2025 COAST TO COAST
Helping To Get Your Home Ready To Sell Page 7
Heralded as the longest-running multi-sport event in New Zealand, the Kathmandu Coast to Coast held its annual event last weekend with competitors competing in either the two day or one day race from Kumara across the Southern Alps to New Brighton in Canterbury. The 243km challenge includes running, kayakingandcycling.
Alex Hunt was the first Australian to win the race in 30 plus years. Alex moved with his family to New Zealand in January so hecouldtrainontheuniquemountainterrain.
Once again, several locals in the Malvern area took part in this year’s race, some were first timers while others were veterans to the event. With the mountains and rivers in their backyard to train in, it comes as no surprise that many had placings in the prestigiousrace.
TeamCPNZ First Ones To Finish Line TeamCPNZ First Ones To Finish Line TeamCPNZ First To Finish Line TeamCPNZ First To Finish Line
Team CPNZ comprising of Richard Greer (run) of Kirwee and his team Angus Petrie (bike) from Christchurch and Toby Brookes (kayak) from Wellington won the 2 Day, 3 Person Team event.
The team took 11 hours, 55 minutes, and 57 seconds over two days and were the first to run up to the finish line, winning first intheircategory,firstintheirgenderandfirstoverall.
Team CP, and endurance coaching team, had over 40 athletes competing and specialise in working with the Coast to Coast. Theyhave a number ofcoachingoptionsthat range from “a little bit of guidance” to “a one-stop shop.” They will be with you every step of the way, from helping you balance your work and familycommitmentstocheeringyouoverthefinishline.
Ben Wilson Conquers Ben Wilson Conquers ‘ ‘‘ ‘The Longest Day The Longest Day The Longest Day The Longest Day’ ’’ ’
For Ben Wilson, from Kirwee, completing the 1 Day Kathmandu Coast to Coast had been a long-time dream. After competing in the 2 Dayeventthepreviousyear, hedecidedit wastime totake ontheultimatechallenge.
Continuedonpage11….
Ben Wilson, pictured on the run section, competed in the Longest Day Category.
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
Kieran Heenan kph@meareswilliams.co.nz
Anita Molloy-Roberts am@meareswilliams.co.nz W: www.meareswilliams.co.nz T: (03) 374 2547
CALLING ALL YEAR 12 CALLING ALL STUDENTS STUDENTS STUDENTS STUDENTS
NEWS IN BRIEF
Are you passionate about making a di erence and representing Selwyn at the nationallevel?
MP Nicola Grigg looking for a Youth MP to represent our community at Youth Parliament 2025. Held every three years, Youth Parliament provides a unique opportunity to learn about New Zealand’s democratic process, contribute to government decisionmaking, and amplify the voices ofyoungpeople.
Selwyn has a proud history of sending outstanding future leaders to Parliament, and this could be your chance to follow intheirfootsteps.
No prior political experience is needed - just enthusiasm, curiosity, and a desire to make adi erence!
To apply, send either: a short video, or a one-page document
explaining why you would make a great Youth MP to Nicola.GriggMP@parliament.g ovt.nz.
Applications close 28 February 2025. For any enquiries, feel free to contact the same email address.
HOST FARMING FAMILIE HOST FARMING FAMILIE HOST FARMING FAMILIE HOST FARMING FAMILIES S S S NEEDED NEEDED
Darfield High School is looking for host farming families to welcome short-stay Japanese students into their homes. This is a fantastic opportunity to share your way of life, build lasting connections, and showcase our incredible community and our beautiful country.
Hosting is required for short stays for three groups: Feb 24 – March 2, March 12– 15, and May26–28, 2025.Paymentis $85 per student per night; hosts are welcome to take in more than one student
SHEFFIELD POOL WORKING GROUP
The new Sheffield Memorial Pool Working Group consists of Tegan Holdem, Michelle Webster, Katie McCabe, Nigel Easson, Tim O'Toole, Keri Steel and Zara Sandom. The group has a Facebook page – Sheffield Memorial Pool –and supporters are encouraged to visit and follow the page for updates and information on how they can support the swimming pool.
pervisit.
Ifyouareinterestedorwantto learnmore,contactPipDeans, DarfieldHighSchool DevelopmentManager.
Email:rural@darfield.school.nz orphone/text0212797857.
Toxic algae (benthic cyanobacteria) was found to be moderate to high in the Waikirikiri Selwyn River at Whitecli s and Glentunnel as ofJanuary23.
People should avoid these areas, and animals, particularly dogs, should not be allowed near the water until the health warninghasbeenlifted. Exposure may cause skin rashes, nausea, stomach cramps, tingling and numbness around the mouth and fingertips. If you experience any of these symptoms, visit your doctor immediately, also let your doctor know if you’ve had contact with dark brown/ black algal mats or water in thisarea.
Animals that show signs of illness after coming in contact with algal mats or scums should be taken to the vet immediately. In extreme cases, death can occur within 30 minutes of the first signs of illness. Symptoms of toxic algae poisoning in dogs include lethargy, muscle tremors, rapid breathing, twitching, paralysis and convulsions.
Tofindoutwhatriversand lakesaresafetoswimin,visit lawa.org.nz/explore-data/ swimming.
WATCH FOR SCAMS
Police are urging people to be cautious when it comes to buying goods listed for sale on socialmedia/marketplace. Police are investigating several recent reports of people being threatened or assaulted and money and possessions taken from them, when they’ve met with people posing as sellers
ofgoodsonsocialmedia. In an online environment, it can be di cult to verify the person you are dealing with hasgoodintentions.
Police urge anyone buying/ selling on these platforms to exercise caution and if you do experience aggressive behaviour,reportittoPolice.
Here are a number of Here are a number of Here are number of Here are number of suggestions to keep yourself suggestions to keep yourself suggestions to keep yourself suggestions to keep yourself safe: safe: safe: safe:
• Firstandforemost,we recommendusinga reputableonlinesitetobuy orsellitems.
• Ifthetraderinsistson meetingatanunusual locationtomakeasale,be cautious.Itmaybethat theyaresellingstolen itemsordon'twanttobe identifiedforsomeother reason.
• Equally,ifpurchasersare reluctanttomeetinperson orinsistitemsaredropped o atalocation,theymay beavoidingbeingseenor identified.
• Ifyou’remeetinginperson, makesureyou’remeeting inapublicplaceandaway fromanyalleywaysorside streetswheresomeone couldquicklydisappear intoanddon’tgoalone.
• Checkthesocialmedia profileoftheseller.Isita newprofileorrelatively blank?There'sachanceit maybeafakeprofileand aresometimesdeleted afteryou’vepaid.
• Ifyouaretheseller,make surethemoneyisinyour accountbeforesendingor handingo items.
• Asthesayinggoes:ifitis toogoodtobetrue,it probablyis.
If you wish to report a If you wish to report a scam, call 105, or report scam, call 105, or report call 105, call 105, it with us online at it at www.police.govt.nz/use www.police.govt.nz/use www.police.govt.nz/use--105.
EMBRACING DROWNING PREVENTION TECHNOLOGY
Selwyn Aquatic Centre will be the first New Zealand swimming pool to use cuttingedge technology to help keep pooluserssafe.
The new drowning prevention system uses camera and artificial intelligence (AI) technology to scan swimmer activity for signs of potential drowningincidents.
Installation started with one pool in December 2024, with
the full complex to be completed by end of June 2025.
The technology will use 27 cameras across the aquatic centre to track and analyse swimmer movements, alerting lifeguards to possible signs of a swimmer in trouble via waterproof smartwatch technology and dashboards in the lifeguard o ce. The notificationswillshowinwhich
PARTICIPATE
pool the incident is happening andthelocationoftheperson. JamesRichmond,HeadofSport and Recreation, has embraced thenewtechnology.
“The Selwyn Aquatic Centre is our most used site with over 530,000 customers in the past year. Lifeguarding is a challenging role, and this technology is incredibly innovative and is a valuable toolthatwillhelpourqualified
IN THE SELWYN BUSINESS SURVEY
The bi-annual Selwyn Business Survey is a valuable tool for assessing present and future business conditions at a local Selwyn level. The data is analysed with Infometrics quarterly and regional reports and provides a comprehensive analysis of how Selwyn businesses compare in relation tothenationaleconomy.
The survey covers a range of topics including employment and investment trends, recent
business conditions, future outlook, and emerging opportunities. Your first-hand experiences and perspectives will help them to address the unique challenges and opportunities faced by businessesinourcommunity. They value your participation and thank those that contribute to the Selwyn Business Community. Rest assured, your privacy is taken seriously, and your responses
willremainanonymous.
The survey will be open until midnight on Friday, 21 February2025.
*Thedrawincludesa complimentarybusinesssupport sessionfromBusiness Canterbury.Thewinnerwill receiveaninitial60-minuteoneon-onebusinessneeds assessmentwithacustomized supportplan,alongwithtwo additionalfollow-upand implementationsupportsessions.
lifeguards to keeppeople safe. We’re thrilled to be one of the firstusersofthistechnologyin NewZealand.”
The Selwyn District Council began investigating the possibility of introducing the technologyafterapersonhada medical incident while swimming at the centre in 2023. The person was successfully assisted by sta , but they noted it was challenging to see the person due to reflection and glare on the water. A subsequent investigation recommended looking into technology that couldhelpreducethatrisk.
The innovative technology is part of the Council’s new digital strategy to use more technology to improve council operations. “We’re going
digital, and this project is just the beginning – we are committed to doing things di erently, making use of technology and being futurefocused,” says Chief Digital O cer,MattMcGrath. Whilethesystemusescameras andAIsoftwaretodetectsigns of distress before drowning occurs, privacy is also top of mind for the Council, Mr McGrath says. “The system complies with international laws and privacy regulations. TheAIrecordingsareonlyused toidentifybodybehaviours,not record details that could identify people. Recordings are stored on-site and are automatically deleted after seven days. No sta members will have access to the recordings.”
THINKING ABOUT SELLING - WE HELP HOUSES GET READY
Are you thinking about selling your house, but the thought of getting it ready for sale is overwhelming? Is full home styling too expensive or impracticalforyourfamily?
The homeproud is a new Selwyn business bringing affordable styling to homeowners. We work with our clients to create the best version of their house for sale – using their own furniture along with our accessories and signaturestylemagic.
And … families don’t need to move out or pay a fortune for fancyfurniturehire.
What we do What we do
We know home buyers want to see uncluttered, warm, and inviting spaces and that’s our jam. We work closely with homeowners to re-imagine their home using what they
alreadyhave.
First, we remove family clutter to create clear, calm spaces that appeal to buyers. Then we reconfigure furniture to make themostofeachspace –were -arrange (and sometimes remove) furniture to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. And finally, we accessorise becausesometimes it’s the little things that have thebiggestimpact!Weprovide the cushions, throw blankets, vases, artwork and flowers to bringhomethestylemagic!
Our styling plans styling plans
We style homes for real estate photography and up to four open homes. We style in person for the photography session and the first few open homes, then we provide a personalised look book to show homeowners how to
achievethesameresults.
Our styling plans start at $650 for the declutter, reconfigure, and accessorising of the main rooms of a standard house. This price includes our styling, a personalised look book, our accessories,andfreshflowers. Who we are Who we are Who we Who we
We're a local mum and daughter team who LOVE moving furniture, making gorgeous beds, and sprinkling accessories - it's our love language! And we get how hard it is to see the wood for the trees when you're faced with creating calm spaces from years of family living and being.
We can’t guarantee a home sale, but we can make sure your home presents the very bestversionofitselftobuyers. Find out more at Find out more at Find more at Find more at thehomeproud.co.nz, thehomeproud.co.nz, thehomeproud.co.nz, thehomeproud.co.nz, or email Jessica and Kaye at or email Jessica and Kaye at or email and at or email and at info@thehomeproud.co.nz. info@thehomeproud.co.nz.
HELP INCREASE INDIGENOUS VEGETATION ACROSS SELWYN
Applications invited Applications invited Applications invited Applications invited.. Would you like to help to restore indigenous biodiversity on your property creating another Greendot on the CanterburyPlains?
Have you been thinking about how to help our natural environment but not sure wheretostart?
Te Ara Kākāriki - Greenway Canterbury can help. The organisation is accepting applications right now from landowners and community groupstoplantin2026.
You may also qualify for a small financial grant to subsidise the cost of plants and plant guards, up to a maximum of $1,500. Successful applicants will each receive a customised restoration plan written by one of Te Ara Kākāriki’s expert ecologists, including analysis of the site, a plant list and planting plan. Te Ara Kākāriki also arranges groups of volunteers to help you plant
(Spring2026).
Te Ara Kākāriki Greenway Canterbury Trust is an incorporated charitable trust whose mission is to plant a ‘greenway’ – a corridor of native biodiversity Greendots that link the mountains to the sea through Selwyn – between the Waimakiriri and Rakaia rivers, linking Kākāpōtahi the Canterbury Foothills to Te Waihora Lake Ellesmere and Te Pātaka o Rākaihautū Banks Peninsula.
So far over 56 hectares have
been planted with over 259,000 plants with 323,800 volunteer hours. The organisation works with landowners and community groups to create greendots on publicandprivateland.
One of the key drivers for Te Ara Kākāriki is to increase the less than 1% of indigenous vegetation remaining on the CanterburyPlains.
To find out more and to To find out
SYNLAIT GETS ON TRACK LITERALLY
There will be around 900 fewer truck movements from Synlait’s Dunsandel facility each year as the company further embraces rail over road.
Synlait signed a new agreement in December that changes the way it delivers dairyproducts.
Instead of being trucked to Lyttelton for shipping to Asian markets, additional products
will now travel by train. The Synlait factoryhasarailsiding, especiallyforthispurpose. his step forward benefits both parties, the wider community and the environment by taking approximately 900 additional truck movements o the road everyyear.
Synlait’s Head of Supply Chain Tania Byrnes says this step forwardhadmultiplebenefits.
environment by taking around 900 moretruckmovementsper year o what is already a very busy part of State Highway One,”saysTania.
The change streamlines the logisticsfor Synlait'scustomers and will reduce the time it takes to get the product to market.
The first container was loaded and left Synlait just a week after the latest agreement was signed.
“It’s a more e cient way of moving product and is a win for the community and
By upping their use of their rail siding, Synlait will take 900 truck movements off the road each year. Photo: A container being loaded at Synlait factory, ready to head to Lyttleton.
SELWYN RIVER
The 2021 Canterbury floods showed the need to improve flood management around the Waikirikiri/SelwynRiver.
EnvironmentCanterbury(ECAN) wants you to help to shape future plans and priorities for thisarea.
Flood protection work is usually funded from rates paid by River Rating Districts (RRD). There are six RRDs in the Selwyn District, but they only cover a small part of the area thatneedsriverwork.
Through ECAN’s Long-Term Plan (LTP) consultation, the community supported a targeted rate to prioritise work across the Waikirikiri/Selwyn River and its tributaries (particularly the Hororata, Waianiwaniwa and Hawkins Rivers).
This rate will be used to provide dedicated support and increased flood and river resilience work across the wholeSelwynDistrict.
A total of $200,000 will be collected for Selwyn District flood and river resilience work in 2024/25 (Year 1 of the LTP), increasing to $400,000 by 2026/27.
The money collected from this targeted rate will be used to fund initial work in this area, including:
• clearing out channels and flow paths
• weed control
• planting activities
• investigation and development of a work programme for the next three years.
RESILIENCE
ECAN has developed a work plan for 2024-25 based on the local community’s feedback through the LTP consultation and discussions at catchment meetings. They want to plan ahead, and your ongoing input iscrucial.
ECANwantstohearabout:
• What’s happening in the Waikirikiri/Selwyn River and tributaries including Hororata, Hawkins, and Waianiwaniwa Rivers, or common breakout
paths such as the Irwell River?
• Any changes or issues you've noticed (flooding, restricted flows, gravel buildup, weeds, willow congestion, erosion).
• Any sites of significance to the local community that might be a ected by works in the river (especially community planting sites).
To share your feedback, visit To share your feedback, visit share your feedback, visit share your feedback, visit www.ecan.govt.nz and www.ecan.govt.nz and and and search search search search ‘ ‘‘ ‘Selwyn District River Selwyn District River Selwyn District River Selwyn District River Resilience Work Work’. ’. ’.
BOWLS DARFIELD TAKES FIRST PLACE
The Malvern Women's Pennants is an exciting event that brings together players from five local clubs: Oxford, Coalgate, Darfield, Kirwee, and West Melton. Each team is made up of five ladies, with two players competing in pairs andthreeintriples.
This annual competition was played over three days this season, and this year’s winners were Bowls Darfield, who took
home first place, followed by Oxford in second place, and Kirwee2teaminthirdplace. A unique rule of this competition allows a male player to participate, but only if a full team of women is unavailable. In such cases, a male can step in as the lead in the triples team. This year, the competition featured two male players, adding an interesting twisttotheevent.
Design – Installation – Servicing
Toro Irrigation Systems
Lawns - Gardens
Lifestyle Blocks - K-Line Irrigation
Sports Grounds - Horticulture
Trenching
Free Quotes
Freeman Irrigation Ltd
Phil & Kristie Hudson
Free Phone: 0800 22 33 92
Website: www.freemanirrigation.co.nz
Email: info@freemanirrigation.co.nz
Bowls Darfield winning team: From left, Claire Stevenson, Lorraine Rowe, Bronwyn Hamilton, Jude Will, and Bill Posthumus, standing in for Freda Posthumus (pictured right). Due to workload and injury, two reserves played on the final day - Freda and Liz Hamilton.
DARFIELD GUN CLUB REPORT
By Bevan Brown. Bevan Brown.
A dull and grey day but a light NE wind for the group of 29 shooters to contest the Double Rise andthe Deauville Doubles on February 2. Again, a mainly lesser start with few possibles buttobeexpectedreally.
The Double Rise was led by the A grade with Mike Havill and Tony Stuart shooting o , with both on 27/30. Gerald Lemon (22/30), shooting o his mobility scooter, won the B grade by one shot while Kevin Smith won the C grade with a scoreof22.
The Deauvilles with drawn pairings was once again hotly contested with 18 or 19/20 a popular score. However, in the last set of pairings, Aaron Cli ord and Tony Stuart combined well to score a possible 20 to win the event. Well, shot!
Shooter Draw, unfortunately dropping target four o 20 metres. As usual, many thanks to those workingtokeepthingsrunning to schedule and those who helped with clean-up and afternoontea. Results Results Results Results Round 2 Round 2 –– Double Rise Double Rise Double Rise Double Rise Trophies
A Grade: Grade: 1stMikeHavill27/30,2nd TonyStuart273rdBrodie Mangels26
B Grade: B Grade: 1st GeraldLemon22,2nd MarcelVanLeeuwen21,3rd RupertWright21
C Grade: C Grade: 1stKevinSmith22,2ndDave Keenan20,3rdLeeMcVinnie 20
Round 3 Round 3 Round 3 Round 3 –– Deauville Doubles Deauville Doubles Deauville Deauville (drawnpairs)
Winners:AaronCli ord/Tony Stuart20/20
Nextshoot:Sunday,March2at 1pm.Allwelcome.
To finish the shooting, Dave Scobie tried to win the Lucky
MALVERN RIFLE CLUB NEWS
By Mark Alexander. By Mark Alexander.
Januaryisa busymonth for full -bore target shooters with the NRANZ Nationals held from January 10 -18 at the Trentham rifle range in Wellington.
The 2024 Nationals were very successfulfor theMalvern Rifle Club, but the Club wasn't able to repeat those results in
2025.
The conditions were more challenging for the 2025 Nationals with more southerly winds blowing down the range with sudden changes in directionandstrength.
Club members were part of the South Island Target Rifle Team that won the North vs South TR Teams Match. The Malvern
Rifle Club TR Team won the Belt Series Long Range Teams championship and the Belt Series Club Teams championship.
Malvern was third NZ Coached Champion Club TR Teams match with Andre Du Toit coached by Richard Rowlands, the highest individual scorer. Malvern was second in the Coached Club Combined TR & F-ClassTeamsmatch.
Andre Du Toit was a finalist in the Ballinger Belt series and Charlie Ledbrook a finalist in theFTRClassicseries.
February sees members returning to compete in regional and club championships.
Visitors are always welcome to therange,hearingprotectionis required, eye protection is recommended.
Winners Aaron Clifford and Tony Stuart Deauville Doubles 2025.
2025 COAST TO COAST
...continuedfromfrontpage. ...continuedfromfrontpage. Withtheall-importantapproval fromwifeDee -hisnumberone supporter (given the sheer time commitment required for training), he entered the ballot and was lucky enough to secureaspot.
Race day turned out to be a true game of two halves—the first going exactly to plan, the second becoming more about survival than speed. Despite the struggle, Ben pushed through, determined to reach thefinishline.
The Longest Daycertainlylived up toitsname, not just for Ben, butforhissupportcrew,family, and friends, who stuck with him through every gruelling stage. By the time they finally made it home well after midnight, there was no doubt— the challenge had been just as tough as expected, but absolutelyworthit.
Simon Earl Battles Through Earl Battles Through to Claim Second Place in Veteran Category
Competing in the 2 Day event as an individual in this year’s Kathmandu Coast to Coast, Simon Earl put in a gutsy performance to finish in 14 hours, 42 minutes, and 10 seconds—earning himself an impressive 2nd place out of 52 in the Veteran (40-49) category. He also ranked 32nd out of 224 male competitors and 38th overall from a
fieldof317.
Simon had a strong start, with a fast 2.2km run and a solid bike leg in a large bunch. The Goat Pass mountain run was going well until the first river crossing, where the icy water triggered hamstring cramps. Despite this, he managed to push through, completing the leg in 4 hours, 17 minutes and finishing Day 1 first in his category—a surprise even to himself.
Day2beganwithasteadybike leg, but the low river levels made for a punishing kayak stage, sapping his energy. Two unplanned swims at Esk Bend and Salmon Rapid had him doubting his podium chances. However, digging deep on the final 70km bike leg, Simon found his rhythm and powered to the finish line, securing 2nd placeinhisagegroup.
Absolutely stoked with the result, Simon credited his coach, Dougal Allan, for his guidance and support and wouldlike tothankhissupport crewforalltheirhelp.
Tim Wright Secures Top 10 Tim Wright Secures Top 10 Wright Secures 10 Wright Secures 10 Finish in Coast to Coast in Coast Coast
Tim Wright took on the 2 Day
Individual Male Open category at this year’s Kathmandu Coast to Coast, securing a credible 8th place in his category and animpressive18thoverall. With the event taking place right in his backyard, Tim saw
it as the perfect opportunity to challenge himself. Having competed in a team event nearly 20 years ago, he decided to go solo this year, drawing on his years of summerrunningandkayaking.
The toughest part of the race was the gruelling 33km run over Goat Pass, but Tim made up valuable time in the kayak leg, climbing up the rankings withastrongpaddle.
He extends a huge thank you to his support crew and family for their encouragement throughout the race—a key factorinhelpinghim gettothe finishline.
Darfield High School Boys
Take on Coast to Coast Take on Coast to Coast on Coast Coast on Coast Coast
The Darfield High School Boys Team put in a strong effort in the 2 Day, 3 Person School category at this year’s KathmanduCoasttoCoast.
The team—Andrew Maultsaid (bike), Kyan Vercoe (run), and Jack Molloy (kayak)— strategized to ensure a fast start, with a quick sprint off the beach setting the pace for Andrew on the bike and Kyan onthemountainrun.
Jack tackled the kayak leg on Saturday, navigating a tough paddle on the low Waimakariri River. Despite the challenge, the team pushed through and came together at New Brighton to cross the finish line as a unit—a fitting end to an epic race. Their final time was 14 hours, 51 minutes and 32seconds.
Simon Earl, with some of his support crew, son Ryan and wife Kate
LOCALS IN 2025 KATHMANDU COAST TO COAST
...continuedfrompage11. ...continuedfrompage11.
Vargo and Gallant Claim Victory in Mixed Tandem Category
Kirwee’s Jake Vargo and teammate Natalie Gallant put in an outstanding performance at the Kathmandu Coast to Coast, taking 1st place in the 2 Day Mixed Tandem category with a time of 14 hours, 48 minutes, and56 seconds. Their strong effort also saw them finish 3rd overall in the 2 Day tandemdivision.
Competing in the tandem category meant the duo had to complete the entire course together, staying within 50 metres of each other at all times. They tackled the course with a double kayak on the Waimakariri River and rode single road bikes for the cyclinglegs.
Their teamworkandendurance paid off, securing them the top spot in their category and a podiumfinishoverall.
Triple Threat Takes on Coast Triple on to Coast to
For Paige Hunter, the 2025 Kathmandu Coast to Coast was an unforgettable experience—a true emotional roller coaster from start to finish. Competing in the 2 Day, 3 Person Mixed Family category as Team Triple Threat, she tackled the challenge alongside her mum, Kathryn Hunter, and teammate CaseyTaylor.
The race had its highs and lows—quite literally. Paige’s first rapid ended in a crash against a rock (and a few
tears), but after regaining composure, she smiledher way down the rest of the river, soakingintheexperience.
Backing them every step of the way was an incredible support crew—Kim Taylor, Luke Daly, AmyPoynter,andPaige’sdad— who endured early mornings and fast-paced transitions to help get the team across the finish line. Add to that the roaring encouragement from the riverbanks, and it was an experiencePaigewon’tforget.
With Coast to Coast 2025 officially ticked off, she’s alreadysethersightson2026!
brother Jarrod Dalton to compete in the2 Day, 3 Person Family event at this year’s Kathmandu Coast to Coast. With an incredible atmosphere from registration to the finish line, the trio embraced the challenge of racing from West toEast, makingthe most ofthe stunning landscapes right in theirownbackyard.
together a team. Dan was quickly on board for the run, and when Tim was asked a few questions about the event, he suddenly found himself signed upforthebikeleg.
There was just one problem— Leon had never been in a kayak. He needed a Grade 2 certificate, which led to four intensedaysoflearning.
It didn’t take long for him to realize kayaking was far tougher than expected, but with training and determination,hegotthere.
Fast forward a year, and the trio successfully conquered the course, pushing themselves to the limit. They extend a huge thanks to their support crew— Wes Butler, Earl Worsfold, and Chloe Neil—as well as partners, Megan and Grace, for their support throughout the journey.
As for Tim? He says he’d do it allagain inaheartbeat! There were many other locals that also competedcongratulations to them all for givingthisiconiceventago!
Family Team TBC Conquers
Family Team TBC Conquers Family Team TBC Conquers Family Team TBC Conquers Coast to Coast Coast
The Kathmandu Coast to Coast was a true family affair for Team TBC this year. Bridget Bell of Kirwee teamed up with her brother-in-law Chris Thwaites (kayak) and nephew Toby Thwaites (run) from Hororata to take on the challenging multisport event in the 2 Day, 3 Person Family team event. Supporting them along the way were Jane Thwaites (Bridget’s sister, Chris’s wife, and Toby’s mother) and Toby’s friend Kase.
The team was thrilled with their performance, achieving their main goals of enjoying the experience and making it to the finish line. They completed the race in an impressive 14 hours, 59 minutes,and5seconds.
Team Takes on Coast to Team Takes on Coast to Team on Coast to Team on Coast to Coast CoastCoast Coast
Michelle Owers (from Rolleston, ex-Kirwee) teamed upwithherhusbandJamesand
After ticking off the mountain run sololast year, Michelle was excited to return as part of a team, sharing the experience with family. Everything went smoothly—no injuries, no major issues—until the final 20km, when James found himself riding to the finish line on a flat tire. Determined not to let it slow them down, he poweredthroughtogetthe job done.
A huge shoutout goes to their support crew, Maree and Terry Dalton, (Mum and Dad), who are still based in Kirwee. With 4am wake-up calls and the challenge of navigating the event’slogistics, their help was invaluable in getting the team wheretheyneededtobe.
Team Team Team ‘ ‘‘ ‘Looking Forward to a Looking Forward to a Beer BeerBeer Beer’ ’’ ’ Conquers Coast to Conquers Coast to Conquers Coast to Conquers Coast to Coast Coast –– And Earns That And Earns That That That Drink! Drink! Drink! Drink!
Tim McNae (bike), Dan Roughan (run), and Leon Rietveld (kayak) teamed up for this year’s Kathmandu Coast to Coast, competing in the 2 Day, 3 Person Men’s Veteran category and finished in 16 hours, 18 minutes, and 43 seconds.
Leon’s journey to the start line began last year when he was watching kayakers finish at the Gorge Bridge. Inspired by the atmosphere, he decided to put
www.sporty.co.nz/darfieldnetball
Natalie Gallant and Jake Vargo from Kirwee finish off on the podium.
Paige Hunter finished the kayak leg smiling.
Team ‘Looking Forward to a Beer’; Tim McNae, Leon Rietveld and Dan Roughan, enjoyed that beer at the end.
13Feb10am CraftandCuppa
DarfBaptistChurch 13Feb SummerNetballCommences DarfieldNetballCourts
14Feb Valentine’sDay
14Feb5:30pm DarfieldBowls5WeekCompStarts DarfieldBowlingClub 14Feb SheffieldMemorialPoolSubmissionsClose
15Feb9am AntiquesandCollectablesMarket TerraceStn,Hororata 15Feb4pm 2025NutPointArtAwards NutPointCentre 16Feb1pm Drop-InAreaPlanSession-SkateJam DarfieldSkatePark
HORORATA GOLF HORORATA
17Feb 1pm MalvernNews-EditorialDeadline-news@malvernnews.co.nz
17Feb7pm DHSRuralCollegeNightClassesStart DHS
17Feb JaniceCollierMemorialFundApplicationsClose 18Feb 10am MalvernNews-AdvertisingDeadline-info@malvernnews.co.nz
19Feb11:30-12:30WeeklyJusticeofthePeaceService DarfieldLibrary
21Feb SelwynBusinessSurveyClosed
22Feb3pm MusicinthePark DarfieldReserve
24Feb7pm KirweeCommunityAssnQuizNight ThirstyAcres
2Mar 8:30am WingsandWheels KimberleyRd,Darfield 22Mar MalvernA&PShow SheffieldDomain
25-26Mar SouthIslandAgriculturalFieldDays Kirwee
29Mar OxfordA&PShow Oxford
ACCOUNTANTS
ARE AREARE 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.
CONTACT CONTACT the team at Malvern News for all your business card requirements. Phone 03 3187450 or email info@malvernnews.co.nz
CHIMNEY CLEANING
CARRS CARRS CARRS CARRS Chimney Cleaning. Servicing the Selwyn district. $80 per chimney. Please ph Rodney on 03 324 2999 and leaveamessage.
CHIM CHIMCHIM 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 bird netting. Please phone us on021939113.
Malvern Anglican Parish
SUN 16 FEB 9:30am Trinity Church, Darfield & 5pm St Ambrose, Sheffield malvernparish.wixsite.com/ malvern-parish
I AM I AM I AM looking for home cleaning work in Darfield Only.Call0272960446.
Weddings Weddings • Namings Namings Namings Namings Renewal of Vows Renewal of Funerals Funerals Funerals Funerals
Interments Interments Interments Interments
JENNI GIBSON
Ph: 03 324 8332
M: 021 723 089
OXFORD
BOARDING BOARDING BOARDING BOARDING KENNELS KENNELS
312 Kiri Kiri Rd, Oxford Phone Jude & Bevan Blackmore 03 312 3355 027 288 8724
OPEN 7 DAYS
LEASE LEASELEASE LEASE land wanted. Selwyn area suitable for cattle grazing. All sizes consider. PhoneReg0275670720. LEASE LAND WANTED
RENT COTTAGE COTTAGE COTTAGE COTTAGE to rent. Small 3bdrm farm cottage. Garage and shed available. Log burner and large veggie garden. $275 per week. Dunsandel. PhoneOllie0273837396.
FOR SALE
RAMBO, RAMBO, the Ram, needs a new post code. Very efficient and easy to work with. Please phone0211498108.
www.newzealandcelebrant.nz
CONFIDENTIAL CONFIDENTIAL CONFIDENTIAL CONFIDENTIAL, professional counselling/therapy. Offering valuable support as you navigate life's challenges. Free introductory 1/2hr consultation. Lisa Mills 0278140785. COUNSELLING
LIFESTYLE LIFESTYLE LIFESTYLE, farm tracks, yards and dairy lanes our speciality. Screened rottenrock, it’s local and lasts better. Phone Springfield Quarryon3184132.
SUNDAY 16 FEB 2025
At 10:30am
Steve & Patience Pona Ph: 022 642 5805 17 North Terrace, Darfield
Monday-Saturday 9am-11am & 4:30pm-6:30pm Sun day 3pm - 6:30pm Inspection welcome
ARE ARE ARE youinneedofa refinance, first home loan,buying a new home, investment property or a property development? I deal with all the lenders, and I can get you thebest deal to suit you. I have 30+ years of lending experience, and I am local. I can come to you. Alan Lover Loan Market 027 2516644. I bring the banks toyou.
UDI UDI UDI UDI Painting & Decorating. For all painting & decorating services! Fully qualified. Interior & exterior painting & plastering. Wallpapering & roof painting. Quality Services. Free quotes. Please Ph.UdiAale0210742075.
Malvern Lions have PEA STRAW AVAILABLE
$7 per small bale, delivered. Medium squares pea straw also available! Phone now for delivery.
• Hugh Wright Sheffield - 021 565 550
• Les Clement Darfield - 027 318 1165
• Andrew Brooker Kirwee - 027 432 6176
• Stu Lill
Kirwee - 021 147 3173
• Anthony Dalzell Coalgate - 027 240 6501
garden maintenance in Darfield area. Domestic hedge trimming, pruning, edging, lawns and water blasting. Please phone Kane 0274676613.
of varieties. Call and see if we have what you need. PhoneAnnie0273702067.
owned and operated since 2008. Call Brian Walker for your
ROOM TO RENT
SINGLE SINGLE lockable rooms in Darfield Hostel. Internet, Sky TV. $190pw. Please phone 0274791431.
CARPET CARPET
FIREWOOD & COAL
ROOF MAINTENANCE
ROOF & house maintenance. All aspects covered including spouting, mortar, tiles, reroofing, roof painting, moss, mould & silicone sealing. General repairs. Ph 03 347 6702or0210302835.
Amalgamated Scrap Ltd. Buying cars & farm machinery. Specialising in farm clean-ups. Best prices Rod McQuoid - buyer. Please phoneeither0276950480or alternatively0800030712.
EXPERIENCED EXPERIENCED EXPERIENCED stockman looking for work. Tractor driving experience. GST registered. Pleasephone0225747805.
SELWYN SELWYN SELWYN Shuttles provide safe and reliable transport for young and old, near and far. Call or txt Brad 021 776 968.
TOOLSTOOLS TOOLS wanted - mechanics, engineering, wood working etc. Garage, shed, barn clearances, deceased estates etc. Please phone Rob on 033425885.
DEAD DEADDEAD DEAD cars - we buy dead cars, end of life cars, scrap cars, old farm vehicles. Cash paid. Pleasephone0274848121
Friday 14th February 2025
• Septic Tank Cleaning
• Jetting Unit for Blocked Drains
• Camera Investigations
WINDOW TINTING
TINT TINTTINT TINT--A AA A--WINDOW WINDOW 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
TRADES
KITCHENS - new or renovate existing with new doors and bench tops, wardrobes, laundries, vanities made to size. Built-in bookcases and wallunits,melamineortimber desks, buffets, tables or any furniture. Great prices and advice. Please phone Lex 0274393926or3490150.
Darfield based with over 43 years of local knowledge and experience
we’ll be there when you need us. guaranteed. on time guaranteed or your first hour is free! conditions apply. david wilkinson registered electrician
I come from a large family, five sisters and three brothers. My sisters and I were looking through the family photo album one day. Picture after picture, we were all dressed in matching clothes. I asked my mother why she dressed us all alike, right down to the baby.
She explained, "When we had just four children, I dressed you alike so we wouldn't lose any of you. Then," she added, looking at the pictures in the album, "When the other four came along, I started dressing you alike so we won't pick up any that don't belong to us."