By Chris Valli
Sydney looms in 2025 for Marlborough Girls’ College Year 12 student Eden Somerville. The 17 year-old has been accepted for a two year Performing Arts diploma with Brent Street, Australia’s leading Performing Arts Training Centre.
Story page 8.
By Cathie Bell
Angel Investors Marlborough and its manager Brian Dawson are celebrating after winning awards at the Global Entrepreneurial Network’s New Zealand awards last Thursday evening.
One of the country’s most successful angel investors groups, AIM won Investor of the Year at the awards ceremony in Wellington and Brian Dawson won Connector of the Year.
Brian says it was a thrill to have the work being done in Marlborough recognised.
“Since the group was set up seven years ago by serial founder Richard Coon, AIM has made a real impact, both locally in Marlborough and nationally. Start-up founders looking to access funds and expertise are advised by many in the entrepreneurial ecosystem to pitch to AIM.”
Being recognised the Global Entrepreneurial Network New Zealand was “a huge tribute” to all those in AIM Marlborough who had worked to get start-ups to have the best launch possible, he says.
As manager, Brian is the first point of contact for start-up founders wanting to pitch to AIM members.
With his other roles as manager of Business Trust Marlborough and
administering the local business mentors programme, Brian is deeply embedded in the business community and is able to make great connections between people and businesses. He has been instrumental in the success of many new businesses in Marlborough and throughout the wider community.
Angel Investors Marlborough was set up in 2017, and now has 166 members, with $28million invested in 71 start-ups. It is one of the most active angel investors’ groups in New Zealand.
GEN NZ said Investor of the Year winner Angel Investors Marlborough was relatively new to the angel investing game, but is very active in investing in deals from all over the country.
“They have a tight community with active core members, and have put together a diverse group of investors eager to build the ecosystem, and build business opportunities for the region.
“Marlborough is a small region with a big vision.”
GEN New Zealand (GEN NZ) is the national affiliate of the Global Entrepreneurship Network, a global platform that supports and strengthens entrepreneurship worldwide. It was founded in 2019 to connect and grow the entrepreneurial ecosystem in New Zealand.
By Chris Valli
The Marlborough branch of Earthcare Environmental Ltd has ceased their Green Waste Wheelie Bin service effective immediately.
Earthcare Environmental had branches in Auckland, Waikato, Wairarapa and Marlborough employing up to 120 local staff. It was not known how many Marlborough staff would lose their jobs.
Earthcare Environmental had set up a rubbish and green waste collection service in Marlborough with 80 litre, 120 litre and 240 litre wheelie bins available in August 2015.
The company had the Marlborough District Council contract for rubbish and recycling between 2011 and 2013. Customer Service Manager Wendy Ngaropo says “it is with sadness to advise that they are stopping their Green Waste Wheelie Bin Waste collection service effective immediately.”
“We understand that this may come as a surprise, and we want to assure you that this decision was not made lightly. We shut down our general waste service following the rollout of a mandatory kerbside refuse wheelie bin service by the Marlborough (District) Council. Refuse bins are now provided to all urban households and charges for this service are now included in council rates.
The business began in Auckland in 1989 as a general rubbish company called Greenfingers. Wendy says with the loss of their primary customer base and Council indicating a future council-run green waste bin rollout in the area, the service was no longer viable. The removal of bins took place on Monday, November 25.
However, Marlborough District Council Solid Waste Manager Mark Lucas says Council has not signalled that it will have a green waste bin rolled out in the future.
Council is required to introduce a food scraps collection service by 2030 but not green waste, he says.
Reaction on social media ranged from “at a loss to understand this - we have no way of getting
green waste to Blenheim Transfer Station” to trying other providers such as Picton based Crafar Crouch or Tony’s Trash Truck collection service.
Mark encourages Blenheim Sun readers to take their green waste to the Council operated drop off facility next door to the Blenheim Transfer Station via George Conroy Drive.
In May 2024, a waste disposal levy was introduced under the Waste Minimisation Act 2008. The Government agreed to changes to the Act to allow funding from the central government allocation of the waste disposal levy to be spent on a wider range of environmental activities. The levy raises revenue to fund waste minimisation activities, the Min-
istry for the Environment’s waste and hazardous substances work programme and projects to remediate contaminated sites.
“Half of the levy money goes to city and district councils to spend on promoting or achieving the waste minimisation activities set out in their waste management and minimisation plans,” says Mark.
In November 2021, Smart Environmental and Earthcare Environmental merged, creating New Zealand’s third-biggest waste management company.
At the time the companies said the move would accelerate the growth of a leading-edge circular economy focused organisation, ramping up initiatives to drive recycling and waste minimisation.
In last week’s story about the Marlborough Riding for the Disabled (MRDA) it was stated that 37% of their riders have physical or intellectual disability. This information was taken from the NZRDA website and not the local figures. In Marlborough, 100% of their riders experience disability or have specific challenges or needs. We apologise for the mistake.
Blenheim’s Main Street is in line for pre-Christmas resurfacing in the first week of December. The work will see contractors resurfacing State Highway 1 - Main Street between Elzy and Opawa Streets as part of the State Highway Summer Maintenance Programme. They will remove the existing road surface, complete road repairs, lay new asphalt, and install new line markings. This work will be under a one-lane closure (northbound lane closed) from Sunday, 1 December, until Thursday, 5 December 2024 – between 6 pm and 6 am. State Highway 1 Main Street is a critical transport link, and it carries over 11,000 vehicles daily, so regular maintenance is essential for its ongoing resilience and safety.
Homicide investigation launched
A homicide investigation has been launched after a woman was located deceased at a property on Muller Road, Blenheim yesterday. Police were notified around 8:30am. A 55-year-old man was due to appear in the Blenheim District Court yesterday, charged with murder. Police are not seeking anyone further in relation to this incident.
The largest range of engineering supplies in the top of the South Island. Bearings, O-rings, mechanical seals, pneumatics, V-belts, stays, welders, tools, trailer components, wheels & castors, oils & lubes, safety gear, first aid kits. Nobody does bearings and engineering better than the team at Bearings & Accessories
Roundabouts to be wrapped up for Christmas
The end of construction is in sight for new roundabouts being built on State Highway 6 near Marlborough Airport.
The project is delivering improvements to the highway between Woodbourne and Springlands with work ongoing since the beginning of this year.
It has seen the construction of two new roundabouts. One at the intersection of SH6, Saint Leonards Road, and Bells Road - and a second at the intersection of Tancred Crescent and State Highway 6. Both roundabouts will improve access onto and across State Highway 6.
The project is about to enter its final stages, with sealing work planned to begin at the end of this week and finish in early December. Both roundabouts will be surfaced with an ultra-fine seal that is best for skid resistance and improving driver safety.
A man has died in hospital after being attacked by a shark.
Emergency services were called around midday last Tuesday, following reports the man who had been diving off a boat had been critically injured.
He was rushed to Chatham Island Hospital, but has since died.
The death will be referred to the Coroner.
By Chris Valli
There was Maori culture and kapa haka inspired smiles far and wide for the residents at Springlands Lifestyle Village last Thursday.
Indeed, the performers and tamariki from Seymour Kindergarten turned up, did the mahi and were pretty excited about their performance.
About 30 of the kindergarten children performed waiata as part of their kapa haka performance including the use of poi and pukana to the fore, which had the residents smiling from ear to ear, relishing in the cultural entertainment.
Kim Ng one of the mothers of the tamariki who performed, works at the Lifestyle Village and suggested they would be a great fit for an afternoon’s entertainment.
For resident Kathleen Marden, who grew up in Manchester in the United Kingdom, seeing the tamariki took her back to when she was a dancer at school, prompting “happy, happy memories.”
Paula Hughes is the Lifestyle Village Diversional Therapist and it’s her responsibility to design and run recreation and leisure pro-
grammes to support and enhance the resident’s well-being. She says the performance bought the residents much happiness. “It’s educational, they love it and it brings them calm,” she says. “It fulfills their day and makes them happy. I love making them smile and seeing them happy at an amazing time in their lives
through song.”
The Bohally kapa haka group also performed for the Springlands Lifestyle residents in June to coincide with Matariki.
“It was so lovely to be able to perform for the senior citizens and to see the smiles and excitement on their faces. We are hoping we can visit the village regularly and
perform, our tamariki love it and they are so confident in front of an audience,” Head teacher Char Morrison says.
“This year we performed at the Taiopenga Cultural festival in October we were the first up of the festival. It is always a lovely experience for our Tamariki, to dress up and perform.”
Greypower believes electricity is a basic human right and it must remain affordable for their vulnerable Marlborough seniors.
The comment comes after electricity bills are certain to rise in 2025 as the higher costs of generating and distributing power are passed to all consumers and especially for retirees. The Commerce Commission last week says grid operator Transpower and most electricity distribution companies could earn $17.4 billion in revenues in the period from April 2025 to March 2030.
“This represents an increase of nearly 50 percent compared to the current five-year regulatory period which ends in March next year,” said Blenheim based Grey Power NZ President Gayle Chambers.
The $5.5 billion uplift must be recovered from consumers, as there is no other current mechanism for lines companies to reclaim this money.
“This massive increase in lines charges comes as seniors struggle to adjust to the end of low-user fixed charges, which restricted the fixed daily charge for low users to 30 cents a day. The daily cap is now $1.20 and will rise again in April, to $1.50 a day.
Gayle says eventually the cap will be removed, meaning that in 2027 retailers will likely put all their residential customers, low users and high users, on a similar daily charge, typically about $2 to $2.50 a day.
“In other words what used to be a $4.50 a month fixed charge on a low-user’s bill, will increase to about $70 a month. And that’s not the final bill, which also includes the variable cost of power, levies, and GST. Adding to the pain for retirees living on fixed incomes, there are other significant bill pressures on the way,” she says.
Wholesale power prices have been on an upward trajectory since 2018 says Gayle.
“From levels at about seven cents per kilowatt hours in 2018, hedged wholesale power was 18 cents per kW hr in September 2024. In real terms, this is a doubling in the cost of generation, an expense which is passed by retailers to their customers,” she says. “With increases in power bills, Grey Power will continue to advocate strongly for all seniors.”
Gayle believes electricity is a basic human right and it must remain affordable for their vulnerable seniors, either through income support such as an enhanced
winter energy payment, improvements to the capricious wholesale electricity market, or incentives for regulated lines companies to invest more of their owners’ money in upgrades.
“Grey Power would also strongly urge the commission to drive cost efficiencies into lines businesses and Transpower. The current mechanisms for encouraging savings through cost-cutting are not working, so monopolies are given a pot of money to spend with little incentive to lower costs through efficiency gains.
“We know the importance of reliable and resilient electricity, and it’s not free, but the cost pressures are piling on our members. Grey Power will be raising these points at upcoming stakeholder forums that its invited to, and in its next round of meetings with Government ministers,” Gayle says.
Blenheim based Grey Power NZ President Gayle Chambers says what used to be a $4.50 a month fixed charge on a low-user’s bill will increase to about $70 a month, adding to the pain for retirees living on fixed incomes, there are other significant bill pressures on the way.
Tech hub management contract signed
Innovate Marlborough, Council’s Economic Development Team, has announced the signing of a management contract for the Marlborough Tech and Innovation Hub.
Whiringa Ltd will run the hub’s day-today operations and parts of the region’s activation programme such as tech and innovation meetups, TechWeek participation and courses for the startup community in Marlborough.
The hub is based on the top floor of the former library on the corner of Arthur and Seymour streets. A fit-out is currently underway, which will allow for 24 desks and a number of offices and meeting rooms. The Marlborough Tech and Innovation Hub was supported by Kanoa regional investment fund.
Foodstuffs co-ops appeal
Foodstuffs South Island (FSSI) is standing firm in their belief that uniting into one nationwide co-op will help deliver better prices at the checkout, and will appeal the Commerce Commission’s decision to decline clearance for their merger. The co-ops share ownership of the country’s most-trusted grocery retail brands - PAK’nSAVE, New World, Four Square, and Pams, as well as On the Spot in the South Island.
The FSSI board have subsequently decided to file a Notice of Appeal with the High Court stating that the Commission’s decision is wrong and that the clearance should have been granted, as the merger will not substantially lessen competition in any market.
Britney Spears Fantasy Midnight.
Angela Cayford Blenheim
Nicki Minaj Pink Friday – not sure if you can still get it.
Chris Hughes Blenheim
Yes I like wearing Britney Spears brands – Fantasy is my favourite.
Courtney Capener Blenheim
I sadly don’t have a celebrity fragrance as the kids steal all my dosh – I do like Eilish Eau de Parfum.
I’ve used Katy Perry for a long time. It’s a nice fragrance and isn’t expensive.
Letters on issues of community interest are welcomed. A maximum of 150 words please.
They must be signed and a street address provided to show good faith, even when a nom de plume is provided for publication.
The editor reserves the right to
abridge letters or withhold letters from publication. Email them to news@blenheimsun. co.nz or present to our office at 72 High St.
Please note that your name and street address MUST be provided with emails.
Congratulations to the police for taking this action against this insult to the memories of those killed in the most barbaric way possible on October 7 and to the hostages still held in appalling conditions after 13 months.
It is also obscene to associate the swastika with the victims and survivors of the genocide of six million Jews in the 20th century and the latest program.
In answer to Peter Mathyssen, there is no genocide of Palestinians taking place. Ammunition caches, bombs, missiles, arms and booby traps are all located in and near homes, mosques, schools and hospitals making a high casualty
rate inevitable in such a densely populated area. In addition Hamas fight in civilian clothes making it nearly impossible to identify targets correctly or to separate civilian from terrorist deaths in the statistics. The terror tunnels that Hamas built could be used to provide safety for their people, if they so choose.
Israel is fighting a war it did not start for its very existence. Hamas have sworn to destroy Israel and kill every Jew, a threat often repeated by its leaders. The propaganda war against Israel started even before Israel had time to respond to the attack.
Peter Auret
MARLBOROUGH FOODBANK APPEAL: Ray White Picton’s Hiram Taylor, Jess Rea, Michaela McClintock and two-year-old Blake Cunniffe with their food donation on Monday night. Over 50 trailer loads of food was collected from the community, supporting the Marlborough Foodbank with over 350 volunteers out in the community collecting, packing in the heat of the foodbank room. Photo: Chris Valli.
A failed water main on the Sinclair Street bridge will be replaced. November’s Assets and Services Committee heard that the water main in the deck/footpath of the bridge had failed. A leak was identified in July and further investigation found a split in the pipe at the deck and road interface.
Operations and Maintenance Service
Engineer Stephen Rooney said the pipeline had been isolated to stop water loss and potential damage to roading infrastructure but that meant reduced water flow to the Mayfield and Riversdale areas.
“This is an area where there is movement between the bridge deck and the flexible roading pavementthe underside of the pipe has split at this point,” his report to the committee said.
“If it is not replaced there may be lower than desired water pressure in these areas during summer and it may also impact on firefighting capacity,” he said.
An estimate for the replacement is $350,000, given the repair was likely to be complex, requiring replacement
Got a great idea for the future of Marlborough? Marlborough District Council wants to hear your ideas and feedback as part of its Annual Plan public engagement starting this week. Simply go online on your smart phone or a computer at links.marlborough. govt.nz/haveyoursay and tell us about your big idea or worthwhile project. The engagement closes on 20 January 2025. The engagement process uses userfriendly software to help people submit their idea. You can also vote on what you think about other people’s ideas. Your ideas on how we achieve our community outcomes will be analysed and presented to the Council’s budget meeting in April 2025.
Council has improved the way it undertakes annual planning, in an effort to get early community input in a simple way, particularly feedback and ideas on the services and projects proposed in next year’s Annual Plan, which covers the period 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026.
The next full public consultation will be for the Long Term Plan 2027-37, with a public engagement process expected to begin in November 2026. Council will continue to consult the community on other proposed projects and service changes, such as the Water Services Delivery Plan.
Anyone wanting help to provide their ideas online is welcome to call Council’s Customer Service Centre; Ph: 03 520 7400 or email ltp@marlborough.govt.nz
Sign up for annual and long term plan updates at www.marlborough.govt.nz/ your-council/long-term-and-annual-planspolicies-and-reports/annual-long-termplan-notifications
Traffic
Armistice Day was marked in Blenheim with a ceremony at Seymour Square, beginning with a flypast.
Mayor Nadine Taylor welcomed those gathered before short addresses from Wing Commander Michele Mitchell, Base Commander at RNZAF Base Woodbourne and Lieutenant Stu Edwards RN from the British High Commission.
Kyla Thorstensen from Marlborough Girls’ College sang the national anthem and wreaths were laid, poppies placed, prayers said and the Last Post played.
The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month (11am on 11 November) is when hostilities ceased on the Western Front in 1918 following the signing of the armistice.
Twice each year, Council gardeners plant thousands of annuals in the flower beds of Seymour Square. With summer nearly here, it’s time for them to be removed and beds prepared for replanting.
Next week, the poppies, wallflowers, forget-me-nots, violas and calendulas will be given away to those who need
some colour in their garden. Come along on Monday 2 December from 8am to 10am with your own fork and containers.
In the event of rain, the event will be postponed to the following day, Tuesday 3 December. Council gardeners will be on site to help.
Students from four Marlborough primary schools have put their artistic skills to work, creating a collection of welcoming posters for the region’s newest arrival of RSE workers.
Council’s Welcoming Communities programme led the project, working alongside NZ Ethical Employers, REAP Marlborough, Vakameasina, Wine Marlborough and Whiringa Ltd to bring it to life.
Many local businesses are now displaying the welcoming posters, created by students from Springlands, Redwoodtown, Fairhall and Wairau Valley schools. Welcoming Communities Coordinator Heather Barnes says the initiative was a chance to welcome incoming RSE workers and acknowledge the vital work they do for our wine sector, and in turn our regional economy.
“These workers are a long way from home, in a completely new environment and this was just one way we could make an effort to show them they are appreciated here in Marlborough and let them know we’re glad they’re here,” she says.
“The students did a fantastic job and it was great to have the support of so many local organisations and businesses as well as the schools and teachers.”
You can check out the posters at a variety of businesses in Blenheim including Backdoor, Macpac, Kathmandu, Sole’d, Mitchell Sports, SaveMart, Night and Day, New World, Hendersons alongside some of the second-hand shops around town and the Health Hub.
Hortus, Pinoli and Vinepower are also proudly displaying their posters to welcome their newest residents.
Eden Somerville, 17, has been accepted for a two year Performing Arts diploma with Brent Street, Australia’s leading Performing Arts Training Centre in Sydney. Eden talks to Chris Valli about the amazing opportunity.
When one first meets the 17 yearold Eden Somerville, there is an infectious enthusiasm - an enthusiasm, bursting at the seams with a new-found self-confidence. The 17 year-old is building a Performing Arts resume that reflects not only the talent but the dedication of someone who loves what they do.
The 2024 arts year saw her take the lead as Elle Woods in the combined college production of Legally Blonde and not surprisingly, top in class for Performing Arts.
“Getting that role I was ecstatic. I remember watching Grease when I was little and my dream was to be the lead in one of the school productions, I thought it was so out of my reach…it was surreal and a great opportunity.”
At the Marlborough Girls’ College Cultural Prizegiving, Eden was recognised as the Cultural Performer of the Year while, at the recent Senior Prizegiving, she showcased her academic abilities receiving a Premier Award – the Bartlett Cup for merit in class and field.
She has recently been part of Blenheim Musical Theatre’s Addams Family Musical, playing the dancing role in the ensemble and in early December plays Jovie in Te Tauihu Performing Arts Studio’s performance of Elf at the ASB Theatre. Which brings the ‘news element’ to the narrative.
Eden has been accepted for a two year diploma after auditioning online for Sydney based Brent Street, Australia’s leading Performing Arts Training Centre. There’s no irony lost that when we catch up, Men at Work’s Down Under is playing on the radio in the Oakwood Lane home.
For over 35 years Brent Street has been a leader in performance arts, training countless working professionals across all genres of the industry, offering classes for pre-schoolers, recreational classes,
elite training classes and a Performing Arts High School.
Founded in 1986, Brent Street is known for producing some of Australia’s top performing artists. Students at Brent Street often appear in major musicals, plays, and on television. The Brent Street Dance Group of 30 students appeared on America’s Got Talent this year receiving a golden buzzer.
Eden says she knew what she wanted to do after college saying she really wanted to study musical theatre. I went online and looked at all the Australian schools and knew I had to leave New Zealand.
“It’s the likes of Jeannie and Con O’Brien who have helped me along the way.”
“A lot of the musical theatre programmes I read mentioned the performers trained at Brent Street, it looks awesome,” she says. “We’ll be doing all genres of dance like jazz, tap, and ballet technique, contemporary and singing classes and acting workshops.”
When Eden arrives in Sydney, late January, she has arranged student accommodation to initially get settled in the Darling Harbour area.
Eden has been dancing since she was two and has always loved dance. Upon arriving from Auckland in Blenheim with family, singing and “the theatre side of it” and through Te Tauihu Performing Arts Studio (formerly Dance on Grove), a seed was sown and is subsequently flourishing.
“Jeannie Mark she really got me into the musical theatre side of everything,” she says. “I was always into drama but
more just dance based or school kapa haka and choir. It’s the likes of Jeannie and Con O’Brien who have helped me along the way.”
“I used to be an Alto but now I can sing Soprano (highest vocal range), Con has helped me transition and helped me get ready for a role, like I did with School of Rock (combined colleges in 2023).”
Proud Mum Renee, who treaded
the boards in BMT’s Les Miserables in 1995 in the ensemble and as a backing vocal in BMT’s Priscilla Queen of the Desert in 2022, says Eden has “always been a performer.”
“I will miss her heaps but I wouldn’t want her to miss the opportunity by sitting around for another year at school, she may as well do it now, while she is on
top, it’s what she wants to do. She has achieved so much already. I couldn’t be any more proud.”
“I’m very excited,” says Eden.
“But I’m really aware of the amount of work I’m going to have to put in, it’s going to be hard but I’m passionate about it and try to get where I want and need to be.”
“I’m very determined and have always made goals for myself.”
By Chris Valli
A group of like-minded advocates from Marlborough gathered for an event recently called “It’s Up to Us” to explore and discuss avenues to address bullying in schools. A number of children attended the event and some shared their testimonies, describing the negative impact on their learning and self-esteem resulting from their having been exposed to chronic abuse by their peers at school.
The group plans to spread their message nationwide and rally support for new, community-driven approaches for dealing with the current dire situation.
Concerned observer and facilitator Robyn Hutchison says the event was aimed at the wider community. “It was gratifying to have two middle school children in attendance whose input highlighted the importance of providing safe spaces for young people to share their experiences and perspectives,” she says.
Robyn says the adults who attended had many stories to share of their experience with primary and college age incidents of bullying. “While we had hoped for greater youth participation, this meeting served as a first step to engage the community in addressing school bullying,” she says.
The meeting was primarily aimed at bringing together adults - parents, grandparents, volunteers, educators, and other stakeholders - to discuss strategies for preventing bullying and they would hope to attract the attention of like-minded community groups such as Life Education Trust Marlborough.
Strategies discussed included developing awareness campaigns to encourage reporting of bullying and the community at large to stand up and say no to bullying. Other strategies discussed establishing peer support programmes within schools and strengthening collaboration between schools, families, and the community.
Robyn says schools have a ‘Duty of Care’ to provide a safe learning environment for children in their care and questioned why does school bullying continue relatively unchecked?
The group of advocates is exploring the nationwide integration of the KiVa Programme—a very successful and globally recognised, evidence-based initiative for bullying prevention—into local schools. The KiVa Programme focuses on shifting school culture to prevent bullying by emphasising empathy, inclusion, and active intervention. Perhaps, once further information and a clearer picture in this regard are available, a follow-up article would be worthy of consideration.
In 2022, calls for anti-bullying programmes to be compulsory in New Zealand schools were reported amidst what has been described as a growing epidemic. With David Seymour’s current focus on the Truancy Crisis in his role as Associate Minister of Education, perhaps an investigation would reveal that bullying is a significant factor in young children choosing not to attend school, believes Robyn. If Blenheim Sun readers are inspired to be a part of the movement. Email stopbullyingnz2024@gmail.com.
Ngaire, like many grandparents, enjoys staying active and keeping up with her family.
“You get to a stage where you realise, gosh, I’m not quite as young as I was. I can’t do what I used to do, and steps are a bit of an effort,” Ngaire shared.
She discovered Koru FX on Facebook while browsing for family updates.
“I’m on Facebook because that seems to be the only way to get photos of your grandchildren,” Ngaire joked.
When she came across an ad for Koru FX, she thought it might be worth a try.
“I sometimes read the ads and I thought, oh, it might be worth a try, and it was a good try,” she recalled happily.
Ngaire was surprised by how quickly the cream worked.
“I woke up and my right leg was aching, so I stretched out, got
the cream, plastered it all over, and lay in bed for maybe another quarter of an hour,” she explained.
“I kind of forgot about it, but it’s very quick, almost gives sort of instant relief.”
After experiencing such effective results, Ngaire became a firm believer in Koru FX.
“I would never have believed when I was buying it that I would be so pleased with the results.”
“It’s reassuring to know that what I’m using is made right here in New Zealand and with natural ingredients. You just feel better about what you’re putting on your body.”
For those considering a natural solution to support their joints and muscles, Ngaire recommends giving Koru FX a try.
“You’ve got to try it yourself to see if it works. I’d say, why not give it a shot? You might be pleasantly surprised. I know I
Concerned observer and facilitator Robyn Hutchison says by working closely with schools and community stakeholders they aim to raise awareness of the programme and connect them with the relevant teams to implement the framework and strategies against bullying.
Introducing He Waka Kuaka - our workplace reo development programme Designed for central & local government agencies, businesses and community organisations, this programme offers progressive courses, delivered in 10 week blocks, during work hours $280+GST pp
Email: hewakakuaka@tereomaori org
Website: www tereomaori org
“The learning that happens in the real, as opposed to the virtual, classroom is unparalleled ”
was!” Ngaire’s story is just one of many. Over 60,913 New Zealanders have already experienced the fast-acting comfort and support of Koru FX for themselves.
It contains high-quality essential oils like arnica, calendula, manuka, and black pepper. These natural ingredients work
together to provide a soothing formulation for when you need that extra support.
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.
Fostering Health & Well-being within the Pelorus Area Local Solutions for Local Problems
Pelorus Area Health Trust
want to acknowledge all the hard work and dedication that our volunteers put into making PAHT, the Havelock Charity Shops and the Pelorus Community Lounge such a success.
We are always welcoming of new volunteers to join us in the lounge, the shops, behind the scenes, gardening, delivering or even working from home.
Contact Odette 03 574 1356
Glenda - Chair PAHT - 022 105 4672 PAHTcoordinater@outlook.com
Want to put some aroha into your mahi? Volunteer with the CAB.
Our service of free confidential information and advice is delivered by 2,000 volunteers throughout the country – do you want to be one of them?
You will help people to understand their rights and to access services and support. You will help them with information and options so they can find a way forward. What’s involved?
You will work as part of an amazing team and be equipped with training and resources. You will support CAB clients with information and advice on a range of issues. You
Donna Kerridge
Alzheimers
Alzheimers
mai mō
Ngā Pou Whkakwhirinaki
Want to make a difference in people’s lives?
Do you have an inquiring mind and a few hours a week?
To
might also help with other aspects of running the CAB.
What’s the time commitment?
Most volunteers help for one shift each week, generally 2-3 hours. Volunteers also commit to initial training and ongoing learning.
What skills do I need?
You need to be a good communicator, be patient, welcoming, and able to treat our diverse clients with dignity and respect. You need to be comfortable using a computer and doing research using our database.
To make a difference in people’s lives, or for more information please contact CAB.
The Thymebank team and other amazing local businesses are once again getting behind the Women’s Refuge. As we approach the festive season, these businesses rally together, collect donated goods, pack them into special Christmas Boxes and distribute them to the families that are in the Women’s Refuge system at this time of the year.
“We have had some amazing support in the past from a myriad of local businesses and we are fortunate to have support from many of them again this year,” Karen Ramsay from Thymebank says.
“If any local businesses out there are able to donate any goods for the Christmas Boxes, we would love to have you on-board. This
year there are 50 families in need so we are collecting donations on Monday 2nd December for packing on Tuesday 3rd December. You are also welcome to drop any donations off to us here at 31 Hammerichs Road. Please give us a call on 035779499 or email orders@ thymebank.co.nz with the details of your donation and if you are able to drop it off or would like us to collect.”
There will be a letter in each box with a full list of the donors involved, and also a post on the Women’s Refuge and Thymebank Facebook pages.
“We would love to have you behind this initiative and look forward to your support with this,” Karen says.
Maternal
The Pelorus Mail Boat has been operating for more than a century. As a sea postie for a day, you’ll cruise through the most remote part of the Marlborough Sounds – Pelorus Sound/Te Hoiere.
Learn about local history, the mussel industry and stories of the people who live and work in this fascinating area. Relax on our spacious catamaran and marvel at the stunning scenery of clear blue water in tranquil coves and bush-clad hillsides. Meet some of the residents who await the Pelorus Mail Boat and keep an eye out for marine wildlife along the way.
Use code SUN10 for 10% off on trips taken before 31 Dec 2024.
www.themailboat.co.nz
Lochmara is a locally owned and operated small waterfront resort.
Come and enjoy a way of life, noting there is no road access, although we can easily arrange water transport for you from Picton on the Lochmara Water Taxi. Lochmara also has a scenic 3.5km walking track to the world-famous Queen Charlotte Track. We offer exceptional accommodation, day trips, and you can add an Underwater Observatory tour to your day, which is one of only two in New Zealand. Join us for a day, a meal, or a longer stay and you’ll soon realise Lochmara truly is...”Once Discovered... Never Forgotten”.
Visit www.lochmara.co.nz for more information or phone 03 573 4554
Nestled at the end of Waterfall Bay is the Waterfall Bay Boathouse, a delightful escape just for two. Opened only last year it has already proven popular with our guests and offers something different.
Full of charm and rustic appeal it features a covered veranda looking out through the trees to the Bay beyond. Inside the one room you will find a comfy king sized bed, old leather armchairs in front of the fireplace and a table just for two. There is a commercial kitchen that has been reconfigured for guest use. An inside bathroom leads out onto a deck complete with a bath and, nearby, an outdoor shower. For more photos and information check out our website, waterfallbay.nz and select Boathouse. There is also a very comfortable 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom rental cottage on the property which is ideal for family or friends to enjoy.
www.waterfallbay.nz | 163 Onahau Road, Onahau Bay
Located in the heart of Havelock, The Gallery Havelock invites you to visit our two storey art gallery which showcases over 25 local Marlborough artists. Works featured are a wide array of mediums including oil and acrylic paintings, photography, mixed media, prints, sculptures, ceramics, jade carving, woodwork, jewellery and felt art. This is a must see destination when visiting the beautiful Pelorus Sounds.
Ph: 03 574 2821 | thegalleryhavelock@gmail.com www.thegalleryhavelock.com 60 Main Road, Havelock | Open: 10am - 4pm daily
Where’s a good place to do a car service and they actually do the work on your car without trying to up sell and fill and tell you what they done, if they have.
What a town Blenheim has become. Urgently needed to get to district nurse, no parks outside so had to park at first park available. In there 10 minutes for a $70 parking fine. A great place to avoid is Blenheim central.
There is a shortage of people across all industries. Everyone is looking for staff. Supermarkets are no exception. You seem to suggest that paying staff more would solve this, but I bet you’ll be the first to complain when prices go up as a result.
The planting of trees has been on Councils agenda. Very nice too. But if they’re not watered very soon my money will have again been frittered away.
PS also advised by letter from said Council I was going to get a tree planted on my berm. Must be a “Scotch Mist” variety or I need to go to Specsavers.
Catching up on past Sun issues I read the above text from 23/10/24 edition thinking to myself I know which bar I would place a bet on for Regulars Table of the Year, this bars regulars can discourage ten people a day from joining them at their table, especially now we are entering the summer drinking season, their lead drinker alone discourages at least three a day.
TAB here I Come !!!
It’s a shame that Paddy feels he needs to stoop to a level where the title of his show includes the word f*cking. Also ironic that this word is plastered everywhere in its spoken form, but I felt the need to replace the ‘u’ with a ‘*’ to ensure my text is printed. So we’re happy to f-bomb everywhere, but printing it is still taboo. Funny...
Can someone enlighten me as to what is happening at east side of Wairau hospital grounds re all the tree felling.
There was talk a while ago of development. I either missed it or it wasn’t announced anywhere.
I was under the impression the land was gifted to the people of Marlborough so l hope whatever is going on will benefit said ratepayers etc.
It is evident many drivers don’t know what a ‘Stop’ sign means. Just look at the Weld and Cleghorn St intersection for the constant breaches and what would be a great revenue gathering source.
But there’s also another - the most important road rule of all - Keep Left. Drivers don’t know how to do this, especially when there is no centre line, such as Scott and Weld Streets and Howick Road.
I twice narrowly avoided collisions during last week by vehicles on the incorrect side of the road coming towards me. Please, drivers, be more aware of the rules.
So many posts online about missing pets or ones that are frequenting other peoples houses who aren’t their owners. It’ll happen for sure but it does annoy me when it’s a young cat or dog.
Don’t the owners realise you can’t just let them out straight away. They need to be kept in to familiarise themselves first for a period of time.
Call me old fashioned but affording a lunch for your child to take to school should be a parents responsibility. Not the governments.
I know times are tough but all decent parents will feed their child before themselves if necessary. In a heartbeat. Not saying this applies to all cases, but we all know some buy ‘other things’ unnecessarily before putting food on the table.
I think it’s a disgrace when a journalist is writing a news item regarding the Hikoi in regards to the Treaty Bill, and they cannot even spell the Prime Ministers name correctly! Did someone say the education system in this country needs fixing?
The ferries are getting louder; every weekday morning they rumble and wake me up at 5.30am. Can a noise barrier wall be erected for noise protection? This is a health and safety consideration for the local community.
If we see a gang patch in public do we ring 111 or is there a special number to call?
As a member of the public I commend the police for removing the pro palestine signage at the railway station. These protests are staged close to a very busy roundabout and the flying flags and inflammatory signage are a dangerous distraction to motorists. The Nazi swastika is the last straw. We don’t need this level of hatred promoted in our town.
Some of us prefer to use the self checkouts. I prefer not waiting in a queue, while the old biddies have their weekly natter.
My Son is one of those that are working on the construction of the roundabout and I can assure readers it’s no 9-4 situation.
He’s up before 5.30am and gone soon after for a 6.30 tailgate meeting (that’s planning the days activities) then on site well before many are even out of bed.
He’s responsible for the contract being on time, on budget and done safely, all of which are running to plan. There’s heaps done behind the scene which most are unaware of. He’s seldom home before 7.30pm after arranging the following days deliveries, staff placement and work schedules.
I bet he wishes it were a 9-4 job, I know his family would. Doing 60-70 hrs during the week, I think they are entitled to weekends and nights off and no, he didn’t design it.
As one of the older generation I recently underwent elective surgery at Wairau and could not fault the care and respect shown to me during my stay. Many thanks to all. We are so lucky to have this great facility and need to support those in the health sector who are under such pressure.
Along the narrow concrete path beside the Taylor River some electric and racing bikes travel at the speed of cars. Walkers and their dogs are often frightened and at risk of serious injury. How about a speed limit on bikes on this path?
Shame on the person scanning potatoes as mushrooms! This is stealing, nothing to be proud of. Supermarket staff watch for these thieves please.
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.
Are chips the new honeypot for luring customers to drinking establishments, one bar I know offers chips as a happy hour attraction, a friend informs me a bar he uses place two large plates of chips on the locals table, evidently the table is surrounded within twenty seconds of the chips being placed there, sounds like they need a security guard at the table, sorted !!!
Across: 1. Lessen, 5. Beacon, 10. Express, 11. Cortege, 12. Thrice, 15. Tirade, 16. Habitat, 17. Tart, 18. Bode, 19. Stealth, 20. Ruby, 22. Taps, 25. Tedious, 27. Sunken, 28. Mirror, 31. Scallop, 32. Outline, 33. Chorus, 34. Sprint. Down: 2. Emperor, 3. Stench, 4. Nosy, 5. Bach, 6. Adroit, 7. Oregano, 8. Beat it, 9. Revere, 13. Earthen, 14. Titanic, 15. Tantrum, 20. Resist, 21. Beneath, 23. Arraign, 24. Survey, 25. Teller, 26. Sister, 29. Apes, 30. Cons.
(7)
(6)
25. Bank clerk (6)
26. Sibling (6)
29. Imitates (4)
30. Tricks (4)
www.thepuzzlecompany.co.nz
Savour in the Park
the third Savour in the Park musical event was staged at Churchill Glade, Pollard Park on Saturday. the blenheim spring weather played its part with locals enjoying headline act the Jordan Luck band with supporting act Danger 80’s. they were also joined by local acts John Nelson and Qarni.
•
Are you a dog or cat person?
I couldn’t choose, I am obsessed with both.
Favourite global cuisine?
Mexican - shout out to Little Amigos in Redwoodtown!
What would you buy if money was no object?
I would donate a heap of it to mental health charities and local organisations who support our rangatahi, they are doing amazing work on the smell of an oily rag.
Celebrity-wise who would be at your dream dinner party?
My daughters are huge Swifties so it would have to be Taylor Swift.
Veggies or fruit?
Fruit, especially in summer.
The shop you can’t walk past is...? Spotlight or any craft store.
If you didn’t live in Marlborough where would you choose?
I recently spent some time on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland and I could definitely see myself living that life permanently.
Favourite programme or series currently watching?
I love Outlander and I am currently re-watching it in preparation for the new season release.
What do you do for your own mental health?
I talk it out with my family and friends, which always helps the most. Listen to music and sing at the top of my lungs, go for a mental health walk, spend time with my animals, have a good cry, work on a crochet project, listen to a true crime podcast.
What’s your favourite colour?
Teal or pink.
If you had to choose another job what would it be? Forensic psychologist.
What truly matters to you?
The health and happiness of my whānau and friends.
The best advice I ever received was?
My dad has always said trust your gut and I always do.
My friends would say I am… Always there when they need me, and funny, hopefully.
With Christmas looming one’s mind turns to sorting out what gifts and tokens we will give to family and friends.
Most readers of these columns are gardeners or budding gardeners so we tend to look for suitable gifts that would bring us pleasure and hopefully the same for the recipient.
For a long time I have firmly believed that it is the thought and effort that goes into a gift that makes it most memorable.
For instance if you pop down to your local garden centre and pick out a nice container, plus a feature plant such as a bush rose and a punnet of cascading lobelia or similar plus a bag of compost; you have the makings of a gift that you have thought about and made a nice effort to achieve.
When you get your goodies home you simply place some of the compost into the container to the right height for planting the specimen plant, ensuring that there will be a gap of about 2-3cm between the top of the mix and the rim of the container. This allows ease of watering.
You can add some Unlocking your Soil, blood & bone and sheep manure pellets to the compost for enrichment.
After removing the specimen plant from its pot or bag check to see if the roots have spiraled around the bottom of the old container. The more roots means the longer it has been growing in the old pot.
If there is a mass of roots then with a pair of secateurs cut a 2cm slash into the bottom roots at the four cardinal points.
This allows for quicker root establishment. If the plant has been for a long time in the old pot it will have a massive root system and be what we call pot bound.
If this is the case then you take a cross cut saw and cut off the bottom one quarter of the roots which will remove all those spiral roots.
This method is applied to all perennial potted plants every 2-3 years and allows the plant to be repotted back into its original container, with some fresh compost at the base, to replace the area where the roots have been cut off.
Back to our Xmas present - sit the plant on the bottom mix and fill the space between the plant’s mix and
the side of the container with more compost. It is in this area of back fill that you will plant your lobelia seedlings.
The reason that I have not suggested to use potting mix or shrub and tub mix is because they are inferior to using a good friable compost.
Potting mixes are great for indoor plants where the extra expense is justified, they are also good for seed raising and cutting propagation.
For container plants outdoors you want a growing medium that has some guts and a friable compost that has animal manure with bark fines or similar.
Potting mix is only bark fines or peat moss with some slow release fertiliser added, it dries out too quickly, can be difficult to re-water and lacks the goodness that healthy plants need, outdoors.
Once you have your Xmas gift all potted up, place it in a sheltered spot where it only has early morning sun or late afternoon sun. Water it to keep it moist but do not over water.
You can grow a number of plants as above for friends and family to show your appreciation of them at the festive time.
A lady gardener I was talking to sometime ago, told me that she purchased a small tree for her young grandson as a gift a few years back.
He was told that it was his tree and he helped in the planting of it in her garden. Every time he comes to visit he runs down to see how his tree is and tells everyone that it is his tree.
What a great idea for a young person and this could be extended by giving and planting a fruit tree so not only does the child get to watch the progress of their tree but they will, in years to come, enjoy the fruits as well.
We need to get our children and grandchildren involved in nature and gardening - this is a simple and interesting way to do so.
Gardening Gift Vouchers are a very acceptable gift for novice and seasoned gardeners alike.
Gift Vouchers give the receiver two lots of pleasure, the initial receiving of the voucher and then the pleasure of shopping for a garden product or specimen.
As the Gardening Gift vouchers come in several nominations you
can slip a $5 or $10 voucher in with a Xmas card as a neat inexpensive gift.
At Xmas times, my books such as ‘Gardening With Wallys Richards ’ has proved very popular with gardeners that received a copy as a gift. Copies are available through Mail order from www.0800466464.co.nz
My other book still in print called Wallys Glasshouse Gardening for NZ is ideal for those with or contemplating a glasshouse. I autograph the books and can place a suitable personal message.
How about sharing the secret with a family member or friend on why your gardeners and plants are so great? Just give them a bottle of Magic Botanic Liquid (MBL) so they too can have such gardening success as you have.
Another good one for children that would like to give a gift to their young friends is to take them down to your garden centre and let them pick out a few ‘Colour Spots’ (flowering annuals in pots or bags). These can be potted into inexpensive larger plastic pots and gift wrapped for their friends.
The key to giving any gift, is the thought that goes behind the gift.
The one thing that really annoys me is people that give a Xmas present without any thought.
You have ample time to think about what to give family and friends this Xmas, think of what they need and want then work to fill those aspects.
One final suggestion, why not drop off a bag of Dog or Cat Biscuits to your local SPCA to assist with their looking after all those unwanted pets at this time of the year.
There is great pleasure in giving.
Happy Xmas shopping.
Wednesday 27 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. Meet the Artists: TODAY, at 6:30pm. Free for all age. Meet the artists and get to know the making behind this new and seasoned works from local artists Sam Proffit and Glynn Davies with pieces created from oils, acrylics, embroidery, and other mixed-mediums. Book at: https://www.fidelio.co.nz/up-coming
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: Please note: November Christmas Lunch has sold out.
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: 2nd Thursday of the month 6:30-8:30pm, R18+, $20. Categories include general knowledge, food & drink culture, music & arts, and more! Fidelio Café and Wine Bar, Blenheim Railway Station.
Maternal Mental Wellbeing Marlborough is offering instant support from our counsellors to new mums and mum-to-be. The sessions are completely free, with no booking or referral needed. The sessions will be held every Tuesday from 9:30 to 11:30 AM, at Plunket room in town, 5th November to 3rd December.
Blenheim Family History Group in PICTON: TODAY, 1.30-3.30pm. Need help with your family history research, come to the Picton Library and 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.
Havelock Lions Club’s monthly market: Will be held TODAY Saturday 30th November, outside the Havelock Town Hall 9am -1pm. There will be a good variety of stalls, including preserves, clothing, woollen items, crafts, soaps, books, art works, vegetables and fruit plus much more. Plenty of bargains to browse through. Enjoy a sausage sizzle and invest in a raffle ticket for a leg of Hogget. There are still sites available. $5. Ring Ian 574 2558
Winter Indoor Craft Market: TODAY, 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. 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.
South African Dessert Night: TODAY, 4-9pm. All ages. Indulge in an evening of gourmet desserts at Fidelio Cafe & Wine Bar, starting at 4pm. Delight in a variety of traditional desserts paired with sparkling and dessert wines from South Africa, or choose from our selection of coffees, Rooibos drinks, and teas.
MESSY CHRISTMAS:
TODAY 4–6pm. create with activities, fun & games; celebrate with Bible stories, songs & food. At St Christopher’s Church 92 Weld St, Admission free but Koha appreciated. Ph 5780139 or email office@ stchristophers.co.nz
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: TODAY Steam: train is being hauled by Locomotive “Donald” 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.
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.
Maternal Mental Wellbeing Marlborough: Is offering instant support from our counsellors to new mums and mum-to-be. The sessions are completely free, with no booking or referral needed. The sessions will be held every Tuesday from 9:30 to 11:30 AM, at Plunket room in town, 5th November to 3rd December.
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. No meeting Dec 24 and Jan 25. 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.
MenzShed GARAGE and BIKE Sale: 9am to noon on Saturday 14 December at the Bright Centre, 4 Dillons Pt Rd, cash only. Adult and children’s bikes from $10, woodworking and garden tools, nails, screws, fittings, wood, pottery and bric a brac. Family Picnic and Sports Day: Saturday January 04 2025. 10am onwards, Admission $5pp, kids 12 and under free. Please bring cash for entry fee. More information on Facebook www.facebook. com/HopaiSports or phone 035798232. Death Cafe:
Lifting the taboo: share what is on your mind and heart about death and dying in a safe and open environment. Speights Ale House (separate alcove) Dec 4th 7-8.15pm. More info on deathcafe.com
Vines Village Monthly Market: Next market December 18th from 4:30pm.
Methodist Wesley Centre
Office Administrator
Proficient in Xero, Word, and PowerPoint. This is a permanent, sole-charge office position, handling booking enquiries, producing a weekly bulletin etc, with emphasis on finance. 12 hours per week Tues to Fri. Office opening hours currently 9am to noon, but negotiable. Be the face, voice and network hub of the Wesley Centre. Complete job description available on request by email or collect from 3 Henry Street, Blenheim. Applications close Wed, December 4th. Ph 03 578 5796, email wesley.blenheim@xtra.co.nz
MENZ SHED
MenzShed Blenheim are holding a GARAGE and BIKE sale from 9am to noon on Saturday 14 December at the Bright Centre, 4 Dillons Pt Rd, cash only.
Adult and children’s bikes from $10, woodworking and garden tools, nails, screws, fittings, wood, pottery and bric a brac.
tūranga mahi | About the role
We’re gearing up for our busiest period with summer around the corner and require superstar visitor hosts to join our team. As the museum hosts, you will play a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation and exceptional service delivery to our visitors, while displaying strong customer service skills, excellent organizational abilities, and the ability to thrive in a solo environment.
We are seeking to fill two positions who will job share the weekend shifts, preferably working 4 hours per day. There may be opportunity for more work on cruise ship days and leave cover for other staff. If you are looking for an opportunity to get involved in a local heritage tourism site and are enthusiastic about working with a friendly team in a visitor-focused environment, this role is for you!
For any additional information please reach out to Liz Ward (Heritage Manager) on Liz.ward@marlborough.govt.nz
Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply
Full details of the vacancy and how to apply can be located at links.marlborough.govt.nz/current-vacancies
Applications close 5.00 pm on 3 December 2024
Blenheim Renwick
LEARN Te Reo Māori in Blenheim! Join ‘He Waka Kuaka’ workplace PLD programme. 10-week blocks, flexible hours, 1hr/week. $280+GSTpp. Visit www.tereomaori.org
CHRISTMAS PRESENTS – Want something different, unique or wacky – JUST BROWSING, 26 Battys Rd. Crystal, porcelain, gold/silver jewellery, 70’s 80’s records, N.Z. art, gardening tools, thousands of NZ Books (hunting, regional NZ & Maori etc), old toys, collectables and the unusual. Gift Vouchers available. Open 10am to 4.30pm Mon to Sat. Always Buying. (03) 5775402
St. Marks Society Annual General Meeting
Thursday 28th November 2024. 6pm, at St Marks AOD Treatment Centre, Koru Room, 61 Main Street, Blenheim.
Date: Thursday 12 December 2024
Time: 5.30pm
Venue: Maataa Waka Ki Te Tau Ihu, 56 Main Street, Blenheim Agenda:
• Confirmation of the 11 November 2023 Annual General Meeting minutes
• Chairperson’s Report
• Annual Report
• Appointment of Auditor
• General Business
• Election of Trustees – two trustee vacancies
Please contact Leona Head leona@maataawaka. co.nz for a nomination form.
Please RSVP admin@maataawaka.co.nz by 4pm Friday 6 December 2023 for catering purposes if you would like to attend.
CLEARANCE AUCTION. 372 Rosedale Drive, off Neudorf Rd, Upper Moutere 11am Saturday 30th November viewing Friday 11am - 3pm ( and from 9am Sat) John Deere 5205 4x4 tractor with bucket 1760hrs, 2022 Foton Aumark Tip Truck 14,000km, bob cat 324 2024 hrs, log splitter, water blaster, 20ft container, ride on mower, 1990 Nissan truck 4wd, ramps, spreader, concrete mixer, lg selection of builders tools, dog kennels, freezer etc etc. Photos/ Info: www.jwauctions.co.nz Payment: Cash - EFTPOS - VISA - Mastercard. John Walker Auctioneer 027 443 2525
Wanted
P ENN y LANE Records always buying records. Excellent prices paid. 430 Colombo Street, Sydenham, Chch. 366 3278 Open 7 days
ALL records wanted by local bands, will pay Chants
An established support group meeting in Blenheim for men and their families living with a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. Spouses, partners and family members welcome.
Next MeetiNg:
Date: Tuesday 3rd December, 7.15pm
Venue: Cancer Society Blenheim House 76A Maxwell Road, Blenheim
For more information please contact: Support Group Coordinator Murray Eyles M: 027 608 5667
e: marlborough@prostate.org.nz W: www.prostate.org.nz/support-meetings
Urgent Care Centre: Wairau Hospital Grounds. Entry off Hospital Rd, Blenheim, 8am-8pm daily. Phone (03) 520 6377. Ambulance: Urgent 111. Non urgent 578 0797.
After Hours Chemists: Springlands Pharmacy: Monday - Friday 8.30am6pm. Saturday 9m - 5pm. Sunday 10am - 4pm.
Community Care Pharmacy: Within the Blenheim Warehouse, open 7 days 9am8pm. Only closed Christmas Day. Lifeline Marlborough: 0800 543354, 24hr helpline.
Women’s Refuge and Sexual Violence Support Centre Marlborough: Crisis line number phone 0800 refuge or 03 5779939.
Victim Support: 0800 VICTIM (0800 842 846)
Alcoholics Anonymous: 0800 AA WORKS - 0800 229 6757.
Citizens Advice Bureau: Free, friendly, confidential advice. Mon - Fri 9.30am4pm. Phone 578 4272.
Wairau Hospital: Hospital Visiting Hours: Daily 2.30pm - 8pm, children under 12 may visit parents only.
Maternity Ward: 10am-noon, 4pm-7pm. Children's Ward: Daily 10am-8pm. Visiting at all times is subject to the discretion of the nurse in charge of the ward. Emergency Dentist: Contact Wairau Hospital 5209999.
Picton:
Ambulance: Urgent 111. Non-urgent 579 4870.
Chemist: Picton Healthcare Pharmacy. Ph 573 6420 Mon -Fri 8.30-5.30pm, Sat 9-2pm. Medical Centre Pharmacy, Ph 928 4265, Mon-Fri 8am-5.30pm
The deadline is Monday 5.00pm. Please contact the Sun for further details. 72 High Street, Blenheim, email office@blenheimsun.co.nz or phone 577 7868. Remember your lost loved one on their anniversary.
Rain has never been recorded in parts of Chile’s Atacama Desert, the driest place on Earth.
BADE: Edwin Lawrence (Ted)
Ted passed away peacefully at Ashwood Park, Blenheim on Thursday 21 November, aged 90 years. A loving and devoted husband to Olive for 68 years. A loved and respected father and father-in-law to Raymond and Bev, Owen and Jenny, Edward and Monica, and Michael and Ann-Maree. A loved grandad, great grandad, uncle and friend to many. Messages to c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals. co.nz Our sincere thanks to the staff at Ashwood Park for their care of Ted. In accordance with Ted’s wishes a private cremation service has been held.
Cloudy Bay Funerals
EMMS: Paul Norman
Peacefully at Ashwood Park Rest Home, Thursday, 21 November 2024, aged 79 years. Dearly loved husband of Sheryn, loved father and father-in-law of Brendon and the late Donna; Rochelle and Mike Sims. A treasured Pop of Ashleigh and Luke, and Hannah and Ben. Loved brother and brother-in-law, uncle and friend to many. A grateful thanks to Ashwood Park Rest Home nursing staff for their wonderful care of Paul. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Hospice Marlborough and the Blind Foundation on their website or can be made at the service. A memorial service for Paul has been held. This service was livestreamed and can be viewed on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services website.
Cloudy Bay Funerals
GRANGER, Patricia:
Passed away peacefully on Monday November 18, 2024, at Bethsaida Retirement Village. Aged 82 years. Dearly loved daughter of the late Carl and Alvena Granger, muchloved sister of Glennis Joy and Jessie May. Messages may be sent to the Granger Family, c/- P O Box 110, Blenheim 7240. A graveside farewell for Patricia was held at Fairhall Cemetery on Thursday November 21.
T: 03 578 4719
E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz W: www.sowmans.co.nz
GRAY, Alfred Donald (Don):
Passed away on Friday November 15, 2024 at Redwood Lifestyle Care & Village. Aged 92 years. Husband of the late Margery, father and father-in-law of Joanne and Wayne, Rodney, and Stephanie, loved Pop of Scott, Tammy, Alex, Jake and Vincent and great-grandfather to five little ones. Messages may be sent to the Gray Family, c/- P O Box 110, Blenheim. In accordance with Don’s wishes, a private cremation has taken place.
T: 03 578 4719
E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz W: www.sowmans.co.nz
MARSTON, Shirley Winifred: Passed away peacefully at Aberleigh Village, Blenheim on Tuesday November 19, 2024. Aged 91 years. Much-loved sister of Pamela Taylor and the late John Marston. Also a loving and loved aunt and great-aunt of the family. An interment of Shirley’s ashes will be held at a later date. Forever with the Lord.
T: 03 578 4719
E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz W: www.sowmans.co.nz
FLEET: Stuart Norton
On 22 November 2024, at Hospice Marlborough, after a short battle with cancer, aged 58 years. Much loved son of Sylvia, and the late Ken Fleet and a loved and respected brother and brother-in-law of Julie and Gavin; and Lynna and Rob. Loved uncle of William and Jan, Adrian and Petra, and Samantha and Ken, great-uncle of William, Derek and Evie; Stella and Alex; Norton and Leo, and a friend to many. Messages to c/PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz Special thanks to the Doctors, nurses and staff at Hospice Marlborough and also Dr Eric Wegener and Carrie for their amazing care and compassion. In accordance with Stu’s wishes, a private family service will be held.
BAYNON, Alastair Eric (Ali): November 1, 2024
KENNEDY, David: November 2, 2024
ANDERSON, Gweneth May (née Weir): November 11, 2024
HOPKINS, Russell Douglas: November 12, 2024
PLUMMER, Thelma Susan (Peggy): November 13, 2024
WILKINSON, Mavis June (née Sutherland): November 14, 2024
vAN ANTWERPEN, Gerard: Nieuwdorp 24 August 1965 - Blenheim 19 November 2024. “In this race, only one place counted, winning. That hasn’t worked out”. It is with great sadness we inform you that beloved partner to Jolande, father of Dagmar and Niels, son, brother, brother-inlaw, uncle and friend, has been taken from our lives. Correspondence to 137 Vickerman Street, Grovetown, Blenheim 7202. The funeral will take place privately. A “Celebration of Life” will follow at a later date.
T: 03 578 4719
E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz W: www.sowmans.co.nz
NEAL, David George: 10/10/41 - 09/11/24 Janice and family wish to thank everyone who expressed their love and sympathy through cards, flowers, baking, phone calls, email messages and attending the service for him. We deeply appreciate your love, kindness and prayers at this sad time. It means a lot to us. Thank you. Also grateful thanks to Cloudy Bay Funeral services, Terry Terrill and St John's Ambulance. Please accept this as a personal acknowledgement. Thank you, Janice and family.
SADD, Kevin Edward: Lorraine, Wendy, Jenny, Colin, Vicky, Mike and their extended families would like to thank everyone for their love and support following Kevin’s passing. We appreciate all the messages, cards, flowers and food received and would like to thank all those who attended Kevin’s celebration of life, particularly, those who travelled from afar to be with us. Your thoughts and kindness have been a great comfort to us all. Please accept this as a personal thank you, as many addresses are unknown.
GRAY, Alfred Donald (Don): November 15, 2024
GRANGER, Patricia: November 18, 2024
vAN ANTWERPEN, Gerard: November 19 2024
MARSTON, Shirley Winifred: November 19, 2024
Havelock Lions Club’s monthly market
Will be held on Saturday 30th November, outside the Havelock Town Hall 9am -1pm. There will be a good variety of stalls, including preserves, clothing, woollen items, crafts, soaps, books, art works, vegetables and fruit plus much more. Plenty of bargains to browse through. Enjoy a sausage sizzle and invest in a raffle ticket for a leg of Hogget. There are still sites available. $5. Ring Ian 574 2558 Community Noticeboard is for non-profit organisations! For $10.00 + GST you can publish up to 25 words. EXCLUDES: AGMS, sporting notices or special meetings. All notices must be pre-paid. Call into our office at 72 High St.
By George Elder
Most diet plans promote exercise and reduced calories to lose weight and you will, but only for a limited time. Reducing calories drops your nutrients. Your metabolism slows down to match the lower incoming calories and nutrient level.
Your body must then choose where to distribute the reduced available nutrients. Your brain gets priority. Your hair, skin and nails can probably function without the best nutrition for a while. These areas gradually lose their sparkle and energy. However, alarm bells will be
going off in your brain with a strong message to upload more nutrients. This can make you hungry, tired and grumpy. Weight loss slows down and to continue weight loss, requires more calorie reduction.
Few people can withstand this, eventually succumbing to their body’s demands for more food.
During WWII, the US Government commissioned a starvation study, The Minnesota Starvation Experiment. 36 male volunteers spent 6 months on 1600 calories per day. They ate mainly potatoes, turnips, bread and macaroni, a high carbohydrate diet. They became depressed, lost concentration, became preoccupied with food and very distressed. Some
ended up hospitalised, yet most weight loss programs use this type of approach to diet. There is a better way. In the 1970’s, two researchers, Blackburn and Bistrian at Harvard Medical School developed a ‘protein-sparing modified fast’ to treat obesity: 650 to 800 calories a day of nothing but fish and meat. Effectively zero carbohydrates, making it a low-calorie keto diet. One publication highlighted the average weight loss of the 700 people was nearly fifty pounds in four months. The patients felt little hunger. “They loved it,” Bistrian said. “It was an extraordinarily safe way to lose weight.” Sadly they stopped, because they mistakenly thought that low carbohydrate diets
were unhealthy.
The difference between these diets is the carbohydrates. High carbohydrate diets with low calories, force your body into starvation mode because the resulting high insulin level prevents the body from accessing fat reserves. But if you become fat adapted, eating higher fats and very low carbohydrates, you can use stored body fat to replace missing calories.
A successful way to get fat adapted is to severely reduce carbohydrates in your diet, replacing most carbohydrates with good fats. Carbohydrates are not essential because your liver will make glucose from fat if needed.
I have eaten this way for 5 years.
No weighing food or counting calories. I seldom feel hungry. Do I need carbs for exercise and energy? No way. I am 73, on zero meds. I run, swim, use the gym, or kayak with no shortage of energy. Fat adapted people claim increased energy. My weight came down 11kgs and my blood pressure is back to normal. Reducing calories does reduce weight, but unless done right, is unlikely to be sustainable. 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.
Eleven members of the Blenheim Seido Karate Dojo headed to Nelson over Labour Weekend to compete in the Shibu International Tournament, marking the 50th year the tournament has run.
There were over 250 competitors from Poland, England, USA, Australia and New Zealand.
The Blenheim team did very well against some very tough competition, competing in Kata, Weapons Kata, Point Sparring, and Contact Sparring. They returned home with 15 medals and 3 world champion titles.
Results
Senpai Jackie Aitken – 3rd in the Veteran Women’s Featherweight Point Sparring; Alisa Locke - 3rd in Veteran 2nd Dan Women’s Weapons Kata;
Cheyenne Locke - 1st in Women’s 2nd Dan Weapons Kata; Senpai Eric Witteman - 3rd in Veteran Men’s Kata and 3rd in Veteran Weapons Kata; Senpai Cory Thompson - Competed with excellence missing out on a medal; Riley Barrett - 1st in Brown Belt Light Weight Point Sparring and 3rd in Brown Belt Men’s Kata; Andrew Bassett - 1st in Brown Belt Veteran Point Sparring and 2nd in Brown Belt Veteran Kata; Laura Bradbury - 4th in Veteran Brown Belt Sparring; Dean Boyce; 3rd in Veteran Green Belt Kata and 3rd in Veteran Green Belt Heavy Weight Point Sparring; Micheal Reece - 3rd in Men’s Green Belt Kata and 3rd in Men’s Green Belt point Sparring; Adelaide Vawter - 3rd in Green Belt Women’s Kata ; Cameron Vawter2nd in Green belt Point Sparring.
PART OF THE FABRIC OF THE MARLBOROUGH COMMUNITY
Harcourts Marlborough celebrated 35 years last week. From left: Craig Searle - Sales Manager/Business Owner,John Davis - Founder, Jack Feavers - Business Manager/ Business Owner, Jo-Anne Clifford - Harcourts Chief Operations Officer, Chris Greenhill, Janice Dreaver - Business Owner, Harcourts Kaikoura, Mark Davis - Principal/Business Owner, William Harris - Rural-Commercial Manager/ Business Owner, Jo Able - Harcourts South Island Regional Manager.
