2024 in pictures: A montage of images that appeared on our pages over the past 12 months
As the end of the year approaches we reflect on 2024 while looking forward to 2025.
This year has been another one of changes and challenges. Harsh economic conditions resulted in an extremely difficult winter for many local businesses and, sadly, some did not manage to ride out the storm.
Meanwhile the ripples from the some of the government's proposed legislative changes quickly spread from Wellington creating considerable local controversy and debate.
Much in our resilient community, however, remains the same; our talented, hard-working
and community-minded people continue to punch above their weight in the fields of sport, the arts, conservation, and business including farming, hospitality and tourism.
Throughout the year the team at The GB Weekly works hard to capture the breadth and depth of life in Golden Bay and celebrate it though our pages. It's a challenge to say the least! Distilling 12 months of coverage into this single issue is, therefore, a near-impossible task, but we have attempted to do just that.
The production and distribution of your community newspaper is only made possible
through the loyal support of our advertisers, who have stuck by us despite difficult economic conditions, and our dedicated network of courier and distribution agents who deliver the paper to every home and business in the Bay. We are deeply grateful to them – and to all our readers.
We hope that our regular readers and seasonal visitors enjoy this review of 2024. The next copy of The GB Weekly will appear in your mailbox on Friday 10 January 2025. Until then, we wish you a very Happy New Year.
Jo and Charlotte Richards, Nicola Wells
Summer Sale
January February
Tākaka team rebuilding business
In the wake of the devastating blaze that destroyed ITM’s main building in Tākaka last Thursday, management and staff are working flat out to get the business back up and running.
Although the retail and paint shop building lies in ruins, the nearby trade service centre, joinery and timber yards were unaffected. Through some canny repurposing of the surviving buildings, however, ITM is, once again, in a position to supply its Golden Bay customers with the bulk of their needs.
Manager Luke Brown is optimistic for the future. “Eventually we’ll have a new, modern, purpose-built building.”
Or, as owner Philip Woolf puts it: “The phoenix will rise from the ashes.”
Tata Boat Race
The sun shone brightly on Tata Beach for Sunday’s Cardboard Boat Race. However, relief turned to trepidation at the sight of the crashing surf whipped up by a building westerly wind.
Despite continuing rough conditions, the race began on time, shortened to rounding a single buoy and returning to shore, rather than the traditional two.
Unfortunately, the mighty Imperial Star Destroyer was instantly overturned, while others capsized or quickly began to disintegrate. Meanwhile Tatariki had rounded the buoy and was paddling furiously back, still closely followed by A Watery Grave
The prizegiving began with a surprise award for Best Sense of Humour to the weather gods.
Golden Bay’s big day out
Last year’s milestone Golden Bay A&P Show was a hard act to follow but the Association pulled it off, thanks to the traders, competitors, animals, entertainers, and, last but not least, the showgoers, who all turned out to make it a great day out.
The Grand Parade provided the focal point of the day, led by the Tākaka Citizens Band, which has played at all 126 shows. As the final machine exited the arena, GB A&P Association president Duncan McKenzie addressed the crowd before being joined by his daughter and granddaughter, Julie and Khloe Shadbolt respectively. “Three generations,” said Duncan of the tableau that seemed to encapsulate the long, unbroken timeline of the show.
Pōhara Boat Club’s fishing competition was blessed with beautiful weather. A total of 51 adult and 35 child entrants took to the waves, or cast from the shore, to bring the best of the Bay’s ocean bounty to the weighing table.
Boat club committee member Kelly Jaquiery was thrilled with the event. “It was a huge success,” she reported, “with lots of happy kids, and proud winners with their prizes.”
An expectant crowd had the opportunity to bid for their favourite catch as Craig Taylor opened the auction around 3.30pm. By the end of the afternoon, 188.8kg of fish had been donated, and the total raised for the rescue helicopter and coastguard came to a total of $1625.90.
Tākaka Dog Trials “thriving”
Dogs, humans and sheep provided two days of entertainment and keen competition at the Tākaka Dog Trials.
Now in its 128th year, the annual event is “thriving”, according to Tākaka Dog Trial Club secretary Ian Alach. “Total entries were 204, just behind 2022 which has our record of 209. Heading entries and Short Head were 84, passing our previous high of about 65.”
On the steep hillside course, the deep barking of a huntaway provided the soundtrack for Saturday’s Straight Hunt.
Among the local entries were Grant “Jock” Wyllie, Pax Leetch, and Ellie Miller who enjoyed a particularly tidy run with Dodge. “I’m very pleased,” said Ellie. “It’s my best run of the weekend.”
It’s been a record-breaking time for Tākaka Athletics. Records tumbled when the young Tākaka Athletics team travelled to Saxton Track in Richmond to compete against their peers from Nelson, Richmond, Moteuka and Marlborough in the inter-club Winstone Cup competition.
On the day, Aleisha Best broke the 10th Grade Girl’s shot put record with a distance of 7.15m, Ruby Darwen soared to a record 1.54m in the 14th Grade Girl’s high jump, while Ella Baigent added another 72cm onto the 16th Grade Girl’s shot.
This was the final inter-club competition of the season but the athletes will be back in action at the Tasman Championships which are being held at Saxton over the weekend 24-25 February.
Old Thumpers hits thirty
Old Thumpers, Golden Bay’s classic scramble, celebrated its 30th anniversary on Sunday.
From mid-morning to late afternoon, the sound of vintage motorcycles at full chat could be heard as they sped around the track on Allan and Shelley Palmer’s Onekakā farm. Ben Smith, who along with his partner, Lola Clouston, and the Old Thumpers committee organised the event, was pleased with the number of entrants, which he said was “just shy of 100”. Reflecting on the event, on Monday, Ben was clearly happy with the 30th anniversary scramble. “The day went as well as I could have hoped, with great weather, heaps of spectators, and riders.”
Firefighters red hot at Challenge
Golden Bay brigades were in red hot form at the South Island Firefighter Challenge in Invercargill.
The event, organised by the United Fire Brigades’ Association of New Zealand, attracted competitors from all across the South Island for what is known as the toughest two minutes in sport.
The stars of Tākaka’s 39ers burned brightly to take top spots in several categories. In the team events, the 39ers won the Open Relay and Aggregrate competition, while in the Open Men Individual, Kyle Gardiner and Sam Goffriller were placed first and second respectively. The duo also took out top spot in the Tandem. Tākaka’s veteran competitor Neil Gardiner said the results were “stunning” .
Farmer harvesting sunshine
Tucked away in the Tākaka Valley is an award-winning solar farm, quietly generating enough power to supply 310 homes year-round.
The solar farm, a testimony to the determination and resilience of second-generation dairy farmer Hamish Hills and his family, has been running since March 2023 and the sheer scale is mind-blowing, comprising just under 3,000 northfacing panels standing 3.5 metres high, covering 2.5 hectares of farmland.
Hamish’s advice for anyone that is thinking about undertaking a similar-size project, is that “it’s not easy, but it is incredibly rewarding”.
Family fun at Easter Fair
The Tākaka Cohousing community is looking distinctly bedded in, with an established green in the centre of the completed first neighbourhood of 34 brand new homes.
Last Sunday, there were people everywhere, enjoying live music, local craft and homemade food stalls, and games at the cohousing community’s Easter Fair.
The relaxed afternoon gave families a chance to enjoy a picnic, catch up with friends, and learn more about the new neighbourhood, which we have all watched come together over the past few years.
“More people came than we imagined and the atmosphere was bubbling,” said organiser Simone Wooland afterwards.
Battle on the bowling green
Thirty teams of lawn bowlers from across the region and beyond competed in the annual Golden Bay Memorial Tournament last weekend.
The two-day tournament is organised primarily by Pōhara Bowling Club with support from Tākaka Bowling Club, but the number of participants means that the greens of both are used.
At Pōhara club president Bob McTaggart and secretary Jenny Westrupp looked on from the clubhouse. “It’s going very well,” said long-serving Jenny, who was made a life member of the club in 2018.
“This is our big tournament,” said Bob. “It’s our 39th, so we have our 40th next year.”
Hungry Goats make history
A little piece of sporting history was made at Tākaka’s Rec Park on Saturday.
“It’s the first ever win in Division One for Golden Bay,” said GB Mountain Goats’ skipper Danyon Fleming, shortly after the final whistle blew in their match against Motueka 1st XI.
Having been promoted to the top tier of Nelson Bays Football Senior Men’s competition, the opening game of the season was a chance for the Goats to test themselves, and they passed with flying colours, coming out on top with a 4-1 victory.
Player-coach Lee McKenna was clearly delighted with his team’s performance. “Everything we’ve done in training came out… I can’t fault the young lads.”
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Bay’s war dead remembered
Anzac Day services in Golden Bay this year were tinged with poignant reminders of the losses close to home.
Noel Baigent, president of the Returned and Services Association spoke at Tākaka’s dawn service of the price paid by servicepeople from this community. The presence of the Mounted Rifles, the Cocker family, marching tunes from the brass band, and speeches and readings personalised the terrible impact of war.
Noel said it was sobering to contrast this peaceful moonlit dawn, with the horror of 109 years ago. “At this time of the morning, our soldiers and their counterparts had already been in battle for two hours after landing on the beach at Gallipoli.”
WI branch going strong at 90
Uruwhenua Country Women’s Institute (CWI) members gathered at the historic Motupipi Hall to celebrate the 90th birthday of this highly esteemed organisation and retrace some of its colourful history and good works.
Already established since 1921 elsewhere in New Zealand, CWI was finally introduced to Golden Bay in 1934.
At Monday’s celebration, Elva Harwood, Uruwhenua member for over 50 years, and Kay Hart, member for 60 years and past national president, reminisced with amusing anecdotes. “We have had a lot of fun over the years,” said Kay.
The hope is for new members to ensure Uruwhenua will still be functioning by its 100th year.
Siren’s call for Sam’s Creek
Bay choppers looking sharp
The annual King’s Birthday Challenge took place at the Telegraph Hotel on Sunday 2 June.
The Golden Bay club had a very strong contingent, including Brian Godsiff, Brett Pocock, Ashleigh Radford, Linde Kynast, and Serena and Dave Gowland.
In the Women’s 275mm Underhand Challenge final Serena lost out to Nelson’s Emma Riddell but in the Open Challenge 250mm Standing and 300mm Underhand, Dave took both – the first time in the event’s history that both disciplines have been won by the same axeman.
Dave also won the Standing final, beating beat Willie Abel after eliminating Rossie Birchfield and Brett Pocock on the way.
Government urged to bin bill
A crowd of more than 200 people gathered on Tākaka’s Village Green last Saturday morning to voice their opposition to the Government’s Fast-track Approvals Bill.
The rally was given added impetus by Siren Gold’s application under the Fast-track to mine gold at Sam’s Creek.
Stepping up to the microphone, Debbie Pearson described the legislation as “the most undemocratic bill” she had come across in her life. “
The crowd then set off to walk the triangular route comprising Motupipi, Meihana and Commercial Streets, thereby highlighting the potential size of the waste dump resulting from Sam’s Creek mine, should it go ahead.
Collingwood in last-gasp win
Last month, Australian company Siren Gold Limited submitted applications for mining at Sam’s Creek in the Cobb Valley, and at Reefton, to be considered as a “listed projects” under the coalition’s Fast-Track Approvals Bill.
The company’s mineral resource estimate (MRE) of 824koz of gold would be worth around NZ$3 billion.
The scale of the operation means something in the region of 11 million tonnes of rock would need to be mined, processed and dumped. And it is the potential environmental impact of the dumped waste that is the key issue for Andrew Yuill, coapplicant for the recently-granted Water Conservation Order. "Sooner or later there would be a disaster.”
Collingwood hosted Tākaka on matchday eight in the Tasman Rugby Division 2 competition. The annual derby is the highlight of the season, and rarely fails to live up to its billing.
In a close match it was Tākaka who held the advantage and with just 20 minutes to go, they led to 7-11.
The game was going to script: the favourites were marching towards victory. But the home side regained the initiative. turning the screw as they mounted wave after wave of attacks, serving up high drama in a gripping final act. With each push they got closer and closer to the try line until, with just two minutes left to play, the brave Tākaka defence was finally breached. Final score: Collingwood 14, Tākaka 11.
Light festival burns bright
Outriggers race at Tata July August
The Community Light Festival drew a large crowd to Tākaka’s Junction Green for a feast of music, light, fire, and dance.
As dusk turned to darkness attention turned to the large back-projection screen installed for Dance Collective Mohua’s (DCM) shadow projection dance performance, The Light Fantastic. Moving as jet-black silhouettes on the vivid and everchanging coloured screens, the young, well-choreographed dancers created a magical story.
DCM’s show was a hard act to follow, but Claire French and her fellow fire dancers pulled it off with a spectacular 20-minute routine full of flaming rings, burning torches, and even a fiery whip.
Planning for emergencies
A small crowd gathered in Collingwood Memorial Hall to discuss emergency preparedness and Civil Defence (CD).
Kathy King, emergency management advisor, began by explaining that CD is about setting up support for communities to help themselves in an emergency, with trained council staff overseeing the management.
Wayne Ricketts from the Ministry for Primary Industries’ animal welfare team then spoke about caring for animals and pets during an emergency. He recommended having a pet grab bag with food, any medications, name tags, contact numbers and cages ready to go. And he echoed Kathy’s message that the important thing is to think and plan, plan, and plan.
Make do and mend at Repair Café
Sunday saw the first Mohua Repair Café event take place at Golden Bay’s Community Centre.
CJ Webster, Tasman District Council’s education and partnerships officer, explained the purpose of the café.
“[It’s] trying to help Mohua be a really connected, healthy, caring community. Plus, it’s environmentally sound, we’re stopping stuff going to landfill and we’re stopping the throwaway culture. So, let’s repair things.”
In future the hope is to have electrical and sharpening skills on board. The intention is to host a repair café every two months at different venues. Eventually, Mohua MenzShed will house the event when their premises are set up.
Waka ama crews from Nelson, Motueka and Golden Bay met at Tata Beach last Sunday morning for the second round of the Interclub Winter Series competition.
The sea conditions were close to ideal for waka racing: Like liquid silver, the flat, calm water merged into the grey sky.
Racing got underway at around 8.45am on the 4km course, which took them out to and around Tata Islands, across Ligar Bay towards Abel Tasman Memorial before rounding a marker buoy and heading back to the beach.
After the last crew had returned to the beach at the end of the final race, paddlers, supporters and spectators warmed up with hot soup and fresh coffee.
Possibilities at “one-stop shop”
Previously the home of The Brigand and, more recently, the stylish Dada Manifesto, the TARDIS-like interior now houses a café, retail space, fashion and art gallery, a healing room, music zone and community hub. The transformation is the work of Jenny Lyn Walker, aka Aroha, who has distilled all the ingredients into Essence of Aroha Ahora [Love Now] which she describes as a “one-stop shop” – a place where community, culture, couture, care and cacao come together in a relaxed and calming space.
From starting out as a fashion designer 22 years ago, Aroha has built an impressive skill set that includes teaching, art, languages and dressmaking. “It’s been quite a journey.”
MP visits “slice of paradise”
Labour’s spokesperson for Education and Women, Hon Jan Tinetti MP, visited Golden Bay recently to see the upgrades of Te Waka Kura o Mohua/Golden Bay High School (GBHS), Collingwood Area School (CAS) and meet people in the front line of the community’s social services. The schools rebuilding projects were undertaken during her time as Education Minister in the former Labour Government.
On the first stop on the tour, at GBHS, Jan was shown around the by principal Jono Hay and teacher Anaru Mikaere. Jan then visited CAS where deputy principal Melissa Dixon, who accompanied Jan on her tour of the school, said it was “a pleasure” to host the MP.
JW CROSSWORD 297
September
Happy day of “Hacktivities”
The sun shone brightly on Hack Farm as the community came together to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of Hack ‘n Stay and The Big Hack Out.
Locals and horse enthusiasts filled the farm from 10am–4pm for an exhilarating “Open Farm” day, which featured a range of horse and animal-themed activities.
The event served to kick off the 8th annual Ride of Hope which aims to change the narrative of mental health as well as raise funds for Mohua Social Services’ outreach mental health programme.
Baerbel Hack, co-owner of Hack Farm reflected on the past decade. “Looking back, a lot has happened in ten years.”
St John stalwarts acknowledged
1 Old record replaces nothing in path to fame (6)
2 How the flu got you to keep you head down (4,3)
3 With potential for disaster, close out the night (4,5)
once found in three-miles (7)
12 Do such giraffe appendages sound doubtful? (4,5)
13 His former wife turned to salt. He went back for praise (5) 14 Hope for a war right away. It must end (5) 15 Bad score for reading at the
5 Don claps enthusiastically and the mercury takes a dive . . . (4,4)
6 . . . not like little David heading back east for duck . . . (5)
7 . . . and put down dad’s sister embraced by Edward. (7)
8 Give out recording and come last (8)
9 It’s said outsides are removed for rings (5)
16 The only way to sort a can is roll! (9)
17 You’ve been caught dear, in trouble. Take a break (8)
18 Absolutely worships but is badly soiled within (8)
20 Spotted, plain cake? (7)
22 Fighting group goes uphill and on to trouble (7)
28 End achievers from gnarly succulents in back street (7)
29 These one-celled structures need help to return and cats . . . (7)
30 . . . and dogs diet! Most doubtful (8)
31 Makes good time in a single second (6)
23 It’ll be a plus for the current driver (5)
24 Love initially soothes just like a letter does (6)
26 As an excuse, I bail out (5)
Three Hato Hone St John members from Golden Bay were acknowledged for their commitment at the 2024 Nelson & Tasman Bays Awards Ceremony at the Headingly Centre in Richmond on Saturday 7 September.
Belinda Barnes MStJ, the go-to person for Hato Hone St John in the Golden Bay Community, was awarded the 15-Year Service Bar. Sue Netto MStJ was awarded the 30-Year Service Bar. Sue commenced as a Tākaka volunteer ambulance officer in 1994 and has provided countless hours as a frontline Emergency Medical Technician. Stuart Chalmers OStJ was awarded the 50-Year Service Medal in Gold. Stu joined Hato Hone St John in Tākaka as an ambulance and events volunteer in 1972.
Bainham’s calendar girls
Challenged with how best to celebrate the milestone of 90 years of service, support and camaraderie, the Bainham branch of Rural Women came up with a uniquely commemorative calendar titled “A Slice of Life”.
With a large jump in membership since June, from 43 to 62, the calendar project has been designed to engage all members with various expertise and all hands on-deck, evolving into a significant fundraiser.
“I’m not sure we had any inkling of what this would involve,” says president Carolyn McLellan of the collaborative effort. “It is a fabulously ambitious plan and a great concept, to mark this 90th birthday with a slice of life snapshot in time.”
Bylaws for pet control
On Tuesday and Wednesday, TDC heard public submissions on draft bylaws for cat and dog management respectively. Both meetings were held in the Richmond council chamber and chaired by Golden Bay ward councillor Chris Hill.
Of the two drafts, the cat “snip and chip” bylaw has proved less contentious. It attracted a total of 152 submissions, 11 of which were heard during Tuesday’s 75-minute session.
The draft Dog Control Bylaw attracted 645 submissions, around 50 of whom spoke at Wednesday’s hearing. The topic has a history of raising hackles but, while opinions were clearly divided, mainly between dog owners and conservationists, for the most part, contributors remained respectful.
Bird’s Hill Bump to get the push
The large protrusion on State Highway 60, colloquially known as “The Bird’s Hill Bump”, is getting the push.
According to New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) regional manager Mark Owen, funding has been allocated for work at the site via the Transport Resilience Fund. “Work to repair the slip at State Highway 60 Bird’s Hill is currently in the design phase, and we hope to have this phase completed before the end of the year,” says Mark, explaining what the work is likely to involve. “At this stage, we are looking to install horizontal drainage to remove water from the slip and reinforce the slope with rock or concrete to stabilise the hillside.”
Updates on the repair project will be released as appropriate.
Development ramps up at port
Golden Bay’s resilience to natural disasters will be significantly strengthened with the imminent completion of the $12 million redevelopment of Port Tarakohe.
Apart from a new specially designed “resilience ramp” , several other improvements have been made at Port Tarakohe including fendering upgrades, four new commercial berths with floating concrete pontoons, new lighting, a new water supply, and spalling repairs to the concrete wharf. In addition, the construction of a new office and an amenities block for port users officially began last month.
The resultant draft Port Tarakohe Structure Plan should shortly be released for community feedback.
November
Bay’s artistic talent on show Whales strand on spit
The annual showcase of Golden Bay’s artistic talent continues to thrive.
Stepping into the main hall of Golden Bay High School, just prior to last Friday’s opening of Bay Art 2024, it was quickly evident that the community’s creatives are a gifted and productive bunch. Exhibits include paintings, drawings, textiles, collages, sculptures, and multimedia installations.
The winner of the Supreme Award – Anita Peters’ Bird Woman – was named in the judge’s final announcement. “Scale is not everything in art, but emotion is. It captivated all of us,” said Neville of the small wooden carving. “We all wanted to take it home.”
School celebrates its 150th
Past pupils and friends and guests gathered at the 150th Jubilee weekend celebration marking the years since 1874 when East Tākaka School opened.
School alumnus Robin Manson gave an account of the school’s history, its grounds, staff, rolls, changes and restorations over the past 150 years. Three distinguished elderly gentlemen, all from the same 1940s class then cut the anniversary cake before high afternoon tea was served.
The next morning, a service was held at the historic East Tākaka Church next door. “The celebration of 150 years is a great time where past, present and future have all come together,” said Joyce Wyliie who conducted the service.
Bay’s sporting stars shine
Golden Bay’s sporting stars shone brightly on Saturday night at a celebration of their achievements.
The evening began with guest speakers – New Zealand basketball legend Phil Jones, and Nelson Giants coach and Sky Sports presenter Huw Beynon – entertaining the audience. The nominees in each of the 10 award categories were then announced before the winners stepped up to the podium where the award sponsor presented their trophies. The Supreme Award was won by rugby superstar Quinten Strange. An auction of donated auction followed, with lots coming under Craig Taylor’s hammer, and all proceeds going towards a major upgrade of Rockville Pool.
The stranding of 37 pilot whales on the shallow intertidal flats of Farewell Spit triggered a multi-day rescue mission during which the whales restranded, and were refloated, several times.
Volunteer rescuers were quickly on the scene to douse the wale with water but, with one of the daily high tides coming after dark, the whales were left to fend for themselves from dusk until the following day.
On the fourth day the whales were refloated on the early afternoon tide and with the tide ebbing, the pod of 19 survivors was reported to be swimming in the deeper water beyond the shelf edge, and heading south.
Blaze fans fire concerns
Firefighters’ rapid and co-ordinated response stopped a potentially catastrophic scrub fire in its tracks.
The fire broke out in the afternoon at a property in Onekakā, after strong winds fanned the embers of a rubbish burn-off carried out four days previously, and set a three-hectare block of dry gorse ablaze.
Shortly after Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) was alerted, crews from Collingwood, Tākaka and Upper Tākaka brigades arrived to battle the blaze. Less than half an hour later, three helicopters with monsoon buckets were on their way to the scene, and by 8.30pm, combined efforts on the ground and in the air had extinguished the fire.
Christmas comes to town December
On warm, sunny Saturday morning, the Santa Parade came to town delivering Christmas spirit and heralding the start of the holiday season.
The impressive fleet of floats was matched by a large crowd who lined both sides of Tākaka’s Commercial Street.
Bringing up the rear, the day’s leading man – Santa – cruised past in his “sleigh”, accompanied by Mrs Claus.
“It was awesome,” said Tākaka resident Rachel Edmondson, whose three-year-old son Owen gave his own verdict on the best bits: “Tractors, Santa, Elfs.”
As the parade finished, Tākaka Citizens Band set up on the Village Green where they performed a medley of Christmas hits.
Whether you are planning a holiday, hosting guests at your home, or tackling some DIY projects, taking some simple precautions can help ensure a safe and enjoyable summer.
If you are expecting a full house when the family comes to visit, avoid running additional multiplugs and extension cords, and plug any unused outlets with safety covers if small children are coming to stay.
If you must use extension cords, always use an RCD (Residual Current Device), inspect the cords regularly, and make sure the leads are rated for outdoor use if using them outside. It is important to keep electronics and electrical leads far away from sprinklers and pools. Water and electricity don’t mix, so be sure to keep them apart. It is also important to remember that extension cords should not be used for a long-term or permanent solution.
If you plan to refresh your outdoor area or garden, be mindful of overhead power lines when working with ladders or scaffolding to ensure they don’t come into contact. If you are digging or planting, take a moment to consider where underground power cables are located, and avoid planting large trees near overhead power lines.
Flying toys like drones and kites are a lot of fun. However, if they accidentally fly into a substation or power lines, it can cause an electrical explosion, fire, or electrocution. This may not only damage your aircraft but can cause a power cut to you, your neighbours, or the greater community.
If your flying toys, a ball or frisbee, become entangled in power lines or lands in one of our substations, please call 0800 508 100 for assistance. Our team is trained to enter these facilities safely and can help you retrieve any items.
Have fun and play safely this summer!
BAY ORGANICS
SOL MORGAN
With the hot weather over the summer period many crop and ornamental plants are prone to insect pest invasions. Stress is the biggest cause and during hot dry periods a lack of water limits plants capacity to remain strong and healthy. So aim to provide adequate water, either by hand-watering early morning, sprinkler system, or even easier – an automated irrigation system. Having enough nutrition, (along with water) is the other main reason plants become susceptible to insect pests. Weekly applications of liquid fertiliser to the soil with a watering can, or directly to the leaves with the use of a sprayer. Home-made liquid brews can be made using pernicious weeds like couch grass, convolvulus, dock root, thistle and yarrow, along with comfrey leaves and stinging nettle. This will need sieving for spraying. Supplementary feeding with compost, worm castings, and blood and bone also provides a boost – giving plants more nutrition to withstand pests. Having a garden full of plant diversity makes it harder for pests to find a suitable host, and attracts beneficial insects which help keep everything in check. So mix up crops, with herbs and flowers for best results. This applies in the vegetable garden, orchard and ornamental garden too. However, sometimes pest invasions get the better of us. Some common summer pests that often prevail in Golden Bay gardens include
Preventing summer pests
aphid, cabbage white butterfly, psyllid, green vegetable bugs and whitefly on vegetables and passion-vine hopper, scale insect and lemon tree borer on fruit.
Caterpillar pests like cabbage white butterfly larvae are easily managed by spraying the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) on susceptible crops like brassicas and berry-fruit. Green vegetable bugs can cause quite a lot of damage to the seeds of beans, corn and tomatoes and often distort the flesh too. Controlling them is tricky and the best method is going on a bug hunt with a jar of soapy water to drop them into. Spraying with an oil spray like neem in the early life stage, (or instar) can help. Aphid, passion-vine hopper, scale insect and whitefly are all sap sucking insects that can also be kept under control with regular oil sprays. Hothouses are prone to these pests. Aim to maximise airflow
by opening doors and windows. Natures Way Organic Citrus, Veggie and Ornamental Spray is a combination of natural pyrethrum and oil which is effective against these pests too. Spraying is best done early morning or evening when bees are not about. Some products are supplied in a handy spray bottle. Psyllid proliferates during hot temperatures. Fine insect cloth can be used to prevent them getting to your crops, which include tomatoes, potatoes and tamarillos. Otherwise the previously mentioned oil sprays can work. Many of these pests attack the green leaves, so ensure you spray underneath. Scale insects also suck sap from stems of plants, so the whole tree or shrub needs to be treated. Taking time to wander around your garden observing is a beneficial exercise for the health of your crops and ornamentals, and therapeutic too.
GARDEN JOBS FOR JANUARY
In the vegetable garden, keep sowing and planting for ongoing supply of crops like carrots, dwarf beans and salads. Plant long growing winter crops like leeks and brassicas. Try to find a shady spot to pop in your winter cabbages, etc. Harvest garlic, shallots and onions when flopped. Clean up by removing the outer sheath and trimming roots, then hang in a cool dry spot. Keep mounding potatoes and mulching too, along with yams, (oca) and the rest of the garden to help conserve moisture. Weeds can be used as mulch or make compost with them. Train climbers like beans, tomatoes and cucumbers up bamboo poles, builder’s mesh or string lines. Remember to thin your carrots, beetroot and other root crops like parsnip. Mound up soil around top of the root afterwards and water. Stake some plants for seed saving like lettuce, rocket or coriander.
In the hothouse, propagate winter seedlings. Provide extra shade with a cloth covering if gets too hot.
Cut back herbs and harvest leaves for drying.
The orchard harvest has begun with plums, early apples, peaches and berries. “Summer prune” stone and pip fruits for shape and future productivity. In addition, trim grape leaves back to five or six after the last fruiting bunch. Tip fig growing points to stimulate better fruit development. Spray lime sulphur on fruit to deter rust, powdery mildew, as well as scale, mites and borers. Insert trichodowels (Vinevax) into trees affected by silverleaf fungus.
Mow lawn on mulch setting. Prune perennials after flowering. Trim hedges and prune large trees. Chip prunings for mulching ornamental or fruits.
PLANTING CALENDAR
Sow for transplanting: All seeds 12 and 16 December. Leeks, spring onions and leafy greens (celery, spinach, spinach beet, silver beet, lettuce, endive, cabbages, kale, cauliflower, broccoli) (15 and 25 December). Flowers, eg polyanthus (13 and 22 -23 December). Sow direct: All seeds 12 and 16 December. Salads, spring onions (15 and 25 December). Corn, zucchini, pumpkin/squash and cucumbers, French and climbing beans and peas (16-18 and 27 December). Carrots, beetroot, radish, parsnip (19-21 December). Flowers, eg viola (13 and 22-23 December). Plant: Best during 1-11 and 28-31 December. Salad
Green vegetable bug infestation on a capsicum plant. Photo: Sol Morgan.
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Review: The Problem with People
ALISTAIR HUGHES
The Problem with People begins with the prolific but aesthetically-challenged Colm Meaney as Ciáran, looking after his ailing father, Fergus (Des Keough), in a remote Irish cottage. Although not as close to death as he claims, the old man makes a last request of his son: that he contact his estranged American cousin Barry, and bring him back to Ireland to resolve the generations-old feud within their fractured family.
A great personal favourite of this reviewer is the 1983 comedy Local Hero, which sees a Texas oil executive sent to a tiny Scottish fishing village to negotiate buying the area to set up a new refinery.
So when I heard that this film concerned the misadventures of a New York property magnate travelling to a tiny Irish village I wondered how blatant the retreading of this hallowed ground might be. But fortunately, one of the smartest things The Problem with People does is attack that issue head on – the whole reason that Barry, (Paul Reiser) agrees to make this trip is because Local Hero is his favourite film, and one scene even shows him dreamily watching it in his apartment, as the familiar Mark Knopfler score fills the room.
So, with that out of the way, The Problem with People is free to do its own thing. Barry’s arrival in the village goes surprisingly well, delighting a rejuvenated Fergus and charming a pub full of locals as the two cousins bond.
Fergus holds court with the story of the how the family came to be divided, his voice-over embellished with a beautiful animated flashback which is a highlight of the film. It certainly moistens the eye of many a listener and, at this point, everything is progressing so smoothly that you might be wondering where any narrative tension might come from. But conflict arises soon enough, straight after Fergus’s death when a horrified Ciáran finds his father’s will and realises newly rediscovered cousin Barry has been left half of everything.
This so-far charming “fish out of water” fable quickly degenerates into a rapidly escalating new feud between the cousins, ignited when Ciáran attempts to cheat Barry out of his inheritance.
Despite repeated warnings that someone is going to get hurt, a football match becomes a riot where everyone’s historic grievances appear to be aired simultaneously and violently, resulting in our two leads ending up in hospital.
Unfortunately, they must share a ward room, so hostilities continue from their sick beds – at least initially.
For a film accused by many reviewers of being cliched I can’t claim to have seen any of the plot twists coming, particularly the last development which might finally reunite the warring family for good.
Paul Reiser has also co-written the screenplay, but shows a talent for evoking the uniquely Irish sense of humour which permeates events. He also continues to be a very watchable actor despite his most famous turn on Mad About You having taken place two decades ago. Meanwhile, Colm Meaney could perform his part in his sleep, but fortunately resists the temptation to do so.
Other characters fare less well, but there are enough of them to keep things flowing and Lucianne McEvoy as Ciáran’s ex-wife Fiona is a welcome voice of reason and sanity.
The Problem with People surprises and charms more than you might expect, and will leave you with a wry smile on your face as we head toward festive gatherings striving to keep peace among our own families.
It screens tomorrow at 8pm, and then the Village Theatre’s post-Christmas programme is geared towards families with Moana 2, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 and Paddington in Peru. Perfect viewing particularly if our current run of summer weather should finally run out for a while.
Screening Schedule – 27 December to 12 January
Fri 27 4:00
Sonic The Hedgehog 3 (PG)
8:00 Moana 2 (PG)
Sat 28 4:00 Sonic The Hedgehog 3 (PG)
8:00 The Problem with People (M)
Sun 29 2:00 NT Live: Fleabag (R16)
4:00 Taki Rua Theatre: Breaking Barriers (E) 8:00 There's Still Tomorrow (M) (subtitles)
Wed 1 January New Year's Day THEATRE CLOSED: Happy New Year!
Thu 2 January THEATRE CLOSED
Fri 3 4:00 Moana 2 (PG) Final 8:00 Sonic The Hedgehog 3 (PG)
Sat 4 4:00 Paddington in Peru (PG)
8:00 There’s Still Tomorrow (M) (subtitles)
Sun 5 4:00 Mufasa: The Lion King (PG)
8:00 The Problem with People (M) Final
Wed 8 5:30 Sonic The Hedgehog 3 (PG)
Thu 9 8:00 Taki Rua Theatre: Breaking Barriers (E) Final
Fri 10 4:00 Mufasa: The Lion King (PG) 8:00 Kraven the Hunter (R16) Sat 11 4:00 Sonic The Hedgehog 3 (PG) 8:00 Paddington in Peru (PG) Sun 12 4:00 There's Still Tomorrow (M) Final 8:00 Better Man (R13)
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THIS PROGRAMME:
KIDS/FAMILY MOVIES: We continue to bring you more kids/family films on this programme with Paddington in Peru & Mufasa: The Lion King. See programme for details.
WET DAY MOVIES: If it’s raining we will be screening a 2pm movie for the kids on Monday, Tuesday & Thursdays starting from 23 December. See website for details on the day.
Movie Descriptions
BETTER MAN (R13) British Musical/True Story 2hr15m
Based on the true story of the meteoric rise, dramatic fall & remarkable resurgence of British pop superstar Robbie Williams. Uniquely told from Robbie's perspective, capturing his signature wit.
MUFASA: THE LION KING (PG) Kids/Family/Drama/Adventure
Told in flashbacks, this followup to the 2019 blockbuster introduces Mufasa as an orphaned cub, lost & alone until he meets a sympathetic lion named Taka – the heir to a royal bloodline. 2hrs.
PADDINGTON IN PERU (PG) Kids/Family/Comedy/Adventure
The third film in the series follows Paddington and the Brown family as they visit Aunt Lucy in Peru, but a mystery sends them to the Amazon rainforest and up the Peruvian mountains. 1hr50m.
TAKI RUA THEATRE: BREAKING BARRIERS (E) 1hr20m
Whetū Fala draws on her personal connections to pay tribute to actors, writers, producers, directors, staff, governors, and te reo Māori advocates who have helped shape it over the last 40 years.
LIVE: FLEABAG: Sunday 29 December @ 2pm. Due to its popularity, this NT Live recorded theatre is making its way back to us for an Encore screening. See programme for details.
KRAVEN THE HUNTER (R16) Action/Adventure 2hrs
Action-packed, standalone story of Marvel's most iconic villains. Kraven, a man whose complex relationship with his ruthless gangster father, starts him down a path of vengeance.
NT LIVE: FLEABAG (R16) Live Recorded Performance 1hr30m
The one-woman show that inspired the BBC’s TV series. With family & friendships under strain & a guinea pig café struggling to keep afloat, Fleabag suddenly finds herself with nothing to lose.
SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3 (PG) Kids/Family/Adventure 1hr50m
Returning to the big screen in their most thrilling adventure yet Sonic, Knuckles & Tails reunite against Shadow, a mysterious villain with powers unlike anything they have faced before.
THERE’S STILL TOMORROW (M) Italian Drama/Comedy/War
In post-war Italy, the family of typical housewife Delia is in turmoil. The arrival of a mysterious letter, however, will ignite Delia's courage to face her abusive husband and imagine a better future. 2hrs.
BOOK REVIEW
by Katie Lavers
ORBITAL
by Samantha Harvey
Aroha Spa: a decade of wellness
ROSA VOLZ
As 2025 approaches, Aroha Spa is gearing up to celebrate its 10th anniversary of providing holistic healing and wellness to the local community. Founded by Berdina Brinkman in 2015, Aroha Spa began as Nikau Juice Bar and Health Spa, transforming from a site housing the Pōhara mini-golf course into a health spa offering a wide range of treatments and healing therapies. Since 2015 the spa has upscaled to comprise of core staff, with an additional influx of staff over summer months.
Told from the perspective of six astronauts aboard the International Space Station, this story switches perspective with each human revealing their intimate and relatable thoughts from their unique position, looking down on the Earth. The novella is divided into chapters based on the 16 earth orbits the space station makes in a 24 hour period. This year's Booker Prize Winner sets a new record in its scope, encapsulating big ideas in the second shortest book to win the title.
What we deem important and necessary on Earth, seems very different when viewed from the perspective of space, where a typhoon wreaking death and destruction below is more of a passing curiosity for the astronauts. Daylight views of the planet show no trace of human existence, and there are no individual countries, just a swirling interconnected landmass.
There is the inevitable existentialism of human existence, the pondering of our loneliness, possible futures, and the arbitrariness of countries separated by lines on a map when in reality we are all one. Between these well-trodden, if eloquently framed ideas, are the imperfections in the character’s personal lives. Chie, the Japanese scientist understands she is part of the military and scientific community that also cost her grandparents their lives in Hiroshima; another hides his growing tumour from doctors to avoid forcing himself and two colleagues to vacate the space station early. Yet another admits to himself that although he loves his wife, he would rather stay in space given the choice. Giving air to these guilty thoughts perhaps resonates more for the reader than the bigger themes, where the self-awareness and pragmatic reality of our human lives, along with the continual individual human drive for expansion are shown.
However interested we might be in the cosmonaut’s lives, the main character that looms large is really the Earth. Between the whimsical metaphors of marbles and pearls, I would also credit Harvey with capturing the magnitude of our planet with flawless description. In contrast to the cinematic visions, she splices the mundane, for example where she brings the absurdity of the squabbling nation states to our attention via the Russians banning the other astronaut’s from sharing their facilities: “Because of ongoing political disputes please use your own national toilet." Then later saying “ We can’t be divided, this is the truth. We won't be because we can’t be. We drink each other’s recycled urine. We breathe each other’s recycled air.”
Spaceman Shaun’s postcard (of the Baroque painting Las Meninas), which starts as a simple symbol reminding him of the first time he met his wife in an Art History class, takes on layers of meaning as the novella progresses. He ponders: “How the dog is the only thing in the painting that isn’t slightly laughable or trapped within a matrix of vanities. The only thing in the painting that could be called vaguely free.” This Leaves us wondering if, in the end, we see Harvey’s own self-awareness at the ambition of thought contained in these packed pages.
Blissfully short and well encapsulated, if you aren’t prone to agoraphobia, and love pondering the nature and purpose of existence, the weaving of the poetic with the profane, then this book is for you.
Check out our website: www.gbweekly.co.nz
In addition to her work at the spa, Berdina started the Universal School of Health and Awareness (USHA) in 2018, where she facilitates workshops and training sessions focused on various health modalities. In 2025 Berdina will run sevenday retreats aimed at aspiring practitioners looking to expand their skills and individuals seeking to begin their journey in holistic health.
Berdina's recent travels, including a month spent in Peru, have extended her knowledge to embrace traditional Inca healing techniques such as herbal medicine. This knowledge enhances her approach as a holistic health practitioner, which considers the whole person in the healing process.
Berdina tells The GB Weekly that Aroha Spa is committed to using quality products, sourcing local organic items for their signature Aroha Spa facial. The spa offers an annual membership program for just $99, which entitles members to significant discounts on treatments and products. Those who sign up before the end of 2024 will receive a 25 per cent discount.
Aroha Spa is planning an open day in the new year, featuring show-and-tell sessions and mini treatment “testers” for everyone to enjoy. For those interested in experiencing holistic pulsing, the spa invites the community members to book a free 10-minute session. Appointments can be made by calling the spa and leaving a message, or through the contact form on their website.
As Aroha Spa embarks on its next decade, it embraces the philosophy, "Let your food be your medicine, your mind be your creator, and your feelings your guidance system.” With a strong commitment to quality and community wellness, Aroha Spa welcomes clients of all ages to join in celebrating a decade of health, healing, and growth. “We want to extend our heartfelt
Berdina Brinkman outside Aroha Spa in Pōhara.
Photo: Rosa Volz.
gratitude to our clients. We could not be here without your support,” says Berdina.
Kiwi and US duo team up
Nina Lane and Bryan Owens' musical collaboration began in 1998 with Bryan arriving in NZ from Ireland with an Irish fiddler. The duo teamed up and began songwriting and national touring, co-producing Nina’s debut album which promptly sold out. Two years later they married and moved to USA in search of more musical inspiration and a world folk quartet formed called Sprygg.
Concluding their 20-year stint overseas the duo have resettled back in New Zealand and this January the duo will be touring Nina’s latest album Holding the Flame
Nina is a singer songwriter guitarist. Musically she can only be described as a Kiwi original artist in this age of soundalikes. As a lyricist she draws out the most delicate and joyful aspects of life writing about the shifting sands of love, intriguing people and places from her travels, nurturing the earth and the magnetic pull of her birthplace Aotearoa, calling her back home.
“A musician of dedicated quality and intellect,” Paul Ubana Jones.
Bryan Owens is originally from Maryland, USA. His music awareness began with his grandmother's collection of Elvis Presley memorabilia and listening to 70’s pop-country music on his parent’s radio.
Travelling with an acoustic guitar through Europe, Ireland and the South Pacific he gained a deep appreciation for traditional folk music. En route, he learnt to play the Irish bouzouki, clarinet, mandolin and violin. Bryan has worked as a professional accompanist with ensembles from folk-dance to bluegrass to pop-rock bands.
Catch the duo at The Mussel Inn on Wednesday 15 January.
The return of Young Moon
PRIZE DRAW
Win a double pass to see Young Moon at the Mussel Inn on Saturday 25 January.
To enter, simply send an email with the title “Young Moon" to: admin@gbweekly.co.nz
Entries close on Sunday 5 January 2025
The electrifying sounds of Young Moon will be heard again in Golden Bay next month. Their highly anticipated return promises to be a night to remember, filled with the band's signature blend of soulful melodies and high-energy performances.
Hailing from San Francisco, but now based in Nelson, Young Moon is the indie-dream-pop project of Trevor Montgomery, who is relishing his return to the Mussel Inn. “I can think of few places on this planet that I would rather be than Golden Bay in deep summer.”
At the heart of Young Moon's music is the theme of healing through creativity. Each band member brings a unique story of how music has been a transformative force in their lives. For Trevor, music has been a lifeline through his struggles with addiction and recovery. Bandmates, Anna Moore (keyboards) and Emma Toy (drums), are practicing music and art therapists respectively, and met Trevor through the Te Tau Ihu music and arts community. They share Trevor’s innate understanding of how rhythm, melody and creativity can act as a powerful healing force. Together, the trio create performances that are not just concerts but shared experiences of healing and connection, where the power of music is palpable.
Mussel Inn audiences will also be familiar with Jocee Tuck, the multi-instrumentalist and vocal virtuoso, and one of Aotearoa’s most original indie-folk songwriters, who will be opening for Young Moon.
Young Moon perform at the Mussel Inn on Saturday 25 January 2025. Limited tickets are available now, via undertheradar.co.nz
Kensington Court can tailor a solution to fit your needs
Discover your perfect retirement oasis at Kensington Court Village where we have a vibrant community with support when required. Please call now to discuss available options.
• Sunny modern apartment
• Cosy studio living
• Well appointed kitchen
Underfloor heating
Car park on site
Optional home help
• Tailored packages to suit your specific requirements
Contact our Facility Manager, Angela, on 027 474 4550 to arrange a viewing
T: 03 547 9444
E: manager.kensington@ ultimatecare.co.nz
18 McMahon Street, Stoke, Nelson 7011
Exploring the alchemy of journaling
Dr Stephanie Dale, founder of the International Wellbeing-through-writing Institute, recently facilitated a short “Journaling for the Brave” workshop at Tākaka library.
Stephanie was living “in the dust” of southwestern Australia when invited by the Department of Primary Industries to run a writing workshop for people living remotely. In 2014 she founded “The Write Road”, a how-to write initiative for outback dwellers. “Thirteen people came out of the dust,” said Stephanie.
Her work in the outback continued for many years during which she became intrigued by the transformative power of writing. She then undertook a PhD on the relationship between writing and wellbeing. “And I figured out how journaling is the art of emptying ourselves of something we are holding.”
As an example, if feeling anxious or stressed prior to attending a meeting, one can journal those feelings out, then rewrite the script of the desired outcome,” says Stephanie.
“Every day we have encounters that trigger feelings in our bodies… We manifest physical pain due to the holding of old stories. There is a breathlessness there.”
After 10 years of working with over 3000 people, she is convinced “the body knows”. Although the alchemy of journaling can empty the mind, it doesn’t get to the body. By giving the mind respite, the body will give a clear message.
Participants were instructed to write whatever was in their heads for two minutes, which was followed by a guided meditation, going inside the body to locate “the holding place”, and then focusing inward on the heart. Sharing afterwards, experiences proved similar within the group, with the mind described as “chaotic, harsh, judgemental, busy and organising”. Tuning into the body was found to be “anchored, calm, more in touch”, while writing from the heart was “a lot lighter and more loving”.
“Journaling takes you into the past, but you cannot stay there. You must come back to the world you live in,” said Stephanie. She invited everyone to write down three things they were looking forward to doing later in the day. “This brings us back to the day we have, rather than what has gone.”
Embodied journaling is the term used to describe this method of wellness-through-writing. Stephanie shared that she now bypasses her mind and writes from her body, to clarify thoughts and solve problems in order to move forward through difficult situations.
“Longing is the motivating force… It takes enormous courage to move forward, because it creates change. Things are kept in a certain place in all of us until we act on longing.”
For those wanting to learn more, Stephanie’s book Write Your Way Home: A Well-Being-through-writing Guidebook is available online through Amazon. There is also a copy available at Tākaka library. Visit www.iwwi.com.au
ACROSS
1 Troublemaker found in washing machine? (8)
5 Publicly supporting a policy contrary to the party line created some gaffes. (3-7)
12 Cover tracks, hiding patent. (5)
13 Yes, insect destroyed something you really need. (9)
14 Grasp part of cereal in outskirts of London. (5)
15 Helps at modified range. (3,4)
17 Sort of thing used when unable to get a clear view. (9)
18 Total success, utilising mathematics principally. (3)
19 Leading manufacturer gets no suitable backing for design. (5)
21 Headless chicken to attempt record. (5)
23 Life was holding slim pickings. (3)
25 Would 43 buy this deck for a fortune? (5)
27 Catch troop leader before the French sting. (6)
28 Drug one swallowed after brief surgical procedure. (6)
30 Removing bald head causes a condition in which breathing is difficult! (7)
31 Intriguingly grooved urn found above the surface of the earth. (10)
33 Disturbed at bunk size found in Central Asia? (10)
36 Burn box containing eastern military leader! (7)
37 Presides over furniture. (6)
38 Worker on short holiday is free. (6)
40 Grass found in the water’s edge. (5)
41 Even warpath can be pertinent. (3)
42 Unusually endless uptake is not functioning. (5)
44 Start one book right over. (5)
45 Reveal route , except the start and finish. (3)
47 Foils holy disturbance with little intelligencce. (9)
50 Drawn in exaggeration? (7)
52 Colour used to gain access to the vehicle, reportedly? (5)
53 Fifty mid-air parrots get violent immediately. (4,1,4)
54 Bearing in ship’s storage creates condition in which a vessel is likely to sink. (5)
55 End user not prepared for subdued colours. (10)
56 One of repeated executions to a great degree is maintained just for bikers. (8)
DOWN
2 Look up direction to follow great migratory birds. (5)
3 An element sung badly in poorly pitched tent. (8)
4 Talk about number again? (7)
5 Fertile tract of any Syrian Islamic State Leaders. (5)
6 Unconstrained middle-sized queen under rooftop is after loud whiteware? (6-7)
7 Quiet time to support, for example, journey’s end in African country. (5)
8 Air miles often tend to create autonomy. (4,13)
9 Bird goes up under pigtail and causes anxiety. (5)
10 Fiendishly trap me on to sliding from one note to the next. (10)
11 Enlivens with energy in endurance climbing. (8)
16 Full of face, I get egg broken in place of abandoned trunks. (4-7,6)
20 Document of ownership, belonging to the peerage, bridging Scottish river, (5,4)
22 Vintage chardonnay became a winner in the end. (4)
24 Me and you with little Henry in blue or pilot ,for example. (5)
26 Let sweetheart in rave, to give some geological feature. (9)
29 Terrified by strange looking nicks in carpet. (5-8)
32 Met performances with love for each alto. (5)
34 Tie down in a production across the country. (10)
35 Grade offensive smell. (4)
36 Donkey tilts over choir attire. (8)
39 Room over hospital left middlemen physically very capable. (8)
43 Tipsy chicken posseses paranormal ability. (7)
46 Develop wedding accessory (5)
48 Rough towel for a fledgling. (5)
49 Piles earth where a skip empties in the end. (5)
51 A slab lifted to reveal wood. (5)
RONNIE SHORT
Dr Stephanie Dale with her self-published book, Writing Your Way Home gave a mini workshop at the library. Photo: Ronnie Short.
MOVIE QUIZ 2024
WIN FREE TICKETS
to The Village Theatre!
A family pass (two adults plus two children) is up for grabs in our end-of-year quiz. Email your answers with subject heading “Movie Quiz” to: admin@gbweekly.co.nz
Include your name, phone number and address Entries close on Sunday 5 January.
The winner will be drawn from all correct entries. All questions relate to events and releases in 2024.
1. In what year was Tākaka's Village Theatre established?
2. Which character will be the main subject of a new Lord of the Rings film due out in 2026?
3. What’s the latest title in the Mad Max series?
4. Which actor plays The Fall Guy?
5. At what festival is the Golden Nikau awarded?
6. Which actor played Lee Smith in Civil War?
7. What award was bestowed on Meryl Streep at Cannes Film Festival?
8. In which classic 1940s film screened at the Village Theatre do the main characters part on a railway platform?
9. Which two actors get blown around while chasing tornadoes?
10. What is the current price of children’s (age 5-15) ticket for the Village Theatre?
11. Why did the voice of Darth Vader fall silent?
12. What was the title of Woody Allen’s 50th film?
13. In what decade was the film We Were Dangerous set?
14. Which Kiwi actor made their directorial debut with a documentary film?
15. Which NZ 1994 classic movie celebrated its 30th anniversary with a screening at NZIFF?
16. Which film surpassed The Lion King to become the highest-grossing animated film of all time?
17. Who was the subject of a Super/Man documentary?
18. In what film does “Paddy” Finucane take to the skies?
19. Where is Michael Bond’s ursine creation having new adventures?
20. What is the first film scheduled to screen at the Village Theatre in 2025?
World class music from Niko Ne Zna
Niko Ne Zna is a world class world music extravaganza. A staple of the New Zealand festival circuit and
at home and more recently in Australia. A hot and spicy taste of the old countries right here in the capital of New Zealand. Playing captivating original music as well as classic songs from the Romani-soaked Balkan States, Niko Ne Zna’s hypnotic melodies and wild infectious rhythms will set even the most rhythmically challenged moving and grooving! "We're excited to be heading down to your area as we haven't been for many years." At the Mussel Inn, Saturday 4 January, $20 on the door. Photo: Submitted.
Tues & Fri 10am - 4pm plus when sign is out Rm15, GB WorkCentre, 84 Commercial St for all your stitching needs
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from all the team at GBCH 8am – 8pm 7 days 13 Willow Street, Takaka www.freshchoice.co.nz Season’s Greetings From
Please note a change in our hours over the holiday period:
If you have an accident or are in need of urgent care Urgent Care appointments only: 21 December 2024 – 20 January 2025
Please note additional surcharge applies
Open again for appointments as normal from: 21 January 2025
Call us on 0800 PhysEx (749 739) for further information or to book your appointment.
Yours in Health The PhysEx Team
USEFUL CONTACT DETAILS
Stray cats and kittens: Golden Bay Animal Welfare Society
Phone Carol Wells 03 525 9494, 8am-5pm
Wandering dogs: Tasman District Council Dog Control – all hours – 03 543 8400
Injured dog or cat: RSC Vet Clinic – all hours – 03 525 8011. You will not be responsible for the costs of caring for a found injured animal.
Native birds: DOC hotline 0800 362 468
Injured birds/baby birds: RSC Vet Clinic as first call – all hours – 03 525 8011
CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR CLINIC HOURS
25th December No Clinic
Please call our after-hours service on 03 525 0060 or 111 if an emergency 26th December 10am - 1pm (Urgent Care walk-in clinic)
27th, 30th, 31st December
Usual opening hours 8.30am - 5pm 1st and 2nd January 10am - 1pm (Urgent Care walk-in clinic) 3rd January
Usual opening hours 8.30am - 5pm 4th and 5th January 10am - 1pm (Urgent Care walk-in clinic)
From 6th January
Normal clinic hours (8.30am - 5pm) and Weekend & Public Holiday Urgent Care walk-in clinics (10am - 1pm)
PAYMENT IS REQUIRED ON THE DAY
Please note: After-hours rates apply for weekends and public holidays.
GRAZING available mid-January. Ph Nathan 027 226 0488. LEARN to fly with Golden Bay Flying Club. Email: zktkagbfc@ gmail.com
NARCOTICS Anonymous Golden Bay meeting, Mondays 6pm, 42 Commercial Street, hall behind church. All welcome. GB Animal Welfare Society Inc (ex-SPCA). Ph Carol Wells 525 9494, 8am-5pm weekdays.
CLASSIFIEDS
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.
GB WEEKLY: Stitch ‘n Sew, Tākaka is our agent or you can email us: admin@gbweekly.co.nz (preferred). Office hours are Monday-Wednesday, 9am-5pm. Our office re-opens Monday 6 January. Ph 027 525 8679.
HEALTH & WELLBEING / Hauora
APOTHECARY, medical herbalist, iridology, reflexology, reiki. Lisa Williams, ph 027 451 9797, www.goldenbayiridology.com
KINESIOLOGY. Energetic kinesiology. A holistic approach to health and wellbeing. For an appointment/inquiry ph or text
Mark Bonar 027 575 359.
MASSAGE. Ph Willem 022 134 1726.
NATURAL Nailcare Studio: High quality, non-toxic nailcare, using the Dazzle Dry polish system. Specialising in pedicure services. Ph or text Amy 020 4079 0646.
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.
ARBORIST, qualified, ph Jack Stevens 021 211 5580. ARCHITECT, registered. Please phone Ben from Allinson Architecture, 020 471 2479.
ARCHITECT services. Building and resource consents. Residential, commercial and industrial. Chris Pyemont Architects, ph 021 0278 4729.
BUILDER: GL Building Tākaka. Renovations, alterations, extensions, new builds, decks and all your repair and maintenance needs. Ph Grant 027 485 5987.
BUILDER: Alistair Middleton, Homes Created Ltd. Renovations, new builds, decks, etc. Ph 027 654 0316, al.homescreated@ gmail.com
CARS wanted. Will pick up for free (some conditions apply). Motueka Auto Parts. Ph 03 528 9576.
CERTIFIED Passive House designer. New buildings/alterations/ EnerPhit. Ph 021 211 1339.
CHIMNEY cleaning, handyman. Ph Ry South 022 513 3947. CHIMNEY sweep and firebox maintenance. GB Chimney Cleaning ph 027 458 7679.
CLEANER. AJ's Cleaning Services. Visit ajscleaning.co.nz for more information.
COURIERS. TG Couriers delivering between Golden Bay and Nelson five days a week. Ph 027 717 7188.
FLORIST. Place your order online www.goldenbayflowers. co.nz or ph 027 758 1138. Teresa Brough Designer Florist. FREEVIEW TV, radio, HiFi, WiFi, electronics. Ph 027 246 2432. GOLDEN BAY DIGGER HIRE 1.7 tonne. Ph 027 713 0684.
MOHUA Glass and Glazing. Ph 027 410 9105, mohuaglass@ gmail.com
ONEKAKA Production Unit. Film dollies, cranes, lighting and more. Ph Hamish 027 484 8602.
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 Shane 027 647 4913.
SEWING SERVICE, NEEDLES, THREADS, WOOL, BEADS. Stitch ‘n Sew ph 525 8177.
STUMP grinding specialist. Tree care and property maintenance. Ph Carl 027 263 5353.
FIREWOOD, good selection. Ph Bay Firewood 027 769 6348. AUTOMOTIVE, marine and deep cycle batteries in stock now at Steve Prince Auto Electrical. Ph 027 616 5211.
EATING OUT / Kai wahi kē
ANATOKI SALMON fishing and café. Catch your own lunch or order from the menu. Open every day from 9am-4pm. www. anatokisalmon.co.nz
COLLINGWOOD TAVERN. Open 7 days, 11am till late. Catering and large group bookings available. Ph 524 8160.
COURTHOUSE CAFÉ, Collingwood. Open 7 days, 8am-3pm. Pizza night every Saturday, dine in or takeaway, 5-7.30pm Ph 524 8194.
COURTYARD CAFÉ, Tākaka. Open 7 days, 7am-5pm. Also, bookings for dinner. Ph 525 8681.
DANGEROUS KITCHEN. Open Wednesday-Saturday, 9am8pm. 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.
ESSENCE of AROHA AHORA, 90 Commercial St, Tākaka. Fresh frequency food and divine delectable drinks. Vegan, vegetarian, GF, DF. Open everyday. Ph 525 6111.
GOOD AS GOLD CAFÉ, Tākaka. Open Monday-Friday, 7am4pm. Ph 525 8193.
LANGFORD STORE, Bainham. Perfect scones and more. Open Saturday-Thursday, 9am-5pm. Ph 524 8228.
MOLLY B’S, Pōhara. Open everyday from 11am. Salt and Soil open everyday from 8am. Ph 525 7678.
EATING OUT / Kai wahi kē
NIKAU BAR AND CAFÉ, Pōhara. Open 7 days, 8.30am to late. Bookings ph 03 970 3992.
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. THE WHOLEMEAL CAFÉ. Open 7.30am-3pm daily. TOTO'S CAFÉ PIZZA. Open Saturdays and Sundays, weather permitting, 11am-4pm. Updates on Facebook and Instagram. Ph 03 970 7934, totoscafegallery@gmail.com
CHURCH SERVICES ON SUNDAYS
GOLDEN Bay Anglican Parish warmly invites you to join them on Sunday, 10am at Takaka or 4.45pm at Collingwood (starting with a cuppa). Fellowship gatherings (fellowship, songs, prayer and bible study) held fortnightly, 1, 15 and 29 December; traditional services (with a speaker) held on alternate fortnights, 8 and 22 December.
SACRED Heart Catholic faith community, Christmas timetable: Mass: Saturdays 21 December and 4 January, 5pm; all warmly welcome. Weekend of 28/29 December: no service.
ST Andrews Presbyterian Church extends a warm welcome to join us at 10am for a time of worship and fellowship, with Rev Barry Ayers.
Saturday 18th January 2025
Late entries
https://showday.online/show/goldenbay
Late entries accepted across all sections of show at discretion of section Chief Steward late fees apply
Schedules & gate tickets available at showday.online/show/goldenbay
Sat 11 OSCAR LADELL + WILSON BLACKLEYGenre-bending soul & blues. $15 door.
Wed 15th NINA LANE & BRYAN OWENS + CALLIE Fine folk $10 door.
Sat 18th THE DORADO EXPERIMENT. $20 door. Sat 25th YOUNG MOON.
$20 tickets @ undertheradar, $25 door. Wed 29th GUSTO GUSTO (Aust). $20 door. Fri 31st RICHTER CITY REBELS. $20 door. for more details see www.musselinn.co.nz
UPCOMING EVENTS / Mea pakiri haere
SUNDAY 29 DECEMBER
DISC GOLF: 6.30pm, Park Ave. All levels welcome, disc hire $2.
TUESDAY 31 DECEMBER
DISC GOLF: 5.30pm, Park Ave. All levels welcome, disc hire $2.
WEDNESDAY 1 JANUARY
O NEKAKA PLAYGROUP, all welcome, Wednesdays 10am12.30pm, Onekaka Hall.
LATER EVENTS
LUNASA FESTIVAL 31 January-3 February 2025. Live world music, inspirational workshops, ceilidh, Balfolk dances and more! Canaan Downs-Pikikirunga. Admission passes from www.luminatefestival.co.nz/lunasa
MISSING YOUR KITTIES while visiting Golden Bay? Volunteer with the beautiful rescued cats at The Peaceable Kin-dom. Ph 022 344 6606.
FUELS & FISHING
NEW YEAR BOOK FAIR
Saturday 4 January 2025 9am -2pm Books, Produce, Baking
Friday: Southerlies prevailing. A few showers over Kahurangi, mainly fine elsewhere
Saturday: Southwesterlies fresh about Farewell. Mainly fine weather
Sunday: Northwesterlies freshening, tending southwest later. Some rain likely
Monday: Southwesterlies easing. Mainly fine weather
Tuesday: Westerlies freshening and tending southwest later. Some showers likely
Golden Bay
The
Jana
This newly built & furnished 2019 home boasts sea views and seamless indoor-outdoor flow, featuring a generous kwila deck perfect for gatherings and peaceful mornings. Inside, enjoy an openplan living space with a cosy fireplace. Get in touch today.
Jana McConnon 021 245 2197
Paul McConnon 027 504 2872
Offers Over $669,000 14 Gibbs Road, COLLINGWOOD
A BRIGHT MODERN DELIGHT
297 Cwd-Puponga Rd, FERNTOWN FERNTOWN GETAWAY
This home offers great potential with some TLC. It features a combined kitchen and dining area, a separate lounge, and plenty of room to make it your own. Outside, you'll find garden space and a glasshouse. Sold "as is where is" – call today to schedule a private viewing!
Belinda J Barnes 021 236 2840
873 Cwd-Bainham, ROCKVILLE THE CALL OF THE COUNTRY
Belinda J Barnes 021 236 2840 Asking $620,000
This renovated home is fresh, bright & ready for you to view. With a new kitchen, updated electricals, new carpet & freshly painted interiors. A woodfire & heat pump for heating. Located on the school bus route, it’s ideal for a young family. Arrange your private viewing today!
The location doesn’t get better than this! Yes, this beautiful home is still available. It features an open-plan living area with estuary views and an expansive deck for entertaining. The flexible integrated studio is perfect for a home office or a holiday let. Call now!
Jana McConnon 021 245 2197
Paul McConnon 027 504 2872
81 Awaroa Inlet, ONCE IN A LIFETIME
Located in the heart of the National Park with no direct vehicle accessthis home is positioned off the beach down a right of way and is well maintained and tastefully decorated. The ideal place to make memories! Viewings are tide dependant. Call us now.
Jana McConnon 021 245 2197
Paul McConnon 027 504 2872
Offers Over $985,000 13 Pohutukawa Place, POHARA QUALITY HOME IN POHARA
This stunning 2022 build captures breathtaking sea views. The home boasts a designer kitchen, open living spaces & a beautifully landscaped garden. Soak in the bath and enjoy the ever-changing seascape. Don’t miss out, call now to arrange a viewing!
James Mackay 027 359 0892
To this charming villa with verandah and deck allowing views of Collingwood, sea, mountains & estuary. Timber floors & high ceilings, with plenty of gardens to enjoy. It must be viewed to appreciate the character, charm & potential. Call me for private viewing
Belinda J Barnes 021
Offers Over $950,000 19 Sandridge Terrace, POHARA STUNNING SEA VIEW RETREAT
This charming home offers breathtaking sea views, timber finishes, and modern amenities. Located near Pohara Beach, cafes, and restaurants, it’s an ideal retreat for downsizers or those seeking a serene coastal lifestyle - call today to arrange a viewing.
James Mackay 027 359 0892
+ GST (if any)
$399,000 719 & 721 Abel Tasman Dr, POHARA TWO BLOCKS LEFT
The last two blocks 2 & 3 are offered for sale at $399,000 + GST (if any) for both.
Block 2 - 6524m2 of residentially zoned land.
Block 3 - 8855m2, with a mix of rural 2 and residentially zoned land. Call James for all the information.
