Being a caddy is not straightforward. You need to have a good knowledge of the game, know how to read the wind and greens as well as have a good relationship with theplayer.
After caddyingin his first major tournament, the New Zealand Open Pro-Am Championship at the Millbrook Resort earlier this year, Whitecli s golfer Alan Lover better understands the pressures involved for the golferandhisroleasacaddy.
“As the NZ Open is a Pro-Am format, I caddied for an amateur from the Kaiapoi Golf Club on a 10 handicap,” says Alan. “We had two practice rounds and then played Thursday and Friday, but, unfortunately,wedidn’tqualify to play the weekend being welldowntheleaderboard.”
He says his player was very nervous, even in the practice rounds. “I tried to talk him through every shot, helping
with club selection, advising what line to hit the ball and readingputtsonthegreen.”
However, playing the first tee shot in front of other players, crowds and TV cameras was daunting. “Everyone is there to see where you will hit your shot.”
To help put his player at ease, they would turn up an hour before tee o , go to the range and hit a bucket of balls, then to the practice green where Alan would work on putts with his player, and generally get him in the right head space to hitthefirstteeshot.
Alan has played golf for many years and says his experience in playing at a good level has given him exactly what he needstobeagoodcaddy.
“I think I can add a lot to a player in a big tournament like the NZ Open, keeping the player’s head clear so they can play the best they can play,” says Alan. He has played golf
for over 40 years and is a member at the Hororata Golf Club.
The biggest challenge is when the player doesn’t listen to what he has to say, and things don’t go right, however that’s where he feels he has so much to o er with advice on club selection, wind direction, and helping to read the greens to help the player to sink more putts.
With this year’s NZ Open being Alan’s first major tournament
as a caddy under his belt, he is now looking forward to next year'stournament.
“I’ve had this experience, so hopefully next year I will get a professionaltocaddyfor.”
When Alan isn’t caddying or playinggolf he is busy working as the local mortgage advisor for Loan Market, helping those that are in need of refinance, first home loan, buying a new home, investment property or a property development. He bringsthebankstoyou.
Alan Lover’s first time caddying at the New Zealand Open Pro-Am Championship has given him a taste of the expertise required at championship level and is keen to take part in next year’s tournament.
Local Boy Running for His Neighbour Page 2
Malvern Anzac Run Pages 8 & 9
Malvern Collie Club Annual Dog Trials Page 11
Hours 7:30am - 5pm
• Educare Ph 318 7943
• 3 Year Ph 318 7948
• 4 Year Ph 318 8843
HELPING WOMEN IN TONGA
A 10-day holiday in the Kingdom of Tonga was a golden opportunity for Carol Gurney and her wife, Olive Webb, to help Tongan women inneed.
Carol, who runs the secondhand clothing shop, Carol’s Closet, in Hororata, took with her a selection of used bras and donated them to the Women and Children Crisis Centre(WCCC).
She says the Centre was thrilledtohavethebras.“Ialso didn’t realise there was such a need for women’s and children’sclothing.”
Carol occasionally donates surplus clothing to Christchurch Women’s Refuge but is now also planning on helpingwomeninTonga.
Before she left for Tonga, Carol got in touch with her friend, Jeremy, from New Zealand
Police, to find out if there was aneedforwomen’sclothing. Jeremy followed up her request with a call to Steve Powell from the Australian Federal Police; Steve is the advisor for Families Free of Violence and was appreciative of any help and assistance that could come from Carol and Olive’s donations.
Steve set up a date and time for Carol and Olive to meet with the WCCC’s director, Cathy Hopson, and a WCCC counsellor.
The meeting went ahead on Thursday, April 3 at 10.30am.
The donation of women’s clothing items was much appreciated and after the introductions and a presentation of the items, both parties were keen to keep in contact and work on ways that further donations could be
made and clothing sent over to theCentrefromCarol’sCloset.
Jeremy says, “This was a great cooperative engagement from both NZP (New Zealand Police) and AFP (Australian Federal Police) to help vulnerable Tongans, particularly women and children at a time of crisis.”
Carol, with the support of her shop volunteers, is keen to accept and collect any donations of bras in good, clean used or new condition to send to the Women’s Centre in Tonga. Donations can be dropped into Carol’s Closet on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday between 11am and 2pm or they can be dropped into the red drop-off bin outside the shop at any time of theday.
RUNNING FOR HIS NEIGHBOUR
On April 5, Darfield local, 11year-old Flynn Carey, began a 21-day challenge to run 100km. His aim, to raise money for his young neighbour, ColeTudehope.
Five-year-old Cole has a very rare genetic disorder called Witteveen-Kolk syndrome. Cole is the only person in New Zealand with this syndrome and there are only 50-60 known cases worldwide of WITKOS. The journey Cole has been on so far in his short life has not been an easy one. He has been tube fedsince he was three days old, has very low muscle tone (hypotonia), is non -verbal and has struggled with respiratory issues, to name just some of the things he has had to navigate. Although he is slowly getting stronger, he still
hasmanyongoingneeds.
Flynn wants to raise as much money as he can for Cole so that he can access everything he needs to become more independent and live his life the best he can. Funds raised will also contribute to a three-week intense specialist physiotherapy programme, which is only available in Australia.
Flynn is roughly half way throughhis100kmchallenge.
He has a Givealittle page He has a Givealittle page He has Givealittle He has Givealittle for donations at: givealittle.co.nz/cause/ givealittle.co.nz/cause/ running running running--to toto to--raise raiseraise raise--money money money money--for forfor for-resources resources resources--that thatthat that--will will will will and is tracking his runs and is tracking his runs updates on a Facebook page updates on a Facebook page on Facebook page on Facebook page facebook.com/ facebook.com/ running.for.cole.2025.
For Carol Gurney and Olive Webb, meeting members of the Women and Children Crisis Centre (WCCC) was a highlight of their recent holiday in Tonga
Pictured from left: Jeremy (NZ Police) and Cathy Hopson, WCCC Director, WCCC Counsellor, Carol Gurney, Olive Webb, WCCC Manager and Steve Powell (Australian Police).
Flynn Carey is running to help has funds for Cole Tudehope.
DEDICATED VIOLINIST
Staff at the Malvern School of Music (MSM) were excited to learn that one of their past pupils has been accepted into the NZSO National Youth OrchestraasaViolinIIPlayer.
MSM tutor Pauline Sewell says Earl Boado was a pupil of Malvern School of Music from the age of 11 to 15 until he left for Hamilton four years ago.
“Earl, at 11, was the first pupil who asked me what concerts I was going to and was I going to the Yo-Yo Ma (International Cellist)concert.Fromthenon,I had a partner for every concert in Christchurch,” says Pauline. “When he decided to go mountain biking at Craigieburn the day before sitting Grade 5, it was a stressful time for me as a teacher and I was relieved when he returned in one piece.”
As a dedicated violinist, Pauline believes Earl has the personality to go far with his playing and teaching. “He is in demand for solo performances
and accompanying groups in theNorthIsland.”
Early July, Earl will attend a week-long course organised by NZSO National Youth Orchestra in Wellington. He says he has also recently performed as a guest soloist and chamber musician in concerts held in Auckland and Tauranga for fundraisers and special gigs throughout late 2024-early2025.
“As well as this, I have been involved in volunteering and teacher-training mentorship programmes with Sistema Whangarei and Kaitaia College, assisting in their weekly school orchestra practices, arranging scores and occasionally coaching students for their NCEA performances,” saysEarl.
Recently he performed with the Wellington Chapel Band and Singers on April 13 and will accompany the Bay of Island Singers (Kerikeri) for theirconcertonMay25.
Earl’s busy life as a musician
can be attributed back to his early days in Darfield and perhaps his time spent attending concerts with his tutor,Pauline.
“Making it into the NZSO NationalYouth Orchestrais the ultimate for a young orchestral player. You need to be under 25 andhe is19 years old,” says Pauline. “At Malvern School of Music we are very proud of him”.
JACKIE GOES PRIMA DIVA
Coming to Darfield on Saturday, May 10 at 7.30pm at Darfield High School Hall is Jackie Clarke’s latest national Arts on Tour NZ production, JackieGoesPrimaDiva.
Melissa Jebson, MCAC Performing Arts Committee Chairperson, says come along dressed up as a diva for a fantastic night of entertainment with prizes for theBestDressed.
Homegrown chanteuse Jackie Clarke turns her powerhouse vocals, wicked humour and maverick entertainment style to the songs of the 20th and 21st Centuries most legendary divas.
Ms Clarke pays homage to Judy Garland, Shirley Bassey, Nina Simone, Peggy Lee, Streisand and more! From Alison Durbin to Dolly Parton, from Kate Bush to Gaga, Jackie lets her diva flag fly, while playfully engaging the audience with hertrademarkwittypanache.
Accompanied by the splendid
Karl Benton on piano, expect iconic songs performed with tender soul and gleeful virtuosity.
In 2018, Jackie was awarded an MNZM for services to entertainment and in 2024 the Variety Artists lifetime achievement award, The Benny. She has enjoyed 40 years in theatre, (Mamma Mia, Shirley Valentine), music (When The Cat’s Been Spayed,
The Lady Killers) and TV (NZ Idol,TheSemisis).
Don’t miss this rollicking show of bravura song styling, dazzling frockage, pindrop moments and plenty of laughs from a NZ dairy-fed diva with her feet on the ground and her head in the stars.
Seeadvertisementforbooking details.
Venue: Darfield High School Hall
Date: Saturday 10th May at 7.30pm
Tickets: $30
Book: https://trybooking.com/nz/vtw
Dress up as a Diva and join us for a fantastic night of entertainment. Prizes for Best Dressed.
Jackie Clarke,
Ex-pupil of Malvern School of Music Earl Boado has been accepted into NZSO National Youth Orchestra as a Violin II Player.
EASTER, A CELEBRATION OF LIFE
By Beth Sharpe By Beth Sharpe By Beth By Beth- Darfield Baptist Church. Darfield Baptist Church. Darfield
Church. Darfield Church.
One of my favourite things about the change of season is enjoying the glorious sunrises. WhenIgetup,outsideis intotaldarkness. Iam distractedbyfamily needs for afewminutes, andwhen Iturn back tothe sky, it is filledwith colouredlight. The light refracts through the clouds,illuminatingtheskyinbrilliant shadesofpeach,orange,andbloodred.
This is an image of Easter. On Friday, Jesus, the promised rescuer, was put to death. His followersfelthopeless.Lifewasinky darkdespair.
A TIME OF NURTURE AND RENEWAL
By Lyn Sopoaga By Lyn- Malvern Co Malvern Co Co--operating Parish. operating operating
During this poignant time of Easter, we remember and continuetoholdinprayerthoseforwhomthiswillbetheir firstEasterwithouttheirmuchlovedone.
The Malvern Ministers Association warmly invite you to gather at St Joseph’s in Darfield at 8am to journey through Darfield to Trinity Church carrying the Cross. A service will follow.
Then early on Sunday morning, when the first light was turning the black to dawn, some of Jesus's close female friends hurried to the burial tomb. Their job, a sad one, was to place fragrant spices and oils on His body, so that others could visit their precious teacher and mourntheirloss.
But justas streaks of redandpink filledthe sky, the womenmade a discovery. The tomb was empty.Jesushadbeentransformedfromdeathtolife.
Come celebrate this glorious moment with us, we will start Easter Sunday with an 8am service at the Glenroy Crosses. This is a family-friendly outdoor event, so dress warmly and comealong.HotcrossbunswillbeprovidedafterwardsintheGlenroyCommunityHall. (Glenroy Crosses are located between GlentunnelandGlenroyonSH77.)
Easter is such a significant time in the life of the Church and in our individual lives. Rolling out the Easter story to 200 children has been such a learning journey for our children.
We also have a special Easter service at 10:30am at Darfield Baptist Church. We would love to share these celebrations withyou.
THE POPPY AND THE CROSS
By (Fr) Brian Fennessy, Parish Priest By (Fr)
Having these joyous encounters with the children, highlights their growing faith in Peace, Love, Joy andHope in the world today. The outstretched arms of Jesus as he hung on the Cross speaks of an action which gathers us to himself through His sacrificial love. How about decorating your letter-box at Easter with flowers to proclaim the EastermessageonEasterSunday?
My prayer for you, is thatthis 2025 Easter willbe a time of nurture and renewal for YOU, a time to be re-energised in yourFaithJourney.Christisrisen–Heisrisenindeed! GodBless,muchLove GodBless,muchLove AuntyLyn. AuntyLyn.
‘Our Lady of the Plains Catholic Parish Our Lady of the Plains Catholic Parish Our Lady of Plains Catholic Parish’, ’, ’, ’, Selwyn. Within the Selwyn District there are several War Memorials: these include Darfield, Leeston and Lincoln. These memorials signify the contribution of local communities during times of war. The erection of War Memorials, during the early 1920s, was a way for communities to remembertheirlovedones whodid notreturnhomefromWorldWordI.
When there was little possibility for families to visit graves, the War Memorials became a personalandmeaningfulfocusforfamiliesandcommunities.
The Memorials became a reminder of service from families and from the District. They also became a focal point to commemorate New Zealand’s wartime e ort and to assist with the educationoffuturegenerations.
As family members placed floral tributes and poppies on the War Memorials, families were able topublicly express their grief andtheir solidarity; andrea rm thattheir lovedones had notdiedinvain.
THE GIFT OF LIFE
By Rev. Alexa Evenden By Rev. –– Malvern Anglican Parish. Malvern Anglican Parish.
Since the Second World War, we’ve had soldiers killed in Korea, Malaysia, Vietnam, Timor LesteandAfghanistan.
For Christians, Easter is God’s pledge that we are his people, and that evil and death have been overcome. Anzac Day is New Zealand’s pledge to uphold national and international justiceanddefendhumanrights.
Anzac Day also reminds us that this responsibility demands a real cost, as it did for Jesus. Paradoxically, the Cross of Crucifixion has become a sign of love, service and life, and the poppyhasbecomeasignofremembrance.
Anzac Day also reminds us that the men and women who served, were wounded or maimed, ordiedinvariouswarsandpeacekeepingmissionsareremembered. Peaceistherewardforrespectinghumanrights,humandignity,andjustice.
Love of Christ, and the service of others, can be made concrete in various ways; Anzac Day is onesuchexpressionofthisservice.
The witness of love and service that we commemorate on Anzac Day is an expression of beinglikethe‘grainofwheatthatdies –inordertogivelife’. Easterisatimetocelebratehopeandlife.
I am so grateful for the amazing gift of life that Jesus gave me. I felt as a young child that there was ‘something more’ to this life. When I was 13 years old, I was able to understand more of Jesus and what that reality meant for me. I gladly gave Him my heart; Jesus became my Savior but a mere six months later after a family tragedy I turned mybackonhimanddecidedtotrustonlyme-notJesus. After many years of searching for ‘something’ to fill my heart and my restlessness, I came back to God and o ered Jesus a place in my heart once more. I discovered God had not moved or disappeared; I was the one who left. This Easter reminds me again of God’s amazing grace and love. He had a plan to allow His only son to die for us all so we can have the promise of an eternal life, an abundant life, a life that allows us to be the unique person God created us to be. I have never regretted this decision to turn back to Christ and live a life with Jesus, a life which is not exempt for the usual pain of living in this chaotic world. I thank Him for all He did that first Easter for me and for all those who know Him now and may want to know Him in the future.
Enjoy the Easter eggs, the long holiday weekend, the school holidays and maybe the chance to catch up with family and friends but also remember the love that God hasforyou.Jesusdiedsowemightlive. Christ has died! Christ has risen! Christ will come again! Alleluia!
LOCAL GOVERNMENT COMMISSION HAS FINAL SAY
Selwyn ratepayers are reeling after news that the Selwyn District Council’s (SDC) decision regarding the representation of Selwyn was overturned by the Local Government Commission (LGC) after an appeal was made by the Rolleston Residents’ Association.
After the Council listened to community feedback to retain the ward boundaries, Malvern Community Board (MCB)andtwo councillors for Malvern, the Commission’s decision to reduce that representation to one, move West Melton to Springs ward and include two at-large councillorswasunexpected.
Mayor Sam Broughton Mayor Sam Broughton Sam Broughton Sam Broughton says he was surprised that says was surprised that the Commission imposed the Commission imposed Commission Commission two councillors elected at elected large –– it was new to it new to Selwyn and was Selwyn and was was was discounted by the Council discounted by Council through the process through the process through through process.
While this new, unknown representation system could o er broader perspectives, it also raises questions about its alignment with communityfeedback.
“Having the Local Government Commission as an independent best practice decision maker is good, but more could be done,” says MayorBroughton.
“Any change is an opportunity for improvement, and I look forward to seeing how the new model works at theupcomingelection.”
He believes the changes for Malvernresidentsmeanmore voting options and influence over Council decisions, which therefore could enhance communityengagement. Similarly, West Melton residents gain more direct representation but will no longer pay a rate to support theMCB.
These shifts aim to balance e ective representation with the district's growth dynamics.
He says the Commission's determination brings more choice. “In Malvern, each
voter will influence four of 11ontheCouncilratherthan threeof11.Similarly,inWest Melton, each voter will influence six of 11 on the Council rather than the three of 11 with the current structure.”
While Councillor Lydia Gliddon appreciates the retention of the Malvern Community Board, she is concerned about the reduction to one councillor for Malvern, given the district’s diverse communities. She believes that collaboration between the MCB and the sole councillor will be crucial for e ectiverepresentation.
Lydia plans to stand for Lydia plans to stand for plans to plans to election again, however, election again, she says there will be she says there will be says there will be says there will be challenges for the sole challenges for the sole for for councillor, and a fair councillor, and a fair councillor, a fair councillor, a fair amount of juggling. of juggling.
“Some of the workload depends on how the next council is set up and how many internal and external portfolios you have – I currently have nine this triennium.”
She was disappointed for West Melton residents as the township was originally part of Selwyn Central (now Rolleston), then Malvern and nowSprings.
As a member of the Malvern CommunityBoard,CarlPayne says West Melton residents are unhappy with their move to the Springs ward and the lossofrepresentation.
He says he is very concerned about the LCG’s determination with the decision-making representation for Malvern and Ellesmere wards reduced by half in each case for both large rural communities.
“ ““
“West Melton has also lost West Melton has also lost West has also a major part of its a major part of its a major part its a major part its representation by losing representation by losing by losing by losing the Community Board Community Board Board”. ”. ”.
“Itisalsolikelythatthethree councillors in Springs will be voted in by the Lincoln and Prebbleton communities. The two at-large councillors are also likely to be voted in by the larger populated areas includingRolleston.”
He also questions the justification of the Rolleston Residents’ Association’s appeal, suggesting that its support should be verified through meeting minutes, given the Association’s potential representation of 32,000people.
John Verry, also a member of the MCB, believes that Selwyn’s rural heartland is beingsidelined.
He says the LGC’s determination to reduce Malvern’s representation and move West Melton is a blow to grassroots democracy.
“This is not just about numbers – it’s about ensuring rural voices are respected, heard, and properlyrepresented.”
He believes the decision He the decision disregards feedback from a disregards feedback from a consultation process and consultation process and consultation process and consultation process and rural community needs, rural community needs, favouring urban areas like favouring urban areas like favouring like favouring like Rolleston.
“The Rolleston Residents’ Association was within its rights to appeal, but their perspective – focused on rapid urban growth – is not representative of the wider Selwyn District. We don’t even know whether the appealtruly reflectedmost of their committee members or just a few vocal individuals. That there was only one appeal – one voice in the
wilderness – should have been a red flag. Yet the Commission appears to have leaned heavily on it, and the Council’s support, to reshape representation for all of Selwyn.”
Regarding the Malvern Community Board, John says the Board has been delivering real outcomes –advocating for the community.
“The Chair now has a voice at the Council table, and the Board has been working constructively to deliver better outcomes for those in Malvern.”
He urges rural residents to stand and vote at the next election to protect local democracy.
2025 Local Body 2025 Body Elections Elections Elections Elections
The next triennial The triennial local body elections local body elections local body local body will be held on held on Saturday 11 October 2025 Saturday October
Are you eligible to stand? Are eligible to
To be eligible to stand for election,acandidatemustbe:
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.
be considered for publica on without the
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. Jan Thomas - Editor
To the Editor: Re - Your Water Done Well Water Done
Oh, for the good old days when councillors and the County Chairman in this area were farmers and business owners with proven business acumen, common sense, and integrity.
Now we have a Mayor whose hard work and business experience I would question, and who seems to think that ratepayers’ pockets are bottomless pits of money to be tapped into at will.
However, congratulations and thanks are due to Deborah Hasson, Lydia Glidden, Elizabeth Mundt, Grant Miller, and Bob Mugford, who supported the majority of submissions—although it now appears that the submission process was a sham and an expensive waste of time.
If the decision had already been made, and some staff hired for a new, separate water entity, then Sam Broughton and those councillors and staff who knew but supported him have displayed to us—who pay their salaries—the ultimate in arrogance and deceit.
Keep this in mind come the October local body elections.
Fred Bull, Darfield.
ers
won’t
writer’s
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
Darfield office open: Mon & Thurs, 9 - 5pm or by appointment
DARFIELD 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.
NZ SUPER SCAM SUPER SCAM
A scam about the NZ Super increase has been circulating online, targeting those aged 50 and over, and sometimes using photos of well-known New Zealanders. If you have seen these, do not engage or click any links. Contact Netsafe to report the scam. For any information about NZ Super, please go to Work and Income orring0800552002.
KIDS KIDS’ ’’
ART
ART AND FOR ANZAC DAY FOR ANZAC DAY FOR ANZAC FOR ANZAC
AND STORIES
Children can have a go at making an ANZAC poppy to wear, see some real medals, and craft a medal for a deservingperson intheirlife at Darfield Library & Service CentreonWednesday, April23. Chris Davey, Education Officer at the Air Force Museum of New Zealand, will share the story of the ANZACs in World War One and the significance of those events for New Zealand.
Book your kids’ free spots in the Anzac Art and Stories programme now; visit tockify.com/selwynlibraries/ pinboard?search=Anzac.
TransportMinisterChrisBishop and Associate Minister James Meager announced the speed on the Christchurch Southern Motorway would increase from 100km/h to 110km/h. The speed change took effect from environment.
The decision came about after 3,975 submissions were received in total with 3,485 of these from the Christchurch/ Selwyn area. This included six submissions from organisations. Most of the submissions received (68%) support the proposed speed limit increase, with 66% strongly supporting, and 1% didn’tknow.
Other speed increases included SH75 Halswell to Tai Tapu increased to 100km/h and SH75 Tai Tapu to Little River increasedto100km/h.
OXFORD COMMUNITY OXFORD
HEALTH CENTRE TO EXP HEALTH CENTRE TO EXPAND AND AND
The Oxford Community Health Centre is actively working towards a much needed rebuild.
The Centre has outgrown its current facility and is ensuring that itcontinues todeliver high -quality healthcare services in a modern, purpose-built
Oxford Community Health Chair Mark Brown states that as a rural health provider, their mission is to deliver equitable healthcareaccesstoall.
“The new facility will not only accommodate our growing general practice services but will also provide dedicated spaces for essential allied health services, such as physiotherapy, midwifery, counselling, and mental health support. This expansion will enable us to meet the increasing healthcare needs of our community and provide comprehensive, accessible care closetohome.”
The project will take approximately 18 to 24 months to complete. Mr Brown says the current building is situated on land owned by the Waimakariri District Council.
“The Centre is actively exploring all options for a suitable site for the new facility.”
THIRD SHOP TO OPEN
For those who remember when the Butcher’s Pie Shop was originally in Hororata, you will be pleased to know the company is opening a new shop at the end of April on Blenheim Road in Christchurch, which means their pies will be available in three locations – the Bakehouse on Jones Road in Rolleston, Riverside Market on Cashel Street and now Blenheim Road. Jase and Jarnia Kupe have been making the pies for over 15 years and are excited to share the news with their current and new customers.
By Ginny Nelson, By Ginny Nelson, By Ginny By Ginny
The OCR has had another haircut, but will this filter through to lower fixed rates? One would hope so, but with Trump rattling the cages of the world economy, it may be that inflationary pressures keep the rates steady or even see them increase. Hopefully by the time this goes to print there will
At least the floating rates have come down, so it is a little easiertoridethewaveforabit toseewhereitgoes.
As always, you need to consider your personal situation and appetite for risk to decide on certainty over hope. At 5.39% for five years, there is great certainty there. That is a good deal lower than
It is worth mentioning if you are relying on Kiwisaver for your first home deposit in the short term, it may be wise to talk to your provider or financial adviser as to what fund you should be in to lower yourrisk.
Let's hope Autumn sees more thantheleavesfalling.
SELWYN NOMINATED FOR BEST MOVIE LOCATION
The Selwyn District has been nominated as one of five finalists in the Screen International 2025 Global ProductionAwards.
The stunning Selwyn scenery provided the backdrop to several major productions, and will be competing against Maraya in Saudi Arabia, the Moab Desert in Utah, Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna and Ravenscourt Park Hospital inLondon.
The awards celebrate outstanding and sustainable work in the world of film and TV production, locations and studios andthe winners willbe announced at the Cannes Film FestivalonMay19.
The Selwyn entry was part of a wider awards submission by Screen Canterbury, which also resulted in nominations for Canterbury in the Economic & Social Impact and Emerging Locationcategories.
“Selwyn District’s breathtaking and diverse landscapes have provided the perfect backdrop for recent productions, including Bookworm and Went Up the Hill,” says Denise Kidd, Executive Director Community Facilities and Services at the SelwynDistrictCouncil.
“These films have highlighted the region’s varied sceneryfrom expansive flatlands to rolling foothills and the majestic Southern Alps;
reinforcing Selwyn’s reputation as a prime filming destination.”
The Selwyn nomination sits amongst some illustrious company that includes productions like Wicked, Bridgerton, Mean Girls, Lockerbie, Love Hurts, The Day of the Jackal and Bridget Jones.
SERVICING WOF'S
DIAGNOSTICS
& SUSPENSION
Ph: 03 318 8113
15 South Terrace, Darfield
Phone: 03 318 8186 /021 0818 3828
Email: admin@darfieldcollision.co.nz
5Mathias Street, Darfield
RARE MODELS INCLUDED IN ANZAC DAY VINTAGE CAR RUN
Each year the Canterbury Branch of the Vintage Car Clubmarks Anzac Day in the Malvern area with a special run, visiting several memorials around the district to commemorate this special day of remembrance. Now a wellestablished annual event, it typically attracts about 30 or 40 veteran, vintage and classic cars ranging in age from the pre-WW1 era right through to post-WW2 models produced up to the 1970’s.
The run starts at 11.30am from the Darfield Recreation Centre on Anzac Day, however the public are welcome from 10am to see the cars on display and hear the Last Post just prior to starting the run played by Graeme Willis from Ohoka during a short remembrance ceremony led by Terry HutchinsonfromMalvernRSA.
From the Recreation Centre, the run heads on to SH73, past the Darfield war memorial near the Trinity Church, then continues through Darfield along South Terrace. It then crosses the railway at MathiasStreetand turns left into North Terrace, before turning into Kimberley Road to head north to the OldWestCoastRoad.
The first stop is the memorial in Sheffield on Railway Terrace, where the first cars are expected about 12.00pm.
Participants usually stop here for 10
minutes or so to leave poppies and paytheirrespects.
Fromtheretherunheadssouthalong SH73 and the Inland Scenic Route 72, passing through Coalgate on the way to the next stop at the Hororata memorial on the corner of Hororata Road and Downs Road, also a popularstoppingpoint.
The slower cars will then return to Coalgate and then head into Glentunnel, with the faster ones continuing along Downs Road to the Glenroy memorial, and then also returning to Glentunnel along Route 72 to join the others for lunch at the Glentunnel Community Centre from 12.30pm.
The oldest vehicle’s in this year’s run is a 1900 Wolseley belonging to Colin and Judy Winter from Dunedin and a 1909 Wolseley-Siddeley owned by event organiser Colin Hey from West Melton.
RARE MODELS INCLUDED IN ANZAC DAY VINTAGE CAR RUN
Darfield residents participating in the run include Malcolm and Anita McGibbon with their 1913 Ford Model T, and Matthew Hey with a rare 1933 Wolseley Hornet Special. The Vintage Austin Register will also have several members joining the run at the Darfield start. The run will give residents of the Malvern district a fantastic opportunity to view some of New Zealand’s rarest cars and talk to theirownersaswell.
OrganiserColin Heysays, “Anzac Day is such an important day for all New
Zealanders, and to be able to commemorate it with family, and with friends in the Vintage Car Club is special.”
Colin appreciates the support by Auto Restorations, which has provided rally plates to all entrants and helped promote the event. Other businesses who have supported the Vintage Car Club event include Birchfield Energy, and the Malvern News. Over the seven years the event has been running, it has raised over $5,000 for the Darfield RSA.
MOBILE SEED CLEANING SERVICE
Chemicals
Parliament has just risen after a three-week sitting block so I’m now looking forward to spending time in the district over the Easter break. Long sitting blocks like this mean a lot of travel away but I always try to squeeze in as many events, visits and constituent meetings as I can when I’m home. We’ve had a number of great local events recently, including the annual Malven Show and the bi-annual West Melton fete – the organisers of which both deserve huge congratulationsandthanks!
Of course, the biggest event this past fortnight was Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s visit to the electorate, which included stops at local businesses Leaft and Lanocorp, as well as a public meeting in Lincoln. Thank you to all of you who showed up to bring your burning questions, it was encouraging to see such strong support for the electorate and hear the PM outline the ways thatourGovernmentisbacking
Selwyn. Major announcements from the Government this week include a direction to public sector agencies to use wool products in construction or refurbishments of government buildings where possible, as well as more reforms to cut red-tape and boost our nationwide construction industry. We’ve also announced the final stage of reforms to the Public Works Act to make the process of purchasing land for muchneeded public projects clearer, faster and fairer. We’ve passed new legislation to make 250,000 more building products available this year alone. Finally, we’ve stripped back re-tape in consenting around the size of granny flats which will see 13,000 more built over the next decade. This will make a major difference here in Selwyn as we know we need to get the ball rolling on infrastructure and housing to better service ourquicklygrowingelectorate.
With ANZAC Day fastapproaching now is a time to remember and acknowledge the sacrifice and service of our Armed Forces, past and present. I will be attending several services across the electorate to honour our veterans and those who gave their lives to our country. I am pleased to share that the Government has taken the first steps towards changing the ANZAC Day Act to recognise those who served in conflicts after 1966. Anzac Day is the right moment to acknowledge every New Zealander who has served in war and war-like conflicts, and they deserve officialrecognitionandhonour. Looking forward to the end of the month, I wish you and your family a Happy Easter and best wishes to all the parents with theschoolholidays! As always, my office is open Monday to Friday, from 10am to 4pm. Feel free to drop by anytime if you need assistance orhaveanyquestions.
THE EVER-EVOLVING AI WORLD
Members welcomed Mr. Anthony Robins from the University of Otago’s School of Computing, who presented on the development of artificial intelligence (AI) over 75 years.
Mr. Robins explained that human intelligence consists of two systems: Conscious (fast, intuitive, automatic) and Unconscious (deliberate, slow, rule-based). Early AI attempts focused on the Unconscious system, while recent approaches emphasise the Conscious system.
AI development began at the 1956 Dartmouth Conference, where researchers established a common approach. Initially, AI used language-based rules for computers to respond to inputs, similar to early medical testing. Mr. Robins mentioned
a 1956 system called Eliza, which had mixed results. As systems grew more complex, researchers realized by the mid-70s that rule-based approaches were insu cient. An example of translation issues was the phrase “The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak,” which translated back as “The vodka is good, but the meatisspoiled.”
Researchers then shifted to artificial neural networks (ANN), modelling the brain to create systems that learn from real-world data. Successful systems require large databases of inputs. The development of fast hardware for computer gamers also benefited deep neural networks (DNNs). Research moved from academia to private corporations with larger budgets, leading to
moresecretivedevelopment. From 2016 onwards, languagebased DNNs combined with rule-based approaches appeared, such as Siri, Alexa, and Chat GPT (2022). These systems can produce language, images, voice, music, and papers, but their inner workings are commercially protected.
Professor Anthony Robins from the University of Otago’s School of Computing.
By Jacky Lawson, By Jacky Lawson, By Jacky Lawson, By Jacky Lawson, Malvern U3A. Malvern U3A. Malvern Malvern
MALVERN COLLIE CLUB ANNUAL DOG TRIALS
The Malvern Collie Club’s 115th annual trials were held at Springvale on 4 and 5 April. About 85 trialists competed in the four events held over the twodays.
During the trials, the Dave Stokes Memorial Cup was presented. The cup is awarded to a local person for outstanding contribution or achievement at the Malvern Collie Club Trials, and this year it was presented to Stu Gillanders.
Stu joined the club in 1982. He has served as president of the club, is an honorary member, and spends countless hours maintaining the grounds and buildings, and looking after sponsorship.
For many years, he slipped the sheep on the long pull course, and this year his many jobs included being a steward on thelongpullcourse.
RESULTS: RESULTS:
District Open: District Open: Open: Open: 1st Ben Millar- King 96
2ndStuart Millar- Laddie 95.25
District Maiden: Maiden: 1st Ben Musson- Bess 86
2ndToby Nisbett - Ben 79
District Open: District
1st Stuart Millar- Laddie 97
2ndGeorge Adams - Molly 95
District Maiden: District
1st Alex Jarman - Kip 79
2ndVanessa Bragan- Dot 48
Class Three Class Three- Zig Zag Zig Zag Zig Zag Zig Zag
Class One
Class One
Class One
Class One- Long Head Head
Open: Open:Open: Open:
1st Derek Deans - Troy 97pts
2ndStewart Dalzell - Cruise 96.5
3rd Ben Millar- King 96
Class Two Class Two- Short Head and Yard and Open:
1st Stuart Millar- Laddie 97
2ndGeorge Adams - Molly 95
3rd Paul Kemp- Di 92.5
THE EVER-EVOLVING AI WORLD
…. ….continuedfrompreviouspage continuedfrompreviouspage continuedfrompreviouspage continuedfrompreviouspage Mr. Robins discussed the widespread use of large systems and cautioned against false information on the internet, sharing amusing examples like walking across theEnglishChannel.
While modern AI systems are impressive, combining both Conscious and Unconscious approaches is still a work in
progress. In the evolving AI world, users should remain cautious about internet information. In a still developing AI world rather like “Buyer Beware”, it should be “InternetUserBeware.”
Please join us next month when historian Frieda Loser will talk about James McKenzie,RogueorHero.
Malvern U3A meets monthly at the Darfield Bap st Church, normally on the second Friday of the month. The group is for re red and semi re red people wan ng to widen their interests by ge8ng involved in life long learning opportuni es of all kinds and to share ac vi es in an informal friendly atmosphere. While U3A stands for the University of the Third Age, it is not a university in the modern sense of the word; there are no qualifica ons required and no exams!
Visit: www.u3amalverndarfieldnz.org for more info or come along and see for yourselves.
Huntaway Huntaway Open: Open:Open:
1st Grant Plaisted - Coke 98
2ndAngus Anderson- Jazz 97.5
3rd Amy Vreugdenhil - Base 97.25
District Open: District Open: District District
1st Dan Winter - Katie 96
2ndGeorge Adams - Max 93.5
District Maiden: District
1st Tim Sowman- Murphy 88
2ndHamish Scannell - Shane 87.5
Class Four- Straight Hunt Straight Hunt Open: Open:Open:
1st Neil Manson - Malt 98.5
2ndRichie Williams - Thug 98
3rd Ben Manson- Bob 96.5
District Open: District Open: District District
1st Dan Winter - Tone 94
2ndByron Kirk - Trump 90
District Maiden: District Maiden: District District
1st Byron Kirk - Trump 90
2ndBayley Donald- Flo 89
Stu Gillanders and Nicky Stokes with the Dave Stokes Memorial Cup.
DARFIELD WOMEN’S CHAMPIONS IN TOP FORM
The Bowls Darfield Women's 4s Club Champions team has proven their strength and determination, exceeding expectations in the Canterbury Champion of Champions competition –punching above their weight is something that's fast becoming routine for this small rural club.
The team was made up of Hazel Littlejohn, Liz Hamilton (who stepped in to replace the injured Freda Posthumus), Diane Currie, and Claire Stevenson.
With remarkable determination, the team, which features two players with a combined total of just five years playing experience, progressed nearly all the way.
Facing off in the semi-final match on Saturday against Club Redcliffs proved a tight game with lots of to-and-fro on the scoreboard, plus a couple of killed ends as the women battled for the winning points. Ultimately however, the women lost by three points. This achievement marked an exciting milestone and the journey to be amongst the top four in Canterbury exceeded many expectations. Pictured from left to right, Liz Hamilton, Hazel Littlejohn, Claire Stevenson and Diane Currie.
DOUBLE THE STRIPES, DOUBLE THE CUTENESS
Forthefirsttimeinover30years,sta atOranaWildlifePark are thrilled to announce the arrival of two adorable zebra foals!
Visitors now have the rare chance to meet these striking additionsandwatchthemexploretheirnewworld.
Exotic Species Manager Craig Gilchrist says the team is thrilled: “We’re really excited about the adorable foals, and we can’t wait for visitors to meet our new kids on the block.
Herbie is nearly four months old; he’s cheeky, full of personality, and growing fast. The younger foal is just six weeks old, a little shy, and still waiting for a name as we are yettoconfirmitssex”.
“We’re inviting the public to bring their kids to meet ours. Don’t miss your chance to witness these stunning youngsters theseholidays,”saysCraig.
To celebrate our double-trouble duo, kids can visit Orana free during the April School Holidays!
Two children aged 5–15 years go free with each paying adult.
Valid unHl 27 April.
Burnham 6am Dawn Parade, Army Camp gates Serviceandwreathlayingceremony
Darfield 8.45am District War Memorial, Trinity Church WreathlayingceremonyfollowedbyserviceatTrinityChurch
Dunsandel 8.30am District War Memorial CornerLeeston-DunsandelRd&RailwayRd.Wreathlayingceremony
Glenroy 7am Meet at the Monument ServicefollowedbysausageandbaconrollsattheGlenroyHall
Glentunnel 9.25am Meet at Glentunnel Primary School 9.30am Parade to Community Centre for service MorningTeatofollow
Kirwee 12pm Inaugural Service at Anzac Lane (by water shed), Kirwee Recreation Reserve Service followed by wreath laying ceremony
Kowai Service follows on from conclusion of Springfield’s ceremony (around midday)
Mead/ Te Pirita 9.00am Mead Hall Memorial gates Wreathlayingceremony
Rolleston 11am Service at Town Square - by Te Ara Ātea ParadeattendeesmeetnearScoutdenat10:15am
Sheffield 8.00am District War Memorial Servicefollowedbywreathlayingceremony
Springfield 11.00am Tawera Memorial Hall ServicefollowedbywreathlayingceremonyatDistrictWarMemorial West Melton 9:45am West Melton War Memorial in School grounds Servicefollowedbywreathlayingceremony
The Malvern Farmers Vet Club Charitable Trust (MFVCCT) would like to invite individuals, community groups and organisations to apply for grants from our organisation. The MFVCCT purpose is to advance the welfare of our rural community and the individuals connected to the community.
This involves distributing grants that meet the following criteria:
• The strengthening of charitable community and voluntary organisations involved in the relief of poverty
• The advancement of education
• The provision of financial support for specific community projects that advance charitable purposes
• The strengthening of charitable community and voluntary organisations
• The provision of financial and other support in anticipation of or in response to emergencies or adverse events
• The enhancement and retention of essential services that advance charitable purposes.
To apply for grants please visit: mfvc.org.nz or email mfvcinfo@gmail.com for more information. All applications to be received by 30th April 2025.
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.
BUSINESS CARDS
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
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.
CARPET/WINDOWS
CARPET CARPET CARPET/Window Cleaning. Thorough job, good price, quick drying. Highly recommended. Phone/ text Robert anytime on 0272999599.
CHIMNEY CLEANING
CARRS CARRS Chimney Cleaning. Servicing the Selwyn district. $80 per chimney. Please ph Rodney on 03 324 2999 and leaveamessage.
• Purpose built, nestled in a tranquil, rural setting.
• Close proximity to all main centres. Phone: 027 433 3564 www.catsoncourtenay.nz
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.
COUNSELLING
CONFIDENTIAL
CONFIDENTIAL, professional counselling/therapy. Offering valuable support as you navigate life's challenges. Freeintroductory 1/2hr consultation. Lisa Mills 0278140785.
$7 per small bale, delivered. 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
• Rod Oliver Glentunnel - 027 666 8941
• Anthony Dalzell Coalgate - 027 2406 501
Church, Springfield Sunday 20 April 9:30am Trinity Church , Darfield malvernparish.wixsite.com/ malvern-parish
Please phone Kane 0274676613.
LEASE LEASELEASE LEASE land wanted. Selwyn area suitable for cattle grazing. All sizes consider. Please phone Reg 027 567 0720. LEASE LAND WANTED
LIVESTOCK
RAMS RAMS RAMS RAMS for sale. Your flock, whatever its size, needs a Rambo now for spring lambs. Merinos, half breeds, Romneys, Border Leicester & Sufftex. White or black, brown, grey or spotted. All local. Proven genetics. Your choice, at very reasonable prices.Phone0274361389.
MORTGAGE ADVISOR
ARE ARE AREyouinneedofarefinance, firsthomeloan,buyinganew home,investmentpropertyor a property development? I deal with all the lenders, and Icangetyouthebestdealto suityou.Ihave30+yearsof lending experience, and I am local. I can come to you. Alan Lover Loan Market 027 2516644. I bring the bankstoyou.
CATTERY
PLANTS FOR SALE
EMERALD FARM EMERALD EMERALD FARM Native Plants, locally sourced. Lots of varieties. Call and see if we have what you need. Phone Annie0273702067.
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 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 DEAD cars - we buy dead cars, end of life cars, scrap cars, old farm vehicles. Cash paid. Pleasephone0274848121.
TRADES
TRADES
Wanting a deck to add that finishing touch? Call Je Chapman 027 357 3139
Darfield based, working Canterbury wide. All Maintenance, Hot Water Cylinders, Log burners, Spouting, Rainwater Harvest, Wetbacks, Pumps, Alterations (new and existing)
A lady was reading the newspaper on Easter Sunday, while her husband was engrossed in a magazine.
Suddenly she busted out laughing. “Listen to this,” she said. “There’s a classified advert in the paper where a guy is o4ering to swap his wife for a season ticket to the stadium.”
“Hmmm,” her husband said, not looking up from his magazine.
Teasing him, she said, “Would you swap me for a season ticket too?”
“Absolutely not,” he said quietly. “How sweet,” Sarah said. “Why not?” “The season is more than half over.”
