destination Marlborough so it can contribute to Marlborough’s future success,” Councillor Croad said.
“We decided to embark on an Investment Logic Mapping (ILM) process to help us understand the problem faced by the organisation, its impacts and the desired benefits before we began looking at the solutions. Now we want to evaluate the key outcomes of the ILM with stakeholders, seeking feedback and suggestions,” Councillor Croad said.
Destination Marlborough continues for the immediate future as part of Council - within its existing funding structure - to ensure the tourism marketing of Marlborough continues while its function and structure is reviewed.
Come along to a public meeting at: Blenheim:
6 November 10am - 12pm
Scenic Hotel Marlborough (Chart Room)
Seddon:
7 November 10am - 12pm
The Train Station
Havelock:
8 November 10am - 12pm
Havelock Sports Pavilion
Have your say on the future of Marlborough’s visitor industry support services as part of the Destination Marlborough Future Path Project
Sniffing out Chilean needle grass
A Chilean needle grass detector dog was in Marlborough recently on the hunt for the highly invasive weed.
Environment Canterbury biosecurity officer Lauren Piket and dog Archie visited five agricultural properties where infestations had been found. They were successful in sniffing out a number of new plants.
Council’s Biosecurity team is working hard to combat the long-term threat from Chilean needle grass, with 2,615 hectares now affected in the region.
Senior Biosecurity Officer Hayden Nott urged people to be on the lookout with Chilean needle grass starting to produce seed. “It will be more visible from early November,” he said.
In July, a rust fungus that affects Chilean needle grass was approved for release to help contain the grass.
“We hope the rust will become well established in Marlborough, slowing the growth and seeding ability of Chilean needle grass and reducing harm to livestock and loss of production,” Mr Nott said.
Chilean needle grass was first recorded in Marlborough in the 1940s in the Blind River area.
Lauren Piket and Archie the detector dog searching for Chilean needle grass
Anyone seeing Chilean needle grass is urged to contact Council’s Biosecurity team as soon as possible.
Calling all Picton seniors
Nau mai, haere mai – welcome to the inaugural Picton Seniors’ Expo.
Building on the success of the annual Blenheim-based event, Council’s Community Partnerships team are bringing the seniors’ expo format to Picton’s Port Marlborough Endeavour Park Pavilion for the first time on Tuesday 12 November.
Community Partnerships Advisor Jodie Griffiths said the Picton event, from 10.30am to 12.30pm, was aimed at older people in the Picton and Sounds community to help them find out more about services and activities for seniors.
Council’s library and customer services staff will also be on hand as well as the Marlborough Community Vehicle Trust, Picton Flower Ladies, Churchill Trust, Age Concern Marlborough, Grey Power Marlborough, Marlborough Community Law, Hone Hato St John and more.
“It’s a trial run for us in Picton and we are really pleased with the support from stall holders with around thirtyfive different stands signed up for the expo. There will be performance, homemade scones from Marina Cove with complimentary tea and coffee and entry is free,” Ms Griffiths said.
Calling all Picton seniors – you are invited to come along to an upcoming expo based on the successful Blenheim-based annual event
Team Cure Kids one
Apparently running a marathon is one of the toughest things you can do. As Chris Valli finds out, it feels even better when you raise money for Cure Kids New Zealand in the city that never sleeps.
While the race for the White House was to be determined this week with Democratic vice-president Kamala Harris and former Republican president Donald Trump, two Blenheim runners choose to run their own respective race raising money for Cure Kids New Zealand.
Simon Popham and Kaycee Polkinghorne have certainly been in the print media headlines in Marlborough 2024 through various fundraises including quiz nights and a Cure Kids Masquerade Ball in June to making the 14,467 kilometres flight from Blenheim/ Waiharakeke) to New York.
Indeed, something special happens in New York on the first Sunday in November. Runners of all colours, creeds and speeds chase their marathon dreams through the city’s streets.
“It was about doing something that was bigger than us and raising money for Cure Kids just makes the experience so much better.”
To provide context, Cure Kids research has improved health outcomes for kids in New Zealand, and around the world. Since Sir Bob Elliott and Dr Ron Caughey established the charity in 1971, Cure Kids has invested over $60 million into research in this country, helping to improve the diagnosis and treatment of children with serious diseases and health conditions.
Cure Kids is currently funding some important research in the South Island. This includes Professor Stephen Robertson’s team at the University of Otago, whose research has showed specific genes are linked to malformation of the skeleton and brain. There is also the University of Canterbury’s paediatric gastroenterologist Professor Andrew Day
researching inflammatory bowel disease.
With the exception of 2012, the New York Marathon has been run every year since 1970. Entry is either by time qualification, through a lottery system, committing to raise money for charity or booking through selected travel agents who provide a package of entry, flights and accommodation. Accommodation prices in New York go up by about 25% in marathon week, on a par with Christmas and New Year.
The TCS New York City Marathon kicked off on Sunday morning (US time) and the Big Apple was buzzing. The Big Apple tasted delicious for the running buddies who this year have raised just over $20,000 for Cure Kids New Zealand.
While some of us may have been enjoying the down time on Marlborough Anniversary Day (Monday, November 4), the duo finished the notorious 42 kilometre (26.2 miles) marathon in just under six hours on Sunday, November 3 (US time).
Simon says completing the marathon in a time of six hours was certainly the goal. The marathon, he suggests, would rate top of the bucket list.
“Kaycee says she is too young to have a bucket list but I’m guessing its right up there. She did bloody well,” he says afterwards, in what was Kaycee’s first ever marathon and also endured a foot injury. “We’re really happy with what we have achieved…pure exhaustion for Kaycee and just super proud and elated for me.”
Kaycee had only started running in February 2024 and remarkably has completed one of the largest and more vibrant marathons in the world. As for Simon, it was marathon number six. Run almost every year since 1970, it is also one of the six races in the Abbott World Marathon Majors series and is the final to be held in a calendar year.
“It was a beautiful day in New York, perfect running conditions about 15 degrees, beautiful clear sky, which was fortunate as it was unseasonably warm in the past week and fortunately we didn’t have to run in that. It was about doing something that was bigger than us and raising money for Cure Kids just makes the experience so much better.”
The marathon begins in Staten Island and
moves through Brooklyn and up into Queens. Runners then take on the east side of Manhattan, spend a couple miles traveling through the Bronx, before making their way through Central Park to the finish line.
The New York Road Runners team lives on Staten Island for about four weeks before the marathon to build the ‘start village’, a small city for over 50,000 runners to begin their journey.
As for any potential Marlburians who might see the New York or other marathons as a goal, Simon’s advice is to go through an organized group such as Marathon Tours
and or a recognised charity.
Marathon Tours provides customised and escorted running tours for Kiwis and their team are marathon travel specialists, taking runners and walkers to the world’s premium marathon events for unforgettable experiences.
Heading into the festive season, Simon says the plan will be some down time and “time off the legs,” he laughs.
“Blenheim Sun readers can pledge their own support for Cure Kids by texting ‘marathon’ to 305 to make a $3 donation or go to nycmarathon.curekids.org.nz/simonkaycee.
RUNNING FOR CURE KIDS: “We’re really happy with what we have achieved...pure exhaustion for Kaycee and just super proud and elated for me,” says Simon Popham along with racing buddy Kaycee Polkinghorne after completing the New York marathon at the weekend.
draw the winning raffle number.
Forever grateful
By Chris Valli
A Halloween raffle from Caltex Main Street Blenheim has raised $632 for the families of three people killed after their vehicle crashed into the Tuamarina River last month.
Site Manager Kayla Jones says the fundraiser was a way for people to give back to the families who lost
their loved ones.
Tyler Matekohi-Shields, 22, was one of the three people killed. The other two fatalities were 19-yearolds Brayden Allen and Jamie Cunningham.
Kayla says they had Officer Tim Goodall from the Blenheim Police pop down and draw it and drew number 86.
“That was a ticket purchased by a
good friend of mine from Oamaru who nominated his 20 tickets to be split between Marlborough Youth Trust and Box on Boxing Blenheim. The ticket drawn was Box on Boxing and as we know, Lee Tepuia is the uncle of Tyler Shields who lost his life in the crash. Way to bring it full circle,” she says.
Kayla says in total each donation was $316 per person with $316 go-
Timing. Timing. Timing. Peak Living changes everything
By Stuart Bilbrough, Peak Living CEO
Over my career in the retirement village industry I’ve learned two important things about retirement living. The first: everyone’s retirement story is different. The second: everybody wishes they had started their search earlier.
Often what prompts them to make the move is an unwelcome event. Family moving overseas. An accident. A serious injury. An illness. A diagnosis. A death. That’s when people wish they’d started earlier. That’s also when making the move becomes more difficult. Here’s some reasons:
• A good place is hard to find.
The current build rate for retirement village units across New Zealand is too low especially in provincial locations. On average approximately 1,900 retirement village units are built every year. In a recent report
Jones Lang LaSalle estimated that the build rate needs to increase to 2,440 units per annum over the next decade to meet the needs of the silver tsunami.
• Prices will have risen since the last time you looked.
Retirement village prices typically increase in line with local residential property prices. Since December 1990, the average annual increase across New Zealand has been 5.3 per cent. If you take three years to decide it is time to move into a retirement village, the price could have increased by 15 per cent. A $600,000 villa when you first looked could now be upwards of $700,000.
• The housing market may not be favourable.
Around 80 per cent of new residents need to sell their home before moving into a retirement village. However, the residential property market can be volatile. My mother
Jan decided it was time to move into her preferred village two years ago. Having reduced the price of her house considerably since then it still hasn’t sold.
The problem is, under the current model, you can’t directly start earlier. You can only purchase an ORA (Occupation Rights Agreement) when you’re ready to move in.
Peak Living provides a solution. You can invest in what we are calling a “Ticket to Occupy” now, lock in the price in your preferred village and redeem your ticket for an ORA at any time of your choosing over the next 15 years, and the deferred management fee is locked in at the time of the original investment.
Let’s look at three examples. Each invests $600,000 today to secure a ticket to occupy. On exit each is liable to pay a deferred management fee which we’ll say is fixed at 30 per cent of the initial investment price:
$180,000. We also expect an annual return on this investment will be paid at around 5 per cent gross: $30,000 per annum.
• George and Martha receive an annual return until they redeem their ticket to occupy in 2026. While the median entry price is now $700,000, they have effectively paid in full through their investment. They exit after 5 years, receiving $520,000.
• Philip and Elizabeth receive an annual return until they redeem their ticket to occupy in 2028. While the median entry price is now $800,000, they have paid in full. They exit after 7 years, receiving $620,000.
• Catherine receives an annual return on her $600,000 investment until she redeems her ticket to occupy in 2034. While the median entry price is now $1,200,000, she has paid in full. Catherine exits after 6 years,
ing to Tyler’s Give a Little and $632 going to the Nelson Marlborough Rescue chopper.
“I couldn’t be prouder of this community and this country. We had people donate from the top of the north to the bottom of the south and your article about us on the front page reached so many more people. It was incredible. We are forever grateful,” says Kayla.
receiving $1,020,000.
Comparing Catherine’s example with the business model of many retirement village operators, Catherine would have paid an entry price of $1,200,000 and on exit after 6 years she, or her estate, would receive $840,000, i.e. the entry price less a 30 per cent deferred management fee.
Next week I’ll talk about at how Peak manages governance and risk.
Caltex employee Reihana Turner-Taylor and Officer Tim Goodall from the Blenheim Police
Aftershocks Collective to rock Ward
By Chris Valli
Ward local Jim Rudd considers he is fortunate to have his band on board for a fundraising event towards the new heritage centre in Ward this month.
Two years ago Jim decided to donate all his gig money to the Heritage Centre project and did solo appearances for the steam train and cruise ship to Seddon along with other private gigs.
“This was a way to get more funds across to the project than I could otherwise do and so I am fortunate to have the rest of the band on board for this cause,” says Jim.
The 2016 Kaikōura earthquake wrote off Flaxbourne’s museum and in 2021, the community launched a project to build a new heritage centre. The heritage centre would mark the 1855, 2013 and 2016 earthquakes, and cover the area’s history of Māori settlement, moa hunters, European settlers, shipwrecks, people and landscapes.
The Aftershocks Collective band was born from the aftermath of the earthquake and was initially, although perhaps not appreciated at the time says Jim, vocalist and guitarist, “a distraction and stress relief whilst rebuilding our lives back to normality.”
Jim and Dave Fibbes, from Seddon (lead guitar, harmonica and vocals) jammed together regularly in Jim’s man cave studio on the farm and formed the basis of a band.
“Since then we gained some new members. My daughter Gemma Webster (drums and vocals), and more latterly a guy who has brought so much to the table, Blenheim’s Terry Bleakley on keyboard and vocals,”
Jim says.
“Being a collective with a fluid membership, Seddon’s Liz Clever (percussion and vocals) has joined, and we have one other member who is away at present, Christina Shaw, having recently started a family.”
Jim says the Heritage Centre project is a major focus for Ward and the main driving force has been Sally Peter.
“Sally and her husband Rob have recently moved into their new home, a result of the earthquake, on their ‘isolation’ property in the Ure Valley where my family have farmed for nearly 100 years.
“The Aftershocks Collective ‘world tour of Ward’ is just another continuation of this initiative,” says Jim, adding “this is a Rock n’ Roll band and they won’t be playing any waltzes or quicksteps.”
The Hertiage project has been very fortunate to receive financial support from the Marlborough District Council. A grant of $250K from the 2022 Annual Plan being a large part of that.
“Progress is steady and the build is complete with the fit-out planned to start soon. A target opening date is planned for April 2025,” says Jim.
The Heritage Centre would house a number of community artefacts, and have an archive room and a cinema, while featuring the geological formation of the landscape and the first fauna and flora, the first Polynesian arrivals in South Marlborough, and European settlers.
The Aftershocks Collective band plays November 30, in the ‘big shed’, Ward Domain Showgrounds from 7pm.
AFTERSHOCKS FOR WARD: From Left to Right, Terry Bleakley, Jim Rudd, Gemma Webster and Dave Fibbes.
Dear diary, I’m thriving in my new home, just like the strawberries
Love life on your terms.
At Summerset Blenheim there are fewer chores and more choice. So if you’re done with gardening, you can hang up your gloves. But if you’re a big fan of getting amongst the flowerbeds, there’s a community of green-thumbs just waiting to meet you.
We have two bedroom homes available with flexible pricing from $656,700.* Plus, for a limited time, we’ll help you every step of the way with $2,000 towards your legal fees, a moving service package, and window furnishings from our CurtainStudio range. Simply sign a sales application for a selected home between 1 October 2024 and 31 December 2024, and then settle by 31 March 2025.#
I have been reading a lot about ‘old people’ recently and I thought, what is the definition of ‘old’? I do not believe we can label people as old because of their age anymore.
Many people are now in paid work well into their 70’s, or they are fully occupied carrying out volunteer work in their communities. Seniors, who are financially able to, are travelling overseas once they retire. I see retirees riding their bikes, joining exercise programmes, actively looking after grandchildren while their own children go out to work.
Our cohorts are living a lot longer too. Back in the 1940’s, the average lifespan for a male was 67 and for women it was 68; in 2024 that expectancy has now gone up to 80.6 years for men and 83.89 years for women.
With modern technology at our fingertips, we have a lot more options to keep our brains active and enquiring, while modern medicines keep us healthier.
The biggest sign that we are getting older, in my opinion, is that our bodies won’t allow us to do physically what we could 10 years ago and 10 years before that.
Looking back at my short time on this earth, 67 in total, we have gone from:
• Telephone party lines to zoom meetings on-line
• Paying for everything with cash to now having payWave
• Paying things off on layby to now using credit cards
The list goes on.
Says writer John Byrne, “Getting older is fine. There is nothing you can do to stop it, so you might as well stay on the bus.” I heartily concur.
Gayle Chambers, President
As you can imagine it’s been a busy time for me since taking on the role of National President at the June Federation AGM. However, the leadership transition has gone well and below are a few highlights from my full national report that will give you an idea of what we are doing nationally.
On top of the board’s very long to-do list was going back through remits from 2022 and 2023 and identifying whether these had been actioned. I am pleased to say that we have now actioned the remits that we could, lobbied government ministers on remits presented, and in a few cases determined where there was not enough evidence to corroborate the remit. All association and zone endorsed remit providers have been
notified of the outcomes, and we are still working on the 2024 remits.
We have an upcoming planned lobby trip to Parliament where we will be focusing on:
• Disparities in Home Community Care services
• Long waiting lists for geriatric surgeries
• Cognitive driving tests for seniors 80 years and over, with some being tested at 75+.
• Rates rebates and accommodation supplements needing to be raised
• Shingles Vaccine
• Integration of all-purpose sirens for Emergency Management
A report on our lobby visit will be in the next Grey Power magazine.
I have been advised by the board
that the 50+ age requirement has been dropped for those that want to become members. Please be advised, if people under 50 now want to join Grey Power they certainly can.
Since June, I have also had the opportunity to visit some of the associations and zones at their request. It is amazing meeting delegates from all these areas who are working so hard in the name of Grey Power, and it has been an absolute privilege. I would like to thank all our Grey Power members for supporting the Federation to work on your behalf. You all make a difference to what we can achieve.
Gayle C. Chambers Grey Power Federation National President
Beware of Legionella bacteria in potting mix and compost
Warmer weather and longer days bring many Kiwis out into the garden. However, it’s also unfortunately the time when gardeners are most at risk of catching Legionnaires’ disease from bags or bulk loads of potting mix and compost. With 108 cases of the disease already confirmed across the country this year, Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is urging gardeners to take care.
Dr Cheryl Brunton, Medical Officer of Health for the National Public Health Service says “Bagged potting mix and compost can contain Legionella bacteria, which when breathed in, can cause Legionnaires’ dis-
ease. This disease is a type of pneumonia, which can be severe and in some cases life threatening.”
Across the country, there is typically a spike in cases of Legionnaires’ disease in spring that can be associated with increased gardening activity and warmer weather. Dr Brunton says there are some simple actions gardeners should take to avoid getting Legionnaires’ disease:
• Work with potting mix or compost in a well-ventilated outdoor area
• Wear a well-fitting face mask. An N95 or respirator is best
• Wear gloves when handling
potting mix or compost
• Open potting mix or compost bags carefully using scissors and open them away from your face
• Reduce dust by dampening down the potting mix or compost before using it
• Wash your hands thoroughly after handling potting mix or compost and before touching your face or removing your mask.
Says Dr Brunton, “Legionnaires’ disease is a very serious illness and following these simple steps can be lifesaving”.
Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora, September 2024
MARLBOROUGH
Advocating for people 50 +
Scam Alerts
Scammers using deepfake celebrity images
The NZ Financial Markets Authority has received several reports regarding fake celebrity endorsement advertisements on social media, promoting online investment schemes. They have identified multiple websites that are part of this scam but believe there may be more connected as they frequently change. The FMA are aware of New Zealanders who have invested through these websites and are now unable to withdraw funds, with
QR Code Scam Alert
The NZ Police have released an interesting update on a scam that is happening overseas and is making its way into NZ. The scam, known overseas as “brushing”, involves scammers sending small, unsolicited parcels containing low-value items to random members of the public.
Along with the package is a QR code which claims to provide information about the sender. However,
Of Note…
WE NEED YOUR HELP. Firstly, thank you to all who replied to our online survey about saving postage costs. We are working through the results, but it is immediately apparent that the rising costs of postage are outstripping our resources. We still have many members who rely on the post for hearing from us, and so we ask for your help.
additional fees requested before allowing withdrawals.
The scammer creates an advertisement on a social media platform featuring a deepfake video of an interview with a celebrity or a fake news article, appearing to be from a reputable New Zealand media platform. Clicking on this ad leads to a fake news article on an imposter website designed to look like a reputable New Zealand news platform. This article describes an
instead of providing information, the QR code is designed to gather personal and payment information. Usually the ‘gifts’ from the scammer include the address of the recipient but not any information about the sender with the scammers hoping to make people curious enough to scan the QR code.
The scam works because the QR code allows bad actors to access any and all information, data, photos,
interview with the celebrity where they discuss making big profits using a certain investment platform. The FMA recommends extreme caution when engaging with social media advertising using the image of celebrities to promote investment opportunities. If you come across these ads, do not click on them and don’t give them your personal information.
Russ Smith, New Zealand Police, Blenheim.
bank account details from the device (phone, tablet etc).
Our team has not seen this scam yet or had any mention of it to us before now, however it is very concerning to hear about. Bluehex agrees with the NZ Police and advises that if you receive a suspicious package as described, NOT SCAN THE QR CODE and report the receipt to the NZ Police and Cert NZ. BlueHex Team, Wellington, NZ
Office Snippets
Blenheim Petanque Club are looking for new members/ players. Go along to the club at 65A Weld Street, Blenheim, on Wednesdays, 1 - 3pm or Sundays, 10am - 12 noon to try it out. Phone Russell on 579 1952 if you have any questions.
If you have a local business and may be interested in advertising in our Discount Book, please contact the office as soon as possible, office@greypowermarlborough.co.nz or telephone 03 578 4950.
If you would like to join Grey Power Marlborough, please see our website, www.greypowermarlborough. co.nz or come into the office at Room 19, 25 Alfred Street, Blenheim. $29 for an individual, $43 for a joint membership. Easy car parking at the car park behind Farmers or at the Clubs of Marlborough car park. The office is open Monday to Friday, 9am - 1pm. Join us before you need us!
If you have not paid your annual subscription yet this year, it is not too late.
Advance notice for Christmas office hours: the office will be closed from 1pm Friday 13 December. The office will re-open at 9am on Monday 6 January 2025.
Grey Power Electricity have partnered with Cove Insurance and have new discounts available for their customers for car and pet insurance. Ask at the office, or view online at www.greypowerelectricity.co.nz/insurance.
Events:
Monday 11 November, 1 - 3pm, More Stable More Able, Falls Prevention, at Stadium 2000. FREE session for anyone at risk or has had a fall. Book in with Ange Baker, 021 790 415, fallsprevention@nbph.org.nz
Do you have a box of window envelopes gathering dust? Or do you have some postage stamps that you could donate? Please contact the office if you can help and know that anything you have would be greatly appreciated.
Use that Discount Book! 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: One 2 One Hairdressing, Ortho-Dent Denture Clinic, PC Media, Quest Plated Meals, Ray White Real Estate, Red Hot Fashions, Roast on the Run, Ryan Lawnmowing, Screw Loose Maintenance, Security Alert Personal Alarms, Selmes Garden Centre.
Tuesday 12 November, 10.30am – 12.30pm, Picton Seniors Expo at Endeavour Pavilion, Waikawa Road, Picton. Come and find out about services and activities for older people in your community. FREE entry, all welcome.
Wednesday 20th November, 10am-2pm, Age Concern Driving Course: Enrol for our FREE Driving Refresher course. Learn the new road rules and refresh the old ones. Classroom-based, no driving involved, a day’s course with lunch included. Please call the office to enrol and for more details, 03 579 3457
Marlborough
If you can think it, we can help you make it. Talk to an ITM sales rep today and let’s get it underway.
It’s always a ‘goody at the Woody’ and this weekend it gets even better with the Harcourts Rural Speedshear taking place.
The event at Renwick’s Woodbourne Tavern has been running since 2013 with a sabbatical in 2021 due to the pandemic.
Shearing has progressed from being a physically demanding and arduous farm task to being recognised as an elite sporting pursuit and there will be some characters lining up to show their prowess on Saturday.
Apparently, a true shearer will efficiently remove the fleece from the sheep without double cutting the wool fibre or causing injury to the animal or self, all at speed.
Woodbourne Tavern co-owner Stacey Goodwin says they are en-
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couraging shearers from all around the top of the south to come and enter with the large pool of prize money this year thanks to the ‘awesome sponsors’. Don’t wait, register now.
A bark-up for dogs and their enthusiastic owners starts at 6.30pm with an entry fee of $5 per dog.
The shearing takes place in the back bar on a stage the tavern prepares and the sheep are fed through a race to the stage. Dogs for the bark up come directly on to the stage and do their thing.
Stacey says the initiative for the Speedshear came about through a conversation with Sarah Houston (nee Higgins) who thought of the idea with her brother Duncan.
“They helped us along with Chris Jones who has been actively involved
with this event from its conception. We watched the East Coast Inn Speed shear (Ward) back in 2012 and thought it would be cool to have it at the Woody.”
Stacey says the best thing about the Speedshear is bringing the country to town.
“It’s a spectacle of elite athletes pushing themselves to be the fastest on the night. It’s fun, fast and loud.” Registrations for the event are taken at the Woodbourne Tavern on or before the night and includes a shearer’s singlet. Spectators are welcome. The Speedshear is this Saturday, November 9. The evening kicks off at 6.30pm with the Bark Up followed by the shearing from 7.30pm and live music from Grumpy Monkey later in the night. See you there!
The Harcourts Rural Speadshear is on this Saturday at the Woodbourne Tavern.
Ram sales down
The financial crisis affecting the sheep industry will be reflected in fewer rams being sold this year compared to recent years, according to a top breeding business.
Wairere Rams is New Zealand’s largest predominantly Romney stud, based in Wairarapa. Its principal Derek Daniell says after a decade of selling about 2600 rams a year, the financial pinch was really hitting and it had reduced its ram offering to 1800.
No sheep farmers made a profit in 2023, a few had “substantial losses”, and with conditions wobbly this year after storms and droughts, he expected to once again sell 30 percent fewer rams, he said. “It’s tough
Farmers are still "chasing genetics", but the trade-off in terms of cash flow at the moment is buying fewer rams.
Supplied.
SATURDAY, 9TH NOVEMBER
selling, that’s for sure.”
Derek says they would sell for similar prices to last year – average rams were $1450, a few better ones would go for $1950, and the real elite for $2750.
While the Romney breed was still the mainstay of the New Zealand flock, Daniell says sheep that shed wool, or did not produce wool, were popular and he was expecting a good up-take of Nudie rams. Nudies had been bred in the United Kingdom for more than 50 years, using genetics from Welsh Mountain and Wiltshire sheep.
The ram-selling season started in October and runs until December.
Photo:
IRT NZ Trotting Cup
Tuesday 13th November 2024
This years New Zealand IRT Trotting Cup should be dominated by the Australian sensation Leap to Fame.
Leap to Fame’s impressive performance shows 44 wins and nine placings from 55 starts, and more than $3.2mil in stake monies.
Under a cloud two weeks ago the Bettors Delight colt Leap to Fame bounced back into favouritism with a last start win on October 26 at MENANGLE.
Queenslander Grant Dixon - trainer/driver will be confident he can carry on his winning way and add a NZ Cup to his many trophies. The local contenders and the main hopes
for a Kiwi win will rest with Merlin, winner of the Ashburton Flying stakes and runner up Don’t Stop Dreaming. They will need front row draws and good beginnings in the standing start two mile race.
Leap to Fame could be the third Australian to win the race in recent times.
Last year the NZ Cup was won by Swayzee and in 2015 by Arden Rooney.
Over the years we have seen some great NZ Cup spectacles with Christian Cullen in 1998 and Lord Module in 1979 and this year could be another with Leap to Fame.
The race starts at 5pm on Tuesday 13th November.
Leap to Fame wins the 2024 $1 million Miracle Mile at Menangle.
Gone but not forgotten
Thanks to Jamie Arbuckle for his valuable contribution to council. Also for his contributions to various charities in our midst, through donating from his salary. All the best.
Roundabouts
It might be pure speculation on my behalf, or... if every Blenheim driver re-sat their licence I feel our roads would be very quiet. I am unsure if the problem is failing to understand basic road rules or IGNORANCE.
Guy Fawkes
How is it that a local Christian school and Church can run an event on Halloween night and call it a Light Party? It is not a Christian activity but a cover up for what is really an evil practice.
Corner dairies
Good question - do we still need corner dairies?
Maybe not but I’d like them to keep going. Can be handy at times.
Rapaura School Fair
Thank you so much you guys for asking kids for their take on Rapaura fair, made my day xx
Wheelie bin clips
I thought that having wheelie bins would cut down labour costs and make pick ups easier. Now we find CLIPS for the lids, now the driver has to get out and unclip every bin before unloading everyone?
Foul Language
No wonder youth and young people have no respect for anything today.
A minor political party co leader kept dropping the F bomb many times when being interviewed by a tv reporter on television. Asked if she thought it was right to keep using the F bomb she seemed to think its quite ok ,what a disgrace for someone who is meant to be a leader.
Hinepango wetlands
Whoever is in charge need to finish what they’ve started. Since when were enormous scotch thistle acceptable. Vast amount of money spent then just left to be over taken by noxious weeds. Whole project looks appalling.
Wooden oar
If anyone has lost a wooden oar over the Labour weekend in the Opawa loop, I have it. Please phone 027 433 5625.
No service...no sale!
Absolutely astounded to witness the commercially unthinkable last Saturday, early evening at the local supermarket establishment. No Checkout Operators! Nope! None on the 1-15 Item Counter, Cash Sale or Card Only Sale Counters! It was a case of serve yourself (and no discount for doing so) or no sale. A very easy choice and like an increasing number of Marlburians, I will be shopping elsewhere in future.
My very grateful thanks
On Thursday, while walking in Westhaven Place, I tripped and fell onto the road. Two men put me onto the grass,called an ambulance and kept me company until the ambulance arrived. Unfortunately guys I can’t remember your names but my very grateful thanks. To Kirsty from Koromiko, thank you for your very kind deed. Also thanks to the two ambulance women and the ED staff who patched me up.
NZ Post Pandemic
So the diseased (non) thinking of the hierarchy within NZ Post looks as though it is going to kill off the last of the Big Three Sectors of the former NZ Post Office by reducing services even further.
Totally predictable really as any business is doomed to fail when it doubles retail prices and reduces services by 50 percent.
One can’t help thinking that it would be totally fitting to see the same 50 percent reduction principle applied to the redundancy packages for the said hierarchy.
Re: Local primary school
What on earth are you on about? Your text makes very little sense and seems to be full of generalisations. If you have a gripe about a particular primary school and its staff, then talk to the school. Don’t anonymously mouth off here without naming the school. Didn’t want to name the school huh? Thought so.
Re: car park
Same problem in our once quiet street. Hair dressing salon. Clients can arrive from 6am and weekends. Park over our driveways with no respect. Another business in a residential street. No wonder town is empty.
Jamie Arbuckle
Thank you Jamie for all your hard work for the Marlborough community. As a newly elected councillor you stood up for the community and I imagine you copped quite a bit of flack for that.
There is no irony lost in the fact that you have joined a political party with those same values. I will continue to watch your progress with admiration.
Bullying
Bullying is a very serious issue across all of society. Workplaces have serious bully issues to the detriment of production and mental health. School bullying is an issue that is ignored at our peril. Should this not be arrested at an early stage, the real impacts of suicide, violent crime and anti social behaviour are lifelong. NZ has the second worst bullying stats in the OECD. Isn’t it time to involve the community in this issue and not continue to rely on schools to fix it? We couldn’t do any worse.
Thirsty
Another plane diverted because of a drunken passenger. I cannot understand why airports and planes serve alcohol at all. Can’t people wait a few hours to get their fix?
Quote
Don’t concern yourself with yesterday, it’s past. Don’t concern yourself with the future, it may never come. Just live in the today, or you’ll miss it and it will become yesterday again.
Talk of the week
Well done!
Congratulations to all the Marlborough Special Olympics Swim Team, you certainly were outstanding and good luck for the Nationals... you certainly deserve it
Purfect
Lexie. Great story I enjoyed on the cat at our local hospice. Bring love and joy to patients in their care. What a beautiful cat. Long live Lexie!
Stadium staff
Many thanks to the Stadium teaching staff. They are amazing with our RVS children. The staff were professional, patient, kind, and encouraging to our youngsters, You guys are AWESOME!
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.
Appreciated
Could I please through your Txt talk page say thank you to the mother and daughter and one man who comforted and stayed with me till services arrived after I had a Car accident on Labour Day Monday. The accident was in Middle Renwick Rd about 6pm ish. I so appreciated their company and kind words .
Thanks
Many thanks to the kind and wonderful person who found my cell phone and left a not on my windscreen to tell me they took it to KMart on Tuesday 29th Oct. Much appreciated.
ale, aloe, are, arm, ear, earl, elm, era, lam, lame, lea, loam, lore, male, mar, mare, marl, meal, moa, molar,
If you’re looking for retirement living options in a supportive and friendly environment for over 65s, our community at Arvida Ashwood Park could be the perfect solution. Located within nearly five acres of garden estate, Ashwood Park makes the most of Blenheim’s wonderful climate with homes that capture the sunshine and views of nature. To find out more, call Toni on 027 555 6139
Latino Market/Film Festival
the annual Latino Market/Latin America and Spanish Film Festival were held at Marlborough boys’ College and Connect blenheim recently. the heart of Latin America was alive and well in blenheim with the community tasting traditional dishes and learning more about the culture.
Hot Soup Run
the Pelorus Area Health trust (PAHt) celebrated two years of their hot soup run with a donation day on Sunday, November 3 at their charity shop. the donations saw people contributing funds to keep the vital service going. 30 recipients receive the soup, a roll and a piece of cake every Friday. Photos supplied.
Marlborough Dressage Championship
the Syncroflex Marlborough Dressage Championship, held recently at the Equestrian Park in Spring Creek drew over 60 riders from across the region.
The wonderful Sue who bakes the cakes and sweet treats
Mo, Isla, Mel, and Glenda from the Pelorus Area Health Trust. Mo and Glenda make the delicious soup while Isla and Mel deliver the soup to recipients in the Havelock/Pelorus region.
Photos: Anne Gaelle
Eva Graham, overall champion in the introductory level with her trophies and on the horse Altimarloch Biggles.
Photos: Helen Buitendijk.
Mayor Nadine Taylor welcomes Chilean Ambassador Manahi Pakarati on her visit to Marlborough.
Margaret Western receiving a collection of Spanish books from Ambassador Manahi Pakarati.
Las Cuequeras wearing their traditional Chilean costumes welcoming the Chilean Ambassador.
Marlborough Multicultural Centre Chairperson Matilde Figuracion presenting a gift to the Ambassador and Consul of Chile in NZ.
Opening Ceremony Latin America and Spain Film Festival 2024 at Connect Blenheim.
I’d love to own Manchester United or the NZ Warriors, two teams I’ve been passionate about since I was a kid. Also, I’d get NASA to create some snore strips for my wife, Sam. She makes Chewbacca sound like an opera singer.
Celebrity-wise who would be at your dream dinner party?
Paul Henry, Marc Ellis, David Bain, Ricky Ponting, Lewis Capaldi, Margot Robbie.
Veggies or fruit?
Fruit – can have it with almost anything. Can be had with breakfast or dessert.
The shop you can’t walk past is...?
Farmers - I love aftershaves, I’m always in there having a sniff to see what I can add to my collection.
If you didn’t live in Marlborough where would you choose? Gold Coast or Brisbane – sunny early mornings, NRL, AFL, cricket and football, and Vegemite instead of Marmite.
Favourite programme or series currently watching?
The Morning Shift Podcast on Spotify (kiwi made daily breakfast radio style podcast you can watch) and whatever my wife’s watching as I get 30 minutes of peace.
What do you do for your own mental health?
An hour’s bath at 6am to relax for the upcoming day. I attend F45 each night and a weekly run club for mental and physical health, which is also rewarding socially. I also eat LOTS of chocolate.
What’s your favourite colour? Pink, unless it’s chicken.
If you had to choose another job what would it be?
TV or Radio Sports Broadcaster/Commentator, Gynaecologist, Real Estate Agent.
What truly matters to you?
My son Edison’s happiness and wellbeing, and that he always knows he has two parents that love him no matter what.
The best advice I ever received was?
No matter how nice the hand soap smells, don’t come out the toilet smelling your fingers.
My friends would say I am… Someone who has a big heart.
Come check out
gardening this week
Increasing tomato flavour: By Wally Richards
Recently I have been asked how to obtain the best flavour from tomatoes?
A good question, and there are many types of tomatoes each with their own characteristics and taste/flavour.
A little search with Perplexity search engine revealed the follow information: Tomatoes come in a remarkable variety of flavors, influenced by their type, color, and growing conditions.
Here’s an overview of the different flavors associated with various tomato types: Common Tomato Varieties and Their Flavours
• Roma Tomatoes: Tangy yet sweet, ideal for sauces and pastes due to their firm texture.
• San Marzano Tomatoes: Known for their sweetness and meaty texture, often used in marinara sauces.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, these bite-sized tomatoes are versatile for salads and snacking. They can vary in color, including red, yellow, and orange.
• Grape Tomatoes: Similar to cherry tomatoes but firmer, they have a sweet flavour and are great for roasting or salads.
• Heirloom Tomatoes: These come in many colors (red, yellow, purple) and are celebrated for their rich flavours and unique tastes. Varieties like Brandywine and Cherokee Purple are particularly noted for their sweetness.
• Beefsteak Tomatoes: Large and juicy with a classic tomato flavour, these are perfect for sandwiches.
• Yellow Pear Tomatoes: Sweeter than traditional red varieties, these are often enjoyed raw or roasted Flavour Profiles by Color
• Red Tomatoes: Generally sweet with a classic tomato flavour.
• Yellow Tomatoes: Often sweeter and less acidic than red varieties.
• Black and Purple Tomatoes: Typically have a richer, more complex flavour profile with earthy notes.
• Green Tomatoes: Tart and tangy, often used in frying or pickling.
Specialty Varieties
Some rare varieties also offer unique flavours:
• Cherokee Purple: A rich, sweet flavour with a hint of smokiness.
• Mortgage Lifter: Known for its sweet taste and large size
In total, there are dozens of tomato varieties, each offering distinct flavours that can enhance various culinary applications.
Whether you prefer the sweetness of cherry tomatoes or the robust flavour of heirlooms, the diversity of tomatoes provides endless possibilities for cooking and enjoyment.
So the first aspect is to choose the variety of tomato that should give you the flavour you are seeking. When not sure grow a few different types and when mature you can soon realise what ones suit your taste
buds best. Each season keep some seed harvested from this seasons crop then you will have your own seeds to grow again.
Always dry seeds to be kept on a bit of paper towel with the name of the type and the date harvested. Dry on a morning sun or late afternoon sun window sill like the kitchen one. When dry put into glass jar with lid and store in the fridge.
I have kept tomato seeds for 30 years in this way and still get a few to strike after all that time.
Many years ago (for those that have not heard this story) when I had ‘Nature Spirits Garden Centre’, a regular customer asked me one time which is the best tomato food available?
I told him that I would research and let him know. After consulting with a couple of fertilizer experts we concocted a tomato food which was a quick slow release type being in a prill form. I gave my customer a small bag of it with instructions how often to apply it.
My customer told me that he could tell the difference between the flavor of tomatoes if watered with chlorinated water or rain water. He said that the same type of tomato kept moist with rain water had a superior flavour to the same variety but watered with tap water. Later in the season my customer came back and told me that his first tomatoes were ripe and that the flavour was the best he had ever tasted. He asked what was in the tomato food that I gave him and I said sorry it’s a professional secret.
Thus getting the stamp of approval from a connoisseur tomato enthusiast, Wallys Secret Tomato Food was established as a leading tomato food for gardeners.
The compliments that we have received over the years from gardeners on how great their tomatoes are is very rewarding in itself. Having Neem Tree Powder we later incorporated that with the straight secret tomato food to help reduce insect pest problems. The labels say Wallys Secret Tomato Food with Neem Granules but as the granules are too big we use the powder (which both are exactly the same) but the powder is uniform in size and better to incorporate into the blend.
So at planting time you place a small amount of the Wallys Secret Tomato food into the planting hole and sprinkle some onto the soil’s surface. A few weeks later when you can see most of it has disappeared then apply a little more and do so till the season has finished.
A tip here: some gardeners, when they have started picking their ripe tomatoes they stop feeding the plants. Not good as if you keep them feed they will keep on supplying tomatoes till the weather goes against them and they are finishing for the season. Hardy types like Russian Red will carry on longer and still set fruit in the cooler times which summer tomato varieties will not produce pollen in the colder
weather thus the flowers don’t set fruit.
If you have tomato plants growing in a glasshouse or very sheltered but sunny position and they are flowering but not setting fruit then on a nice sunny day you need to go and tap the plants to make them vibrate.... and then they will set fruit.
Sun ripened on the plant is always going to have better flavor than fruit ripened off the plant. The reason is simple, more sugars which is carbohydrates that the plants make from sun light. Hence we should grow our tomatoes in a full or all day sunny situation. This is not always practical and now days with polluted skies that reduce the amount of sun light getting to our plants it is another problem.
This can be solved with my Liquid Sunshine recipe where you dissolve a tablespoon of molasses into a litre of hot water and then add Magic Botanic Liquid when cool. Spray this over the foliage often and it will give your plants free carbs that they do not have to produce from sunlight.
The leaves will become noticeably larger from repeat applications which means more surface area to convert what sunlight there is available.
More sugars more flavor.
Then for the supreme flavor we need to use basil in our preparations; again from Perplexity...
Adding basil to tomato dishes significantly enhances their flavor, creating a more vibrant and aromatic profile. Here are the key points regarding the impact of basil on tomato-based recipes:
Flavor Enhancement
Dynamic Flavor Combination: The combination of sweet tomatoes and aromatic basil creates a dynamic interplay of flavors, making dishes more comforting and invigorating Basil’s fresh, slightly peppery taste complements the acidity of tomatoes, balancing the overall flavor profile. Freshness and Aroma: Fresh basil adds a touch of freshness that can elevate a simple tomato sauce to a gourmet level. Its aroma becomes particularly pronounced when added towards the end of cooking or just before serving, preserving its bright flavors.
Wednesday 6 November
Stretch & Breathe: Class for Seniors. 10-11am, St Christopher’s Church Hall. $3. 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.
Thursday 7 November
Picton Poets: 4th Thursday of the month, 10.30-11.30am, Picton Library, all welcome. Phone Lyn 021 129 4342. Keep U Moving: Gentle Walking Exercise for Seniors. 11.30am12.30pm St Christopher’s Church Hall. $3. 92 Weld St. Ph 0273852333 or donna@stchristophers. co.nz
Older Persons Seminar: Every 4th Thursday of each month. Contact Donna 027 385 2333 or donna@stchristophers.co.nz
Table Tennis Summer Season: Blenheim Indoor Sports Centre run a table tennis session every Thursday, 6.30pm - 8.30pm, $6 per person to be paid at front desk.
Social Badminton Club: 9am-noon: Thursday mornings. Simcox Stadium, Battys Road. $6. All adults welcome. For more details phone Cathy 021 503 348.
Ulysses Retreads Group: 11am: Meet Brayshaw Park Thursdays. 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 please email pictonlibrary@marlborough.govt.nz.
Community Choir: Thursdays 7-9pm, during school terms. St Ninian’s Hall, 1 Riley Crescent, Redwoodtown (opp church). Come and join the community choir Creative Voice. All musical abilities and new members welcome. liz@creativekids.org.nz
Thursday Quiz Night:
Every Thursday, 6:30-8:30pm, R18+, $20. Get your team together to match wits for this weekly ritual. Categories include general knowledge, food & drink culture, music & arts, and more! Fidelio Café and Wine Bar, Blenheim Railway Station.
Picton Mahjong meets Wednesdays at Marina Cove Club Room, 53 Waikawa Road, Picton at 1pm. Phone Adrianne 02102591639 or Kaye 0211312331 for more information.
Friday 8 November
Play and Learn:
Blenheim Library, 9am-12pm. Care-giver led playbased learning for children under 5 years old based around a variety of fun themes. Books, toys, games, puzzles and activities available for use in the library. Term time only. Free and no need to register. Come along and connect with other families!
Vintage Farm Machinery:
Open daily, 10am to 3pm, Brayshaw Vintage Farm. Phone John 577 7442.
Live Music Fridays:
Every Friday 6:30-8:30pm, R18+, unless with a parent or guardian. Free. Enjoy live music with rotating musicians from the Top of the South with varying music styles and genres. Fidelio Café and Wine Bar, Blenheim Railway Station.
Saturday 9 November
Marlborough Quilters meeting:
Every 2nd Saturday of the month at Marlborough Vintage and Farm Machinery, Brayshaw Park. 10am - 4pm. Join us to 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, 10am. Depart The Runway at 10.30am.
Fidelio Café & Wine Bar:
Celebrate our first anniversary with a 1920’s inspired train ‘journey’ that captures the opulence of a bygone era of travel. With a dedicated stewardess, discover prestigious winemaking regions of the world, and taste exquisite wines paired with fine cuisine, all set in our charming and historic Blenheim Railway Station. This unique experience is only available on Saturday 9 November. Each train ‘tour’ is $50 (R18+) and limited to 10 people with ‘departure’ times of 5.30pm, 6pm, 6.30pm, or 7pm. To book https://www.trybooking. com/nz/UOU or visit our website Fidelio.co.nz
Sunday 10 November
Working Bee for Te Whanau Hou Grovetown Lagoon: Today. Working bee for tree planting, propagation and maintenance). Meet at the Wairau Rowing Club at 9.30am.
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, operating every day during school holidays. Only 20 cents per ride/yacht hire! Blenheim Bonsai Group: Islington Gardens, Rowberry Road on the 2nd Sunday of the month 1pm-3.30pm.
Marlborough Tennis Club: 3pm to 5pm, Parker Street. Every Sunday - Social Tennis. Non Members $2. All welcome. Contact number is 027 578 6436.
Ulysses Social Ride:
Sunday rides are now by WhatsApp under Marlborough Ulysses lets ride. All rides are weather dependent.
Riverside Railway, Brayshaw Park Station:
Vintage Diesel engine operating on the Beaver Line at 1.45pm along the Taylor River and the Omaka Line at 1.15 & 3.15pm. Check Details at www.riversiderailway.nz & Facebook for other information.
Monday 11 November
Target Rifle Shooting:
Summer shooting at Athletic Park range, visitors welcome, all gear provided. Riverside Club 1st and 3rd Mondays of month, 7:30pm, cost $10, contact 021667746. Blenheim Club 2nd and 4th Mondays of month, 7:30pm, cost $10, contact 02102464417.
Table Tennis Summer Season: Tua Marina 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 7.30pm at Whitney Street School Hall, Whitney Street. Come and try it! You don’t need a partner. For information ring Miriam 928 4479. Blenheim Badminton Club:
Every Monday: Juniors 5.30-7pm, seniors 7-9pm, St Mary’s Hall, corner Francis and Hudson Streets. Anna or Mike, email blenheimshuttlers@gmail.com. Whitehead Park Bowling Club, Redwoodtown: Every Monday afternoon from 12.30pm to 3pm. All welcome. Contact Mike 572 4013 or John 577 5295.
Tuesday 12 November
STEADY AS YOU GO (SAYGO):
Gentle Exercise/Balance Class for Seniors. 11.30am-12.30pm,St Christopher’s Church Hall. $3. At 92 Weld St. Ph 0273852333 donna@ stchristophers.co.nz.
Toastmasters Club:
In Blenheim meets 6.30pm every second Tuesday. Friendly group encourage shy people 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. Persistent Pain Group: Meet every Tuesday at Biddy Kates, 2 Market Street, 5pm-6pm. For people with persistent and chronic pain and their supporters. All welcome.
Picton Line Dancing: Anglican Church Hall, Wairau Road, Picton from 10.00 to 11.30am. Entry $7, beginners welcome. Enquiries to Carol 021 2125252 / Raewyn 021 715484.
Marlborough Tennis Club:
Parker Street. Every Tuesday 0830 to 12 Noon, Social Tennis. Morning Tea at 10am. Non Members $5. All Welcome. Contact number is 0275786436. Lions Club of Havelock:
Providing community service in the Pelorus area. Meeting every 3rd Tuesday at Havelock Hotel. Next meeting 19 Nov. Inquiries to Ian Cameron phone 574 2558
Tuesday Blind Wine Challenge: Every Tuesday. 11:30am to 9pm. R18+ $14. Challenge yourself to a mysterious glass of wine. Wines and questions change weekly. Great for the novice to the enthusiast! Fidelio Café and Wine Bar, Blenheim Railway Station.
Coming Up:
Nativity Spring Plant Sale: 10am-12noon on Saturday 16th November with all proceeds going to local and international missions. Cash only. A wide range of plants, seedlings and garden accessories will be available to purchase. Vines Village Monthly Market: Every third Wednesday of the month, 4:30pm to 7:30pm, September to May. Featuring the Village retail and tasting rooms, along with local Marlborough artisans. Stroll our garden village full of entertainment, local producers, and savor the delectable food and drinks on offer. Each month will have a community focus or unique theme.
Winter Indoor Craft Market: Saturday 30th November 10am-3pm Nativity Anglican Church Hall, 76 Alfred Street (Red brick Church across from Scenic Hotel). All welcome. A large variety of stalls. Please bring cash as not all stall holders will have Eftpos.
•
War
Seymour Square 11am Monday 11th November 2024
AnnuAl MAss
On Thursday 7 november at 7pm
Our annual Mass for the bereaved and their loved ones will be held at St Mary’s Catholic Church, Maxwell Road.
All who have ever suffered a bereavement are welcome to attend. You are invited to bring a flower and a photo that will be placed in front of the altar while Mass is being said. There will be a shared light supper at the conclusion of the Mass.
Local Cancer Support for Everyone
We have a range of information, classes, forum and resources to support people with cancer and their whānau.
We are not informed of every person diagnosed with cancer so encourage you to self-register for free and confidential support. Registration connects you with our local team who can help you and your whānau with free hats & turbans, temporary prosthesis, counselling, monthly support groups, welfare grants or weekly rehabilitation classes.
Get in touch with us at marlborough@cancersoc.org.nz or call 03 579 4379 for more information.
Our mission | Tāhuhu
Reducing the incidence and impact of cancer in Aotearoa, New Zealand.
Our promise | Ngā Pou
Every person every cancer.
Our Foundation | Tūāpapa
We are Te Tiriti o Waitangi led and equity-focused.
The Longest Day
It’s back! The challenge is to successfully complete a golf marathon - four rounds of golf, or 72 holes - in one day to raise funds for the Cancer Society Marlborough. 72 sound like too much? Try our new two-round ‘half marathon’ option, that’s 36 holes. You choose the day, the course, and the team - or play solo if you prefer.
Visit https://longestday.org.nz/ to sign up or find out more.
Cancer Society Marlborough, 76a Maxwell Rd, PO Box 233, Blenheim. Phone 03 579 4379
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9.00am-4:00pm
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.
UrGent services
Urgent Care Centre: Wairau Hospital Grounds. Entry off Hospital Rd, Blenheim, 8am-8pm daily. Phone (03) 520 6377.
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.
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
Death notices
OBRIEN-WINITANA: Laurel Maree.
At Hospice Marlborough, 2nd November 2024, aged 66 years. A loved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and sister. Messages to Cloudy Bay Funeral Services PO Box 9, Blenheim, 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz. According to Laurel’s wishes, a private cremation has taken place.
RODGER: Gayle Lynette (née Abernethy). At Hospice Marlborough on Wednesday 30 October, 2024, aged 62 years, Gayle – much loved wife of Graeme and mother of Grace –passed away peacefully after a lengthy battle with cancer. Much loved sister and sisterin-law of Sharon and Mel, Donna and Lyall, Andrea and Allan, Blair and Sandra, and Brent. A fun-loving Aunty to all her nieces and nephews. A kind, bubbly, nourishing teacher at Canvastown School and to many children throughout her teaching years. In lieu of flowers, the family have asked if you are able to give a small donation to Hospice Marlborough which may be made at the service or online to (Acc. 03 1369 0365207 00 Ref: Rodger). Messages to c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz A Funeral Service for Gayle will be held at the Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, 15 Boyce Street on Wednesday 6 November at 2pm followed by private cremation. Please wear colourful clothing in celebration of Gayle’s life. The service will be livestreamed and may be viewed on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services website.
WADSWORTH: Kate. Passed away peacefully at home, 31 October 2024. Dearly loved wife of the late Rowdy, much loved mother of Philippa, Matthew, and Lynley and stepmother of Bernette and the late Tania. A much-loved nana of Benjamin, Sophie, Reuben and a much-loved step-nana. In lieu of flowers a donation to Hospice Marlborough would be much appreciated. Messages to 56 Lindens Road, Mount Pleasant, RD3, Marlborough or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz. According to Kate’s wishes, a private cremation has taken place.
Stamp collections, coin collections, old toys, post cards etc. Cash paid. Ph 021 138 8949.
p enny L ane Records always buying records. Excellent prices paid. 430 Colombo Street, Sydenham, Chch. 366 3278 Open 7 days
r ecord S 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, Chch 7 days
Learn Te Reo Māori in Blenheim! Join ‘He Waka Kuaka’ workplace PLD programme. 10-week blocks, flexible hours, 1hr/week. $280+GSTpp. Visit www.tereomaori.org
TAPP: Noel Murray.
1938 - 2024. Pat and family wish to express their thanks, we are sincerely grateful to the many friends and family who have given us support and comfort during this time of loss.
RIVERS, Philip Marc.
A tear in our eyes we can wipe away, the ache in our hearts will always stay, tenderly we treasure the past, with memories that will always last. Love you and miss you, Mum and Simon.
In
Memoriam
Remember your lost loved one on their anniversary.
Lifetime achievement awards
Five people from three different sectors of the wine industry have been recognised with Wine Marlborough Lifetime Achievement Awards for 2024.
Ben and Frances Wickham, of Ormond Nurseries, Rob Agnew, climate scientist, and Daniel and Adele Le Brun of No.1 Estate were all acknowledged with their awards at the Marlborough Wine Show Celebration Long Lunch, held recently.
Wine Marlborough Ltd General Manager Marcus Pickens says the Wine Marlborough Lifetime Achievement Award was introduced in 2007 to recognise the work of the many people who have worked hard to make the industry what it is today.
“It’s no secret that Marlborough is home to many winemakers and winegrowers who have been working hard at their craft for some decades now. Alongside them, we have experts in many areas, including the likes of our scientists and horticulturists who have helped along the way, and continue to do so,” he says.
“Many of them have been involved from near the beginnings of our industry, creating a blueprint for others to follow when it comes to creating the optimal environment for growing and making wine.”
For Rob Agnew, this has involved recording and interpreting meteorological data for the Marlborough region, providing a wealth of information to local winegrowers to help them with making the best decisions in the vineyard based on detailed weather analysis for each season. Rob has been doing this for more than three decades, during which time he has been the Editor of The Met Report, a detailed monthly weather summary included in each month’s Winepress Magazine – for almost every issue since 1992. He was the glue behind VineFacts and its predecessor VineFax, long term Chair of the NMIT Viticulture Advisory Committee, and Plant and Food Research Scientist. In 2022, Rob was recognised with the MRC Award for his contribution to the MRC Campus. Meanwhile, Ben and Frances Wickham have led the way when it comes to grape propagation in Marlborough, relocating Ormond Nurseries here in 1995, following 18 years doing the same work in Gisborne. The couple has continued to innovate, establishing a vertically integrated nursery facility capable of producing two million vines a year, designed to assist with strict biosecurity protocols.
Ben and Frances Wickham of Ormond Nurseries and Daniel and Adele Le Brun of No 1 Estate were acknowledged with their awards at the Marlborough Wine Show Celebration Long Lunch, held recently.
The couple is a powerful duo, with Ben the 50-year nursery man and Frances the business instincts.
Daniel and Adele Le Brun have been pioneers in quality Marlborough sparkling wine, identifying qualities in Marlborough that would enable them to produce world-class sparkling
wines with classic varieties Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir. The couple were involved with the inception of Mèthode Marlborough, a grower-led collective established to champion bottle-fermented sparkling wine within the region.
They were among the first
growers to develop a vineyard in close planting, and created one of the first underground caves, to be used to slowly mature their wine, in the region.
Previous recipients of the Lifetime Achievement Award have imcluded Jane Hunter (2016), Dr John Forest (2019) and Allan Scott (2022).
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.
Kaha Basketball –brotherhood, values
There’s a beautiful culture of values emerging within Marlborough Basketball personnel or more specifically, the Kaha Basketball Academy. As Chris Valli discovers it’s what’s happening off the court that is leaving a connection/ hononga.
Basketball - in Te Reo – poitūkohu – is a simple game. Two teams of five players where the objective is to shoot the ball through a netted hoop at opposite ends of the court. Cue Kaha Basketball. A kaupapa in the Marlborough region, offering opportunities for elite ballers.
At the recent SAS Australasian Slam basketball tournament held in Auckland (October 26 – 28), such an opportunity saw the Under 18 boys taking out first place (Elite A Grade) while the Under 16 girls finished a credible second place in the B Grade. Meanwhile, the Under 16 Boys A squad took fifth place and the Under 16 Development, also won fifth place.
Winning is a lot more than what is on the scoreboard. Sport and in this case Kaha Basketball is developing and representing brotherhood, values.
“We want to bring the best out of our players on and off the court,” says Club Captain Aimee Materoa. “Our kaupapa is to sup-
port the development of rangatahi residing in Wairau (Marlborough) as athletes, and people; providing more access to opportunities in basketball; while developing connected involved leaders for our future. We want our rangatahi to have control over their own destiny (mana motuhake); choose where they want to go in life (tino rangatiratanga); and know that they can be anything they want it to be.”
The values are built on team before self, resilience, respect and courage. Kaha is a collective of basketballers from the Top of the South including some players from Christchurch. 80 percent of them are from Marlborough and anyone with a connection to Marlborough is welcome to trial.
The Māori word kaha means “to be strong, able, capable, courageous, intense, or energetic”. It can also be used as a verb to mean “to be loud”. Aimee says the term kaha was implemented by the team which travelled to the United States last year.
The vision for the Kaha concept came from Danielle Blackmore and Aimee where after having an “incredible team” with the Marlborough under 15 team in 2022 and winning Canterbury Mainlands (who are still involved
now), the idea of a trip to the birthplace of basketball came to fruition.
“We wanted this team to go to HoopNation (in Tauranga) then adding up the cost it made more sense to take them to the USA for a trip of a life time as well. So emails were sent that night and the team was formed, with Leo Wiapo as coach. Leo, said at the start if this is happening then we must have values, so he conducted a two hour session in the classroom with the 10 boys to come up with our values.”
After various fundraising and working all summer, they landed in Los Angeles in April 2023. The trip was a huge success with the team coming second in the Grassroots tournament. Aimee says with incredible community and parent support, a committee was formed.
She adds they were “very lucky” to have Sam Quinn nominated in as our President and the Kaha Basketball Academy was born.
“There is ALOT of talent in the Wairau region, this gives kids opportunities to stay in Marlborough,” says Aimee.
Kaha has achieved the following in two years including; the SAS tournaments, Auckland 2023, Under 18’s Elite Boys taking
silver, Under 16s Elite Boys fifth out of 24 teams, and a visit to Japan with two teams represented in the recent Term three holidays.
The feedback from the players is ‘the kaha culture provides’ friendship, strangers to brothers, bonding, teamwork and leadership for when they enter ‘adult life’.
As for funding, to attend various competitions and tournaments, Kaha squads are encouraged to work first including a Kaha Job Squad. However, Kaha still requires financial support and Aimee says
Mellissa and Windermere J’Obei part ways
By Diana Dobson
Blenheim’s Melissa Galloway has sold her beloved Windermere J’Obei W to a rising young star in Germany.
It was never the plan but as the Marlborough record-breaker says, “it’s crazy how things just seem to fall into place. The plan was always to bring Joey home after the Games . . . I never really thought I would sell him.”
The 14-year-old New Zealand warmblood gelding – by Johnson TN out of the thoroughbred mare Miss Pompeii who is by Pompeii – duly went into quarantine in preparation for his trip and Melissa began her journey home. But a week or so later she got a phone call to say that Joey would need to stay six months instead of three because he had been in Saudi for the FEI World Cup Dressage Final earlier this year.
“I was so stressed. They had to take him out of quarantine and put him in a facility down the road,” says Melissa. “After a week or so they rang and said he really needed to go somewhere he could be lightly ridden given how long he was going to have to stay.”
Melissa turned to her longtime coach Andrea Raves for help and she suggested Hubertus Hufendiek who lived nearby.
“I had based and trained with him 12 years ago when I spent a year in Germany. He’s
not riding at the moment but his partner is a beautiful rider, so I called them and that’s where he went.”
Then came the call from Hubertus who said he had a talented and ambitious young rider who was looking for a horse just like Joey to pursue her dreams in the under 25 grand prix.
“She tried him and it went ridiculously well. It seems to be the perfect fit. I wouldn’t have been able to do it if it wasn’t.”
The pair dominated on both sides of the Tasman, twice winning the New Zealand grand prix title, the Dressage Horse of the Year crown, the Australian national grand prix, and the Sydney CDI. They own the New Zealand records for grand prix (74.2 percent) and musical freestyle (79.865 percent).
“It was always my goal to achieve the big three - to compete at the World Championships, World Cup Final, and the Olympic Games. There have been so many highlights along the way – of course the Games are the absolute pinnacle but there are small things too like rides I have had at home when I have come out of the arena almost in tears because he has gone so well,” says Melissa.
“It is still very emotional for me, especially when I think about what he has done for us all. He has done so much for my career and I hope he can help his new rider achieve
OF AN ERA: Blenheim’s Melissa Galloway and Windermere J’Obei W.
plan was always to bring Joey home after the Games. I never really thought I would sell him,” she says. Photo: Libby Law Photography
But she feels the sale opens an exciting new chapter and she is already planning trips to visit.
the Marlborough community are right behind them and they are “extremely grateful”. Sponsorship in 2024 has come from 16 businesses while founding sponsors include: RSM Construction, Bayleys Marlborough and Blackmore Fencing. The platinum sponsors this year have been Crafar and Crouch and Churchill Trust.
Aimee is adamant, the more basketball there is in Marlborough, the more value this adds to the region. “Our hash tag sums up everything - run as one #runasone,” she says.
Golf Results
Sat 19 Oct Nett-Tony Calvert 66;Ant Booker 67;Jelle Keizer 68;Vicki Eastgate 70;Phil Hawke 71;Jeff Pascoe 71,Ian Molloy 72;Jerome January 73. Thurs 24 Oct S/F-Mike Ashworth 40;Andrew Sunley 39;Brian Carver 37,Alister Baxter 37;Murray Selwyn 36,Ian Johnson 36;Jelle Keizer 34,Ron Peters 34.
Mon 21st Oct: 9 Hole Stableford Ladies: Bernice Arnold 20, Jenny Adams 20, Jenny Evans 18, Dawn Walker 18, Anne Newman 17, Helen Neame 17, Elaine Brown 17, Vicki Lane 16, Shirley Godsiff 15. Men: Hay Montgomery 20, Leo McKendry 20, Blue Arthur 20, Graeme Parker 19, Dave Dyer 19, Don March 19, Clarry Neame 19, Brian Brown 19, Mike McConnell 18, Dan Crawford 18, Don Lamond 18, Ross Agnew 18, Grant Flynn 18. Wed 23rd Oct:Ladies Closing Day: Div 1(0-27): Vicki Lane 37, Elaine Brown 37, Kaye Keys 34, Anne Newman 33. Div 2: Jenny Adams 39, Ida Beets-Huchshorn 38, Colleen McLeod 36. 9 Holes: Jill Hurcomb 19.
Thur 24th:Men Stableford: Graeme Parker 40, Alan Gibbons 37, Karan Shahi 37, Clive Drummond 36, Ray Meaclem 36, Murray Ingram 35, Stuart McLagan 35, Doug Shaw 35, Ray Herd 34, Andrew Stowell 34, Nigel Smith 34, Buck Asplet 34. 9 Holes: Mike McConnell 21, Ian Hatcher 18, Dave Dyer 18.
END
“The
Blenheim Golf Club
Picton Golf Club
VALUES 101: The under 18 Kaha basketball team took out first place at the recent SAS Australasian Slam basketball tournament held in Auckland. Back row: Matt Manu, Te Ariki Hook, Brodie Materoa, George Goldfinch, Malachi Manu, Tyson Foote, Leon Wightwick and Sam Quinn. Front row: Malakai Riwaka, Clarke Vitale, TOIA Aki Collins and Ryan Quinn.
her dreams. There have certainly been a lot of tears shed.”
