Issue 1,124 Friday 1st March 2024

A finalist for Kiwibank New Zealand Local Hero of the Year award, Hororata local Dr Olive Webb is still coming to terms with her initial nomination for the prestigious award.

Dr Webb is one of three finalists for the award; the winner will be announced at the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards Gala later in March.

“I have no idea who nominated me,” says Dr Webb, “but it’s clearly someone who knows me in my role with people with disabilities.”

A clinical psychologist by profession, Dr Webb specialises in working with people with intellectual disabilities and autism. Her work for the last 50 years has been in an area that is often discriminated against, where a huge number of people in need, over the last decades, have been subjected to terrible abuse and not adequately recognised in their

ownright.

Her early involvement began when she and her mother started a youth club for people with disabilities from a local hospital in the Waikato district. Later after working at a hospital as a nurse’s aide, Dr Webb decided that if she was going to continue to work in this area, she wanted to do so from a point of view of knowledge and with real empathy and really understand people with disabilities on a minute-tominute,day-to-daybasis. Her work has enabled her to make a difference to people’s lives and allowed her to “form entrenched and wonderful relationships and learn so much about people.”

An area Dr Webb is veryproud of is her work as a leader in the deinstitutionalisation movement where she was seconded by the then Department of Health one to two days a week to give talks around the country to groups andparents. At the same time,

as a service leader for people with intellectual disabilities at Sunnyside, she helped reduce the number of residents from 150 to just 15 inpatients.

Asked how she felt about

getting to the finalist stage for the award, Dr Webb says, “It’s exciting, bewildering and massively humbling. It’s nice that this sort of work is consideredtobeimportant.”

EDUCARE

Opening Hours 7:30am - 5pm

ANNABEL’S EDUCARE

& 3 YR & 4 YR OLD KINDERGARTENS

12-16 South Tce,

• Educare Ph 318 7943

• 3 Year Ph 318 7948

• 4 Year Ph 318 8843

Opening Hours:

• Mon-Wed, & Fri 10am - 5pm

• Late Night Thurs: 10am - 7pm

• Sat: 10am - 2pm

18 Freight Drive, Iport, Rolleston

Ph: 03 347 4595 | Mob: 0274 843040

info@rollestoncostumes.co.nz www.rollestoncostumes.co.nz

JOIN ST JOHN DARFIELD YOUTH

Hato Hone St John Darfield

Youth division meets on every Wednesday of the school term at 4 Bray Street, Darfield. This year they are starting with a brand-newcurriculum.

Anyone aged between 5 and 18 are welcome to join their exciting program and learn leadership, communication, drill,firstAidandlifeskills.

Earn badges towards your Grand Prior Award and join in fun activities including camps, andcompetitions.

The Penguin programme is for people in school Years 1-6.

When Penguins join St John theyreceive astarterpackthat includesauniform,afolderfor their badge material, as well as some fun items for them to keep. Meetings can include things such as games, badge work, drill and sometimes specialthemednights.

Although a lot of the Penguin Programme is based at Darfield, there are many activities throughout the year where Penguins can make contactwithotherdivisions.

Activities can include visits, fun days, competitions and camps.

Cadets are the largest group within St John Youth. Since the

programme is for all young people in school years 7 through 13, cadets are grouped into various levels for training, competitions, events, camps and even social activities. There are many mixed activities for senior cadets to take the lead and provide role models for junior cadetstoaspireto. Because the Cadet Programme is so diverse, there are many ways to achieve in St John Youth:

• Onceacadetcompletes 10goldlevelsubjects,the Level2FirstAidcertificate and100servicehours, theywillachievetheir GrandPrior’sAward.This istheultimateinStJohn Youthandispresentedby theGovernorGeneral.

• EnterStJohnCompetitions whereyouwillhandle emergencysituation scenarioswith actingpatients,fakeblood andevenexplosions!

• Therearemanyhonoursin theCadetProgrammefrom beingpartofaColour Partytothemostvalued rolessuchasCadetofthe Year.

• Benominatedforoneof

ourhigh-calibretraining courses,earnrankto becomeaCorporal, Sergeant,oraCadet LeaderinHatoHoneSt Johnorgetrecognised forservingyourlocal community.

St John Youth offers many different opportunities for young people to challenge themselves. The only limit to what you can achieve is how faryouarewillingtogo!

Outside your weekly divisional meetings, there is an assortment of possibilities for allages.

• Overnightstaysand camps

• Coursesandtraining workshops

• Fundaysandsocial functions

• Competitionsandfirstaid scenarios

• Adventureactivities

• Drillandformal ceremonies

• Operationalevents alongsideStJohnEvents personnel

• Travel opportunities

• andmuchmore!

Comealongandjoininonthe Comealongandjoininonthe Comealongandjoininonthe Comealongandjoininonthe fun.Seeadvertisement fun.Seeadvertisement fun.Seeadvertisement fun.Seeadvertisement alongsideforcontactdetails. alongsideforcontactdetails. alongsideforcontactdetails. alongsideforcontactdetails.

THE PURR-FECT CRIME

A five-year-old moggy named Harry has been hitting the neighbourhood with so much regularity that his owner Gemma Baldock decided that her klepto cat needed his own Facebook page - Harry, the KirweeCatBurglar.

After moving from Rangiora to Kirwee with his owners last year, Harry developed a “new partytrick” —nightlyraids on the neighbourhood where he returns home at “stupid o’clock” in the morning to proudly and loudly announce hislatestfindstohisfamily.

Gemma says he mostly brings home shoes, “He’ll bring home one the first night and thengobackthenextnightfor theotheroneofthepair.”

Other items Harrybrings home are gardening gloves, socks, jandals, rags, string, and to his family’s horror, a pair of usedmen’sunderwear.

“You’d expect it from a lab,” says Gemma, “but not a cat.”

Gemma says people on the end of Harry’s stealing are understanding and most items stolen have been returned to

the owners where possible. Now that he has his own FB page, locals are eagerly following Harry’s nightly

purr-suits and wondering what the purr-petrator will bring homenext.

EMPOWERING FAMILIES

On Monday evening, March

11 at 7:30pm in the Darfield High School (DHS) Hall, an Empowering Families Seminar will be held. This is an opportunity to hear four speakers who are experts in their field of children and

youth, they bring knowledge which we believe will benefit all parents, grandparents, caregivers and friends as you learn to navigate your way whenfacingstrong-willed, independent children and adolescents.

Presenter & Panel members:

Kate Webb (Presenter) Kate Webb (Presenter) Selwyn Parenting Network

Catherine Gallagher Catherine Gallagher Catherine Gallagher Catherine Gallagher Registered Clinical Psychologist MNZCCP, MA (Hons)

Leonie Weavers Leonie Weavers Leonie Weavers Leonie Weavers

Principal of Kirwee Model Primary School

Senior Constable Tony Beaumont Senior Constable Tony Beaumont Senior Constable Beaumont Senior Constable Beaumont Selwyn Family Intervention team – NZ Police in Selwyn

Bruce Ward Bruce Ward Bruce Ward Bruce Ward Youth Aid Officer - NZ Police in Selwyn

Our panel will tackle tough topics such as alcohol, vaping, anger management, bullying, use of cell phones, risky/abusive behaviours, what are the parents rights? andmore.

There will be an opportunity to ask questions of the speakers and there will also be a box where anonymous questions can be posted. A light supper will be provided bytheDHSPTSA.

The invitation is extended to parents, grandparents and caregivers of children who attend primary and secondary schools.

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MISCELLANEOUS 4.0

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In March 2020, Nikki Parker and Mandy Palmer held the very first Miscellaneous Exhibition alongside Pegasus artist Jan Campbell at The Mill in Waikuku. After much deliberation the trio selected the name ‘Miscellaneous’. All three artists come from very different backgrounds and enjoy exploring a variety of mediums and styles in their art practice. It was because of these differences that the artists all resonated with the word, Miscellaneous.

Due to the success of the first

byMandyPalmer

Miscellaneous Art Show, Mandy and Nikki made the decision to have an annual Miscellaneous Art Show with the intention of inviting different artists to exhibit with them each year.

Mandy Palmer is a figurative artist based in Eyrewell Forest, North Canterbury. She enjoys using a variety of mediums and has a strong eye for detail. Her first love has always been drawing – be it with pencil, charcoal, or pastels.

Mandy enjoys the challenge of painting people and animals. The human form and all its intricacies greatly inspire her. More recently she has been exploring mixed media and using mediums in sometimes unconventional ways.

Nikki Parker, aka Absconditus Creations, was destined to live amongst the weird and wonderful after falling into the

ByNikkiParker

world on Friday 13, back in 1983. Growing up with a pencil in hand and fuelled by a bizarre imagination, creating became a necessity to stay sane, or close to. She enjoys experimenting and pushing the boundaries with her artwork. Nikki’s work ranges from often dark, always quirky characters to abstract, and whatever sparks her interest in between.

Sarah Beal is a self-taught artist, who began painting 16 years ago and originally specialised in still life but began painting abstract land and seascapes four years ago. Sarah paints primarily in oils and finds that the texture of this medium best suits her style of painting. She creates intuitively, and her land and seascapes, although painted abstractly, still have a clear and visible element of nature. Sarah’s hope is to enable the viewer to attach their own narrative to her original intention.

BySarahBeal

Tree pruning Tree pruning and removals and removals

Difficult trees Difficult trees

Hedge trimming Hedge trimming Hedge trimming Hedge trimming Advice and tree Advice and assessments assessments

Fully qualified Fully qualified Fully qualified Fully qualified and Insured and Insured

MonochromaticMovement10, (LiquidCharcoal)

Thelieswehidebehind, (Ink&Watercolour)

WinterfollowsAutumn (Oil)

SERVICING  WOF'S TYRES  DIAGNOSTICS BRAKES & SUSPENSION

Ph: 03 318 8113

15 South Terrace, Darfield

Phone: 03 318 8186 /021 0818 3828

Email: admin@darfieldcollision.co.nz

1 Cardale Street, Darfield

Darfield High School (DHS) offers two Rural College Programmes focusing on academic pathways and agricultural skills to learners by preparing them to continue their education or look towards a career in agriculture and other farming-relatedfields.

The School’s Rural College program has about 220 students enrolled and offers Year 9 and 10 students Ag Courses as an option with the opportunity to learn basic farming knowledge and practical skills. From Year 11, students select either a Rural Skills Course or Ag Science Course working towards their respectiveNCEAlevels.

In 2023, DHS partnered with PITO and introduced the Tawera Rural College Agriculture Academy. There are three participating schools involved: Darfield High School, Haeata Community College, and Rolleston College. Thirty-four students in total from each of these schools come to Darfield each Friday for the day. This year there are

two classes - a new intake of Year 11 students and a continuation of last year's class, now in their second year. This program is based more on hands-on and practical skills, providing students with work-ready tools to enter the workforcewhentheyleaveschool.

The Rural College programs have seen reasonable growth over the past two years. The School sees a huge benefit in connecting its students to its Agricultural Community and is organizing its first Ag Expo on Friday, April 5, 2024.

The idea is to have agricultural businesses and support organizations, along with individual farmers or contractors under one roof, providing information about the many different farming practices, networking opportunities, and insights into the various career paths available.

If youwouldliketobeinvolvedintheAgExpo, IfyouwouldliketobeinvolvedintheAgExpo, contactPipDeans(seeadvertisementfor contactPipDeans(seeadvertisementfor details).

LONG-TERM PLAN–HOW IT WORKS

By Councillors

Gliddon

briefoverview.

It has come to our attention that some do not understand the importance of aLong-Term Plan (LTP) works, and with the LTP fast approaching here is a

An LTP is the budget for 10 years. It sets out Council’s work programme for the coming 10 years, including any major new projects or changes to services planned during this period, along with details on funding and rates. The LTP is reviewed every three years and includes policies, strategies, and activitymanagementplans.

Within the LTP sits Annual Plans – these are the yearly work programmes on what council is going to do for the year. This is a detailed action plan outlining Council's projects and finances for each particular year. Minor adjustments can be made here butnotmajor.

Long storyshort – if it isn’t in the LTP, it is particularly hard togetitinanAnnualPlan.

We are currently working through the 2024-34 LTP –with a draft out for consultation on April 2 until May 2. This draft is where the community feed in their ideas andfeedback viasubmissions, which then goes to hearings anddeliberations.

Amendments are them made and the LTP is adopted before July.

This is a reminder to start thinking about what you want to see from council, what is important to you and any specific concerns or projects. Your input is crucial to ensuring that the LTP accurately reflects the needs, aspirations, and priorities of thepeopleitserves.

Lydia

By Councillors Lydia Gliddon Councillors Lydia Councillors Lydia andBobMugford andBobMugford

ARE GRAIN FREE DIETS

THE RIGHT CHOICE?

Grain free diets have gained popularity, appealing to health -conscious people who like the idea of diets dense with exotic proteinsandlegumes.

However, in 2018 the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced it was investigating a potential association between grain free diets and a type of heart disease, Dilated Cardiac Myopathy (DCM). In DCMtheheartmuscleweakens, enlarges, causing the heart’s pumping mechanism to fail. Symptoms can include coughing, fatigue, increased respiration and even fainting. Some dogs can abruptly go into heart failure or die suddenly.

Some breeds have a genetic predisposition for DCM but cardiologists in the USA noticed increased case numbers of DCM in uncommon breeds. The common factor for alldogswasthattheywerefed

grainfreedietsheavyinpeas/ lentils / chickpeas and potatoes.

Many of these dogs fed grain free diets that develop DCM aretaurinedeficient.Taurineis an essential amino acid needed for the heart muscle to function normally. One theory is that the legumes (lentils, peas etc.) interfere or interact with other ingredients in a way thatimpairsthedog’sabilityto absorb the taurine from their diet. This is not a proven conclusion, only a theory. Research is ongoing to help identifytheexact dietaryfactor (s) causing the problem to determine if there is a definitive link between DCM and grain free diets. In the 1980s taurine deficiency was

shown to cause DCM in cats, however a link between grain free diets and DCM in cats has not yet been identified. As all the causes are not fully understood, taurine supplementation alone may not be the only preventative measureneeded.

In summary, dogs that previouslyhave hadnogenetic predisposition for DCM are developing the disease and the only common link currently is the use of Grain free diets. Moreresearchisneeded,butif this has raised questions, we encourage pet parents to discuss this with our veterinarians. We are happy to talk to you and help you find the best diet for your muchlovedpet.

Please contact us to make an appointment in one of the four convenient office locations.

Kate Warren Senior Associate

Mobile: 027 384 3054

Email: kate.warren@tp.co.nz

Rolleston & Darfield: 03 317 9099

Christchurch: 03 374 9999

Ashburton: 03 308 4188

Darfield office open: Mon & Thurs, 9 - 5pm or by appointment

DARFIELD  ASHBURTON  ROLLESTON  CHRISTCHURCH

Conveyancing,

PUBLIC WORKS ACT continued…

ByKateWarren,

Senior Associate, SeniorAssociate, Associate, Tavendale&Partners Tavendale&Partners

There is an increasing demand for national and regional public infrastructure and network services - railways, airports, roads, electricity, schools, andthe like - that can support New Zealand’s growingpopulation.ThePublic Works Act (“PWA”) provides the legal framework for government and local authorities to acquire land/ register easements for these public projects. The legislation is intendedtoensure there’s a clear process for engagement with affected property owners and that compensation for acquired land is fair and reasonable.

The process is summarised below:

The PWA process is usually initiated when a council or government agency such as Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency identifies a need for land to carry out a public project. However, it could also be a significant utility provider that has applied to the

Minister for Land Information under the Resource Management Act to have easements acquired or taken under the PWA. The acquiring authority must demonstrate that the proposed acquisition is in the public interest and that no reasonable alternative exists.

Following the identification of suitable land, a notice is usually issued to the landowner setting out the desire to acquire the property, or part of it.This notice should detail the purpose of the proposed acquisition and initiate negotiations regarding compensation. This is a key phase of the process and there are limited timeframes in which a response and/or objection can be made; so, at this point you’d be well advised to get in touch with a lawyer who has particular expertise in the Public Works Act.

While the PWA does provide for the powers to acquire private property, it also incorporates safeguards to protect landowners’ rights, such as receiving fair and just compensation and ensuring that a landowners’ reasonable legal and valuation costs are reimbursed. When land has

been acquired for a public project and is no longer required, in most circumstances the PWA requires the landto be offered back to the person from whom the land was initially acquired orthatperson’ssuccessor.

Having land taken under the Public Works Act can be stressful and, at times, complex. Tavendale and Partners has significant experience in dealing with the acquisition of farmland and the impact on operational farming properties, the acquisition of family homes, and the relocation of businesses and business loss claims. We are also available toprovide asecond opinion or independent legal advice in thisarea.

If you find yourself subject to land acquisition, or consider this a possibility in the future, please do get in touch – we’d be more than happy to take you through the process in moredetailandassistwithany negotiations to ensure you receive your fair entitlement or, in the instance of land previously acquired under the PWA but no longer required, help facilitate the return of landtothe original landowner/ successor.

Each fortnight the Malvern News brings you a report from your local community

Each fortnight the brings you a report from local community group, keeping you in touch with what is happening in your area. group, keeping you with what

THE LOCALS – SHEFFIELD/ WADDINGTON RESIDENTS’ GROUP

Ann-Maree Ozanne and Brian Donnelly founded The Locals (Sheffield/Waddington Residents’ Group) in January 2021 with the aim of bringing thecommunity together. Having lived in the Sheffield/ Waddington area for over 45 years, it was a chance for the pair to give back to the community they have been partofforsomanyyears.

The Locals represents the Sheffield and Waddington communities by proactively helping solve their issues and promoting community spirit with various projects and events throughout the year.

Many of their events are not only aimed at bringing the community together but also fundraising for a great cause,

such as their annual Pink Ribbon High Tea, held in May each year to raise funds for Breast Cancer Awareness. This has become a very popular annual event with tickets selling out fast and over the past two years they have raisedover$6,000!

Being part of the community means The Locals actively support and participate in local initiatives such as the building of the local bus shelters, planting natives in Waddington, and the pump bike track at the Sheffield Domain. With the aim of connecting the community, The Locals group delivers a monthly newsletter to residents, keeping them informed of community news

and events. The group is currently working together on acouple of submissions tothe CouncilLongTermPlan.

The Locals monthly meeting is held on the second-to-last Wednesday of the month at 7pm in the Sheffield Hall. All Sheffield and Waddington locals are welcome to join the group for a cuppa and a chat. It’s a chance to hear what the group is working on, actively participate if you can, share ideas and to raise community concerns that The Locals may be able to assist with or pass on to those who arebestplacedtohelp.

Formoreinformationabout Formoreinformationabout Formoreinformationabout Formoreinformationabout themonthlymeetingsor themonthlymeetingsor themonthlymeetingsor themonthlymeetingsor ideastoshare,email ideastoshare,email ideastoshare,email ideastoshare,email thelocalssw@gmail.com. thelocalssw@gmail.com. thelocalssw@gmail.com. thelocalssw@gmail.com.

VOLUNTEERS WANTED

The Springfield-Sheffield Toy Library (SSTL) is looking for a responsible, older person/s to assist on a weekly basis with some basic tasks at the Toy LibraryinSheffield.

The SSTL president Kirsty Engelbrecht says, “We’d be grateful for one volunteer but more than one would mean they could fit in with each other.”

The sessions run every Wednesday during term time from9.30to11.30am.

Tasks include helping put out signs, putting the kettle on, putting a few toys outside,

and helping tidy at the end ofsession.

“Having a spare set of hands to help out while members are enjoying playtime with their children would be nice,” says Kirsty.

She also believes it might be a great way for the volunteer to connect with the community, make new friends and see “lots of lovely little faces” eachweek.

“We're a friendly bunch who value the social aspect of the Toy Library, and know all too well how isolating it can be for parents living rurally,” says

Kirsty. Having a coffee and chat together during session time, while enjoying some playtime with their kids is what the Library is all about, plus all the fun and exciting toys availableforhire.

If you’d like to volunteer, either weekly or on a share basis, get in touch with Kirsty by sending her a message through the group’s Facebook page or call into the next Toy Library session held every Wednesday 9:30-11:30am at 16 Railway Terrace East, Sheffield - next to the town hall.

CHILDREN’S DAY-SUNDAY 3 MARCH

Yes, it's that special National Day called Children's Day. We would love to celebrate this day with the children and families at a special service at TrinityChurch9.30am.

After the Harvest Thanksgiving service we will have some activities, morning tea, homemade slices, big library games, face-painting, icecream, ice-blocks, egg & spoon races,sausagesizzleandusing themusicalinstruments.

Everything is free-all we ask is for something grown in your garden or bought from the local fruit and vege store or from the fruit & vege part of

the supermarket so that we can givetotheFoodBank.

So come along and join in the celebrationofourCHILDREN.

GodBless GodBless GodBless GodBless AuntyLyn&AlexaEvenden. AuntyLyn&AlexaEvenden. Selwyn Parenting Network are also proudly bringing Children’s Day back to Malvern on Sunday 3rd March 2024 (12pm midday- 3pm). Whilst this event won’t be on the scale of the flagship event in Rolleston (the same day), they received such huge feedback from the pilot event in March ‘23 and know that Malvern Community wants it to become aregularevent!

A spokesperson for the Selwyn Parenting Network Group says “We totally appreciate the growth that is happening on our Malvern region, and we know how important it is for our rural communities to feel equity and inclusivity with Selwyn based events - It gives us much pride to be able to bring a devoted Children’s Day direct to Malvern, and in turn attract families from neighbouring villages/towns as we did with our pilot event. There will be three hours of FREE fun for the children, including inflatables and other activities.”

POP UP OP SHOP SUCCESS

Over the last three fine SaturdaysinFebruary,youmay have seen the Darfield FoodbankpopupOpShopstall at the Darfield Market. There was a wonderful response to the stall with locals rummaging through the clothing racks and tables looking for treasures andclothingbargains.

Because Rose Craven does such a great job helping local families in need, The Networkers Darfield decided to help Rose raise much needed

funds to help cover the Foodbank’s running costs. The group organised the Op Shop to turn the overflow of donated items into much needed cash.

Spokesperson for The Networkers Darfield Ann-Maree Ozanne says “The response from the community has been amazingandsofar,thepop-up Op Shop has raised over $1,200 towards running costs. Ithasbeensuchagreat success that it will be back at

theDarfieldMarketinMarchon Saturday9and16from9amto 1pm, with a variety of Op Shop items and clothing for sale for a gold coin donation per item.”

Please note, at this stage, the Please note, at this stage, the note, at the note, at the Darfield Foodbank is not Foodbank is looking for donations of any donations any op shop items or clothing, op shop items or clothing, shop items or clothing, shop items or clothing, however donations of non of non-perishable food items or cash food or cash canbeleftattheMalvernNews offices (open Monday to offices (open Monday to (open to (open to Friday9amto4pm). Friday9amto4pm). Friday9amto4pm). Friday9amto4pm).

SAFETY VESTS - RURAL SCHOOLS

• Screened/Crushed Rotten Rock

• Compacts Like Concrete

• Bulk Deliveries - Truck & Trailer

• Lifestyle Driveways - Free Quotes

• AP20

• AP40

• AP65

• Drainage

• Erosion

• Rotten Rock Dairy Lanes

• Landscape

SchoolsinruralSelwynreceiveddonationsofhigh-visibilitysafetyvestsfromAgAssist,an onlineplatformdedicatedtoenhancingsafetyandefficiencyinruralcommunities. Pictured:Studentswiththeirvestsat WindwhistlePrimarySchool.

Several rural Selwyn schools recently received donations of high-visibility safety vests for theschools’students.

The sponsorshipfor the safety vests came from Ag Assist, an innovative online platform developed by farmers for farmers with a mission to enhance safety and efficiency inruralareas.

“Our platform is more than just a tool for connecting farmers and workers; it’s a testament to our commitment to the farming community and its well-being,” says the team behind Ag Assist. “We believe that safety is paramount in agriculture, and we’re dedicated to supporting initiativesthatpromoteit.”

pivotal role that rural schools play in shaping the future of agriculture, the initiative aims to equip students with the necessary safety gear for their journeystoandfromschool.

“Safety is a top priority, especially in rural areas where farm-related activities are prevalent. By providing high-

visibility vests to local schools, we hope to instil a culture of safety and awareness from a young age,” saystheteam.

The sponsored vests serve as a tangible symbol of Ag Assist’s dedication to fostering safety and supportingruralcommunities.

In line with this commitment, Ag Assist recently sponsored high-visibility safety vests for rural schools in the community. Recognising the GlentunnelPrimarySchoolproudlywearingtheirdonatedvests.

MESSAGE FROM NICOLA GRIGG

“As local fire crews spent round-the-clock work to dampen down hotspots across the Port Hills, I’d like to personally acknowledge and thank each and every one of them for their selfless work to keep the lives and livelihoods of many Selwyn residents safe. We are incredibly lucky in this district tohave so many men and women volunteer their time and efforts for our community.

In other news, I’m so pleased to be a part of a significant announcement impacting women across New Zealand.

As initially announced by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Dr Shane Reti MP and me in 2022, our government has just confirmed that we are extending the free breast screening programme to women aged 70-74 as part ofour100-dayplan.

Because of this extension, around 60,000 more women will be entitled to receive free breast screening. It is something we campaigned on because we know how many women and families are affected by breast cancer. Our government thinks this is incredibly important because we know that early detection and treatment is crucial, especially for cancers. Thank you to the wonderful group like the Breast Cancer Foundation NZ for all of your hard work and advocacy on this issue. Needless to say, when I return to parliament from maternity leave, I am looking forward to working on morewomen’s-healthpolicies. Our government has also announced an amendment to reclassify pseudoephedrine as a controlled drug. This will allow the reintroduction of

A good turnout of members enjoyed our February garden visits. The first was to Fairleigh Farm Flowers just out of Waddington where we enjoyed seeing and hearing about the roses, carnations, alstroemerias and seasonal flowers grown there. Flowers are sent out to florists or can be bought there with personal choosing. Paulien gave us a wonderful tour of the glass house which is huge and fully automated for light and heat. We appreciated how much time and effort must go into producing such perfect blooms and it was lovely to see her vegetable patch thriving at the end of the glasshouse. Our second visit was to the beautiful garden set behind an old two-storied house on the corner of Waimak Gorge and Waddington Roads. Leanne Cummins told us about her journey in the garden from removing many natives to the prudent pruning of the existing large trees that were planted so long ago. A garden is in progress along an English garden look in keeping with the house and surrounds. A garden of hydrangeas, dahlias, a beautiful palm tree, and lilies intermingle with the amazing specimen trees, shaded areas, and plantings. An orchard, a pergola, a folly, and beautiful lawns give this garden a place where you want to linger and stay for a long time. The blackberry patch was also impressive.

The next meeting will be held at the Recreation Centre on Tuesday March 19 and will be the Autumn Flower Show starting at 1.30pm. This is always a special show of flowers to delight all.

New members welcome. For more information, contact our secretary at ann.gibson@xtra.co.nz.

cold and flu medicines containing pseudoephedrine to the shelves of pharmacies around the country. Previously pseudoephedrine was banned because there were concerns that it would be used for methamphetamine production but, in reality, gangs have better ways of obtaining pseudoephedrine for manufacturing methamphetamine thanbyburglingshops.

Put simply, the current law is not working, and that is why the Government is taking action.

Given Selwyn is home to some internationally-recognised honey producers, another recent announcement I wanted to mention has been from Agriculture Minister, Todd McClay, to boost the long term resilience of the honey sector - which I’m sure will please our local apiarists. Our government’s ambition is to double the value of agricultural exports in 10 years, and honey plays a part in this earning $379 million for the economyin the year to 30 June 2023. Our aim is to grow exports by enhancing existing trade agreements and engaging in new ones. We know that when agriculture does well, New Zealand does well - and anyone in Selwyn knows our local agri sector is one of New Zealand’s great powerhouses!”

NicolaGrigg NicolaGrigg NicolaGrigg NicolaGrigg SelwynMP SelwynMP

Lee Stokes.

NEW KIRWEE SIXES TOURNAMENT BRINGS DRAMA TO CRICKET

ByRaymondWilliams

The Kirwee Cricket Club hosted the first ever six-a-side, fiveover cricket tournament in the Selwyn District on Waitangi Day.

Called the Kirwee Sixes, the unique cricket tournament format had teams from across the region playing three pool games and a final held betweenthetwotopqualifiers, allplayedonthesameday.

The very shortened version of T20 with multiple games is to create an entertaining fun day out, which did not disappoint. There were plenty of big hits, great catches andspills for the players and the spectators watching.

The final was thrilling close affair between Malvern Maggots and the Kirwee Cricket Lads. Malvern Maggots

batting first, scored 63 runs helped by Austin Earl’s 30 runs. This was a good defendable score, however the Kirwee Lads had other ideas. Jack Kennedy leading the way, with a rapid 29 runs, kept the Kirwee Lads up with the run rate where only nine runs were required off the last over. This is when the drama really happened. The first ball bowled was a no-ball and a four off in the next meant the equation was four runs off five balls. The pressure was on the bowler, Ethan Booth, who held his nerve by bowling two batters and allowing only a single off the last ball of the match. Giving the Malvern Maggots a famous victory by tworuns.

Shot of the day went to Callum Davidson and catch of the day

wenttoKarlJosephs

The Kirwee Cricket Club would like tothank the sponsors, ITM Darfield, Property Brokers, Cookie Time, Sal’s Pizza, Mitre 10 Mega, Jones Family Farm and Judith Earl, who helped makeitallhappen.

KirweeLadsteam:Ryan Earl,WillDavidson,IsaacEarl,RaashMukherjee,HarleyGray andJackKennedy.

ATHLETIC CHAMPS

Huge congratulations to Jody McCarthy-Dempsey, from West Melton, who recently competed in the NZ U18 Combined Championships in Dunedin.

Jody competed in 100m hurdles, high jump, shot put, 200m on day one and then competed in long jump, javelin and800mtofollowingday.

She ended up with an amazing 4800 points taking out the Gold Medal in the U18 HeptathlonEvent.

Jody and her sister Kirsty are alsocompetingin the Athletics New Zealand 2024 Jennian Homes Track and Field Championships from 14-17 Marchinthefollowingevents;

Kirsty: U20ShotPut, U20Discus,U20Javelin, U20HammerThrow.

Jody:U18100mHurdles, U18HighJump, U18LongJump,U18Javelin.

MALVERN RIFLE CLUB

The scheduled programme for the February 24 Training Day was altered from 800 & 900 yards to a double at 900 yards. With most of our representative shooters leaving for the 2024 World Champs in South Africa, a smaller group gathered for the trainingday. It was a cloudy sky with a norwesterlywind that provided a challenge for most of the shooters. With frequent changes in strength from

seven minutes of angle (MOA) to two MOA within a shooters string of 12 shots. Sometimes the variation was more than two MOA between shots.

Next week: March 2, Range Closed, Otago Champs in Oamaru.

Visitors are welcome to the range, contact details can be found on the Malvern Rifle Club Facebook page: facebook.com/ MalvernRifleClub

DARFIELD BOWLS SUCCESS

ThisweekendwastheMalvernOpenwomen'spairsatDarfield andMalvernMen'sTriplesheldatOxford. BronwynHamiltonandHazelLittlejohnretainedthetrophyfor thethirdtime.

ThemenlosttoOxfordwithSteveGlassey,BobShorterand WayneHamiltonin2ndplaced.Darfield'sother2men'steams wereequalthird.

TREK FUTURE RACING

Ex Darfield High School student Ethan Rose is proud to be one of eight cyclists riding for Trek Future Racing for the 2024 season.

Trek Future Racing is the talent factory for Trek Factory Racing and focuses fully on the longterm development of young athletes from all over the world. Sustainable talent development and a strong focus on athlete health are fundamental components of Trek Future Racing’s concept. In the coming years, this

commitment will be further expanded through a unique global talent Community program.

Ethan is currently racing in Abu Dhabi and last week won his Cross-Country Olympic race for the U23 section (4th overall) as well as wining the U23 Cross-Country Short Circuit (6th overall).

LukeJacobsbowlingforthe Darfieldteam.

WAIMAK GOLF GOLF

Women

9 99 9--Hole Match Play Hole Match Play J Smith J Stewart

B Thompson J Jenkins.

18 1818 18--Hole Stableford Hole Stableford Hole Hole J Pottinger 39

NTP #4 #4 NTP #4 J Pottinger # 8 # 8 J Jenkins #11 #11 #11 #11 J Pottinger

9 9--Hole Money Hole Hole Money Hole Money Hole Hole Money Hole J Jenkins

9 9--Hole Nett Eagle on #1 Hole Nett Eagle on #1 on #1 Hole on #1 J Smith

Longest Putt Putt J Pottinger

Two Two Two Two J Jenkins

#11 #11 G Stevenson #14 #14 D Pitts #17 #17 #17 #17 K Thompson-Small.

1Mar

23Mar

28Mar

29Mar

30Mar

1April

7April

ACCOUNTANTS

ARE AREARE ARE you wasting your valuable time trying to keep up with accounts? Call us now for hassle-free accounting, tax and businessadvice - righton your doorstep. Sterling Accountants @ Malvern Business Hub, Ann-Maree 0212150981.

AUTOMOTIVE

DARFIELD DARFIELD DARFIELD Automotive, service & warrant centre. 3D wheel aligner. 7:30am - 5:30pm, Monday - Friday. Your onestop auto shop! Please phone 033188113.

CHURCH NOTICES

CELEBRANT

Jo Babe - Wedding Celebrant 0274323360

jobabenz8@gmail.com www.jobabecelebrant.co.nz

For your personalised wedding ceremony

DOG GROOMING

CHIMNEY CLEANING

CARRS CARRS Chimney Cleaning. Servicing the Selwyn district. $80 per chimney. Please ph Rodney on 03 324 2999 and leaveamessage.

CHIM CHIM Chim. We'll sweep your log-burners flue, check the firebricks, baffles, air-tubes and controls. We're experts on coal-ranges, also sweeping any sized open fire. We quote and undertake repairs, flue extensions and install birdnetting. Pleasephone us on021939113.

CLEANING

CARPET CARPET CARPET/Window Cleaning. Thorough job, good price, quick drying. Highly recommended. Phone/ text Robert anytime on 0272999599.

COUNSELLING

INSPIRE INSPIRE Counselling Practice. Offering individual and relationship counselling, personal development, creative inspiration. To make an appointment phone Michelle Bland - 020 4115 4184.

PROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONAL, confidential service.Allowyourselftoseek support, talk about your challenges & discover a way forward. FREE 1/2 hour consulttodiscussyourneeds.

Other services also available: Reiki healing & massage. Lisa Mills, Qualified Creative Therapist. Please phone 027 814 0785 or visit www.goldentouch.co.nz

FIREWOOD & COAL

HORORATA HORORATA Firewood. Bone dry old man pine. Free delivery. 4, 6 & 8mtr loads. Phone0277811492.

GRAZING WANTED

SHEEP SHEEP SHEEP SHEEP grazing urgently required. any size holding considered. Please ph 0274361389.

FOR SALE

30 30 hawinterfeed-Kale.Phone Grant0273459262.

MERINO Rams. Well bred 18/19 micron. Reasonably. priced. Bruc. Accred. Can be delivered. Please phone 0274361389.

COLOURED Rams. Several breeds and colours. Reas. priced. Kirwee. Ph 0272416323.

COLOUR COLOUR COLOUR Romney Rams. ‘Pigeon Pair’.Ph0274361389.

Malvern

Lions have

PEA STRAW AVAILABLE

$7 per small bale, delivered. Medium squares pea straw also available! Phone now for delivery, our ex-paddock.

• Hugh Wright Sheffield - 021 565 550

• Les Clement Darfield - 027 318 1165

• Andrew Brooker Kirwee - 027 432 6176

• Stu Lill Kirwee - 03 347 6770

• Anthony Dalzell Coalgate - 027 240 6501

PAINTING/DECORATING

MORTGAGE BROKER

firsthomeloan,buyinganew home, investmentpropertyor a property development? I deal with all the lenders, and Icangetyouthebestdealto suityou. I have 30+yearsof lending experience, and I am local. I can come to you.

Alan Lover Loan Market 027 2516644. I bring the bankstoyou.

PLUMBER WANTED

LOCAL LOCAL LOCAL plumber wanted for small alteration job in Hororata.Pleasecall022643 6617.

Suffolk Cross Ram

• Proven producer.

• Excellent temperament.

• Ideally suited for lifestyle property. Please phone: 021 149 8108

Brandesburton Texel Stud

Contact Murray Shipley

Phone: 0274448882

Email: murraybshipley@gmail.com

OFFICE TO RENT

Office for rent in Darfield

Located in an existing rural business in Bray Street. Your office is exclusive to you,, small room size suitable as a single office. Rent could be on daily, weekly, or monthly basis. Includes access to Fibre Broadband, boardroom, kitchen, bathroom with shower and off-street parking. Call Jackie on 027 568 1855

SITUATION VACANT

Darfield owned and operated since 2008.

control requirements!

0800 667 778

ROOF MAINTENANCE

MOSS MOSS MOSS MOSS control, silicone seal (waterproofing), spouting clean&repairs,birdproofing, spider&flycontrol.Roofleak repairs (incl Butynol) all roof &spoutingtypesincl2storey work! Call Arthurs Roof & Property Services, 6 days. 03 3472635or0275847980.

ROOM TO RENT

ROOM ROOM to rent. Unfurnished. $120 per week + power. Windwhistle area. Please phone0278626594.

SINGLE SINGLE lockable rooms in Darfield Hostel. Internet, Sky TV. $180pw. Please phone 027 479 1431 or 318 3660.

SCRAP METAL

WANTED! WANTED! WANTED! Amalgamated Scrap Ltd. Buying cars & farm machinery.Specialisinginfarm clean-ups. Best prices Rod McQuoid - buyer. Please phoneeither0276950480or alternatively0800030712.

SHEEP SHEARING

SITUATION WANTED

EXPERIENCED EXPERIENCED EXPERIENCED EXPERIENCED stockman looking for work. Tractor driving experience. GST registered. Please phone 0225747805

WANTED TO BUY

MOTORCYCLES MOTORCYCLES MOTORCYCLES Japanese only, 1960-1980’s. Up to 500cc. For restorations and parts. Rusty/derelict/broken anything considered. Phone 0226436617.

TOOLS TOOLSTOOLS TOOLS wanted - mechanics, engineering, wood working etc. Garage, shed, barn clearances, deceased estates etc. Please phone Rob on 033425885.

WINDOW CLEANING

COUNTRY TOUCH

WINDOW CLEANING

Friendly, reliable experienced. Darfield & Surrounding areas.

Ph: 027 316 9968

West Melton area Ph: 021 025 19197

TINT-A-WINDOW

Solar Protective films. Fade UV block. Heat Glare control. Privacy. Safety/ Security. Frosted films. Free online quotes. Ph 0800 368 468. info@tintawindow.co.nz www.tintawindow.co.nz

• Dead cars

• End of life cars

• Scrap cars

• Old farm vehicles

TRADES TRADES

CARPENTER CARPENTER available for all renovations and repairs. Phone Grant 021 167 1718 anytime.

WANT WANTWANT WANTItWelded-Mobilewelder can come to you. All types of welding done. Help support small new business. Phone 02102890736.

TRADES

0277

KITCHENS KITCHENS - new or renovate existing with new doors and bench tops, wardrobes, laundries, vanities made to size. Built-in bookcases and wall units, melamineor timber desks, buffets, tables or any furniture. Great prices and advice. Please phone Lex 027 4393926or3490150.

Tiler

Water Proofer

Phone 03 318 1973 or 027 421 1637

e: bowentiling@gmail.com

Simon O’Connell • Certifying Plumber

M: 021 048 4799

E: simon@rpsltd.co.nz

Darfield based, working Canterbury wide. AllMaintenance,HotWaterCylinders,Logburners, Spouting,RainwaterHarvest,Wetbacks,Pumps, Alterations(newandexisting)

A prince was put under a spell so that he could speak only one word each year. If he didn’t speak for two years, the following year he could speak two words and so on. One day, he fell in love with a beautiful lady. He refrained from speaking for two whole years so he could call her “my darling.” But then he wanted to tell her he loved her, so he waited three more years. At the end of these five years, he wanted to ask her to marry him, so he waited another four years.

Finally, as the ninth year of silence ended, he led the lady to the most romantic place in the kingdom and said, “My darling, I love you! Will you marry me?”

And the lady said, “Pardon?”