Blenheim has had its second wettest June in 96 years weather experts have revealed.
Total rainfall of 191.8mm fell, a whooping 295 per cent of the long-term average (LTA) for June of 65mm.
Data from the Blenheim Meteorological station located at the Grovetown Park campus of the Marlborough Research Centre show rainfall for the 12 months from July 2024 to June 2025 was 724.8mm, which was 114 per cent of the LTA of 636.9mm.
There were two main rain events with 40mm on 5 June and 129.8mm between 26 and 29 June. NIWA classifies a heavy rain event as being 100mm, or more, in 24 hours.
June was also notable for above average temperatures at the start and end of the month.
Data showed there were nine days that recorded less than an hour of sunshine and seven ground frosts.
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Zonta Club of Marlborough members past and present held a 30th birthday celebration last Wednesday. From left, Christine Law, Pam Wood, Susan O’Kane Powell, Janette Holdaway, Denise Preston, Katrina Smith, Lorri Taylor, Club President Lynley McGowan, Tessa Sutherland, inaugural club President Viv Anderson, Marie Cridge, Bridget Orman, Maggie Lloyd and Liz Evans. Zonta District 16 Governor Jennifer McKinlay Birkin cuts the cake. Photo: Toni Gillan.
By Paula Hulburt
It was a celebration of survival, of community and new beginnings, a chance to gather and enjoy a special day together.
Former refugees joined other Marlburians at Marlborough Youth Trust’s My Space on Friday to mark World Refugee Day.
From sharing personal stories, to dance, music and food, the popular event saw more than 100 people of all ages fill the large venue.
The first to share her story Wendy Iguaran, a former refugee from Colombia, said many people in the room were there as they had refused to let go of their dreams.
“Many arrive with a broken heart but with a great desire to live.
“No matter how small our dreams, they are all possible, it is okay to have expectations, it is okay to want to live,” she said.
Marlborough Mayor Nadine Taylor paid tribute to the former refugees who had overcome adversity to call the region home.
“In coming here, you have brought your stories of courage and survival. You have bought your dreams and desire to be part of our community and we welcome that,” she said.
“We are here to honour the journeys that brought you here and to thank you for enriching our community with your culture and your strength.
“Marlborough is a better place because you are here.”
Members of the region’s Colombian, Venezuelan and Rohingya communities then showed their talents in both dance and music, with the younger members taking to the floor first.
All performances were met with cheers of support and smiles.
Marlborough Multicultural Centre Community Partner Margaret Western said since becoming a refugee resettlement area in 2020, Marlborough had welcomed more than 261 former refugees.
“It has been one of the greatest privileges of my work to walk alongside some of these brave people, supporting them as they navigate their own pathway to independence here in their new home.
“To witness that journey, from uncertainty to confidence, from isolation to connection, is incredibly humbling.
“To the wider Marlborough community, I encourage you to continue extending your welcome, your friendship, and your open hearts.”
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Police have released the name of the man who died following a crash in Redwoodtown on 18 June. He was 50-year-old Reginald Anthony Mischeski, of Mayfield. Police said their thoughts were with those close to him at this difficult time. Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash remain ongoing.
London Quay works
A project to revitalise Picton’s muchloved waterfront strip was set to get underway on Monday. The project, which is scheduled for completion by mid-October, has been awarded to Fulton Hogan. The design has been led by Rough Milne Mitchell Landscape Architects (RMMLA). Mayor Nadine Taylor said the upgrade of London Quay was an “investment of confidence” in Picton as Marlborough’s premier tourist town. “It is a high use area with a view loved by everyone who lives in or visits Picton. This development will ensure it is accessible and an attractive hospitality and visitor space for all users,” she said.
Happy birthday to CBD Café who have celebrated their 9th birthday earlier this month. To mark the special occasion owners Mike and Tania Godsall are running a birthday giveaway this week. Visit in store and enter the draw to win a $100 Gramado’s voucher or a $100 grocery voucher.
Nominations opened on Friday for candidates who wish to stand for Marlborough District Council in this year’s local government elections. Completed nomination documents must be received by the Electoral Officer no later than 12 noon on Friday 1 August 2025. Each nomination must be accompanied by a deposit of $200 (incl. GST). Further information and a Candidate Handbook explaining the process can be found on Council’s website at www.marlborough.govt.nz/ your-council/elections/2025-councilelection/information-for-candidates
off concert
Renowned Marlborough saxophonist Tristan Gregory-Hunt is putting on a oneoff concert on 30 August. Tristan is set to showcase his playing along with Aimee Moore on drums, Alistair McLeod on double bass and Fred Wisman on Piano. Presented by Fidelio Cafe & Wine Bar as part of the Winter Concert Series tickets are available from www.trybooking.com
Funds boost
Grants of up to $10,000 are available to support local projects.
Local bus operator Go Bus has opened applications for the first round of its Moving Communities Fund plus in-kind support to not-for-profits, sporting clubs, and organisations making a difference in the community. Applications are now open at www.wearekinetic.com/ community and close July 31.
By Paula Hulburt
A self-confessed car fanatic who helped shape road safety across the region has retired after 38 years.
Patrick Pascoe from Waikawa has retired as chairman from the Automobile Association District Council.
While the move spells the end of his official involvement, Patrick has no plans to slow down in other areas, especially when it comes to cars.
“I joined AA when I was 16 years old when I got my license, it made sense to me,” he said.
The AA has 18 District Councils throughout the country that represent the interests of AA Members in their local areas.
Patrick has volunteered on both the Nelson and Marlborough councils.
Each council meets monthly to discuss transport-related issues and works closely with local government agencies and other transport and road safety groups in their region.
“We looked at speed limits and things like that, we were always making submissions,” Patrick said.
A volunteer fireman, Patrick once lived in the Blenheim police station to be on hand for calls near the site of the old fire station, where the current one sits.
“I did 27 years altogether and remember being at the Farmers fire [1973] just before I left,” he said.
Married to Susan for 50 years, Patrick, now working as a part time trucker, has two daughters, one in Nelson and one in Switzerland.
The granddad of four says he and his brother, Jeffrey, were the first in his family to show a passion for cars.
“I began racing when I was 17 years old as my brother was quite into cars. He won the New Zealand Formula Ford Championship in 1980.”
With nine cars at home and a particular fondness for the classics, Patrick has put his expertise to good use across the community.
Responsible for the Annual Hospice Vehicle Display he also established the Nelson Marlborough Classic Car Club from scratch and sits on the Aviation Heritage Centre Board.
Nelson District Council of the
“He was a key organiser and facilitator of many different events over this period.
“Pat is a strong advocate of a third arterial route into Nelson (Southern Link), which would have been very useful over the past weather events we have recently experienced,” he said.
Patrick is humble about all he’s
done but did admit he feels like he’s “achieved quite a bit.”
“I am retired but put it this way, I’m not pushed for things to do,” he laughed.
For a one-time commercial pilot who still flies privately and owns a share in a plane, there is not much he still wants to achieve.
“The only thing I really wanted to do, and it’s probably too late now, is drive Route 66 in America. The left-hand side of the road thing may have been a bit tricky.”
Marlborough Primary Health is partnering with Practice Plus to provide virtual afterhours health care in Marlborough 24/7.
To access primary health care after 5pm on weekdays, all day at weekends and public holidays, simply phone your General Practice and you will be connected with a health professional who will talk to you about your symptoms and help book an appropriate appointment.
Virtual appointments are safe and effective for many health concerns and have been successfully treating thousands of people every year all over Aotearoa New Zealand. Prescriptions can be emailed directly to your nearest pharmacy for collection.
From 01 April 2025 Marlborough General Practices will have virtual appointment options through Practice Plus for after-hours care.
Tūhonotia te Hapori: Connecting Communities to Wellbeing
By Paula Hulburt
A new overbridge in Picton has been given the go-ahead as part of key works to be done ahead of the arrival of two new ferries.
Plans for an overbridge on Dublin Street stalled in the wake of the failed iRex plans.
Rail Minister Winston Peters was in Picton last week to announce an agreement over the scope of physical work and equipment needed. Ferry Holdings had reached agreement with CentrePort, Port Marlborough and KiwiRail, he said.
“We are pleased to confirm for the locals in Picton that the Dublin Street overbridge will be built – ridding the town of the blocked streets it will experience when freight-laden trains arrive at the port.
“The road and rail will be grade separated before 2029 as a safety and an efficiency improvement for road and rail.”
Marlborough Mayor Nadine Taylor was in Picton with the Minister. She welcomed the news the bridge build would be going ahead.
“…that the Dublin Street overbridge will be built and paid for
by central government as part of the wider project is great news for Picton and the Marlborough region,” she said.
“I’d like to thank Minister Peters for coming here and showing his commitment to the ferries project and securing a fair deal for Marlborough residents and ratepayers.”
Construction will include a new wharf to accommodate the larger, rail-enabled ferries, new linkspan to connect the ferries to the terminal and landside infrastructure.
Existing terminal interface,
reusing passenger and commercial vehicle facilities would be upgraded too.
“The agreements entered into effectively mean the ports and KiwiRail are in, boots and all, with Cabinet’s preferred low-cost option,” the Minister said.
“The focus of the agreements is primarily about the marine infrastructure.
“The teams at Ferry Holdings, CentrePort, Port Marlborough and KiwiRail are doing an outstanding job in the service of the taxpayer, and we thank them for
it,” Mr Peters says.
Port Marlborough Chief Executive Rhys Welbourn said the agreement is a critical step forward.
“For more than a decade, we’ve worked to support a long-term solution for inter-island connectivity.
“The agreements confirmed today now give clarity to all parties and set the direction for progressing the infrastructure that will strengthen the vital transport link between the North and South Islands.”
Marlborough District Councillors yesterday approved the establishment of a new water services organisation (WSO) to deliver drinking, wastewater and stormwater services to the people of Marlborough. Mayor Nadine Taylor said it was a very important decision for the region. “By removing three waters debt from Council’s books, we will have an improved ability to deliver other key Council activities to support the Marlborough community, including responding to and funding unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters.”
Ferry Bridge in Spring Creek remains closed after the recent flooding and may be for some time as Marlborough Roads teams establish if it sustained any damage. The bridge, built in 1909, has been closed to the public since the heavy rain.
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Margaret’s Fitbit tells a remarkable story – one that’s giving hope to thousands of Kiwis struggling with agerelated sleep problems.
At 68, the retired High School teacher had accepted that good sleep was a thing of the past. Like nearly half of New Zealanders over 50, she faced nightly battles that left her exhausted and frustrated.
“I’d dread the moment the lights went out,” Margaret explains. “I’d lie there for hours, tossing and turning. Even when I did fall asleep, I’d wake multiple times. The mornings were the worst – I felt like I was dragging myself to the kettle.”
Margaret’s struggle reflects a growing crisis among older Kiwis. Research shows that as we age, our bodies produce less melatonin – the hormone that signals sleep. Combined with increased night time anxiety and lighter sleep cycles, it creates a perfect storm of sleeplessness.
“I tried everything,” Margaret says. “Other natural remedies would make me drowsy but I’d still wake at 2am. Some left me feeling hungover the next morning! Nothing actually helped me stay asleep or wake refreshed.”
Margaret’s breakthrough came when she discovered Koru Sleep at
her local pharmacy. Unlike typical sleep aids that simply combine magnesium with a herb or two, this formula took a comprehensive approach she hadn’t seen before.
“What I noticed immediately was that it felt natural,” she recalls.
“Within days, my Fitbit was showing longer stretches of deep sleep – the kind where your body actually repairs itself.”
The retired teacher now follows a simple routine: two capsules, 30
minutes before bed.
“I wake up clear-headed now instead of groggy. It’s like someone switched the lights back on in my life,” she laughs. “I’m reading again, spending quality time with friends, keeping up with things around the garden. I have energy I haven’t felt in years.”
For Margaret, better sleep has meant better days. She credits her improved rest with helping her manage everything from daily
activities to maintaining her active lifestyle in the community.
“When you’re exhausted, everything feels harder – your patience, your focus, even your relationships suffer,” she reflects.
“Now I feel like myself again. I’m protective of my bedtime because I know how good tomorrow will feel.”
You can try Koru Sleep for yourself today. It’s available at local community pharmacies.
The wet weather has been playing havoc with my beautiful coat so I have been spending more time patrolling indoors. Frizz is not my friend.
The nurses kindly organised a mouse shaped treat ball for me to chase while I was stuck inside. I did worry I might look like an overgrown kitten chasing it around but it was such fun. I believe I looked rather impressive displaying my speed, grace and pouncing abilities.
I have big news. Huge! Hospice have just launched a raffle where the winner gets a 2025 Suzuki Swift GLS Auto Hybrid!! A massive thank you to our amazing sponsors at Motorworld Blenheim and Ray White Blenheim/Picton for their kindness.
Tickets are limited to 1000 and they’re only $50 each. Visit our website and social media platforms to get your paws on some tickets – you don’t want to miss this one! I’m so happy my purrs are off the charts.
We have been busy, busy here, I shared afternoon tea with some of our lovely volunteers to celebrate National Volunteers Week. It was delicious! We are so grateful for all our volunteers, here at Hospice we have over 180 of them! Between 9 different service areas. Talk about a skilled group of people! I, of course, am very skilled myself in a range of areas, including, but not limited to, finding treats and the perfect spot for a nap.
Our annual Remembrance Gathering was marked alongside Matariki. We had over 50 people join us in reflecting on the year that has passed, honouring those we’ve lost and cherishing those around us. The candle lighting ceremony
at Hospice was beautiful.
The Marlborough Golf Club also held an amazing event – The Food and Fashion Show, with all money raised being donated to Hospice Marlborough.
I take my hat off, metaphorically of course, a real hat would ruin my hair, to the Women club captains Janet Leith and Lynn Dowler.
Local businesses, Thomas’s, and McRaes came on board to showcase their fashion with an entertaining catwalk and Eat Thai providing beautiful food for the evening. I too do an entertaining catwalk; you can see it most days as I wander around the Hospice. Grace personified.
There were silent auctions and raffles up for grabs and in total $8852 was raised.
We are so grateful to have a community like we do in Marlborough, who come together and raise significant awareness and funds for us. Thank you to everyone involved.
Love Lexie.
By Paula Hulburt
A once popular jetty has been earmarked for demolition after it was declared a safety risk.
The jetty off Springlands Green has been closed off since 2022, when a section of pavement slumped.
Now council investigations have revealed the timber platform, used regularly by people keen to feed the ducks, was not built to code and is illegal.
But concerned residents hope to help save the small jetty over Murphy’s Creek which they believe can be upgraded using recycled plastic posts.
Gwyneth Lowe, who has lived in Springlands for 51 years, says the jetty was ideal as it provided easy access for all.
“The idea was that it was easily accessible for wheelchairs, pushchairs and walkers,” she said.
“I remember going there to feed the ducks with my grandchildren. There are other options.”
Springlands Green was originally the front garden of Willowmeade, an early homestead which once stood where Springlands Lifestyle Village is now.
Save the Springlands Green Committee was set up by Doug and Anne Saul in 1972. They, alongside other concerned residents, wanted to ensure the area wasn’t swallowed
up by private development.
Gwyneth was also a committee member. She said the successful campaign saw the park area saved after it was bought for $100,000.
“Marlborough District Council raised 60 per cent of the money needed. The remaining $42,000 was raised by Save the Springlands Green Appeal in just nine weeks.”
The reserve was vested with Council as a Reserve under the Reserves Act of 1977 in 2000.
Gwyneth said she understood why the area had been cordoned off but not why it took three years for investigations to take place.
“That’s what annoys me the most,” she explained.
In an email shown to the Blenheim Sun, Parks and Open Spaces Officer Robert Hutchinson explained engineers had looked at reinstatement options.
No consent had been found for the jetty he wrote, which appeared to be illegal as it added to the slumping issue.
Wooden piles could not be used and significant rock works were needed to stabilise the banks.
“Unfortunately, we lose direct access of the stream but we stop erosion of the Green and make everything safe for users.”
Marlborough District Council have been approached to comment.
I
Joe Ferraby, Blenheim
For most of my life, I’ve worked as a farmer and started going out on the farm when I was 5 years old. I’ve also been the director on a number of companies for the past 50 years.
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Email them to news@blenheimsun. co.nz or drop in to our office at 72 High St.
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Letters/Opinions not necessarily those of the Sun management.
Dear Ed
How interesting is it, that Gerald Hope becomes a saviour to rate increases, when it was he who wanted to spend a couple of extra million dollars for deluxe looking toilets (nice to have) over mere functional ones (must have). Some of us don’t forget, Gerald, maybe time to step down?
The sooner we get rate capping the better. I’m sure most ratepayers would be happy to accept up to a 2% increase on the CPI for essentials.
Chris Davies Picton
Dear Ed
This is a war not wanted nor started by Israel. It only started after the most barbaric invasion and attack on innocent civilians on October 7th ‘23. It could have quickly ended with the surrender of the hostages.
There is something deeply and unspeakably immoral about holding people, including innocent babies and dead bodies as bargaining chips. The call should now be for the immediate return of all hostages.
Israel has been defending itself from an existential threat to its very existence from a country, Iran, ruled by a death cult and on the verge of getting an atomic bomb, and it’s proxies in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, etc.
Israel has done more than any country in the history of warfare to protect the civilians. Hamas deliberately puts its own people in harms way as human shields. If Israel had wanted to commit genocide,
Councillor Gerald Hope responds
My commitment to Marlborough has been and will continue to be ‘What is the best financial investment for the region in the long term’ that includes public facilities that are durable, modern, clean, and pass the visitor test.
Rates capping or pegging is not a solution as shown in Australia. “If introduced in New Zealand, a rate cap has great potential to have seriously adverse impacts on the long-term financial sustainability of local government and to undermine the
the war would have been over in a week. Instead Israeli soldiers are still dying because Israelis are putting their own children at risk to lessen the harms to civilians. The ‘genocide’ lie is just another anti-semitic blood libel on Israel.
Israel targets Hamas. Hamas fights in civilian clothes from tunnels, schools, mosques hospitals and private homes, all in a very densely populated area. It steals humanitarian aid and sells it back to its own people at a profit. If Gazans are starving look to Hamas, not Israel, which does all it can to get aid to where it is needed.
“The Palestinians have been offered a state multiple times, 1947, 2000 and 2008 and each time they have rejected it in favour of war and terror. The issue isn’t land; it’s the refusal to accept Israel’s existence.” - Thomas Sowell.
Peter Auret Blenheim
principle of local government democracy and autonomy”.
I recommend further research by Chris on Rates Capping before he hitches on to that bandwagon.
I also encourage him to stand for council where he can be an effective part of future long-term decision making.
Councillor Gerald Hope Wairau Awatere Ward
More letters on page 18
Marlborough District Councillors have adopted the Council’s annual plan budget for 2025/26, with an average rates increase of 8.61%.
Mayor Nadine Taylor thanked Council staff for their work to bring rates down from the forecast of 10.62%.
“Council’s core spending remains strongly focussed on providing infrastructure, including roading, flood protection, waste management, water supply and community facilities.
“The increase is made up of a number
of elements outside Council’s control - depreciation at 3.23% and local government inflationary adjustments at 3.3%, which add up to 6.53%. We are also still paying for the Covid Rates Relief fund, the cost of which is spread over three years, with an impact of 1.5% per year.”
“Roading and footpaths are the biggest item of Council capital expenditure with $64M allocated this year for improvements and renewals. Included in this figure is $29M to repair and rebuild the storm damaged Sounds roading
A project to revitalise Picton’s muchloved waterfront strip, London Quay, began on Monday.
The project, scheduled for completion by mid-October, has been awarded to Fulton Hogan with design led by Rough Milne Mitchell Landscape Architects (RMMLA).
Mayor Nadine Taylor said the upgrade of London Quay was an “investment of confidence” in Picton as Marlborough’s premier tourist town.
“This waterfront space is such an important part of Picton’s identity with its linkages to the foreshore and CBD. It is a high use area with a view loved by everyone who lives in or visits Picton. This development will ensure it is accessible and an attractive hospitality and visitor space for all users,” she said. Council’s Project and Contract Manager, Maighan Watson, said the project would deliver a “landscape refresh” of London Quay, alongside essential infrastructure upgrades including streetlight upgrades, water main renewals, and road resurfacing.
She said Council was following a “dig once” approach combining the works under a single contract, minimising disruption to the Picton CBD and local
businesses.
The site holds cultural significance for local iwi, Te Ātiawa (Waitohi Pā), and Council is working in partnership with Te Ātiawa to integrate cultural design elements throughout the upgrade.
Staged closures will extend from the High Street/London Quay roundabout to Wellington Street until mid-October. Pedestrian and emergency services access will be maintained throughout the construction period.
Council is working closely with London Quay businesses to schedule the works during the quieter winter months.
“Businesses adjacent to the site will remain open and accessible at all times,” Ms Watson said.
Funding for the project has been provided through Council’s forestry, land, and port income, with no impact on rates.
Council will continue to work closely with affected businesses and provide regular updates to ensure visibility and access are maintained throughout construction.
To stay informed about road closures and project updates, check Council’s Antenno app or visit www.marlborough. govt.nz/services/apps/antenno
network, on which work continues at pace.”
She said the annual plan included $6.5M for building flood protection works in Spring Creek and Conders Bend, Renwick, provided through the Government’s Kānoa Regional Infrastructure Fund.
“Our stop bank network is critical to the safety of the communities who live beside the Wairau River. I want to assure everyone that the budget is in place for the necessary stop bank rebuilds and repairs.”
“Council’s capital expenditure budget for this year has increased to $119M, including the Sounds roads recovery. As a result, projected debt is $154M at the end of June 2026, as opposed to $190M forecast in Council’s Long Term Plan (LTP) last year.”
A record of the councillors’ public feedback discussion can be found in the Economic, Finance and Community Committee minutes of 18 March 2025 on Council’s website.
To have a say on who represents you on Council, it’s important you are enrolled correctly.
If you’re of New Zealand Māori descent, you can choose to enrol on the Māori roll or the general roll.
The roll you choose affects who you can vote for at local elections.
In Marlborough, if you choose the Māori roll you will vote for candidates in the Māori ward.
If you choose the General roll you will vote for candidates in your general ward (Blenheim, Marlborough Sounds or Wairau-Awatere).
No matter which roll you’re on, you will choose from the same list of candidates when making your vote for mayor.
This year, Marlborough is holding a poll on whether to keep the Māori ward in our district. As long as you are
registered to vote on either roll, you are eligible to vote in this poll.
If you would like to change your roll type in time for the local elections, you need to do so by midnight, Thursday 10 July
To find out more about the options, or to change your roll, go to; https:// vote.nz/local-elections/about/localelections-2025/maori-roll-or-general-roll/
Council has approved the recommendation of its Environment and Planning Committee to adopt most of the Proposed Marlborough Environment Plan (PMEP).
At a recent meeting of full Council, the regional coastal plan provisions of the PMEP that weren’t subject to appeal were approved and those provisions referred to the Minister of Conservation for approval. It also approved the remaining PMEP provisions that were not under appeal.
The PMEP combines three previous management plans for the Marlborough region into a single comprehensive document, outlining what people can do on their land and how it might be developed. It also provides guidance on how individuals, businesses and the community can utilise public resources such as freshwater and coastal areas.
Mayor Nadine Taylor and Chief Executive John Boswell signed seal
pages for the PMEP at the Council meeting to effect the decision.
Although the regional coastal plan provisions need the Minister of Conservation’s approval to take effect, last week’s Council decision clears the way for the remaining provisions to be put into action The operative date has been scheduled for Wednesday 9 July. The date will be publicly notified in local newspapers.
From 9 July, the provisions in the existing management plans will be replaced, making the resource management framework in Marlborough more straightforward and providing greater certainty for resource users and the broader community.
For more information, go to: marlborough.govt.nz/your-council/ resource-management-policyand-plans/proposed-marlboroughenvironment-plan
Local photographer and recovering alcoholic David James is set to mark ten years sober this month. He talks to Paula Hulburt about his journey and how St Marks helped save his life.
Trying to give a eulogy at his grandfather’s funeral, David had already drunk half a bottle of vodka. His gait unsteady, words slurring as tears ran unchecked, he fled, overcome with sadness and shame.
A three-day blackout in Wellington followed, leading to seizures and the Emergency Department. There, recognising his complete dependency on alcohol, the doctor prescribed half a beer every four hours. The risk of total withdrawal was too extreme.
Friends put him on a plane to the West Coast where he detoxed at his mum’s remote farm. It was, David explains, a horrendous experience.
“Every cell in your body just screams. It was a nightmare; I hallucinated and was in so much pain.
“I found out later that it can be fatal to withdraw from alcohol like this.” He had relapsed a number of times that year and, in desperation, resorted to drinking methylated spirit.
At 38 years old, and with no job, no money and no home, David says even then he didn’t readily accept that he needed to go to ‘rehab.’
“Rehab meant I’d lost,” he explains quietly. “I thought there had to be another way; but I hated being a burden on my mum and my friends.”
Westport mental health applied for four treatment centres around the country and he was added to the waiting lists. Three months later he heard St Marks had a space for him.
The Blenheim-based adult residential treatment centre is a charitable trust, relying on donations and fundraising to continue its vital services. It has one of the highest success rates in the country but for David, it was then testament to how low he had fallen.
“I was a sad state of affairs when I arrived,” he says.
“I had been drinking for 20 years, and in the last two years of my addiction I was drinking from morning to
night. I was pretty crook, homeless and no place to go. But still I really didn’t want to admit I had a problem. That’s the nature of addiction.”
St Marks is based on a Therapeutic Community (TC) model, where residents engage in a structured, peer-led environment where honesty, self-responsibility, and mutual support are at the heart of change.
David spent five months at St Marks, and his days were marked out by a strict timetable of counselling, group therapy, physical exercise, chores and more chores; David slowly began to heal, and then to thrive. Eventually he was grateful for the opportunity to find peace in sobriety.
“It taught me to hold myself again, to show up honestly, take responsibility, and begin to heal the wounds I spent years avoiding. St Marks didn’t just help me get sober.
“I was a sad state of affairs when I arrived”
“It showed me how to live. And that was the most important thing. For many, it’s opportunity to pause, reflect and be able to forgive themselves.
“It was the most unexpected gift in my life to go to St Marks,” he smiles.
“People say: but you’re giving up alcohol, but you’re never actually giving up anything. You’re getting your life back. And in the most wonderful way.
“Having the energy and heart to pursue those things in life I love is one of the gifts of recovery. I rediscovered creativity and for me, photography was just a way to fall in love with the world again.
“Seeing the world with different
eyes and just being able to feel how light shapes the world, that’s my gift. I am still in recovery; I always will be. That said, my life is infinitely better.
“St Marks saved lives. And it’s kinda miraculous that this place exists in Marlborough. I’m proof it works and they need all the support they can get, so I highly encourage people to buy tickets to the fundraising event, or just donate.”
A Night on The Booze…a Lifetime in Recovery with Pam Corkery and Paddy
moderated by Jeremy
is showing on Tuesday 15 July at 7pm.
Tickets, $50 for adults and $10 for students are available from the box office or visit www.asbtheatre.co.nz
Summerset Blenheim is a growing village with a vibrant community. The village centre is underway, and once complete, will offer a range of fantastic indoor and outdoor facilities for you to enjoy.
A range of two-bedroom cottages are available with flexible pricing starting from $465,000*.
“Moving into Summerset Blenheim while I could, not when I had to, was the best decision. I feel secure, supported, and still independent, with a welcoming community and plenty to do. My family sees how much I’m thriving. If you’re considering a move, don’t wait!” ALLISON, RESIDENT AT SUMMERSET BLENHEIM
We know that moving to a retirement village is a big decision. So why not pop in for a visit and see for yourself why our residents love the Summerset life.
Love the life you choose.
Show home open to view
Book a private appointment today
Summerset Blenheim
183 Old Renwick Road, Springlands 03 520 6042 | summerset.co.nz/blenheim
By Paula Hulburt
Little voices raised in song, proud smiles and the sharing of memories has marked a special milestone for St Mary’s Preschool.
Wet weather failed to dampen spirits as the community joined together to celebrate the Early Childhood Centre’s 50th birthday on Friday.
Staff, board members and students past and present joined preschoolers and parents to mark the historic day.
Senior Teacher Charlotte Alford said she was delighted so many
people could be part of the commemorations.
“It is with immense joy and gratitude we celebrate 50 years of learning at our beloved preschool.
“To the supportive community, thank you for your unwavering support and to our beautiful tamariki, who are the reason we are here, for your laughter, curiosity and innocence.
Charlotte, a staff member for the last six years, said it was the sense of community that surrounded the preschool that helped make it so special. It was a sentiment shared by many other guests, including
Marlborough Deputy Mayor David Croad.
“It’s planted seeds of knowledge that will last a lifetime, he said.
“As the school looks to the future, may you continue to walk together in faith and love.”
As New Zealand’s oldest Catholic preschool, St Mary’s has paved the way forward for other faithbased centres.
The preschool’s first teacher, Jenny McElhinney, said the sharing of faith which made the preschool such a welcome part of the wider community.
“It’s always been a place of love and kindness,” she smiled.
Set behind St Marys Catholic Church, the preschool was purpose built and has been embraced by Blenheim families.
Co-Chair of the Board of Governors Rachel Tau’alupe said a lot of excitement had been building around the event.
She thanked everyone for being there and paid tribute to the preschool community.
“The beautiful community spirit is a lasting testament to the relationship been formed through so many connections.
“It’s really a privilege to be here to celebrate this milestone in the preschool’s history,” she said.
Teacher Kirstine Friend was gifted a bouquet of flowers as she too celebrated a special anniversary, 10 years with the school.
A commemorative Mandarin orange tree has been planted to mark the milestone and a time capsule planted 25 years ago unearthed before being replenished and recovered.
It would be opened again in 25 years’ time, Charlotte said.
“As we look to the next 25 years, may we continue to honour the gifts of our Catholic tradition. We will continue on in Christ’s light, to grow and learn together,” she said.
The days are darker, it’s getting colder, and the temptation to run the heat pump at full blast might be growing.
After all, they’re a low-cost and efficient way to heat your home.
Tempting though it might be, blasting your heat pump will add to the numbers on your electricity bill, but it also adds to your carbon footprint, according to EECA.
Housing expert Gareth Gretton says it’s easy to run your heat pump the smart way.
Make sure it’s clean
Just like cleaning the filter in your dishwasher or washing machine can help it run more efficiently, cleaning the filter inside your heat pump can make a real difference to how well it works.
You should give your filter a good clean as we head into the cold season, and ideally clean your heat pump filters once a month during winter. You can always clean them more frequently if they’re particularly dirty.
How do you get a warm, dry home without churning through power? There is a middle point that’ll help you with both. Set your heat pump temperature to 18 degrees or above to help fight damp and mould, but below 21 degrees to save on power. The higher the temperature, the more energy the heat pump will use, so anywhere between 18 and 21 is the sweet spot.
It might sound obvious, but heat pumps use the most energy when they’re getting a room up to a set temperature. So spending more time in the space your heat pump is in will help you make the most of the energy you’re using. Often, that’s in the living room, which is also conveniently where our couches, TVs, and magazines live. You can close the doors to any rooms you don’t use too, to make sure they’re not stealing some of the warmth.
Don’t run your heat pump constantly
A lot of people believe that keeping a heat pump running 24/7 is an efficient, cost-effective way to heat their home. But in fact, that idea is actually a myth. When you do that, you’re actually using more energy and losing more energy overall, so it’s much better to just run your heat pump when you’re at home. Doing that will also save you money on your electricity bill.
Got a timer? Use it.
If your heat pump has a timer, you can set it to turn on just before you get home or before you wake up in the morning. Doing that also means you’ll be less tempted to crank the heat pump at a high temperature when you get home to a cold house, or wake up in one.
If you don’t have a heat pump but you’re looking to buy one, check out our guide to choosing a heat pump for tips on what to look for, including energy star rating, locations, and size.
With all of the technological advances in today’s modern world, how often do you remember to check electrical devices for faults?
In particular, when was the last time you checked your electric banket?
It’s that time of year where people venture into their storage cupboards, seeking out their thick, heavy duvets and of course, their electric blankets.
The thing is, that without proper care and use, they can become an unexpected fire hazard.
The biggest concern are the wires and other components flowing through the blanket. Electricity goes into these wires to heat it and warm the bed. But anytime
electricity is present there’s the ever present danger.
All it takes is one wire to be pierced, shorted or frayed and you have a fire.
Crimped cords or wires can also cause hot spots that turn into fire hazards, so before turning it on, it’s important to know your electric blanket is in good working order.
At the first sign of wear, or just for peace of mind, have your electric blanket checked by a qualified electrician.
Replace your electric blanket every five years with newer heat protected designs which are safer.
When in use don’t place heavy objects on the bed while the blanket is on and make sure it’s always flat on the bed.
Damp homes promote mould and dust mites which can cause respiratory problems. While dehumidifiers and ventilation systems help reduce the symptoms of the problem, it’s important to track down the underlying cause of dampness in your home. The problem may be relatively cheap and easy to fix. What are some of the signs of dampness?
• Musty smells
• Damp or mouldy clothes or shoes in wardrobes
• Mould forming behind pictures, mirrors and furniture
• Mould, stains or watermarks on ceilings or walls
Marlborough has a wide range of businesses that can provide solutions to dampness in your home or business. Simply contact them to find out how they can help you.
Welcome to The Blenheim Sun’sWomen in Business Feature where we shine the light on local women achieving great things every day
What does your role entail?
I am a veterinarian and the owner/ operator of “The Soul Vet”. I offer Athome pet euthanasia, an alternative to the vet clinic.
What has been your biggest achievement?
My biggest achievement has been finding a healthy balance between my career, my family and my well-being. It hasn’t been easy at times.
Why I love where I live and work?
Living and working in Marlborough allows for an outdoor lifestyle whether it’s on the water or in the hills. Being outside in nature is where I feel most at home.
The greatest joy about what I do?
Although my work puts me at the heart of a profoundly sad moment in a family’s life, I am deeply humbled to witness the enduring love and unbreakable bond shared between humans and their animals.
When not working I enjoy?
Hanging out with my crazy, wonderful children and riding my horse, Zeus.
Webster
Raine & Horne Blenheim (previously Mike Pero Real Estate)
What does your role entail?
With hand on heart, all spectrums of day to day tasks, each property/ client is different from the last and treated accordingly, no two homes are the same and folk sell for different reasons. I actually care about the process!
What is your biggest achievement?
Number One Agent in NZ for number of homes sold, MPRE Hall of Fame Inductee I was speechless to say the least! Numerous awards in recognition of my effortless work.
Why I love where I live and work?
The diversity of the people I meet from all walks of life, meeting complete strangers in my business to making wonderful friends.
The greatest joy about what I do?
Almost 28 years in Real Estate, you never know who you will meet and knowing you have made their journey of buying or selling as stress free as I can!
When not working I enjoy?
An old ‘Petrol Head’ at heart proudly supporting Super Saloon Car Racing and over recent years proud major
A woman in the world I get inspiration from…
Jane Goodall. She is an extraordinary pioneer in animal welfare and conservation, a subject that is close to my heart
My priorities and hopes for the future...
My biggest priority in life is to be a good and kind person. My hope for the future is to be as sovereign as possible living off grid without a mortgage or debt.
Contact myself and my business because...
At home euthanasia allows your animal to pass in the familiarity of their own environment surrounded by their loved ones rather than the stress of the vet consult room.
021575426
soulvetmarlborough@gmail.com
sponsor of the Debbie the Webster Super Cup series.
A woman in the world I get inspiration from...
My Super Mum, she taught me honesty, integrity, respect and what empathy means. Always treat people the way you would want to be treated! (Oh the best roast).
My priorities and hopes for the future...
At the end of the day, all that really matters is that your loved ones are well, you’ve done your best and you’re thankful for all you have.
Contact myself/business because...
‘Trust’ is a firm belief in character and ability – ‘Trust’ in my profession has always been paramount!
Call me today 021 797 454
Saxon Wolfe
Educator with Nurture@Home ECE
What does your role entail?
As a home-based educator with Nurture@Home I provide a calm, caring environment that supports each child’s learning, play and development. Each week we attend planned programme outings and activities, so the children have opportunities to engage in larger group socialisation.
Why I love where I live and work?
I love working from my home and being able to provide a familiar safe, space for children to discover, play, and belong. How lucky am I to have the opportunity to explore our awesome Blenheim community on a regular basis as part of my role.
The greatest joy about what I do?
I love watching the children’s imaginations come to life and seeing the joy in their interactions. Those everyday moments of connection, creativity and learning are what make this role so fulfilling.
A woman in the world I get inspiration from…
My mum is my biggest inspiration and the reason I became a homebased Educator, as she used to be one too. Her care and dedication have always stayed with me and is
Wendy Lefebre
Sales and Interior Design
What does your role entail?
Selling beautiful furniture and accessories. Assisting customers in choosing styles and fabrics they love. In-home consultations, from one room to transforming an entire home.
What has been your biggest achievement?
To believe in myself and follow my passion. I graduated as an A student with my Interior Design Diploma then threw myself into this wonderful world of design and all things beautiful.
Why I love where I live and work?
The climate and landscape of Blenheim. The seasonal changes of colour are so inspiring. At work I am surrounded by beautiful things every day and a great team of colleagues. We have such a supportive and collaborative environment.
The greatest joy about what I do?
Creativity and connections with customers. I put my heart and soul into projects, no matter how big or small. I get lost in the creative process and it gives me such pleasure when it all comes together and the customer’s vision is created.
When not working I enjoy?
Time with my fabulous friends and family, filling my tank with fun and
what encouraged me to follow this path.
My priorities and hopes for the future...
I am currently working towards completing my qualification, supported by the incredible Nurture team. I’m excited about the journey ahead and look forward to continuing to support and nurture tamariki through their early years and future development in my role.
Contact myself and my business because...
Nurture@Home is an amazing place where genuine relationships are at the heart of everything we do. Whether you’re seeking quality childcare or thinking about becoming an Educator, the support and sense of purpose here make it a truly rewarding journey.
Phone 027 300 8656
laughter and a good wine. Going for walks or relaxing with a great read.
A woman in the world I get inspiration from...
Sophie Robinson is an Interior Designer from the UK. She is inspiration plus for me. Her philosophy, bold use of colour and pattern in her designs, I just adore. Listening to her podcast with Kate Watson-Smyth is a breath of fresh air and oh so stimulating.
My priorities and hopes for the future...
To continue to grow and be inspired by all things “design”, and be the best I can be at what I do. That customers are confident in what I do and discover what great things we can create together.
Contact myself/business because...
We’re here to help you and we’ll go that extra mile. We take time with our customers; it is important to us that a customer leaves feeling heard and enjoyed their experience with us at Lynfords.
Wonderful range of exhibitors offering expert advice, fresh ideas, inspiration and practical solutions for your homes, gardens, & lifestyle
Builders, plants, double glazing, solar solutions, spas, flooring, heating, homewares & more
Free daily Q & A sessions, bring along your plan’s questions & ideas including Resident Builder Peter Wolfkamp on Saturday
Wonderful selection of artisan goods, art, well-being & lifestyle products
Enjoy exclusive show specials, giveaways & family fun with Resene from 11-2 Sat & Sun
Enter to WIN the Marlborough Home and Garden Show prize thanks to Beds4U and Innate Furniture, valued at over $10,000!
Take a break from the shopping and enjoy a bite to eat in the food court with a delicious range of food and beverages
Children are being given the chance to dig in for a good cause at a free planting event. People of all ages are invited to the Junior Landcare planting in Blenheim, run by the New Zealand Landcare Trust and Marlborough Forest & Bird.
Organised by Junior Landcare, a national NZ Landcare Trust initiative supported by the Bupa Foundation, the planting aims to encourage environmental stewardship.
Volunteers will plant 250 native seedlings on top of 1200 already growing. A free barbeque lunch follows, finishing at 12.30pm. Registration begins at 9.20am followed by a
mihi, karakia and talk describing the Taylor River’s importance to early Māori. Forest & Bird Marlborough will explain the background to the restoration project, started in 2023. Bring your own gardening tools, plus some will be provided.
To reach the planting, walk under the New Renwick Road Bridge from the olive grove carpark, then five minutes downstream. If the weather’s not suitable, the planting will be postponed until the following Sunday, July 20.
Email wendy.sullivan@landcare.org.nz, for catering and event notifications.
Dear Ed
Now that Iran’s proxies - Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthis - have been largely defanged and Iran’s nuclear and missile programme severely damaged, this dangerous death cult is no longer such a threat to Israel, the U.S. and the West. We can all feel a whole lot safer. This is all thanks to Israel’s courageous IDF and the precision of America’s bunker bomb.
Trump’s strong decisive action sets America once again as a formidable force on the world stage. Luckily for New Zealand, the U.S. have committed
to protecting the Indo Pacific. It’s time for our flag flyers to turn their attention to other battles such as the Islamic slaughter of Christians in North Africa or the victims of the civil war in Sudan. Islamism has a long history of brutal violence and conquest from the 7th century AD which is why the Middle East will not take refugees from Islamic countries such as Gaza or the West Bank.
Here’s hoping for peace in the Middle East.
June Auret Blenheim
Report by Ryan Webb
What a start to the series! France really pressured the All Blacks from the opening whistle. They had some really good go-forward ball and they really pushed the ABs in the set piece.
I was really impressed with how the ABs got back on their feet after a bit of a disastrous start. It took a while for them to get going, but when they did, they looked threatening, particularly around the edges. Some spectacular work by the forwards impressed me as the whole pack really performed, particularity at scrum time. The French did well on defence, tackling their hearts out, as the lion’s share of the possession was with the ABs.
After half time, the ABs put in a big shift and they really made the French pay with some of their plays. Even though some of the plays didn’t transfer into points, it was still great momentum by the ABs.
The ABs bench did a great job when they came on. They continued the momentum and produced some epic plays. Du’Plesiss Karifi had an impressive debut, making a huge impact from the minute he came on. Some plays he really put his body on the line for and you could see how much being in the ABs meant to him. In conclusion, the ABs had to really
Dear Ed,
Some of your correspondents have a soft heart for the Arabs and a hard heart for the Jews! Like many others, they mention genocide, yet UN figures give a 22,000 Gaza growth in 2024. This is after thousands of Hamas fighters killed. After the 1948 uprising and concerted effort to destroy Israel, there were around 156,000 Arabs left in Israel. By 2025, the number had grown to 2.104 million. They have the vote, a life expectancy 10 years longer, and in all other aspects they are far better off than those in neighbouring Arab countries.
We can all see what damage Hamas has done to Gaza, the Houthi to Yemen, and Hezbollah done to Lebanon. These groups are supported and armed by Iran, but because they call for the obliteration of Israel, I dare say that your correspondents support them.
fight for this one. Even though it wasn’t a convincing win in my opinion, I think next week they will be a bit more in the know of how the French team play and they will be a bit better prepared. It will be interesting to see if Scott Robinson makes any changes, or if he sticks with the same starting line-up. It will also be interesting to see if the ABs adopt some new tactics or whether they stay with the tried and true as the French have proved they are no easy beats.
Regarding starvation, I read that 60 children have died in Gaza, all had medical problems. From Oct 7, 2023 to May 31, 2025, in 6 countries, 181,000 have died of starvation. Regarding genocide, we sometimes hear of Darfur, Sudan, where the Arabs have killed over 400,000 to get rid of the non-Muslim blacks. We rarely hear of the almost daily attacks on Christian villages in North Nigeria, over 50,000 slaughtered, millions displaced and villages and land taken over.
Incidentally, if a ‘Palestinian’ state is created, it would largely be in the Jewish heritage lands of Judah and Samaria, including the Biblical Jerusalem, re-occupied by Israel from Jordan during a war, and it would make the 23rd Arab country.
John Vile Blenheim
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Marlborough’s favourite read for 22 years LOCAL PEOPLE - LOCAL VIEWS - LOCAL NEWS
Previously called Blenheim Toyota Panel and Paint, now rebranded as Blenheim Collision Repairs, this iconic local business is still part of the McDermid Auto Collective and all that brings with it, including an extensive list of services which BCR can offer, and a great team that delivers top results.
Tucked in behind the Blenheim Toyota dealership on Park Terrace is a large panel beating and fabrication workshop, and situated alongside are two vehicle painting booths.
The team of nine experienced and qualified panel beaters, fabricators and paint refinishers take on any job and complete the work to a high standard.
Why? Because they all love what they do and they’re backed up with the latest technology and equipment.
Manager Nick Weaver says the scope
of service they offer can be from heavy collision to smaller repairs, repairing motorhomes and caravans, restoration, or just a simple full cut and polish on any vehicle or boat.
An example of one of the more unique jobs completed is marine work; repairing and painting of hulls and top sides.
“Motorbikes, joinery and furniture refinishing – our painters are well skilled to work on a wide range of projects.
“We are a member of, and have a strong relationship with the Collision Repair Association (CRA) which means that our customers can trust that no matter the scale of damage to their vehicle, we will have it returned to them at the highest level of workmanship and safety.
“We pride ourselves on the feedback we receive from our customers. Usually the customer can be quite stressed when they are in for an assessment after an accident, so we take great satisfaction in delivering a more personalised customer service
during the entire repair process and seeing the relief from the customer on receiving their repaired vehicle back.
“And being Collision Repair specialists, we are approved repairers and recommended by all insurance companies,”
Nick says.
Blenheim Collision Repairs strives to provide an easy and enjoyable experience, right from the moment you step into their office.
The first friendly face at reception is that of Cathy Griffin, who makes sure the customers’ needs are looked after and provides reassurance to those dealing with insurance claims.
From there it is Nick’s job to take over and provide assessments and estimates for each job, and coordinate the work.
The workshop and painting team take care of the rest.
Call in and see the team at Blenheim Collision Repairs at 3 Park Terrace, or phone (03) 578 4319.
24. Incantation (5)
Across: 1. Sponsor, 5. Arsenal, 9. Tiffs, 10. Primarily, 11. Proximity, 12. Easel, 13. Noose, 15. Animosity, 18. Corpulent, 19. Tepid, 21. Basic, 23. Ferocious, 25. Avalanche, 26. Alibi, 27. Endless, 28. Extreme. Down: 1. Set upon, 2. Offcolour, 3. Sushi, 4. Replicate, 5. Amity, 6. Scapegoat, 7. Nails, 8. Loyalty, 14. Enunciate, 16. Intervene, 17. Improvise, 18. Cabbage, 20. Despite, 22. Shard, 23. Focus, 24. Chant. Age, amen, gam, game, gean, gem, gen, mag, mage, man, mana, MANAGE, mane, mange, mean, meg, mega, men, nag, name.
World Refugee Day on Friday at My Space brought people together from different cultures across the community. Visitors made new connections and enjoyed discovering more about other countries.
St Mary’s Preschool turned 50 years old and marked the milestone with a community celebration on Friday.
GREAT HAIR DOESN’T HAPPEN BY CHANCE, IT HAPPENS BY APPOINTMENT.
Are you a dog or cat person? Cats.
Favourite global cuisine?
I love fresh Mediterranean cuisine.
What would you buy if money was no object? If I said anything other than a farm so my daughter could have a horse, I’d be in big trouble! I’d selfishly love a Dodge Challenger.
Celebrity-wise who would be at your dream dinner party?
Jeremy Clarkson, Mike Rowe and Tim Allen. It would definitely make for an interesting evening.
Veggies or fruit?
Fresh fruit.
The shop you can’t walk past is...?
Facebook Marketplace. You always find something you never knew you needed.
If you didn’t live in Marlborough where would you choose?
Somewhere warm and sunny. We love Fiji, I’d be happy to live there.
Favourite programme or series currently watching?
We are re-watching Shameless at the moment.
What do you do for your own mental health? Sitting in peace to watch a good TV show. Or going on a holiday with the family.
What’s your favourite colour? Black.
If you had to choose another job what would it be? My dream job would be a NICU cuddler.
The best advice I ever received was?
When we had our first child, my Dad said to us that everyone will give opinions on how you should parent, so listen, smile and nod, and then just do what you as the parent feel is best.
My friends would say I am..... Funny, quirky, a master of all trades who will give anything a try!
Trees can be a blessing and sometimes an annoyance. They provide shelter, reduce noise and enhance landscape but for some they are annoying. They can block views or cast shade where you don’t want it as well as causing problems as their roots spread, especially with raised gardens.
You can to a certain extent, grow plants in the roots zone of a tree but they will need continual applications of food to grow as the tree will be stealing a lot of the goodness.
Now here is another important tip if you are going to cut down a tree you should ring bark it first and let it die before cutting it down. This will kill the canopy and the root system which helps prevent lots of suckers appearing all over the place for years to come.
Many trees produce suckers, but some species are naturally more prone to it than others. Trees like poplars, willows, sumac, and some fruit trees (like cherries and plums) are known for freely producing suckers.
Additionally, trees that have been grafted, or those under stress from injury or disease, may also produce suckers to try and survive.
Ring barking, also known as girdling, is the process of removing a complete ring of bark around a tree trunk or branch, effectively cutting off the flow of water and nutrients. This disruption can lead to the death
of the tree or a branch above the damaged area.
The alternative is to treat the freshly cut stump with chemical herbicides to kill the root system. Products that can be used to Kill the Tree Roots and Prevent Re-Sprouting are Kiwicare Weed Weapon Stump Stop Gel which is formulated to effectively kill tree roots.
Now afterwards you still have the stump and unless you want to use it as a seat or make some sort of garden feature out of it then you will likely want to get rid of it.
There are contractors that have stump grinders which will pulverise the wood access can be an issue and costs an average of between $100 to $400, depending on the size, diameter and removal method.
The cost of stump removal is $2 to $6 per inch for stump grinding with minimum fees of $80 to $160. Tree root and trunk removal costs $75 to $200 per hour.
So if you are not in a hurry to get rid of the stump there’s Wallys Stump Rotter which is potassium nitrate or often known as Saltpetre.
Saltpeter, also spelled saltpetre, is a common name for potassium nitrate (KNO3). It’s a white crystalline substance also used in gunpowder, fertilisers, and as a food preservative.
To use, simply drill holes in the stump as shown on the label and pour the potassium nitrate down the holes. Don’t plug off or cover and leave it to
eat into the wood. The stump starts to break up at anywhere from about 6 months to 12 months.
Another great use for potassium nitrate is as a weed killer. Sprinkle some potassium nitrate onto the crown of the plant when its dry and then with the moisture from the plant it will burn the plant out. It doesn’t harm soil life and is an easy way to individually treat weeds like the dandelions.
Wallys Super Stump Rotter (Ammonium Sulphonate) will also eat into wood and is sprinkled over a freshly scoured stump and then covered with a plastic bag to protect from weather.
Its 200 grams in the container and you add to one litre of water of which about 250 mils is watered over the foliage of an oxalis plant going down into the soil to compost the bulbs and help clear up this pesky plant. The one litre can be sprayed over weeds ideally on a sunny day when the ground is on the dry side to compost the weeds where they are growing. Potassium nitrate is also used as a fertiliser to boost plants growth during the growing season. It is best mixed with Ammonium Sulphate, combine two parts Sulphate of Ammonia and one part Potassium Nitrate and can be used to boost growth of cucumbers and other cubits such as pumpkins, melons, squash, gherkins, zucchini and gourds.
Check out our new setup - it’s very cool!
Our renovations are underway but our food truck and coffee machine are still pumping!
And we still have great food available - plus some BRAND NEW menu items.
Our building may be at half capacity but our coffee is at full steam.
I so love reading TXT TALK and learning what Marlborough really thinks, but the THANK YOU’s especially warm my heart. We all matter Marlborough.
Thanks to James at BP Computers for his patience explaining things to me. Brilliant service!
Well done to our wonderful Blenheim District Brass Band who have just returned from the national competition. I’m sure you did us proud, and I understand there were some stand-out individual performances.
Thank you Bill Holvey for your letter 02/07. I am that old as well and have good recall of history - I can’t fault you.
Logic versus convenience in world politics. Convenience has always won and probably always will. Sad!
Horton Park has turned into a free camping ground thanks to the blue and grey bus that’s been parked there and lived in for weeks. Now it’s attracted other campers to do the same. Pathetic that the parking ranger at council or the police are not stepping in and moving it out!
Has been blocking many car parks now for too long.
How sad that the Paranui Animal Sanctuary was flooded and possibly destroyed. Let’s hope a campaign might be raised to see if a long term solution can be found.
I’m delighted to read of the not guilty verdict for local health professional.
My late mother and I both trusted this health professional and I was saddened to hear about this case.
If the practise ever opened again I would go back in a flash.
I hope life can return to normal for this health professional. All the best for your future.
I had surgery done by a local health professional and requested photos.
These were emailed to me without question.
At no time did I feel uncomfortable or ill at ease. I am supportive of the outcome of the trial. It has cost this man his business and reputation.
Some of us are with you.
In a previous life I owned a shop in a town that decided closing the main street to traffic was a good idea.
Most people want to park as close to their chosen destination as possible, just watch outside supermarkets & hardware shops.
So for one morning and in the weekend, all businesses suffer a huge downturn, and by the way, where is the Nelson market?
In a car park, not on the main street.
A tremendous amount of the recent flooding of Blenheim’s streets would have been averted if the local council had a regular street/gutter sweeping arrangement to prevent the autumnal contaminants... leaves... from entering our storm water system. Quite an easy fix, really.
Perhaps now that Springlands supermarket etc are under new ownership something will be done about the dreadful potholes in the car park.
It’s a helluva mess.
The only change is a few more cars. All trucks and most cars have been using it for years. Just means now NZTA will maintain it, not council.
Obviously those people who mentioned it last week have not studied it.
Blenheim has beautiful, naturally sand filtered, UV treated, great tasting artesian water. Why put chlorine in it because of Havelock North’s negligence?
MDC overseas our water excellently. Let’s keep our water as it it - free from chlorine and fluoride.
I urge everyone to who cares about our lovely Marlborough water to get along to the meeting this Thursday. And I hope MDC have people there as well.
Another awesome Independence Day 04/07/25. The whole world should enjoy a Constitution securing individual rights - a moral foundation of rational self interest. With that, all these divisive grievances plaguing our freedom to live our lives without coercion would go away.
Think about this: liberty, equality for all.
With all the rain lately how many of us fell over or aqua planed on those slippery tiles?
Would be interesting to get ACC stats on falls and injuries in the CBD.
Concrete or asphalt a better choice.
What a lovely heart-warming story in The Sun (July 2) on this family who have come to NZ as refugees and settled in Blenheim. You have beautiful children and you all deserve to be safe. Welcome!
Re: Special thanks to kind policeman and his dog
Brilliant story, the best this year! Paper should have a picture and details of the event. Good for police too. All my friends read it.
A big thank you to the men from Gills for their kindness in driving all the way from Springlands to Riversdale to help unload sandbags for me on Friday.
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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.
Kiwis are sometimes dubbed a laid-back bunch, even bordering on apathetic. Prospective councillors could help enlighten them by spelling out their views on democracy at a local government level.
Sat 21 June Nett-Nick Wright 68;Jerome January 69;Sharyn Eden 71;Ian Aldridge 75,Doug Paulin (Riverton)75;Dinz Fletcher (Nelson)75,Minty Molloy 75,Richard Rolton 75;Ant Booker76,Mark Ivamy 76,Mike McGuire 76.
Sun 22 June-ITM Business House
Final S/F-Bayleys 482;HR Engineering 474;Mint Air 450,Flammin’Tee 444,Picton ITM 444. Individual Winners over 4 rounds- Ladies Ellie Gilles 134;- Men Micheal Jones 147. Ladies Anita McCaffrey 30,Ellie Gillies 30;Pauline Pottinger 27. Men-Micheal Jones 41;Ben Black-
man 38;Jeff Pascoe 36,Jerome January 36,Albertus Van Dyk 36,Roedolf Erasmus 36,Wayne Pratt 36,Tim McCaffrey 36;Louis Agenbag 34,Greg Ruffell 34,Graham Morell 34,Mark Ivamy 34,Jack Evans 33;Gary Aldridge 33,Hiram Taylor 33,Ant Booker 33.
Tues 1 July LGU Nett-Overall winner Jo Prescott 69;Barbara Speedy 76;Maggie Donnelly 79;Dido Harper80;Anita McCaffrey 82.
Wed 2 July Barry Slater 40;Jerome January 38;Graham Morell 36,Mike Ashworth 36;Gary Aldridge 35,Minty Molly 35; Jock Mannington 34,Leigh McGlynn 34.
The Marlborough Ploughing Association (Inc.)
Date - Monday 21st July 2025, Time - 7.30pm, Venue - Woodbourne Tavern Restaurant, Renwick
All Members and interested individuals are welcome to attend.
Double Glazing - Beat the rush with Marlborough Glass. Stay warm, dry, and healthy with Retro-fit Double Glazing for your Timber and Aluminium Windows. DON’T DELAYTALK TO US TODAY FOR A FREE MEASURE AND QUOTE! Ph 578-5374.
HAVELOCK BOWLING CLUB
Will be held in the Clubrooms 7 Neil Street, Havelock Sunday 27 July at 1pm
AGENDA:
Minutes of 2024 AGM
Financial Reports
Election of Officers
General Business New members welcome
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 closed. Public Holidays - phone us to be advised Community Care Pharmacy: Within the Blenheim Warehouse, open 7 days 9am6pm. Closed on Public Holidays. Lifeline Marlborough: 0800 543354, 24hr helpline.
Women’s Refuge and Sexual Violence Support Centre Marlborough: Crisis line number phone 0800 refuge or 03 5779939.
Victim Support: 0800 VICTIM (0800 842 846)
Alcoholics Anonymous: 0800 AA WORKS - 0800 229 6757.
Citizens Advice Bureau: Free, friendly, confidential advice. Mon - Fri 9.30am4pm. 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.
B a I n B r I d GE, Lynette (Pea/Sweet Pea) (née Arthur)
On Friday 4 July 2025, peacefully at Bethsaida Rest Home, after a hard-fought battle with brain cancer, aged 66 years. Dearly loved wife of Tom, mother of Jarrid, Nathaniel and Tara. Grandmother of Toby, Tilly, Indie, Beau, Sophie, Brooke and Sam. Sister to Diane, Cherie, Jonathan, Judy and Andy. Messages to the Bainbridge family c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz Thank you to the staff at Hospice Marlborough for their wonderful care and support over the last 18 months and to all the staff at Bethsaida Rest Home for the care and compassion shown to Lynette in her final weeks. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Marlborough Hospice via their website (ref: Bainbridge) would be appreciated or can be made at the service. A funeral service will be held at the Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, 15 Boyce Street, Blenheim on Friday 11 July at 2pm followed by private cremation. The service for Lynette will be livestreamed and can be viewed on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Services website.
Cloudy Bay Funerals 03 578 2004 F.D.A.N.Z.
BISHOP, Catherine Gay
We are saddened to announce the death of Catherine Gay Bishop, 77 years, who passed away peacefully at home surrounded by friends and family on Saturday 5th July. Loved sister of Graham (deceased), Jenny, Rosie, Derrick, Jill and Wayne. Mother of Toni, Bridget and Lara. Messages to 171 Tahunanui Drive, Nelson 7011 or www. cloudybayfunerals.co.nz
GEOrGE, Louise Agnes “Lou” (née Rennie): Passed away peacefully on Thursday/,/ July 3, 2025, at Wairau Hospital, surrounded by her loving family, aged 88 years. Dearly loved wife of the late Ray. Loved Mum and Mother-in-law of Trish and Ross, Yvonne (Eve), Cathy and Craig, Max and Rhonda. Loved Nan of Tom and Sarah, Libby, Gracie and George, Grace, Maggie, Charmaine, Amber and Olivia and their partners. Loved Great Nan of Bazil, Jack, Hazel, Luke, June, Maddy, Archie, Bailey, Jahmahl, Skye, Evie and Asher. Special thanks to Lou’s dear friend Lynne Yealands and Niece Chrissy Maher, the staff at Wairau Hospital, and Ashwood Park staff especially Lesley and Malia. Messages may be sent to the George Family at 1 Garden Terrace, Picton 7220. Lou’s service was livestreamed and details can be accessed via: www.sowmans.co.nz/ upcoming-funerals A celebration of Lou’s life was held on Monday, July 7, followed by private family interment at Fairhall Cemetery.
T: 03 578 4719
E: sowmans@funerals.co.nz W: www.sowmans.co.nz
Br E nda Folster
9/02/2023 Darling Wife, Our beautiful Mum, Loving Nana. Our second year without you, your loss from our lives still hurts, we wished we could have had you longer, but that’s not how life works. We talk about you always, often still with tears, The heartache of losing you is our heavy cross to bear, Forever we are grateful for the memories of you. The love for you in our hearts forever remains true. Love and miss you everyday, Bill, Sharon, Mike, Shayna, Geoff and Brodie
BLICK, Peter Arthur John
Passed away Saturday 5 July 2025 at Wairau Hospital with family at his side. Aged 85 years. Loved husband of the late Janice. Loved father and father-in-law of Susan, Gary and Sheryl, and Jeffrey and Colleen. Loved Grandad to his grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. Special thanks to Aberleigh Resthome and Wairau Hospital for their love and care shown to Peter. Messages to the Blick Family, 141 Alabama Road, Blenheim 7201 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz A service to celebrate Peter’s life will be held at the Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, 15 Boyce Street, Blenheim on Thursday 10 July at 10am followed by interment at the Upper Wairau Cemetery.
On Wednesday 2 July 2025, passed away peacefully at Ashwood Park Retirement Village. Aged 90 years. Dearly loved only son of the late Carrie and Ted Jukes. Loved husband of the late Nell. Treasured father of Dexter and Dawn, father-in-law of Lyell. Fun loving grandfather of Kevin and Brooke, Nicholas and Rachel. Special great grandfather to Connor and Caitlin. Messages to c/- Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, PO Box 9, Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz In lieu of flowers a donation can be made to Alzheimers Marlborough, a/c no. 02 0600 0112284-00 Reference Jukes or may be made at the service. Special thanks to the staff at Ashwood Resthome and Waterlea Resthome and Alzheimer’s Marlborough for their care to Ken. A memorial service for Ken will be held at the Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funerals, 15 Boyce Street, Blenheim on Thursday 10 July at 2.00pm. The service will be livestreamed and available to view on the Cloudy Bay Funerals website.
7”, 45s, singles, eps records wanted, any amount, top prices paid. Pennylane Records, 430 Colombo Street, Sydenham. Ring Dave 021 222 6144, 7 days. P E nnylan E Records always buying records. Excellent prices paid. 430 Colombo Street, Sydenham 366 3278 Open 7 days R E co RD s wanted by local bands 60s to 2000s. I will pay Serenity Piece of Mind $2000,
Dave 021 222 6144 Pennylane Records, Sydenham 7 days.
GILL, David Bruce (Dave)
On 6 July 2025, peacefully at his home, aged 70 years. Dearly loved husband of Bev and a much-loved father and father-in-law of Matt and Kerry (Christchurch); Brendan and Kate (Czech Republic); Amanda and Brendon Duff. Adored Ga to Ethan and Jazmin; and Grandad across the road to Evie and Quinn. Loved brother-in-law, uncle, cousin, nephew and friend. Messages to the Gill family c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz Special thanks to the staff of Wairau Hospital and Hospice Marlborough for their care of Dave. In lieu of flowers a donation to the Marlborough Hospice Trust via their website would be appreciated. In accordance with Dave’s wishes, a private cremation has taken place.
SUMBY, Maureen Enid
Passed away peacefully at Bethsaida Retirement Village on Sunday, July 6, 2025, aged 96 years. Dearly loved wife of the late George Richard Sumby. Much loved mother of Linda, Edward, Neville, Yvonne, Chrissy, Denise and families, including 15 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren.Special thanks to Bethsaida Retirement Village for the compassionate care from the staff, nurses and carers on her last days. Messages may be sent to the Sumby family, 1789 Kenepuru Road, RD 2 Picton, 7282 or email Maureen’s daughter Linda at _lindafhello@ gmail.com _. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to Hospice Marlborough Trust. *Account Number:* 06-0601-0148609-00. A farewell service and celebration of her life will be held at the Sowmans Mayfield Chapel at 1.00pm on Friday, July 11. Please join us for a cup of tea in the Sowman Lounge afterwards.
Thursday
Marlborough Museum
- Brayshaw Heritage, New exhibition, HOMECOMING - Memories of ‘45. Exhibition open Tues/Thurs/Sundays 11-3pm. Cost of entry $10, children free.
Older Persons Seminar
– Held on the 4th Thursday of each month, 10am-1pm, St Christopher’s Anglican Church.
A seminar for people ages 65+, with a guest speaker, entertainment and light-hearted fun. Morning tea and lunch provided for $6.
Marlborough Camera Club
- meetings on 2nd Thursday of the month at St Mary’s Community Centre, Maxwell Rd at 7pm. Workshops are held on the 4th Thursday of the month. Everybody with an interest in photography welcome. Cancer Society Marlborough: Women Partners of men living with cancer Support Group - Coffee and connecting. Peer support for women partners of men living with cancer. Every third Thursday of the Month 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm. Cancer Society Rooms, 76A Maxwell Road, Blenheim.
Picton Poets
– Held the 4th Thursday of the month, 10.3011.30am, Picton Library, all welcome. Phone Lyn 021 129 4342.
Keep U Moving
- Gentle indoor walking exercise for seniors.
11.30am-12.30pm $3.00. St Christopher’s Church Hall, 92 Weld St. Ph 0273852333 or donna@stchristophers.co.nz
Older Persons Seminar
– Held 4th Thursday of each month. $6.00. Contact Donna 027 385 2333 or donna@ stchristophers.co.nz
Table Tennis
- Blenheim Indoor Sports Centre. Table Tennis session every Thursday, 6.30pm - 8.30pm, $6 per person to be paid at front desk.
Social Badminton Club
- 9am-11.30 Thursday mornings. Simcox Stadium, Battys Road. $6. All adults welcome. For more details phone Cathy 021 503 348.
Ulysses Retreads Group -11am at Brayshaw Park every Thursday. Ride to various destinations for lunch. Bring your laughing gear, a thermal to wear and a story to share.
Library Book Club
- 6.30pm-8pm Marlborough District Library. We meet on the last Thursday of the month. Simply bring a book to recommend to other members, and enjoy listening to other member’s (including librarians) book picks.
Picton Library Book Club
- 6.30pm-8pm - Picton Library and Service Centre. Join us in meeting new people and chatting about books. We meet on the first Thursday of each month. To register email pictonlibrary@marlborough.govt.nz.
Knit and Natter
- Marlborough Library from 10am. Come along and join the friendly group of social knitters upstairs in the library each Thursday morning. Bring along your knitting project and/or get inspiration from other knitters. No need to register.
Company Café
– Picton Library 10.30am Thursdays. Pop in and spend a while with us chatting, chilling and relaxing. Tea, coffee and snack provided. Everybody welcome.
Blenheim Nightriders
- Weekly, local, off-road bike rides 10-40kms for fitness, social and safety. Meet at the library, leaving 8pm for approx 2hrs. No fee, super casual. More info on Facebook, Blenheim Nightriders group or contact info@ridethewhale.co.nz
Blenheim Bible Education
- 7:00-8:00pm [TIME CHANGE], Marlborough Library. Free Bible Seminar. Prior contact appreciated, but walk-ins welcome. Contact: info@blenheimbibleeducation.nz. Website: www.blenheimbibleeducation.nz.”
Friday
Blenheim Family History Group in Picton
- Fortnightly at Picton Library, 1.30pm-3.30pm
Need help with your family history research? Meet members of the Blenheim Family History Group. Contact Helen 0210390106.
Marlborough Vintage and Farm Machinery
Society
- Brayshaw Heritage Park, open weekdays 10.00 am - 3.00 pm and Saturday mornings. For further details contact Gerard (Secretary) 022 039 2460.
Classic Coffee
– Weekly at Connect Marlborough, 3 Beaver Road. 9am-12pm. A group of mainly retirees who enjoy connecting with others in the same stage of life but if you are younger or still in the work force, don’t let that stop you!
Link Board games and Puzzles
– 1pm-4pm Nativity Lounge, Church of the Nativity, 76 Alfred Street. A time of board games and afternoon tea. No strangers here, only friends we have not met. Gold coin donation is appreciated. Transport to and from Link can be arranged if needed, phone 5783909
Tunes 4 Tots
– every Friday during term time 9.30am-10.30am.
Music, play and morning tea for 0-6 year olds. Donation of $3 per child/$5 per family. Nativity Church, 76A Alfred Street. For more information contact 5783909
Play and Learn
– Blenheim Library 9am-12pm during term time. No cost. Care-giver led play-based learning for children under 5. Books, toys, games, puzzles and activities available for use.
Saturday
Marlborough Orchid Society Guest Speaker
–Leslie Newton, experienced orchid grower will talk on Dendrobium orchid species and their cultivation needs. If you have recently purchased an orchid, come along and learn what to do and when so they grow into beautiful flowering plants. 12 July, 2pm-3.30pm, Foundry Hall on John Street. $5 admission. Some plants available for sale. Redwoodtown Market - 8am-12 noon, Cleghorn St. Supporting Marlborough Food Bank. Variety of stalls. Something for everyone.
Marlborough Quilters meeting
- every 2nd Saturday of the month at Marlborough Vintage and Farm Machinery, Brayshaw Park. 10am - 4pm. Learn quilting or bring your own projects. Sewing Machines available. Newcomers welcome. Liz 0212067382.
Blenheim Chess Club
- Meets at Table Top Café, Scott Street, every Saturday 10am – 1pm. All welcome.
Ulysses Club
- Every Saturday, coffee at The Runway Café, Woodbourne, 10am. Depart The Runway at 10.30am.
The Blenheim Rotary Club Boot Sale Market
- 8am till midday. Blenheim Railway Station Car Park.
Marlborough Artesian Craft Market - Cnr Market Street & High Street, 9:00am - 2:00pm Stallholders include local artisans both casual and regular attendees as well as visitors from around the country. Entertainment area for kids.
Riverside Railway, Brayshaw Park Station
– Train is being hauled by a Vintage Diesel Engine on the Beaver Line Sunday 13th and 20th, 1.45pm along the Taylor River and the Omaka Line at 1.15pm. Check Details at www.riversiderailway. nz and Facebook for other information and updates following the flooding.
Marlborough Museum
- 11am-3pm every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday. Adults $10, children free. The Museum celebrates an inspiring collection of items which tell the story of Marlborough and its people.
Marlborough Farmers’ Market - 9am-noon. Marlborough A&P Showgrounds. Fresh produce from your local farmers. Tasty line
up of fresh and seasonal, gourmet and artisan produce and products that this region has to offer.
Picton Rail and Sail
- On the Foreshore - mini train rides and mini yacht hire to sail on our pond every Sunday 11am-3pm. Only 20 cents per ride/yacht hire!
Blenheim Bonsai Group
- Islington Gardens, Rowberry Road on the 2nd Sunday of the month 1pm-3.30pm.
Marlborough Tennis Club
– Social Tennis. 3pm-5pm Parker Street. Non Members $2. All welcome. Contact 027 578 6436 for information.
Ulysses Social Ride
- Sunday rides are now by WhatsApp under Marlborough Ulysses lets ride. All rides are weather dependent.
Lego Club
- Picton Library@ 1-4pm. Marlborough Library @10am-4pm, Come along each Sunday afternoon to build a Lego kit in the Library. Each week there is an assortment of kits to choose from to build in a designated area. Everyone is welcome to have a go.
This free activity is great fun for the whole family!
Marlborough Vintage Car Club
- 1:30-3:30pm, Brayshaw Park, Arthur Baker Pl, Blenheim. Other times by arrangement. Ph Bill 0275784322. Donation appreciated. New members welcome
Monday
Target Rifle Shooting
- Athletic Park Range. Blenheim Club 7pm, cost $10, contact 02102464417.
Table Tennis
- every Monday at the Tua Marina Hall, Tua Marina 6.00pm - 8.00pm $5 per person. Contact Janice 027 422 9095
Marlborough Stamp Collectors Club
- 34 Arthur Baker Pace. Phone 021 157 3496 for more information.
Rotary Clubs in Blenheim
- Monday & Tuesday evenings at 5.30pm. Rotary is a world-wide service club for men and women, doing great things in your community. For further details phone Kevin on 0211 738 784. Blenheim Scottish Country Dance Club
- Every Monday at 7.00pm at St Andrews Church Hall, Corner Alfred and Henry Street, Blenheim. Come and try it! You don’t need a partner. For information ring Heather 02102587325. Whitehead Park Bowling Club Redwoodtown
- Monday afternoons from 12.30pm to 3pm. All welcome. Contact Mike 572 4013 or John 577 5295. Beginners Line Dancing
- Senior Citizen Hall, 172 High Street, 2:00-3:00pm & 6.00-7.00pm. Come along and enjoy the music, make new friends, have fun and learn to dance. You don’t need a partner. All welcome men, women and children over 12. The first lesson is free for new beginner’s then $7 per class. For information phone Judith 5787554 or 0212341095.
Friendship Club Marlborough
- Semi Retired or Retired. Meet 4th Tuesday of the month 10am at St Mary’s Parish Centre, Maxwell Road. Speakers, outings all in Friendship, Fellowship & Fun. Les McKay 5778207 or 021463922
Blenheim Badminton Club
- Tuesdays from 7-8.30pm for adults at Marlborough Boys’ College Gym. Junior Club in Terms 2 & 3 on Tuesdays from 6-7pm, also at MBC Gym. For more information visit: www.sporty.co.nz/ blenheimbadminton Target Rifle Shooting
- Athletic Park Range. Services Club 7.00pm, cost $10, contact 0276522640.
Cancer Society Marlborough: Blue Brothers – Men’s exercise and comraderyFREE exercise and peer support - Every Tuesday -10 am Stadium 2000, Kinross Street, Blenheim. Cancer Society Marlborough: Breast Cancer Support Group - Peer support and connection in a safe welcoming space. Every second Tuesday of the Month 7pm - 8pm at the Cancer Society Rooms, 76 A Maxwell Road, Blenheim.
needs. 12 July, 2pm-3.30pm, Foundry hall on John Street. $5 admission.
Marlborough Museum
- 11am-3pm. Adults $10, children free. The Museum celebrates an inspiring collection of items which tell the story of Marlborough and its people.
Steady As You Go (SAYGO)
- Gentle Exercise/Balance Class for seniors. 11.30am12.30pm, $3.00. St Christopher’s Church Hall, 92 Weld St. Ph 0273852333 donna@stchristophers.co.nz.
Toastmasters Club
- In Blenheim meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday, 6:30pm, Community Centre, St Mary’s, 59 Maxwell Road. Friendly group that encourages people. Learn how to give a speech, how to tell stories, how to make business presentations etc. Ideal for young people entering the workforce. Older adults are welcome to share their experiences. No charge for guests. Contact: Vivienne 021 0544003.
Marlborough Tennis Club
–Social Tennis Parker Street. Every Tuesday 8.30am to midday. Morning Tea at 10am. Non Members $5. All Welcome. Contact 0275786436.
Lions Club of Havelock
- Providing community service in the Pelorus area. Meeting every 3rd Tuesday, at Havelock Hotel. Inquiries to Ian Cameron phone 574 2558.
Knitters and Spinners
- Picton Library and Service Centre from 10.30am. Bring your morning tea along and current project to work on. Share your ideas, skills or simply enjoy time with fellow creators. There’s no need to book a spot, simply turn up on the day.
Cheeky Monkeys
- Marlborough Library. Join one of our sessions of fun and creativity for children under five years old. Session 1,10am to 10.45am or Session 2, 11am to 11.45am. Sessions include stories, songs and simple fun craft. No need to register, just come along.
Picton Line Dancing
- 10-11.30am. Anglican Church Hall $7 per class. Beginners welcome. Phone Carol 0212125252 or Raewyn 021715484.
Renwick Arms Country Club, Card Section
- 1pm Redwood Tavern, Cleghorn Street. Meet and play EUCHRE. Beginners are welcome to learn and play. $7 Ph Christine 0272077631.
Pencil Pals
- meets at Connect, corner of High Street and Beaver Road every Tuesday 1.00 to 3.00pm. Come and join Sydney and Issie to practice your drawing skills and enjoy the company of like-minded people. Sydney 0211568398; Issie 0204668008.
Wednesday
Digital Drop-in
– Every Wednesday 10am-12pm Marlborough Library. Bring your device and staff will be happy to help you with questions you may have about using your smartphone or other device.
Blenheim Probus
– First Wednesday of the month, 10am Lansdowne Hub. For retired or semi retirees looking for fun, friendship and fellowship. Ph Anne 5787046, 0226353919. Indoor Bowls
– Every Wednesday 7pm at The Foundry, John Street, until mid September. Equipment and instruction provided. 0223804730 for more information.
3 months
Target Rifle Shooting - Athletic Park Range. Riverside Club 7pm, cost $10, contact 021667746. Genealogy Drop–in
– with the Blenheim Family History Group. Marlborough Library, Wednesday afternoons 1pm-3pm. No appointments needed. Cancer Society Marlborough: Live Stronger - Women’s exercise, peer support and wellbeing for women living with cancer. Wednesdays 6pm - 6:45 pm. Well & Good, 1 Grove Road. Blenheim. Cost $5 members, $10 casual.
Cancer Society Marlborough Stretch & Breathe - Gentle strength/balance class for seniors. 10-11am, $3.00. St Christopher’s Church Hall, 92 Weld St, Ph 0273852333 donna@stchristophers. co.nz. Lions’ Club of Blenheim
- Like to know more about the Lion’s Club? Meet on the1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month. For more details Contact Delphine Lee 029 942 5004.
Picton Mahjong - Marina Cove Club Room, 53 Waikawa Road, Picton at 1pm. Phone Adrianne 02102591639 or Kaye 0211312331 for more information. Whitehead Park Bowling Club, Redwoodtown - 9.30am to 12noon. Mixed roll – ups, all welcome, contact Bob 577 9436. Summer timetable starts October.
Blenheim Rock N Roll Club Nights - 7.30-9.30pm: Top of the South Rock n Roll Club, club nights at the Blenheim Bowling Club, bring comfy shoes and water. Great music, have fun and exercise at the same time. Phone Erin 0272341709.
Picton Scottish Country Dance Group7.30pm at Picton Little Theatre. Beginners welcome. First night free. No partner needed just a pair of soft soled shoes. Phone Lynda on 0212600860 for further information.
Marlborough Vintage Car Club -1:30-3:30pm, Brayshaw Park, Arthur Baker Pl, Blenheim. Other times by arrangement. Ph Bill 0275784322. Donation appreciated. New Members welcome
Cancer Society Marlborough-Art For Wellbeing - FREE therapeutic art sessions all experience levels welcome, all materials provided – taster sessions and term classes run throughout 2025. For all enquires or to book contact Dallace –Registered Social Worker/Supportive Care Ph 03 5794379
Marlborough Thermette Society Winter boil ups - Simonsen Reserve down Malthouse Lane off SH 1, Riverlands from 2.00 on Sunday July 27 and August 31. Bring food to share, a camp chair and a thermette if you have one. Kids and dogs welcome. Bill 0277108229 Marlborough Community Signers – All welcome whether completely new or an old hand. No audition. New term begins Wednesday July 16th at REAP, 6.30pm-8.30pm. $9 casual. Ph Amanda 022 642 4805 Crop Swap - Saturday 19th July, 2:00-4:00pm swapping 2:30pm sharp, Crossroads @ 2 Redwood Street. $2 koha to our hosts - Sharing abundance from our kitchen and gardens: fruit, vegetables, preserves, relishes, jams, herbs, recipes, eggs, flowers, seeds, seedlings, baking; - Giving generously and mindfully taking. Further details, 021 081 98520
5 years, Omaka
