ThisSaturday,July12,WestMeltonRugbyClubwill combine passion for the game with purpose, hosting a special charity match and auction to raise vital funds for the New Zealand Cancer Society.
The highlight of the day will be the Division 1 Stallions taking on Southbridge, with kicko& at 2:45pm,howeverthematchisjust thebeginning of anaction-packedandheartfeltevening.
To mark the occasion, the Stallions will be wearing limited edition jerseys created especially for the event – and you could take one home. The first two jerseys will go under the hammer in a live auction at 6pm in the clubrooms, followed by a silent auction running throughout the evening. Then, during half-time of the All Blacks test match (screening live on the big screen), another four jerseys will be sold in the final round of live bidding.
The silent auction will close at 9:30pm, giving everyone a fair chance to grab a piece of rugby history – all while supporting a cause that a&ects 1 in3NewZealandersintheirlifetime.
This meaningful community event is proudly sponsored by Stevie Golding and Steve Alfeld of Harcourts Four Seasons Realty, Hornby, and all club members and supporters are warmly encouragedtoattend.
So, bring your mates, wear your colours, and dig deep – every bid and every cheer helps make a di&erence.
Jack Barnes from West Melton Stallions modelling one of the limited edition jerseys that are going to be auctioned off on Saturday night.
HOMEKILL PROCESSING SERVICE
PREDATOR FREE TRAP LIBRARY
Localsareinvitedtotheo cial launchoftheMalvernPredator Free Trap Library, taking place on Sunday, July 13, 2025,from 1pm to 3pm at Glentunnel Community Centre, 2653 Homebush Road. This free, family-friendly event marks an exciting step in the district’s journey to becoming predator free – and comes with a special guest whose tales are as wild as the backcountry he hailsfrom.
Sam the Trapman, recently featured on Country Calendar, will share his incredible journeyfromrebelliousteento full-time bushman. Known oscreen as Sam Gibson, his life reads like an adventure novel
– from trapping in freezing SouthIslandwinters,torun-ins with wildlife, and his allconsuming passion for protecting native species. With humour, grit, and plenty of unforgettable yarns, Sam brings both inspiration and practicalwisdomtothetable.
The event is supported by UWCC (Upper Waimakariri Catchment Collective), Darfield ITM, and Glentunnel School, who have joined forces to establish the Trap Library – a freecommunityresourceaimed athelpinglocalsplaytheirpart inreducingpredatornumbers.
As well as Sam’s talk, attendees can learn about the Malvern Predator Free project,
get a guided introduction to safe and e ective trap setting, and find out how to borrow traps from the library to use at home.
This is a grassroots initiative with big goals – and it’s all about locals helping locals to make a real di erence for our environment.
Imagesource:ForestandBird.
SANTA PARADE REGISTRATIONS NOW OPEN
The Darfield Residents Association is excited to announce the return of the Darfield Santa Parade in 2025 on Saturday, December 20 – a cherished tradition believed to have last taken place a long time ago, possibly 40-50 years ago. This year, the Association is bringing it back to life for the Darfield and Malvern community.
Expect vibrant floats, cultural
performances, festive music, and plenty of community spirit as the community comes together to celebrate the season with tamariki, families, andneighbours.
If you or your organisation/ business would like to take part with a float, walking group, performance, or other creative entry — you can now register online at the
Association’s website –darfield.org.nz or for those who are unable to fill the online form, pick up a registration form from the Darfield Library. Once your registration is received, more details – including float lineup, health and safety guidelines, and parade instructions – will be sent to youviaemail.
Registra ons are open un l Thursday, August 21. For more informa on or queries, email darfieldresidentsassocia on@gmail.com.
Floats from the parade in the 1950’s. Above is the Plunket float and below is the Post Office.
SHEFFIELD POOL SAVED
Through the newly formed Tāwera Community Trust, the community entered into a sale and purchase agreement with Selwyn District Council for the transfer of the She eld Memorial Pool facility. The settlement date for the transfer is subject to fulfilment of a couple of conditions the trust is working hard with the Counciltosatisfy.
The Tāwera Community Trust is made up of five trustees –Michelle Webster, Tegan Holdem, Nigel Easson, Katie McCabe and Zara Sandom. The Trust has been set up with a purpose that not only allows it to own and operate the memorial pool for the community but has the ability to assist and support with other facilities or services intended to benefit the local communityintothefuture.
The Trust is hosting ‘Dive into Details’, a community Q&A evening on August 14 from 6.30pm for people to learn
more about the trust and discuss the opportunities as well as the challenges ahead for the facility. Come and join themforacuppaandachat.
The Trust has begun applying for grantstowardsthepooltub refurbishment, new pool cover, as well as upgrading the security/key system. Plans are also underway for fundraising activities to fund the every day operational costs of running a pool.
In spring, the Trust will host a community working bee, with the Council providing a skip to help with the clean out of the facility.
It is with a huge amount of gratitude that the Trust thanks itssupporters:
With heaps to do and lots of plans, the Trust is keen to get onwithit–watchthisspace!
DARK SKY CELEBRATION
View Hill School is looking up to the stars with their upcoming ‘Discover the Night’ community event on Saturday, July19 from 6pmto8pm (with a postponement date of Saturday,July26).
The event is run in collaboration with Oxford Dark Sky, the University of Canterbury and the Royal Astronomical Society of New Zealand. Visitors to the event will have the opportunity to embark on a journey through the wonders of the universe with engaging educational activities that promise to spark curiosity and awe in stargazers ofallages.
This community extravaganza is not just about stargazing— it's a celebration of togetherness! With a myriad of activities, delectable food, soul -stirring music, and opportunities for shared learning, 'Discover the Night' promisesaneveningfilledwith fun and connection for the wholefamily.
Spokesperson Angelina
Stephens says the night is a fundraiser for the school swimming pool. “Our school pool is a vital asset for our ruralTamariki.”
After theearthquakes, thepool was saved thanks to the generosityofone oftheschool families and local businesses. However, the current pool is aging and maintaining it is a challenge.
“Wearenowlookingtoreplace it to ensure it is around for years to come. Swimming and water safety are essential life skills, especially for rural children who live near water,” says Angelina. Transporting students to other pools is not an option due to cost and logisticalchallenges.
“Without a local pool, many of our childrenwouldmissout on learning to swim. We are fundraising to help replace our school pool so future generations can learn to swim safely.”
The event is a unique celebration of New Zealand’s darkskyheritage.
“Grab dinner, enjoy one of our sell-out hot chocolates and learnaboutournightsky,”says Angelina. “All proceeds will go toward ensuring our Tamariki have access to a safe, local placetolearntoswim.”
CAN YOU HELP MOTUEKA?
One of our locals, Shona McGregor,ispackinguphercar with fresh fruit and veges and heading o to Motueka Valley to give some aid to those who have lost their homes and livelihoods to flooding. Seventy-seven roads were closedduetofloodingoverthe Nelsondistrict.
She says she was talking to a friendinthearea,whosaidthe region was shattered by what had happened. “People are without their homes; orchards are wiped out – it’s devastating.”
She decided while chatting to her friend that she wanted to help the communities up there
whohavelostsomuch. “Myideaisto takeup fruit and veges and/or other food items tohelpoutthecommunity.She hasapproachedtwobusinesses in Darfield but says if anyone canhelp out bydonatingitems offood, shewouldbehappyto
takeit.
If you can help out with donations of fruit, veges and other food items or give some koha, give Shona a call on 027 300 9488 to organise a time forcollectionordropo .
WINTER EUCHRE AT KIRWEE
It is over 10 years since Jim Brooker and Elaine Miller instigated a series of Euchre nights at the Kirwee Bowling Club during the winter. These card nights have proved popular with the local community over the years –the latest series is now underway on Friday evenings and is again being attended by asupportivecrowd.
Each night up to 32 people attend, enjoying the company, the competition, and the chance to get out on a winter evening. A half-time as well as a full-time prize are awarded each night, and points are aggregated over all six evenings to determine a series winner. A ra e is available, and a tasty sandwich supper is provided. Funds raised go to
the bowling club, but the connection with the communityisasmuchareason tocontinuetheEuchrenightas the income is. Kirwee Bowling Club appreciates all who supportthisevent.
Thirsty Acres doing good in Thirsty Acres doing good in Thirsty Acres good in Thirsty Acres good in the community thecommunity community
The Club also appreciates the support of Jono Alve of Thirsty
Acres, Kirwee’s watering hole. Jonoispassionateabout giving back to the community he operates in and for a few months now, he has been running Meat Ra e Thursdays to help local organisations raise some funds. For the month of July, the proceeds will go to the Kirwee Bowling Club.
Flooding in Motueka Valley has swamped homes and livelihoods. Photo: Nelson Tasman Civil Defence
MALAYSIAN PARLIAMENTARY DELEGATION VISITS SELWYN
A delegation from Malaysia’s Parliament Public Accounts Committee (PAC), which oversees government spending and accountability, paid a special visit to Selwyn on June 27, 2025, thanks to international connections of JohnVerry,DeputyChair ofthe MalvernCommunityBoard. Followingo cialengagements in Wellington—where they observed oral question time in New Zealand’s House of Representatives—the delegation travelled to Christchurch and Selwyn to better understand how local government in New Zealand operates,particularlyinrapidly growingdistricts.
The delegation received a briefingonhowSelwynDistrict Council manages population growth, funds infrastructure, and plans future development. The group also toured several local subdivisions at various stagesofcompletion.
PAC Vice Chair Teresa Kok, MP for Seputeh, described the highlight of the visit as meeting with Malaysian students and professionals
living in Canterbury. "Our dialogue with the Malaysian diaspora, including students at the University of Canterbury andmembersoftheCanterbury Malaysian Society, was deeply meaningful. Special thanks to Tony Gan for arranging this," shesaid.
Bruce Russell, Chair of the Malvern Community Board, reflected on the visit’s wider significance. “The Board’s involvement in arranging this
delegation reinforces our commitment to transparent governance and community representation. It’s also a great reminder of how local communities can contribute to internationalunderstanding.”
This successful visit underscores how grassroots democracy and strong community leadership in Malvernareofgrowinginterest not just nationally, but globally.
John Verry, far right, with members of the Malaysia’s Parliament Public Accounts Committee (PAC). Photo: Tony Gan
WINTER TYRES
Winter tyres, also known as snow tyres, are made with a softer rubber compound and deeper treads specifically designed to maintain grip in wintry conditions, ie cold weather (below 7°C), ice and snow.
If you’re travelling in snowy conditions often, consider having winter tyresfitted. Only use winter tyres when and where they’re required and never mix winter tyres with othertyres.
Winter tyres can be dangerous if they are not fitted or maintainedcorrectly.You need to make sure that the following two requirements aremet:
If you need winter tyres on
your vehicle, they must be fittedonallroadwheels.
Winter tyres must have a tread depth of at least 4mm in the groovesofthetyrethatusually containstreaddepthindicators.
If a vehicle fitted with winter
tyresispresentedforawarrant of fitness or certificate of fitnessinspectionanddoesnot meet these two requirements, the vehicle will fail its inspection.
PLAN FOR A SAFE, ENJOYABLE JOURNEY
Keep up to date with:
♦ Tra&ic updates: journeys.nzta.govt.nz/tra&ic
♦ Facebook Canterbury & West Coast :www.facebook.com/nztacwc
Automatic vehicle headlights, while helpful, should not be solely relied upon. Always be prepared to manually override the system in conditions like rain, fog, or when visibility is low, and ensure you understand how your specific systemworks.
Familiarise yourself with your car's automatic headlight
settings and how to switch to manualcontrolifneeded.
Before driving, particularly in conditions where visibility might be reduced, doublecheck that your headlights are on, even if the automatic systemisengaged.
Don't solely rely on automatic lights in bad weather. Relying solely on automatic headlights
TAKE CARE DRIVING IN ICE AND SNOW
Visibility is especially important in snowy conditions. Whenitissnowing,you should have your headlights dipped, notonfullbeam(highbeam)— andyoucanuseyourfoglights ifyourvehiclehasthem.
When heading out in icy or snowy conditions, carry warm clothes, water and snacks in case you get stuck or need to waitforconditionstopass.You should also make sure you
have enough range or at least half a tank of petrol in case of detoursanddiversions.
If you’re planning to drive in snow and ice, aim to travel in the middle of the day when visibilityisbetter.
Pull over somewhere safe if you needtostop.Callatowing company to help you if you're stuck.
Call 111 in an emergency. Call 111 in an emergency. 111 in emergency. 111 in emergency.
in conditions like heavy rain, fog,orsnowcanberisky. Beawareofyour surroundings. Stay vigilant and be prepared to adjust your lighting as needed.
If your wipers are on, your lights should be on too. Turn your headlights on dipped when it’s raining– you’ll likely need to do this manually duringtheday. You should use your lights when it’s raining because many of us have silver, grey, or white vehicles which easily blend into the road,greysky,andwaterspray. Having your headlights on dipped makes you more visible to everyone and helps you see theroad.
For all your small excava on requirements
• Site & Garden Clearance
• Lawn Construc on (Small & Large)
• Driveways
• Hole boring (200 – 600)
• Sheep & Ca/le Yard Clean Outs
• Shingle Supplies
Give Neil a call on 022 451 7207 or email neiljudith@xtra.co.nz Nothing’s a Problem!
DARFIELD UKULELE MIDWINTER STRUM
Last Saturday, Darfield came alive with the sound of over 100 musicians from various ukulele clubs from the greater Christchurch area, as well as Ashburton, as they joined together for the third annual Darfield Ukulele Midwinter Strum.
Thedaystartedwithamorning open mic kindly hosted by our
local Grain and Grape restaurant where some talented solo performers and small groups entertained. Musicians then gathered for the main event at the Darfield Recreation hall with a big strum along lead by locals Richard Moulton, Melissa Jebsen, Adele Langlands, and also Natalie Perzylo from Christchurch.
There was also an opportunity for invited ukulele groups to perform items. The afternoon was filled with song, laughter, andamazingmusic.
Everyone enjoyed it so much we are already planning for nextyear’sevent!
JUNE RAINFALL REPORT 2025
SPRINGFIELD By Tom Innes
SPRINGFIELD By Tom Innes
We recorded 134mm for the month compared to an expected 83mm. This brings the total so far this year to 629mm, with five of the last six months being above average, and February well below.
This month's precipitation included 3cm of snow on June 7. We have had a couple of decent frost this month, but also a fair amount of overcast andgloomyweather.Beingthe dead of winter, daylength is short, which can make it feel a bit gloomy. Our o -grid power system struggles with it too. On the bright side, we have had some beautiful days, the water tanks are full, and soil moisturelevelsaregood.
ANNAT by Allan Hogg ANNAT by Allan I tipped-out 100.75mm for the month,from atotaloffourteen days.
Our average for June was 73.63mm, the fifth wettest in thirty-five years. Our wettest overall was 202.25mm in 1995.
The temperature dropped below 0 on 9 nights, with our coldest night being -3 degrees. Our coldest daytime high was 3.7 degrees on the 7th, and our warmest daytime high was 17.2 degrees on the 26th, giving us a daytime averagehigh,for themonth,of 10.2 degrees. Our all year overallaveragefor Juneis11.2 degrees.
BIRCHFIELD ENERGY AND BIRCHFIELD ENERGY AND ENERGY AND ENERGY AND RESOURCES RESOURCES RESOURCES RESOURCES Darfield Darfield Darfield Darfield RainfallforJune-12dayswith rain.30milonthe6th.115mil for month. 656 mil year to date.
If you are a budding If you are a budding If you If you meteorologist and like to meteorologist and like to meteorologist and to meteorologist and to collect, measure and analyse collect, measure and analyse measure and measure and the amount of rainfall in amount of rainfall in your area, please email area, please email info@malvernnews.co.nz your findings(upto100words)for the previous month and previous month and include your area, your name include area, name and contact number by the contact number by firstMondayofthemonth.
SAVE THE DATE SAVE THE DATE THE DATE THE DATE –– DARFIELD GARDEN TOUR GARDEN GARDENTOUR TOUR TOUR
A delightful garden tour in the Malvern district is planned for Sunday, November 2 with proceeds going directly to support Darfield District Nurses. Beautiful gardens, unique local stalls, sausage sizzle and a traditional Devonshireteaiswhatyoucan expect on the day. Tickets are available at Bayleys Darfield, Bayleys Rolleston, Greendale Primary School, Dalethorpe HouseandTwineAntiques.
DO WE HAVE ENOUGH TR DO WE HAVE ENOUGH TR DO WE DO WE TREES EES EES EES IN OUR TOWNSHIPS? IN OUR TOWNSHIPS?
According to a report by Professor Justin Morgenroth and Dr Ning Ye of the University of Canterbury’s School of Forestry, Canterbury Plainshassomeofthesparsest tree canopy coverage in New Zealand. Christchurch was rated 57th and Rolleston was rated at just 7.9% coverage placing it 77th out of 78 cities andtowns.
According to researchers, tree canopies capture and store atmospheric carbon dioxide and reduce land and air temperatures. Canopies provide positive value when it comes to air pollution, water quality, land value, stormwater run-o , habitats for wildlife, andmentalhealth.
STUDENT LEADERSHIP STUDENT STUDENTLEADERSHIP LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT
OPPORTUNITY OPPORTUNITY
Funded by the Malvern Youth Trust, applications are open to Year 11 and 12 students until
Friday, August 15 for the Boyle River Leadership Course held onDecember15-19,2025. The awards include course cost, transportation, and spending money. To apply, write 200-250 words on why youwanttowinandhowyou'll use the skills, agree to the rules on boyle.org.nz. and submit your application to the school o ce by Friday, August 16at3pm.
Interviews will be held in September, with successful applicants notified and announced at Senior Prizegiving on December 4, 2025.ContactMs.Turnerinthe school o ce for more information.
BUYING A HOME? YOU BUYING A HOME?
COULD BE ON TV. COULD BE ON TV. COULD BE ON TV. COULD BE ON TV.
Abode Entertainment is filming a house hunting show in your area – and they’re looking for local buyers to take part! Are you actively looking to buy a home nearby? If so, the company would love to follow your journey as you explore properties and search for the perfect place to call home. It’s a relaxed, feel-good TV show that highlights real people and real stories – no acting required, just you being you. Filming will take place in the area soon, and it’s a great opportunity to see a range of homes and be part of somethingspecial. Ifyouorsomeoneyou know is house hunting and might be interested, email harald@abodeentertainment. com.au.
Café Hope Open 10am
SUNDAY 13 July
St Ambrose Church, Sheffield
ADVERTISING DEADLINE: 10am, Tuesday
Thursday 17 July, 10am - 12noon
At Darfield Baptist Church
Come and join a friendly bunch of locals who gather for a chat while learning a simple craft each fortnight, or bring your own project.
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 COACHING
GROW GROWGROW GROW your business with NZ Life Coaching NZ. Helping with Business Improvement and Career Development. We'rehereto guideyou,help your business grow & making sure you enjoy every step of the journey. Contact Kieron McGhie 021 276 8311, www.newlifecoachingnz.com or send an email to newlifecoachingnz@gmail.com
CARPET
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/Window Cleaning. Thorough job, good price, quick drying. Highly recommended. Ph/text Robert anytimeon 0272999599.
CATS on Courtenay Boutique Boarding Cattery!
• Purpose built, nestled in a tranquil, rural setting.
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.
CONFIDENTIAL CONFIDENTIAL CONFIDENTIAL, professional counselling/therapy. Offering valuable support as you navigate life's challenges. Freeintroductory 1/2hr consultation. Lisa Mills 0278140785. COUNSELLING
Malvern
Anglican Parish
SUN 13 JULY, 9.30am Trinity Church, Darfield malvernparish.wixsite.com/ malvern-parish
&
NEW FRIENDS
PLANTS FOR SALE MORTGAGE ADVISOR ARE ARE AREyouinneedofarefinance, firsthomeloan,buyinganew home,investmentpropertyor a property development? I deal with all the lenders, and Icangetyouthebestdealto suityou.I have30+yearsof lending experience, and I am local. I can come to you. Alan Lover Loan Market 027 2516644. I bring the bankstoyou. CELEBRANT
FARM FARM FARMEquipment. Farmfencing wire H/T, 2.5mm x 5 625m rolls. Ratchet strainers x 12. 3 chain gate latches. 3 gate gudgeons, 1 x 300mm, 2 x 80mm. Beattie E/F insulations, with bolts x 44. All new. Tordon brush killer x 3 litres. 2 litres marker dye. Phone0221556258. REIKI REIKI Healing can support
BROWNIE BROWNIE BROWNIEkingsizedmattressin good condition. No stains. Replacedwithdifferentgrade. Pleasephone 0212273998.
LEASE LAND WANTED
LEASE LEASE land wanted. Selwyn area suitable for cattle grazing. All sizes consider. Please phone Reg 027 567 0720.
LADIES LADIES- New resident, active, friendly widower, young senior. Call/text 027 471 0369.
Plants, locally sourced. Lots of varieties. Call and see if we have what you need. Phone Annie0273702067.
in Darfield Hostel. Internet, Sky TV. $190pw. Please phone 0274791431.
GENERAL GENERAL GENERAL garden maintenance in Darfield area. Domestic hedge trimming, pruning, edging, lawns and water blasting. Please phone Kane 0274676613.
well-being, mental health, and emotional
Contact Lisa Mills 027 814 0785 or visit www.goldentouch.co.nz/reiki
She"ield School Teacher Position
Full Time Fixed Term Position
Start date: Term 3 and 4 2025
We are a beautiful country school, o&ering a collaborative work environment with a fantastic team, an amazingly supportive community, and awesome kids!
We seek a NZ registered teacher with strong interpersonal skills, a sense of humour, and a growth mindset. The successful applicant must relate well to our students, parents, community and our PEAK values. The position will commence in Term 3, 2025or by negotiation.
Please contact us for more information: 03 3183713 principal@she"ieldprimary.school.nz
LOCAL LOCAL handyman - Part time. Any work considered, including farm work. Please phoneKerry0276222161.
TENANCY
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.
Weekly classes Glentunnel Community Centre. Tues 6.307.45pm, Thurs 9.30-10.45am. Friendly,supportivecommunity Registration essential, first class free. Please contact Lisa Mills 027 814 0785, www.goldentouch.co.nz/yoga
AMMUNITION 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.
KITCHENS KITCHENS - new or renovate existing with new doors and bench tops, wardrobes, laundries, vanities made to size. Built-in bookcases and wall units,melamineortimber desks, buffets, tables or any furniture. Great prices and advice. Pleasephone Lex 027 4393926or3490150.
Darfield based with over 43 years of local knowledge and experience
Builder’s who get the job done right!
Contact:
E: damian@metricbuild.nz
M: 027 933 5819
W: metricbuild.nz
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A woman at a diet club was lamenting the fact that she had put on weight.
“I made my family’s favourite cake over the weekend,” she told the group, “and they ate half of it at dinner. The next day, I kept staring at the other half until I finally weakened and cut myself a thin slice. Well, I’m ashamed to say that once I got the taste there was no stopping me. One slice led to another and soon the whole cake was gone. I was totally dismayed by my lack of willpower, and I knew that my husband would be bitterly disappointed in me.”
“What did he say when he found out?” asked the group leader gently.
“Oh, he never found out,” said the woman. “I made another cake and ate half!”
