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Marlborough Academy of Dance (MAD) students Rapunzel (Mya Blackmore) and Pascal the Chameleon (Charlotte Palmer) with preschool dancers Frankie Palmer and Cameron Bishell. The dancers are performing in Rapunzel
Tangled Tale and is at the ASB Theatre November 22- 24. Photo: Chris Valli.
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Reved up over fees
By Chris Valli
Local motorcyclists are far from happy with a proposal from the Accident Compensation Corporation to increase registration fees and levies.
180 motorcycle riders from Marlborough and Nelson held a protest ride recently starting at Seymour Square and riding out to the Woodbourne Tavern in Renwick.
The proposed cost of licensing a motorcycle over 600cc will increase from $252.69 to $426.92. This, combined with registration fees and petrol tax, meant that motorcyclists could pay around $522.34 a year to keep their bikes on the road.
Marlborough Chapter of the Triumph Riders Motorcycle Club
President Phil Stuart says the proposed increases are simply not fair because the statistics ACC rely on are skewed and do not paint a true picture of the causes of many motorcycle accidents.
Phil says many single motorcycle accidents can be the result of mechanical failure (which has happened to their members) or more concerning the poor maintenance of the roads which has resulted in members of their Club having an accident due to potholes and the practice of not sweeping gravel off roads after maintenance.
“New Zealand roads are not motorcycle friendly, they are built for cars and trucks. This is illustrated by NZTA’s own admission by such actions as spending $2.5 million making the Coromandel Loop more motorcycle friendly.
ACC deputy chief executive corporate and finance Stewart McRobie says the levies for motorcycles have not increased since 2014. Injuries to motorcyclists will cost ACC around $439 million over the next three years Stewart says.
While motorcycles make up four percent of the vehicle fleet this he says, is 25 percent of the cost to ACC of injuries from road crashes.
“Motorcycle owners currently pay 28 percent of the total cost to support people recovering from motorcycle accidents. The remaining 72 percent is subsidised by other vehicle owners,” he says.
“ACC has heard from owners of other vehicles that motorcyclists should contribute more towards the cost of injuries.
Data collected by New Zealand Police when they attend crashes shows that 37 percent of injury
claims from motorcyclists arise from attended single vehicle accidents (no other vehicle involved) where the motorcyclist’s actions contributed to the crash.
Stewart says the proposed change aligns the proportion of levy contribution from motorcyclists to the proportion of motorcycle crashes that only involved the motorcyclist (single vehicle crashes).
“So, while we’re proposing an increase to the levy for motorcyclists, this is still far below the actual costs of claims. To keep things fair, ACC is proposing to increase the amount motorcycle riders contribute to better reflect the risk. Accidents involving motorcycles often result in more severe injuries, which are costly to treat,” he says.
The ACC reviews levies every three years and propose changes to ensure they have enough money to
cover the cost of injuries”and that the system is fair for levy payers.
“We consulted with the public on the proposed changes in September and October. We are now reviewing the feedback and submissions to make our recommendations,” says Stewart.
Phil says he sees people on electric scooters and power assisted cycles travelling on urban roads at speeds similar to those set for other urban road users. They and cyclists pay nothing in terms of an ACC road levy, he says. “ACC’s plans to increase the levy for motorcyclists ignore the wider benefits motorcycles have in terms of reducing congestion for commuters and vehicle emissions.”
Minister for ACC Matt Doocey and cabinet will consider the recommendations and announce their decision in December.
Bob Barnes | Barry Holmwood | Ethan Williams | Terry Ryan
LEFT: Marlborough Chapter of the Triumph Riders Motorcycle Club spokesperson Shane Parnell with riders out at the Pelorus Tavern recently. Photo: supplied.
COLLECTIVE PROTEST: 180 motorcycle riders from Marlborough and Nelson held a protest ride starting at Seymour Square, riding out to the Woodbourne Tavern.
50 years of Probus
By Chris Valli
The power of connection and a cuppa was never better exemplified than last week with members of the Blenheim Probus Club celebrating 50 years of Probus New Zealand.
Probus is a not-for-profit organisation with a philosophy of friendship and fun. That philosophy saw a morning tea at Lansdowne Park with a celebratory cake being cut. Mayor Nadine Taylor was also in attendance and there was no shortage of quality fare on the tables for members.
The first Probus Club was
formed 50 years ago by Rotary in the UK while the Kapiti Coast was the first club formed in New Zealand on November 4, 1974.
Probus Blenheim celebrated their 30th anniversary lunch in October, 2022. The 2024 Blenheim membership currently stands at 105.
The name PROBUS comes from the word ‘pro’ in professional and the ‘bus’ in business. Initially the club was for those who had retired from their professional careers but today it encompasses more with membership open to anyone retired or semi-retired and seeking connection to make friends in their local community.
Probus clubs hold monthly meetings with guest and club speakers. Member Elaine Warner says recently they had Marlborough District Council Solid Waste Manager Mark Lucas talk about his role which Elaine says was ‘very interesting indeed’. There are also outings, coffee mornings, lunches and dinners. One such outing was the Blenheim Club getting the opportunity to visit a cruise ship in Picton.
According to Aging Well (a team of researchers and scientists), approximately 10 percent of people over the age of 65 are lonely all or most of the time, and
this rises to 50 percent amongst those over 80. In the most serious cases, one in five frail adults is chronically lonely.
Committee member Carol Davies says Probus on a whole is about being inclusive for all its members, locally and nationally. Fellow member Robin Jones Greif agrees and says Probus provides not only the social interaction but dialogue with like-minded people.
“It’s very easy for older people to just get isolated once their own children have grown up or they have retired or lost a spouse,” she says. “Probus provides the opportunity to connect.”
Sometime between the 17th and 19th of October, a number of unique birds including Gouldian and Zebra Finches, as well as Dutch Love Birds, were stolen from an aviary in the Seddon area. If anyone has information in relation to these birds, please ring 105 and quote the file number 241027/3578 or contact Snr Constable Tim Goodyer at the Blenheim Police Station.
Rabbit numbers drop
A night count of rabbits on the Taylor River Reserve has shown a significant drop in numbers following September’s poisoning operation, using pindone, an anticoagulant in bait form.
Only 22 rabbits were seen within a 10 kilometre range and the area is now compliant with Marlborough’s Regional Pest Management Plan rules. Last year rabbit counts showed the population to be around 139 while at its peak, in 2021, numbers were up to 220.
Council’s Parks and Open Spaces team targeted two key areas during the cull – a 49-hectare block running from Doctors Creek through to the boundary of the lifestyle block area on Waters Avenue, and a 21-hectare block from Wither Road extension to Richardson Avenue.
Drivers can look forward to easier and safer travels once road reconstruction work on State Highway 6 near Canvastown is wrapped up. Contractors will be on the job near Canvastown for four weeks beginning Monday, 11 November. The work will continue through to Friday, 6 December. The work is part of the $147 million 2024/27 National Land Transport Programme investment in state highways across the top of the South Island.
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FUN AND FRIENDSHIP: Christine Hipkins, Ann Soal and Elaine Warner enjoying a few laughs and a cuppa at Lansdowne Park last Wednesday morning as part of the Golden Anniversary of Probus New Zealand. Photo: Chris Valli.
The
Weed control workshops
The New Zealand Landcare Trust has the following workshops coming up: WARD - 18 Nov, 9:30am-12:30pm 156 Ure Rd and site visit to Ure Quarry. HAVELOCK - 29 Nov, 9:30am-12:30pm Havelock Pavilion and site visit to Long Valley Rd.
Speakers include Ben Minehan from Weed Solutions Ltd and MDC planners. Registrations are essential as minimum numbers are required for these to go ahead.
Blenheim Sun readers can register at www.landcare.org.nz/events-calendar
Record number learn CPR
Over 35,000 more people now have the life-saving skills to help someone suffering from a cardiac arrest thanks to recording breaking St John’s Shocktober CPR awareness campaign.
The campaign is the most successful ever since its inception three years ago and throughout the month of October over 80 educators delivered life-saving sessions in 72 towns and cities across the country.
Cardiac arrest is still one of New Zealand’s biggest killers. Seven people a day are treated for an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest - that’s more than 2,000 per year with males dominating the gender statistics by 68 percent compared to 32 percent female.
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Locals loved Eddie’s gratitude and emotion
By Chris Valli
While Marlburians and those from others parts of the country made their way to Garden Marlborough and the A&P Show at the weekend, for two Blenheim locals a long awaited concert in Auckland certainly made them feel ‘alive’.
Marlborough Lines employees Jo and Jeremy Anderson, joined thousands of die-hard fans, young and old, to see Pearl Jam play at Auckland’s Mt Smart Stadium (Go Media) on Friday night, 10 years after they last appeared in New Zealand headlining the Big Day Out at Auckland’s Western Springs in 2014.
The band formed in Seattle, Washington in 1990 and the 2024 version consists of founding members Jeff Ament, Stone Gossard, Mike McCready and Eddie Vedder, along with Matt Cameron who joined in 1998. The Auckland concerts (including Sunday night) were the first in a string of New Zealand and Australian tour dates, following a North American tour, for their latest album Dark Matter.
The gig certainly mattered to Jo and Jeremy with the couple being Pearl Jam fans since they were in their teens. Frontman Eddie
Vedder weaved in his love for New Zealand, during an idyllic and joyful two-hour set that reaffirmed the seminal grunge act is as authentic and powerful as ever.
Jo (40) works in customer service for Marlborough Lines while Jeremy (43) is a storeman for the electricity company.
“The highlight for me was that after seeing them in 2009 they still sound amazing, and have the same energy from when they started out. I love how much gratitude and emotion Eddie showed us all, and I was stoked to hear him play Just Breathe solo, it’s one of my favourites from them,” she says.
The tens of thousands that swarmed the stadium on Friday soaked up the ferocity, gratitude and infectious energy the band threw their way. And the filled stadium immediately threw it back in spades.
‘Even Flow’ had the entire seated area to their feet, and the trend continued for crowd favourites like ‘Daughter’, ‘Jeremy’ and ‘Not for You’.
Like a fine Marlborough wine, Pearl Jam Jo says, just keeps on getting better, notwithstanding when the Seattle band paid homage to the spiritual owners of
the ground they played at (NZ Warriors) with Vedder proclaiming ‘up the Wahs’.
Jeremy was born in Blenheim and Jo moved when to Marlborough when she was 12. For Jeremy, the highlight was the overall set list saying the majority of songs were the ones he wanted to see.
With the stadium lights coming up and thousands on their feet including Jo and Jeremy, a deafening noise and raised arms were in unison for ‘Alive. The clear, awe-inspiring view of two Marlburians embracing a moment they’ll remember forever remained as the show closed with Neil Young’s ‘Rockin’ in the Free World’.
“Overall Jeremy was just amped to be there in the moment and
appreciate how funny and down to earth Eddie is,” says Jo. “It was so awesome to be a part of such an exceptional show, the way the crowd sang along, especially for Alive, it was just a great experience all round.”
FEELING ALIVE FOR PEARL JAM: Marlborough Lines employees Jo and Jeremy Anderson were at the long-awaited Pearl Jam concert at Go Media Stadium in Auckland night. INSET: Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder.
Wairau Valley fair
By Chris Valli
If Marlborough locals are looking for something to do on the weekend of Sunday, November 24, look no further than the Wairau Valley townships village fair.
Running from 11am to 3pm, the fair will take place at Wairau Valley Golf Club, located at the end of Morse Street.
“It will be a fun day for all the family with bouncy castles, food vendors, face painting, live music, competitions, stalls selling arts, crafts and much more,” says Jenny Somerville who is on the organising committee.
Jenny encourages Blenheim Sun readers to browse the stalls which will include various local artists using different media, soaps, Christmas decorations, pine nuts, dolls, dolls clothes, 3D printed children’s toys, jewellery, plants, farm vehicles and equipment, health products and more.
Featuring on the day is live music from Ellie Brooke, the Silver Beats, Castaways Ukelele Band and the Blenheim and Districts Highland Pipe Band.
For those who enjoy a bit more action, watch a Tai Chi or wood chopping demonstration or have a go at darts, golf
putting or axe throwing (adults only) competitions.
Jenny says the more artistic may like to make a macramé bracelet, try acrylic paint pouring or enter one of the colouring competitions.
“Children will be able to enjoy two bouncy castles, have their faces painted, and have a go at some activities hosted by the Wairau Valley Fire Brigade including the opportunity to dress up, spray water around like a fireman and have a ride in the fire engine,” she says.
Fire and Emergency NZ will also bring along their Community Hub. This purpose-built caravan was gifted to the Marlborough region earlier this year and is designed for use as a community information and support hub during natural disasters.
The Wairau Valley Village Fair 2024 has a Facebook page for profiles of stall holders and entertainment, and readers can find copies of their colouring competitions on the page. Hard copies can be picked up from New World Blenheim.
Generous prizes for the colouring competitions are being sponsored by Seymour Art Supplies, New World Blenheim and local artist Tamara Jansen.
The wet weather postponement date will be December 1
Enter the Wairau Valley Village Fair colouring competition and be in to win a New World gift hamper. Includes child and adult (13+) section. Get colouring and take your entry along to the Village Fair, Sunday 24th November 11am-3pm. Pictured is New World employee Terri-Lee Shirley.
and will be notified on relevant Facebook pages and advertising.
The organising committee is grateful for funding support from Marlborough District Council and
NZEI complaint re legislation
New Zealand’s largest education union, NZEI Te Riu Roa, says the Government’s new charter school legislation violates international labour laws and teachers’ work rights.
The union has laid a complaint with the International Labour Organisation.
Stephanie Mills, National Secretary of NZEI Te Riu Roa, says the new legislation prioritises profit-making over children’s education and teachers’ work rights.
“We fundamentally oppose this privatisation of public education because we, alongside most New Zealanders, believe that public investment and government effort needs to prioritise building a quality public education system that benefits all mokopuna in Aotearoa.”
Scam Awareness meeting
Renwick Elder Care Ministries, New Zealand Police and the ASB Bank Blenheim are holding an education seminar on how to spot online scammers.
The seminar, which is open to all ages, is at the Renwick Anglican Church Hall at 54 High Street on Thursday, November 28 at 11am.
If Blenheim Sun readers would like to stay on for a light lunch, contact Maria on 0274 782 328.
generous contributions and support from Imagine Signs, Seymour Art Supplies, New World Blenheim, Jamie Timms, WV Fire Brigade and FENZ.
What role or character are you playing in the Marlborough Academy of Dance production, Rapunzel – A Tangled Tale?
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Dear
Recently, MDC has been soliciting the business community and others as to whether Destination Marlborough is no longer fit for purpose.
It has done this in a most expensive manner, via, what can only be described as a junket, of two current councillors and a past councillor, Trevor Hook and general Destination Marlborough Tracy Johnson, at which only a handful of participants attended the Picton session.
I say junket, as why was it deemed necessary to send out four individuals, none of whom have any marketing skills, let alone qualifications and at what cost?
The short answer is yes, it should be folded and
Demise of Destination Marlborough Tree-huggers, Onamalutu
Dear Ed
Chris Valli’s story Angels and Nature inspired me to write about another gem, Onamalutu Forest reserve in the Richmond Range.
Protected by DOC, Onamalutu is the last prime podocarp woodland in Marlborough. Podocarps include Rimu, Miru, Matai, Totara, and the majestic Kahikatea. The Onamalutu river flows through the reserve to the Wairau with a picnic area, campground and toilets.
I once saw a group of children playing in the campground. After asking the parents I said to the group, “Have you ever hugged a podocarp tree?” Shaking their heads, the children followed me to a 50-metre-high Rimu tree. They held hands at the base of the tree, and it took eight
Katrina Lange, the person responsible for getting existing MDC events up and running should have her annual budget doubled to $250,000 to not only continue with such, but also to create new events over quieter periods. Something that Destination Marlborough has never done. There are so many missed opportunities, over the years, to grow our event calendar and promote it more to out of the district. Over the hill attendees, such as the Nelson/Tasman area does. The answer is definitely not to cancel it and bring back Tracy Johnson or Trevor Hook, as seems to be the suggestion.
Chris Davies Picton
children plus one parent to join up around the trunk. While they hugged the tree, questions came thick and fast: Why did it grow so big? What’s the difference between a Rimu and a Totara? Are they all podocarps? What does podocarp mean? Is the Kahikatea the biggest tree? I was out of my depth. I told the children that the tree they were hugging started growing before their great-great-great-nan and greatgreat-great-grandad were born.
Then came the dreaded question: “Where did all the other trees go?” It was a simple question that I could not answer. “No idea,” I said. “But we must look after the trees that are left.”
Evan Robinson Redwoodtown
Sophie Popham Blenheim
I’m playing the role of a palace guard, helping to protect Rapunzel and the castle
Jessica Douthett Blenheim
Mother Gothel – she is like the evil character who keeps Rapunzel for herself.
Icey Bradley-Kiwi Blenheim
playing the Queen – the mother to Rapunzel.
Fili Fotu-Moala Blenheim
am playing Rapunzel’s Dad, the King.
Ayla Shaw Blenheim
I am playing Flynn Rider, a bit of mischief maker.
Mya Blackmore Blenheim
I’m playing the lead, Rapunzel. It’s such a fun character.
Chlorination plans on track
Design has begun for chlorinating Blenheim’s water supply.
National water regulator Taumata Arowai requires a residual disinfectant, typically provided by chlorine, to be added to water supplies by 31 December this year. That deadline won’t be met, but systems should be in place by mid-2025.
Council’s Planning and Development Engineer Stuart Donaldson said Taumata Arowai had reinforced the need for Blenheim’s water supply to be chlorinated to ensure it met the Water Services Act and the Drinking Water Quality Assurance Rules.
While Blenheim’s water, which delivers water to 10,700 households, is currently treated for protozoa and bacteria, there is no chlorine dosing.
Taumata Arowai has outlined that the Water Services Act 2021 requires suppliers to use a multibarrier approach to managing
risks to protect drinking water from contamination.
Mr Donaldson said a permanent chlorination plant would be built, for which design was already underway.
Chlorine is a safe, simple and inexpensive way to disinfect drinking water, capable of killing most common bacteria including campylobacter and norovirus. It’s generally used alongside other processes such as protozoa barriers which remove or inactivate single-celled parasites such as cryptosporidium and giardia.
Supplies in Renwick, Picton, Havelock, Wairau Valley, Seddon and Rural Awatere are chlorinated.
Budget has been set aside in Council’s Long Term Plan for chlorinating the supply.
For more information, see the frequently asked questions on Council’s website at: links. marlborough.govt.nz/ChlorinationFAQs
Renwick’s new water treatment plant which became operational in June already supplies treated chlorinated water to all properties in urban Renwick
Making cycle safety more visible
Council’s Multi Modal Advisor Charlotte Campbell-Lamerton ran a competition this winter for local cyclists to win a maintenance stand for their bikes. Competitors had to submit photographs of themselves clad in high-visibility gear to promote safe cycling during the winter months.
The winners were mother and son Karen and Oscar Savage (pictured). Councillor Brian Dawson, chair of Council’s Assets and Services Committee (on left) presented
National water reform work ramps up
Work is underway on one of the most significant reforms faced by councils around New Zealand in recent times – Central Government’s Local Water Done Well legislation.
At a recent meeting of full Council, the mayor and councillors gave approval for staff to work with neighbouring Tasman and Buller District Councils to investigate water service delivery options. This work will allow each council to make the decision on whether to combine resources into a single water entity or to go it alone as individual councils. Nelson City Council has already voted to go it alone under their existing service model.
The new water services delivery and infrastructure model replaces the previous government’s Three Waters legislation and, as part of the reforms, a Water Services Delivery Plan must be provided to the Department of Internal Affairs by September next year. The 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.
Mayor Nadine Taylor said this was a significant piece of work which every council around the country was having
the pair and husband/father Alistair (right) with their new bike stand. Alistair entered them in the competition and carries out the family’s bike maintenance.
“It’s great to see a family such as this taking advantage of using their bikes to get around and doing it safely. This coming summer we want to see more people out on bikes as we start to trial new cycling initiatives and high vis is always recommended to be safe and to be seen,” Charlotte said.
to deal with. “Today sets our roadmap forward but it is of course not the final decision,” she said.
Local Water Done Well will be implemented in three stages each with its own piece of legislation. Plans are required for all three waters networks - water, wastewater and stormwater.
Chief Financial Officer Geoff Blake said Council had $545,000 in existing budgets to put towards the preparatory planning work required, including $295,000 from unspent Three Waters funding and $240,000 relocated from Government’s Better Off funding. “We will need to consult with our community on the future structure of water service delivery for Marlborough in July next year. This work will require resources and expertise,” he said.
“One of the key messages we are getting is that scale brings benefits. It is yet to be proven that this would be the case for Marlborough, but it will form part of our investigation and assessment,” Mr Blake said.
High level options following the scoping exercise with benefits and costs will be presented to Council’s Assets and Services Committee at the end of January 2025 and regular updates on progress will be provided.
It could happen to anyone
On October 21, Theresa Moore received a phone call to her landline, around 10am. The person informed her he was from the ANZ fraud team saying she had been hacked with two transactions made on her account through Visa, one to iTunes and the other to Amazon. Chris Valli takes up the story.
Blenheim’s Theresa Moore says “it’s been a hell of a month” and just wants to move on.
According to banking ombudsman Nicola Sladden, the number of banking scams is accelerating at a worrying rate. Sophisticated scams are a key factor behind a 43 percent rise in the number of customer complaints, she says. One third of those complaints formally investigated by the office of the ombudsman were about scams, with an average loss of $57,000 and costing New Zealanders more than $200 million a year. It’s now cost Theresa, $26,000. The 62-year-old says her memory was a bit foggy from the moment when the caller said the amounts while needing to make her account safe and find out what had happened.
“He said I needed to download an app from (Google) Playstore which would enable him to work through the account. He asked many questions about who I usually pay out of my account, who paid into it, stating what showed on my bank statement which made it feel really authentic,” she recalls.
Theresa says at that stage, she was a little concerned what was going on. “He replied, if I look at the app at the top of the page it clearly shows the ANZ fraud services app, so you know you’re dealing with the bank. He said it was going to take a few hours because he was in Auckland, to work on my phone to stop the scammers getting any more funds.”
After about 30 minutes talking to him he asked her to place her phone
on the table and leave it and he would call her back on the cell phone, if he needed something else.
“He continued to ask questions about the accounts and also said I needed to answer a text and put yes. I said I should be putting no to that and he said no I need you to put yes otherwise I can’t stop him from taking it, adding he needed to be able to get in there.”
“If you put no it will disappear,” he said.
“They
opened up my account and told me all the balances were sitting near zero.”
Theresa says they spent hours flipping backwards and forwards through the account and says she assumed he was fixing things he was seeing.
“Then he asked, what about your BNZ? I said I had three accounts there. He said we should go in and secure the money. When I logged in he told me I needed to send the funds in both of those accounts to my ANZ account so he could work on making it safe and making sure no one could get the money from BNZ. He then said that the hackers can easily get into a term deposit so I needed to break it and get it somewhere safe.”
However, Theresa told him that she
was aware you can’t break a term investment. He replied, “make up a story that’s really good and tell them you need it today.”
“Then he said don’t tell them I’m on the line from ANZ fraud. So I left him hanging on the landline while I made a second call to BNZ saying I needed the money. I made what sounded like an urgent distress situation and I needed to move now and needed a deposit. I’m actually not sure if I made two or three calls to BNZ because the caller was adamant the money was at risk.”
“BNZ froze my account. I told them I had someone on the line and I believed they could have been listening to my call, and I said I’m in a situation where I needed the money to be safe.”
Meanwhile, she went back to her landline and said she couldn’t get the money. The scammer said “don’t go yet, I’ll tell you when you can go.” Theresa placed her cell phone and landline (so she could hear on the speakerphone) on the table and speed to the Blenheim branch of ANZ in Market Street to talk to someone knowing the BNZ was frozen as ANZ was now her priority.
“They opened up my account and told me all the balances were sitting near zero. After fulfilling what was required at ANZ I went to BNZ to report what had happened then I went to the police station to lay a complaint.”
On returning home after 5pm, her husband Tom informed her the scammer had rung back and asked
Blenheim’s Theresa Moore was recently scammed with $26,000 taken from her ANZ account. She says while on her landline, the scammer said “don’t go yet”, I’ll tell you when you can go.”
for Theresa. Tom kindly told the scammer she was at the bank and with the police, and the guy hung up.
“The next morning I was astounded to find the guy rang back again and asked why I didn’t get back to him after I went to the BNZ whereby I replied, you really think I’m that stupid, after what you did yesterday, you f......b.....you emptied all my bank accounts, go and dig a big hole and bury yourself, and then I hung up.”
Theresa went into the bank with Tom and froze his account to
make it safe. “He put $4,810 from his account onto my visa account to save any added expense on my Visa card, he also left the joint account frozen in his banking, to secure any further breaches as we presumed we were not to close it while things we’re under investigation,” she says.
Theresa says she feels like just another ordinary citizen with no computer skills.
“I had absolutely no idea he could do this and he could watch me on my phone,” she says. “This has been a tremendous strain on me and my partner.”
Providing quality care and education for children aged 3 months - 5 years, Omaka is a space for children to grow, explore and flourish as unique individuals, through a child-led, nature play based environment, where children are given the wings to fly.
Air cadet forces compete
By Chris Valli
The New Zealand Cadet Forces held the annual Air Cadet Skills competition, bringing together top cadets from across the country over Marlborough Anniversary weekend.
The National Aviation Skills competition was held at RNZAF Base Woodbourne, with support from NZCF and NZDF officers and cadets from around the country.
Competing in this year’s event were teams from No. 11 (Hastings), No. 17 (City of Christchurch), and No. 30 (Hobsonville) Squadrons of the Air Training Corps, each having secured their spot by winning regional area competitions. The 2024 competition was intense as all three teams had faced off in
last year’s national event, raising the stakes for this year’s rematch.
The event featured 15 challenging stations, each designed to push cadets to their limits and assess skills acquired through the Air Cadets national training syllabus.
Cadets were tested on Teamwork and Communication, Aircraft Identification, Marching and Drill Formations, Firearms Safety and Marksmanship, Medical Evacuations, Initiative and Observation, Army-Style Tent Erecting, Cadet and Defence Force Knowledge, Swimming, and Physical Fitness.
The Competitions Director, NZCF Flight Lieutenant Michael Lissant-Clayton says all competing teams were strong, and the competition fierce.
“I have never seen one so tight. Each time scores were calculated,
we ended with a tie. Every cadet gave their best to represent their unit and their region, and they should be proud of the results,” he says.
The competition resulted in a three-way tie for first place, prompting a countback to determine the winner. The end result was teams from No. 11 and 30 Squadrons tying for second place, and the team from No. 17 (City of Christchurch) Squadron’s team taking the win. As part of the competition was also the Air Cadet’s National Davy Memorial Drill Competition, and that trophy was this year won by No. 11 (Hastings) Squadron.
The NZCF is modelled on the NZDF and has been, in various forms, an activity for New Zealand’s youth since 1864 making the
L – R: Cadet Conner Lee and Cadet SGT Andre Woodside of 30 (Hobsonville) SQN tend to Cadet SGT Daniel Bell of 88 (District of Waimakariri) SQN in the medical scenario. Photo: Cadet Flight SGT Caleb Vellupellai 23 (Nelson) SQN.
NZCF the oldest youth development organisation in NZ.
For more information about the
St Christopher’s Community ElderCare
St Christopher’s Community Eldercare caters for seniors in our community. These programmes provide a safe place to come and join in gentle exercise classes to keep you moving, be entertained, have fun, and socialise. Exercise classes are 3 days a week, and an ‘Older Persons Seminar’ is on the 4th Thursday of each month with
guest speakers, entertainment, and a light lunch. We have up to 14 dedicated volunteers that help run all programmes. We also run other workshops related to the elderly from time to time. Example: More Able More Stable Falls Prevention. Steady as you go (SAYGO) class, helps with muscle strength-
Judy Bailey: Keeping Up with the Grandkids
At 70, staying active is a top priority for Judy Bailey, especially when she’s chasing after her grandchildren or working in the garden.
These are the moments she cherishes most—however, it’s also when she feels the effects of ageing the most.
“I’ve tried numerous products for my joints and muscles over the years, but it wasn’t until I discovered Koru FX that I truly found something that made a real difference,” Judy shared.
When she first heard about Koru FX, Judy admits she was sceptical.
“I’ve been in the media for over 40 years, and I know there’s a lot of hype out there. But when I was sent a bottle, I thought, why not give it a go?”
Judy recalls the first time she applied Koru FX.
“We were travelling at the time. I rubbed a little of the cream onto my foot, not expecting much. But within minutes, I noticed a difference. It wasn’t just the initial difference; it seemed to be really long-lasting, and I didn’t need to apply it again that day,” she explained.
Whether it’s pushing her grandkids on the swings or kneeling down to plant new bulbs, Judy feels confident she has the support she needs. “I have Koru FX to help me bounce back,” she said.
“I’ve got a lot to do, and I’m not letting anything hold me back!”
Judy is proud to support Koru Nutrition and encourages others to give Koru FX a try.
“It’s been a game-changer for me, and I’m looking forward to many more adventures, whether that’s in the garden or out exploring with my family.”
ening & balance for seniors, every Tuesdays 11.30am - 12.30pm. At St Christopher’s church hall. Cost $3.00.
Stretch and Breathe class, improves strength & balance for seniors. At St Christopher’s church hall. Wednesdays 10.00am - 11.00am. Cost $3.00. Keep You Moving - An Indoor
social walking group to music, keeping you fit and maintaining your balance with confidence on a safe and flat levelled surface. At St Christopher’s church hall. Thursdays 11.30am - 12.30pm, $3.00.
All exercise classes are followed by a cuppa and socialising. Older Persons Seminars on the
New Zealand Cadet Forces or the Air Training Corps (Air Cadets) go to www.cadetforces.org.nz
4th Thursday of each month at St Christopher’s church hall. Morning tea, speakers, entertainment, and light lunch provided, 10.00am - 1.00pm, cost is $6.00. For more details contact Donna Wahrlich, Community Eldercare Coordinator on 027 385 2333 or email donna@stchristophers. co.nz
For those who might be hesitant, she adds, “You might be surprised at the difference it can make. After all, we’re never too old to keep moving and enjoying life!”
But it’s not just Judy. Over 60,913 New Zealanders have already experienced the fast-acting comfort and support of Koru FX for themselves.
Koru FX contains high-quality
oils like arnica, calendula, manuka, and black pepper, along with others, providing a soothing formulation.
If you’re looking for fastacting, long-lasting, natural joint and muscle support, then Koru FX is for you.
Ask for Koru FX cream next time you’re in the pharmacy and try it for yourself.
Looking for joint support? Judy Bailey has found Koru FX works well to support her joints.
Spotlight on local Maori talent
Over the last six years the Te Pātaka o Wairau Māori Night Market has paid tribute to local legends who volunteer their time supporting Māori kaupapa and the community.
It’s happening again at Huihuingā o Raumati being held Friday, November 29 from 4-8pm at Seymour Square where Te Pātaka o Wairau will present their annual local legend award.
An opportunity to bring the community together for whakawhanaungatanga (establishing relationships) is at the heart of the night market which is hosted under the korowai of the three mana whenua Iwi Rangitāne o Wairau, Ngāti Toa Rangatira and Ngāti Rārua.
This year new business includes Joe Collins and his whānau who own a pounamu carving business Kōhatu Kohara in Whakatū/ Nelson, specialising in hand crafted taonga, predominantly made from beautiful New Zealand stone.
Born and raised in Wairau, Joe’s carving journey began when he moved back in 2019 after spending four years playing rugby in Europe. “Coming home I realised that I spent years learning about
another culture and another language, yet I didn’t know much about my own,” says Joe.
“I began to reconnect with te ao Māori in 2021 and a deeply rooted love for Toi Māori was discovered. From kapa haka to whakairo, raranga to whakairo, I find it all so amazing. There is so much to learn, and the stories are endless.”
Also returning is revered Wairau carver and tāmoko artist Pāora Mackie. There will be something for everyone with kai stalls, raranga displays and Māori rongoā practitioners and kapa haka performances. First up will be the impressive Te Kura Tuwaenga o Wairau kapa haka rōpū starting at 4.30pm.
A key part of the market’s success has been the ongoing support of the Māori Wardens, who have been with them since the very beginning in 2018.
“Celebrating through cultural traditions, kai and entrepreneurship is key to creating healthy connections in our community. This is an opportunity to learn about what support is available in our community too with Hauora services and other Māori kaupapa organisations being involved. It is
about coming together under our tikanga values of kotahitanga and whanaungatanga to uplift one another and share our unique gifts and mātauranga,” says Chair of
Pātaka o Wairau Inc Society Dr
“We couldn’t hold this event without the generosity of Iwi and support from Redwood Trust and
Marlborough District Council as funding is tough in our current climate so a big mihi to them for supporting this kaupapa,” says Dr Eade.
Te
Lorraine Eade.
Collins whānau owners of Kōhatu Kohara, own a pounamu carving business and will be at the Te Pātaka o Wairau Māori Night Market on Friday, November 29 at Seymour Square from 4 – 8pm.
Discover stunning Care Suites
Navigating Governance and Risk in a
New Retirement Living Investment Class
By Stuart Bilbrough, Peak Living CEO
Peak Living’s Retirement Village Fund has the specific objective of building a retirement village right here in Blenheim. A community funded and community rewarded retirement village. With any investment, particularly one of a new class, governance and risk management are critical. At Peak Living, we’ve created a unique investment opportunity tailored to New Zealand’s retirement village sector, offering a well-structured approach to security and potential returns. Designed for wholesale investors, our approach is built on sound governance, comprehensive risk assessment, and a vision for secure retirement options.
A Secured Structure
The Peak Living Retirement Village Fund operates as a unit trust, administered on behalf of Peak Living Funds Management Limited by Bancorp Wealth Management Limited with independent oversight by a trustee service, such as Public Trust. Each village’s fund
is established under a Master Trust Deed, providing set guidelines and accountability. As an investor, you buy a unit in the fund rather than direct ownership in a specific property, which ensures both flexibility and professional fund management.
This structure offers investors a unique “Ticket to Occupy”, setting a secured entry price for a future occupation. Our innovative approach allows you to participate financially in the development of a retirement village with peace of mind about your eventual place there, should you choose to move in.
Comprehensive Risk Management
The Peak Living approach is to identify and document all risks so that investors can be fully informed before investing. These risks are detailed in the investment’s Private Placement Information Memorandum where Peak Living explains how each risk will be managed. This risk management will be reviewed periodically by the independent trustee service.
What Will an Investor’s Funds be Used for?
As each fund’s objective starts
with the design and build of a retirement village, the total amount rais ed (including any borrowings) will need to cover the land, design, consents, engineering, construction, materials, management fees, distributions and all other required and incidental costs needed to complete the village build and operations until self-funding.
Key Benefits for Investors
• Set Entry Price
By investing now, you secure today’s entry price for your future occupancy, protecting against inflationary pressures in the housing market which can be very stressful when trying to sell your home and move into a village at the same time.
• Priority Access Investors receive priority on the village waiting list, providing assurance of occupation when the time is right.
• Savings on Deferred Management Fees
The deferred management fee (DMF) is based on your
Note:
initial investment rather than entry price, potentially saving you thousands.
A Wholesale Investment*
Our fund is exclusively open to wholesale investors under New Zealand’s Financial Markets Conduct Act (FMCA). This classification requires investors either to demonstrate a good understanding of financial products and how they operate or show they have taken professional advice about this specific investment. We want to ensure that all participants are well-informed and aligned with the fund’s goals.
What Makes Peak’s Model Different?
The Peak Living Retirement Village Fund offers flexibility and transparency, prioritising both investor returns and resident benefits in a new type of residential property investment without the hassle of tenants. The fund structure and retirement village living, with independent trustee and statutory supervision oversight, ensures robust governance and a secure framework for this unique class of investment and ultimately hassle
Stuart has been a Chartered Accountant for over 30 years and held CFO and CEO roles in the retirement industry before establishing Peak Living (www. peakliving.co.nz)
free retirement village living. With Peak Living, you’re not only investing in a fund but in a carefully planned retirement community that offers a unique and secure path for your future. *Applications for investment are not currently being accepted. Expressions of interest are welcome, and do not involve an obligation or a commitment to invest.
The Lucky Little Pig
By Chris Valli
A story about a pig dealing with trauma has found its way to Marlborough primary school children.
The Inner Wheel Club of Marlborough has purchased 20 The Lucky Little Pig books to be circulated to primary schools and Marlborough Library Te Kahu o Waipuna. The Marlborough Club are members of the world’s largest women’s voluntary service organisation and is named after the small wheel inside the Rotary wheel, symbolising the close connection between the two organisations.
President Elaine Sullivan, delivered books to Rai Valley and Havelock Schools recently and both kura/schools really appreciated them. The publishing of the book came about as a result of Cyclone Gabrielle in Hawkes Bay, in February 2023 and is based on non-fiction and written by Stacey Smith and Deborah Hinde.
The story follows Pig as she navigates her way through the harsh impacts of the flood with bravery and hope, and coping mechanisms that the reader - with the help of a parent/caregiver - can replicate when life is getting hard. The story, ultimately turns from one of loss into one of determination and hope.
Author Stacey Smith is a mum of three young children, who along with her husband and brother, escaped the Gabrielle flood waters by getting onto their shed roof. Three metres of water swept through their Fernhill property in Hastings at the
tail end of two rivers, the Ngaruroro and the Tutaekuri.
Having worked in the social work sector for 14 years, Stacey says she understood the impact of trauma and wanted to create a resource parents could use to help support their own children.
Stacey says after the cyclone it was hard enough to get through day to day let alone supporting her kids. “If I had something like this book to hold in my hand and share with them I know it would have helped us,” she says.
Inner Wheel Club Marlborough Secretary Helen Faulkner says it is a great resource for children when dealing with trauma. Helen says Inner Wheel NZ donated money at the time of Cyclone Gabrielle with Stacey being one of the recipients.
Stacey Smith with her book The Lucky Little Pig and three of Lucky’s piglets.
Photo: Warren Buckland –New Zealand Herald.
Become your own dynamic master of business
Are you passionate about people and purpose-driven leadership? NMIT’s Master of Applied Management is designed to develop leaders who inspire positive change.
Lynn, a self-professed ‘people person’ from Germany, chose NMIT to pursue her dream. “The Master’s programme helped me to shape my individual management approach and develop skills to help me achieve my goals,” she reflects.
NMIT offers a wide range of programmes that support regional growth through the studies offered, and there’s plenty of opportunity for you or your whānau to explore your interests.
NMIT offers hands-on learning, expert tutors, and flexible study options designed to support you at every stage of your journey. You’ll gain practical skills, build industry connections, and benefit from a supportive learning environment tailored to help you reach your full potential.
Choose NMIT and take that first step toward becoming a leader ready to make a difference.
Unsure where to begin? Book a study
Lynn Weiss, a self-professed ‘people person’ from Germany, chose NMIT to pursue her dream. “The Master’s programme helped me to shape my individual management approach and develop skills to help me achieve my goals.”
navigation chat with our friendly and helpful team. They’re here to help you plan your future and set you up to succeed.
Visit nmit.ac.nz to explore the NMIT scholarships and programmes and discover your next steps. Begin your study journey at NMIT this February - Believe it, become it.
Whakatinanahia ō Manako
Base Woodbourne resolution with Iwi
The Government and three Kurahaupō Iwi (canoe tribes) have signed a $25.2million agreement to resolve the post-Treaty settlement issue of contaminated land at RNZAF Base Woodbourne.
Ngāti Apa ki te Rā Tō Trust, Rangitāne o Wairau Settlement Trust, and Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Kuia each received $8.4 million after contaminated soil at Base Woodbourne prevented the three Iwi
from purchasing a substantial part of the site as originally intended in their Treaty settlement redress.
The New Zealand Defence Force as the landholding agency and Te Arawhiti, as the responsible agency to ensure the durability of Treaty settlements, worked together to resolve the issue and an agreement was signed with Iwi on 14 October 2024.
Māori Crown Relations Minister
Tama Potaka praised the three Iwi for their ongoing commitment to resolving the issue.
“I know this mahi has presented everyone involved with challenges, and I particularly want to acknowledge and thank the Iwi for their resolution to move forward,” he says. “Upholding Treaty settlement commitments is a priority for this government. In this case, the negotiated settlement redress could
Rethinking your Diet
By George Elder
Most people have some idea about what they should and shouldn’t eat, but many have been very misguided. Magazine articles, cereal boxes, celebrity endorsements, TV advertisements and supermarket displays can have a big influence. Are they concerned for your health or are they just trying to sell you something?
Perhaps it’s a good time to review what you are eating and feeding your family. We gradually entrench habits into our diet. Our food environment is changing and we have been seduced by fast
food, convenience food, soda and snacks. Reviews of the research behind current diet guidance have uncovered poor science and unhealthy influence by politics and business in the same way that doctors once promoted cigarettes. Our first priority must be to provide our bodies with the best nutrition it needs. Think about the protein, fats, carbohydrate and vitamins we need for growth, repair and daily operation. When planning meals, always consider protein first. This is crucial because many processes in your body depend on you eating these essential amino-acids. Animal proteins are much more accessible to your body than plant sourced proteins. You need at
minimum, 1 gram of protein for each kilogram of body weight, with up to 2 grams per kilo, for aging, growing, or very active people. Spreading the protein throughout the day’s meals is also important.
not be delivered as intended and it was incumbent on us to work with Iwi to find a mutually agreeable solution.”
Contamination from per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contained in firefighting foams, was found in the soil at Woodbourne as part of the Crown’s ‘due diligence’ phase of engagement between the Iwi and the New Zealand Defence Force in 2019.
What about the fats and oils you eat? Old advice to limit saturated fats has now been thoroughly discredited. We have recently learned that so-called vegetable (seed) oils are particularly unhealthy, increasing inflammation which is now recognized as a major cause of heart disease. Some of our critical vitamins, A, E, D and K2 are only delivered in fat. If you are eating plenty of animal fats, coconut oil, butter or olive oil then you are on the right track. Next think about the carbohydrates in your meals. Most people eat far too many carbohydrates. The healthiest carbohydrates are found in green vegetables and fruit. Refined carbohydrate in grain foods such as flour, bread, rice, cereals, pasta, and sugar based products, immediately convert into sugar when eaten. More than about 1 teaspoon of sugar in your blood is toxic for your body, so if you consume too much sugar or refined carbohydrate, your body must immediately set about reducing this by moving it off into muscles, your liver or, converted and stored as body fat. Most excess body fat was originally eaten as carbohydrates.
PFAS can accumulate in the human body and does not break down in the environment, posing potential health and environmental risks.
“The $25.2m confirmed in Budget 2024 compensates the Iwi for being unable to purchase the remainder of the site due to the extent of the contamination, which includes the operational land and housing block as intended,” Mr Potaka says.
Finally, focus on the nutrients and use hunger as the guide for how much to eat. Factory made (ultra-processed) food has added chemicals and many nutrients are stripped out during processing. These empty calories add to weight gain. To maximise the value of food for your body, avoid ultra-processed food, instead select unpackaged food from the outside aisle of the supermarket. Go to www.takebackyrhealth. com for free nutrition guidance or my book. Seek professional medical advice before making dietary changes, particularly if on medication. Questions are welcome. Good health, George Elder, Diet Research Reviewer, Diploma in Nutrition.
Rapunzel – ‘a great opportunity’
Opportunity to finish on a high
By Chris Valli
Marlborough Academy of Dance offers classes for kids and adults with dance styles including Highland, Jazz, Hip Hop, Contemporary and DanceFit. They also offer college dancers an opportunity to finish their MAD dancing experience on a high.
One such dancer is Marlborough Girls’ College student Mya Blackmore. The Year-13 students say there is nothing quite as big as playing the lead Rapunzel, in the upcoming end of year show, Rapunzel – a Tangled Tale.
Rapunzel is a fictional character in Disney’s animated film Tangled (2010) and is based on the title character from the Brothers Grimm fairytale of the same name.
“I’ve watched the movie at least three times,” says Mya. “It’s about knowing all my dances and then falling into the character,” she says when asked how to get up to speed with the role.
“I didn’t expect to get the role,” she says. “I was super pleased when Fleur, my hip hop teacher told me.”
Rapunzel - A Tangled Tale is about a young princess kept unaware of her royal lineage by Mother Gothel, a vain woman who kidnaps her as a baby to hoard her hair’s healing powers and remain young forever.
Raised in a secluded tower, Rapunzel escapes with a wanted thief who promises to help her see the elusive floating lights in time for her 18th birthday, in exchange for a crown she has hidden from him.
Speaking of being 18 years young, Mya dances hip hop and contemporary along with jazz. She joined MAD as a four-year-old and over 14 years says her own growth within MAD has been not only fun but organic along the way.
“You grow to be a part of it, you just know. If you’ve been doing it since you were little, like me, it just clicks, it becomes part of you, whatever genre you are doing,” she says.
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Rapunzel with her friend Pascal the Chameleon.
The influence of Robyn
Mya says MAD director Robyn Simmons has had a huge influence on her time at the Auckland Street based studio.
Robyn, a Queen’s Birthday Honours recipient in 2012 has taught thousands of Marlborough girls and a few boys, to dance and holds key positions on Nelson-Marlborough and national highland dancing organisations.
With ballet teacher Jeannie Marks, Robyn founded the Marlborough Dance Centre in Blenheim. Students have danced with New Zealand teams at the Royal Edinburgh tattoo, the Virginia Tattoo in the United States and the Wonju Tattoo in Korea, which she attended in 2006 with 50 New Zealand dancers.
Discover our range of customisable, consent-exempt buildings that let you invest more in the build itself and spend more time doing what you love!
whole life, she’s always been a role model to look up to. She’s so kind but also so wise. She’s good at what she does. Dancing is about giving it a go. It can be scary, putting yourself out there, especially something like
this, playing Rapunzel,” Mya says. “This show is fun and there is so much to it. It’s like watching a musical with heaps of dancing involved. It’s been my whole life, it’s scary that it’s coming to an end.”
Sara Bishell as Maximus the Horse with Palace Guards Sophie Popham, and Chloe Kyle along with Toy Soldiers Lauchlan Bishell and Maddison Palmer.
Blenheim
ABOVE: Paintbrushes at rear left – right: Penelope Small, Cristina Fernandez-Pierre, Grace McCallum, Mia Koubek. Artists: Sienna Batty, Annabelle Hook, Scarlett Watson and Tayla Koubek.
RIGHT: Mother Gothel danced by Jessica Douthett.
BELOW: Contemporary Dance Group, “The Escape” left – right: Bella Le Compte, Paige Norton, Mary Hedgman, Ruby Cook, Ruby Price and Madelyn Dasler.
Monday to Friday 8:30am - 5pm Saturday 9:30am - 1pm CLOSED Sunday & Public Holidays
• Irrigation NZ ‘Blue Tick’ certified
• Locally owned and operated
• Extensive knowledge base of existing systems
• Cost effective and efficient service
• Large network of suppliers
• Member of Irrigation NZ
Ayla Shaw (middle) as Flynn Rider with Village people standing left – right: Ellie MacDonald, Charlie Bennett, Icey-Bradley-Kiwi, Fade MacDonald. On ground, Mia Harris and Peyton Bull.
IN THE FOREST: Blue butterflies Elsie Galt on left, Sophie Price on right. Bumblebees Charlotte Rea on left, Grace Crosswell on right. Fawns left – right: Amelia Black, Charlotte Hook, Evie Rea and Ahlia Morrissey.
Te Radar’s CookBookery
By Chris Valli
Presenter Te Radar wants to know why Alison Holst believed fried brains were the perfect food for children. Locals will potentially find out the answer at the Boathouse Theatre tomorrow night, Thursday, November 15 at 7:30pm.
His show, Te Radar’s CookBookery, has been marketed as “dishing up a smorgasbord of kiwi recipes moulded into a deliciously hilarious and sentimental journey through the Cookbookery of our past”.
Te Radar - also known as Andrew Lumsden - has bought a comedic lens to documentaries and reality shows. Since starting as a stand-up comedian, his work has spanned from travel to New Zealand history. His sustainable living hits Radar’s Patch and Global Radar have both won local awards for Best Information Series.
The show has been co-written, co-researched, and had a lot of work on the images done by his wife and long-time collaborator Ruth Spencer, a Blenheim native.
“She grew up in, went to school in and got her start in theatre there. Her first grown up show was actually at The Boathouse,” he says. “It also happens that we are bringing the show down to coincide with a celebration of her mother’s 85th birthday, as she still lives in Blenheim.”
The show will reveal New Zealand’s rich
and weird home cooking heritage while rediscovering celebrity chefs such as Graham Kerr, Alison Holst, Aunt Daisy and Hudson and Halls.
“We’ll savour cookbooks designed to get us eating more dairy, tamarillos or kiwifruit, and the desperate lengths they go to. Cold Sour Kiwifruit Soup anyone?
We’ll get a taste of cookbooks from school fundraisers and recipe contests; recipes supplied by ordinary kiwis that suggest some of us were not to be trusted with food,” he says.
The show also mentions, among many others, the Marlborough cookbook genius Jan Bilton, whose excellent Kiwifruit cookbook is amongst his absolute favourites.
In 2007 Jan and husband Michael moved from Auckland to Marlborough and published two food/wine books, one of which, Marlborough on the Menu won Best Food/Wine Guide in the Le Cordon Bleu World Food Media Awards.
Fortunately, no food is served during the show. Tickets can be found at https://www. eventfinda.co.nz/2024/te-radars-cookbookery/blenheim
RIGHT: Te Radar’s CookBookery show at the Boathouse tomorrow night will mention Marlborough cookbook genius Jan Bilton, whose excellent Kiwifruit cookbook is amongst his absolute favourites.
Local tap dancers ‘buzzing’
By Chris Valli
A Christchurch tap dancer who appeared on America’s Got Talent in 2022 has left an indelible impression on Marlborough’s tap dancers.
The Marlborough Tap Studio hosted famous tap dancer and America’s Got Talent finalist Bayley Graham recently at their Waterlea Race Course studio.
The 24-year-old, who has been tapping since he was six, was head-hunted for the show by US producers who saw his dancing skills on social media. Owner and teacher Carol Knox teaches the Glenn Wood Tap syllabus (designed for all ages and skills level) and says Bayley contacted Carol after Glenn told him how impressed he was with our tap school during exam time in August.
Dance teacher Jan Ruardy, of the Diamonz Tap Studio in Christchurch, has been teaching and now working with Bayley when he was first brought to her garage dance studio by his mother. Bayley studied under Jan (also Carol’s teacher) but as a young man has developed his own unique style of dance which Carol says is very relaxed, technically superb, and very entertaining.
“My dancers ranging in age from five – 50 years were and are buzzing with joy from meeting a world renowned tap dancer and learning new technique to enhance their performances in the future. Bayley asked me if he could visit us again and
I said, yes please,” Carol enthuses.
Bayley ran the Master Classes for Tap Dance students as well as private individual lessons for local tap dancers.
Dancer Courtney Brownlee says she admired Bayley for wanting to give up his time to come
and teach them, especially with his busy schedule. Meanwhile, Phineas McFadden, 14, says the opportunity with Bayley was the chance to learn new styles and ideas.
“He has an awesome stage presence, so it is exciting to learn some of that from him,” he says.
UP CLOSE WITH BAYLEY: Marlborough Tap Studio intermediate dancers from Left-right; Grace Timms, Meah Bryant, Cushla Brownlee, Harriet McLennan, Alora Crosby, Mac Rosene, Bayley Graham, Lili Phillips, Min He, Bastian McFadden, Evalyn Hawker, Elaine Huang and Jorgia Woods. RIGHT: Bayley Graham doing what he loves best.
Diabetes Action Month
World Diabetes Day November 14th
Lap the map for Diabetes
By Chris Valli
November is World Diabetes month and the Blenheim Lions are calling on locals to ‘lap the map’ to raise advocacy for diabetes prevention.
The annual ‘Lap the Map’ for diabetes event is on this Sunday, November 17 and is a free family friendly event helping to boost the public awareness of diabetes in our community.
Lions Clubs across the country are hosting family friendly walks by walking a combined distance surpassing the perimeter of the New Zealand coastline at 15,000 kilometres. Lions are encouraging locals that it doesn’t matter how far they walk or run, it’s about being involved, getting active and moving together.
Blenheim Lions spokesperson Helen Williams says they will be supported by the Diabetes New Zealand Youth and Type 1 Coordinator from Nelson Amanda Deans who
CGM's - game changer
Pharmac is now funding continuous glucose monitors, insulin pumps, and insulin pump consumables for people with type 1 diabetes. About 12,000 New Zealanders with diabetes are now using continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) in the first year of funding, which will rise to more than 18,000 after five years. There are about 4800 people currently using insulin pumps, and this is expected to increase to
almost 10,000 over five years.
Heather Verry, chief executive of Diabetes NZ, says free access to CGMs and insulin pumps is not only life-changing for thousands of New Zealanders with type 1 diabetes – it is also lifesaving. “We know that for our type 1 community, this is more than just vital technology, it’s a lifeline for better health and greater freedom. Quite simply, it’s a game-changer.”
will be stationed at The Quays (by Raupo) with her display and ready to answer any queries.
“We are inviting all members of the public to register with us at any of the bridges along the Taylor River Reserve and be in the draw to win one of two $50 fruit and vegetable vouchers,” says Helen.
The public can be in the draw between 9 - 11am and must lodge their ‘lucky ticket’ at one of the other bridges by the cut off time of 12 noon.
“This means they can begin and end their walk at any of the bridges this year. (The Quays, Henry Street Bridge, White Street Bridge, Purkiss Street Bridge or Burleigh Bridge) and they can walk in any direction,” says Helen.
All funds raised will go towards diabetes awareness, prevention and research. It is predicted that within the next 20 years, the number of people with type 2 diabetes (controlled by diet) will increase by 70-90%.
Pharmac is now funding continuous glucose monitors for people with type 1 diabetes.
Summer Dining Directory
Dine in these great local restaurants this summer!
Grove tavern
your local Family-FrienDly tavern
Best pub meals in town and live music every second weekend in summer with grumpy monkey.
Facilities include:
• TAB • Pokies • Pool table
• Meat raffles: Wed/Fri/Sat
• Happy hour: 4.30-6pm Wed and Fri 1.3pm Sunday
We pride ourselves on providing quality meals and efficient and friendly service.
open 7 days 11am till late
03 578 5502
77 Grove rd, Blenheim
catalyst eatery
moDern contemporary caFe
Pull up a seat in the sun or dine indoors, the choice is yours at the Catalyst Eatery.
The new summer menu features simple, delicious kiwi classics served up in a fresh modern space. Whether you’re after a quick coffee or a leisurely dining experience, the Catalyst Eatery is open 7 days for breakfast and lunch, and dinner on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
BreakFast from 7.30am - 7 days
lunch from 11am - 7 days
Dinner from 5pm - thu, Fri, sat Westwood avenue, Blenheim ph 03 972 2722
cork & keG
enGlish puB, restaurant & motels
Hearty Drinks - Tasty Eats
- Great Hosts
Everything YOU want in an Old English Pub....and then some!
Fantastic food & atmosphere... dine indoors or out in own private beer garden!
Pop in for a quick pint, or a leisurely meal!
Craft beer - local wine - fresh pizzaawesome pub grub!
mon-Fri 3pm-late | sat-sun 12pm-late see you at the cork!
33 inkerman st, renwick | ph: 03 572 9328
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Fat tony’s
the heart oF community Flavour
We pride ourselves on our diverse menu, crafted with care to encompass the best of comfort food, artisanal bakery delights, and innovative drinks.
As the sun rises, our café comes alive with the chatter of happy customers enjoying breakfast or brunch with friends and family.
As day turns to night, Fat Tony’s transforms into a lively bar and restaurant where flavours truly come to life.
5 mills and Ford road east, Grovetown info@fattonys.co.nz | 022 131 6176
harvest
aWarD-WinninG Gastronomy
Join us for lunch, aperitivo or dinner
Relax in our beautiful garden setting
Indoor and outdoor dining
Come and our experience our award winning food & beverage and enjoy our genuine hospitality
lookinG For the perFect place to host your christmas Function?
Look no further! Marlborough’s top bar and bistro! Quench is the ideal venue, offering versatile indoor spaces and a fabulous outdoor pool area to accommodate both large and small groups including music every Friday night. Enjoy our festive Christmas menu crafted from the finest local ingredients, ensuring your team’s celebration is truly memorable.
call us on 0800 752 275 or email quench@chateaumarlborough.co.nz quenchrestaurant.co.nz carnmore chateau marlborough, 95-117 high st, Blenheim
AirShow
There is a rumor that the Airshow is not going to be continuing after the next one. That show brings in a lot of revenue for Marlborough. Hope this is just a rumor.
Reducing crime 101
They wreck, rob, ruin, rape, murder, deceive; claim as a young one under 25, they are still a child; or the need to inform, family; in times of instant group chats, tweet, twitter, live on line, telephone, text- name suppression must go. Join the world of accountability.
Ask any drunk from MP to muggle; they recall everything to mates, but Section 47 (a)(2)(c) is the freebie!
Re: Light party
In response to the text regarding the light party; it is not a Halloween event in any way. It’s simply an activity provided by the church to give people an alternative to Halloween.
Planter pots
I was very disappointed to have spent hours sorting and cleaning my planter pots for delivery to the recycling shop at the Picton dump station only to find that the shop no longer exists and the pots had to go into the landfill.
Stay home
Please, please if you or your child is sick stay home, DON’T send them to school or go to work to pass it onto other people, please be considerate.
I don’t know how many sick days I have had from sick work colleagues coming to work as their child is sick and they have picked up their bugs or flu and come to work to pass it round and these work colleagues have a number of sick days to use.
Be considerate of other people, if that one person who is sick stayed home till they were better it would save a lot if people getting sick, it’s not rocket science people think of others.
Above and beyond
I would like to say a big thank you to Heather at the MDC for her friendly, helpful, understanding and patience this week, when she addressed my multiple issues successfully and going above and beyond.
Disgraceful
I’m absolutely disgusted with the handling of the Yr 13 graduation. Just because 10 boys went too far with pranks, why punish every other student. Both Principals should be ashamed of themselves, ruining it for all those kids, especially family that had traveled internationally and elderly relatives etc. Those kids and families need a public apology from both Principals who acted like spoilt children! Disgraceful!!
Re: Quote
Western world’s approach to life: Panic! It’s all out of our control!
Buddhist’s approach: Relax. It’s all out of our control.
There are learnings to be had from all corners of the world.
Re: No service.... no sale
Oh the outrage! You had to serve yourself. A lot of businesses are struggling to find staff.
Crazy Politics or Not?
Was initially gobsmacked when the unbelievable happened...The States returning a convicted criminal to The Whitehouse!
But, on second thoughts, when you look at Russia, Belarus, Nth Korea, Syria, Iran, plus countless African Countries, probably not so surprising.
And heck, just look back to the shambolic lot that controlled NZ’s Treasury Benches last term!
Yep, Crazy Politics.
Bridge garbage
Tuarmarina bridge blocked by much garbage washed down by recent rain flow. I wonder when the council will get onto this before the next lot of rains hit.
Resealing Bells Rd roundabout
This is only a year old. Can’t we build anything in this country any more?
Anniversary dining
Lucky the Trout in Canvastown was open for lunch Marlborough Anniversary day. I hope they had a good day, especially thanks to very little open elsewhere.
A couple of cafes open in Havelock. Nothing open with a licence. Same at Rai Valley & Linkwater. Met up with at least 3 other couples that also ended up at Canvastown for the same reason.
We often go there, just thought we’d stop off somewhere else for a change, but not to be, back to the Trout!
Food is always consistent, and a great atmosphere.
Thanks for being open.
Re: Wheelie Bin Clips
Did you even bother to collect your clips from MDC? I did, and the very helpful staff explained how they work, gave me instructions to take home and showed me a clip attached to a bin. So simple to use and weight of contents of bin automatically unlatches the clip when bin is lifted by the truck.
Easy!
Great job MDC for supplying them for free.
Fireworks petition
You and your pets can help ban the sales of public fireworks for good by signing pawprintpetirion.co.nz
Re: wheelie bin lid clips
Please note they unclip themselves when turned upside down by the van, the driver does not have to unlock them, as one of your readers incorrectly thinks.
Re: Wheelie bin clips
The truck driver has no need to get out of the truck to unclip the bins. The clips are released when the bin is tipped upside down and weight of the contents exits the bin.
This is explained to you by the lovely helpful staff at the Marlborough district council office.
As I found out when I went and inquired about the FREE! clips.
Bloody fantastic idea, saves our streets being littered with rubbish when we have those strong NW winds.
Talk of the week Springlands Pharmacy
I appreciate the care taken to investigate the medications I was purchasing for my mum. You were kind, helpful and thorough. Wonderful to be treated with such respect. Keep up your fabulous work.
Wheelie bin clips
The clips release when the bin is tipped. All you have to do is re-clip when you put your bin out.
Muscle mahi
Congratulations Isaac Newman. What a great result with your body building competitions, winning both South Island then NZ. Now an over all champion and professional body builder. Trained hard well done and well deserved.
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.
Guy Fawkes
To the very silly person who wrote this. You have no idea what you’re talking about. The Light party is meant to COUNTER the evil Halloween.
They have to outreach to THOUSANDS of local non Christian’s, some hearing the gospel of Christ for a first time.
Literally thousands turn up, so it could be an idea for you to get a few facts right before you start slamming people.
hosted famous tap dancer and America’s Got talent finalist bayley Graham recently at their Waterlea Race Course studio.
Photos: supplied.
Garden Marlborough
A
of the
Top of the South Rock n Roll demonstration
Studio
section
crowd at the Garden Fete at Pollard Park on Saturday.
Photo: Sue Schwass.
top of the South Rock n Roll Club members Aaron and Nicky Marshall entertain locals with a demonstration amongst the gusty winds at the Marlborough A/P show at the weekend. Pictured below is Richie Letham and Erin Evans. Photos: Sue Schwass.
The junior tappers had a wonderful opportunity learning a routine with Bayley.
Senor tappers were buzzing after the masterclass from Bayley.
At the recent SAS Australasian Slam basketball tournament held in Auckland the Kaha Basketball Under 18 boys finished first place in the Elite A Grade.
Top row: Leo Wiapo, Toby Baker, Brodie Materoa, Ryan Quinn, Kees Macdougall, Teariki Hook, Leon Wightwick, Couper Robinson, Marcell Kovacs, Oliver Harris, Aston Dollimore, Tyson Foote and Tarin Mason. Middle row: Rangatira Smith, Louis Thomas, Hamish Lindstrom, Malakai Riwaka-Clarke, Mana Collins, Hunter Warmouth , Malachi Murrell Manu, Aki Collins and Matt Pigou. Front Row: Ajay Gane, Dan Du Plessis, Jake Gane and Thomas Blackmore.
Let’s chat with…
Marcelo Gonzalez
Cultural & Sports Event Manager
Marlborough Multicultural Centre
Are you a dog or cat person? A dog person.
Favourite global cuisine?
Chilean potato pie made by my grandma.
What would you buy if money was no object?
I would buy some land in the middle of a forest and build my house.
Celebrity-wise who would be at your dream dinner party?
Francia Gonzalez, Michael Jordan, Gabriela Mistral, Alexis Sanchez.
Veggies or fruit? Both.
The shop you can’t walk past is...? Pitin Restaurant.
If you didn’t live in Marlborough where would you choose?
Loncoche City Southern Chile with my family.
Favourite programme or series currently watching?
1899 – Ancient Apocalypse 2 – Our Planet 2.
What do you do for your own mental health? I do workouts in the morning before work, I eat well and I try to turn off my phone after work to enjoy time with my partner.
What’s your favourite colour? Green.
If you had to choose another job what would it be? Pro-football player.
What truly matters to you? My family.
The best advice I ever received was? Follow your dreams, I will always support you - Mom.
My friends would say I am… Creative, dreamer and direct person.
this week
Herbicide damage: By Wally Richards
I am very concerned about the number of gardeners that have asked me why their tomatoes/beans/potatoes are growing funny this season.
When we say ‘funny’ we are referring to distorted or rolled leaves, new growth that is misshaped, beans that come up and die off and feather like foliage. These aspects are related to mainly tomatoes, potatoes, beans, grapes and roses.
The pictures that I have asked to be sent to me have all indicated herbicide damage.
Usually other plants in the same area appear to be unaffected which indicates that the amount of herbicide is very small at parts per million. Stronger amounts would kill the herbicide sensitive plants (tomatoes etc), and likely have shown as die back in other plants including weeds. Where did the herbicide come from?
The first thought is from the spraying of weedkillers somewhere in the neighborhood.
If someone nearby has sprayed on a day when spray drift can be carried by the wind then that is a possibility. If someone has sprayed on a calm day within a few miles of your property then that could be the cause.
What can happen on a calm day is the minute droplets of spray are lifted on conventional air currents up into the air, from there, they are carried by air currents for any distance before dumping, maybe on your tomatoes.
The worst times for anyone to be spraying herbicides is on a windy or calm day.
The best time is on a day when there is a light breeze and the person spraying can direct the spray to target plants only.
Placing a shield over the nozzle of the sprayer is recommended to prevent any drift or uplift of the chemicals into the air.
You can make a shield very simply by taking the nozzle off the end of your spray wand, then making a hole in the middle of a plastic 2 litre ice cream container to fit nicely over the end of your sprayer’s nozzle, after which you screw the nozzle surround back on.
Most effective and all you need to do is place the ice cream container over the target weeds and pull the trigger. All the chemical spray stays inside the container.
Then move to the next weeds making sure you don’t drip herbicide on preferred plants.
If you are not using a shield then make sure your nozzle on your sprayer is not producing a mist, instead make sure it is producing heavy droplets by adjusting it.
You can always use a food dye in the mix to determine where your sprays are going.
Unfortunately you have very little control as to what other people are doing around you and your gardens are always at risk from air borne sprays.
If you know that a neighbor is spraying weed killers then the best thing to do is to apply good amounts of water to the foliage of your herbicide sensitive plants with the hose and water other plants as well.
By diluting any air borne chemical that may land on your plants you will reduce the potential problem.
Every now and then I hear about gardeners who have sprayed their roses or gardens with a sprayer that has either a herbicide in the sprayer or has been used in the past for weed killing.
Herbicides are fairly good keepers and if you don’t use all the made up product there is a great temptation to leave it in the sprayer for next time.
This is ok if you mark in bold letters on the sprayer, WEED KILLERS ONLY.
Have a separate sprayer for other sprays that are not weed killers.
Even if you are money conscious and wash out a plastic sprayer that has had a weed killer in it, there is a very good chance that you will damage roses, grapes, tomatoes, potatoes and beans if you use that sprayer on these plants.
This happens because the plastic is porous and it holds onto some of the herbicide which is very difficult to wash out completely, but can release out with other spray mixes.
Be safe, not sorry, as it costs a lot more to replace plants than buy a second sprayer.
So we have looked at the possibility of air borne sprays from our surrounds and our own sprayers yet there is a more devious way of harming your sensitive plants.
The first time I came across another herbicide problem was many years ago when a fertiliser drive to raise funds sold sheep manure to local gardeners.
The gardeners placed the manure around their roses and other plants and then over the next few weeks the roses and other sensitive plants curled up their toes and died.
What happened was this, a farmer had sprayed his paddocks with a herbicide to kill gorse/thistles etc and one which does not harm grass. The sheep came along a little later and ate the grass prior to going the the shearing shed.
The manure collect from the shed was full of herbicide.
A more common way is any herbicide used on the lawn to kill various weeds, the lawn is mowed and the clippings are taken to the dump at a cost or to a green waste recycling centre.
At the recycling plant they have no idea if there is a herbicide in the lawn clippings or not.
The herbicides available both to the
home garden market and commercially can have a residue for very long periods which is about 6 months or more, not just a few mowing’s.
From what I can gather it can be as long as 18 months with the composting material been turned several times during that time, before it is safe to use.
Thus if you are making your own compost don’t place any lawn clippings in it that have been sprayed with a herbicide. The best solution for those clippings is to place them under well established trees and shrubs where no other plants are growing.
I have recently heard of several instances where purchased composted, vegetable compost and organic compost have been used in gardens and the sensitive plants such as tomatoes and beans have displayed damage. Some of these purchased composts have been brand names which is really bad news.
I have used two makes of compost in recent times which come from Daltons and Oderings all of which have been ok.
There is a problem because of the large amount of composts been made and sold, is that you could get a bag that has herbicide residue in it where another is 100 percent ok.
The test if you are going to place around or plant sensitive plants into a purchased compost is to place a few bean seeds into the compost. If they come up ok you know there is not a problem.
If they don’t then take the bag back to where you got it from and complain. Placing any herbicide residue compost around non-sensitive plants is not usually a problem.
In the last year or two I have found some pea straw used as a mulch contained herbicides.
I think the commercial pea growers who sell pea straw want the plants to dry out quicker after harvesting the peas so they spray with Roundup to facilitate fast drying. Not good.
Wednesday 13 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 14 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, TONIGHT: 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.
Friday 15 November
Blenheim Family History Group in PICTON: TODAY 1.30-3.30pm. Need help with your family history research, come to the Picton Library and
Play and learn Blenheim library, 9am-12pm. Care-giver led play-based 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!
meet members of the Blenheim Family History Group. Contact Helen 0210390106.
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 16 November
Nativity Spring Plant Sale: 10am-12noon on Saturday 16th November at the Nativity Centre, all proceeds going to local and international missions. Cash only. A wide range of plants, seedlings and garden accessories will be available to purchase.
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.
Sunday 17 November
Marlborough Farmers’ Market: 9am-noon. Marlborough A&P Showgrounds. Fresh produce from your local farmers. Tasty line up of fresh and seasonal, gourmet and artisan produce and products that this region has to offer.
Picton Rail and Sail:
On the Foreshore - mini train rides and mini yacht hire to sail on our pond every Sunday 11am-3pm, 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. Paint and Sip Session at Fidelio: 3-6pm. All ages, minors must be accompanied by a guardian $55 Join us for a floral-themed Paint and Sip session. No experience needed. All supplies are provided, along with nibbles and beverage. Book directly with Anastasiia at 027-296-9287.
Monday 18 November 2024
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 19 November
STEADY AS YOU GO (SAYGO): Gentle Exercise/Balance Class for Seniors. 11.30am12.30pm,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 8.30am 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. Meeting TODAY 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.
Working Bee Dates for Te Whanau Hou
Grovetown Lagoon:
Working bees for tree planting, propagation and maintenance). Every second Sunday of the Month (excluding Easter and December). Meet at the Wairau Rowing Club at 9.30am.
Vines Village Monthly Market: November 20th from 4:30pm. All the Village stores and tasting rooms will be open, alongside 20 local food trucks and artisan vendors, a Paint & Sip session furry-friend focused, and live music from James Gropp and the Marlborough Pipe Band. This month our friends at Marlborough Four Paws is our community focus fundraising with special animal themed merchandise, photo opportunities, adoption and volunteering advice, raffles, and prizes! Bring along your whole family, fur babies and all, to enjoy this lovely evening in the beautiful Village gardens. No cost to enter. 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. If
all jazz records wanted, Kiwi and overseas artists. Blue Note, Prestige, Riverside, ECM, Verve, Impulse, CTI, Milestone etc. Top prices paid for good titles. Please phone Dave 021 222 6144, Pennylane Records, Chch. 7 days.
2024 Annual Reporting Meeting
(Pursuant to sections 100-102 of the Electricity Industry Act 2010)
The Trustees of the Marlborough Electric Power Trust advise the Trust’s Annual Reporting Meeting for beneficiaries will be held on Monday 25 November 2024, 7.00 pm at the Programmes Room, Marlborough Lines Stadium 2000.
The meeting is to:
• Report on the operation of the Trust and Marlborough Lines Limited (the Company) during the preceding financial year and on the financial statements of the Trust and the Company for the financial year ended 30 June 2024.
• Confirm appointment of auditor and set their remuneration.
• Enable general discussion and information to beneficiaries of the Trust.
Copies of the Trust’s Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ending 30 June 2024 will be available from Tuesday 19 November 2024 to download under the Documents section of our website www. mept.co.nz or obtained from Blenheim Accounting Ltd, 66 Seymour St, Blenheim (office hours 9am-5pm, Monday to Thursday).
Brenda Munro Trust Secretary
Marlborough g irls’ College Careers & Pathways
Ngā mihi nui
Malborough Girls’ College would like to extend our thanks and appreciation to the local businesses, employers and individuals who supported our Gateway programme this year. Your involvement and support is invaluable for our students and you are playing a crucial role in their education and development. Special thanks to those businesses that provided work experience placements for students. We look forward to collaborating with you again in the future.
Ngā mihi nui
Karen Tattersall, Liz Maw & Carolyn Pudney, MGC Careers Team
• Arvida Ashwood Park, Blenheim
WITHERLEA INDOOR BOWLS
would
HouS eHold goods. Make an offer. 8am start 37 High St, Renwick CaRR Street Saturday 16 November 8.30am - 12noon. Make us an offer, some free items, all must go.
39 aRTHuR BakeR PlaCe, Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th November, 9am-5pm Retiring from Radio model airplanes. 3 models have 46cc motors, 1 plane no motor, 2 model motors, starter for model planes. Large socket set 3/4 drive, Bits socket 1/2 inch drive, drill battery light needs new battery, scrowl saw near new, file-n-joint, steam mop, ladies golf bag with clubs and umbrella. Open to offers. tel 0272680936.
Community Care Pharmacy: Within the Blenheim Warehouse, open 7 days 9am8pm. Only closed Christmas Day. Lifeline Marlborough: 0800 543354, 24hr helpline.
Women’s Refuge and Sexual Violence Support Centre Marlborough: Crisis line number phone 0800 refuge or 03 5779939.
Victim Support: 0800 VICTIM (0800 842 846)
Alcoholics Anonymous: 0800 AA WORKS - 0800 229 6757.
Wairau Hospital: Hospital Visiting Hours: Daily 2.30pm - 8pm, children under 12 may visit parents only.
Maternity Ward: 10am-noon, 4pm-7pm. Children's Ward: Daily 10am-8pm. Visiting at all times is subject to the discretion of the nurse in charge of the ward. Emergency Dentist: Contact Wairau Hospital 5209999.
BAYNON, Alastair Eric (Ali):
On Friday November 1, 2024 at his home. Aged 78 years. Dearly loved husband of Annette, loved Dad of Karen and David (Perth). Loved “Poppy” of Alistair, loved uncle of Annmarie and Eric. Dear friend of JC and Barbara Anne, and JB. Messages may be sent to 4 Costello Avenue, Blenheim 7201. A funeral service for Ali was held at the Sowman’s Mayfield Chapel on Friday November 8, followed by interment at Fairhall Cemetery.
T: 03 578 4719
E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz W: www.sowmans.co.nz
BLEE; Heather Vivian.
Passed peacefully in her sleep on 8 November, after a long battle of illness. Loving and devoted wife of Roger and sister to Gilly and Peter, extended family and Nana to Jason and Laura, Clayton and Elisa, Michelle and Grant, and her grandchildren. Mum to Seamus. Messages to c/- PO Box 9, Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz A service for Heather has been held.
Death notices
JONES: Christina (Tina) née Eckford. Passed peacefully in her sleep on 2 November 2024 after a valiant battle, aged 73 years. Dearly loved wife of the late Eric Jones, mum and mother-in-law of Anthea, Chris and Melanie. Nana/Nain of her five grandchildren and spouses; Richard and Cheyenne, April and Liam, Christina, Megan and Kevin, Rebecca. Gran Nain of Thomas. Messages to c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz In lieu of flowers, donations to Margaret Stewart House, Wellington or Marlborough Hospice Trust (who have been a huge support to Mum and family) would be appreciated and may be made at the service. A private cremation has taken place and a Memorial Service to celebrate Tina’s life will be held at the Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, 15 Boyce Street on Saturday 7 December at 2.00pm. The service will be livestreamed and can be viewed on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services website.
SANGSTER: Allan
Passed away peacefully on Tuesday November 5, 2024, at Ashwood Park Rest Home, aged 94. Dearly loved husband of Val for 70 years. Much loved father and father-in-law of Diane and Kevin, Mark (deceased), Kaye and Stuart, Helen and Ross, and David and Dawn. Treasured Grandad and Great Grandad to his many grandchildren. Loyal member of the Manchester Unity (Mataki Lodge) for 73 years. Special thanks to the staff at Ashwood and the Marlborough Alzheimers Society for their quality of care. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Marlborough Alzheimers Society would be greatly appreciated (Acc 02-0600-0112284-00 Ref: Sangster). Messages to 5831 State Highway 6 RD2, Rai Valley 7192 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz A private service is being held.
SCHULTZ; Phyllis Jeanette
Ambulance: Urgent 111. Non-urgent 579 4870.
Chemist: Picton Healthcare Pharmacy. Ph 573 6420 Mon -Fri 8.30-5.30pm, Sat 9-2pm. Medical Centre Pharmacy, Ph 928 4265, Mon-Fri 8am-5.30pm
Picton: In Memoriam
RIDDER, 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.
ROCHE, Frances Joy (Fran): In Loving Memory (On Friday 15.11.2024, seven years have passed). Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure, you are loved beyond words, and missed beyond measure. You are our lady - our rock - our shining light. Your loving husband Tony, sons Ricci, Karl, Sean and Justin and their families.
In Memoriam
The deadline is Monday 5.00pm. Please contact the Sun for further details. 72 High Street, Blenheim, email office@blenheimsun.co.nz or phone 577 7868. Remember your lost loved one on their anniversary. Visit us online at blenheimsun.co.nz
BROOKS: Daphne Constance (née Riseley). On Tuesday November 5, 2024, aged 89 at Hospice Marlborough. Now resting with the Lord and Dean, after a short illness. Dearly loved wife of the late Dean Brooks. Beloved mother and mother-in-law of Heather and Mike Glenday, Katherine and Brian Richardson, Vanessa and Mark Watson. Loved and admired Grandma of Megan Glenday, Emily and Ben Columbus; Felicity Matheson, Nick and Beckie Richardson, Greg and Caitlin Richardson; Rachel and Andy Gray, Chris Watson and Laura McCann. Very special Great Grandma of Mairehe-Mae Tikao; Abbie and Axel Matheson, Jake, Isla, Bonnie and Finn Richardson; Adalyn and Frances Richardson; Lily and Hazel Gray; Harper, Remy and Florence Watson. Much loved sister, sister-in-law and Aunty of the Riseley and Brooks families. Thanks to the staff at Hospice Marlborough and Wairau Hospital, and the church family of the Salvation Army, Blenheim, especially the Home League, for their love and support. Much respected primary school and music teacher in Marlborough schools. Messages to c/- PO Box 9, Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz Daphne’s funeral service has been held. The service was livestreamed and can be viewed on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services website.
NEAL: David George. 83 years. Died on 9-11-2024. Dearly loved brother of Pauline and friend of Tony. Loved Uncle of Maryanne, Allan and Lynette and families. A golden heart stopped beating, Two smiling eyes at rest, God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes the best. With love, Jan.
NEAL; David George (Dave). Passed away suddenly, November 9th November. Aged 83 years. Dearly loved husband of Janice. Much loved father of Bary and Wendy; and Geoffrey. Loved grandfather to Matthew (deceased), Rachel and Isaac. Messages to c/- PO Box 9, Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz Upholding Dave’s wishes a small private funeral will be held to celebrate his life.
On Thursday November 7th, 2024. Passed away peacefully at Wairau Hospital, Blenheim. Aged 83 years. Dearly loved wife of the late Bloke. Much loved mother and mother-in-law of the late Steven; Nigel and Marie; Mark and Deb. A treasured nana, great nana, friend, team member and workmate. Special thanks to all the staff at Wairau Hospital for their exceptional care of Phyllis. No flowers by request, instead a donation to the Marlborough Hospice Trust, a/c no. 03 1369 0365207 00) ref. Schultz or maybe made at the service. Messages to c/- PO Box 9, Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz A celebration of Phyllis’s life will be held at Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, 15 Boyce Street, Blenheim on Wednesday 13 November at 11am, followed by a private family interment. Phyllis’s service will be livestreamed and can be viewed on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services website.
KENNEDY, David:
On Saturday November 2, 2024, peacefully at Bethsaida Rest Home. In his 92nd year. Dearly beloved husband of Jennifer, muchloved father of John and Janine, Kate and Jan, and Liz and Cookie. Much-loved stepfather of Rebecca and Caroline. Beloved grandfather of Alex, Ollie, and Kari-Moana; Issy, River and Fred; Leilani, and Kahu. Messages may be sent to the Kennedy Family, c/- Bethsaida Rest Home, 66 Litchfield Street, Blenheim 7201. A private celebration of David’s life, in accordance with his wishes, will be held at a later time.
T: 03 578 4719
E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz W: www.sowmans.co.nz
NEWMAN: Larry James
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Larry on the 8th of November 2024. Beloved son of the late Doug and Kath, devoted father to Geoff and Jenny, father in law to Brendan and a proud papa to Jake, Vivi and Beth. Larry’s warmth, kindness and love will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. Messages to c/- PO Box 9, Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Cancer Society of Marlborough, a/c no. 06 0601 0044826 00 Ref, Newman or made at his service, in Larry’s memory. A funeral service for Larry will be held at the Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funerals, 15 Boyce Street, Blenheim on Tuesday 19 November 2024 at 1pm followed by interment at the Upper Wairau Cemetery.
SIMONSEN; Margaret Jean (née Wratt) In the care of Hospice Marlborough, on the 9 November 2024. Peacefully and surrounded by family, after a stoic battle. Loving wife for 61 years of Bobby. Sister and sister-inlaw of Judith and the late John Horton. Mum to Terry and Brenda; and Darren and Tracy. Grandmother to Callum, Jamie, Ella and Charlotte. Aunt and friend to many. Messages to c/- PO Box 9, Blenheim 7240 or www. cloudybayfunerals.co.nz Special thanks to the wonderful staff at Hospice Marlborough for the care and compassion Mum received. Donations to Marlborough Hospice Trust, a/c no. 03 1369 0365207 00 Ref. Simonsen would be appreciated. At Margaret’s request a private family farewell has been held.
PICKETT: Gail Judith
Passed away peacefully Monday, November 4, 2024, at Ashwood Park Retirement Village, aged 68 years. Dearly loved sister, aunt and friend. Special thanks to the staff at Ashwood Park for their care of Gail. Messages may be sent to Pickett family, 634 North Eyre Rd, RD5, Rangiora 7475 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz A memorial service date to be confirmed.
STEEDMAN: Coleen Margaret (née Cotton) Born 6 December 1927 - Died 4 November 2024 Loved wife of the late James Steedman (Jimmy). Loved mum and mother-in-law of Lesley and Paul Delahunty and Bryce and the late Jan. Loved grandmother of her six grandchildren and loved great grandmother of her 10 great grandchildren. Messages to c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www. cloudybayfunerals.co.nz In accordance with Coleen’s wishes, a private funeral service has been held.
Local students swimmingly good
By Chris Valli
The Southern Zone (South Island) Secondary School Open Water Swim Championships held in Nelson recently featured a strong showing from three local students.
Marlborough Girls’ College student Nicola Lovell was first overall
in the 14 – 15 year-old females category while fellow MGC student Jessica Lovell finished second in the 16 – 19 years age bracket and forth overall.
Meanwhile, Marlborough Boys’ College student Finlay McNabb was the fastest of the secondary school competitors and eighth overall win-
ning the 16-19 years category ahead of Finn Bryant from Nelson College.
The race, held at Tahunanui Beach, was the second of the Banana Boat NZ Ocean Swim Series. Two distances were offered in the championships with the ‘Big Tahuna’ 3.2km being the long swim and the ‘Small Tahuna, a 1.3 km swim.
New bridge spans Waihopai River
A new bridge is nearing completion in the Waihopai Valley.
The previous structure was washed away in the July 2021 storm and locals have made do with a temporary Bailey bridge servicing the upper valley since September that year.
Councillor Scott Adams, who chairs Marlborough’s Regional Transport Committee, visited the construction site last week and says he was impressed.
“The new single-lane bridge is 110 metres long with seven spans. It towers nine metres above the river on piles that were sunk 10 metres into the river bed. It’s a very impressive sight and a big improvement on the old bridge infrastructure.”
The new bridge’s location was confirmed in 2022, and land purchase and geotechnical investigations concluded in mid-2023. It was designed and built by Top of the South firm Egypt Ltd.
Meanwhile, Marlborough Roads Manager Steve Murrin says the bridge should be finished early in the new year, if the good weather continued.
“The construction has gone smoothly so far, starting in June this year. The reinforced concrete bridge beams - each weighing 24 tonnes were precast in Nelson and then
air.
delivered on a low-loader and placed by crane from the river bed.”
“We’re also building 500 metres of new road downstream of the bridge, which is located higher up on the terrace to protect it from possible flooding in future. Gravel from the river was crushed on site for roading aggregate by a local subcontractor.”
Steve says the new bridge would be suitable for logging trucks, with all drivers required to use the priority/give way system on its single lane.
The cost of the project was $4 million, which was 95 per cent funded via NZTA’s Financial Assistance Rate following the 2021 storm.
Golf Results
Blenheim Golf Club
31st Oct Par Ezra Kahaki 2 Ray Herd 1 Guido Bertogg 0 Anthony Toa 0 Clice Drummond 0 Duncan Cassidy -1 Tom Bainbridge -1 Don Lamond -2 Chris Abbott -2 9 holes Stableford Mark ?Whittall 20 Ian Hatcher 19 Allen Knight 19 Ross Agnew 17 Mike McConnell 17 David Waters 17 Nov 2nd Medal Gross Ezra Kahaki 68 Nett Brian Yarrall 67 Albertus van Dyk 68 Ezra Kahaki 68 Dave Menzies 68
Volunteer Marlborough transition to remote operations
By Chris Valli
Volunteer Marlborough is making a ‘strategic shift’ by closing their physical office at 1 Market Street and transitioning to a fully remote operational model.
The decision is influenced by the increasing costs associated with maintaining a physical space and aligns with their commitment to maximising the impact of their resources within the community.
Volunteer Marlborough says it aims to increase its presence in the community, allowing staff to engage more directly with local organisations and volunteers.
The board of trustees and staff believe the change will enable the team to be more flexible and responsive to community needs, as well as invest in innovative programmes that make a real difference.
General Manager Meg Martin says they are excited about the possibilities the transition opens up for them.
“Our team will be more mobile, able to meet volunteers and partner organisations wherever they are, respond more quickly to local needs, and invest in programmes and projects that empower our community, channelling our funding where it matters most.”
Volunteer Marlborough says they are excited to announce recent funding granted by Pub Charity, for the purchase of a new vehicle. The addition will enhance their mobility and allow outreach and engagement throughout the region. The
funding granted by Pub Charity has seen the purchase of a new vehicle.
new
a commitment to being active in the
The
During the transition, Volunteer Marlborough remains accessible to all. Staff can be reached via email (vm@ volunteermarlborough.org.nz ), phone (03-577-9388), or through their website (www.volunteermarlborough.org.nz) for those looking to volunteer, organisations seeking support or connections, or businesses interested in community engagement.
For more information about Volunteer Marlborough’s new operating model and how it will benefit the community, please contact Meg Martin (General Manager) at 03-577-9388 or mgr@volunteermarlborough.org.nz
MGC students Nicola and Jess Lovell at the Southern Zone (South Island) Secondary School Open Water Swim Championships held at Tahunanui Beach in Nelson earlier this month.
Volunteer Marlborough is making a ‘strategic shift’ by closing their physical office at 1 Market Street and transitioning to a fully remote operational model. Meanwhile, recent
Councillor Scott Adams (left) and Steve Murrin at the bridge in Waihopai Valley.
The nearly complete new bridge from the
Council backtracks on decision to reject mobile sauna location
By Maia Hart Local Democracy Reporter
A decision to reject a mobile sauna at Shelly Beach in Picton will lie on the table as a potential option, after the deputy mayor admitted he went away and did some homework.
The mobile sauna first parked up in Picton in July, when it opened with a soft launch, but by August it had to close as it did not have consent.
A Marlborough District Council committee in October rejected a proposal to allow the mobile sauna to operate on Shelly Beach, next to the Queen Charlotte Yacht Club, from 4pm to 8pm, year round.
When full council went to signoff that decision at a meeting last Thursday, deputy mayor David Croad suggested the council did not move to reject the idea.
Initially, councillors were told that the Victoria Domain Reserve Management Plan - which included Shelly Beach - did not allow for commercial activity.
Croad said he had since looked at reserve management plans a heck of a lot closer, in particular the one for Victoria Domain.
He said he read the plan cover to cover and thought it was more enabling for commercial activity than the council was first led to believe.
“At the time, I made comment that maybe whilst we were working with the applicant, we should have left that paper on the table, and so that’s my suggestion today,” Croad said at the full council meeting.
He said he understood council staff had made contact with the sauna operator, and they had been investigating the Picton foreshore as an option, as the area had existing concessions.
He thought this should continue.
Wairau-Awatere ward councillor Gerald Hope, who joked that he loved the unexpected, said he was mindful that it could raise an expectation with the sauna operator that the Shelly Beach site was a likely possibility.
“That’s a concern to me,” Hope said.
He asked for clarity around what Croad understood the plan allowed.
Croad said the governor of the reserve, being the council, were able to make a decision to enable an activity.
“That’s step one and step two is the applicant has to go through a resource consent process.”
That resource consent was most
likely publicly notifiable, so the council would get community feedback on any proposal.
“If you think about the sauna in relation to the water and hot-and-cold, and the fact that they want to operate between 4pm and 8pm at night, it’s about a complementary activity rather than a commercial activity that might duplicate something that’s already in town,” Croad said.
He said the council had been worried about setting a precedent, however, the reality was that commercial activity like food carts could be rejected because there were already food options in Picton.
“This activity is obviously new, it’s quite entrepreneurial,” he said. “I’ve done a lot more homework, it exists in many other parts of the country, I think it’s really interesting.”
The full council therefore agreed to let the idea lie on the table instead of rejecting it.
The proposal that initially went to council said in order to operate, two car parking spaces would be needed.
A consent was needed because commercial activity on the site was not permitted under the rules of the Proposed Marlborough Environment Plan.
The Picton foreshore has some existing concessions. PHOTO SUPPLIED: MARLBOROUGH EXPRESS
Deputy mayor David Croad says the management plan for Shelly Beach is more enabling than the council first thought.
