NEW OWNERS, NEW ERA
Disability of the Year Page 8
The new owners of Darfield bakery, Jonny and Kate Lang and Angus and Nicole Lang, are keeping it local and in the family.
Jonny and Kate are Darfield locals – Kate works at ChristchurchHospital Oncology department as a radiation therapist and Jonny farms in Hororata. Their children Elliott and Addison attend Darfield PrimarySchool.
Angus and Nicole farm at Rakaia Gorge and their four children, Bernie, Dorothy, Betty and Delilah attend WindwhistleSchool.
Both families are actively involved in the local sporting community including helping to coach and manage both senior and junior rugby teams, with the children all participating in various other sports such as touch, hockey, netball,andequestrian.
Nicole says she has some hospitality experience when shehelpedwithHRPayrolland accountswhenGusandJonny’s eldest brother, Chris Watkins, and the late Keren, owned VerdeinGeraldine.
She says, “We are looking forward to having Chris as part of our support network and be abletohonourKeren’smemory withsomeofherrecipes.”
Nicole says they had been looking at various businesses for a while, across different industries. “However, the Darfield Bakery’s familyfriendly ethos; thriving business; skilled team and locality was a no brainer. What started as a bit of a joke and a passing comment – ‘we should buy the Bakery’ – has turned into an exciting roller coaster. ThankfullyIfindcomfortinthe
uncomfortable and we love newchallenges.”
Jonny, Kate, Angus and Nicole love the fact that the Bakery is a central hub in Darfield for localsorthosepassingthrough and are looking forward to picking up the reins from
Daryl, Nicki, Josh and Joe and “gallopingoff”.
Plans for the future involve getting to know and understandthebusiness.
“Then we will integrate some excitingadditionstothemenu, team, and our customers,” says
Kate. “If you don’t already followusonsocialmedia,flick us a like to hear about the initial “pie of the month” for February– a new and exciting recipe the team will be creating.”
Continueonpage Continueonpage3…. 3….3….
Hororata Golf Tournament Page 11
New owners Jonny, Kate, Angus and Nicole look forward to meeting customers, both regular and new at the Darfield Bakery. Photo: Kathryn Taylor Photography
Old Selwyn Plantation Board House Page 4
ANNABEL’S EDUCARE & 3 YR & 4 YR OLD KINDERGARTENS 12-16 South Tce,
• Educare Ph 318 7943
NEWS IN BRIEF
The Stop/Go works on SH73 are planned to operate between27/1and31/1.
On Friday, January 24, there will be a Stop/Go on SH73 to begin watermain installation. The wastewater works will follow on Monday, January 27.
During these works, McMillian Street will become a one-way system to keep the car parks open. Once clear of the highway, there will be twoA DARFIELD SEWER A DARFIELD SEWER A DARFIELD SEWER A DARFIELD SEWER RETICULATION AND RETICULATION RETICULATIONAND AND RETICULATION AND WATERMAIN RENEWALS WATERMAIN WATERMAINRENEWALS
HAVE A GO SESSION
three weeks of road closure on McMillian Street for pipe thrusting under the railway line. This starts on Monday, February3. This work is the next stage of the roll out of the wastewater system to service Darfield and Kirwee, which the Council approved as part of the 2021/31 Long Term Plan. Currently only constructing pipework is needed to service new developments, which was approved as part of the 2024/34 Long Term Plan and is funded by development contributions collected from newlyconstructedproperties.
• 3 Year Ph 318 7948
• 4 Year Ph 318 8843 EDUCARE Opening Hours 7:30am - 5pm
Children and adults are invited to ‘Have a Go’ at playing a range of instruments including the violin, cello, guitar, ukulele, recorder, flute, keyboard and much more. The session will be held on Saturday, January 25 from 10 am to 11 am at Darfield Library.
Tutors from the Malvern School of Music (based in Darfield) will be at the library to assist and answer any queries. This is also an opportunity for adults who are thinking of joining the Darfield Ukulele Group to try out the ukulele and find out more information.
Homeowners living in West Melton areas can hopefully look forward to better cellphonecoverageifthethree telecommunication providers, Spark, One New Zealand and 2degrees come through with their promises to build new towers and upgrade existing ones over the next 12 months. Local residents are adopting a ‘wait and see’ approach as to whether connectivity will be improved and motorists travelling on the Old West Coast Road to and from Christchurch will also be hoping for better coverage as there are ‘blind spots’ leading to and from the West Melton area.
Selwyn MP Nicola Grigg says she has been actively advocating for improved connectivity for residents and, as a result, all three telecommunications providers havebeenbuildingnewtowers to support the district’s rapid growth.
Bring the whole whānau along to meet the local emergency service heroes and explore their impressive vehicles up close on Sunday 26 January, 11am - 3pm at Rolleston Community Centre. Enjoy live entertainment, interactive activities for all ages, equipment demonstrations and more!
NEW OWNERS, NEW ERA
...continuedfromfrontpage. ...continuedfromfrontpage.
LOCAL CUSTOMERS CUSTOMERS
THE BEST THE BEST THE BEST THE BEST
Nicky and Daryl Collier are hanging up their apron strings with the sale of the Darfield Bakery. The new owners take over on Monday, February 3. Co-owners Joe Daly and Josh Petersenwillcontinuewiththe bakery until the end of the year.
Nicky and Daryl bought the business in 1995 and initially thought they would buy the bakery in the hope that in five
yearstheywouldmakeenough moneytogofarming.
That was 30 years ago. During that time, the couple have seen the township and surrounding communities grow along with a large increase in tourism.
“We originally had no seating options available and soon found this was a necessity,” says Nicky. After the 2010 earthquake, the bakery was inundated with customers, which soon lead to the start of the business’ expansion, eventuallydoublinginsize.
SHOW SUCCESS
Charlise Miller and her horse, RP Providence, took the recent Duvauchelle A&P show by storm when the pair won Supreme Horse and Pony, Supreme Horse, Champion Park Hack and Best Rider on a Park Hack or Hack.
Charlise says it was her second year competing at the Duvauchelle show and one she will never forget. “Waking up at 4:45am on the show day was all worth it in the end.”
“I just want to say a big thank you to all the people in the Duvauchelle A&P community for an amazing show and thank Jordy Thompson and family for taking RP Providence and me to the show.”
Co-owners Joe and Josh came on the scene as after-school clean-up boys, and when they decided to leave school, Daryl o ered them a baking apprenticeship, which was eagerlyaccepted.
“After completing their apprenticeships and being under our employment for 15 years,wedecidedtoo erthem each a share of the business,” says Nicky. “They have now been with us coming up 23 years.”
Local customers have been a huge part of the bakery’s success.
“Like any business, we have had some big highs and some lows, but overall, we are very proud that we have managed to build a business for the whole community to enjoy,” says Nicky. “We’ve also had customers visit from the other side of the world saying they were told they had to visit the Darfield Bakery on their travels.”
Celebrities provided many photo opportunities with visits to the bakery including prime minister John Key, Richie Mccaw, and the Topp Twins.
- SERVICING NORTH CANTERBURY -
Domestic Pest Control Specialists!
Brian & Rose Walker 0800 667 778 www.spiderban.com
‘Owned and operated in Darfield since 2008’
DARFIELD’S SELWYN PLANTATION BOARD SITE
By Matt Williams. By Matt Williams. By Matt Williams. By Matt Williams.
On the north eastern side of Darfield, Ross and Faye Saunders are developing commercial sites on land once the home of the Selwyn PlantationBoard.
Our McHughs forest park on the opposite side of the village, first planted in 1893, was part of 6400ha of forestry entrusted to the Board in 1910.Theseincludedstandsof pinus radiata, pinus insignis, douglas fir, wattle and eucalypts.
A home for the first superintendent, Mr R G Robinson and o ce for administration was established by 1917. In this period the state-owned Balmoral and Eyrewell forests were planted inNorthCanterbury. By 1919 revenues from the plantations established between the Waimakariri and the Rakia rivers were enabling the establishment of further plantations.
Under the Boards care McHugh’s plantation had selected logging and windfall management. With the help of local mills windfall harvesting of damaged plantations was a significant task for the board over the years. The August 1975 nor-westerly gale was particularly devasting for Canterbury plantations. After this storm, 0.5 million cubic meters of timber was salvaged inSelwynalone. The brick clad administration buildingwasconstructedinthe late 1940s, with two extensions being added during
its working life. Administration was supported from Christchurch until 1948. This building was since been utilised by Rainer irrigation as their Malvern o ce for some years.
In 1989, the board became a limited liability company a subsidiary of Christchurch City Holdings and Selwyn District Council. In 2011, the forestry assets were sold to Matariki Forests Limited. Following insolvencyin2013,theSelwyn Plantation Company was liquidatedin2014.
It isnotablethat inthefirst 80 years there were only three managers, Messer’s Robinson, CooneyandStudholme.
Over the one hundred years the Board existed it delivered great forestry outcomes to the plains and provided employment to locals. It also provided exceptional returns to the shareholders (us ratepayers).
Following in the footsteps of my father, (some 30 years on), my first holiday job was with the Board–planting out behind
therippersofaD8caterpillar.I couldn't believe my ears when encountering the big cats on that first frosty May morning –making a noise like a lawn mower, whilst generating a thinplumeinthecoldair.
Little did I know that these were the starter pony motors warming up before cranking thebigdieselstolife!
I am often asked why Darfield is on the weather reports? My answer, is that a weather station was established in 1910 and diligently reported on by Board sta and local people, maintaining the Met Service log book, until it's recentautomation.
Thesuperintendentshouseand the o ce are largely hidden in the established trees that surround them. They have recently had a make-over by Birchfield Holdings, the current owners, assuring their survival forafewmoreyearstocome. Both the house and o ce are available to rent through Liz and Murray from Property Brokers in Rolleston - phone 039290306.
The original home for the first Selwyn Plantation Board superintendent, Mr R G Robinson, and (below) the office for administration, is now owned by Birchfield Holdings.
ARTHUR’S PASS AT NEW YEAR
The Arthur’s Pass community kicked off 2025 with their annual summer series of free events, which has been running for over 50 years and is supported by several local and conservation organisations.
The Council’s contribution through the Selwyn Community Fund helps cover extra costs that continue to enhance the summer programme, supporting the tradition that brings locals and bach holders together over theNewYearperiodtoexplore the beauty of the Arthur’s Pass National Park on their doorstep.
Fi Neale, event organiser for 2025 says the programme is a great chance to remind people of local conservation efforts around our kea, kiwi and back country huts and share local history.
“It also gives people the opportunity to experience the NationalParkwithenthusiastic and knowledgeable locals. The
Community Fund is great because it enables participants to take part in activities with no cost and with quality materials.”
Shesaysthisyear’sprogramme was very successful with lots ofeventsthatawidevarietyof people could enjoy, from guided walks to crafts and story time. Over 30 people attended the quiz night which was a great event with lots of laughs and fun prizes donated kindly by locals and from Fire and Emergency NZ and Forest andBirdNorthCanterbury.
Some of the other popular events included the alpine pirate treasure hunt, and the miniature back country hut building.
If you’re looking for something to do over the next New Year period, add the Arthur’s Pass summer programme to your calendar.
To learn more about the To learn more about the To about the To about the Selwyn Community Fund, Selwyn Fund, please visit please visit please visit please visit selwyn.govt.nz/ selwyn.govt.nz/ funding. funding. funding. funding.
MY FUTURE TOWN - SELWYN
What's an Area Plan and why an Area Plan do we need one? we need one?
Area Plans are spatial plans that outline growth, development and change for specific areas within the district. The three areas of the Selwyn District that we have spatialplansforare:
• EasternSelwyn
• Malvern
• Ellesmere
Selwyn is growing rapidly. Each area plan will set out a 30-year framework for sustainable growth and development.It willbecreated by working with local communities, businesses and other key stakeholders to identify how local townships should grow and develop in the future. The area plans will considerissuestodowithlocal townships such as growth and development, the character of towns, and transport and infrastructure. Theywilllookat:
• Howtownshipsin Ellesmere,Malvernand
Easterncoulddevelopover thenext30years
• What’sspecialabouteach town,andwhatfeatures andcharacteristicsshould beretainedastheygrow
• Howtownsworktogether, andwherehousing, businesses,openspaceand communityfacilitiescould belocatedinthefuture
• Whatinfrastructureis neededindi erentareas
When exploring ideas for your future town there are six areas to think about when imagining youridealfuturetown.
• Blue-Greenareas(parks, riversandnature
• Housing-wherethiscould goandwhatthismaylook like
• PeopleandCommunities (libraries,pools,halls, schoolsandhealthcare
• EconomicDevelopment (shops,jobsandindustrial areas
• Transport(roads,buses, freightandcycleways)
• Infrastructure(water,pipes, internetandquarries).
The area plan process won’t specifically rezone any land, but it will inform the Selwyn District Plan review, future Long Term Plan processes, other Council management plans and strategies, as well as privately-initiated plan changerequests.
When considering comments and ideas Council would like toknow:
• Whatdoyoulikeornot likeaboutyourtownor arearightnow?
• Whatneedsfixingortobe improved?
• Whatnewideasdoyou suggest?
• WhatdoesCouncilneedto knoworshouldconsiderin developingAreaPlans?
See advert below for See advert for upcoming area plan workshops details as well as workshops details as well as upcoming drop upcoming upcomingdrop drop drop--in venues. in invenues. venues. in venues. Visit selwyn.govt.nz/ Visit selwyn.govt.nz/ selwyn.govt.nz/ selwyn.govt.nz/ futuretown for more futuretown for more futuretown for futuretown for information. information.
Please contact us to make an appointment in
Kate
Warren Partner
Mobile: 027 384 3054
Email: kate.warren@tp.co.nz
Rolleston & Darfield: 03 317 9099
Christchurch: 03 374 9999
Darfield office open: Mon & Thurs, 9 - 5pm or by appointment
ASHBURTON ROLLESTON CHRISTCHURCH
Conveyancing, Refinancing, Leasing & Property Transactions, Land Acquisitions, Boundary Adjustment & Subdivision, Insurance Law, Occupation Right Agreements, Estate & Succession Planning, including Enduring Powers of Attorney, Trusts & Wills.
“ ““
“Can we transfer assets to a Can we transfer assets to a Can we transfer to trust, to deprive an estate of trust, wealth, with the ultimate with the ultimate intention of defeating a intention of defeating a a a Family Protection Act Family Protection Act Family Protection Act Family Protection Act claim? claim? claim? claim?” ”” ”
The Supreme Court has released its much-anticipated decisioninthe“AlphabetCase’, A,BandCvDandELimitedas TrusteesoftheZTrust.
The extent to which parents have a moral obligation to provide for their children on death has long been contentious and debated. In the Alphabet Case, the High Court initially held that a father had a fiduciary duty to his children not to transfer his assets into a trust in order to defeat a claim by his children. This decision was overturned bytheCourtofAppealin2022. The Supreme Court has recently released its judgment confirming the Court of Appeal decision.
The appellants, A, B and C, took action against their father
for depriving them of his assets on his death by establishing a Trust and transferring the majority of his assets (worth approximately $700,000), to the Trust during his lifetime. A, B and C are not beneficiaries of the Trust. The assetsremaininginthefather’s estate, against which A, B and C may claim under the Family Protection Act 1955, were of modest value at around $47,000.
A,BandCarguedthatbecause their father abused them when they were children, he owed fiduciary duties to them which extended beyond their childhood; and by transferring the majority of his assets into the Trust in order to prevent them from benefiting from his assets on his death, he had breached his fiduciary obligations.
Theappellantswereultimately seeking the reversion of the assets to the father’s estate to fulfil the Family Protection Act
HOW TO CHECK YOUR
A credit report (or record) is a chronicle of your financial journey. It includes any payment defaults etched against your name and reveals yourcreditrating.
Your credit rating is a score ranging from 0 to 1,000, bestowed upon you by credit
claims that they made against hisestate.
The law in relation to the coincidence of fiduciary and family relationships is not settled in New Zealand. The Court held that in this case the “fiduciary relationship between parent and child ended when the father ceased to care for the children. The transfer to the Trust was not a breach of fiduciaryduty.”
Whilst the Court was sympathetic to the appellants, it found that to impose fiduciary duties in an attempt to remedy previous wrongdoing outside of an ongoing relationship between the parties would “read equity backwards” by “reverse engineering” a remedy. The Court found that the law could not support the appellants claim and therefore upheld the Court of Appeal’s 2022 decision.”
CREDIT RECORD
reporting agencies, based on your credit history. The higher your score, the more favourable your rating is. Businesses, banks and landlords may peruse your credit report to ascertain their willingness to engage in businesswithyou.
You are entitled to free access to your credit record, and typicallyitwillarrivewithin10 days of applying for it. Should you desire it sooner (within three working days), a fee may apply. A credit reporting
agency cannot charge you more than $10 (inclusive of GST) for processing your request.
For a full check, apply to each of these agencies: Centrix, illionandEquifax.
For more information, visit: www.cab.org.nz/article/ KB00001773
If you need, help with this, If you need, help with this, with with or any other issue, not other matter how big or small, big then Citizens Advice Bureau then Citizens Advice Bureau Citizens Advice Citizens Advice Christchurch is here to help. Christchurch is here to help. here to help. here to help.
DARFIELD
BRAVE FOSTERS CONFIDENCE AND RESILIENCE
The BRAVE confidence workshops held at Flow Studio in Methven last week have once again been a resounding success, drawing children from schools across Canterbury, including the Malvern area, to develop vital social and emotional skills. Through dynamic group activities, the workshops nurture collaboration, self-expression, and resilience, providing a safe and supportive environment for childrentoexploretheirindividualitywhileembracing thevalueofteamwork.
FoundedbyKatiaShields,BRAVEo ersschoolholiday workshops, in-school programs, and one-on-one sessions, all designed to build confidence and resilience in children. Over its four years, the program’s popularity has grown significantly, now attracting participants from across the region. Feedback from children and parents has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing how much they enjoyed connecting with others outside theirusualschoolenvironment.
A standout activity during the Methven workshops involved creating collaborative nature art. This exercise became a powerful metaphor for teamwork and mutual respect, teaching participants to express their ideas while valuing the contributions of others. Theresultingsharedachievementsfosteredasenseof prideandcommunity.
The diversity of children attending, including those traveling from Malvern and beyond, brought fresh perspectives, built new friendships, and broadened horizons. Watching children leave with beaming smiles and a renewed sense of self-worth is a testament to the program’s success. The BRAVE confidence workshops continue to empower young minds, demonstrating the transformative power of connectionandcreativity.
WONDERFUL ACHIEVEMENT
Hazel Littlejohn was both honoured and humbled to receive the Award for NZ Disability Player of the Year at the Summerset National Disability Tournament held Browns Bay Bowling Club, North Shore after the first round of finals on January 2-9, 2025.
When asked what the award meant to her, Hazel says, “It was nice to feel appreciated for what I have achieved. During training for Scotland,overthewinter,Ihad to learn about me and understand how my disability a ects how I perform. Appreciating my disability, overcoming being very visual and aware of what is going on around me, where it has been a hindrance to try to focus on my game in the past. My bowls has improved, and I now understand myself more. I have always been a person who likes to commit to tasks, throw myself in,showthatitcanbedone.”
In her early years, Hazel had experienced being pushed away from doing things in school, ‘because she is deaf’, which knocked her confidence, but she always had a burning
desirethatshecoulddoit,that itcouldbedone.
“Since being President, I have hadtostepupagain,outofmy comfort zone, lead, assist and be the face of Deaf Lawn BowlsNZ.”
Hazel says that she hopes that receiving her award will also help create awareness, inspire people and push them out of their comfort zone and overcome the barrier of socialinteraction.
“I would like to thank Bowls Darfield for their support in nominating me for this award,” says Hazel. “Also, to Ashley Paul, for working with me in not only coaching techniques but also spending the time working on the mental side of thegame.”
Deaf Bowls are always on the lookout for hard of hearing/ deaf bowlers. If anyone is interested, email Hazel on halj1962@gmail.com.
APPRECIATION SHOWN FOR FIRE SERVICE VOLUNTEERS
The Darfield Residents Association recently wanted to show the appreciation of locals for the work put in by Darfield Fire Service volunteers and the disruption to their family life. Accordingly, the group organised a bus trip for Brigade members and families to the Air Force Museum at Wigram, followed by a picnic lunch at the Christchurch Botanical Gardens. DRA Chairman Harvey Polglase says, “The commitment of time and effort by volunteers and their families is much appreciated and helps strengthen and protect our community. This is one way we can thank them for their efforts.”
The enjoyable day out was made possible with assistance from Selwyn District Council, Four Square, and Johnny Fresh.
Hazel Littlejohn with her award for NZ Disability Player of the Year. The award was presented to her by Phillip Huwyler, President of Para Bowls and Bowls New Zealand.
Gracey Taylor of Darfield is supported by other children through the “electric hoop” at the BRAVE workshop held in Methven recently.
DARFIELD VOLUNTEER FIRE BRIGADE REPORT
By Jason Clemens, By Jason Clemens, Jason Jason Deputy Chief Fire O cer. Deputy Chief O
The Darfield Volunteer Fire Brigade would like tostarttheyearo withafewthankyous.
Firstly, thank you to the Darfield Residents Association who recently o ered to take members and families for a day trip to the Wigram Air Force Museum. From that o er there were a total of 22 who enjoyed the tour and lunch. A huge thank you to the organisers from all of us, the feedback from everyone has beenverypositiveandthankful.
In the lead up to Christmas, Thirsty Acres in Kirwee invited FENZ personnel including Darfield to a thank you evening for the e orts put in during the Waimakariri River wildfires. We would like to thank Thirsty Acres and DB Breweries for putting on the food and refreshments, it was much appreciated by all involved.
On December 14, we ran our annual Can Drive collecting food for the Darfield Food Bank. The Fire Brigade would like to thank all who donated food and other items. The amount of food collected grows each year, which is a testamenttotheDarfieldcommunity.
2024 was certainly a busy year for the Brigade with a total turnout tally of 175 to 142 separate incidents. This number is a big increase on previous years due to the integrationofourwatertankertotheautomatic turnout system. The tanker now covers an initial turnout area that now includes the area up to Arthurs Pass in the west and the View Hill, Woodstock areas in the Waimakariri district.
VOLUNTEERS WANTED VOLUNTEERS VOLUNTEERSWANTED WANTED VOLUNTEERS WANTED
With this additional work for the tanker, increasing frequency of wildfires and development of the Darfield township, it is timely to encourage anyone that is interested in volunteering for FENZ Darfield to put your hand up and make contact. We are on the hunt for
personnel that are able to respond during daytimehours.
This of course is highly dependent on your employer’sabilitytoreleasesomeonewhenthe siren goes o , however people such as shift workers, self-employed, people working from home and stay at home parents can also find themselves in the position to be able to drop everything when called upon during the day. If you are able and keen to help maintain Darfield’s ability to provide 24/7 emergency responsecoverage,we wouldloveto hear from you.
You can find more information at You can find more information at You can find You can find fireandemergency.nz/work fireandemergency.nz/work fireandemergency.nz/work--or oror or--volunteer volunteer volunteer--for forfor for--us us us or contact Jason Clemens on 027 632 9551 Jason Clemens 632 9551 or Stefan Wesley on 021 026 1506. Stefan Wesley on 026 1506.
RESTRICTED SEASON RESTRICTED RESTRICTEDSEASON SEASON
Recently Canterbury’s fire season status changed back to RESTRICTED. This means for the vast majority of outdoor fires you will requireapermit.Ifyouwanttostartanoutdoor fire,pleasecheckthecheckitsalright.nzwebsite before you light. From here you can apply for your permit. By obtaining a permit the Fire Communications Centre will know the location and time of the burn which gives them the ability to contact the primary contact in the event of a 111 call. If you are planning a burn in a RESTRICTED or OPEN fire season, we have a few “Controlled Burn” signs for members of thepublictoborrowwhileexecutingtheburn. If you would like to borrow these please If you like borrow please contact Jason Clemens on 027 632 9551 or contact Jason Clemens 027 632 or Stefan Wesley on 021 026 1506 . Wesley 026 1506 Keepsafeoutthere.
Macdon M155
A40-D Grass Seed Header 15 & 20ft Draper Headers available
KIDS RETURNING TO SCHOOL SOON
With over 12,000 Selwyn learners travelling back to school soon, our Road Safety team would like to remind everyone to keep their eyes peeled for our young people on foot and on wheels. Parents and whānau are encouraged to remind their children to stay alert and avoid using devices or headphones while enroute to and from school Motorists are urged to slow down and get into the habit of going 30km/hr past schools and 20km/hr past stationary school buses.
Road safety resources can be organised through your school or Council by emailing roadsafety@selwyn.govt.nz
GLIDING ALONG ON THE GHAN
By Trish Hall. By Trish Hall. Trish Trish InMay2024weflewtoDarwin
and after three full days there we boarded the Ghan, the luxury 1km long silver streak, which arrives in Adelaide three days later, after a journey of 3,000 kms through the barren heartofAustralia.
HOMEKILL PROCESSING SERVICE
Paddock to Plate Service
While in Darwin we enjoyed a full day out in the Litchfield National Park with stops for refreshments, inspiring views of craggy escarpments, swimming in the pools and waterfalls. We were amused at the signs that crocs were unlikely to be around! In the wet season, the ‘salties’ swim inland many miles from the sea, hence warning signs aboutswimming–ornot.Back near our hotel, we bought takeaways from the night market and sat on the sand to watch the sun dipping below thehorizon.
The first stop o the train was at Katherine for the Nitmiluk Gorge river cruise. Spectacular cli s dwarfed us on either side and the commentaryexplained thesignificanceoftheNitmiluk to the indigenous Jawoyn people and the many stories that celebrate their spiritual connectiontothegorge.
Alice Springs is a pleasant town surrounded by low hills wheretherearemanypointsof interest including the reptile centre and School of the Air. Dinner was outside at historic Telegraph Station under the star-spangled sky – and a camel ride as an optional extra.
Coober Pedy is 40 kms from the Manguri Siding, where the train stopped in the middle of nowhere. We were taken by bus to the Breakaways for a panoramic view of the flattopped mesas that once
presided over an inland sea. The little town has been built mostly underground because of the intense heat of summer and still attracts thehopeful in search of riches from opal hunting. The subterranean place of worship, the Serbian Orthodox Church, was chiselled from the earth. Its stained-glass windows, above ground, make it Coober Pedy’s most awe-inspiring structure. We spent time in an underground mine, which includedlunchanda chanceto view and purchase opals. Back at the train we were treated to yetanothergorgeoussunset.
If you salivate at the thought of bu alo dumplings, camel kofta, kangaroo or barramundi ceviche for dinner – followed byanespressomartini–thisis thetripforyou.
The Ghan, a 1km long train that travels across Australia from Darwin to Adelaide, stops at Manguri Siding, where passengers were taken by bus to Coober Pedy just 40 kms away.
Photo: Trish Hall
GREAT CONDITIONS FOR TOURNAMENT
Name NameName HdcpIdx(Crse) Club ClubClub Club Stbfd
AdrianBlood
The informa(on and opinions published are not necessarily those of the Malvern News proprietor. The final approval of le,ers for print, rests with the editor. Le,ers to the Editor should be no more than 200 words in length. Le,ers to the Editor won’t be considered for publica(on without the writer’s name (given and surname) and area of residence (not address) also being printed. Le,ers wri,en using a pseudonym, are unable to be published.
TotheEditor:
As per published in Press Tuesday, January 7 – written by journalistMaxineJacobs.
I read with disbelief that the majority of councillors of the Selwyn District Council wrote to the Government asking them to drop the Treaty Principles Bill. According to the Press article published on the 7/1/2025, some councillors strongly argued against this as it undermines the Council’s obligation to the peopletheyaremeanttorepresent.
Regardlessofwhetheryousupportoropposethebill,whatgives this Council the right to decide what we want on this important matter? I understand the Council have to make many decisions withpublicconsultation.
Nev Croy, Sheffield.
The Individual Stableford Tournament held at Hororata GolfCourseonSunday,January 12 started in light drizzle but then held o for most of the day so 123 players could get out on the course for a day of funandcompetition. Competitors came fromfar and wideincludingMartinborough.
Hororata Golf Club secretary Jodie Monk says, “It was a fantastic tournament with great conditions. Thanks to Greenkeeper Andrew Bell and his team of helpers, the organisers, volunteers, our major sponsors, and to Cafe on theGreeninGlentunnel,NZfor theirwonderfulpostgolffood.”
Response from Sam Broughton, Mayor of SDC.
Response from Broughton, Mayor of SDC.
The Selwyn District Council regularly makes submissions on legislationthatcouldimpactouroperationsandthewellbeingof our community. We work hard to represent the best interests of all residents, though we acknowledge that not all decisions will alignwitheveryone’sperspective.
As part of our commitment to fostering strong, productive relationships, we actively collaborate with mana whenua, as outlined in the Council’s bi-cultural strategy. The success of this strategy has led to better, more e cient outcomes for our community, and we are concerned that the proposed Treaty Principles Bill may jeopardize the momentum we have worked hardtobuild.
Enjoying a competitive day out on the Hororata Golf Course is Mary, Tony and Simon Edwards.
The Hororata golf course is in great condition thanks to Andrew Bell and his team of helpers.
RIDDLES & BRAIN TEASERS
1. What has four fingers and a thumb, but is not living?
2. What starts with T, ends with T, and has T in it?
3. What kind of ship has two mates but no captain?
4. Ask this ques on all day long, but always get completely different answers, and yet all the answers will be correct. What is the ques on?
5. What loses its head in the morning but gets it back at night?
6. I have a head like a cat and feet like a cat, but I am not a cat. What am I?
7. What has hands but cannot clap?
8. Paul's height is six feet, he's an assistant at a butcher's shop, and wears size 9 shoes. What does he weigh?
9. Throw away the outside and cook the inside, then eat the outside and throw away the inside. What is it?
10. What is at the end of a rainbow?
11. What kind of tree can you carry in your hand?
12. They come out at night without being called, and are lost in the day without being stolen. What are they?
13. What is always in front of you, but can’t be seen?
14. You’ll find me in Mercury, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn and Uranus. But never Neptune, or Venus. What am I?
15. How many months have 28 days?
16. I can be cracked, made, told and played. What am I?
17. I cannot talk, but I always reply when spoken to. What am I?
ANSWERS ON PAGE 14
Wellness Flow Yoga
MEN’S 8 WEEK COURSE Commences Tues 4th Feb 2025
Where: Darfield Library
Time 5.30 - 6.30pm
“Yoga is more than just poses.
It’s a way to find peace within yourself”
Txt or call 027 200 9729 or mobilityfourU@yahoo.com
POSITIVE PILATES
8 Week Course Commencing
Monday: 3rd Feb - 6-7pm (Advanced)
Wednesday: 5th Feb - 9:30-10:30am Classes are held at Darfield Library Classes are Darfield Library
Tobookaspacecallortxt0272009729or Tobookaspacecallortxt0272009729or email:mobilityfourU@yahoo.com email:mobilityfourU@yahoo.com
Webster, Lorraine Margaret (nee Edgington)
Milne, Shane, Angela, Michele and their families wish to extend their heartfelt thanks for the compassion, kindness and support given to them with Lorraine’s passing.
ARE ARE your accounts taking up valuable time you’d rather spend growing your business or with your family? Let the team at Sterling Accountants handle your accounting and tax compliance—right here on your doorstep. Call AnnMaree at Malvern Business Hub:0212150981.
BUSINESS COACHING
GROW GROWGROW GROW your business with NZ Life Coaching NZ. Helping with Business Improvement and Career Development. Unlock your potential and transform your life. Contact KieronMcGhie0212768311, www.newlifecoachingnz.com or send an email to newlifecoachingnz@gmail.com
Pilates enhances balance, strength, posture, core, flexibility& breathing, & also mindfulness, well-being & Inner peace. (Limited numbers) (Limited numbers) (Limited numbers) (Limited numbers)
Your cards and messages of sympathy, flowers, baking and presence at Lorraine’s service have been very much appreciated as has your continued love and support.
BUSINESS CARDS
NEED NEEDNEED NEED carpet? Go local! Very competitive pricing, seldom beaten. 30 years servicing this area. In home sample service, also repairs and installations. Please ph Alan Roberts0212272080.
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 anysizedopenfire.Wequote and undertake repairs, flue extensions and install bird netting. Please phone us on 021939113.
3pm
RIDDLE ANSWERS from page 12
1. Aglove.
2. Ateapot.
3. Arela onship.
4. What meisit?
5. Apillow.
6. Aki*en.
7. Aclock.
8. Meat.
9. Cornonthecob.
10. Thele*erW!
11. Apalm!
12. Stars!
13. Thefuture.
14. Thele*er“R”.
15. Everymonthhas28 days.
16. Ajoke.
17. Anecho.
BRAIN TEASERS ANSWERS
1. Goingonadiet
2. Topsecret
3. Iunderstand
4. Fourclose
5. Spaceship
6. Backwardsglance
7. Backinfiveminutes
8. LeQovers
9. Yourunderarrest
Kirwee malvernparish.wixsite.com/ malvern-parish
Darfield
DRIVEWAYS
LIFESTYLE LIFESTYLE LIFESTYLE, farm tracks, yards and dairy lanes our speciality. Screened rottenrock, it’s local and lasts better. Phone Springfield Quarryon3184132.
BIRCHFIELD Firewood
Dry, shed stored, naDve wood and kindling. Free delivery to Darfield township for orders over 3 cube.
Coal
20kg bags or 500kg bulk bags.
At 10:30am Steve & Patience Pona Ph: 022 642 5805 17 North Terrace, Darfield
SERVICES
10:30am every Sunday. Darfield Baptist Church 15 Greendale Rd, Darfield 9am, on the 2nd & 4th Sunday of every month. Glenroy Hall Windwhistle Rd, Glenroy
followed by a cuppa
1st &4th Sunday -9:30am TrinityChurch,Darfield
2nd Sunday -9:30am TrinityChurch,Darfield 3rd Sunday -9.30am
Landscape Supplies
pups. 7x Male/ Female 8 weeks old. Loving / Life homes wanted. Phone 0274399318. TINY HOME, TINY HOME, not needed. 7.800x3.700 set up. Toilet, Shower, Kitchenette on steel beam floor. Wheels for placement. Land available 0.8422 Hectares. Phone 027 4399318.KowaiBush.
GARDENING
GENERAL GENERAL garden maintenance in Darfield area. Domestic hedge trimming, pruning, edging, lawns and water blasting. Please phone Kane 0274676613.
MORTGAGE ADVISOR
ARE ARE AREyouinneedofarefinance, 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.
Lots of
Call and see if we have what you need. Phone Annie 027 370 2067.
ROOM TO RENT
SINGLE SINGLE lockable rooms in Darfield Hostel. Internet, Sky TV. $190pw. Please phone 027 479 1431.
&
FIREWOOD & COAL
FIREWOOD
COAL
KITCHEN MANAGER POSITION
DarfieldRugbyClubarecurrently lookingforaKitchenManager Theprimarypurposeofthisroleistocoordinateandsupervisethe running oftheDarfieldRugbyClubkitchenaccordingtofoodsafetystandards. Key Competencies: Self-motivated:Proactivelyimproveclubfunctionsandmanageworkload. Organised:Effectivelyoverseeresponsibilitiesandclubactivities. Flexibility:Adapttoroledemands,especiallyduring thewinterseason. Planning:Identifyoptions,setgoals,andallocateresourcesefficiently. TimeManagement: Meetdeadlineswithoutcompromisingquality. Communication:useclearand effectivewrittenandverbalcommunication. NOTE:Therolemayinvolveadditionalreasonableresponsibilities. Forfulljobdescriptionandtoapplypleaseemail drfcpromotionsmanager@gmail.com
CARPENTER / HAMMER HAND
RuralBuilding SolutionsLtd,alocallyownedand operatedcompanybased inDarfield,specializesin DairySheddesignandconstruction.Withan expandingworkload,particularly inthe Darfield region,we'relookingtoaddaskilledandenthusiastic membertoourteam.
Wehaveapermanent positionforaCarpenter andHammerHand. Weareseekingareliable,motivatedindividualwith acleandriver’slicenseandawillingnesstotravel forwork.
Whilepreviousexperienceis beneficial,weoffer on-the-jobtrainingfortherightcandidate.
If this sounds like you, please either contact, Nigel Hodges on 0274 270 557 or email office@ruralbuilding.co.nz.
RURAL RURAL Tenancy Inspections. Also providing Total Rural and Residential Property Management Solutions. Please phone Rebecca 027 313 2270 or email rebecca@ruraltenancy.co.nz
TRANSPORT
SELWYN SELWYN Shuttles provide safe and reliable transport for young and old, near and far. Call or txt Brad 021776968.
WANTED
AMMUNITION AMMUNITION AMMUNITION and reloading equipment. Powder projectiles, presses etc. Any caliber rifle / shotgun. Anything hunting related. Cash buyer. Please contact Rob033425885.
DEAD DEADDEAD DEAD cars - we buy dead cars, end of life cars, scrap cars, old farm vehicles. Cash paid. Pleasephone0274848121.
WANTED TO BUY
TWO OR THREE TWO THREE TWO OR THREE Ewes, prefer 2 tooths. Phone 027 860 8618 or 318 7374.
TRADES
TRADES
WINDOWS REPAIRS
REPAIRS
Darfield based with over 43 years of local knowledge and experience
TRADES
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.
(Thurs
Mother:“Whyareyouhomefromschoolsoearly?”
Son:“Iwastheonlyonewhocouldanswera ques on.”
Mother:“Oh,really?Whatwastheques on?”
Son:“Whothrewtheeraserattheprincipal.”
Awomantoldamarriagecounsellorthather husband'scomplaintthat heleadsadog'slifeis probablywellfounded. "Hecomesinthe housewithmuddyfeet,"shesaid, "tracksacrossmycleanfloors,barksatnothing, growlsathisfood,andmakes himselfcomfortable onmybestfurniture."