Brian & Rose Walker 0800 667 778 www.spiderban.com ‘Owned and operated in Darfield since
People throughout the Selwyn district are mourning the passing of Selwyn’s former mayor Bill Woods (82) from Springfield.Billwasthesecond elected mayor of Selwyn districtandservedforoneterm from1992to1995.
MrWoods,whowasconsidered to be a perennial candidate, standing for mayor over a period of 20 years, once said he was “addicted” to elections.
Hewasaformercouncillorand served on many committees locallyinSelwynandthewider Canterburyarea.
Local politics were close to Bill’s heart. In a previous electoral race, he said there was a “definite urban-rural divide in Selwyn” and he wanted to “make sure rural people felt part of a total district.” He campaigned tirelessly for road safety and for services to be kept up to date with the rapid growth populationinthedistrict.
Acknowledging Bill’s passing online, Mayor Sam Broughton said, “On behalf of the Selwyn District Council it is with sadnessthatIacknowledgethe passingofBillWoods,aformer
Mayor of Selwyn and a man who gave much of his life in service to our district. To Bill’s familyandfriends,Iextendmy condolences. Bill’s legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and in the district he helpedshape.”
From the Malvern Community Board:“It iswithutmost regret we, MCB, pay our respect to a stalwart of the Malvern community and the Selwyn District, ex-mayor Bill Woods. May those who come after you carry the same passion, determination and boldness you brought to local governance. Thank you for your service. Our heartfelt condolences go out to family andfriendsofBill.”
Tyrone Fields (Councillor for Banks Peninsula) also o ered hiscondolences:“Ijustwantto pay a small tribute to Bill Woods who passed away over Easter. I knew Bill through my involvement with the Summit RoadSocietyasourcommunity board’s appointee, where he was the president for many years. He was also notably the mayor of Selwyn for three years. Bill was a top bloke,
committedtoconservationand community and was always very kind to me in our interactions. RIP Bill, you will bemissed.”
Bill’s funeral memorial was held at the Springfield TownhallonMondayApril28.
“CondolencestoBill’sfamily and friends. Bill assisted Jan Crossleyandmyselfintackling thechallengeofrelocatingthe old Lake Coleridge Golf ClubhousetoDarfield,whereit became the Malvern News o ceforanumberofyears. WithoutBill’shelp,thatproject mayneverhavegoneahead. His assistance with that and much more was greatly appreciated. – Jan Thomas, Editor."
KEEPING OUR KIDS SAFE ONLINE
Held on Monday, May 19, the evening,presentedbyfounders of Our Kids Online Rob and Zareen Cope, is aimed at all parents, particularly preschool and primary-aged children, but alsocoveringhighschoolyears too.
Darfield Primary School PTA felt it was important to bring some awareness and some toolstoparents,caregiversand grandparents of our techexposedchildren.
“Many think they know what their kids are up to online, but there are so many ways in which we don't know how it's a ecting our children, their relationships, their expectations of the world.”
Rob Cope will deliver a twohour, down to earth, honest and humorous presentation on the challenges faced in today's ever-changing digital world, ways our children may be a ected and o ers helpful tools that parents can put in place to protect them.
Founded in 2018 by Rob and Zareen, Our Kids Online began as a response to a pivotal moment: all four children in their blended family started asking for handheld devices. With both Rob and Zareen having authored books in the mentalhealthspace,theywere deeply concerned by the rising ratesofanxietyanddepression among tweens and teens. This sparked an intense journey of researchanddiscovery. What they uncovered was
alarming—aglobalepidemic of onlineharmsa ectingchildren of all ages. Determined to make a di erence, they committed themselves to helping parents and caregivers understandtheserisks,o ering practical safety solutions and guidance on building emotional resilience in kids through their Cyber Safety Presentations.
YOUTH WEEK YOUTH YOUTHWEEK WEEK YOUTH WEEK ’25 ’25 CARNIVAL CARNIVAL CARNIVAL CARNIVAL Selwyn Youth is celebrating the incredible young people in Selwyn with an epic YOUTH WEEK CARNIVAL on May 24 from 12pm to pm at the Rolleston Town Centre. Youth are invited to take part in the day with free food and drinks, marketstalls,liveperformance, games and activities, and so much more. Bring your friends, spread the word, and come be partofthefun.
ADVENTURES IN ADVENTURES ADVENTURESIN IN PARENTLAND WITH PARENTLAND PARENTLANDWITH WITH NIGEL LATTA NIGELLATTA
This showcase event kickstarts Selwyn Parenting Week. The eveningwithoneofAotearoa’s most well-known and straighttalking psychologists, Nigel Latta, is on Monday, May 12, 7pm at the Lincoln Events Centre. Nigel will provide a load of evidence-based tools and tips to make the journey less bumpy. Just because the issues are complex doesn’t mean thesolutions have to be.
In fact, the stu that really mattersissurprisinglysimple… so there’s plenty of good news to be had. Visit Humanitix to booktickets.
HAVE A HMMM ON YOUR HAVE A HMMM ON YOUR A HMMM ON YOUR A HMMM ON YOUR NEXT HUNT NEXT NEXTHUNT HUNT NEXT HUNT Firearms Safety Authority NZ and New Zealand Mountain Safetywant you tobesafeand stay injury-free this Roar season. “There's an old saying, if you want to travel far and fast,thentravellight.Wethink that’s good advice for hunters too. This Roar, do your butchery in the field to avoid carrying out a whole deer carcass. You’ll not only reduce the chance of another hunter mistaking you for a deer but also prevent unnecessary wear -and-tear on your body.” Visit mountainsafety.org.nz/learn/ have-a-hmmm.
DUCK SHOOTING DUCK DUCKSHOOTING SHOOTING DUCK SHOOTING OPENING DAY OPENING OPENINGDAY DAY Game bird season o cially starts this weekend on May 3. The game bird hunting and
duckshootingseasonisatimehonoured tradition in New Zealand. From early May, hunters, dressed head-totoe in camo, flock to custombuilt maimais armed with shotguns, decoys and duck callers in search of feathered game. Duck shooting season isn't just about bagging birds, it's also about hanging out with friends and family (including the canine variety) andenjoyingtheoutdoors.
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.
Image: freepik.com
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.
NEW LIFE FOR THE DARFIELD JAIL
The Darfield Residents' Association has o cially taken over the management of the historic Darfield Jail from the Selwyn District Council and is now breathing new life into thislocallandmark.
Aprojectiscurrentlyunderway to update the signage and historical information at the site, ensuring that both locals and visitors can learn more aboutitsuniquepast.
Aspart ofthise ort,long-time residents Di Woodward and Matt Williams are leading the charge to collect histories relatedtoboththeDarfieldJail and the nearby Homebush Railway Station. These stories will be made available for the public to enjoy, o ering a richer and more personal
insightintothearea'sheritage. If you have memories, photographs, or stories connected to either site, Di or Matt would love to hear from you. Community contributions are an important part of preserving our local history for futuregenerations.
AgrandreopeningoftheJailis planned for September, with theaimofmakingitastandout attraction for both tourists and the local community alike. Keep an eye out for more details in the coming months. Contact Di on 027 69 8916 or Matton0212448443.
ROOKIE OF THE YEAR
Last year Hannah King, Black Ferns player and ex-Darfield High School student, was touted as being one of four women who were ‘Rugby stars ontherise.’
In April this year, Hannah, who plays for Matatū, was awarded the South Island Super Rugby Aupiki 2025 Koru Award winner for ‘Rookie of the Year’.
The Koru Award is gifted to a
playerintheirfirsttwoyearsof upiki, who has performed
exceptionally well for the club.
Hannah King.
It’s already May! We are whizzing through the year so far with the first quarter of it already behind us. It has been lovely to have a break over Easter before getting out across the district on ANZAC Day where I attended services at Burnham, Leeston, Kirwee, and Lincoln. It was heartening to see so many people paying their respects. A big thank you to the RSAs across Selwyn for the organisation of so many well-runservices.
In the last fortnight Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced the Q2 Plan for the next three months ahead. It includes actions to boost tourism and international education, as well as pushing ahead on our 30-year National Infrastructure Plan to attract investment and give our construction sector long-term certainty. A bigger economy means more jobs, higher incomes, and more money in
people’s back pockets. It also means we can afford the health and education services Kiwisdeserve.
For further evidence that our Government is getting the economy back on track, in the last fortnight theReserveBank announced a further reduction to the Official Cash Rate (OCR) – a cut of 25 basis points to 3.5 percent. These cuts are pushing banks to lower mortgage interest rates. This follows other recent positive economic news, with Stats NZ announcing that GDP grew by 0.7 percent in the December 2024 quarter, showing New Zealand’s economy is turning the corner. We’ve also tamed inflation – now at 2.2 percent, down from a high of 7.3percentunderLabour.
Defence Minister Judith Collins recently announced the new Defence Capability Plan which will boost our operability domestically and
internationally. Specifically in the Selwyn region, Burnham military camp will be receiving long-needed upgrades to its military accommodation as well as gaining a new regional supplyfacility.
In other news, I am delighted to announce that my 2025 Youth MP is Lucy Garner from Rolleston College. I was impressed by her passion for youth issues and her leadership skills. I am very impressed by how enthusiastic the young people in Selwyn are to represent our community. The calibre of applications I received was overwhelming and I want to congratulate everyone who applied.
As always, my office is open Monday to Friday, from 10am to 4pm. Feel free to drop by anytime if you need assistance orhaveanyquestions.
NEED A NEW WINTER HOBBY?
If you are wondering what you candooverthewintermonths, then head to the Darfield Smallbore Rifle Club and have agoat smallboretargetshooting.TheClubholdssessionson a Monday night at 7pm for beginner shooters, or Tuesday nights at 7pm for the more experienced.
Andrea Barnhill says, “Target shooting is heaps of fun and a great challenge for all ages. It is also a great way to meet
localsfromtheDarfieldarea.If youhavenevershotbeforebut have always wanted to give it ago–youdon’tneedanything – just bring yourself. We can supplyalltheequipmentneeded to have a go.
Telegraph roads and the 25yard indoor range offers both proneandbenchrest shooting. Casual shoots are just $6, which covers everything you'll need – usage of a club rifle and equipment, target and ammunition.
OUT OF THE AREA FUNDING
DISTRICT COUNCILS NOT ASKED TO FUND STADIUM OPERATIONS
According to Christchurch City Council-run Venues Ōtautahi, district ratepayers won't have to contribute to the running costs of Christchurch's new stadium. Instead, a commercial model will cover the costs, and a possible ticket levy for people from outside Christchurch is being considered.
Mayor Sam Broughton says, “Any potential contribution from Selwyn would have needed to be considered during the initial stages of the
stadium's planning, allowing us the opportunity to consult with our community and provide input into the design. Having said that, we are glad to see this great facility near completion and recognise the value it brings to theregion as awhole.”
He believes the fairness of a ticket levy would entirely depend on the specific details of the proposal. “It's important to keep in mind that all taxpayersinNewZealandhave contributed to the funding of
the stadium through central government funding. Any decisiononaticketlevyshould consider these contributions and the broader impact on thoseattendingevents.”
Venues Ōtautahi is still working out the details of a proposedticket levyfor people from outside Christchurch. They expect to have a clearer idea by June 30 and will provide more information when they release their final statement of intent for 20262028.
COUNCIL OPPOSES ADDITIONAL FUNDING REQUEST
Canterbury Museum's $250 million redevelopment is at risk of being halted unless an additional $50 million is secured by January 2026.
Despite this urgency, the Christchurch City Council and the Government — its main funders — have not yet confirmed any further contributions.
The museum has requested $21.1 million from the city council, while it expects $25 million from the Government and nearly $4 million from nearby district councils. The remaining $36.6 million is planned to be raised through philanthropicdonations.
The Selwyn District Council has opposed this request. In
the Council’s last Long-Term Plan it committed a $1,591,594 levy each year for thenextfourtotheCanterbury MuseumTrust.
Mayor Sam Broughton says Council has now been asked for an additional $194,088 next year and an additional $582,264 for each of the following three years, which wouldbeatotalof$1.940,880 to fund the shortfall of the museumredevelopment.
“The Council has concerns around the transparency of the Trustspending,thelackofcost control measures to prevent further budget escalations and lack of clarity around Central Government and donor contributions to make up the
other 2/3 share of the funding shortfall,” says Mayor Broughton. “The Council on April 16 decided to start the process to challenge the levy increases and give notice to the board that it does not supporttheincrease.”
HesaysthatprovidedCouncil’s notice is supported by other contributing funding partners and levies are not increased, Council will consult with the community on how additional fundingsought bytheMuseum istobefundedbySelwyn.
Only two district councils, Hurunui and Waimakariri, have verbally agreed to provide fundingsofar.
CONSULTATION BUILDINGS POLICY
may pose safety risks, and the reviewincludesminor updates, such as a flow diagram for clarity.
procedures for addressing buildings that
Executive Director Robert Love emphasises the importance of the policy in ensuring public safety and encourages residents to contribute their thoughts before the consultation closes on May 23.
Phone:
Hesays,“Wewanttohearfrom our residents to make sure the draft policy is clear and e ective. Their feedback will help ensure the final policy workswellforeveryone.”
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.
GROW 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
COUNSELLING
CONFIDENTIAL CONFIDENTIAL, professional counselling/therapy. Offering valuable support as you navigate life's challenges. Freeintroductory 1/2hr consultation. Lisa Mills 0278140785.
CHIMNEY CLEANING
LIFESTYLE LIFESTYLE, farm tracks, yards and dairy lanes our speciality. Screened rottenrock, it’s local and lasts better. Phone Springfield Quarryon3184132. DRIVEWAYS
DIGITAL DESIGN
3rd Sunday -9.30am GreendaleMethodistChurch -11am SundaySchoolRoom, StAmbrose,She&ield BUSINESS CARDS
• Purpose built, nestled in a tranquil, rural setting.
• Close proximity to all main centres.
Phone: 027 433 3564 www.catsoncourtenay.nz
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 anysizedopenfire.Wequote and undertake repairs, flue extensions and install bird netting. Please phone us on 021939113.
CARPET/WINDOWS
CARPET CARPET CARPET/Window Cleaning. Thorough job, good price, quick drying. Highly recommended. Phone/ text Robert anytime on 0272999599.
FARM EQUIPMENT FARM for sale. Briford10x6TrailorandStock crate - $4,500. 3 point linkage fert-spreader ‘AgQuip’steelhopper350kgs - $325. Hydraulic Roll/hay feeder ‘Taege’ older model works well - $800. All good offers considered. Darfield based. Please phone 318 2715evenings.
Malvern Lions have PEA STRAW
AVAILABLE
$7 per small bale, delivered. Phone now for delivery.
in Darfield area. Domestic hedge trimming, pruning, edging, lawns and water blasting. Please phone Kane 0274676613.
LEASE LAND WANTED
LEASE LEASELEASE LEASE land wanted. Selwyn area suitable for cattle grazing. All sizes consider. Please phone Reg 027 567 0720.
MORTGAGE ADVISOR
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.
PLANTS FOR SALE
locally sourced. Lots of varieties. Call and see if we have what you need. Phone Annie0273702067.
Co-operating Parish (Methodist, Presbyterian)
Welcome Services - followed by a cuppa
st &4th Sunday -9:30am TrinityChurch,Darfield
2nd Sunday -9:30am SundaySchool,TrinityChurch
SUNDAY 4 May, 9:30
St Peter’s, Springfield 5pm St George’s Kirwee malvernparish.wixsite.com/ malvern-parish
Inspections. Also providing Total Rural and Residential Property Management Solutions. Please phone Rebecca 027 313 2270 or email rebecca@ruraltenancy.co.nz
KITCHENS KITCHENS KITCHENS 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.PleasephoneLex027 4393926or3490150.
WANT WANT WANT WANTItWelded-Mobilewelder can come to you. All types of welding done. Help support small new business. Phone 02102890736.
Darfield based, working Canterbury wide. All Maintenance, Hot Water Cylinders, Log burners, Spouting, Rainwater Harvest, Wetbacks, Pumps, Alterations (new and existing)
