Issue 1,252
Local News for Local Communities
Friday 25th September 2026
Phone: 03 318 7450 | Email: info@malvernnews.co.nz | Web: www.malvernnews.co.nz Got something Newsworthy? Let us know too!
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Community Potluck Dinner
Pull-Out Harvesting, Baling & contracting Guide Page 9 - 24
CRIDGE JOINS THE CENTURIONS Geoff Cridge has become just the 15th player in Hawke's Bay history to reach 100 appearances for the Magpies, a milestone he marked in style with a try. The veteran lock and loose forward reached the mark in the 2026 NPC season, Round 7 clash against North Harbour at McLean Park in Napier on Sunday, 13 September, starting at lock as Magpie #1605 and crossing off a beautiful setup from All Blacks halfback Folau Fakatava. The occasion was bittersweet, however, as the previously unbeaten Magpies fell 31–24 to a fighting North Harbour side. Geoff says, in the moment he nailed his 100th milestone try, he wasn’t too “fussed” about it, until all his teammates surrounded him. “That was probably the most special part, seeing how stoked they all were that it happened.” Geoff's journey to the milestone began more than a decade ago. A Canterbury lad who attended Christchurch Boys' High School, he debuted for Hawke's Bay in 2014 and has since been a foundational pillar of the province. He was integral to the Mitre 10 Cup Championship-winning squads of 2015 and 2020, as well as the historic Ranfurly Shield tenures of 2020 and 2021. Between NPC campaigns, the globetrotting lock turned out for the Hurricanes and Waratahs in Super Rugby, Bayonne in the French Top 14, and the Green Rockets Tokatsu in Japan, before returning to the Magpies full-time ahead of the 2023 season. Family played a major role in his decision to commit his loyalty firmly to Hawke's Bay rugby. Continued on page 28….
Spring Forward Hororata Mechanical Swap Meet Page 25
Geoff Cridge with fiancée Georgia and their daughter, Ella.
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DON'T MISS THIS ANNUAL EVENT The Parish Spring Fair held at Trinity Church in Darfield is back! And it’s bigger and better than ever before. Come along to the Fair on Saturday, September 26 from 9am to 12pm. This longstanding and popular spring event will host 23 outdoor stalls, as well as 15 more stalls inside the church. What’s more, the Parish Op Shop will also be open! New stalls this year include face painting, aromatherapy gifts, black garlic paste and Himalayan dog chews, as well as Nat’s Nursery’s plants, lavender products, china and glass creations, wooden gifts and toys, puzzles and rugs. Inside the church, we have Brazilian coffee beans from Nations Coffee, paper-crafted gifts as well as hand-painted cards, candles, children’s clothes, knitting and
household linens. The popular Parish bake table is also back, as well as the plant stall, raffle and books. Something to eat? The Comet Coffee cart, Fruity Freeze real fruit ice cream, delicious American Delights Donuts and the Parish sausage sizzle will look after you.
Fundraising from the sale helps to support local Anglican parish services across Malvern, including Sunday worship, weddings and funerals, as well as home visiting and the maintenance of church buildings in Courtenay, Kirwee, Darfield, Sheffield and Springfield.
MEKONG MOMENTS:
A JOURNEY BEYOND THE EXPECTED By Shannell Stanbridge. I went to Cambodia and Vietnam expecting incredible sights. I came home with stories I’ll never forget. My recent two-week journey with APT aboard the Mekong Serenity, travelling from Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City, was so much more than a holiday. It was a journey through ancient history, vibrant cultures, extraordinary food – and some very confronting chapters of the past. Of course, there were the bucket-list moments: standing
beneath the magnificent towers of Angkor Wat, exploring the atmospheric “Lost Temple” of Beng Mealea and cruising along the mighty Mekong. But it was the moments in between that really captured me. Meeting families in rural villages. Watching silk and rattan being woven by hand. Waving to children as we travelled through Cambodia and Vietnam. Visiting a floating village and seeing how communities have built their lives around the water. Shopping in a local market before learning to cook Vietnamese dishes. And then came the moments that stopped me in my tracks. Visiting the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum was deeply confronting. I was incredibly humbled to meet Chum Mey, one of only seven known survivors of the prison, and hear part of his story. Even more poignant was learning that another fellow survivor had passed away just two days
earlier. It reminded me that travel isn’t always about beautiful photographs. Sometimes it is about listening, learning and remembering. By the time I celebrated Vietnam’s Independence Day in Ho Chi Minh City and finished with an exhilarating vintage Vespa night tour, I knew this trip would stay with me. Because the best journeys aren’t simply measured by the places we visit, they’re measured by the people we meet, the stories we hear and the moments that change the way we see the world. That’s what lies ‘beyond the boarding pass’.
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CELEBRATING THE COMMUNITY SPIRIT OF TĀWERA MALVERN By SDC Councillor John Verry, Tāwera Malvern Ward. A great pleasure of representing Tāwera Malvern is seeing the extraordinary community spirit that makes our rural district such a wonderful place to live. This past weekend provided three outstanding examples of people coming together to celebrate their communities, recognise volunteer service and share their talents. On Saturday, I had the privilege of joining around 85 residents and visitors to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Glenroy Community Hall. The celebrations brought people together for a potluck lunch, a
fascinating look back at the hall's history, and an afternoon of entertainment, followed by an evening dance. It was a fitting tribute to a much-loved rural hall that has served generations of local families and will continue to serve future generations. I had to leave before the dancing began to attend the Darfield Volunteer Fire Brigade Awards and Gold Star Night. This was an opportunity to recognise the remarkable commitment of our volunteer firefighters, whose service contributes so much to the safety of our communities. Equally deserving of recognition are their families, whose support makes that
POTLUCK DINNER BRINGS COMMUNITY TOGETHER AGAIN
Yet another fun-filled community event organised by Darfield Residents Association, when some 48 people gathered at Darfield Recreation Centre to enjoy the community potluck dinner. Organiser Tony Gan says the evening featured a Kapa Haka performance and entertainment from Canterbury Malaysian Society. “Jay Menes, an award-winning Filipino international storyteller and actor, also amused the audience with his authentic Filipino folktales.”
service possible. On Sunday, the celebrations continued with the 39th anniversary of the Malvern School of Music Inc. More than 200 people enjoyed a wonderful variety of musical performances showcasing the talent of musicians from Darfield to Glenroy and surrounding communities. The occasion highlighted the important role the school plays in fostering musical talent and bringing people together through music. These three events may have been very different, but they shared something special: people generously giving their time, skills and energy for the benefit of others. Whether through our community halls, emergency services or local arts, volunteers remain at the heart of Tāwera Malvern. To everyone who contributes to making our district such a vibrant, caring and connected place to live ... thank you.
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Friday 25th September 2026
NORTH CANTERBURY WEARABLE ARTS SHOW WOWS AGAIN Another outstanding North second in the Years 9–13 shortly. Canterbury Wearable Arts Open category with Slope in show, hosted by Oxford Area Style. School, was held in Rangiora The annual event aims to on Saturday, September 12. inspire creativity, celebrate With 65 entries from across talent and bring the Canterbury, as well as Kaikōura community together through a and Timaru, there was no fun and supportive wearable shortage of colour, variety and arts stage show. awe-inspiring costumes to The show continues to grow impress the audience of and improve each year. With around 400 people. Event Goals helping to A new category, Bewildering enhance the experience for Bras, showcased some participants and audience Above: James Tomes, particularly imaginative members, it is an event worth 1st in Years 1-6. creations. keeping on the calendar. Below: Samantha Tomes, 2nd Local talent was well As well as celebrating the in Years 7-8 Post Apocalyptic. represented. James Tomes, of community’s creativity, the Greendale Primary School, won event raises funds for the the Years 1–6 category with Oxford Area School PTA and Singing in the Rain. supports the school. Darfield High School student Samantha Tomes achieved For more information about second place in the Years 7–8 the competition and show, Post-Apocalyptic category with visit www.ncwa.nz. Four in Hand. Scarlett Sanders Categories and the show and Zara Lowe, also from date for 2027 will be Darfield High School, placed announced on the website
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GROWTH SHOULD PAY FOR GROWTH Malvern communities value what they have – their character, space, rural connections and strong sense of community. As Selwyn continues to face growth pressures, we need to be careful about how and where that growth occurs, what it means for existing communities, and whether the infrastructure is there to support it. Last week, I met with Housing Minister Chris Bishop and Waimakariri Mayor Dan Gordon to discuss large scale housing developments progressing through fast track. We had previously asked whether large -scale, Fast-track housing applications could be paused while the concerns were worked through. The Minister advised that the process would continue, so we discussed the pipeline of applications, cumulative impacts, infrastructure capacity and who pays for the infrastructure required. There has been some positive movement. The Government has made changes that give councils greater flexibility to recover growth related infrastructure costs from Fasttrack developments that weren't anticipated when existing development contribution policies were
prepared. For Malvern, this is already very real. We have a Fast-track housing proposal progressing in the ward which, if approved as proposed, would significantly increase in the number and density of homes previously anticipated for that area. My role as Mayor is not to prejudge individual applications, but to make sure Selwyn’s interests are clearly represented through the process. We need to have our ducks in a row, understanding the infrastructure impacts and costs, and putting good evidence in front of the panels considering these applications. At Selwyn, we are also reviewing our own development contributions through the next Long-Term Plan to ensure they properly reflect the infrastructure required to support growth. Changing those charges isn’t as simple as Council deciding to put them up. They need to
reflect the infrastructure required, its cost, how much is attributable to growth and how those costs should be allocated. We also need to work through the statutory policy and consultation process required under the Local Government Act. In working through the Government’s Fast-track changes, we’ve identified a gap. Selwyn Water Limited now has its own development contributions policy, but the proposed change doesn’t currently give water organisations the same ability to respond to Fast-track approvals. We’ve raised this with the Minister and asked for it to be addressed. I was also pleased to see that under the proposed new development levy system, Crown agencies and Crown entities will be required to contribute when their developments create additional demand on local infrastructure.
LOCAL MATTERS COMES TO MALVERN Join your Councillors, the Malvern Community Board and Mayor Lydia Gliddon on October 22 at the Glentunnel Community Centre for an informal conversation about what's happening in your community and across the district. Find out more at selwyn.govt.nz/localmatters.
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HELPING SMALL BUSINESSES WORK SMARTER For Darfield-based bookkeeper Andi Smith, helping small business owners is about making the behind-the-scenes work simpler. With more than 20 years’ experience in accounts and business administration, including a decade in property management, Andi understands how quickly financial paperwork and everyday administration can mount up for people busy running their own businesses. Through Andi’s Business Support, she provides bookkeeping and business administration assistance for sole traders and small businesses throughout New Zealand. “I provide practical, reliable support behind the scenes,” Andi says, helping those without the time, confidence or inclination to stay on top of their paperwork. Some of her services include the day-to-day bookkeeping, bank reconciliations, GST preparation, accounts payable and receivable, invoicing, payroll, reporting and business processes. Andi also offers Xero setup, troubleshooting,
tidy-ups and ongoing support, and can work with other systems, including MYOB. But her work is not purely bookkeeping. She also helps with general business administration, documents, processes and getting systems organised. Andi is keen to reassure business owners they do not need to have everything tidy before getting in touch. “I’m very happy to help businesses where the books have fallen behind or become a bit messy, and there’s absolutely no judgement,” she says. She is not there to replace a client’s accountant, but is happy to work alongside them, looking after the day-to-day bookkeeping and keeping things organised throughout the year. Another benefit for small businesses is being able to outsource just the amount of support they need, rather than employing someone or having enough work to justify a permanent admin or accounts person. A qualified member of the New Zealand Qualified Bookkeepers Association and a Xero Partner,
Andi works remotely with businesses nationwide from her Darfield base. Clients deal directly with her, allowing her to understand how each business operates and tailor support accordingly. The service is flexible, whether businesses need occasional assistance with a one-off project or regular weekly or monthly help. This gives owners more time to focus on running their business. For more information, visit andibizsupport.co.nz or contact Andi on 022 090 9799.
CRAZY FRENCH INVERSION By Greg McGeorge – Shaw and Partners Financial Adviser Here’s a quick update on something unusual that happened in the French bond market a couple of weeks ago. Bond traders are making an unusual judgment about risk in French financial markets, based on pricing, they believe covered bonds (debt issued by banks that is secured by mortgages) are safer than French government debt. Covered bond interest rates are now less than 10-year French government debt, the most extreme inversion ever. The divergence upends one of the basic assumptions of fixed income, that sovereign debt should be the safest borrowing
benchmark in its home market. Instead, mounting concern over France’s budget deficit, rising debt-servicing costs and political uncertainty ahead of April’s presidential election is forcing investors to demand more to lend to the state than against pools of household mortgages. It’s an extreme version of a pattern playing out across developed markets. In the US, the 10-year government interest rate just hit 5% p.a., whereas Microsoft and Johnson & Johnson 10year debt is at 5.1 – 5.3%, only marginally higher. Here in NZ, 10-year government debt pays just under 5% p.a. but it was difficult to find any corporates with 10-year debt on issue, but
if I look at a high-grade corporate like Westpac, they have a bond maturing August 2031 that is paying 4.7% p.a., that’s vs a government bond maturing May-2031 that is paying 4.55%, 0.15% p.a. extra reward to take on Westpac risk vs the NZ government! For investors, if your risk profile is for high grade corporate bonds then you should be asking your adviser if you really need corporate credit risk when government debt (which won’t default) is already paying 5%. Greg has over 35 years’ years’ experience in financial markets, both in New Zealand and London, working with individuals and families on long term wealth a n d r e t ir e m e n t p la n n in g.
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Friday 25th September 2026
LOCAL BUSINESS CELEBRATES FIRM OF THE YEAR WIN Local business Beyond Your Numbers, founded by Leah Keown, has been recognised with the title of Small Advisory Firm of the Year, after being named a finalist in two award categories. Beyond Your Numbers was a finalist for both The Three Freedoms Award and Small Advisory Firm of the Year, going on to take home the Small Advisory Firm award. For Leah, the recognition represents far more than a trophy. “This award reflects all the work that happens behind the scenes, the risks, the decisions, the challenges, and the determination to keep showing up and doing the best we can for our clients,” she says. “It was a very proud moment and a chance to stop and appreciate just how far the business has come.” Beyond Your Numbers works alongside business owners to help them better understand their numbers, gain clarity and make confident decisions about the future of their businesses. “Numbers should tell you a story,” Leah says. “They should
help you understand where we’re willing to do things your business is today, where before we feel completely it’s heading and what decisions ready.” Leah says winning Small you need to make next.” The awards also saw Leah step Advisory Firm of the Year is outside her comfort zone by particularly special as a locally joining a panel of business built business. owners to openly discuss the “I’m incredibly proud of what realities, challenges and we’ve built, grateful to our lessons of running a business. clients and everyone who has “Speaking on a panel was supported us, and excited definitely outside my comfort about what comes next.” zone, but it reminded me that For contact details see growth often happens when advertisement alongside.
Beyond Your Numbers Founder, Leah Keown.
Some of the Best Apps for Seniors Smartphones can do much more than make calls and take photos. With the right apps, they can help you get around, save money, manage everyday tasks and keep entertained. Here are a few worth trying. SuperGold App If you have a SuperGold Card, the app makes it easy to find discounts and special o ers while you’re out and about. You can search for participating businesses and discover deals nearby, whether you’re at home or travelling around New Zealand. Google Maps Great for directions, but also handy for finding nearby cafés, shops and attractions. You can even save places you want to visit later. Your banking app Using your bank’s o icial app is generally the safest and easiest way to manage your accounts from your phone. Just make sure you download it from the o icial App Store or Google Play Store. Libby Got a library card? Libby gives you access to thousands of free eBooks, audiobooks and magazines through participating public libraries. Google Lens Point your camera at something and Google Lens can identify it, translate text or help you find more information. It’s particularly useful when travelling or reading unfamiliar labels. There are thousands of useful apps out there, but you don’t need them all. Start with the ones that genuinely make your day easier. Need help setting them up?
Call the Geeks on 0800 424 335.
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BALING, HARVESTING & CONTRACTING CONTACTS: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Agricultural Contracting, D Bell 027 427 1582 Atlas Agriculture 027 419 1797 Ballagh Contracting 027 279 1344 Benbow Contracting LTD 027 672 4118 Bray Street Engineering 027 255 5318 Bruce Russell Contracting 027 436 1727 Canterbury Plains Contracting LTD 03 394 3533 Central Harvest 027 484 8564 Chamberlain Agriculture LTD 027 278 1078 Cridge Seeds Ltd 021 024 61116 Dalley Contracting 022 451 7207 Darfield Tyres 03 318 8201 EAL AgriServices Group 027 279 6457 East Coast Power Sports 03 307 4846 Ella-lee Contracting 027 469 7703 Forrester Contracting 027 405 8534 GRAB Earthworks Solutions LTD 027 891 0999 Hamish Gough Windrowning 021 171 5848 Hawkins River Contracting 021 524 937 Hawksford Ag 027 447 0312 Independent Feed Testing 027 464 4295 James Scollay 027 386 7844 Knight Contracting 027 492 1934 MA Bruce Contracting LTD 027 432 6658 McCarthy Contracting 027 484 8564 MCL Contracting 03 347 8555 Mobile Seed Cleaning 027 653 7969 Nathan Cook Builders 03 281 8331 Robsons Liquid Waste Management 0800 372 003 RHL LTD 027 535 5935 Rural Fields 027 659 6596 Sheat Contracting Ltd 027 431 8709 South Pacific Seeds 03 302 8115 Springfield Quarry 027 535 5935 Stones Mechanical Services 027 576 2167 Woudenberg Contracting 027 771 6653
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Phone: 03 318 8600 Gary: 027 255 5318 6 Bray St, Darfield www.braystreet.co.nz
See us now for all your maintenance! Certified Welders Calf Feeders
Feed Out Wagons Silage Grabs Cultivation Equipment HDPE Pipe Welding
Specalist Repairs & Maintenance of all Agricultural Equipment
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Friday 25th September 2026
BARGAINS DRAW BIG CROWDS
Henry McElrea and Chris Thwaites inspect the growing number of vintage, classic and interesting vehicles on display.
A sunny spring day brought nearly 2,000 people from around New Zealand to the Hororātā Domain for the annual Hororātā Mechanical Swap Meet on Saturday, September 19. Around 130 sites filled the Domain, selling car and motorbike parts, tools, machinery, old gear and plenty of things you don’t see every day. Hororātā Community Trust Executive Officer Cindy Driscoll says the Swap Meet was a great grassroots community event, with more people now making a weekend of it. “We had people arriving on Friday to set up and camp for the night, and we are seeing more of that each year. It creates a great atmosphere before the gates even open on Saturday and it’s good for our local businesses too.” The event is also an important fundraiser, supporting the Hororātā Historical Society, South Malvern Community Trust, Glentunnel School, Hororātā School and Hororātā Community Trust. “The Swap Meet brings people together. There’s lots of catching up, people sharing knowledge and helping each other find that elusive part. It’s a pretty special community.” “A big thanks to all our volunteers. There’s a fair bit of work that goes into the Swap Meet and we’re lucky to have a great bunch of people who turn up and get stuck in.”
Volunteers John Ballagh, Ainsley Walter, Graeme Reynolds and Tish Ballagh.
DARFIELD GARDEN CLUB REPORT The Darfield Garden Club held its annual Spring Flower Show at the Recreation Centre on September 15. Members contributed to all classes and created a wonderful display of flowers and vegetables. The daffodil section was a blaze of colour with so many different varieties. It was truly a very successful show and thanks to the dedicated committee all coming together to ensure everything went well on the day. We were delighted to have Bronwyn Hooper Adams from Seeds for Change, a local creative and community focussed floral art and lifestyle business, as our judge. Bronwyn congratulated members and gave tips on getting the best out of showing. Winning Results: Premier Bloom - Nicola Peacock (a beautiful purple anemone), Premier daffodil - Elizabeth Forrest, Most points for cut flowers - Nicola Peacock, Decorative Novice - Nicola Peacock and Lucky Number - Lee Brunton. Our next meeting is a garden visit at Windwhistle meeting at Tussock Square 1am on October 20th. For mor information, email darfieldgardenclub@gmail.com. Lee Stokes.
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Friday 25th September 2026
MALVERN SCHOOL OF MUSIC 39TH ANNUAL CONCERT
The Malvern School of Music violinists' group came together for the annual concert in Darfield.
On Sunday, September 20, the Darfield Recreation Centre was abuzz with excited musicians, from young primary-aged performers through to mature adults, all showcasing their musical skills. The appreciative audience enjoyed an eclectic concert featuring violin, cello, piano, ukulele, guitar, bass, drums and recorder. The programme featured both solo and group performances, with pieces ranging from classical favourites such as Beethoven’s “Fifth Symphony” and Holst’s “Jupiter” to pop
classic ABBA’s “The Winner Takes It All”, as well as rock favourites including The Surfaris’ “Wipe Out” and Eric Clapton’s “Wonderful Tonight”. The concert concluded with the orchestral piece “Brother John”, arranged by Helen Langen and capably conducted by MC Melissa Jebson (QSM). Concert organisers extended their thanks to the tutors, students and Malvern School of Music Committee for their hard work and support in making the event a success..
SHINY NEW LOCOMOTIVES By Simon Williams Malvern News readers are always on to it, so will have noticed some changes on the railway line that runs through our region, in the form of brand-new engines hauling some trains. Forty-six new 4000 horsepower DM class locomotives are arriving in batches from the Stadler factory in Spain, to replace the fifty-year-old DX engines, the noisier ones, which are heading away in batches to start a new life in South Africa. The new DMs are quieter, much more fuel efficient, have all the latest technology, and are some of the most modern in the world. A driver said to us that driving the new beasts is like transitioning from a 1960s car to one made today. The DMs will be seen more regularly as more arrive, but the old DX’s, nicknamed
“Dixies”, will be around for a while yet. Many rail enthusiasts can be seen, possibly dewy eyed, as they contemplate the end of the era of “The Mighty DX”. Simon Williams has been a journalist for almost sixty years, mainly in radio and television, and in education. He started in the NZBC in 1968, produced regional programmes such as The Mainland Touch, and made documentaries. Simon then built a television studio at St Andrew's College, teaching performing arts, media and running a national TV and Film course called Beyond the Camera for sixteen years. Simon loves all vehicles, cars, trucks, buses, planes and trains. He lives in Springfield (near the railway station) with Lynn, and M ar igol d t he c at .
PIONEERING THE PUBLIC ICE RINK (194O–1950) By Jeanette Lyttle. PART THREETHREE- Checking the ice, busloads from town, and pie mixmix-ups in the canteen. In the early days, getting the ice report out to eager skaters was quite an operation. By the 1960s, Bert Lyttle would drive up on a Friday night to inspect the ice by car headlights. Using a brace and bit, he bored a hole through the surface, inserting a notched wire with a bent end to hook underneath and measure the thickness in inches. Taking snow cover and surface conditions into account, the report was phoned through to Seekers Answering Service in Christchurch for the public to check before heading inland. At the weekend, visitors caught Midland buses from Christchurch, hiring skates from Sparrows, a small family business. On one record day, more than 30 buses arrived at the lake. This was the era when I began skating at Lake Ida, having met Bert’s son, David, and sharing his passion for long-track speed skating. As a club member, I spent every winter weekend helping and skating whenever time allowed. David and I were both long track speed skaters. There are only two places in NZ that were big enough to lay out a standard international track (400 meters with two lanes) – Lake Ida and Manorburn Dam. Because of the size, it wasn't practical to have both public and speed skaters at the same time so little Lake Ida was used. Many years ago, a shingle slide cut off a piece of the main lake, to the far end, and that became known as Little Lake Ida. Additional accommodation appeared at the Harper Road end, including the Jamieson and McLaughlan huts, built by local firms for staff summer use and lent to skaters during winter. Spontaneous ice hockey matches broke out,
while curlers regularly gathered on weekdays. The lake canteen was a simple affair with an open front serving straight over the counter. After one hectic Saturday, we ran completely out of hot pies. My future mother-in-law, Joan Lyttle, who managed the canteen, quickly ordered a fresh batch from Murphys Pies in Woolston to come up on the Sunday morning Midland bus. They duly arrived and were heated for the crowds. We served each pie on a brown paper bag, asking customers if they wanted tomato sauce. Because sauce bottles had a habit of wandering off, we kept
the bottle firmly behind the counter and dolloped a couple of generous blobs on top ourselves. Later that afternoon, a customer returned with a curious smile and asked, “Could I please have another of those delicious apricot pies but without the tomato sauce, thanks?” It turned out Murphys had sent a surprise mix of apple, apricot, and meat pies to fill our emergency order. Alongside hot drinks and soft drinks, chocolate treats like Pinkie bars were firm favourites. Next week: Part 4 – Tending the –10°C 10 °C copper fire and the final seasons at Lake Ida.
Little Lake Ida after a day of long track speed racing.
David Lyttle (son of Bert) was interviewed by Molly McNab the 3ZB Broadcaster when he was six years old.
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THE TEMPESTUOUS A Shrew’ Shrew’d New Comedy by Will Shakespeare and Penny Ashton. Award winning comedian Penny Ashton is back, and this time is skewering the Bard himself on October 16, 2026, at 7.30pm in the Hororata Community Hall. The brains behind Promise & Promiscuity, Olive Copperbottom and Austen Found, Ashton is heading out on her sixth Arts on Tour odyssey in October, sparking 13 characters into life in this Elizabethan tale of magic, meddling and puffed bull’s puzzles. Sicily’s beloved King Enzo is dead. Now Princess Rosa, a stroppy spinster, must navigate the tempestuous waters of belching stepfathers, lusty suitors, popping cod pieces and menopausal witches, to face her destiny. Reviews highly commend the show: “Incredibly clever, the script is just so smart.” Radio NZ; “Masterful ‘shrewd comedy’ a tempestuous triumph…a phenomenal play.” The Post; “Surely at some point we get to call Penny Ashton a national treasure?” Flat City Field Notes; and “Phenomenal energy, vivacity, versatility, inventiveness and humour." Theatreview. Penny Ashton has been touring the world for over 20 years, performing over 1000 solo shows. She has sold out from Edinburgh to Edmonton to Mosgiel and has represented New Zealand in Theatresports and performed Slam Poetry at The Glastonbury Festival. Her award-winning solo musicals Promise and Promiscuity, Olive Copperbottom and The Tempestuous has gathered sparkling reviews and happy fans wherever it’s been performed. In 2023, the Court Theatre presented Ashton’s adaptation of Sense and Sensibility to great acclaim, and she went on to direct it in Wellington in 2024, attracting over 5500 people. Ashton is also an improviser, performance poet, voice over artist, social commentator (including on RNZ’s The Panel), Wedding Celebrant, menopause podcaster with Showy Ovaries, and all-round jazz hand enthusiast.
To book your tickets to The Tempestuous, visit events.humanitix.com/theevents.humanitix.com/the-tempestuoustempestuous-hororata.
DON'T FORGET TO SIGN UP FOR NZ SHAKEOUT! Wednesday, October 21 at 1:30pm is ShakeOut day, where hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders will practice their drop, cover, hold, and their tsunami hīkoi if they're in a tsunami zone. It's free to sign up, and you'll be in the draw to win prizes if you do, whether you run your drill with us on October 21, or at a time that's more convenient for you. To sign up, visit getready.govt.nz/involved/ shakeout/sign-up. SUPERGOLD TRAVEL HOURS TO CHANGE SuperGold cardholders in Greater Christchurch will lose free weekday travel between 3pm and 6.30pm later this year, as local hours are brought into line with the national scheme. The change affects Metro services in Selwyn, Waimakariri, and Christchurch, and will coincide with the
rollout of the Motu Move national ticketing system. Free travel will remain between 9am and 3pm, after 6.30pm, and all day on weekends and public holidays. Environment Canterbury says the start date is yet to be confirmed, with passengers to receive advance notice. GOT SOME AWESOME FARM FARM PHOTOS? This is your chance to show them off! Enter your best shots into one of our categories: Farm Animals – Snap your favourite farm buddies; Working on the Farm – capture those hardworking moments; and IHC Calf – show off those adorable calves with the IHC Allflex pink ear tag. There are great prizes to be won, and entries close Friday, 30 October 2026, at 4pm. The winners will be chosen by public vote right here on Facebook from November 13 – 27. Submit your entry today at ihc.org.nz/csphoto (T&Cs apply)
YOUNG ARTIST WINS TOWN ART COMPETITION
Penny Ashton.
REPAIR CAFÉ RETURNS TO ROLLESTON Don't Toss It - Fix It! Got a toaster that's lost its spark, a bike gathering dust, or a favourite t-shirt coming apart at the seams? Don't throw it out - bring it along to the Repair Café at Rolleston Community Centre on October 10 from 10am to 1pm. Note all items must be collected by 2pm. Skilled volunteers will be on hand to help troubleshoot and fix household appliances, computers, clothing and textiles, bikes, general items, and garden machinery like lawnmowers and line trimmers. Registering beforehand with a description of your item helps volunteers prepare the right tools, but drop-ins are welcome too. Register at events.humanitix.com/repairevents.humanitix.com/repaircafecafe-octoct-26. For any questions, contact Dave at Lincoln Envirotown Trust 03 423 0445 p r o j ec t ma n ag er let @ g ma il. c o m
In August, Darfield Residents Association invited entries for an art competition to define a vision for Darfield. Congratulations go to Elix Reyes, a Year-9 student at Darfield High School. Elix was awarded the prize of a $50 gift voucher for her entry; her sketch shows the old establishments alongside modern new builds. The words she uses to describe Darfield are "peaceful, growing and community".
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Friday 25th September 2026
CRIDGE JOINS THE CENTURIONS ...continued from front page. Reflecting on the milestone, Geoff noted how much it meant to reach 100 games with his fiancée, Georgia and daughter, Ella, friends and family by his side. During a standard week during the NPC season Geoff and his teammates have gym and training most days except Wednesday – their midweek day off. On Tuesday and Thursdays, the team preps for the next game, while Friday, Geoff says, is a “dress rehearsal for the game to go over our moves plus some brief training.” After this busy rugby season,
Geoff thinks it may be the end of his professional career. He will be back to focussing on his family and business and says he will keep playing for Darfield. Playing for the Darfield club is still important to Geoff. He shares a bit of his rugby knowledge here and there but says the team has given him more – playing with mates he has had throughout his life and who helped him through a period in his professional career. “They helped me when I had a bad run of injuries and luck and lost a bit of the love for the game. The fellas in that
team helped me find enjoyment in rugby again and gave me a much-needed change in perspective.” Off the field, Geoff remains deeply connected to his roots. A proud Darfield local, he grew up working as an apprentice builder while rising through Canterbury age-grade rugby. Today he balances rugby with the building and construction trade, running KCR Construction, alongside partner Jared Kars, a company specialising in new builds, renovations, and projects around the Canterbury/Selwyn district.
DUATHLON Congratulations to the Darfield High School students that competed in the Canterbury Secondary Duathlon on Monday, September 14 in horrendous weather conditions at Ruapuna Raceway. Results: Under 16 Girls – Lulu Maley 4th, Marlie McCaughan 10th. Under 16 Boys – Jacob Morris 5th GIVE ROWING A GO Local students curious about taking up rowing will have the chance to test the waters at the Novice & New to Selwyn Rowing Camp. Running from Tuesday, September 29 to Thursday, October 1, 2026, the three-day programme is designed both for complete beginners keen to learn the basics and for experienced rowers who are new to the Selwyn club. Participants must attend at least two days, offering a hands-on introduction to the sport, coaching staff, and fellow rowers from schools across the district. The camp costs $50 for all three days and provides an ideal, low-commitment opportunity to experience the
training environment before deciding on the full 2026/2027 season. For those who choose to sign up for the season afterwards, the $50 camp fee will be deducted directly from their annual membership. Students unable to make the camp dates can still register interest in the upcoming season by contacting the club directly. Registrations are open now at sporty.co.nz/viewform/527041. KIRWEE NETBALL PRIZEGIVING Year 5 - 6 Stars Most Improved: Georgia Usmar Player of year: Lexi Browne Year 5 – 6 Krystals Most improved: Isla Thompson Player of the year: Ella Thomas Year 7 - 8 Most improved: Elaina Watson Player of the year: Ava Gamlath Senior Player of the Year: Sam Adams Most Conscientious: Amy Rock Club Awards: Supporter of the Year: Brett Watts Coach of the Year: Ange Cawthray
Junior Player of the Year: Eden Watts Volunteer of the Year: Jordy Thompson Junior Volunteer of the Year: Ruby Shepherd Sportsman Trophy: Georgia Seaton MALVERN/SELWYN NETBALL PRIZEGIVING Malvern A: Most Improved - Peyton McDonald Most Conscientious - Chloe Crequer Player of the Year - Libby Roberts Malvern B: Most Improved - Ruby Lee Most Conscientious - Anzel Nel Player of the Year- Bella Shearer & Lilly Howe Malvern Masters Black: Most Conscientious - Rebecca Prattley Player of the Year - Rebecca Stark Malvern Masters White: Most Conscientious - Amy Falloon Player of the Year - Sam Adams Most Outstanding Team – Malvern Master Black (Winners of Masters 4)
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Friday 25th September 2026
PROTECT THE COMMUNITY THIS SUMMER On Tuesday, October 6, at 7:30pm in Sheffield Hall, the Sheffield Volunteer Fire Brigade will host an evening for residents from the Sheffield and Springfield areas. The event will provide tips on preparing for the upcoming summer fire season. With the likelihood of a strong El Niño event, the region could face a drier and windier summer, resulting in a heightened fire risk. Representatives from the Selwyn District Council, Central Plains Water, Fire and Emergency New Zealand, and the Sheffield and Springfield
brigades will be available to brigades update their records discuss fire preparedness. and assist them if they are Farmers are also encouraged to called to a property. provide a basic farm map and All information will be kept information about water confidential and used only by supplies, fuel storage, and the local brigades. hazardous-substance storage Everyone is welcome, and sites. This will help local supper will be provided. For further information, contact: Alan Mathewson: 027 353 1628 or Nev Croy: 021 650 554 GOLF RESUKLTS
HORORATA GOLF Results 15 September 2026 Competition Stableford & Top Dog C Gurney 39 S Gilmore 38 M Michael 38 J Whitaker 38 Men: I Palmer 39 J Morten 37 Nearest the Pin J Helmore Nett Eagles #11 A Harliwich
SANTA WILL BE BEHIND BARS IN DARFIELD! GREENDALE GOLF Have you been naughty or nice? Either way, Santa is coming to town and taking up residence behind bars! The Santa’s Grotto Committee is delighted to announce that Santa’s Grotto will be at the Darfield Jail on December 1618 and don’t worry Santa hasn’t been arrested for eating too many Christmas cookies! He’ll be there with his trusty elves, spreading plenty of Christmas cheer and making sure the little ones get a chance to visit the man in red. We are thrilled to have received generous funding from Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd, helping make this community Christmas event possible. Santa’s Grotto is proudly run by a team of community
volunteers, who are giving their time to help bring some extra Christmas magic to Darfield. And the Christmas fun doesn’t stop there! The Darfield Residents Association will have a raffle running to help raise funds towards the Santa Parade on December 19. Santa has already confirmed that he will be making an appearance at both events so there’s no escaping Christmas in Darfield this year! So, bring the family, bring your Christmas spirit, and come along to share some festive fun with Santa and his elves. After all, there’s nowhere quite like the Darfield Jail for putting a little Christmas magic behind bars.
Results 19 September 2026 Stroke Play Competition M Anderson 66 E Hawker 66 J Austin 69 L Barnett 70 A Youngman 70 K Nagayama 70 C Gordon 70 C Hewitt 70 Nearest Pins. # 3 C Gordon # 7 H Macphee # 9 S Roulston # 13 C Hewitt #17 M Anderson Mens Longest Drive G Hawker. Ladies Longest Drive V Fitzgerald. Ladies Longest Putt D Gibbs. Longest putt B Souness. Twos L Giles P Youngman H Macphee M Anderson M Billings D Rutter J Camp
PUBLIC NOTICES
PUBLIC NOTICES
PUBLIC NOTICES
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Friday 25th September 2026 CHURCH NOTICES
CHURCH NOTICES
CHURCH NOTICES
CATTERY
BUSINESS COACHING IS IT time to redesign your Life? Running a business shouldn’t feel this hard. I help local business owners fix t e a m a n d l ea d er s h i p problems without losing good CELEBRANT workers. Kieron McGhie Strategic People & ACCOUNTANTS Performance Coach Darfield. ARE your accounts taking up Confidential local coaching. valuable time you’d rather Phone 021 276 8311. spend growing your business BUSINESS CARDS or with your family? Let the team at Sterling Accountants handle your accounting and CHIMNEY CLEANING tax compliance—right here CARRS Chimney Cleaning. on your doorstep. Call AnnServicing the Selwyn district. Maree at Malvern Business $90 per chimney. Please ph Hub: 021 215 0981. Rodney on 03 324 2999 and leave a message. CHIM Chim. We'll sweep your log-burners flue, check the firebricks, baffles, air-tubes and controls. We're experts CARPET/WINDOWS on coal-ranges, also sweeping any sized open fire. We quote CARPET/Window Cleaning. CARPET and undertake repairs, flue 6-27 Sept 10am The Gorge Nursery Spring Tree Sale 479 Ashley Gorge Road, Oxford Thorough job, good price, extensions and install bird 24 Sept 3pm Malvern Community Board Meeting Darfield Library quick drying. Highly netting. Ph 021 939 113. 25 Sept Darfield Touch Jnr & Snr Registrations Close recommended. Please phone/ 25 Sept 7pm Opening Night of Abstracts and Alpine Rhythms Te Huanui Art Gallery text Robert anytime on 26 Sept - 29 Oct Abstracts and Alpine Rhythms Te Huanui Art Gallery COUNSELING 027 299 9599. 26 Sept 9am Malvern Anglican Parish Spring Fair Trintiy Church, Darfield RECEIVE valuable, professional CATTERY 26 Sept 9am Spring Plant Sale and Open Day - Seeds of Change 1141B Greendale Road support as you navigate 26 Sept 2:30pm An Afternoon with Rebecca Nelson DHS Hall life's challenges. Confidential 27 Sept 2am Day Light Savings - Clocks Forward an Hour servi ce wi th q ual i fi ed 27 Sept 10am Darfield Op Shop Open 4 Greendale Road, Darfield therapist, Lisa Mills. 27 Sept 12pm Terrace Station Hororata Part 2 Terrace Station 27 Sept 1pm Kirwee Bowling Try Out Day 40 High St, Kirwee Initial free 1/2 hour 27 Sept 4pm Oxford Working Men’s Club AGM 160 High Street, Oxford consultation. O27 814 0785. 27 Sept 4pm Gospel Services Glentunnel Community Centre DEADLINE 27 Sept 5pm St Andrews of the Glen, Glentunnel Reopening 28 Sept 12am Malvern Health Survey Closes 28 Sept 7:30pm Glentunnel Residents Committee AGM Glentunnel Hall 29 Sept 9:30-12:30 Weekly Malvern Cancer Support Clinic Darfield Library 29 Sept 10am Malvern News - Advertising Deadline - info@malvernnews.co.nz 30 Sept 10am Darfield Op Shop Open 4 Greendale Road, Darfield 30 Sept 9am Weekly Darfield Networkers Group - www.networkers.co.nz 30 Sept 11:30-12:30 Weekly Justice of the Peace Service Darfield Library 30 Sept 7:30pm Community Meeting with Selwyn Water Hororata Community Hall 30 Sept Darfield Art Week Entries Close 1 Oct 9:30am Darfield Community Outreach Darfield Library 3 Oct 11:30am Coalgate Bowling Club Opening Day 3014 Coaltrack Road 3 Oct 1:30pm Kirwee Bowling Club Season Opening 40 High St, Kirwee 10 Oct 10am Dunsandel Market Day 44 Hororata Dunsandel Road 10-18 Oct Darfield Art Week FIREWOOD & COAL FIREWOOD & COAL 12 Oct 7pm Darfield Rugby Club AGM Darfield Rugby Clubrooms 13 Oct 9am Swell Expo Lincoln Event Centre 13 Oct 7pm Selwyn Rugby Club AGM Selwyn Clubrooms 16 Oct Consultations Open For Selwyn's Draft Waste Management Plan 18 Oct Springfield Festival - Community Market and Classic Car Display 21 Oct Rolleston News - Advertising Deadline - info@malvernnews.co.nz 22 Oct 6pm Malvern Community Board Workshop Glentunnel Hall 22 Oct 7:30pm Rural Women - Meet the Candidates Evening DPS Hall 29 Oct Malvern Community Board Awards Evening 30 Oct MFVC Funding Applications Close
ADVERTISING DEADLINE:
10am Tuesday
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Friday 25th September 2026 FIREWOOD & COAL
LEASE LAND WANTED
PEST CONTROL
WILLOW wood, Dry. 4 and 8 LEASE land wanted. Selwyn Meter loads. Good clean area suitable for cattle burning wood. Free delivery. grazing. All sizes consider. Phone Reg 027 567 0720. Phone 027 781 1492.
STORAGE
WANTED
LOOKING for storage for your Boat or Caravan, we have shared, inside building, secure storage that may interest your needs. Enquires to 021 609 256 or kirweestorage@gmail.com. DISCOUNT Container Storage. For all your secure storage needs (secure site with camera). Cardale St, Darfield. Phone Phil 021 223 4553.
MORTGAGE ADVISOR
ARE you in need of a refinance, first home loan, buying a new home, investment property or a property development? I PLANTS FOR SALE deal with all the lenders, and I can get you the best deal to EMERALD FARM Native Plants, suit you. I have 30+ years of locally sourced. Lots of WANTED lending experience, and I am varieties. Call and see if we and reloading AMMUNITION local. I can come to you. have what you need. Based equipment. Powder Alan Lover Loan Market near Darfield. Please phone projectiles, presses etc. Any 027 2516644. Annie 027 370 2067. caliber rifle / shotgun. I bring the banks to you. Anything hunting related. Cash buyer. Please contact Rob 03 342 5885.
PLANTS FOR SALE
PLANTS FOR SALE
PAINTING/DECORATING
PAINTING/DECORATING
FOR SALE FERTILE Chicken Eggs. Heritage Breeds: Australorp, Dorking, Partridge Wyandotte. $50 doz. Phone Christine 03 318 6535.
GARDENING WINTER tidy-up. Lawn mowing and garden services. Large sections a specialty with catcher or side discharge. Hedge trimming and other garden maintenance services also available. Regular or one -off jobs. Based in Darfield and servicing Selwyn. Contact Grant on 021 619 165.
SITUATIONS VACANT
SITUATIONS VACANT
GRAZING WANTED
SCRAP METAL
TENANCY
WANTED! Amalgamated Scrap Ltd. Buying cars & farm machinery. Specialising in farm clean-ups. Best prices Rod McQuoid - buyer. Please ph 027 695 0480 or alternatively 0800 030 712.
RURAL Tenancy Inspections. Also providing Total Rural and Residential Property Ma nag emen t Sol u tion s. Please phone the office 03 745 7102 or email office@ruraltenancy.co.nz
WINDOW REPAIRS
WINDOWS REPAIRS
TRADES
TRADES
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Friday 25th September 2026
TRADES
WINDOW TINTING
TINT-A-WINDOW • Solar Protective films. • Fade UV block. • Heat Glare control. • Privacy. • Safety/Security. • Frosted films.
Free online quotes. Ph 0800 368 468. info@tintawindow.co.nz www.tintawindow.co.nz
0800 486 532
It’s the middle of winter and a Primary School teacher was helping one of her pupils put on his boots at the end of the day. He asked for help and she could see why. Even with her pulling, and him pushing, the li@le boots sAll didn't want to go on. By the Ame they got the second boot on, she had worked up a sweat. He then announced, "These aren't my boots". She bit her tongue, and resisted the temptaAon to say, "Why didn't you say so?" like she wanted to. Once again, she struggled to help him pull the ill-fiEng boots off his li@le feet. No sooner had they got the boots off when he said, "They're my brother's boots. But my mum made me wear 'em today". Now she didn't know if she should laugh or cry. But she mustered up what grace and courage she had leG to wrestle the boots BACK onto his feet again. Helping him into his coat, she asked, "Now, where are your mi@ens?" He said "I stuffed 'em in the toes of the boots".