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By Paula Hulburt
An annual display of special cars has driven up donations to the Marlborough Cancer Society to an impressive high.
Marlborough Vintage Car Club members raised $11,000 for the local cancer charity following the success of their Daffodil Day display at Brayshaw Park.
Club chairman Rob Galloway presented the cheque to society general manager Philippa Hatton and supportive care co-ordinator Dallace Lilley in front of delighted members last Wednesday.
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Speaking to about 60 members who gathered at the clubrooms, Hatton said she was honoured by their generosity.
“I’m quite overwhelmed with the support and it makes me quite emotional.
“A huge thank you, huge gratitude to all members whose support has honestly blown me away.
“Seeing all the cars come in [on the day] was a highlight of the year. I don’t know much about cars but I liked the colours and the noise they made.
“Maybe next year someone can take me for a ride in one of them.”
The national Vintage Car Club of New Zealand raised $110,000 for the cause.
Galloway said the amount raised in Marlborough exceeded the $10,000 average collected during the last seven to eight years.
Addressing members, he congratulated everyone who had helped make the event
a success.
“Thank you everyone for the effort, and thank you to the public that support us too.”
All money raised will be used in Marlborough to support people diagnosed with cancer and their families.
Thanks to the following sponsors for their generous contribution towards the fundraising for the Marlborough Cancer Society
• Marlborough Lines
• O’Donnell Park Barging Ltd
• Ayson Survey
• Eckford Engineering
• Geoff and Mary Buick
• HR Engineering
• McKendry Mazda
• Auto and Marine Electric
• Johnsons Barge Services
• McKendry Ford
• Wadsco Trucks
• Meaters of Marlborough
• McKendrick Event Hire Ltd
• Marlborough Guild of Woodworkers
• Troon Civil
• Marlborough Vintage & Farm Machinery Society
• Ray White Real Estate
• JJs Customs and Restos
By Kira Carrington
Nadine Taylor has won a second term as Marlborough mayor.
Based on progressive results released on Saturday afternoon, Taylor had 11,829 votes, a landslide win over mayoral candidates Shaun Brown, with
735 votes, and Aniva Fruean, with 380 votes.
Taylor said she was “very pleased and very grateful, to be elected back”.
“It’s nice to have that vote of confidence from the province to carry on the work.”
She was speaking from her mother’s retirement village, and
said she always spent election day with her mother.
Taylor said she was looking forward to bringing together a new team of councillors.
“We’ve had a good three years, and I’m really looking forward to bringing the team together to deliver another good three years.
“A refresh of the team, it is
always a good thing. It brings a new perspective, makes us look at what we’ve done previously, and [consider] how we can do better as we move forward.”
The final vote count will be released on Thursday.
LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
Four new members will join the returning Marlborough district councillors.
All four incumbent Blenheim councillors have been re-elected: David Croad, Brian Dawson, Deborah Dalliessi and Thelma Sowman.
Newcomer Cyril Dawson also looks to have been elected, after three failed bids for a seat at the table. He had the second-highest amount of votes in the Blenheim Ward in the progressive count with 946 votes, behind Croad on 1746 votes. ACT candidate John Hyndman also looked to have been elected with 900 votes.
Benjamin Stace narrowly defeated fellow Blenheim Ward candidate Tamsin Cooper by 29 votes. The final results are set to be released on Thursday.
Barbara Faulls, Raylene Innes and Malcolm Taylor were the successful candidates in the Marlborough Sounds Ward.
Faulls was in a league of her own, receiving 1097 votes, more than 400 ahead of fellow incumbent Innes, who got 676 votes. Taylor wasn’t far behind with 653 votes, more than 200 votes ahead of the next candidate.
Allanah Burgess was elected to the Māori Ward seat unopposed, and incumbent Wairau-Awatere Ward candidates Sally Arbuckle, Scott Adams and Gerald Hope were re-elected unopposed.
LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air
The Commerce Commission has formally warned several bricklayers in Blenheim after an investigation into suspected cartel conduct.
G J Marfell Ltd, Mike Vis Bricklaying Ltd, and bricklayers Benjamin Robertson and Andrew Dwyer may have breached Section 30 of the Commerce Act, which prohibits cartel conduct.
The Commission’s investigation uncovered a pattern of “courtesy calls”, including text message exchanges where the bricklayers discussed quotes for projects.
Commerce Commission chairperson Dr John Small told 1News discussions, particularly when specific pricing was disclosed, could lead to cover pricing, which was a form of bid-rigging.
He said the warnings were appropriate as the conduct was serious, even though the possible harm and financial detriment was limited.
The formal warnings would serve as a “significant sanction” for the small businesses involved, he said.
“While these are warnings, we want to highlight this case as it serves as an important reminder to all tradespeople that they must understand and comply with their
obligations under the law,” Small told 1News.
The commission said the conduct, which occurred between 2020 and 2021, impacted several building projects in the Blenheim area.
The investigation was launched following a tip-off received via the commission’s anonymous reporting tool.
The commission said one of the bricklayers was approached by a customer that usually dealt with another bricklayer. They discussed pricing and then submitted an “anti-competitive higher quote” so the other could retain the customer.
The purpose of the price-fixing was to ensure a particular bricklayer would be awarded the work.
Small said the bricklayers’ actions could have deceived customers who sought several competitive quotes “in good faith”.
“It is crucial that sole traders and businesses take steps to ensure their commercial dealings with competitors are lawful.”
The commission believed they also frustrated - or tried to frustrate - the investigation by failing to supply compulsorily requested information.
By Tracy Neal, Open Justice reporter
A young woman lured by the promise of a modelling career overseas ended up being sexually assaulted by a man posing as a talent agent.
Delfin Cruz, who was second in charge of bottling at a Marlborough winery, spotted the Filipino woman in an Auckland shop where she worked.
He convinced her if she was to fly to Singapore to begin a modelling career she would have to “pass a test” that involved getting drunk to see how well she could handle alcohol.
Cruz appeared in the Nelson District Court, where Judge Tania Warburton sentenced him to 12 months’ home detention at his address in Blenheim on two charges of indecent assault. He was also ordered to make a $750 emotional harm payment to the victim.
The semi-professional poker player claimed a conviction would harm his chances of overseas travel or might inhibit his plans
to move to Australia.
But Warburton was swift to deny his application and said there was no evidence to back Cruz’s claims. She said an earlier conviction on a dishonesty charge had so far not stopped him travelling.
She also said he had shown little remorse for his offending against the 20-year-old, which involved deliberately deceiving her.
His claim that what happened was a “mutual understanding” rather than an indecent assault showed an attempt to minimise what occurred, Warburton said.
In late September 2023, the victim was working in an Auckland shop that Cruz, 44, visited while on holiday with his family.
Cruz spoke with her and claimed to be a modelling talent agent.
The woman gave Cruz her phone number and the pair exchanged messages over the next few weeks about job opportunities in international modelling.
In late October, the woman, her mother and a friend then met Cruz for dinner in Auckland, where he told the woman if she “passed a test” which involved getting
drunk, she would fly with him to Singapore to start her modelling career.
The victim was provided alcohol. Her mother and friend left and Cruz and the victim went back to a luxury hotel.
She was then given vodka but vomited on her clothing, which Cruz removed and began indecently touching her.
Warburton said the degree of violation placed the charges at the high end.
“She thought you were her agent and that you would look
after her,” Warburton said. She said the woman’s victim impact statement revealed the level of trauma she had suffered, which had affected her studies and relationships with family and friends.
The Crown opposed his application for a discharge without conviction, saying the victim was vulnerable and naive, there was a large age gap between her and Cruz, and she had been “tricked” into going with him to the hotel where he plied her with alcohol.
For Elaine, the realisation crept up slowly. First came the hesitation before lifting her youngest grandchild. Then the excuses when they ran to her with arms outstretched.
“I couldn’t pick the little ones up anymore,” the active grandmother admits, her voice catching at the memory. “I was unsure – am I going to drop them, or am I going to have to let go?”
The discomfort in her elbow had quietly stolen one of her greatest joys – those spontaneous cuddles and carries that grandparents treasure. Every morning brought familiar stiffness and another day of careful movements and missed moments.
That changed one evening when Elaine decided to try Koru FX, a natural New Zealand-made cream she’d heard about at her local pharmacy.
“I applied it to my elbow that was really bothering me that night,” she recalls. What happened next caught her completely off guard. “In the morning, I got up and actually didn’t have to worry about it. I thought, oh wow, this is what I’ve been looking for.”
The transformation Elaine describes is almost poetic in its simplicity. “You know how you feel between seasons, winter and summer, when the sun finally arrives? That’s how I’m feeling
A Blenheim man has been jailed for preying on young girls and covertly filming them.
William Rayner messaged nearly a dozen girls on Snapchat from 2021 to 2024, asking them to perform sex acts that he would secretly record.
He had admitted making an intimate visual recording, indecent communication with a person aged under 16, 14 counts of possessing objectionable publications, and nine counts of making objectionable publications. Some of the objectionable publication charges were representative, meaning they covered multiple instances of offending.
The 31-year-old was sentenced by Judge Michael Mika at the district court in Blenheim last week to four years and 11 months in prison. He will be added to the child sex offender register.
Rayner, who was heavily involved in local sports and children’s theatre, was arrested in November 2024.
He covertly filmed a woman in the shower through an open window and also filmed a girl aged under 16, including up her clothing.
Police found a large amount of child sex exploitation material on two of his cellphones, some categorised as the most serious type.
Crown prosecutor Abigail Goodison said some of the Rayner’s vicitms were particularly young and he had caused them massive harm.
For months, she explains, the discomfort had been constant.
“You’re always thinking about it, instinctively bracing yourself in the morning because you expect it to be there.”
But that first morning after using the cream brought an unfamiliar sensation – freedom. “I got up and didn’t have to think twice. I just moved naturally.”
Now, Elaine’s mornings start differently. Instead of hesitating, she reaches for her grandchildren without concern. The natural cream, containing ingredients like arnica, mānuka, and black pepper oils, has become part of her daily routine.
“Just last night, she came running in and jumped up,” Elaine shares, smiling at the memory. “I just grabbed her and picked her up. No second thought. Those moments – you can’t get them back once they’re gone.”
The relief isn’t just physical for Elaine. “It’s mentally liberating too. When you stop worrying about your body letting you down, you can just be present.”
She’s particularly pleased the product is natural and locally made. “I prefer natural products, especially being around the kids all the time. Finding something that works AND aligns with my values – that’s special.”
Elaine is among thousands of
New Zealanders who’ve discovered Koru FX, seeking natural support for tired joints and muscles. The Christchurch-based company has built a following among Kiwis looking for locally-made alternatives.
For Elaine, the change has been profound yet simple. “When my granddaughter runs at me now, I don’t hesitate. I just open my arms. It feels like spring after a long winter.”
Her advice to others missing out on life’s moments? “Don’t accept limitations as permanent. I spent months avoiding cuddles, thinking that was just how things were now. But sometimes the right support can bring your spring back.”
An interactive filmmakers’ workshop and bus tour around several key spots throughout Marlborough promises to show what the region has to offer the film industry.
The workshop and bus tour are part of the Top of the South Film
Festival, which runs in Blenheim on Sunday and Nelson on Friday and Saturday.
Festival director Peata Panoho said the event is geared towards anyone with an interest in the behind-the-scenes of filmmaking,
filmmakers, or anyone looking for something fun to do.
Panoho said professional locations manager and scout Dylan Poihipi, would also be in Blenheim.
Poihipi has worked on a range of productions and shows like
Power Rangers and Great Southern Television.
The festival is a platform for local filmmakers to showcase their talent and share their stories with the community.
Held annually in Blenheim and
Nelson, the festival brings together local filmmakers, cinephiles, and audiences or a celebration of the art of cinema.
At it the heart of the festival are short films crafted in the Nelson Tasman Marlborough regions.
Garden Marlborough celebrates the best of spring with a vibrant festival of gardening, creativity, and the region’s stunning landscape.
At the heart of the festival are guided garden tours, offering exclusive access to inspiring private gardens, from coastal estates and lush countryside to hidden urban
gems. With full-day and half-day options, these tours showcase the beauty, passion, and dedication that define Marlborough’s gardening culture.
This year’s keynote speaker is international garden star Jamie Durie, award-winning designer and TV host, who will share bold
ideas, expert insights, and entertaining stories.
Experience the wow factor of New Zealand gardening with Jill Simpson as she shares insights from her spectacular 25-yearold Fishermans Bay garden near Akaroa.
Learn from Kiwi gardening
expert Kath Irvine in two sessions on soil health and fruit tree pruning, and gain practical tips and confidence to grow productive, healthy gardens of any size.
And don’t miss The STIHL Shop Garden Fete, Marlborough’s largest free community event, packed with plants, artisan stalls, delicious
food, and live entertainment on Sunday 9 November at Churchill Glade.
Plus, discover even more across the festival with a wide range of workshops, talks, and events for every gardening enthusiast. Book tickets now at gardenmarlborough.co.nz
The Healthy Bastards Club has benefitted from Rowan McKay-Simpson's performance at Blenheim’s Stars in Your Eyes.
The Blenheim singer nominated the club, a mental health support foundation led by Dr Dave Baldwin, to receive the $1000 he raised for his chosen charity.
Part musical competition and talent show, the event for charity saw people get on stage and impersonate their favourite musical artists.
Rowan, 18, was competing for the second time and chose to portray Canadian country and folk singer Colter Wall.
‘‘You are all aiming to win but it’s more about the fun aspect really. It’s for a good cause.’’
Baldwin, a pilot and health practitioner who runs the Healthy Bastards Club, ‘‘flies around giving people health check-ups and is quite outspoken about mentall health’’, McKay-Simpson said.
The club aims to pass on ‘‘good health messages wrapped in humour in the style of beloved comic author Barry Crump’’.
Baldwin works as a rural GP and
operates the aviation medical practice, Bulls Flying Doctor Services.
In true Kiwi fashion, McKay-Simpson remains humble in victory, saying that aside from having a fun time, the real purpose for the event is raising money for different charities.
All musical genres are welcome and groups of friends can take part, too.
‘‘My performance was country but a few others weren’t,’’ he says.
‘‘It varied overall, the whole thing was just a good vibe.’’
Second place was a tie between a group impersonating ABBA and another that did ZZ Top.
McKay-Simpson's favourite aspect of the performance was the crowd.
‘‘Having a good audience was pretty cool, really interactive.
‘‘During breaks in the song they’ll be cheering so it wasn’t dead-silent the whole time.’’
He has one piece of advice for anyone with similar aspirations.
‘‘Just get out there and do it. Try and have fun, it’s not so much a competition, it’s more about fun.’’
Michelle Douké
I feel we cuddle our children far beyond adulthood, as they turn 18, they are now adults, they should be working and supporting themselves and not be quick for handouts.
Donna Devine
At 18 you have to pay adults rates everywhere, you can vote, dental care is no longer free and doctors cost same as an “adult. Therefore an 18 year is no longer a “youth” and should be entitled to a benefit whilst seeking work regardless of what their parents earn.
Joshua Douglas
85k be fairer but then that would it capture enough people as the higher earning family kids have jobs.
Pelorus Community Preschool (Kōhungahunga o Te Hoiere) tucked away in the heart of Havelock hosted an unforgettable Comedy Night and Auction on Saturday, 4th October 2025 — and what a night it was!
The event was a vibrant celebration of community, connection, and aroha, bringing together whānau, friends, and supporters for an evening filled with laughter and generosity.
Guests were wowed by the incredible Brendan Dooley, whose comedy and illusion show had the audience in stitches and amazement from start to finish. His high energy performance captured the joyful, uplifting spirit that defines our preschool community.
The night wouldn’t have been complete without the fantastic support of Will Porter and Bailey Dewe from Bayleys, who stepped up as our auctioneer team. Their humour, energy, and skill kept the bidding fast, fun, and full of laughter helping raise vital funds for our
preschool.
Board Chairperson Bonnie Jones shares her gratitude:
“This event truly showed the heart of our community. From those who donated prizes, helped in the kitchen, and set up the hall, to everyone who came along for a night of laughter. We are so grateful. It’s incredible to see what we can achieve together for our children and their families.”
With so many generous sponsors and helpers behind the scenes, it’s impossible to thank everyone individually here but please know that every contribution, big or small, made a difference.
The success of the evening reflects everything Pelorus Community Preschool stands for — whanaungatanga (connection), manaakitanga (care), and kotahitanga (unity). The night itself raised a profit of $23196.61.
From all of us at Pelorus Community Preschool — thank you for helping make this magical night one to remember!
A new improved footbridge has been installed between the Redwood Street car park and Sutherland Stream walkway at the base of Mount Vernon in the Wither Hills Farm Park.
The upgrade was sparked following the June and July heavy rains, which
caused damage to an abutment of the old bridge. The new bridge is longer, allowing greater stream capacity for future severe weather.
Local company CMT built the bridge off site and craned it into place on to a new concrete abutment.
It’s magpie nesting time and reports of birds dive bombing walkers and cyclists in Marlborough have prompted a timely reminder.
Council’s Multi Modal Transport Advisor Charlotte Campbell-Lamerton said during the nesting season magpies become highly protective of their young. “We’re receiving reports of swooping birds so it’s a good time to consider best practice during magpie swooping season,” she said.
Here are some tips to help keep you safe: Pay attention to nesting areas
If you see magpie nesting activity in trees, consider avoiding the area and plotting a new walking or cycling route.
Stay calm
If you find yourself in magpie territory and it’s too late to back out, stay calm. Walk
quickly through the area but do not run. Ask children to stay calm too.
Be on the lookout and make eye contact
If you maintain eye contact with a magpie for as long as possible, it will be less likely to swoop. Keep your arms up if you are worried. Magpies often swoop from behind but are much less likely to swoop if they are being watched directly.
Get off your bike
If you are on a bike, dismount. Bikes irritate magpies and getting swooped on while riding can cause accidents. Your helmet will protect you. Walk the bike quickly out of the magpie’s territory.
Be understanding and considerate Magpies are highly intelligent and are just trying to protect their young. You only need to be patient for a few weeks during the nesting season.
Work on Spring Creek’s stop bank is well underway with the engineering design completed, and preliminary ground works underway.
At a meeting at Spring Creek Hall, locals were briefed on progress by Council’s Rivers and Drainage Engineering Manager Andy White, Beca’s Technical Director of Civil Engineering Kate Purton and Taylors Contracting Manager Robbie Swarbrick.
Mr White told the meeting that the project was on track for completion in June 2027, however its complexity and cost had increased following detailed design work and the June 2025 flood event which caused further riverbed scour.
Additional funding was expected to be announced in coming weeks from central government, a strong supporter of the project through its ongoing coinvestment in critical flood infrastructure, Mr White said.
“We’re on track - we always said we would start the main works in 2025,” he said.
Work revolved around the summer season, typically from November to April and starts next month with construction of the haul road, realignment of Peninsula Road and relocation of associated services.
River rock placement would
start in January 2026 with as much work as possible done during summer, finishing in April when autumn rains began and river levels rose, Mr White said.
Work would begin again in October 2026 when the existing stop bank would start to be replaced, starting from the Spring Creek end, and work would be finished by June 2027.
“It’s just not feasible to do the work in one year,” Mr White said. “The scale of the project is significantly larger due in large part to the extent of cracking through the bank and the depth of river bed scour.
Nearly 100,000 tonnes of rock and 160,000m3 of fill will be placed over the two summers season, all coming from Council’s upgraded Pukaka Quarry. This is the biggest project our team has delivered in 30 years.”
Kate Purton from Beca talked about the design scope of the work which involved raising the finished stop bank height one and a half metres higher in order to meet future climate scenarios.
Peninsula Road would be permanently moved off the top of the stop bank to further increase its resilience.
More information on the project will be available on Council’s website.
The annual Kaikoura Trotting Cup meeting is just three weekends away. Reporter Shelley Topp gives a taste of what lies ahead.
‘‘Four’’ will be the magic number for drivers taking part in the upcoming Seddon Trotting Country Cup series.
The series will start on Kaikoura Cup day - Monday, November 3and culminate in a $30,000 final at Addington on March 20 next year.
There will be 10 ‘‘heats’’ in all at Kaikoura, Westport, Reefton, Nelson, and Blenheim.
The series aims to boost the profile of trotters and increase the turnover at the respective meetings.
To qualify for the final, a horse must start at least four times on the Seddon circuit and at least one of those starts must be in a designated series race.
The final field will be made up of the highest point-earners over the circuit, with preference given to horses which started a series race.
Apart from Kaikoura, where it will be the South Bay Trotters Cup, the designated race will be the highest rated trot on the day (R51-70).
The designated qualifying races and final are
Heats
November 3: Kaikoura - $20,000
December 26: Westport - $15,000
December 28: Westport$20,000
December 30: Reefton - $20,000
January 9: Nelson - $15,000
January 11: Nelson - $20,000
January 16: Marlborough$15,000
January 18: Marlborough$20,000
March 6: Westport - $17,500
March 8: Reefton - $17,500
Final
March 20: Addington - $30,000
Points for the series will be:
▪ 10 points for 1st
▪ 6 points for 2nd
▪ 3 points for 3rd
▪ 2 points for 4th
▪ 1 point for every other starter - Harness Racing NZ
By Shelley Topp
An offer to help the Kaikoura Trotting Club committee has landed David James with a big job during a special year in the club’s history.
James, a retired beef cattle farmer from Owen River, Murchison, is now on the committee and has also taken over as the club’s track manager.
He will be there for the 100th running of the Kaikoura Cup, which will have a $100,000 stake to recognise the historic occasion.
The new role has been a steep learning curve for James, but one he is enjoying immensely.
At the top of his agenda was a track managers’ conference for three days at Addington Raceway and Riccarton Park Racecourse in Christchurch where he learned about tracks and race meetings.
‘‘There is a huge amount to
A scene-stealing contestant in the free-for-all fashion competition at the Kaikoura Trotting Cup last November. PHOTO: EMILY MORGAN, FOR HARNESS RACING NEW ZEALAND
learn but in Kaikoura we are very fortunate to be able to contact John Denton, the track and venue inspector for Harness Racing New Zealand for any advice and he is always ready to help,” James said.
‘‘This time of the year there is a lot of work in trying to get everything looking really sharp, because we all want the track looking the best it can possibly be for the club’s annual meeting in November.
‘‘We have a great bunch of people on the track committee and it is a real pleasure helping them.’’
Willy Ford, who has spent ‘‘many, many hours’’ working at the racecourse, and the club’s president Ben Smith have both been very helpful too, James said.
The club will also host the opening ceremony for the 2025 World Driving Championship and the first five heats of the two-day
meeting on Sunday, November 2, and Monday November 3, which is Marlborough Anniversary Day. Champion drivers from 10 countries will compete at the meeting, including New Zealander Blair Orange, on the unique all-weather Kaikoura track.
‘‘The two-day meeting in November is something that a lot of people have on their bucket list,’’ James said.
‘‘It really is a great two days out and people come from all over New Zealand and Australia to attend. This year it is shaping to be an extra special event.’’
By Shelley Topp
A unisex fashion free-for-all at the Kaikoura Trotting Club always attracts a colourful collection of punters.
The ‘most appropriate race day attire’ competition was no exception last year with one contestant standing out among the rest in a Union Jack suit with an equally eye-catching fashion accessory - a penny-farthing bicycle.
His show-stopping outfit failed to sway the judges but he did finish in the top three and had a lot of fun on cup day.
Club vice president Julie Howden, said the fashion contest has previously attracted about 40
entries, mainly women, but six to eight men also took part last year. She hopes the event on November 3 will also prove popular as it adds ``a good atmosphere and a little extra fun’’ to an already exciting day.
‘‘Everyone is welcome to enter the competition and we wish everyone could win,’’ Howden said.
Ten finalists will be selected before the final four are chosen and announced in the birdcage between races. The winner will take home $500 cash from Rockgas Kaikoura and the placegetters will get vouchers from Abbey Road Clothing and Surf Shop, Addy & Lou Gift Shop and Donegal House Restaurant, Bar and Accommodation.
It will also be a big day on the race track with two heats of the World Driving Championship being held and three feature races - the $100,000 Kaikoura Trotting Cup, for pacers, the $60,000 South Bay Trotters Cup, and the $50,000 New Zealand Bloodstock Standardbred Sires’ Stakes Aged Classic, also for pacers.
The two-day weekend of racing meeting at the picturesque South Bay Racecourse is a highlight on New Zealand’s harness racing calendar, attracting big crowds from here and overseas for the exciting racing it provides. It will also a big family-friendly day out event with lots of activities planned for children to enjoy as well.
The top of the South Island is a critical habitat for many species of cetaceansfrom the largest blue whales to the smallest Hector’s dolphins.
Professor Rochelle Constantine from Auckland University will talk about whale and dolphin ecology and conservation biology at the Lansdowne Hub, Lansdowne Park, on Wednesday, November 5, at 6.30pm.
She will present findings from long-term research programmes, with a focus on recent Hector’s dolphin research. She will also talk about the challenges facing ceta-
ceans in a rapidly changing ocean and the importance of pragmatic approaches that place the animals and their environment at the centre of the conversation.
This talk is part of a new council series covering marine issues and conservation called Whakawhiti kōrero mō te moana - Coastal Conversations.
The talk is free to the public. Then catch Coastal Conversation on November 27 at Lansdowne Park with Dr Al Alder from the Cawthron Institute. He will speak about restoration of the marine environment.
Reviewed by Tony Orman
Sub-titled “A life growing and eating our own food”, this is an excellent, practical book about producing and utilising farm produce whether a small or a fully economic farm.
More so it is applicable to anyone in country or even in town.
After all, you have to eat no matter where you live!
“The Food Farm” is basically a seasonal diary about growing your own food, such as fruit, vegetables, nuts, eggs, grains, dairy, honey, meat and wild food.
It’s chocker with ideas about sowing, harvesting, foraging, cooking and preserving.
Angela Clifford leads ‘Eat NZ” movement
which aims to reconnect people with the land and ocean via food.
Nick Gill grew up on a South Australian family farm before embarking on a 30 year career in the wine industry across Australia. The couple have 16 acres in North Canterbury, near Amberley.
Colourfully produced by Bateman Books, it is highly recommended.
Enjoy some treats but remember to eat wisely.
Healthy options will enhance your body, mood and general wellbeing.
Fruit and vegetables can help to ensure good skin also. Provide energy and much needed nutrients.
Limit drinks and food with added sugar.
Refrain from eating lots of processed foods that raise blood sugar levels.
We all need plenty of fibre in our diet such as fruit and vegetables along with nuts, legumes whole grain breads and cereals. These suggestions make us feel fuller for longer with fewer calories.
If half your meal is fruit and/ or vegetables you’ll succeed in keeping your weight under control. So choose wisely!
We’ll all be affected by stress at some time in our lives. And it’s not good. For a healthy state of mind :
• Scale back your to-do list
• Eat healthy
• Keep active
• Get enough sleep
• See people and do things you enjoy
As summer approaches remember to protect yourself and your babies/children from the sun.
As lovely as it is to bask in its rays it can also be harmful.
Not only can it cause skin cancer but also wrinkles, age spots and other skin problems.
Remember to use sunscreen (at least SPF30) every 2-3 hours especially when swimming.
Seek shade between 10am-4pm if possible when UVRays are at their strongest.
Cover with clothing of going to out working, dark is better for protection.
mushroom (3,3)
15. Top class (5-4)
17. Unfinished business (5,4)
18. Daring (9) 19. Skull (7) 21. Money holder (6)
23. Employees’ organisation (5) 24. Ascend (5)
26. Homo sapien (5)
Across: 1. Bargaining chip, 10. Extra, 11. Premature, 12. Curator, 13. Twaddle, 14. Proof, 16. Ill at ease, 19. Contralto, 20. Endow, 22. Aquatic, 25. Ethical, 27. Imitation, 28. Moose, 29. Monkey business. Down: 2. Afternoon, 3. Graft, 4. Impartial, 5. Inept, 6. Guarantee, 7. Hound, 8. Precede, 9. Red cap, 15. First-rate, 17. Loose ends, 18. Audacious, 19. Cranium, 21. Wallet, 23. Union, 24. Climb, 26. Human. Hot, how, hoy, rho, rot, row, throw, thy, tor, tow, toy, trow, troy, try, two, tyro, who, why, wort, worth, WORTHY, wot, wroth, wry.
WordBuilder
Some years ago I wrote about the advantages of using aspirin sprays and drenches on plants we grow.
The article was well received at the time and a number of gardeners started using this interesting gardening practice.
A conversation I had with a gardener over the phone this week brought back the memory of the aspirin information from over 20 years ago.
Basically the reason why aspirin will help with gardening problems is primarily due to its active ingredient, acetylsalicylic acid, which is derived from natural plant hormones and can trigger beneficial responses in plants.
Aspirin was derived from a substance found in the bark and leaves of the willow tree.
The active ingredient, salicin, was used for centuries to relieve pain and reduce fever, with its properties later leading to the modern synthesis of acetylsalicylic acid, or aspirin.
Enhanced plant immunity: Aspirin helps plants activate their defense mechanisms earlier, making them more resistant to diseases and pests.
So what are the advantages of aspirin?
Improved seed germination: Soaking seeds or watering them with diluted aspirin solutions can increase the germination rate, resulting in stronger seedlings also add a little Magic Botanic Liquid (MBL) as well..
Increased growth and yield: Aspirin-treated plants tend to be larger, have better fruit and flower production, and show improved overall health and vigor.
Better stress tolerance: When applied either through soil drenching or foliar sprays, aspirin can help plants withstand environmental stresses such as drought and heat.
Longer-lasting cut flowers: Aspirin inhibits hormones that cause rapid death in cut flowers, prolonging their freshness so popping a bit of an aspirin into your vase water is an old tip also used on freshly cut pine trees as Christmas Trees..
To make an aspirin spray for garden plants, dissolve one regular, uncoated aspirin tablet (300 mg) in 4 liters of water, mix thoroughly, and use a spray bottle to apply it to the leaves every two weeks.
In NZ only one type I see has 300mg most have 100mg so need to use 3 tabs.
It’s good practice to add 40 mils of MBL and 4mils of Wallys Raingard to help the solution stick to plant leaves, for overall best results.
In a trigger sprayer kept out of light when not in use the mix will last nicely between uses till used up and then make a fresh batch.
As a soil drench it is two 300 mg into 4 litres
7-18
of water with 80mils of MBL added. (Do not add Raingard) water into the root zones of plants nonce a month that you want to improve or on perennial plants and trees twice a year, spring and autumn.
The best timing to apply aspirin spray on tomato plants is every 10 to 14 days, starting when plants are healthy and established (about 18 to 24 inches tall, or a few weeks after transplanting).
Begin applications before common diseases and pests tend to appear in your garden, which is typically early summer, and continue throughout the growing season, stopping just before harvest or when disease risk drops.
Apply the first aspirin spray two weeks after planting or when plants reach approximately 18–24 inches in height.
For your tomato plants using the above spray products (Aspirin, MBL and Raingard)
Spraying is best done in the early morning or evening to avoid leaf burn and maximize absorption.
Four sprays at 10-day intervals, starting two weeks after planting, is supported by research for optimal disease prevention.
Continue with regular feeding of Wallys Secret Tomato food with Neem Granules and care alongside aspirin spray routines.
This schedule helps prime the plant’s defenses before threats arrive, leading to stronger, more resilient tomato plants throughout the season. If you want to increase the sweetness of the fruit occasionally add some Wallys Mycorrcin to the spray.
Now here is the clincher from my conversation with the gardener that brought up the subject of aspirin.
He told me that last season a friend grew two plots of garlic one of which he sprayed the foliage every 2 weeks starting after he has a good show of foliage using the combination sprays above. (Aspirin, MBL and Raingard)
The other plot he used as a control and did not use the combined aspirin spray on their foliage.
Results were, unsprayed got the dreaded garlic rust and the treated crop did not.
Thus if you are growing garlic this season best you use the aforementioned products and start a spray program now before rust strikes later.
(Adding mycorcin to the spray will help create larger bulbs)
I would also suggest the you also spray the foliage of stone fruit with same to help with curly leaf disease and add to the spray Wallys Copper Nutrient which also helps.
If all that does not help then for yourself; take two aspirin and put your feet up and have your favorite drink on hand.
5-21
Saturday 8-20 Sunday 10-18
6-20
Good ads, worst ads, - it doesn’t matter. You noticed them, therefore they are successful! I hate the Harvey Norman ads - but by gee, I sure am aware of the business.
100 kph Pak n Sav to the Airport. 80kph Airport to turnoff at SH 63. 80 kph most of Old Renwick Rd.
Am I missing something here?
Re “As usual we are a collective, we want to take everybody with us” spoken by the Mayor. Where are you taking us when consultation is a formality after the fact of decisions made. Are we going to have a dedicated place where we can see what this new water body is up too and how much they get paid and charge us?
There goes the reason for the homeless problem. I feel like a tracker of council behaviour not a collective with it.
You have double speak.
Poor Charlie Kirk getting blamed for a lot of the perceived ills in the world now he has been killed.
Even some deluded Marlborough person is deleting their phone data prior to a states trip and blaming Charlie. If you have expressed that amount of vitriol and hatred on social media to a person who stood for free speech you probably should stay at home.
Reflecting that not all countries have elections. It has always been easier to have unelecteds in positions of responsibility.
Kudos to those who made a real effort to have their voices heard by voting.
Happy to have Uber in town but also will support Marl Taxis as they have given good service to date. Thank you.
Great to see Cyril finally getting across the line and becoming an elected councilor. Perseverance pays off.
For those who need help with transport to the recycle centre I’m sure there are people who care about this issue in the community who would be willing to help. Just keep a box in your garage for a month and save the tops and lids there. We all need to play our part for the future generations.
I HATE Day light saving big time.
Whitebaiting season people baiting on the other side and campers let the sewage go out. It taints the whitebait. They could at least let it out at night when no one is baiting. I’m not the only one to complain about it. They must know it’s baiting season. It can’t be eaten if it’s been tainted by sewage .
I just read in the Marlborough weekend paper a man taking pictures, videos of people including children in the stadium gets name suppression. Where is the privacy for his victims? There should not be name suppression given to people who commit crime. Do the crime, do the time.
Given up on getting a lot of NZ news on the Stuff site. All the more interesting articles now only give a teaser intro then want you to sign in for the rest. Really?
Uber finally here at the end of the month. Great to have true choice and much needed competition in Blenheim.
The person who wrote in about being biased probably believes in democracy, but to achieve that you must listen to all opinions. If you got the editor to only print what they considered was right you might as well not have the text talk page at all.
Had to laugh at the Manu Ora article saying in a quiet street in Blenheim.
It used to be now we have cars parked all over the place making the roads around their surgery one way. The staff are the worst sometimes we have trouble getting in our driveways.
We may have to sell.
I hope the crowd at the showgrounds that had the loudspeakers at an extremely high level until ten thirty on Friday night are never given permission to use the facilities again. At three streets away, the noise was unbearable. Thudding music?
And yelling voices, would be interesting to know how far away that well over the sound limit was heard.
I forget every Spring what the Marlborough weather is like.
Just when I think the sun is warming up and the weather is turning, the wind picks up and hangs around until December/January. Bring on summer.
Good to see a Kiwi win Bathurst again this year. Real skill plus in awful conditions. I thought Aussie had better weather than us?
Wow, I loved Stars in Your Eyes. What amazing talent we have within Marlborough. Congratulations to all the performers.
Manu Ora
Thanks team at Manu Ora. Care with compassion when I have visited. Perhaps others need to know of their services also so they are not forgotten.
Thanks to Pediatrics nurses
I would like to give Jo and Kate a special thank you. They cared for my son during his recent admission and surgery. Both of them are absolute stars. Wairau Hospital is lucky to have them.
We welcome your texts on 027 242 5266.
Limit to 70 words please. We reserve the right to publish at our discretion. Please note the opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Sun management.
What is it with several local cafes having triangles they are calling scones?
What a let down. I look forward to a coffee and nice scone not a scone slice hard to cut and butter left with pile of crumbs and disappointment. So those cafes off our list for sure.
BY BEN CROCKER
DIRECTED BY SAMANTHA BAXTER
Theatre Nov 27th - Dec 6th 2025
Oct 6 9 hole stableford: Clarry Neame 20, Andrew Stowell 19, Don Lamond 19, John Burns 19, Don March 18, Grant Flynn 18, Ken Bennett 18, Ross Agnew 18, Les Boniface 18, Graeme Barsanti 18, Allen Knight 18, Ladies: Yvonne Hore 21, Sue Duckworth 19, Leanne Stowell 17, Janice Blake 17, Helen Neame 16. Oct 8 18 holes Stableford: Ida Beets-Huchshorn 40, Judith Batty 38, Elaine Brown 37, 9 holes stableford: Colleen McLeod 17. Oct 9 Nett Medal: Graeme Barsanti 65, John Cootes 69, Don March 70, Don Lamond 71, Graeme Parker, 71 Guido Bertogg 71, Doug Shaw 72, Morgan Bowe. 72 9 hole Stableford: Dave Horrell 22, Hay Montgomery 21, Leo McKendry 20.
Oct 11 Stableford: Mark Hoare 44, Tom Bainbridge 41, Brian Burgess 40, Roedolf Erasmus 40, Jesse Miller 38, Nigel Martin 38, Luke Yarrall 38, Ray Herd 37, Ryan Windleburn 37, Omar Kahaki 37. Ladies: Angelique van Dyk 34. Oct 11th Club Championships Jun B Men: Andre Te Whiu. Andre beat Doug Shaw 6/5. Jun A Men: Jim Findlay beat Desz Campbell 13/12. Senior Ladies: Annelize Erasmus beat Rachael Bell 7/6. Intermediate Ladies: Kaye Eggers beat Elaine Brown 3/2. Junior Ladies: Ida Beets-Huchshorn won by default from Leanne Stowell. Int A men: Mark Hoare beat Albertus van Dyk 5/4. Int B Men: Sam Rainbird won by default from Ray Herd. Senior A men: Kobe Hart beat Mark le Compte 4/2. Senior B Men: Jesse Miller beat Mike McDonald 3/2.
Oct 13 9 hole Stableford: Don Lamond 21, George Addis 20, Leo McKendry 20, Clarry Neame 20, John Burns 19, Bob Tapp 19, Don March 19, Graeme Barsanti 18, Dave Horrell 18. Ladies: Elaine Brown 23, Janice Blake 22, Helen Neame 21, Marion Flynn 21.
The Marlborough Civic Theatre Trust was formed in 1974 to govern over the Marlborough Civic Theatre, now the ASB Theatre Marlborough, and to promote the Performing Arts in Marlborough. At least two Trustees each year must retire and applications are now open for two (2) positions. Retiring Trustees may re-apply These are voluntary positions. All applications will go to the Appointments Committee for final selection.
mai, haere mai, We’re here to help ACCESS | EMPOWERMENT | JUSTICE
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Established business with existing clients, new equipment, uniform and purpose-built trailer included. Become your own boss and work your business around family, fishing or golf. Full support from a local team with over 100 years experience. A brand that’s been in Marlborough for over 30 years, and will continue to be for the next 30.
Don’t wait, it’s a great time to start! Phone Brian 027 246 6363
Email: marlborough@mrgreen.co.nz
If you are interested, nominations must be emailed to: ceo@mctt.co.nz
Subject Line: Appointments Committee
By 5 pm Friday, 24th October 2025
All applications should be accompanied by a Curriculum Vitae and include two Referees/References.
The email and covering letter should state how you, as an applicant can add value to the Trust.
•
•
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.
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.
PAGE, Jean Anne (née Mulligan formerly Charles).
03.10.41 – 10.10.25. Jean has danced her last dance and passed away peacefully on Friday 10 October at Ashwood Park. Aged 84. Jean was a loved, loving and immensely proud daughter, sister, aunty, wife, mum, step-mum, mother-in-law, grandmother, great grandmother, nurse and friend. She will be missed. Special thanks to the team at Ashwood Park for their outstanding care and support. “A restless soul finally at peace.” In accordance with Jean’s wishes a private cremation has taken place. Messages can be sent to: 23 Litchfield St, Blenheim or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz.
JEFFRIES-BRYANT, Murray Robin. 1938 - 2025 Murray received his last weather update on the 7th October. He passed away peacefully at Marlborough Hospice. A loving husband to Joy. A loving father to Stephen and Kim, Gene and Cherie, Adrian (Bart) and Melissa, April and Rob. Loving Grandad to Jarod, Chelsea and Bradley. Loving Great Grandad to Layla and Miley. Loving brother to Dawn. Messages to the Jeffries-Bryant family c/- PO Box 9 Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals. co.nz In lieu of flowers, the family would welcome any donations to Hospice Marlborough, via their website, in recognition of their wonderful care and support of Murray and his family. A service for Murray was held on Tuesday 14 October.
MCLELLAN, Gail Margaret.
Passed away peacefully at Ashwood Park Rest Home, on the 9th of October 2025, in her 79th year. A loved mother and mother-inlaw of Linda, and Debbie and Don Seares. A loved nana to Victoria and Dante. A loved sister of Garry (dec), Richard, Susan and Jill. Thank you to the staff of Ashwood Park Rest Home for their care of Gail. Messages to 3 Townend Waipara, North Canterbury 8270 or www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz. A private cremation has taken place.
Pennylane Records always buying records. Excellent prices paid, 430 Colombo Street, Sydenham, 366 3278, open 7days
r ental/board/ S hare wanted for 59-year-old single gentleman, non smoker, seldom drinker, looking for accommodation in Blenheim or Picton. Working remotely. contact Glenn 0276828184.
7”, 45’s, singles, eps records wanted, any amount top prices paid. Pennylane Records 430 Colombo Street, Sydenham ring Dave 021 222 6144, 7 days.
LLEWELL, Sidney James (Sid). Passed away on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at Wairau Hospital. Aged 78 years. Loved partner of Eva. Loved father of Stephen and step-father of Hannah; grandfather of Aaron and Lucas; and son of the late Ethel John and Elsie Evelye Llewell. Messages may be sent to the Llewell family at 3 Redwood Street, Seddon 7210. In accordance with Sid’s wishes a private farewell has been held.
O’LEARY, Michael Bernard (Mike). Passed away peacefully with family on Tuesday, 7th October, 2025. Dearly loved husband of the late Lorraine. Loved father of Catherine, Patrick and Stephen. Loved grandfather of Codey, Kieran and Thomas. Loved brother and brother-in-law of the late Gwenda and Eric Bishell, Terry and the late Hugh Byrne, the late Lewis and Kathleen O’Leary, Margaret and Errol Hancock, Pat and Peter Wells, and Annette and Robin Gibbons. Loved uncle of all his nieces and nephews. Messages for the O’Leary family may be sent to: c/- Sowmans Funerals, PO Box 110, Blenheim 7240. In honour of Mike, a donation (ref: O’Leary) to Marlborough Hospice Trust: 06-06010148609-00, or St John Marlborough: 123167-0165142-00 would be appreciated. A funeral service was held for Mike at St. Mary’s Church, Blenheim, on Saturday, October 11, and was laid to rest with Lorraine at Fairhall Cemetery.
SANDFORD, Angela Ray (Angie) née Bartlett.
Passed away peacefully at Hospice Marlborough, on the 10th of October 2025, surrounded by family, aged 86 years. A muchloved wife of Geoff for 62 years. A devoted mother and mother-in-law of Clinton and Sarah, Nadine and David, and Vanessa and Shane. Gran and Great Gran to Liam and Kaylah, Cameron, Ryan, Corbin and Felix. In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated to the Marlborough Hospice Trust and can be made via their website. Messages to the Sandford family c/o PO Box 9, Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfunerals. co.nz. In accordance with Angie’s wishes, a private cremation has taken place.
WINTHROP, Jillian (Jill) Florence (née Kelly).
Passed away on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at Wairau Hospital. Aged 83 years. Loved wife of Murray; loved mother, mother-in law-and grandmother of Jon and Kirsty, Slade and Charmaine; sister of Sharyn, twin brother John, Graeme and the late Russel. Special thanks to Wairau nursing staff for the amazing care they provided Jill in her final days. In lieu of flowers a donation to Hospice Marlborough Trust would be appreciated and may be made to a/c 06-06010148609-00 Ref. Winthrop. In accordance with Jill’s wishes a private cremation has taken place.
LIDDICOAT, Marilyn Eunice. 18 October 2000. You may have died 5 years ago, but your memory will foverver live in my heart and in the hearts of those that knew you. Eternal love always, your twin sister, Neroli Edwards.
STEAD Michelle : 17 October 2005, 20 years ago we said goodbye to you. Our hearts so heavy in the moment, wondering how we would ever get through. Your beautiful green eyes closed. Your lovely smile, the sound of your voice and infectious laugh, peacefully at rest. Those of us left behind felt utterly broken and blessed. Blessed to of had you in our lives Broken to have to say an early goodbye. For such a long time it felt like the heartache would never cease. Time has given our hearts the strength to find an inner peace. It may be 20 years, sometimes it feels like yesterday. But never think you are forgotten, Michelle. Because you are loved and missed every day. Always in our hearts. Dad (Bill), Sharon, Mike, Shayna, Geoff and Brodie.
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Sexy Asian, busty, good services, professional massage ph 021-2398399
Thursday
Week of Prayer for World Peace
The Baha’i Community is hosting an Inter-Faith Prayer Meeting at St. Andrews Church Hall,5 Henry Street. On 16th October at 5.30pm7pm. Followed by fellowship & refreshments. Bring your favourite reading for peace.
Forest & Bird Talk
- Scott Burnett, F&B Regional Conservation Manager will talk about the Fast Track mining proposal - Denniston: Too Precious to Mine , 7.00 pm, 16th October, Blenheim School Hall, gold coin donation please. All welcome. Blenheim Lions Book Fair 16-19 October
– The popular annual book fair is back. A vast range of books to browse and purchase as well as puzzles and CDs. Old Harvey Norman building, Maxwell Road. 9am-4pm daily.
Marlborough Museum
- Brayshaw Heritage, 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
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
Friday
Blenheim Family History Group in Picton
- At Picton Library on the 1st and 3rd Friday of the month, 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 9.30am10.30am. 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
Crop Swap
– Connect with like-minded backyard gardeners to swap and share your quality food and produce. 18th October, Crossroads Blenheim. 2pm-4pm. Sharing 2.30pm sharp.
Brooklyn Croquet Club Whitehead Park, Doubles 1pm - 3pm Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays. All Welcome. Mallets available GIVE IT A GO.
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, 9:00am2:00pm Stallholders include local artisans both casual and regular attendees as well as visitors from around the country. Entertainment area for kids.
The Clothing Carousel
- Sustainable Community Market, 18 Kinross St, Sunday 19 October, 10am-1pm.
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 Museum
- 1:30-3:30pm, Brayshaw Park, Arthur Baker Pl, Blenheim. Other times by arrangement. Ph Ross 0272122902. Donation appreciated. New members welcome
Monday
Picton Senior Citizens Club
– Meets every Monday, 1.30pm at Union Parish Church Picton. Housie, raffles and all sorts. Ph
Sandy 5738324
Target Rifle Shooting Summer Shoots
– Athletic Park range, 7.30pm visitors welcome, all gear provided. Cost $10. Ph 02102464417 or 021667746
Care and Share craft session
- Run at Nativity in conjunction with Green Prescription. Every second Monday until December 9:30-11:30 am. For anyone who loves doing crafts, a place to create, chat with like-minded creatives, share ideas, learn new crafting skills and make friends. For more details contact Nativity office 578 3909 or Green Prescription at the PHO. Free event.
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, 2:003:00pm & 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.
Blenheim l ions Book Fair 16-19 o cto B er – the popular annual book fair is back. a vast range of books to browse and purchase as well as puzzles and cDs. old harvey norman building, maxwell road. 9am-4pm daily.
Brooklyn Croquet Club Whitehead Park, Doubles 1pm - 3pm Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays. All Welcome. Mallets available Give it a go!
Marlborough Bereavement Group meets 2nd Tuesday of every month (except January) from 10.30am til noon in the Savvy Bar of the Scenic Hotel in Alfred Street for a cuppa and a chat (buy your own beverage). Phone 0274389024 for more information.
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 5778307 or 021463922.
Table Tennis
- Blenheim Indoor Sports Centre. Table Tennis session every Thursday, 6.30pm - 8.30pm, $6 per person to be paid at front desk.
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.
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.
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 at10am to 10.45am or Session 2 at 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
Marlborough Community Singers
– All welcome whether completely new or an old hand. No audition. New term begins Wednesday October 8th at REAP, 6.30pm-8.30pm. $9 casual. Ph Amanda 022 642 4805.
Senior Citizens Club Blenheim
– Every 2nd an 4th Wednesday of the month. 2pm, Senior Citizens Clubrooms, 172 High Street, Blenheim. An entertaining afternoon including a guest speaker, Housie, and afternoon tea provided. All welcome. Ph Shirley 0210388616. 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. 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. 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 Group - 7.30pm 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 Ross 0272122902. Donation appreciated. New Members welcome.
Providing quality care and education for children aged 3 months - 5 years, Omaka is a space for children to grow, explore and flourish as unique individuals, through a child-led, nature play based environment, where children are given the wings to fly.
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
