Siren Gold, the Australian company seeking to mine gold at Sam's Creek in the Cobb Valley, has resumed exploratory drilling operations at the site.
But it was only chance observation that alerted the Golden Bay community to the development. A week prior to the company’s Valentine’s Day announcement to the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX), several people in the Cobb Valley noted materials being flown in to the isolated spot by helicopter.
The seemingly under-the-radar operation appears to fly in the face of an earlier commitment Siren Gold made to keep the Golden Bay community informed. Unsurprisingly, local groups concerned about the proposed mine are very unhappy about being kept in the dark.
Coordinator for Save Our Springs (SOS) Kevin Moran is one of those frustrated with
the lack of communication. “SOS first heard the news of the helicopter activity at Sam's Creek and the festival site in the Cobb Valley from residents and festival-goers,” says Kevin. He explains that an operating base was being established for the contractors, Waihi-based Alton Drilling Limited. “Judging from the amount of building material, it’s likely Siren Gold is building a new drilling platform. There are two portacoms, a shower, toilet, washing machine, dryer and a freezer. There’s also a helipad.”
SOS’s raison d'être is to protect Te Waikoropupū Springs, and Kevin sees the threat of arsenic contamination from toxic mine tailings stored in its catchment as potentially disastrous for the fragile subterranean ecosystem producing the supplying aquifer’s crystal clear waters. With the recently granted Water Conservation Order providing no cast-iron guarantee of protection against arsenic pollution, and in the light of recent
developments, Kevin says SOS is stepping up its opposition to Siren Gold’s activity through a combination of “musical creativity and artistry alongside non-violent actions”. One of the first events is a peaceful rally at Sam's Creek, planned for a week on Saturday, which will include music, singers, poetry, and speeches.
“The gathering will emphasise the spiritual life of Sam's Creek and its intimate connection with Te Waikoropupū Springs,” says Kevin.
Sam's Creek Collective – a group formed last year by Golden Bay community members to counter the threat to Tākaka’s surface and ground waters from the mining operation – is very unimpressed by Siren Gold’s approach.
"These are not people you can trust,” says group member Julie Downard. “They say one thing and they do another. They said they would bring the community along with them; keep us informed as soon as they had anything to tell us. And here they are with...
Continued on page 3
Whakaaro: mental health
In Golden Bay, many of us are facing mental health issues. Despite the beauty of the surroundings, we can struggle with anxiety, depression, addictions and burnout. This region, like much of New Zealand, is grappling with a paradox: people are busier than ever, chasing success and external validation, yet mental health issues are increasing.
Recent data from New Zealand health agencies show that approximately one in three adults report experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression. The situation is particularly concerning in rural areas, where social isolation, financial stress, and limited access to social services contribute to rising distress. We may feel overwhelmed by trying to balance work, family, and social expectations.
Social media plays a significant role in influencing our mental health. Research has shown that constant exposure to curated and idealised online lives – particularly on platforms like Instagram and Facebook –fuels feelings of inadequacy and anxiety, especially among younger people. Studies suggest that a large percentage of young New Zealanders actively use social media, where they compare their lives to unrealistic standards, often leading to lower self-esteem, depression, and a sense of disconnection from real-world relationships.
Despite mounting evidence of the psychological damage caused by the relentless pursuit of external validation, many people feel trapped in a cycle of chasing more – more success, more possessions, more recognition. Studies on well-being and economic trends in New Zealand indicate that people are spending longer hours working and engaging in consumer-driven activities than ever before, yet overall, life satisfaction remains stagnant. The belief that productivity and material wealth equate to happiness often...
JO RICHARDS
Part of Siren Gold's new drilling operation base at Sam's Creek in Golden Bay's Cobb Valley. Photo: Supplied.
DULUX STILL COLOUR PALETTE
Embrace a calm, quiet luxury this autumn and winter with the Still palette from the Dulux Colour Forecast. The palette has an underlying warmth, with calming neutral.
Call in to the ITM Colour Centre and choose your colour
Trust seeks support for yoga space
SUBMITTED
Bay businesses have a golden opportunity to support the establishment of a new venue devoted to local wellbeing, spearheaded by the Bay Yoga Education Trust.
Trust director Debora O'Callaghan is clearing and staging the space down the lane beside the Village Theatre for a fresh start. "For four years so far as a charitable trust we've been running specialised, subsidised programs for the elderly, and for managing stress and mental health – but without a proper venue...opening this studio will provide a peaceful, yoga dedicated space to those programs and more."
Debora says the goal is to secure a year's rent before April. "So far we've gratefully received $3,500 in donations from individual students but we're appealing to local businesses and reaching out to funding organisations to make up the remaining $11,500. Any extra will help us to improve the space itself – we need a sign outside, for example."
Trustee Emma Callaghan says local businesses considering tax-deductible support should know it will have a strong ripple effect in the community. "Science has finally proven the benefit of the mind-body connection, thoroughly demonstrating its positive effects on stress. Yoga can really help people to cope and feel better, and it’s important that this place will be non-dogmatic and financially accessible to everyone."
Debora's vision includes making services more available to those who would most benefit. "We're in talks to collaborate with psychotherapists, Te Whare Mahana, the local hospital and other groups to make this a real asset to the community."
The new dedicated studio will be a welcome arrival for local practitioners and teachers, with Anahata Yoga Retreat on the market and with Heart Space in Tukurua recently closed. Much like its predecessor Bay Yoga, the new space is set to draw in the teachings of several local passionate yoga facilitators (pictured above) and there is space for more: Debora says an invitation is also wide open to meditation facilitators.
Debora says Bay Yoga is back, but it could be under a new name. "We'll have an opening celebration when we secure the lease in April. The name needs to try to reflect the mission...to promote wellbeing and, beyond that, intelligent living."
Support Bay Yoga Education Trust's venture to provide a space for wellbeing in Tākaka by contacting: bayyoganz@ gmail.com
From left, Golden Bay yoga teachers Samantha Blanchard, Lucy Leadbeater, Emma Callaghan, Johanna Sperens, Debora O'Callaghan and Sheila Kennard. The space is expected to be open for practice by the end of February. Photo: Submitted.
Tuakana Teina
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Nelson-Tasman
Siren activity sets off alarm
Continued from page 1
...a very significant move and they didn't tell the community. Unless they expect the community to read ASX statements.” But, although disappointed by the company’s actions, she is not surprised. “This is just the latest example in a series of lies and distortions coming from Siren Gold.”
The new drilling operation also came as a surprise to the Golden Bay Community Board (GBCB), which met with Siren Gold’s CEO Victor Rajasooriar and technical director Paul Angus last August. “We knew from the last meeting with them that they were planning on starting exploration but were never given a date,” says GBCB chair Abbie Langford.
Some parties are being kept in the loop, albeit belatedly. Tasman District Council (TDC), which has granted Siren Gold three resource consents relating to water take, water discharge and exploratory drilling, was informed about the resumption of operations last week, several days after drilling had already started. TDC communications officer Tim O’Connell assured The GB Weekly that staff are keeping an eye on the consent holder’s activities. “…So far they are operating within the terms of their resource consents and we are monitoring them accordingly to ensure this remains the case.”
In addition to its council consents, Siren Gold currently holds an exploration permit from New Zealand Petroleum and Minerals (NZPM) and an access permit issued by the Department of Conservation.
The NZPM permit expires at the end of March, by which time Siren Gold must have submitted an application for a mining permit if the project is to continue. That may explain the timing of the latest drilling operation, and its purpose – to determine whether the existing Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) of 824.4koz, (thousand ounces), of gold could be increased by expanding the potential mining envelope. The investigation involves drilling down to a depth of around 700
metres – some 200 metres beyond the current drill hole, but well within the consented maximum depth of 1000 metres. The results, specifically the gold content of the rock, from the deeper deposits should help the company decide whether it is viable to proceed with an industrial scale mining operation.
On Monday this week, The GB Weekly submitted a number of questions to Siren Gold but neither the CEO nor the technical director were available for comment. A generic response, which provided no new information, outlined the company’s timeline as follows: “The Sams Creek gold exploration project has a number of years of detailed investigation and technical studies to undergo, in order to determine if the project could become a viable mining operation. If these technical investigations are successful, it will take a further number of years to then engage with community and the various government departments to gain approvals prior to any development consideration.”
So, even if the current exploration leads to a substantial upwards revision of the MRE it will be a long time before Siren Gold – or any subsequent permit holder – begins mining operations. But in gold mining, nothing is certain; the current permit holder is the latest in a long list of mining companies that collectively have drilled well in excess of 100 holes at Sam's Creek over the past 40 years without any of them considering it a viable site.
It is perhaps not surprising therefore that while news of the drilling operation was viewed as significant in Golden Bay, the Australian stock market was relatively unmoved. The ASX announcement, made on 14 February, triggered only a modest share price rally, with Siren Gold shares hitting a high of AU$0.062 before falling back. At time of going to press (Wednesday) the share price was sitting at AU$0.058.
To access the Siren Gold’s ASX announcements, go to: https://www.sirengold.com.au/site/investor-centre/ASXAnnouncements
paul.legros@tp.co.nz
alexandra.isherwood@tp.co.nz
Sam's Creek Collective's sign on the Tākaka Hill road. Photo: Supplied. A drilling rig operating near Sam's Creek. Photo: Supplied.
Hire Charges Please allow for set up and clean up time in your booking
Minimum Hire 2 hours $20
Half Day Hire 4 hours
Either a morning or an afternoon $40
Day Hire Between 8.30am - 4.30pm $80
Night Hire Between 4.30pm - 1.00am $80
Full Day and
Night Hire Between 8.30am - 1.00am $120
Bond (refundable upon cleaning and key return)
Standard hire $150
Function or Full Day/Night Hire $500
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT SURVEY
Kārurea te muka tāngata, Whakamaua te kahu Pae Ora
Bind together the people and fasten the cloak of Pae Ora
The people of Mohua/Golden Bay aged 15 years and over are encouraged to participate in a community engagement survey, launched this week, aimed at improving our local health and wellbeing services.
Led by the Golden Bay Pae Ora Alliance Partnership Group, which includes representatives from various health, wellbeing, and education providers in Golden Bay, this survey is designed to identify the specific health and wellbeing needs of our community. Your input will ensure that services reflect community voice and provide important information for local providers to shape local services that meet YOUR needs. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/J28QRXQ
Or scan QR code….
Survey is open until Friday, March 21, 2025! Don’t miss your chance to have your voice heard!
By sharing your feedback in this survey, you will help shape a healthier future for everyone in our community.
Please share this information with friends and family to ensure everyone’s voice is heard.
For any queries about the survey, your participation or you require a paper copy, please email gbsurvey@nbph.org.nz
Survey completion time approximately 15 minutes.
LETTERS
Palestinians dispossessed
In 1982, I went to India where I met a young man who told me the saddest story and gave me a book called Dispossessed: The Ordeal of the Palestinians. Their ordeal started in 1928 when they were kind enough to open their doors to the unfortunate Jewish people who wanted to get out of Germany. They flooded in in 1948. A Palestinian said: “We opened up our lounges to the Jews and they took over our house.”
Aline D’Aoust
Whale strandings – thank you
I would like to extend my thanks to all the people who volunteered and assisted with the recent pilot whale strandings in the Bay.
Of the six strandings between December and January, with your valued assistance, we were able to save 56 whales of the 112 that stranded which is a good result given the challenging circumstances. We know that responding to whale strandings is physically and emotionally demanding and appreciate the huge efforts of everyone who assisted.
I would also like to thank Manawhenua ki Mohua, Massey University and Project Jonah representatives for their expertise and involvement.
Ross Trotter, DOC Golden Bay operations manager Peaceful gathering at Sam’s Creek
Save Our Springs intends to hold a creative and non-violent gathering at Sam’s Creek at 3 pm on Saturday 8 March. We stress this gathering will be law-abiding.
The gathering will include music, singers, poetry, and possibly drumming. There will be a speaker or two. Festivalgoers are very welcome. The gathering will emphasise the spirituality of Sam’s Creek and its intimate connection with Te Waikoropupū Springs.
Save Our Springs wants to emphasise that we intend no harm to the employees of Alton Drilling or their equipment. We have invited people who disagree with the commencement of Siren Gold’s drilling to email Alton thoughtfully and responsibly. We are aware that Alton is a Kiwi company that goes about their work in a law-abiding way.
We emphasise our primary concern is Siren Gold. Siren Gold communicated the recommencement of its drilling program very poorly. This is Siren Gold's fault, not Alton’s.
Siren Gold has not communicated with the Golden Bay community at all!
Frustration is building in the community about the prospect of what is essentially an arsenic mine at Sam’s Creek. Save Our Springs intends to work with creative and peace-loving members of the Golden Bay Community and beyond to stop the arsenic mine.
We will not back down.
If you are peace-loving and want to protect the wild beauty of the Cobb Valley and Sam’s Creek, please join us on Saturday 8 March, 3pm at Sam’s Creek.
Kevin Moran, coordinator Save Our Springs LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
The GB Weekly welcomes letters to the editor. Please email your letter to us at admin@gbweekly.co.nz by 12pm Tuesday. Include the writer’s full name, home address and daytime phone number. Letters will be printed over the name of the writer; names are withheld only when compelling reasons can be established. Letters must not exceed 250 words. Letters that are too long will not be considered. All correspondence is at the discretion of the manager, who reserves the right to decline, edit, or abridge letters without explanation or further discussion. Links to third party websites will not be published. The views expressed are those of the correspondents and are not necessarily endorsed or shared by The GB Weekly.
WIN
The winner of a pair of tickets to the Tākaka 39ers Glitz and Glam Casino and Auction evening at the Rec Centre on Saturday 15 March is: Hannah Bloemgarten. Congratulations, we'll be in touch.
TICKETS ON SALE
Tickets are still available from Paper Plus Tākaka. See advert on page 14 of this issue for full details.
CORRECTION
In last week's article about walking netball we incorrectly stated that the sessions were on Tuesday. They are, in fact, held every Wednesday at 9.30am. Apologies for the error and any problems this may have caused.
TĀKAKA
CROSSWORD 298
The winner of the February crossword competition is Amanda Smith Congratulations, your prize is at Paper Plus Tākaka.
SOLUTIONS
ACROSS: 1. Pause 4. Editorial 9. Shiftless 10. Ivory 11. Egg on 12. Alarm bell 13. Get lost 15. Tenuous 18. Relates 20. Pirates 21. Apathetic 23. Elite 25. Brawl 26. Re-elected 27. Mutineers 28. Lurid DOWN: 1. Passenger 2. Using 3. Eating out 4. Elegant 5. Instant 6. Odium 7. Ironed out 8. Loyal 14. Tell apart 16. Nerve cell 17. Suspended 19. Set free 20. Pockets 21. Album 22. Helen 24. Inter
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WHAKAARO : Mental health
Continued from page 1 leads to displeasure rather than fulfilment. When mental health struggles arise, many turn to external solutions such as therapy, medication, and self-help strategies. While these interventions can be beneficial, they do not always address the root cause of distress. Research from international health organisations suggests that while therapy and medication can alleviate symptoms, long-term well-being is often dependent on deeper lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress, developing social connections, and doing what brings a strong sense of fulfilment. No surprises: doing this might require sacrifice and commitment.
Mindfulness and simplicity offer a sustainable approach to well-being. Philosophies such as Buddhism emphasise mindfulness, non-attachment, and self-compassion, encouraging people to slow down, embrace the present moment, and cultivate inner peace. Scientific research has repeatedly shown that mindfulness practices, meditation and
twm@twm.org.nz
WHEN:
Monday 24th March 9am – 3.30pm
nature immersion can significantly reduce stress and improve mood. In New Zealand, studies on nature’s impact on mental health have confirmed that spending just 30 minutes a day in a natural environment can improve mental clarity and lower stress levels. Despite clear evidence supporting these approaches, many people continue to prioritise external success over internal well-being, often to their own detriment.
In Golden Bay, surrounded by mountains, rivers, and beaches, the solution seems clear: slow down, set firm boundaries with screen time, and reconnect with what truly matters. For many of us, this will be a big challenge. However, making these changes as a group increases the likelihood of maintaining commitment. Together, we are stronger.
Until we learn to embrace stillness and balance, the cycle of stress, anxiety, and disconnection will continue. But by prioritising meaningful, simple practices that nourish the mind, body, and spirit, we can reduce the pressures of modern life and create a more peaceful, fulfilling existence.
Looking after your service line
The ‘service line’ is the power line that runs from your property boundary into your house. Service lines are usually owned by the property owner, not the electricity network.
Open to all members of our community
(Please bring own lunch/refreshments)
WHERE:
PROGRAMME:
PROGRAMME:
Morning: Build an understanding of the function of high-risk behaviours such as self-injury, suicidal ideation, gestures and attempts, substance use and others. Discuss stigma attached to these behaviours and how to support people’s emotional responses to these behaviours.
Morning: Build an understanding of the function of high-risk behaviours such as self-injury, suicidal ideation, gestures and attempts, substance use and others. Discuss stigma attached to these behaviours and how to support people's emotional responses to these behaviours.
Afternoon: Learn effective strategies for supporting those who struggle with high-risk behaviours including building awareness of our own emotions and judgments of these behaviours, regulating that internal response, effective use of validation, assessing for risk and determining effective interventions.
Afternoon: Learn effective strategies for supporting those who struggle with high-risk behaviours including building awareness of our own emotions and judgments of these behaviours, regulating that internal response, effective use of validation, assessing for risk and determining effective interventions.
TRAINERS: Authors of the Podcast “All Therapists are Jerks!”
Maintaining your service line
Service lines may be overhead or underground. In some cases, particularly on rural properties, the service line may be attached to one or more privately-owned poles.
It is a good idea to check your service line (and poles, if you have them) from time-to-time because lack of maintenance can lead to a loss of supply or a safety hazard. If you are concerned about the state of your service line, call a lines contractor or an electrician to get advice.
Jolie Fritz (Jo) LPC – Jo has a Master’s Degree in Community Psychology, and intensive DBT training at the first Linehan Certified Clinic in the US. She was the Lead Therapist at a comprehensive adolescent DBT residential in Wisconsin. Training and supervision, comprehensive outpatient practice with The DBT Center of Greater Washington. Co-creator and co-host of the international DBT podcast “All Therapists Are Jerks”. She works with individuals, families and the community to reduce stigma, increase understanding and empower individuals and communicates to create meaningful change.
Erik Ulland, MD – Child & adolescent psychiatrist with 20 years of experience. Medical Director of inpatient psychiatry. Creator of comprehensive adolescent DBT residential. Medical Director of DBT Services in the same system. 15 years’ experience of care treating clients with eating disorders, severe anxiety disorders, self-destructive and suicidal behaviors, ADHD, OCD, trauma, personality and substance use disorders. He values educating others and empowering them to make changes that improve their quality of life and finds DBT the most effective modality. Co-creator of the international DBT podcast “All Therapists Are Jerks”.
It is important to make sure that your service line is clear of trees as these can bring the line down during bad weather, leaving you without power. They can also pose a safety hazard, for example if children come into contact with the lines when climbing trees. If you think your trees are getting too close to your service line, get the right advice and help to trim them back:
Option 1: Contact an electricity network-trained arborist to take care of the work safely. There is a list of network trained arborists on our website.
Option 2: The power can be disconnected temporarily using the safety disconnection service, allowing you or your contractor (e.g. a gardener) to do the work safely.
Visit: networktasman.co.nz/staysafe/smartthinking
Be especially vigiliant when working close to your service line, for example painting a roof or eaves, or doing a job anywhere near where the service line connects with your house. If you have a buried service line and are planning to dig holes, build fences, plant trees or drive warratahs, make sure you know where your service line is before you start. If you are in doubt, get a cable locate carried out first. Information on cable location services is provided on our website.
If you are not sure about whether a powerline on your property is a service line or not, or if you have a question about how to stay safe around your service line, you can email us at info@networktasman.co.nz and we will get back to you.
Takaka Recreation Centre
OPEN FOR AUTUMN
From 1 March. Lots of new stock. Trading hours: 9am-2pm Thursday, Friday, Saturday
1317 Takaka-Collingwood Highway www.okgrow.nz
Papa Taiao Earthcare Future Farming course
SOL MORGAN
Papa Taiao Earthcare are launching their first ever Mohua Future Farming course for young people wanting something very different from normal schooling. Miriam Sherratt, general manager of Papa Taiao, has dreamed of this moment since she started working for them in 2017. “It has been a passion project of mine to bring this programme to my home town, so I am stoked that it is happening,” says Miriam.
The 23-week programme is starting on 14 March and running through to 12 September, 9am-3pm every weekday. The course is made for year 11 to 13 ākonga (students) who don’t do so well in the classroom. Every week will offer visits to farmers, contractors and food lovers in the community. The hands-on programme covers topics like soil science, beekeeping, fencing, trapping and hunting, seed drilling, chainsawing, animal care, quad bikes, tree planting and more.
“We offer an approach to learning which follows the concept of 'ako', where students and teachers have as much to learn. It is a reciprocal approach to learning,” explains Miriam.
adopted different roles within the nursery business. They supply trees for community plantings and private landowners and also manage planting progammes.
Papa Taiao Earthcare evolved from Education for Sustainability in the New Zealand curriculum and has been running since 2012. It all began with 18 Māori boys, four Pākeha boys and two girl students. The ākonga did not lack talent, they lacked engagement in education. To create re-engagement, the ākonga founder Marty Taylor talked with Richard Nahi from Puatahi marae to design a course. The team took the ākonga into the bush to help protect the critically threatened wetland bird weweia (New Zealand grebe). Richard shared his māutaunga, tikanga and kawa and Marty developed NCEA programmes that recognised student learning. During this year-long programme, the ākonga helped design the course, and they learned how to trap and run a fur collecting business. They all passed NCEA from the co-created innovative curriculum.
Papa Taiao Earthcare’s mission is to “enable young people to make a living through enterprise while regenerating the planet and its people”. Their vision “to build a culture of sustainable regenerative enterprise and kaitaiakitanga across Aotearoa”. “Our values are based on manaakitanga, whanaugatanga and kaitaiakitanga,” says Miriam. Papa Taiao Earthcare deliver both short and long programmes to over 400 students across Aotearoa every year.
While studying nursery production through Papa Taiao earthcare at the West Coast Trades Academy, nine passionate young conservationists founded Trees For Change NZ. This social enterprise draws on the skills of each of the partners who have
A busy month with lots of harvesting of main crops like pumpkins, dry beans, capsicums and late onions, not to mention an abundance of tomatoes, beans, potatoes, eggplants, and zucchinis. Pumpkins are ready when stalk and neighbouring tassel go dry. Herbs can be trimmed, harvested and dried or preserved, such as basil pesto. There is potentially lots of processing to do to preserve it all for winter months.
Make the most of crop residues by making large composts. Incorporating grass clippings, comfrey leaves and manure(s) help activate the heap and get it decomposing well before the cooler months slow this process down.
Collect seeds from your favourite lettuce, beet, coriander, bean or tomato with relative ease. Hang dry seed to mature, fully then process using sieves and winnow chaff out from a bowl. Package in air-tight containers and freeze.
Broad-caste sow green manure crops into vacant beds with minimal tillage of soil surface, or through a light mulch to keep the seeds moist after a good watering in. A good mix of green crops offers greater diversity of food for soil organisms especially when turned in the late winter/early spring.
Plant greens for winter harvest like spinach beet, spinach and brassicas such as kohlrabi or broccoli. Late crops like French beans or zucchinis benefit from evening cloching to
“We want this course to inspire the ākonga through exposure to the great farming examples in the Bay. We hope the course gives each student the confidence for change, to farm in a financial and sustainable way,” explains Miriam. “This has been an incredible community collaboration with farmers, growers and contractors sharing their knowledge and skills.”
Miriam is excited to hear from the students who have enrolled in the Mohua Future Farming course so far. The programme is about embodied student-centred learning, so they get to highlight what really interests them on this course. She also acknowledges the collaboration between Collingwood Area School, Golden Bay High School and Golden Bay Workcentre in developing the programme. “This year we are laying the foundations for the Mohua Future Farming course with those who attend, and it hopefully will grow from there.”
There are still a couple of placements available, so get in touch if you think this is for you.
https://www.papataiaoearthcare.nz/long-courses or Facebook search Papa Taiao for more information, or contact Miriam directly, ph 027 541 6406, email: miriam@ papataiaoearthcare.nz.
keep them warm and extend their productive season.
The hothouse can also be planted with winter greens. Clean the glass or plastic to improve sunlight penetration. Main crops like tomatoes and capsicum will also continue to grow into winter with care. Remove old or diseased leaves. Liquid fertilise these crops with comfrey juice etc, along with outdoor crops to boost growth.
The orchard has loads of fruit ready for picking, preserving, or storing in a cool dry place for later use. If dry, keep irrigating young fruit trees. Mulch with a woody compost or manure, and chippings to both feed and provide moisture. Offer protection to young or sensitive fruits like avocados using wind cloth.
It is a good time to spray disease-susceptible fruits with copper oxychloride after harvest, before leaf fall. Copper will also help with scab, (verrucosis disease) on citrus. Fruits with insect infestations like scale insect, aphid or passion vine hoppers can be sprayed with an all-purpose oil or neem oil. Insert trichodowels into trees with silverleaf fungus. Sow beneficial understorey plants into the orchard (see Kings Seeds NZ). Animals like chickens or pigs serve as great “cleaner-uppers” of fallen fruit including those infested with codlin moth. Burn cardboard bands that were put around the trunks in spring.
PLANTING CALENDAR
Sow for transplanting: All seeds 11-12 March. Spring onions and leafy greens (spinach, spinach beet, silver beet, lettuce, endive, Pak choi, Chinese cabbage, cabbages, cauliflower, broccoli): best 10, 20-21 March. Herbs and flowers, eg, snapdragon – also 8 March. Sow direct: All seeds 11-12 March. Salads, spring onions, kohlrabi: best 10, 20-21 March. Carrots, beetroot, radish, turnip and swede: also 15-17 March. Flowers, eg, cornflower: also 8 March. Peas: best 12-13, 22 March. Plant: Best 17, 23-31 March. Salad greens, spinach, cabbages, cauliflower, broccoli. Flowers, eg: bulbs like daffodil, ixia or iris. Avoid gardening: 14 March (full moon) and 30 (new moon).
One of the Future Farming course topics is beekeeping. Photo: Supplied.
GARDEN JOBS FOR MARCH
Project uplift seeks support
Rural Women Top of the South have their annual conference coming up, in Nelson. This year the “charitable give back” chosen is an organisation called “Project Uplift”, which collects feminine under-garments. These are distributed to women in the Pacific Islands who do not always have opportunities for the common dignity of wearing a bra. This initiative was started in 2004 by an Australian lady to offer convenience, comfort and confidence for women who have limited access to buy bras. Rural Women are proud to support, (pun intended) this cause which has been aiding women in our neighbouring countries for 20 years.
Bras of all sizes and colours can be donated as well as sports bras, crop tops, swimwear and also new knickers. Old bras are collected as well, because the hook-and-eye fasteners are repurposed as bra extenders.
PGG Wrightson has generously offered to be a collection point, and donated goods will be picked up on Wednesday 12 March to be delivered to Nelson and from there to Fiji, Vanuatu, Tonga and Samoa.
On behalf of Golden Bay Rural Women, thank you in advance for your contribution.
Rural Women centennial rose
Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) are celebrating 100 years since the first group was formed. One of the projects to recognise this milestone is the development of a beautiful rose which has been named “Rural Women”. This idea was spearheaded by the Fordell Mangamahu Branch of RWNZ in partnership with Matthews Nurseries Ltd. The rose is described by the breeder as a “Floribunda rose, displaying clusters of soft lilac hued blooms above a bushy growing, easy care plant with mid-green foliage. Repeat flowering, fragrant with a height of approximately 1.1 metres. The rose will be happiest planted into a garden. It can also grow in a large pot, 60 litres-plus with a saucer, so watering and liquid feeding can be done from below, to strengthen the root system. A stunning, delightfully scented rose which is compact, easy to care for, and perfect for any garden”.
RWNZ is promoting this rose into communities with the goal of raising RWNZ's profile nationwide, celebrating their centenary and fundraising for local RW. The promotion slogan is: “What do you call a bunch of Rural Women? Blooming marvellous!”. The cost is $50 each, with $10 of that returned to local RW branches. The roses will be delivered bare-rooted in late June. Stocks are limited so orders will be taken now until 1 April.
Because all bulk orders will be sent to one delivery address, Rural Service Centre have kindly agreed to be the contact point for Golden Bay. If you would like to be part of marking this RWNZ milestone with a rose that symbolises a century of empowering rural women, please place your order with RSC. Phone 03 525 9113 or call into the
JOYCE WYLLIE
JOYCE WYLLIE
SUBMITTED BY CYNTHIA McCONVILLE
Heard but rarely seen, the ruru or morepork is often known to us only by its call in the night. Many times, I have wanted to locate the ruru that calls across the road from my house. I wonder where it nests and how successful it is in raising its young. Does it nest on the ground or in the cavity of a live or dead tree? Where is its dark daytime hideaway and how safe is it from predators? It’s no secret that the more you watch birds the more invested you become.
Ideas that have stemmed from hearing this ruru’s onomatopoeic call at night include installing a nesting box or installing a light that will attract moths (insects are the main staple of its diet). Ruru’s prey does include mice and small birds but occasionally larger birds such as blackbirds are captured. These other birds recognise ruru as predators. If they discover them at their roost sites during the day, daring short flights and alarm calls will be heard as they attempt to drive them away.
Just as we get to know our way to the bathroom at night with the light off, owls rely on memory. They know their flight paths and the whereabouts of the nests of other birds. Their super silent flight is another ruru asset, something I have experienced as one swept in front of me. Apart from the barn owl which only very recently colonised New Zealand from Australia, the ruru or morepork is our only remaining native owl.
BOOK REVIEW
by Katie Lavers
THE GLASSMAKER by Tracey Chevalier
Tracey Chevalier is one of those authors whose historical fiction can make the past feel vivid and immediate, as though you’re flipping through a photo album with your great-great-grandmother. If you’ve never picked up one of her books, I suggest sprinting to your nearest library and diving into titles like Remarkable Creatures, which chronicles Mary Anning’s dinosaur discovery in Lyme Regis, or Girl with a Pearl Earring, which artfully imagines the life behind Vermeer’s famous painting. Chevalier’s novels are typically well-paced page-turners, each a delightful immersion into a richly detailed world. I’ve often claimed I’d read anything she writes; she could pen a story about paint drying, and I’d be first in line. Yet, with The Glassmaker, I find myself unexpectedly at odds with my own declaration.
The story unfolds with Chevalier’s trademark style, introducing us to a young woman, Orsola. She is constantly thwarted by the harsh realities of life in Murano, Italy, during a time when glass-blowing was a domain strictly reserved for men. However, Orsola is not one to be easily deterred. With a spirit as fiery as the furnaces she longs to work beside, she navigates her way into bead-making, earning her own money and helping to care for her nieces and nephew while dealing with the drudgery of housework. All this she does under the watchful and often oppressive eyes of her overbearing older brothers.
Chevalier’s attention to the intricacies of glass-making is nothing short of meticulous, and her descriptions of the craft are as vivid and intricate as the glass itself. Yet, despite the detailed backdrop and Orsola’s undeniable grit, I found my interest waning. The narrative, rich with historical texture, somehow left me unmoved. Orsola’s journey, filled with personal and societal battles, from surviving the plague to dealing with a lover’s abandonment and a family-arranged marriage, should have been compelling. Yet, somewhere amidst the molten glass and familial obligations, I stopped caring.
It’s not that there’s anything technically wrong with this tome. Chevalier’s prose is as polished as ever, and the historical setting is impeccably researched. The fault, I suspect, lies with me and not the author. Perhaps I’m simply not in the mood for another tale of perseverance against patriarchal norms, or maybe the allure of glass-making doesn’t hold the same charm as dinosaur fossils or Dutch paintings.
For those considering whether to invest their time in The Glassmaker, I offer this: life is short, and your reading list is long. While I respect Chevalier immensely and hold her previous works in high regard, this is one novel I’d gently suggest passing by. Breaking up with a favourite author feels akin to ending a longstanding friendship; it’s not easy, and it’s done with a heavy heart. But sometimes, it’s necessary to move on and seek new narratives that spark joy rather than obligation.
At the end of the day, reading should be a pleasure, not a duty. So, with a wistful sigh, I turn the page and wish Orsola the best of luck in her glass-blowing endeavours, while I venture forth to find my next literary adventure.
A ruru chick peers from its nesting box. Photo: Submitted.
Sharko hits the big screen
SUBMITTED
The highly anticipated and award-winning documentary Sharko about New Zealand Rugby League icon Mark Graham, the only player to be inducted into both the Australian and New Zealand Halls of Fame made its bigscreen debut at The Village Theatre on Wednesday, and will be followed by an encore this Sunday, 2 March.
Produced and directed by Mark’s filmmaker son Luke, Sharko is an intimate and inspiring deep dive into the life and career of his father, a rugby league legend whose journey through the sport has left an indelible mark on the game. The film captures not only the highs and lows of a professional athlete but also the personal resilience and community spirit that drive one of the game’s greatest figures. The documentary masterfully weaves together personal family archives, recreations, and footage from Mark's storied career, which spanned three continents.
Sharko is an honest and deeply human portrayal of New Zealand’s greatest rugby league player – an inspiring journey about confronting the past and moving forward.
“We are over the moon to screen Sharko in Tākaka,” said Luke. “This film is not only a celebration of dad and rugby league but of the beautiful country we were both born in.” Sunday 2 March, 4pm at The Village Theatre.
Pest Free Onetahua’s on a Roll!
Exciting times are here for Pest Free Onetahua, with the arrival of over 1,000 new traps and pest control devices. Instead of the previously planned aerial toxin drop, the team has moved to intensive groundbased pest control, and the early results are
Starting from the far end of Onetahua/ Farewell Spit, a dense trapping network is being set up to eliminate possums in a rolling front down the length of the Spit—and it’s working. Hundreds of possums have already been removed, a major step forward for protecting the Spit’s delicate ecosystems.
And it’s not just possums on the list. The team will also target hares, keep pigs and deer off the Spit, and control rats and stoats in some areas. Helping restore the areas biodiversity, and create a safe haven for native wildlife and migrating shorebirds.
One of the team’s biggest challenges is controlling hares, which love to feast on native plants and are notoriously hard to hunt. To deal with this, the team is working closely with DOC to trial innovative pest control methods, including using a cutting-edge thermal drone to locate pests. If successful, this could also pave the way for better hare control across Aotearoa, especially in fragile alpine areas.
The Pest Free Onetahua team’s excited to roll out these new techniques and see their impact firsthand. Every pest removed brings us closer to our Predator Free 2050 goal and protects this special place, together we’re helping nature thrive!
Find out more about this inspiring Tasman Environmental Trust and Manawhenua ki Mohua project at www.onetahuarestoration.org.nz
Pest Free Onetahua Field Officer, Bert Harris, holding a successfully dispatched hare on Onetahua/ Farewell Spit.
Award-winning NZ documentary Sharko has an encore screening at The Village Theatre this Sunday. Photo: Submitted.
TPS fundraiser trail ride
Tākaka Primary School’s fundraiser roared into life last Sunday.
The Upper Tākaka trail ride, organised by Ando’s Dirtbike Events, was open to riders of all ages who could participate on regular dirt bikes, quadbikes or e-bikes.
School principal Corinne Rowe was clearly pleased with how the day went, with sunny weather and good track conditions, thanks to rain earlier in the week which minimised the dust. She was also happy about the turnout. “This was an event for all ages, and all ages supported it. Tākaka Primary School Whānau Army provided refreshments throughout the day. We had a fantastic group of volunteers helping us sell food and drinks making this possible. We even had a few grandparents supporting us on the day, which was hugely appreciated.
“Many of the volunteers brought their own children who attend TPS, and they were fantastic helpers throughout the day selling food and putting their maths learning into practice on the till for us. A few games of hide and seek in the woolshed, and feeding them throughout the day ensured a good day was had by all.”
Bay wide focus for local builder
Dan Burton of Bay Wide Building Ltd says building is always interesting because every project has its own set of challenges.
“You get calls from all kinds of people, whether they're looking to build their ‘forever home’ for their retirement, a family bach, a basic pole shed, a studio or office, and we even do a little bit of specialty landscaping here and there.”
Dan relocated to Golden Bay from Christchurch in 2020, bringing with him extensive experience gained since entering the trade in 2007. His story is one many can relate to: “We moved here for a lifestyle change, and while we're still working hard, living in paradise makes it well worthwhile.”
Having focused on architectural builds in Canterbury, Dan shares his passion for tackling complex projects. “I really enjoy those challenging jobs. While we do take on a variety of projects, we really love to get stuck into the bespoke, unique, and interesting jobs.” As with the house he is currently working on in the Pōhara Valley, a move towards passive homes is bringing those extra layers of intricacy which Dan enjoys. ” This is a renovation to an existing home. We’ve stripped everything out except for the main superstructure, starting again as a passive house.” He says using the PIR insulated foam board
everywhere on the outside is like “building a giant fridge”, with everything sealed tight. “This seems to be the way that the building industry is going to go in the future. You're constantly learning new things, and we've got a good team of guys here, continuously improving and bouncing ideas off each other to find solutions.”
Dan believes another advantage of living and working in Golden Bay is the quality of suppliers and subcontractors. “ITM does a fantastic job. They've backed us since we've started the business and are great to deal with.”
Like other builders based here, he’s found that the Bay seems to be an "economic microcosm" with a steady stream of work. Having been so warmly welcomed to Golden Bay, Dan is committed to giving back to the community where he can. “We employ as many people locally as we can. We’re training staff and giving people jobs, and keeping it focused on this side of the Hill as much as possible.”
As a profession, Dan says building is hard to beat for satisfaction. “You get to see what you've done at the end of the day, and you can say, ‘We've achieved this, or improved that’. And, you know, you get to meet a lot of really cool, interesting people along the way.”
ALISTAIR HUGHES
Dan Burton (centre) of Bay Wide Building employs locally wherever possible
Hill". Photo: Supplied.
RESULTS
BRIDGE
19 February. Upper Tākaka Hi-Lo Session 1. L Scurr/P Nelson 62.50%; H Curtis/J Hannan 58.33%; J Kingston/J Pemberton 50.60%. H/cap: L Scurr/P Nelson 60.20%; H Curtis/J Hannan 58.88%; J Kingston/J Pemberton 49%.
GOLF
19 February. Stableford: R Tait 36, J Gilmore 34, S Kerr 30. Closest to pin: 3/12 C Hadler, 8/17 J Gilmore, 9/18 W Dobbie. Best gross: R Tait 83. 22 February. Drawn Pairs Stableford: R Young/ W Rothwell 71, R Heuvel/M Stephens 68, B Topine/S Ransley 66. Closest to pin: 3/12 B Topine, 4/13 G Ryan, 8/17 R Dyce, 9/18 W Collie. Twos: W Rothwell, B Topine. Happy wanderer: M Dixon. Best gross: W Collie. AGM NOTICES
GOLDEN Bay Orchestra AGM, Thursday 13 March, 7pm at 22 Feary Crescent, Tākaka.
G B FRIENDSHIP CLUB
will meet at the Senior Citizens’ Hall at 10am on Friday 7 March for AGM Questions welcomed as are visitors. Koha appreciated. gbfriendshipclub@gmail.com
RECENT AGM / Hui ā tau - Nō nā tata nei
ORGANISATIONS may have their committee members’ names printed in this column for free if emailed to admin@ gbweekly.co.nz
PERSONAL NOTICES / Pānui ake
G Gurdjieff Club reads, discusses his ideas and work. Txt 027 626 1106.
Marushka, our dear mum and great friend to so many in Golden Bay passed away recently. It is so sad yet the huge amount of support is incredible. So many people were touched by her energetic zest for life here in England and as many in NZ too.
The first time she came to NZ, she joined me on her mountain bike as I tamed and rode two St James horses over the mountains and back to the Bay. She tried every adventure she could discover!
She inspired us all to get up and go, carry on regardless, waste not a moment and head for the hills or out on the water. She loved our community here in the Bay and Marushka was part of the Wednesday Walkers, Tuesday Treadlers, the Mussel Inn crowd, the waka and kayaking groups, and her great love was rock climbing and cycling. I am amazed at the huge number of people she inspired to get out into the hills. She loved the huge hike over the Dragons Teeth with Warwick and the team and she enjoyed the huge mountineering trips all over NZ, including Mount Aspiring and other greats. She completed the Catlins, cycled round NZ twice and kayaked the West Coast. Please send her off with a wish and a prayer and remember to go for gold even when your body tells you it’s too hard. She overcame breast cancer 12 years ago and was part of the Dragon Boat team of breast cancer survivors worldwide. Laughing and encouraging were her two best emotions. I am so glad to have travelled with her on this extraordinary journey of life and she will be missed and remembered by all of us.
Caitlin
CLASSIFIEDS
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. Ph 027 525 8679.
Calling All Retired & Former Teachers!
Are you a former primary or secondary teacher with an expired practicing certificate? Have you considered returning to the classroom but felt held back by refresher course requirements? We have great news!
Due to a recent change in Government policy, you may now be eligible to renew your practicing certificate without completing a refresher course You may also be eligible to have your certification fee reimbursed!
Kāhui Ako ki Mohua (the Golden Bay Community of Learning) is looking for passionate, experienced educators to support our local schools So if you’re interested in casual or regular relief teaching, we’d love to hear from you!
Contact us today to find out more:
Rachel Evans Motupipi School 03 525 9986 principal@motupipi school nz or
Steve McLean Central Tākaka School 03 525 9200
principal@centraltakaka school nz
Come back to teaching and make a difference in Mohua/Golden Bay.
Tākaka Refrigeration & Air Conditioning
Heat
$8,000 Community Grant 24th Round
The RSC Community Grant is again open to applicants.
PUBLIC NOTICES / Pānui a whānui
THE winners of the raffles to fundraise for safety equipment by the Pōhara Boat Club and Onetahua Waka Ama Club were Steve du Feu, Nicola Rae, Haden Offen, Ana Kamo, Becky (Pōhara) and John Matthews.
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.
ALCOHOLICS Anonymous, open meeting, all welcome. Thursdays 7pm, 94 Commercial Street. Hall behind the Catholic
The purpose of the Grant is to distribute $8000 biannually to cultural, philanthropic, charitable, sporting or educational organisations or any other purpose that benefits the Golden Bay community or a section of it.
Applications Close: Midday, Monday 31st March 2025
Application forms can be collected from the Country Store Mon-Fri: 8am – 5pm & Sat: 9am – 12pm Or contact Victoria Quay, Grants Coordinator 03 929 7519 admin@rsc.co.nz
Finance Officer—Part Time
We are looking for an experienced Finance Officer to join our dedicated and busy team here in Golden Bay.
The successful applicant will have experience in:
• Preparation of financial accounts and cost centre reporting.
• Wages & accounting software; calculating and paying wages.
• Managing term deposits & banking relationships.
• Preparing budgets.
For a job description email Premal Gauntlett at manager@mohuasocialservices.org.nz or call 525 9728. Written applications to include cover letter, CV, and names of two referees. Applications close 10 March 2025. We offer flexible hours/days/working location.
LOST AND FOUND / Ngaronga/Kitenga
LOST. My rainbow striped bag. Please ph Chris 027 772 3253.
Support Worker/Coach
Start as casual (incl sleepovers &
The National DBT Service in Takaka is NZ’s ONLY residential Mental-Health programme (six beds) providing intensive D ialectical B Behaviour T Therapy (DBT)
We are seeking flexible & open- minded individuals who are astute, empathetic and good listeners for casual or part-time shift work (various shifts 4- 8hrs during day/evening/night and weekends) Check out our webpage w w w tw m or g nz /ca r e e r s for the full job description We would like to hear from you if you are looking for a meaningful & exciting job with an above-average hourly pay rate (applicants will need a NZQA level 4 in mental health or a willingness to do the required courses)
If you are considering applying but unsure of some details, please contact us directly at 03 525 9624 TWM will invest in DBT training for the right candidate! Please forward your complete application (Cover letter, CV and our TWM Application Form) to: H R
For a detailed job description and our TWM application form please email to HR@twm.org.nz
HEALTH & WELLBEING / Hauora
APOTHECARY, medical herbalist, iridology, reflexology, reiki. Lisa Williams, ph 027 451 9797, www.goldenbayiridology.com MASSAGE. Ph Willem 022 134 1726.
MASSAGE AND REIKI. Emma Sutherland (Ameliorate). First one-hour treatment - $45 for GB locals. www.ameliorate.nz. Ph 027 487 2639. Tākaka and Collingwood.
Role Title: STMS - Site Traffic Management Specialist
Location: Takaka, Golden Bay, Tasman Contract Type: Full Time
We’re looking for an experienced STMS - Site Traffic Management Specialist to j oin our team in Golden Bay
In your STMS role you will be responsible for:
and the public What you’ll bring to the table
• Setting up and removing traffic sites following TTM Plans
• Lead your crew while working on TTM sites
• Complete required site and STMS paperwork and reports
• STMS qualification - any level
• Class 1 licence minimum, Class 2 is favourable
PROPERTY AVAILABLE / Rawa watea
FOR rent: self-contained unfurnished one-bedroom unit in Pōhara, long term, rent $280/ week plus power, gas, firewood. References required. Email: veraretobalzer@gmail.com
PROPERTY WANTED / Rawa hiahia
GOLDEN BAY PROPERTY WANTED
We are a local couple seeking our dream property. Preferably between Takaka - Collingwood. Ideally this dream property would have a combination of;
• Beach front
• Views/nice aspect
• Native bush
• Water source
• More than 1000sqm land - larger blocks considered too
• Some pasture (for household animals)
It can be a home, or bare land. Anything considered. If you are thinking of selling soon, or even within the next few years we would love to hear from you. Please contact via email Goldenbaydreamhome@gmail.com
FOR SALE / Hei hokohoko
DAIRY sheep and goats. Ph Julia 027 364 9991. FRIDGE /freezer, good condition, $100. Ph 524 8989. CARAVAN, 1966 Clipper 4.5m, unfinished project. $4500. Ph 027 689 9168.
RANGE hood, new. Ph 027 391 1626.
SHEERS, curtains, Luxaflex blinds, liners, roman blind supplies, duette cord repairs, quality curtain tracks. View our vast range products at Imagine designs, 96b Commercial St, Tākaka.
Free Regenerative Pasture Raised Beef and Lamb. Our on-Farm licensed abattoir reduces animal stress and allows us
• Confident with basic technology (smartphone/tablet)
• Ensuring the health and safety of you, your team and the public
• Good level of attention to detail to ensure accurate TM setups
What you’ll bring to the table
• Excellent communication skills
• Proactive around Health & Safety
• STMS qualification - any level
• Class 1 licence minimum, Class 2 is favourable
What’s in it for you
• Confident with basic technology (smartphone/tablet)
At Fulton Hogan we truly care about the wellbeing of our people and giving them the tools, they need to succeed. This includes:
• Good level of attention to detail to ensure accurate TM setups
• Guaranteed 40 hours per week and job security
• Excellent communication skills
• Medical Insurance
• Proactive around Health & Safety
• Life insurance cover
• Access to a great list of retail discounts, including extraordinary fuel discounts
What’s in it for you
• Increased KiwiSaver employer contributions for service milestones up to 7%
• Further training and qualifications
• Full PPE and FH uniform
At Fulton Hogan we truly care about the wellbeing of our people and giving them the tools, they need to succeed. This includes:
• Learning and development programmes, long service leave
• Guaranteed 40 hours per week and job security
• Medical Insurance
All successful candidates must under-go and pass a pre-employment medical and drug screen
• Life insurance cover
For more information, please call 0272856274 or email veronica.christian@fultonhogan.com HR, Nelson/Marlborough
• Access to a great list of retail discounts, including extraordinary fuel discounts
• Increased KiwiSaver employer contributions for service milestones up to 7%
• Further training and qualifications
• Full PPE and FH uniform
Productive Grazing Farm.
A highly fertile grazing block of 84.8ha in three titles. This ex-dairy farm is currently utilised as a dairy support farm but could also make a great block for fattening beef stock. Currently leased returning a good passive income. Leased on a short termination period should you wish to farm it yourself.
The farm sits in a stunning location on East Takaka Road with amazing views of the ranges in every direction from the property.
The area is rich in stands of mature native trees. Of flat contour, there are two terraces with about a third of the farm including the improvements on the higher terrace and the balance in fertile river flats. There are some great building sites if a house is required.
TRADES AND SERVICES /
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.
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.
LUXAFLEX, blinds, blinds, blinds, Beauty is in the detail. Ph Tracey at Imagine designs 027 440 0071 or visit 96b Commercial
St, Tākaka to view our Luxaflex blind stand, curtain, sheer and liner fabrics, also half price short ends of high end fabrics.
MOHUA Glass and Glazing. Ph 027 410 9105, mohuaglass@ gmail.com
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.
PICTURE framer. Ph Anna Quartly 027 543 4357.
SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED. Ph Shane 027 647 4913.
SEWING SERVICE, NEEDLES, THREADS, WOOL, BEADS. Stitch ‘n Sew ph 525 8177.
STARLINK supply, installation, and WiFi extension. Ph 020 4084 9238.
STUMP grinding specialist. Tree care and property maintenance. Ph Carl 027 263 5353.
SUMMER fruit pruning, sustainable property advice and management, edible landscaping, soil testing, garden mentoring. Sol Morgan, GroWise Consultancy, ph 027 514 9112.
SURVEYING: GPS and drone surveys. Topo, building setout, boundary location. Mohua Uenuku Surveying, ph Alexis 021
023 91 364.
TĀKAKA Garden Services, for all your lawn and garden needs. Ph 027 525 8006 or 525 8806.
TILER. Professional wall and floor tiling and design. Wayne Robinson Tiling. Ph 027 576 1620.
GOLDEN Bay Anglican Parish warmly invites you to join them on Sunday, 10am at Tākaka or 4.45pm at Collingwood (starting with a cuppa). Fellowship gathering (fellowship, songs, prayer and bible study) 2 and 16 March; worship service (with a speaker) held on 9 and 23 March. 30 March will be a combined Parish celebration of worship, to be held 10am at Tākaka. There will be no service in Collingwood on 30 March.
SACRED Heart Catholic faith community timetable: Mass, 5pm, 1st and 3rd Saturdays of month. Service of the Word, 9.30am, 2nd Sunday. No service 4th weekend.
ST Andrews Presbyterian Church extends a warm welcome to join us at 10am for a time of worship and fellowship.
Do it right & keep it local
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.
GOOD AS GOLD CAFÉ, Tākaka. Open Monday-Friday, 7am4pm. Ph 525 8193.
LANGFORD STORE, Bainham. Perfect scones and more. Open 6 days, 9am-5pm. Closed Fridays. Ph 524 8228.
MOLLY B’S, Pōhara. Open from 3pm Monday, Tuesday. Wednesday-Friday, from 10am. Weekends open at 9am for brunch. Ph 525 7678.
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.
TOTO'S CAFÉ PIZZA. Open 5 days, 11am-5pm, weather permitting. Closed Tuesdays and Fridays. totoscafegallery@ gmail.com, ph 03 970 7934.
Helping grow the country
Jesus said,
EATING OUT / Kai wahi kē
Mahi a ratonga
LEARNING / Akonga / Huarahi ako/mahi
ART tutor available. Whether wanting to up skill for enjoyment or working towards qualifications, Enfys will facilitate and inspire. Individual and small groups. 25 years' experience. UK and NZ certified. Ph 021 203 8551.
UPCOMING EVENTS / Mea pakiri haere
SATURDAY 1 MARCH
DAIRY WORKSHOP - LAST ONE OF THE SEASON! 9.30am11.30am, Motupipi. Limited spaces. $40 per person. Learn how to milk sheep and goats. Ph 027 364 9991.
THE AORERE FLOWER SHOW will be held at Pākawau Hall. Schedules are at On the Spot Collingwood, Earth Gems Flowers & Garden, Hammer Hardware, BP Tākaka or ph 027 222 6576, 524 8359. All entries to the hall by 11am Saturday 1 March. Doors open 2pm-4pm. Afternoon tea and sales table.
BOARD GAMING AT ONEKAKA HALL, 12.30pm to 5pm. All ages welcome. Koha. See the Facebook group "Board Gaming in Golden Bay", or ph Karen 022 655 9725.
SUNDAY 2 MARCH
WOMEN'S WORKSHOP MENSTRUAL CYCLE AWARENESS.
9.30-11.30am, Tākaka. Email for info: sophiakahpayah@gmail.com
BADMINTON, REC PARK CENTRE, 6.45-8.45pm. All welcome. Ph Kerry 027 525 7007.
DISC GOLF: 6.30pm, Park Ave. All levels welcome, disc hire $2.
TUESDAY 4 MARCH
DISC GOLF: 5.30pm, Park Ave. All levels welcome, disc hire $2. GB WEEKLY DEADLINE: noon on Tuesdays.
WEDNESDAY 5 MARCH
WELLBY TALKING CAFÉ, 1.30pm-3pm, Tākaka Library. Wellby Talking Cafés are about social connection and finding out about groups, activities and services. www.wellby.org.nz, ph 03 546 7681.
O NEKAKA PLAYGROUP, all welcome, Wednesdays 10am12.30pm, Onekaka Hall.
THURSDAY 6 MARCH
DAYTIME BADMINTON, Rec Park Centre, 9-11am. All welcome. Ph Kerry 027 525 7007.
FRIDAY 7 MARCH
ECUMENCIAL WORLD DAY OF PRAYER SERVICE, 2pm at the Catholic Church. This year's service is prepared by Cook Island's women. Everyone welcome.
Looking
SEA WEEK
Robyn Fullerton
McDowell
Lorraine Polglase
Friday 28th February
4:00 DragonKeeper (PG)
8:00 Wolf Man (R16) Final Saturday 1St march
4:00 Tina (M)
8:00 Bridget Jones: Mad about the Boy (M) Final Sunday 2nd
4:00 Sharko (E) Final
8:00 September 5 (M)
WedneSday 5th
5:30 Tina (M)
Friday: Light winds with sea breezes developing. Mainly fine, although some cloud about Kahurangi in the afternoon with isolated showers
Saturday: Northwesterlies slowly freshening. Cloudy areas increasing in the west, mainly fine elsewhere
Sunday: Freshening southwesterlies west of Parapara, lighter winds with afternoon sea breezes elsewhere. Cloudy at times in the west otherwise mainly fine
Monday: Northwesterlies freshening about Farewell, lighter winds elsewhere. Some showers developing over Kahurangi, cloudy but dry elsewhere
Tuesday: Northerlies easing and cold southerlies developing later. Rain most of the day
U3A welcomes Axel Downard-Wilke, Director of ViaStrada Traffic Engineering Consultancy, Wikipedia Administrator, and Chair of GB Cycle & Walkways Society, who will present “Collingwood – the almost-capital of New Zealand” Friday 14 March, 10.30am, Senior Citizens’ Hall All welcome. Non-members, a gold coin please. Supported with
The Mussel Inn Coming Up...
Sat 1st SPINOZA - Progressive funk. $15 door. Mon 3rd (and every Monday) SINGALONG ‘round the piano with CRAIG DENHAM. 7.30pm. All welcome.
Sat 8th THE BIDIBIDS + JAMES GRAY –Bluegrass newfolk. $15 door.
Thu 13th QUIZ NIGHT. 7.30pm. All welcome.
Fri 14th MY BABY. $50 tickets (limited) @ Moshtix. Sun 16th CARLEEN EBBS soprano and GABRIELA GLAPSKA piano – operatic performance. $25 tickets @ Eventbrite, $30 door.
Sat 22nd THE DESOTOS. $15 door.
Thu 27th QUIZ NIGHT. 7.30pm. All welcome.
Sat 29th LOUIS TM. $20 door.
Sat 29th Marchfest - Founders Park, Nelson. Release of the Bush Baby 025! for more details see www.musselinn.co.nz
Asking $1,075,000
Yes, this one has plenty of space for the whole family. Built in 2003 to a high standard, it is ready & waiting for its new owners! With two-bathrooms, internal access garage & an easycare section there is a lot to like here. All this just a short walk from the Beach. Call for more details.
25 Bay Vista Drive, POHARA
POHARA PANORAMA
Escape to a three-bedroom, two-bathroom home above Pohara with stunning sea views.
This multi-level property features an openplan living area, a well-designed kitchen with ample storage, and a sun-soaked deck overlooking Pohara Beach. The upper level includes a second living area and a master bedroom with an ensuite. Surrounded by established plantings for privacy, it also offers a double garage and extra parking.
Jana McConnon 021 245 2197
027 504 2872
Offers Over $925,000
25 Motupipi Street, TAKAKA
ANNIE’S NIRVANA BACKPACKER
Centrally located iconic accommodation. Deceptively spacious & licenced for 28 pax. With a fully self-contained separate owners’ accommodation. It is YHA approved. Call me for all of the information and to view.
Belinda J Barnes 021 236 2840
SUPERIOR FAMILY HOME
A very special family property, currently operating GB Boarding Kennels, offering many features that must be seen to be fully appreciated. Rural vista, fantastic location, beautiful gardens & fruit trees. Four plus bedrooms with sunny conservatory, carport, garage, shed & swimming pool to finish it off.
Belinda J Barnes 021 236 2840
every step of the way. Let us make your real estate journey smooth and rewarding. Get in touch today to explore your options!
Asking $599,000
THE CALL OF THE COUNTRY
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!
Belinda J Barnes 021 236 2840
You
Modern with stunning views. Gorgeous sunlight hours and a warm, easy-care home. The gardens are a delight with many fruits to enjoy. The hard work has been done! Call Paul or Jana today.
Jana McConnon 021 245 2197
Paul
027 504 2872
This beautifully designed home features
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
Offers Over $899,000 28 Bay Vista Drive, POHARA FULLY LOADED + SEASVIEWS!
This Charming Clifton Villa is a beautifully furnished 2019 holiday home featuring stunning views & an inviting kwila deck for gatherings. Inside, it offers an openplan living area with vibrant yellow accents & a cozy fireplace. Set on a lush 770sqm section near Pohara's restaurants & local store, it’s perfect for relaxing retreats or full-time living.
Jana McConnon 021 245 2197
Paul McConnon 027 504 2872
The flexible integrated studio is perfect for a home office or guest accommodation. With easy-care landscaping and ample parking, this property is ideal for a lockand-leave holiday home or a cozy family retreat. Don't miss out! Call Today.
Mahutonga Rise & Autahi Lane
A magical location elevated above Pohara Beach, enjoy the best of both worlds - far enough away from the summer activity below, yet close enough to wander down & be part of it all if you wish. Titles now avalible.
