The GB Weekly - 30 December 2022

New Year about to kick off

Reflecting on 2022, as it draws to a close, it’s probably fair to say that it’s been another challenging year.

It began with the country subject to vaccine mandates and the traffic lights set at orange under the Government’s Covid Protection Framework.

The resultant logistical concerns, uncertainties, and worries about infections, meant several of our iconic summer events were cancelled including the 125th Golden Bay A&P Show and the Tata Boat Race.

With the whole country moving to the red setting towards the end of January, the first few months of 2022 were extremely

difficult for local businesses, schools and other organisations, and especially traumatic for those individuals who had been stood down from their jobs as a result of the vaccine mandate.

But by the end of March, restrictions had started to ease and, in April, vaccine passes were phased out as we dropped back to orange. That opened the door to the welcome return of community events, hassle-free hospitality and team sports. In mid-September the traffic light the system was finally scrapped.

Throughout what has been a turbulent time, The GB Weekly team of reporters and office staff, along with input from community contributors,

has endeavoured to provide up-to-date news, information and features that cover the rich and varied aspects of Bay life including politics, sport, the arts, local history, personal stories and public events. And there have been plenty of good-news stories focused on the talented, hard-working and community-minded people of Golden Bay – some of which are recalled in this issue.

The production and distribution of your community newspaper is only made possible through the generous support of our advertisers, who have stuck by us despite their own challenges, and our wonderful courier and distribution agents who deliver the paper

to homes and businesses across the Bay each and every Friday. Producing and distributing The GB Weekly is a genuine team enterprise in which every player is a star.

We hope that our regular readers and summer visitors enjoy this review of 2022. The next copy of The GB Weekly will appear in your mailbox on Friday 13 January 2023, by which time the seasonal celebrations will be over but there will still be plenty of Golden Bay summer to enjoy and a whole new year to look forward to.

Until then, we wish you a very Happy New Year.

Jo and Charlotte Richards, Nicola Wells

January February

progress

decisions on layout of submitted ads. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information in this publication, The GB Weekly does not accept any responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published. The content of submitted material is not necessarily endorsed by the owners. Copies can be bought and we have a subscription service. www.gbweekly.co.nz

To keep the community abreast of developments, the project team hosted an open day at Te Whare Whakata – the project field station at Farewell Spit.

For a couple of hours, representatives from all three partners and around 40 members of the public discussed some of the key issues. Later in the day, guests were taken on a guided walk across to Fossil Point on the western side of the spit.

Sharp competition at woodchop

Last weekend’s trial was no exception; on the hard, dry paddocks of Harwood’s farm in the Upper Tākaka Valley, men, women and dogs from across the South Island pitted their wits against Jock Wyllie’s Kaihoka sheep.

By the end of the weekend the club had rewritten its record books, registering a total of 209 entries, which surpassed the previous records of 203 set in 2009.

Club president Jock Wyllie once again topped the table for the most points scored over the weekend, and took home the T Burns Memorial Trophy and the MC Harwood Memorial Trophy.

Junction Green in Tākaka’s Commercial Street reverberated with the sound of axes chopping wood.

The line-up included Golden Bay Axemen’s Club members Steve Winter, Dave Gowland, Brian Godsiff, Courtney Clarke and Louise Nalder. Dave McEwen used to live and compete in Golden Bay and is a life member of the local club. He is now president of the Nelson club, vice-president of the Southern Axemen’s Association and president of the National Association.

“The support is second-to-none here,” said Dave. “It’s outstanding…what I’ve seen here over the years is bloody amazing. Sollys has been a major sponsor for Golden Bay for over three generations – and now also supports Nelson.”

A different kind of summer

After Cyclone Gita, in 2018, a small team reinstated the damaged Kaituna Track, and now that team is establishing a predator trapline along its route.

The Kaituna Track Restoration Society recently celebrated a major milestone with its capture of the 1000th pest predator. Core team members Des Clark, Darryl Wilkins, Haydon Miller, Brian Sixtus, Keith Tomlinson and Patrick Mulcahy do most of the hard yakka, but they are assisted by regular volunteers.

Des reckons the team has, so far, laid out around 135 traps along a line stretching some 16kms, but explains that the current focus of their work is on improving access. “We’re concentrating on making the trapline more walkable.”

Saturday15 January dawned perfect for Show Day, but the Tākaka showgrounds were quiet following the A&P committee’s difficult decision to postpone the 125th show.

That left a big gap in the Golden Bay summer, as it’s the biggest event in our calendar. Being an Agricultural and Pastoral show, it’s a particularly big day out for farmers and families –nearly 5000 people attended last year.

So what happens when there’s no show, and what did people do instead?

Hundreds of potential showgoers missed the annual fun of the fair, finding other entertainment – like the group pictured who went mud-sliding instead of cart riding.

Mohua

“a wonderful job”.

“The

The Workcentre job is one of a variety of projects recently completed by the team, says Mohua MenzShed chair Dave Myall. “The MenzShed have made predator trap boxes for the Rameka Project, planter boxes and picnic tables for Tasman District Council, plus a demountable hide for Forest and Bird.”

The Onetahua Restoration Project – a partnership between Manawhenua ki Mohua, HealthPost Nature Trust and Tasman Environmental Trust – aims to eradicate pests and restore native ecology across a large swathe of northern Golden Bay

Come rain or shine – and it’s invariably the latter – Tākaka Dog Trial Club always puts on a polished performance.

MenzShed recently “ramped up” its contribution to the local community, according to one very satisfied client.

Mohua MenzShed members have just finished replacing three access ramps and rails here at the Workcentre with the materials and labour funded by a donation from The Lion Foundation,” explains Golden Bay Workcentre Trust co-ordinator Alli Gardener, adding that they did

Dam’s reservoir of debt

Rockville gets Easter rolling

Tasman District Council’s controversial Waimea Dam project has been hit with a further multi-million-dollar cost increase.

The $20m blowout was announced by Waimea Water Limited (WWL), the organisation responsible for constructing the dam. The latest cost estimate for completion of the structure now sits at $185m.

It’s more bad news for ratepayers, who are likely to bear the consequence of the overrun, plus any further escalation –which has not been ruled out by WWL CEO Mike Scott: “This current cost estimate excludes some residual risks that will be evaluated before the end of the financial year on 30 June 2022.”

Stranded whales perish

Rockville Museum’s first Steam Up in some time attracted a good crowd of visitors on Easter Day.

In the autumn sunshine, the scene was that of a summer country fair. Families were gathered on the grass front of the museum – parents and caregivers keeping a watchful eye as their charges bobbed and slid around on the bouncy castle.

But of all the attractions, the main event for many of the youngsters was the arrival of the Easter Bunny, aka Di-ana Win, with her basketful of goodies. When the excited children had gathered round, the generous treasurer threw handfuls of lollies high into the air – which signalled the start of a mad scramble.

Affordable housing comes to town

All of the whales which stranded on Farewell Spit have perished.

The beached pod was first observed by a member of the public. DOC Rangers counted 36 pilot whales, spread along approximately two kilometres of beachfront. Only seven were still alive. With darkness falling, however, any attempt to refloat the creatures on that night’s incoming tide was deemed unsafe.

Representatives from Manawhenua ki Mohua visited Farewell Spit to say a karakia for the deceased whales, all of which have been anchored on the spit’s intertidal flats, at a location beyond the public access area, where they will be allowed to decompose naturally.

Fishing comp winners net prizes

Not many tenants get handed the keys to their new home by the District mayor, but Golden Bay resident Shirley Harrison is one of them.

Last Friday, Shirley became the official occupier of a new “affordable home” in Tākaka. Her pristine two-bedroom residence is one of a pair of specially-designed pensioner dwellings located just off Commercial Street.

The two homes, the latest of four built by local tradesmen under the Golden Bay/Mohua Affordable Housing Project (GBAHP), are sited on Tasman District Council (TDC) land. The others – in Hamama and Rockville – were completed earlier this year.

Bay to benefit from capital idea!

The GB Weekly Fishing Competition attracted a good number of entries as last weekend’s sunny weather bought out the Bay’s keen anglers. Saturday proved to be the best day to hook a prize-winning fish.

The competition was very much a family affair: Freya and her dad Marc Burton spent Saturday evening on the beach near where the Anatori River flows into the sea, and caught three fish between them. “We went there expecting to catch and hopefully win with the largest kahawai,” said Marc. “However I was surprised to only catch one medium kahawai.” But he did land a decent-sized snapper, measured at around 49cm in length.

Two weeks ago, amateur historian Ann Tickwitty came across an intriguing document which showed that “...Collingwood is, and always has been, the official capital of New Zealand.”

A copy of a report, leaked to The GB Weekly by a source close to the Government, details plans for dispersing Ministries to locations around the country, and eventually relocating Parliament.

The flagship development is the sustainable new Parliament building and surrounding campus. Already dubbed “The Wasp’s Nest”, the new home of New Zealand’s Government will be located on the banks of the Aorere River and is earmarked for completion on 1 April 2030.

Exhibition “one of the finest”

Dramatic derby day draw

“Kokowai”, a collaboration of paintings by local artist Robin Slow and Taonga Puoro (musical instruments) by carver Brian Flintoff and musician Bob Bickerton, is one of the finest exhibitions Golden Bay Museum has held. Manager Karen Johnson said that it was such a privilege to have the exhibition created especially for Golden Bay Museum.

The exhibition theme “Kokowai” refers to the dark red ochre found at Parapara from which paint was made during the time of colonisation. Robin has incorporated kokowai into many of these paintings, beginning with the legend of Ranginui and Papatuanuku, the red signifying their spilled blood when they were separated.

Suburbs skate past Stingrays

Last Saturday delivered derby day drama as Tākaka and Collingwood battled it out in the much-anticipated Tasman Rugby Senior Division 2 clash.

Reflecting local interest in the tie, a large crowd gathered well before the 2pm kick-off and both sets of supporters cheered their teams on for the full 80 minutes.

In the final action of the game, Collingwood’s Brad Goulsbro stepped up and struck a perfect kick to add two points and bring the scores level at 16 apiece.

While neither team would be overly happy about the result, the last-minute salvage operation meant that the Collingwood dressing room probably was the more satisfied.

Red carpet at film festival

It was the first opportunity to see the Stingrays in action on home turf this season, but it proved to be a frustrating fixture for the hosts who conceded eight goals and failed to find the opposition’s net.

Stingray’s coach Pete van der Meer was clearly stung by the manner of the defeat, but acknowledged the superiority of the opposition. “Their boys were just better than us. We worked hard but we were all over the place. We couldn’t get the passes together.” But he still took some positives from the match. “It’s just one of those days, but it’s a good lesson.”

Wholesome harvest festivities

Tākaka rolled out the red carpet last Friday night for the delayed screening of the 2021 Top of the South Film Festival, the very best in short film-making from Westport to Kaikōura.

Event director Patsy Burke was thrilled to be able to bring the programme, now in its eighth year, to Golden Bay for the first time.

The People’s Choice winner for the night was Alien Weaponry’s Tangaroa – a furious blend of Māori haka and heavy metal – whose angry protest message seemed to connect with the audience. As Covid caused the postponement of this festival’s original screening last year, perhaps Tangaroa offered a healthy way of dealing with pandemic-based frustrations.

Top competition at squash tourno

The weather turned on a great day for the annual Harvest Festival at the Sustainable Living Centre.

It’s part of the centre’s kaupapa to celebrate the main harvest season with a community gathering, bringing people together to have fun, connect, enjoy local entertainment and eat yummy local kai, and the event once again achieved its goal.

The food stalls served delicious local seasonal meals and drinks for all to enjoy.

As the evening arrived, the event site was beautifully lit up with lights, creating a “hyggelig” [soothing conviviality] scene enjoyed by people chatting around the braziers or dancing to the tunes.

Tākaka Squash Club’s annual open tournament attracted more than 30 entrants, who competed over three days at Queens’ Birthday weekend.

There was notable success for the home club which produced winners in the Men’s 1st Division and both of the mixed competitions.

Joining the local club members as they watched the action on the courts below, was Waimea Squash Club president Chris Baird. “I like to support small clubs – they are more friendly.” Tākaka Squash club’s facilities have not gone unnoticed, according to tournament organiser Paul McConnon. “Everyone is saying what a phenomenal complex we’ve got here.”

Golden Bay’s men’s 2nd XI were in action against Nelson Suburbs FC Nayland at Tākaka’s Rec Park last Saturday.

July August

Fire, bubbles and stars combine

United in spirit of football

A large crowd was treated to a feast of entertainment centred around the heavens in Tākaka last week.

The month-long postponement of a variety of Matariki performances due to constant rain and widespread illness finally ended. A crowd of more than 300, decked out in winter woollies to brave the chilly evening, were welcomed with a blessing and karakia to begin the festivities.

What followed was over an hour of quality, action-packed, light-filled theatre, song and fire dance. Among the various items was a well-researched interpretation by the DramaLAB Training Room performers embodying the separate characters of the seven-star cluster of Matariki.

Tata hosts waka ama races

Players united in the spirit of football at Tākaka’s Rec Park.

During an action-packed day, Golden Bay Association Football Club (GBAFC) challenged teams from Richmond AFC to a series of matches – all in a good cause. While the footie was clearly fun, it also raised funds and awareness for three charities: the youth-mentoring Big Brother, Big Sister Nelson-Tasman; the young person mental health support charity I Am Hope; and the Nelson Special Olympics Football Team.

Following last year’s inaugural charity game, the event is now an established annual fixture.

“It’s one of the biggest days in our football calendar,” said GBAFC president Phil Smith.

Waka ama crews from across the Top of the South gathered at Tata beach on Sunday morning for the latest round of racing in the Winter Series competition.

Joining hosts Onetahua Waka Ama Club were two Nelsonbased clubs – Maitahi and Te Tai o Aorere, plus one from Motueka.

The glassy sea, slight swell and light winds created ideal conditions for waka racing and the narrow hulls sliced through the water at a surprising speed.

The home rangatahi crew, expertly steered by Eric Lander, produced an excellent performance to beat favourites Motueka back to the beach with some impressive paddling.

Concrete progress for cohousing

Bright sun was very opportune at the Tākaka Cohousing construction site in Meihana Street, last Wednesday.

The day had been marked for the pouring of the concrete pads for the first four homes, a notable landmark in the development of this project.

While a towering crane suspended the hose gushing wet cement for a team of builders to spread and smooth, members of the excited project team arrived on site who were delighted to see – literally – concrete evidence of progress.

After years of research and development the project has become a reality, and is hoped to become a vibrant addition to the community.

The heavy rain that drenched Golden Bay last week inflicted significant damage on roads, property and other infrastructure.

Work to restore full access to all parts of the community is expected to take some time.

Between Tuesday and Saturday, a series of intense and prolonged downpours caused localised surface flooding, plus numerous slips and washouts that effectively isolated parts of the community.

The five-day deluge was well flagged by MetService, NIWA and Tasman District Council, whose early weather warnings enabled resources from within and beyond the Bay to be mobilised ahead of time.

Flooding causes havoc across Bay Winter series goes out with a bang

Golden Bay Netball Club’s winter series competition went out with a bang on Sunday with play-off finals in both A and B Grades.

During the week leading up to Sunday’s showcase, semifinals were played for both grades, plus play-off matches to decide lower ladder placings. All games were played in the NBS stadium at the Rec Park Centre.

In the battle for Grade B supremacy, Girls with Attitude held on against Super Liquor to score a 29-24 victory.

The showcase final between A Grade’s top teams was keenly anticipated and it didn’t disappoint. During a final frantic 10 minutes, Courthouse dug deep to beat NBS by 35-33.

Two weeks on from the rainfall event that caused widespread damage to Golden Bay’s roads, several routes remain closed or subject to ongoing traffic restrictions.

Within the Bay, the most significant issue appears to be the reinstatement of SH60 at Birds Hill just beyond Waitapu Bridge on the way to Collingwood.

Amongst the other affected roads in the Bay, at the time of going to press, some were open but for residents only, including Falconer Road (Pōhara), Bird Road (Clifton), Rameka Road, Dry Road and Abel Tasman Drive (Wainui Hill). Other routes – Glenview Road, Totaranui Road, Awaroa Road and Cobb Road – remained closed.

The long road to recovery Voters meet candidates

Smooth sailing at Open Day

Golden Bay residents took the opportunity to meet the mayoral and ward council candidates for the upcoming local body elections.

Two well-attended sessions were held, one a mid-afternoon meeting at the Collingwood Area School hall and the other an evening session at the Tākaka Senior Citizens’ Hall.

Both events were firmly chaired, keeping the speakers strictly within their allotted time and audiences respectful.

Despite some entrenched grievances and recent societal division over the Government’s pandemic response, the diverse range of views and opinions aired took place in a civil and wellordered environment.

Carnival vibe at kids’ show

Calm seas and light winds created perfect conditions for Pōhara Boat Club’s Open Day on Sunday morning.

Shortly after 9.30am, in the safe waters of Tarakohe Harbour, a fleet of small dinghies was gliding serenely across the shimmering surface, under the watchful eye of club commodore Tom Lake in the safety boat.

On shore, parents and supporters looked on, while committee members were busy preparing the barbeque, welcoming visitors, and overseeing the launch and recovery of the club’s Optimists and O’pen Bics.

“It’s all about the kids – giving it a go, having fun on the water and being safe,” said committee member Chris Ray.

Covered arena opens its doors

On

of the all-weather facility.

The concept for the hall was born with the words “I have an idea…”, uttered by Kris Russell to her friend Baerbel Hack. Both are passionate equestrians who teach horsemanship and vaulting respectively.

“It has been my childhood dream since I was 12 to have an indoor arena,” says Kris. “I am 66 now, so it only took 54 years. So perhaps the message is to never give up on your dreams.”

Bay Art exhibition opens

Sunny skies, a large crowd, and plenty to do and see, created a summer carnival atmosphere at Saturday’s Boys’ & Girls’ Agricultural Show. “It was a brilliant day,” said organiser Abbie Langford speaking after the event. “We were so lucky with the weather.”

From early morning, Tākaka’s Rec Park was an activitypacked show ground where people mingled with pets and farm animals.

Reflecting on the show, Abbie said she was delighted to witness Golden Bay getting involved and having a good time. “It was so great to see families and community enjoying the day, and seeing all the fantastic entries from our fabulous tamariki.”

The iconic Bay Art exhibition opened hot on the heels of the Young@Art celebration on Friday.

Upcoming young artists and their families intermingled with established artists and appreciators, all enjoying the variety of entries exhibited in the Golden Bay High School hall.

GB Arts Council chair Anna Dean said she and the three judges “were moved to tears” by the calibre of the artworks presented. Among their comments were for Professional Section...winner Hesta Macready: “A depiction or rendering of a commonly employed topic...the craftmanship outstanding.”

And on Supreme Award winner Brian Cooper’s Zombie Hunter exhibit: “Funny, sinister and topical…we absolutely loved it.”

A stunning blue-skied spring day marked the grand opening of Golden Bay’s first undercover riding area, Granity Riding Hall.

Sunday 16 October, a crowd of over 300 hippophiles gathered at Grant Road in Puramahoi to celebrate the opening

Bay celebrates its sports stars

December

Riders rev up Old Thumpers

Golden Bay’s sporting stars received due recognition for their achievements at the NBS 2022 Golden Bay Sports Awards ceremony, held at Tākaka’s Rec Park Centre on Saturday evening.

When NBS Tākaka branch manager Dean Lund eventually presented the Supreme Award to cyclist Hans Bauer, he congratulated all nominees.

“You all deserve your place here. You are all stars.”

That summed up a sparkling event that celebrated Golden Bay sport and its many participants and supporters.

Although Hans pedalled across the line for the Supreme Award, there were many other highlights during the evening.

Country bowls Town over

Sunday’s Old Thumpers classic motorbike scramble attracted riders from across the country to the festival of mud and motorbikes at Ōnekakā, where overnight rain had softened the circuit creating almost ideal motocross conditions.

For spectators, the natural amphitheatre setting allows a full circuit view of the action, as well as amplifying the howl of the engines and the snap, crackle and pop emitting from the exhausts.

Apart from a short break for lunch, the action was pretty much non-stop with the starters ensuring the next batch of revved-up bikers were ready to roll as soon as the previous race had finished.

Red carpet rolled out for Prince

Lawn bowlers from across the region competed for the Max Cup on the Tākaka Bowling Club green on Saturday.

The one-day tournament, a Town-versus-Country clash, saw men’s teams from 12 clubs engage in a series of head-to-head matches. At the end of the day, the Country came out on top, beating the current holders 218 points to 182.

Speaking on Monday, Tākaka club president Murray Mackay said he had received good feedback on the tournament. “All the visiting teams appeared happy, with the games being played in good spirits. We received many comments on the very good condition of the greens, but the actual playing conditions were quite difficult due to the strong swirling wind.”

Bay remembers on Armistice Day

honoured at his retirement after serving 51 years with the Tākaka Volunteer Fire Brigade.

of long and loyal service. But for Tākaka fire chief Philip Woolf and the Bay’s brigade, it was also an inaugural celebration; the first time in Golden Bay history that anyone has achieved 50 years of firefighting service here.

anyone’s job profile or even their life profile really,” said Philip. Over 160 friends and dignitaries travelled from around the country to be part of the function at the Recreation Centre.

On Friday morning, crowds congregated in

Tākaka

In Tākaka, President of Golden Bay RSA Noel Baigent welcomed everyone with before the flags were lowered to halfmast accompanied by The Last Post. After Noel’s reading of The Ode, came the traditional minute’s silence which ended with The Rouse and the standards being restored to the masthead.

The solemn ceremony recalling past sorrows was then transformed into something more joyful and optimistic as Tākaka Primary School students launched into a heartfelt haka, followed by their rendition of two famous WWI songs.

From around 9.30am on Saturday, crowds gathered on Commercial Street in anticipation of the annual Santa Parade.

The parade began with a chorus of sirens and horn blasts from the fire engines and other emergency vehicles that followed the leading truck, which carried musicians from Tākaka Citizens’ Band and Motueka Band. Hot on the wheels of the fire engines, the carnival continued with a procession of vintage cars, festive floats and marching groups, while the Rec Centre’s Tom Lake distributed sweets from his lolly bucket.

Last but not least, bringing up the rear, was Santa himself, sitting alongside a trio of little helpers in a sleigh riding on the back of a blue ute.

Collingwood and

to commemorate the end of the Great War and to remember the casualties of conflicts around the world.

DOWN TO EARTH: Survival tips for January

SOL MORGAN, GROWISE CONSULTANCY

Managing your garden through all the summer festivities is the challenge this month. Crops are growing at phenomenal rates provided they are getting adequate moisture and fertility. Others may be bolting (going to seed) in hot, dry weather. The following are tips to keep the garden surviving:

Watering: Lack of soil moisture is the main reason crops bolt to flower, especially fast-growing salads. You can also shock them into bolting by not weeding carefully and pulling roots out around your food plants. Surface trimming with a niwashi is the best, I find, followed by a good watering. Mulching is highly recommended to help reduce evapotranspiration and retain moisture. Hand-watering is best done early morning or evening and is a nice way to stay tuned with the garden.

Salads: Summer isn’t the same without fresh salad greens. Continuously sow and plant a mix of lettuce, endive, chicory, mizuna, and spring onions. Rocket, radish and even lettuces are best direct sown now in between larger growing crops, which provide valuable shade.

Training: Fast-growing, creeping and climbing crops like tomatoes, cucumbers and beans need almost daily tending to keep them from not entwining themselves where you don’t want them. Carefully designed structures help mitigate this. Grow plants up bamboo poles or string lines, or even over frames like 665 mesh. Removing older dying or diseased leaves

keeps life energy in the growing parts.

Harvesting: Ongoing picking of crops encourages more cropping. This is especially the case for fruiting vegetables like beans and zucchinis. If left, the plant focuses on producing seeds for the following season.

Boosting growth: Supplementary feeds – liquid fertilisers, side dressings of compost, worm castings or blood and bone – all help feed the soil and plant. This is especially important if the soil lacks fertility.

Lawn mowing: Most of us like a tidy lawn. It is best this month to mulch-mow to provide the growing lawn with some organic matter, even though lean clippings are valuable mulch.

Fruit care: Net fruit crops like canefruit for bird protection. Remove damaged fruit and those with diseases, and dispose away from the orchard. Chop down the seeding understory to provide trees with mulch, or mow the orchard. Leave some flowering plants to provide nectar for beneficials. Keep spraying liquid seaweed as a nutritional tonic to the leaves.

Take time to appreciate your garden. Take some time to chill out under a shade tree or browse and sample the abundance your garden has to offer. Use flowers to decorate your kitchen table during festivities. Our garden is our sanctuary from busy times. Enjoy, and if you can’t supply the table from your garden, then support our local growers.

SOL’S GARDEN JOBS FOR JANUARY

Vegetable care

Complete leek planting.

Harvest all garlic, shallots and onions once tops flop. Keep mounding/mulching potatoes, yams and corn. Lift kūmara runners back onto beds so they don’t re-root. Remove shield bugs to avoid damage. Feed to chickens. Spray Bt on Brassicas weekly. Plant Brassicas in the shade. Thin carrots and beetroot, and mound. Deter carrot rust flies with coffee grounds.

Stake crops for seed saving, ie lettuce, but not bolting ones. Stake asparagus fronds and feed with compost and mulch. Make compost as you weed. Use a spare bed or make a beside garden so nutrients run into it.

Hothouse: Propagate winter crops. Hang shade cloth if it’s too hot. Ventilate, water daily and feed. Spray with garlic, chilli and soap vs aphids. Replace yellow sticky cards.

For transplanting: All seeds 5 and 9 January. Spring onions and leafy greens (celery, spinach, spinach beet, silverbeet, lettuce, endive, cabbages, kale, cauliflower, broccoli, Brussels sprouts) (also 18-19 Jan). Herbs and flowers (best 6-7 Jan).

Sow direct: All seeds 5 and 9 January. Salads, spring onions (also 18-19 Jan). Corn, zucchini, pumpkin/squash and cucumbers, French and climbing beans (also 10-12 and 20 Jan). Carrots, beetroot, radish, parsnip (also 13-15 Jan). Flowers (best 6-7 Jan).

Herb care

Harvest seeds to use with cooking, ie coriander and

Harvest herbs for drying.

Direct-sow annual herbs outdoors.

Fruit care

Stake new plants and protect with wind cloth.

Replace pheromone in traps vs moths.

Summer prune, especially stonefruit and big tree cuts.

Support laden branches. Net to protect from birds.

Prune grapes to six leaves after fruit.

Spray all-purpose oil or neem vs insects on citrus, etc. Spray lime sulphur vs disease and insects.

Remove fig growing tips to encourage larger fruit.

Keep spraying Bt on berries vs caterpillars.

Insert trichodowels vs silverleaf fungus.

General garden care

Turn compost to speed up decomposition.

Prune perennials and shrubs after flowering.

Trim hedges and mulch prunings.

Add chippings to fruit.

Plant: Best 1-5 and 21-31 Jan. Salad greens, spinach, cabbages, celery, leeks, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, broccoli, late tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini and late potatoes. Flowers.

parsley.

Onions bulbing up and a good crop of corn in a well mulched bed, both at Fertile Ground. Photo: Sol Morgan.

Outstanding community members recognised

As a Council, we are charged with delivering essential services to our communities, whether it be roads, parks, water, waste management – the list goes on. However, if there is one important factor in our District we cannot, and should not take for granted, it is the communities themselves.

Our communities have unique and defining features that stand them apart from one another, making up the cultural quilt that is Tasman. These defining features are often made, reflect and are supported by the people we celebrate with our annual Outstanding Community Service Awards.

The awards were presented earlier this month by Mayor Tim King to a group of people who provide the glue by which many of our communities function and exist.

Award recipients this year are Sharon Beuke, Joan Reilly, Pam and Donald Gardiner – known locally as Team Gardiner, and Wendy Barrett.

Over the next few months in Newsline, we will profile each of these deserving people and highlight just how each one of them contributes to making Tasman a great place to live.

See it, report it!

If there’s something strange in your neighbourhood who are you going to call? The Council!

We have staff and contractors ready to deal with situations 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

In the past few months, we’ve had several instances where people have noticed something wasn’t quite right but, in some cases, waited several days before getting in touch.

One of these was a wastewater overflow that ended up getting into a waterway and then onto an adjacent beach. If we had been notified earlier we could have dealt with the problem before it spread that far.

So, if you notice strange-coloured liquids running into a creek or drain, a pothole getting bigger in your street, or you smell something that’s not very nice coming out of a manhole cover, please call us. Alternatively, you can use the Antenno app on your phone to report issues.

Antenno is a two-way communication channel where we can let you know what’s happening around the place, and you can also report problems directly back to us so we can get someone to sort them out.

So next time you have one of those moments where something doesn’t appear quite right, and you think the council should know, call us any time, day or night on 03 543 8400 or grab the Antenno app and get in touch.

Rain reduces Rangiheata Road

The impact of August’s big weather event continues to be felt across our region, this time in Golden Bay where a stretch of Rangiheata Road will have to be reduced to one lane.

Four slips along a short section of cliffs under the road have made it unsafe to keep the seaward lane open.

We’ve received the results of preliminary geotechnical investigations of the area, and these show it won’t be possible to rebuild the roadway to cope with two-way traffic, at least in the short term.

Our transportation engineers have decided to follow the geotechnical recommendations and are going to close the seaward lane of Rangiheata Road, reducing it to one lane for the foreseeable future.

A new timber barrier is being built, and road signs and markings are being installed to show drivers which direction has priority along the 65-metre length of single-lane road.

Our engineers are investigating long-term options for road access.

Where can Rover go this summer?

Now that the lazy hazy days of summer are upon us, there are a few rule changes across Tasman affecting the four-legged members of the family.

Under our dog bylaws, there are certain places and times when Fido, Rex and Fifi can and can’t go.

From now until the beginning of March, dogs are not allowed at:

• Collingwood Camping Ground. Pākawau Beach – camp frontage.

• Tukurua Beach.

• Patons Rock Beach in front of the settlement. Tata Beach – from sunset to 8.30 am, and between 20 December and 20 January between 10.00 am and 5.00 pm.

• Ligar Bay Beach except between 5.00 am and 9.00 am.

• Little Kaiteriteri Beach except between 5.00 am and 9.00 am.

• Stephens Bay Beach except between 5.00 am and 9.00 am.

Pōhara Beach – from the eastern camp boundary to Selwyn Street Reserve.

Remember the three Ps this festive season

“Please think again before you pour the fat from the roast turkey or lamb down the drain!” That’s the Christmas wish of our wastewater team this festive season.

Last month there was a wastewater overflow at Ligar Bay, following a similar incident at Stephens Bay several months ago, which ultimately made its way, via waterways, to the beach and into the sea. The causes were tracked back to blockages by grease and fat with water escaping from manhole covers. Clearing blockages is unpleasant expensive work, the cost of which is ultimately borne by ratepayers.

Remember the 3 Ps, only put pee, poo and paper down the loo and keep fats out of drains.

... and if you notice a problem with our wastewater network anywhere in Tasman, please call us 24 hours a day seven days a week on 03 543 8400 and we’ll get someone to investigate and sort it out before it becomes a major problem.

There are many other places in Tasman to exercise your dog, both on and off the leash.

Find out where these areas are on the map on our website, tasman.govt.nz/exercising-your-dog

Is your pool ready for summer?

As the weather is heating up, we look for ways to keep cool. If you are thinking about installing a permanent or temporary swimming pool this summer, it is important you consider your legal obligations under the Building Act 2004.

Any swimming pools that can hold water to a depth of 400mm or more (even if the pool is only partially filled) are required to have a barrier (such as a fence) to restrict unsupervised access by young children.

There are specific requirements on what can be used as a barrier, ensuring it isn’t climbable and minimum gaps and heights.

Visit tasman.govt.nz/swimming-pools for more information or phone 03 543 8400 and ask for the Pool Compliance Officer.

Let’s keep everyone safe this summer!

COUNCIL HUI

ACROSS 1 Dreary Edward promises to settle (7) 5 Do they plead for a happy ending when courting? (7) 9 Crew pole (5) 10 Fisherman’s gain after expenses (3,6)

Listening range for lugs at high temperature (7)

Old banger caused right mayhem (4-3) 13 Light support (8)

Needles for you to become seated (4,2) 17 Head-master might get into a row and berate (6) 19 Twerp has charge dropped finally, only to give a bit at a time (4,4) 22 Unstable CO with a mind wandering (7) 24 Laid low by a space and an empty end (7) 26 Overwhelming defeat from a doubtful ring count (9) 27 A certain stage that gives protection (5) 28 Sounds like a racket! A boar-house line (7) 29 Feared dead - the German is worried (7)

DOWN 1 Liking a drop? (5) 2 Mass following help returning the picture (7) 3 Ready-made but not on the quiet for example (3-3-3) 4

It’s not nuts to accept it is thoroughly clean (8) 5 Make it known he’s a dodgy French ticketseller (3,3) 6 Swore badly - that’s much more unacceptable (5) 7 The results of having one’s belongings (7) 8 A steep outcome? (9) 13 Somehow, a tin-medal was overlaid with plastic (9) 15 Spying on dodgy pies gone a way out (9) 16 Phoned and sloppily read about it to get sorted (8) 18 No work on return follows light ridicule (7) 20 Stood at the finish - it could be rude (7) 21 It follows a copper maybe youthful at first but cunning (6) 23 Depressions brought on semi-sudden and way back (5) 25 Ate out to end in strife (5)

Generous, kind, and fun-loving

Trevor Boyes moved to Golden Bay in 1961 living, working, and serving generously in this community until his death late last year.

He was born in Motueka on the final day of 1939 as a second child, eight years younger than his brother. The Boyes family lived on a Lower Moutere farm growing apples, tobacco and sheep. Trevor helped with farm work, hoeing weeds, driving the tractor, and being paid one penny a row to top and delateral tobacco.

Piano and singing lessons began young, and when entering competitions in Motueka, Trevor’s then-soprano voice earned him many awards. He was accomplished in singing, piano and “recitations”, gaining judges’ praise for his “clear tone” and “sustaining outstretched arms” as a scarecrow in the “in character” section.

Sadly, when Trevor was only 12, his mother died suddenly. His father sold the farm six months later and a lonely time followed. With his brother already married, Trevor waited each day for his dad to come home, pressing his nose against the window, hoping his mum would walk up the drive. When he was 14, Trevor was offered work in a garden shop and was glad to leave school. After one day of training he found himself in sole charge and by the end of the first week had nearly sold out of plants. The owner told him to buy more, and with this early experience of ordering, selling and banking, Trevor became a capable worker. He swapped plant retail for clothing when he took an offer of a job with Millers in Motueka. Three years later, at 21, he was promoted to manager of Millers Tākaka with three staff under him. It was the last place he wanted to be, but he accepted when he was assured that it would be only for a short time. Trevor initially stayed at the Telegraph Hotel then found board until his landlady became ill, and Arthur Herrick invited him to stay on his farm. They entertained with dinner parties and functions, but again sadness arose when Arthur died tragically from electrocution.

In spite of challenges, Trevor settled in Tākaka and that “short time” became over 60 years’ service.

In 1961 he began at Millers Drapery, at 37 Commercial Street. On Easter Saturday four years later he married Tui Dorn, and four years after that they bought the business and started Carpets and Fashions and a travel agency. Thirty-three years later with their two daughters grown up, the couple moved down the main street to a new shop they simply called Number 27. They received the Top Shop in Golden Bay award in 1995. Trevor pioneered Saturday shopping in Tākaka and customers fondly recall his oft-repeated saying “good as gold”.

Trevor followed his boyhood talents at the Motueka Drama Club, then the Tākaka Drama Society, where over the years he was treasurer, front-of-house, properties, president, producer and actor. He played the king in both pantomimes, Jack and the Beanstalk and Cinderella, as well as taking all the bookings for shows for 30 years. At after-show parties Trevor sat all night playing the piano, accompanying singing. He received Drama Society life membership and was also patron.

His love of musical theatre also led him to travel widely to see shows.

From the first meeting called for interested people, Trevor was involved with the Information Centre. His contribution was significant: fundraising, sharing Christmas dinner for visitors and volunteers there every year, organising trips to local attractions, arranging flowers and gifts, to being manager of the Golden Bay Visitor Centre until it was taken over by i-SITE Nelson with paid staff. Volunteers remember all the good times: “What do you call a male who dines with about 30 females and lives? Just one word: Trevor.”

Both Tui and Trevor were founding members of the Golden Bay Promotion Association, established in 1982. Life membership followed in 1997. A grateful business owner summed up Trevor’s service: “With all your years of experience it was wonderful to have your wisdom and wise ear to counsel

us. We really felt your warmth and encouragement.”

Trevor also served as treasurer of Tākaka Museum and helped raise funds to buy Margaret Wilson’s collection. He judged the Sportsman of the Year Awards “being ever-careful that rules and criteria were being met and each decision was fair”.

In 1996, Trevor and Tui received a TDC Community Award for outstanding services to the community “for their involvement in Tākaka Swimming Club, Golden Bay Promotions, the drama club, and the Tākaka Museum”. Although he appreciated all the awards he received, it was his friendships with so many people that counted most to Trevor, as “he really loved connection with people”.

Tui “shared 56 years with Trevor, a generous, kind, funloving person”.

“Trevor has always been selfless. He will be remembered for his gentle caring nature, his positive outlook and the love of his family.” His two daughters Karen and Cheryl remember their Dad “offering us endless love, security, and guidance through our lives, teaching us honesty, integrity, patience and empathy”.

He had an ability to talk to anyone which, as well as making him “the most wonderful shopkeeper and salesman,“ with countless loyal customers and local friends, also led to many overseas friendships as Trevor invited people to their home, where there was always a welcome. Trevor and Tui travelled widely, enjoying visiting the girls overseas and going on cruises, including to the Antarctic. They also loved returning to their Tākaka home where Trevor kept a beautiful flower garden.

There were many tributes after he died: “Trevor was an adored and loving Poppa”; “He was an example of a true gentleman”; and a “dear, dependable, super-organised and most valuable member of Golden Bay community”.

On his own farewell service sheet, Trevor wrote “Remember: Every day is a Good Day!” This was a principle he lived by, and his positive, caring friendship contributed to good days for many others too.

Trevor Boyes, 1939-2021. Photo: Supplied.

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Review: Avatar: The Way of Water

Fri 30 4:00

Screening Schedule - December to January

Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (PG)

8:00 Whitney Houston:

I Wanna Dance with Somebody (M)

Sat 31 2:00 Strange World 3D (PG) FINAL

5:00

It has been 13 years since Wairarapa resident and worldfamous director James Cameron first landed audiences on his fictional world of Pandora.

Avatar gained huge acclaim for its jaw-dropping visuals, using then state-of-the-art 3D technology to make the forest world as immersive as possible.

Our own world has certainly changed since 2009, and the long-awaited sequel, Avatar: The Way of Water, goes some way to reflect this.

As the title implies, Cameron gives vent to his well-known love of oceanic exploration and shifts the action away from Pandora’s forests to its sea. Sparkling shorelines and atolls straight from the pages of an extraterrestrial travel brochure become the new setting.

The mechanical and militaristic forces of Earth have returned to make another brutal attempt to exploit and settle Pandora. And this time the villain from the first film, Colonel Quaritch, (Stephen Lang), has been reborn in avatar form and is back to wreak revenge on the Na’vi clan, and Jake Sully in particular.

Sully (Sam Worthington) and Neytiri (Zoe Saldana) seek refuge for their young family among the green-hued Na’vi. With the introduction of our main characters’ teenage offspring we see a clear acknowledgement of the increasingly influential YA (Young Adult) demographic in popular entertainment. The very long middle part of the film is mainly concerned with the efforts of Jake and Neytiri’s children to adapt to their new home. Fortunately, much of this section also takes place beneath the waves, where Cameron once again boggles our eyes with his dazzling portrayal of an aquatic ecosystem.

Anyone who has ever swum through shoals of tropical fish during a Pacific island holiday will feel transported back to that experience, as audiences glide through alien coral reefs richly inhabited by otherworldly – but somehow familiar – sea life, all exquisitely designed and animated by Weta studios.

A strong Māori and Pasifika influence is clear in the culture of the coastal Na’vi, and our own Cliff Curtis plays their Kirituhi tattooed chief. Other cast members include Cameron favourites Kate Winslet and Sigourney Weaver, but don’t expect to recognise them.

Now that Sully and his foe Quaritch have completely embraced their lanky, feline Na’vi forms, some viewers might miss the absence of a straightforward human actor to relate to. Making this easier to accept are the emotional nuances that over a decade of technological advancement can now give to computer-generated faces and performance. In addition, a nondigital Jemaine Clement brings some much needed comedy relief to compensate.

Audiences come to a film like this expecting spectacle, and that is certainly what we get. But at the same time, Avatar: The Way of Water feels scaled down and more personal, which is refreshing, and hints that Cameron is holding back for his many promised sequels to come.

There is some irony that both Avatar films are unsubtle commentaries on the damaging effects of industry and mechanised warfare on nature, and the importance of maintaining a connected ecosystem, yet they rely very heavily on technology and vast corporate finance to convey this message. Cameron writes and directs action extremely well, but the occasional lapses into space-hippie poetry and the outrageously two-dimensional (despite the 3D glasses) personalities of the villainous “jar heads” from Earth sometimes clank as badly as their armour does.

Like the first Avatar, a complex plot is not the purpose of this film. It’s about taking you to stunningly imagined places and immersing you in wonders you’ve never seen before.

In this, Avatar: The Way of Water overwhelmingly succeeds.

Avatar: Way of Water 2D (M)

Sun 1 New Year’s Day: Theatre Closed.

Happy New Year!

Tue 3 8:00 Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody (M)

Wed 4 5:30 Blueback (PG)

Thu 5 8:00 Maigret (M) ENCORE

Fri 6 4:00 Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (PG) 8:00 Bones and All (R16) Friday Night Horror!

Sat 7 2:00 Little Eggs: An African Rescue (PG) 5:00 Blueback (PG)

7:30 Avatar: Way of Water 3D (M)

Sun 8 4:00 The Lost King (M) 8:00 A Man Called Otto (M)

Mon 9 7:30 Avatar: Way of Water 3D (M) FINAL

Tue 10 8:00 Blueback (PG)

Wed 11 5:30 Never Forget Tibet (G)

Thu 12 8:00 I Wanna Dance with Somebody (M) FINAL

Fri 13 4:00 Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (PG) FINAL 8:00 Three Thousand Years of Longing (M)

Sat 14 2:00 Little Eggs: An African Rescue (PG) FINAL 5:00 A Man Called Otto (M)

8:00 The Lost King (M)

Sun 15 4:00 Emily (M) ENCORE

8:00 Farewell Mr Haffmann (M) ENCORE

Buy tickets online at villagetheatre.org.nz or lobby ticketing as normal.

Ticket Prices:

Adults (16 and over) $16

Seniors (65+), Students, Members $14

Concession - Members $12

Children (4-15) $10

Movie Descriptions

Over a decade since his solo feature film, and having used up eight of his nine lives, Puss goes on a daring journey to find the illustrious Last Wish with the hopes of restoring his life count.

EMILY (M) (True story/Biography/Drama) 2hr10m

Emma Mackey is Emily Brontë, one of the world’s most famous writers who died too soon at the age of 30, in this biographical drama charting her journey of rebellion and womanhood.

THREE THOUSAND YEARS OF LONGING (M) 1hr50m

While in Istanbul attending a conference, academic Dr Alithea Binnie happens to encounter a Djinn who offers her three wishes in exchange for his freedom.

BLUEBACK (PG) Drama/Kids/Family 1hr45m

Eric Bana and Mia Wasikowska star in this adaptation of Tim Winton’s best-selling novel. The film tells a story about the ocean, a beautiful marine creature, and a young girl’s power to change the world.

A MAN CALLED OTTO (M) Comedy/Drama

Otto, a grumpy isolated widower with staunch principles, has strict routines, a short fuse, and gives everyone in his neighbourhood a hard time as he watches over it like a hawk.

Toto and his friends must find a way to travel to African and rescue their Little Eggs while avoiding hungry crocodiles, a trio of clueless hippos, a bunch of crazy moneys and even the king of the jungle himself.

I WANNA DANCE WITH SOMEBODY (M) Drama/Music/True

Naomi Ackie plays the one and only Whitney Houston in this career-spanning biopic of the R&B pop legend. From the director of  Harriet  and the Oscar-nominated writer of Bohemian Rhapsody

THE

LOST KING (M) Drama/True

Oscar nominees Sally Hawkins, Steve Coogan and director Stephen Frears join forces, retelling the story of the historian who found the lost remains of King Richard III... underneath a Leicester carpark.

Story 1hr50m

BONES AND ALL (R16) Drama/Horror/Romance

A story of first love between Maren, a young woman learning how to survive on the margins of society, and Lee, an intense and disenfranchised drifter, as they join together for a 1000-mile odyssey.

NEVER FORGET TIBET (G) Documentary 1hr30m

Over sixty years after China’s Most Wanted Man escaped from occupied Tibet, this documentary follows The Dalai Lama as he recounts his escape into India.

ALISTAIR HUGHES

Story

2hr10m

PUSS IN BOOTS: THE LAST WISH (PG) Kids/Family 1hr45m

LITTLE EGGS: AFRICAN RESCUE (PG) Kids/Family 1hr30m

Animation

Charles Dickens envisaged A Christmas Carol as a book for Christmas, but also as a response to the appalling conditions of the poor, when young children were sent out to work from wretched homes often half-starved. He was actively involved in working to improve social conditions, but, of course his novels were most effective in bringing the exploitation of the working class to the attention of the general public. He himself had been sent to work at a blacking factory at the age of 12, often going hungry on a meagre wage.

A Christmas Carol was published on 19 December 1843. It sold 6,000 copies before Christmas and has remained a favourite ever since with all kinds of readers. My uncle, who himself left school at the age of 12 in the 1920s to work in a factory, used to read to us, his younger relatives, an extract from the novel every Christmas, to our great delight. It has been adapted countless times for theatre, cinema and TV and for solo performances. Dickens himself gave a dramatic reading to an enthusiastic audience of 20,000 for a charitable cause. So what makes this book so universally beloved?

Of course the story itself is spellbinding, told with the supreme energy and warmth that is Dickens’s inimitable style. The miser, Ebenezer Scrooge, resists all efforts to turn him from his cold, selfish ways. He bullies his clerk, Bob Cratchit, paying him the meanest of wages with which to support his family, including his beloved disabled son, Tiny Tim. He refuses to donate to charity, retorting “The union workhouses – are they still in operation? The treadmill and the Poor Law are in full vigour? I am glad to hear it”.

Scrooge’s life is changed by the appearance on Christmas Eve of the ghost of his former partner, Jacob Marley, dragging the chains of his selfish life through eternity, and by the ghosts of Christmas past, Christmas present and Christmas yet to come. These spirits show him what he was in his youth, what he has become and what lies in wait for him if he doesn’t change his ways.

Scrooge is transformed and becomes aware of the preciousness of human life and friendship and the book ends on a note of thankfulness and celebration.

Dickens’s exuberant style and characterisation create a vivid world. The contrast between the extravagant, fully laden Christmas shops with their eager customers and the ragged, starving children and the evil underclass of cheats and thieves is a powerful comment on the gulf between the haves and the have nots – something increasingly relevant in today’s world.

When we reach the end of the story, the concluding words are truly satisfying:

“It was always said of him [Scrooge] that he knew how to keep Christmas well, if any man alive possessed the knowledge. And so, as Tiny Tim observed, God bless us everyone.”

GBHS Dux’s diligence and focus

RONNIE SHORT

Imogen Harris is Golden Bay High School’s Dux for 2022.

For the 17-year-old, earning Dux was the culmination of a year of diligence and focus.

“I put my entire life into it,” she says.

As well as being crowned Dux, the year 13 student earned the He Kaitiaki o te Taiao (Greenager of the Year) award, the Principal’s Outstanding Leadership Award (together with fellow head student Isaac Pawley) and a Contribution to School Award for leadership in the student executive. She also achieved first place in both year 13 biology and English.

The academic prizes also came with some financial rewards; University of Otago awarded her a Leaders of Tomorrow scholarship of $6000, plus $3000 for Dux, while Network Tasman Trust granted her $2000.

It was while she was in year 7 that Imogen learned of the Dux award and set her sights on it.

“I wanted to get it because I liked school and always wanted to do my best.”

During years 7-12, Imogen could effortlessly recall and write down exactly what she’d learned. However, this year she realised the need to study, after teacher Chris Stephenson commented that she was only “doing okay” in physics.

Imogen has the utmost respect for Chris and his comment came as a shock to her.

“He said I needed to try harder…I felt like I was…after then I started trying really hard.”

She achieved Merits and Excellences instead of “just Passes”, although she was determined to attain Excellence in all subjects.

“Every time I got anything lower than an Excellence I did the assessment again, no matter how big it was.”

Imogen repeated her physics and maths assessments twice, chemistry and English once, and missed excellence in only two of them.

Self-discipline is definitely part of Imogen’s toolkit. She found running very beneficial and completed an 8km beach and bush circuit most evenings.

“Because I’m so busy I struggle to stop and be introspective. You’ll never catch me relaxing, I can’t. But if I go for a run, my legs are moving and my arms, so I can’t be doing anything else.”

Besides studying in every spare moment, Imogen also worked at Dada Manifesto, where she is sous chef. Now she is working in the restaurant five days a week and enjoys quality time with her friends on her days off.

There’s no doubt that once Imogen puts her mind to

REVIEW BY ELEANOR WILSON

Dux of Golden Bay High School, Imogen Harris, with the Dux trophy and medal plus the He Kaitiaki o te Taiao (Greenager of the Year) Award. Photo: Ronnie Short.

Seventeen-year-old year 13 student Alvin Rhodes achieved Dux status at Collingwood Area School this year. He also earned first place in technology and mechanical engineering.

When Alvin found he no longer had the mentoring and guidance he needed after science teacher Garry Lewis passed away, he realised he’d have to work harder. Technology teacher Lloyd McPherson became his inspiration during 2022, Alvin’s final year at school.

According to Alvin’s mother Deborah, it was Lloyd’s technical, design, and artistic skills that contributed to his accumulation of 16 credits for creating a flame coffee roaster. It was the result of a year’s work, which included one external and two internal exams.

It was Deborah who suggested the idea.

“I have always bought green coffee beans from Wayne Green and roasted my own on a piece of perforated steel on the barbecue. It’s flame roasted, which gives a different flavour.”

With the aim to design and build something that would make the whole process quicker, Alvin first researched what was available, but found nothing that did flame roasting. He consulted with his parents and Lloyd.

“But ultimately most of the design and build was his own,” said Deborah, who believes it wouldn’t have happened at any other school in the country.

“The opportunity was all thanks to Lloyd, his imagination and creativity.”

The resulting flame coffee roaster surpassed Deborah’s expectations. She asked Alvin where the plug was, as it drives the motor that turns the cylinder drum holding the coffee beans.

“Well, it’s got a USB plug...It’s portable so you use a power bank – there’s no plugs outside, Mum.”

Besides the power bank, the roaster has a connector to a gas bottle for the barbecue element inside, which provides the heat to roast the coffee beans. Alvin did the spot welding but the perforated steel drum required stainless-steel welding, so he had Waitapu Engineering make that part.

Having spent nine years at CAS, Alvin reckons his highlights were “Probably the school camps we’ve had over the years”.

Currently Alvin is staying with his grandparents in Richmond and working for Kernohan Engineering in Port Nelson where he is a trades assistant. He says, “It’s not too bad.”

He needs to save for Canterbury University next year, where he will study for a mechanical engineering degree. Unlike the University of Otago, the University of Canterbury had no Dux fund, so Deborah and Alvin are hopeful their

application for a grant from the Golden Bay Community Trust will be successful.

At this stage, Alvin’s keeping his options open as to what the future may hold.

Collingwood Area School Principal Hugh Gully presents the 2022 Dux award to Alvin Rhodes. Photo: Ronnie Short.

Enjoy your flying toys this summer but stay away from power lines

Drones, model aircrafts and kites make great Christmas presents, but if you aren’t familiar with the rules of flying there is potential for things to go very wrong.

Short walk: The Aorere Goldfields

We want everyone to enjoy their unmanned aircraft this summer, and we also want everyone to be safe, especially when around electricity. Flying drones, model aircraft and kites close to power lines can quickly dampen the fun and put people and property at risk.

Model aircraft, kites or drones touching power lines or equipment can risk causing a flashover, explosion, fire or electrocution. This won’t just damage your aircraft but can affect other people and property put at risk from a power cut.

If you are pitching a tent, look up and be aware of overhead wires. Tent poles are more than capable of reaching overhead power lines when fully assembled. It is also important to secure your tent firmly as windy conditions can cause tents to blow up into power lines risking power cuts to yourself, your neighbours or your campground.

Here’s what you need to do to help you stay safe:

z Always fly your aircraft in an area free of power lines and associated equipment

z Keep your aircraft within your line of sight at all times

z Fly drones and model craft in clear, calm weather when it is easier to see them and keep them under control

z Only fly your aircraft during daylight hours

z Check for nearby power lines when putting up or taking down tents and ensure they are firmly secured

If your aircraft becomes entangled in power lines or electrical equipment or flies into a substation, phone us on 0800 508 100. We will safely retrieve it for you. The team who work on and around our lines are trained to enter these facilities safely and are on call to help. Have fun and play safely this summer!

ROSA VOLZ

Distance: 8.4 km loop.

Difficulty: Easy walking.

Terrain: The terrain is a gentle gradient on a mostly wellformed track, though there are a few steep and rutted sections. The track navigates farmland and low-lying pakihi vegetation comprising manuka, rushes and umbrella fern, giving way to denser bush in parts. The track is well signposted.

Access/parking: There is plentiful parking at the Aorere Goldfields car park on Devil’s Boots Road, Rockville.

Tips and tricks: The majority of the track is exposed to the elements, so it’s best attempted in clement conditions. Take a torch if you wish to explore the caves, in particular the Ballroom Cave.

Golden Bay takes its European name from the discovery of gold in the Aorere Valley in 1856. These were the first goldfields in New Zealand and the local population surged with an estimated 2,500 prospectors. In turn, this drove the growth and prosperity of Collingwood community – which then housed three merchants, two shoemakers, a tailor, two butchers, seven inns and police buildings.

The Aorere Goldfields loop traces the path of the miners’ ground-sluicing claim, dam, water race and Bedstead Gully settlement. Importantly, it includes two ancient caves, the Stafford and the Ballroom, estimated to have been formed over 700,000 years ago.

From the carpark, cross a stile and follow the track through undulating farmland. Less than a kilometre into the trail you will pass between large piles of boulders. This is the original site of one of the ground-sluicing claims. Water from the dam and race (many kilometres away) was run over the face and the alluvial matter was washed through a sluice box, from which any gold was retrieved.

The track meanders gently upwards across Druggans Flat, with a short detour to the left to take in the sights of the heavily forested gorge housing Stanton Creek. After another kilometre or so, the track reaches a junction with short side trips to visit the Aorere Caves. The Stafford cave requires some careful footwork to access. The sizeable Ballroom Cave was rumoured to host miners’ dance events. If you have a torch it’s well worth an exploration. Be careful of water and mud underfoot.

The main track then follows remnants of a four-kilometrelong water race gently upward, emerging at Druggans Dam. The views on this stretch are superb, taking in the Wakamarama ranges, Ruataniwha inlet and (on a clear day) Farewell Spit. A Historic Places Trust plaque furnishes a rock at the turnoff for the dam with a potted history. The dam was first established in the 1870s on what was then called Toi Toi flat by George Druggan, and further extended in the early 1900s by the Slate River Sluicing Company with the objective of providing yearround sluicing capability.

From there, the main track broadens and climbs above the lake, following an undulating gradient across increasingly rough ground for several kilometres. This section is elevated, with sparse vegetation and particularly exposed to the elements. After about two kilometers there is a junction. Bear

A visitor from Hawkes Bay summits the ground-sluicing claim. Photo: Rosa Volz.

Felix and Paul O’Connor in the depths of the Stafford cave. Photo: Rosa Volz.

right to close the loop just before the turnoff to the Aorere Caves. Then return the way you came up – which makes a pleasant downhill journey.

In line with most solicitors, our office will be closed from Friday 23rd December 2022 and will reopen on Tuesday 10th January 2023. We will be available remotely for all of your property needs.

Locals

proudly supporting the local community in 2022:

Grandstand Trust

Golden Bay Bridge Club Programs

CAS Sports Students

Vaulties - Hack and Stay

Golden Bay/Motueka U52kg Representative

Rugby

EPro8 Challenge

Golden Bay Rural Women Auction

Golden Bay Sports Awards 2022

Collingwood Area School End-of-Year

Prizegiving

Golden Bay Highschool End of Year Prizegiving

GB A&P Girls and Boys Show

Marlborough Rescue Helicopter Trust

Pink Ribbon Street Appeal

Free hire of gazebo to community events

Mohua Social Services - Little Ray of Giving

Golden Bay Rogaine

Golden Bay Lions Bingo Night

Mohua Affordable Housing Trust

Licenced Agent / Business Owner 0276085606

Mickayla

Licensed Salesperson 0272978477

Y o u r h o m e d e s e r v e s E l i t e s e r v i c e

Billy and her team are proud to have had a successful year in 2022

Property Management

Healthy Home Compliance Updates

The Government has now extended Healthy Homes Standards compliance dates for private landlords, with the changes having taken effect on 26 November 2022

For landlords who have not yet been required to meet the standards, the timeframe for compliance for a new or renewed tenancy increases from 90 days to 120 days

The final date by which all private landlords must comply has moved from 1 July 2024 to 1 July 2025

The rental landscape in New Zealand continues to change, with new rules coming into force around how we manage our tenancies and the quality of properties that are provided for rent.

The rules in place apply equally to both property managers and private landlords, so it’s important that everyone involved in renting property stays up-to-date

Managing a tenancy is now heavily compliance-based and there can be significant penalties for those landlords not managing everything that is required. While many New Zealand landlords choose to self-manage their investment properties, they often do so without fully understanding the risks involved with non-compliance, which can be significant and costly

At Ray White Golden Bay our Property Managers are highly experienced, qualified, and award-winning Jenna was awarded Property Management Office of the Year in 2019 and this year was a finalist in both the Small Office of the Year and Property Manager of the Year at the recent Ray White New Zealand Awards

Let us help manage your property its a decision you won't regret

Billy Kerrisk

Ormsby

Jenna Bowden

Why have your rental property professionally managed?

25th

26th

Friday

HELPING HANDS

Thank You for giving us the opportunity to help you during 2022

We are here because you keep us going! Thanks again for your kind support. We wish you all a Very Merry Christmas and look forward to lending a “Helping Hand” again soon!

Helping Hands is a Te Whare Mahana Company offering clients supported paid employment as a step towards permanent work. We offer training not only in practical skills and equipment, but also mentoring, support and motivation.

Please get in touch if we can help you with any garden maintenance work - we do the jobs you hate at a great rate!

hh@twm.org.nz

027 343 5780

Facebook: Helping Hands GB

AL-ANON: Are you affected by someone else’s drinking?

Weekly meetings, 1.30pm Monday at the Catholic Hall. All welcome. Ph 0508 425 2666.

GB Animal Welfare Society Inc (ex-SPCA). Ph Carol Wells 525 9494, 8am-5pm weekdays.

ALCOHOLICS Anonymous, open meeting, all welcome.

Thursdays 7pm, 94 Commercial Street. Hall behind the Catholic Church. Ph 0800 229 6757.

FRESH FM needs your help. Are you willing to host a fundraising event to support local radio? Or help run one? Check out our website freshfm.net. We’re a Charitable Trust – a $30 donation (that can be made on our website) is tax deductible.

in natural builds. www.elementalbuild.nz, ph 022 087 6396, hello@elementalbuild.nz

FLORIST, local florist for flowers for all occasions, call now and place your order 027 758 1138 or online www. goldenbayflowers.co.nz. Teresa Brough Designer Florist.

FREEVIEW TV, radio, HiFi, WiFi, electronics. Ph 027 246 2432.

GB CHIMNEY SWEEPING, SPIDER AND FLY SPRAYING Ph 524 8795 or 027 434 5405

GOLDEN BAY DIGGER HIRE 1.7 tonne. Ph 027 713 0684.

GOLDEN BAY ROOFING

Maintenance, leaks, repairs and roofing supplies. Licensed Roofer. Ph 027 395 0037.

GOLDEN Bay Storage, Tā kaka. Dry, safe, secure, alarmed, insurance approved. Furniture trailer available. Ph Marg 027 222 5499, goldenbaystorage@gmail.com

HEAT pump installation, sales and servicing. Ph Dave McKay 027 404 4740, 525 8538.

KRW Contracting. Tiling, Ardex licensed waterproofing applicator, blocklaying and bricklaying. Ph Ken 021 307 019. No job too big, no job too small.

LAWNMOWING. Pakawau, Bainham, Tākaka to Wainui. Ph N Shaw 525 7597, 027 212 4020. niallshaw_6@hotmail.com

would love to hear from you if you have:

• Experience in administration

• Excellent working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite

• Strong communication skills with the ability to build relationships and work within a team

• Attention to detail and good organisational skills

• A proactive and positive approach

Consent for Police Vetting is required.

Applications close: Until filled! For a job description and application form, please e-mail hr@twm.org.nz, or go to www.twm.org.nz/careers

Are you looking for a part-time position with an hourly rate above average? If you are grounded, empathetic and able to put people at ease, t alk to one of our coaches at TWM, cell 027 627 9255 (Mon- Thu, 12- 4pm) for more information

TRADES AND SERVICES / Mahi a ratonga

Abel Tasman Accounting Limited Xero Certified, Public Practice CA. Taxation services and general business support for clients of all shapes and sizes. Available evenings and weekends. Ph Bronwyn 027 268 4010, bronwyn@abeltasmanaccounting.co.nz

ACCOUNTANT and tax advisor. All Inland Revenue returns filed for big and small businesses and individuals. Self-employed and rental property reports prepared. Day and evening appointments available. Ph Susan Ayton Shaw 929 7507 or email taxayton@gmail.com

ACCOUNTANT. Long-standing market leader with unbeatable professional qualifications and experience. Warn & Associates, ph 525 9919.

LAWNMOWING, www.goldenbaypropertyservices.co.nz, ph 027 690 0769.

ORANGE Rentals have rental cars, trailers and a furniture trailer available for hire. Ph 027 337 7147.

PAINTER available, call Borrelli Painting for a free quote. All interior/exterior jobs. Ph Luca 022 086 1842.

PAINTING and interior, exterior plastering. Licensed qualified local tradesman. Ph CM Coatings 027 222 0507.

PENINSULA Plasterers for all your interior plastering needs. No job too small. Quality assured. 20+ years’ experience. For a free quote ph Craig 027 472 4376.

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED. Ph John 027 647 4913.

SEWING SERVICE, NEEDLES, THREADS, WOOL, BEADS. Stitch ‘n Sew ph 525 8177.

Friday – 9/12 + 16/12

ARBORIST, qualified, ph Jack Stevens 021 211 5580.

CARS wanted. Will pick up for free (some conditions apply). Motueka Auto Parts. Ph 03 528 9576.

CHIMNEY cleaning, handyman, Dennis Sage ph 027 873 0726. CITRUS pruning, garden/property design, edible landscaping, soil testing, garden mentoring. Sol Morgan, GroWise Consultancy, ph 027 514 9112.

ELEMENTAL Design and Build: New builds, renos, refits, alterations. Environmentally-conscious builders specialising

STUMP grinding specialist. Tree care and property maintenance. Ph Carl 027 263 5353.

TĀKAKA Garden Services, for all your lawn and garden needs. Ph 027 525 8006 or 525 8806.

TILER. Wayne Robinson Tiling. Tiling new bathrooms, kitchens, etc. Ph 027 576 1620.

WINDOW cleaning. Ph Willem 022 134 1726.

WINDOW cleaning, www.goldenbaypropertyservices.co.nz, ph 027 690 0769.

SITUATIONS VACANT / Tūranga wātea

PUBLIC NOTICES / Pānui a whānui

PROPERTY AVAILABLE / Rawa watea

ANEL BAKER Physiotherapy at 22 Meihana Street, Tākaka. Ph/txt for an appointment 021 053 4337.

CAROLYN Simon: Craniosacral therapy, naturopathic consults, personalised herbals and flower essences.Txt 027 483 5865, ph 525 8544.

DEEP tissue massage, trigger points, accupressure for muscle pain, reduced mobility, stress, sports. Lymphatic drainage for lymphoedema, post surgery. 28 years’ experience. Ph Paul 027 772 7334.

LOLLY Dadley-Moore. Biodynamic craniosacral therapy, aromatherapy, professional supervision. Ph 027 338 9504, inbodyhealth.co.nz

MASSAGE AND REIKI. Emma Sutherland (Ameliorate). First one-hour treatment - $45 for GB locals. www.ameliorate.nz. Ph 027 487 2639.

MEDICAL DOCTOR does private consultations in integrative medicine. NZ registered. 40 years’ experience. Second opinions and intravenous therapies. Bruce R Dooley MD, ph 525 7125, health@drdooley.co.nz

NATURAL nail care studio: specialising in non-toxic high quality pedicure services, difficult nail conditions. Ph/txt Amy Anderson 020 4079 0646.

Chiropractor

FOR SALE / Hei hokohoko

AUTOMOTIVE, marine and deep cycle batteries in stock now at Steve Prince Auto Electrical. Ph 027 616 5211.

SUBARU Legacy Station Wagon, 2009, 101,600km, 2450cc turbo, auto, leather. Top condition. $13,500. Ph 027 758 8041.

RELOCATABLE house, in Ligar Bay, Tata beach area, Fraemohs construction, approximately 90 square metres, three-bedroom, kitchen living area, one bathroom. Expressions of interest welcome. Ph 027 220 6214.

EATING OUT / Kai wahi kē

ANATOKI SALMON fishing and café. Catch your own lunch or order from the menu. Open every day from 9am-5pm. www. anatokisalmon.co.nz

COLLINGWOOD TAVERN. 11am-7pm, Sunday-Thursday; 11am-late, Friday and Saturday. Live music - check out our Facebook page for details.

COURTHOUSE CAFÉ, Collingwood. Open 7 days, 8am-3pm. Saturday nights are pizza nights, 5-7.30pm, dine in or takeaway. Ph 524 8194.

DANGEROUS KITCHEN. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 9am-8pm. For bookings and takeaways ph 525 8686.

DE-LISH DELICATESSEN . Sumptuous, delicious food. Lunches, catering, coffee, chocolate, cheeses and epicure items. Weekdays from 6.30am. Ph 525 7111.

MOLLY B’S, Pōhara. Ph 525 7678. Follow us on Facebook for upcoming events and opening hours.

OLD SCHOOL CAFÉ Open Thursday 4pm till late and Friday, Saturday, Sunday 11am till late. Low and slow ribs Saturday evening.

O’SHA, open Tuesday-Sunday, lunch 11.30am-2.30pm and dinner 5-8.30pm. Ph 525 6117.

THE MUSSEL INN. Open 7 days from 11am.

TOTOS CAFÉ & PIZZERIA. Open bookings only, weather permitting. Ph 03 970 7934, totoscafegallery@gmail.com

WHOLEMEAL CAF É , open 7 days for dine-in meals and takeaways, 7.30am-3pm.

CHURCH SERVICES ON SUNDAYS

GOLDEN Bay Anglican Church warmly invites you to join them on Sunday, 10am at Tākaka or 4.45pm at Collingwood (starting with a cuppa). Fellowship gatherings (fellowship, songs, prayer and bible study) held fortnightly – 1, 15 and 29 January 2023; Traditional services (with a speaker) held on 8 and 22 January. SACRED Heart Catholic faith community celebrate Mass at 5pm Sundays.

ST Andrews Presbyterian Church extends a warm welcome to join us for morning worship and communion, 1 January, at 10am. Rev David Moynan.

ST Andrews Presbyterian Church extends a warm welcome to join us for morning worship, 8 January, at 10am. April Hay.

THURSDAY 5 JANUARY

The Mussel Inn Coming Up...

Sat 31st New Year’s Eve with DELUSIONAL DISCO DRONGOS + DOW P’DOW DOW + GENRE FLUID. $35 tix @ eventfinda - limited! $40 gate sales from 5pm if available.

JANUARY

Mon 2nd OAKLEY GRENELL band, $15

Wed 4th DILLISTRATE, $20

Sat 7th LABRETTA SUEDE, $25 tix online

Sun 8th O & THE MO + HEAVY CHEST, $20

Wed 11th ENSEMBLE SANGINETO, $20

Sat 14th NEWTOWN ROCKSTEADY, $20

Sun 15th NEWTOWN ROCKSTEADY unplugged, $15

Sat 21st OSCAR LADELL + SUNDIAL + TUSEKAH, $20

Fri 27th RICHTER CITY REBELS, $20

FEBRUARY

Wed 1st THE BARLEYSHAKES, $15

Wed 8th NIGEL GAVIN et al, $15

Sat 11th SASSAFRAS, $20

Tue 14th SCOTT COOK, $15

Sat 18th JOHN LLOYD & PHIL DOUBLET, $15

Sun 19th NIKAU HARP TRIO, $20

Wed 22nd JOEL FAFARD, $15 Sat 25th SOMEBODY DO SOMETHING, $20 Sun 26th ESTHER SWIFT, $20

see www.musselinn.co.nz