Marlborough Weekly - 12 May 2020

Need new flooring

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED in Blenheim Marlborough? right here or in Marlborough Need New Flooring?

Call Nathan Birtles.

Call Nathan Birtles to come to you

• 100% locally owned and operated • Huge range of carpet, laminate, vinyl and vinyl planking

• Fly Buys and finance options to suit* BOOK AN IN-HOME CONSULTATION *see website for details

0508 227 738

harrisonscarpet.co.nz

Tuesday 12 May 2020

Butterfly rescue

Page 7

Tribute to goldenera rugby star

Page 17

Coronavirus patient pays tribute to medics’ care Paula Hulburt Editor

paula@marlboroughmedia.co.nz

Struggling to breathe as the virus attacked her lungs, Tamara Gillan tried not to panic.

Having arrived in Blenheim three days before lockdown she had fled the UK to be with her family in what she hoped would be a safer environment.

But in a cruel twist of fate, she became one of 49 people across Nelson Marlborough District Health board to be diagnosed with COVID-19.

Now mainly recovered, the grateful business owner is paying tribute to the team of healthcare workers who cared for her and her mother - well known Marlburian Toni Gillan, who doctors believe also had the virus.

“They were amazing. We were called every day and they went through our symptoms with us.

“It was quite psychologically draining and to hear their friendly voices was very reassuring,” Tamara says.

When her symptoms worsened and she laboured to breathe, the knowledge that help was just a call away was calming, she says.

“I was so breathless; like someone was standing on my chest.

“I knew that if I needed to, I could

CONTINUED PAGE 3

Tamara Gillan is grateful for the care she received after she was diagnosed with COVID-19. Photo: Supplied.

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED

www.marlboroughweekly.co.nz

2

TUESDAY 12 May 2020

News

Lockdown restrictions ease Alert level 2 will come into force from Thursday after New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Adern announced an easing in restrictions.

Three new cases of COVID-19 were revealed in New Zealand on Monday afternoon as the prime minister addressed the nation, revealing a phased roll out of alert level 2.

The total number of confirmed and probable cases as of Monday was 1497, with two people in Marlborough still being treated for the virus.

From Thursday, shops, cinemas, gyms and playgrounds will be open to the public with schools opening again on Monday next week.

100% locally owned and operated

People can also: Reconnect with friends and family, go shopping, or travel domestically, but should follow public

A coronavirus warning sign at Wairau Hospital. File photo. health guidance.

Physical distancing of two metres from people you don’t know when out in public is recommended, with one metre physical distancing in controlled environments like workplaces unless other measures are in place.

No more than 100 people at in-

door or outdoor gatherings.

Sport and recreation activities are allowed, subject to conditions on gatherings, contact tracing, and – where practical – physical distancing.

Public venues can open but must comply with public health measures.

Health and disability care services operate as normally as possible.

Businesses can open to the public but must follow public health guidance including in relation to physical distancing and contact tracing. Alternative ways of working encouraged where possible, for example remote working, shift-based working, physical distancing, staggering meal breaks, flexible leave.

It is safe to send your children to schools, early learning services and tertiary education. There will be appropriate measures in place.

People at higher-risk of severe illness from COVID-19 (those with underlying medical conditions, especially if not well-controlled, and seniors) are encouraged to take additional precautions when leaving home. They may work, if they agree with their employer that they can do so safely.

News

TUESDAY 12 May 2020

3

Tamara Gillan is a successful entrepreneur based in London. Photo: Supplied.

COVID-19 patient struggled to breathe FROM PAGE 1 go to the hospital. That was calming as in London there might not be ventilators or beds, but I knew here I would get really amazing care.”

Founder and chief at marketing agency Cherry London and of the WealthiHer network, entrepreneur Tamara opted to come to New Zealand to be with her parents.

She thought the air quality would be better in Marlborough and safer for her 5-year-old son who suffers from lung issues after he was born prematurely.

They arrived in Blenheim two weeks after Toni had vis-

ited them in London in early March.

But on Toni’s return to New Zealand, she got a call from the Ministry of Health’s tracing team.

A patient sitting in front of her on the flight back had tested positive for COVID-19.

While her test was negative, Toni’s case was treated as probable, especially when Tamara fell ill too.

“I’m not a good patient but I knew I had to treat it with the respect it deserves.

“It was like I was at the bottom of the ocean and couldn’t breathe.

“The Public Health team here have just been spectacular,” she

The Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter team were called to two medical emergencies in Picton last month. Latest figures show there were a total of 20 call outs for April, with crews attending accidents and emergencies across Nelson and Marlborough including in Port Underwood, Takaka and Clova Bay. The rescue chopper is a familiar sight over Blenheim, landing and taking off at the helipad behind the former nurses’ home. Photo: Paula Hulburt.

says.

“This is just heart breaking for the whole world and I feel hugely privileged to be here as people are just not getting the same level of testing in the UK. “They also checked with a paediatrician about my son and consulted an immunologist as well as finding things to help keep him amused.

“I’m so grateful.”

Tamara wants to especially acknowledge and thank Nelson Marlborough Health clinical director Stephen Bridgman, public health nurse Karen Aitken, medical officer of health Andrew Lindsay and health protection officer Evan McKenzie.

This week’s deals

Monday 11 - Friday 15 May 2020*

Now offering

Whole Beef Ribeye approx 2 - 3 kgs

23

$

.50

kg

Whole Beef Fillet approx 1 - 1.4 kgs

25

$

.50

kg

Pick-up and home delivery

Beef Mince 2 kg packs

23

$

.00 pack

Phone: (03) 578 4554 - Cnr Main Road Sth & Alabama Road, Blenheim Store pick-up hours: Mon - Fri 9:00 am - 4:00 pm, Sat: closed

Price list and order form at westmeat.co.nz

*while stocks last

4

News

TUESDAY 12 May 2020

Surge in students retraining at NMIT Matt Brown Would-be students looking to retrain in the wake of lockdown have been signing up to study online.

Staff at Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology have seen a hike in applications.

And hands-on lessons are expected to be prioritised as pandemic restrictions are eased later this week.

NMIT chief executive Liam Sloan says they have seen an increase in applications through their Blenheim campus from people retraining due to COVID-19.

“We have even seen an increase

in applications from individuals who have saw covid-19 as an opportunity to consider a new career pathway and are therefore considering re-training.

“We have had 14 Horticulture Level 3 students and 4 Viticulture and Winemaking degree students start this week. Most are career changers, wanting to study fulltime online,” Liam says.

“Irrespective of when we return to campus, we will continue our endeavour to ensure learners are not negatively impacted and will do all we can to support their timely completion as originally planned.”

It is too early to say if any courses

“We anticipate that some activities would resume under alert level 2 but practical components of programmes will be prioritised.

“Delivery at Woodbourne airbase for a selected number of students has resumed and follows strict and robust action planning and risk assessment guidance,” Liam says.

At the start of the month NMIT, as well as fifteen other tertiary educators, was absorbed by the New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology (NZIST) after government intervention to prevent other polytechs in the country going bust.

Blenheim’s NMIT campus on Budge Street is hoped to be back in use for practical lessons in lockdown level 2. Photo: Matt Brown. will be cancelled due to disruptions.

“These will be assessed, as per normal practice, in due course once we judge enrolment patterns,” Liam says.

“We are working with a number of stakeholders to look at new training opportunities which are

likely to result in the potential for some short programmes to be introduced.”

The final decision to reopen the campus is influenced by ministerial guidance.

Once given the go-ahead, practical courses will get underway first.

Pandemic brings hope to region’s homeless Matt Brown Reporter

matt@marlboroughmedia.co.nz

Marlborough’s lockdown response could help spell the end of the region’s homelessness problem.

More than 80 people housed in motels during the lockdown will be found accommodation as lockdown levels ease.

And industry bosses are hopeful that the “rapid response” of government and other local agencies will help resolve homelessness for those struggling to get off the streets.

Housing First Blenheim, Marlborough Civil Defence (CDEM) and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development (MHUD) joined forces to give travellers and homeless people a place to stay during

NEW!

OPEN FOR BUSINESS SCRATCH

* SCRATCH AND WIN !

HOT OFFER! * Celebrate our SAVE UPWIN TO60 Year AND !

Chainsaw Anniversary *

250

Celebrate our 60 * $ and you could winYear Chainsaw Anniversary back the purchase and couldchainsaw. win* priceyou of your back the purchase price of your chainsaw.

* Refer online at husqvarna.co.nz/t&cs/60years for full terms and conditions.

Valid 01/04/19-31/07/19.

* Offer available 01/04/20-31/07/20 at participating Husqvarna Dealers, while stocks last, on the following new model chainsaws: * for full terms and conditions. $Refer online at husqvarna.co.nz/t&cs/60years 100 OFF 535iXP / $150 OFF 550XP II, 562XP / $250 OFF 390XP, 395XP, 3120XP Valid 01/04/19-31/07/19.

120 MARK II VALUED 14" Bar - 38.2cc - 4.85kg AT OVER BONUS NEW! HOT 45L CHILLY BIN, $ * OFFER 120 CHAIN MARK & FILING II 385

299 $ 299*

* - 4.85kg 14" $ Bar - 38.2cc KIT HOT OFFER

lockdown.

Housing First team leader Justin Kemp says those accommodated in motels will continue to be supported to ensure they do not end up on the streets again.

“Sadly homelessness is often hidden, misunderstood or underestimated,” Justin says.

“It is a stark reminder when the simple message to ‘stay home’ isn’t even a possibility for some people.

“Housing First Blenheim had already made some progress towards resolving homelessness in Blenheim prior to the lockdown but we are buoyed by the rapid response of government agencies and other local organisations and are committed to continue working collaboratively with them to end homelessness in Blenheim.”

NEW!

120E MARK IIVALUED BONUS 16" Bar - 38.2cc - 4.85kg AT NEW! ROPE HOT BAG & $ * ® MARK II149 OFFER 120E X-CUT

349 $ 349*

16" $ Bar - 38.2cc* - 4.85kg CHAIN HOT OFFER

RRP $399 RRP 399

$ Offer available on the following Husqvarna Chainsaw models, valid 01/04/20 31/07/20 at participating Husqvarna Dealers, while stocks last: New Model 565-AT and 572 XP, with bonus Husqvarna 45L Chilly Bin, C85 X-CUT® Chain and filing kit. *

HOT OFFER!

135E VALUED BONUS 16" Bar -OFFER! 40.9cc - 4.6kg AT OVER HOT HOTCASE, CARRY $ * OFFER 135E X-CUT CHAIN & 215 ®

499 $ 499*

* - 4.6kg 16" 40.9cc $ Bar -KIT FILING HOT OFFER

RRP $449

Your local authorised Husqvarna Servicing Dealer:

RRP 449

$ Offer available on the following Husqvarna Chainsaw models, valid 01/04/20 31/07/20 at participating Husqvarna Dealers, while stocks last: New Model T540XP II (S93G X-CUT® Chain), T525 (S93G X-CUT® Chain), T535 iXP (SP21G Chain). *

Your local authorised Husqvarna Servicing Dealer: Your local authorised Husqvarna Dealer:

* Offer valid 01/04/19 - 31/07/19 at participating Husqvarna Servicing Dealers only, while stocks last.

* Offer valid 01/04/19 - 31/07/19 at participating Husqvarna Servicing Dealers only, while stocks last.

Housing First Blenheim have supported 17 people in 13 households in the motels contracted by MHUD. Marlborough CDEM has accommodated 67 people in motels for a range of reasons related to the current state of emergency.

But Marlborough CDEM welfare manager Catherine Coates says they do not know how many of the people housed by the organisation them were homeless prior to the COVID-19 emergency.

“We are working with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, the Ministry of Social Development and Housing First to ensure that people with long-term housing needs are appropriately supported once CDEM can no longer assist with accommodation.

WWW.HUSQVARNA.CO.NZ

WWW.HUSQVARNA.COM WWW.HUSQVARNA.CO.NZ

RRP $599 Offer available on the following Husqvarna Chainsaw models, valid 01/04/20 $ 435E II 31/07/20 at participating Husqvarna Dealers, while stocks last: New model (SP33G X-CUT® Chain), 440E II (SP33G X-CUT® Chain), 445E II (SP33G X-CUT® Chain), 450E II (SP33G X-CUT® Chain), 455R-AT (H25 Chain), 460 (H42 Chain). *

RRP 599

News

TUESDAY 12 May 2020

Free cheese win Wairau Hospital nurse Angela Wilks tries out a donation of Lynton cheese from Cranky Goat after emergency staff at Wairau Hospital were nominated for the tasty 1kg prize.

The local cheese company asked for online nominations of essential workers and had such a huge response they

y rl d a E ir ls b ia Ec sp

ended up giving away four prizes.

Community Care Pharmacy in The Warehouse won the main prize of 2kg Lynton cheese and gin from Elemental Distillers.

Staff from St John’s Ambulance and Blenheim Police Station also won a 1kg haul of cheese.

MP admits Twitter mistake Marlborough’s MP has been caught up in controversy online after seeming to back a social media comment insulting disabled people.

Kaikōura MP Stuart Smith took to social media platform Twitter on Thursday to praise a post which was seen by many to patronise the intellectually disabled.

He has since deleted the post which he shared with his 1463 followers and admitted he had made a mistake.

Posting to Twitter, former political advisor Hamish Price wrote in response to New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s plans for alert level 2. “…NZers are sick of being spoken to like we are 6-yearsold, intellectually disabled,

The since-deleted tweet MP Stuart Smith claimed to share without reading. Photo: Twitter/Screengrab. or a Labour Party member,” he tweeted.

The long serving National

MP quickly responded with a Tweet of his own, saying “Well said.”

Stuart told the Marlborough Weekly he had not read the five-line comment in full.

“I did not read the full text of the post before retweeting and when I realised my mistake, I deleted it.

“However, I did agree that the Prime Minister does give off a schoolteacher type persona which grates with a lot of people including me.”

Both Smith and Price were hit by an immediate backlash of objections with some saying it was sad to see a Marlborough MP agreeing with the derogatory comments.

But others came out in support after the comments were shared on Marlborough social media pages saying people were entitled to free speech.

5

Prices slashed for kiwis!

2 Berth with shower & toilet $

599 for 7 Days

4-6 Berth with shower & toilet $

999 for 7 Days

[ your ]

100% Nelson owned and operated

GOT a

Give us a call on

928 4121 NEWS STORY? 928 4121

or email paula@marlboroughmedia.co.nz

6

TUESDAY 12 May 2020

Advert

News

Butterfly rescue plan takes flight Paula Hulburt

Chrysalis rescued as a kindergarten closed for lockdown are emerging from their safe haven.

Thirteen caterpillars and 35 chrysalises were being looked after at Seymour Kindergarten in Blenheim when lockdown level 4 was announced on 23 March.

Determined to save the would-be butterflies, children helped move the insect pupa to a specially designed box.

Now the butterflies have been released, with some being found as far away as Seddon.

Teacher Rochelle Clamp says the idea began four years ago when a family gave a swan plant to the centre as a leaving present.

“From there, the learning and interest has increased so that now it has become a daily event with children taking part in the caring and raising of these beautiful creatures.

“Over the years we have planted more swan plants and this year we are hoping to build a butterfly enclosure where children and teachers can walk inside and see them in

Carson Walker admires a tagged butterfly. Photo: Supplied. their natural habit.

“Not only are the children learning about the life cycle of the Monarch butterfly, but they are also learning about the predators that they need to be protected from,” she says.

Rochelle kept the caterpillars and chrysalises safe at home while keeping her charges up to date on progress through social media.

Making the decision to move them was easy, she says.

“We knew that you are not sup-

posed to move the chrysalises once formed but this wasn’t an option in this case,” she says.

Two harakeke stalks were wedged through holes in the box, proving a safe hanging spot which could be easily transported.

“By carefully removing the silk thread holding the chrysalises we were able to tie them up using coloured wool onto the harakeke,” Rochelle says.

Members of the Monarch Butterfly NZ Trust, the kindergarten is taking part in their New Zealand-wide tagging programme.

Butterflies are tracked to find out more about their overwintering behaviour.

Fifty butterflies have been tagged this season and two have been discovered in Blenheim’s Witherlea area and two in a Seddon garden.

It’s been a wonderful educational process for the children, says Rochelle, “Even though there are huge changes that occur in our world the process of metamorphosis will go on with support of our kindergarten whanau.”

TUESDAY 12 May 2020

7

A person was treated for smoke inhalation at the scene of a campervan fire on Friday afternoon.

The Blenheim volunteer fire brigade attended the blaze at about 3.40pm near the intersection of Ida and Mary Street.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand shift manager Daniel Reilly says the fire was well involved when firefighters arrived at the scene.

He says St John paramedics treated one person at the scene for smoke inhalation. Photos: Matt Brown.

8

News

TUESDAY 12 May 2020

Unlawful hunters Welfare help crucial for region’s recovery Russ Smith Senior Community Constable

As you might expect, people who have no conscience when it comes to hunting without land-owner permission, or who shoot farm animals unlawfully, are also likely to have been out-and-about, hunting unlawfully while in breach of the COVID-19 restrictions.

Police have recently had a report of a seriously wounded sheep found on farmland next to the Kaituna-Tuamarina Road. The animal had been shot in the head, probably from the road, but it was still alive and left badly injured. It is unclear how long the sheep had been left injured, but it had to be put out of its misery by the farmer.

Police have also recently been investigating unlawful hunting activity in the upper Awatere Valley area.

This type of offending and any kind of unlawful hunting is not tolerated by the police in Marlborough. Police have a good relationship with our rural communities and regularly mount operations to identify and deter poaching or unlawful hunting.

Where there is evidence to support an investigation, police are proactive

Senior Community Constable Russ Smith. File photo. in pursuing the offenders and have initiated investigations and prosecutions on well over 100 unlawful hunters in the last few years.

Penalties for those convicted have included the confiscation of their hunting equipment, including firearms and ammunition, dog tracking collars, low-light and thermal imaging equipment. Defendants have faced average fines of around $5,000 in recent years. Police have then also commenced revocation of their firearms licence as well.

Like any investigation, the chances of a successful outcome are dramatically improved if anyone who becomes aware of unlawful hunting reports it immediately to police. The sooner it’s reported, the more likely police will catch up with those responsible. If the actions of the hunter are creating a risk to life or limb, always call police on 111.

A team tasked with helping Marlborough recover from the pandemic fall out are investing in welfare as a key part of social recuperation.

Members of The Economic Action Marlborough (TEAM) group are working on a response for the first phase of a vital recovery plan.

An extra $1.2 million of funding has been set aside from Marlborough District Council’s Emergency Events Reserve to boost community groups and facilities.

TEAM chair and Marlborough Deputy Mayor Nadine Taylor says council are putting a lot of resources into the community’s welfare needs.

“One of our great benefits as a region is our diverse and beautiful recreational spaces.

“Certainly, my own mental health improves, and my stress levels decrease with a walk on a beach or along one of our peaceful native bush walkways.

“Connecting with family, friends and my wider community helps me too, that’s why I

Deputy Mayor Nadine Taylor. Photo: Supplied. was a big supporter of council putting a lot of resources into the welfare needs of our community through supporting our community organisations,” she says.

On Thursday, council will consider an $865,000 package which includes support for both ‘buy local’ and ‘visit local’ campaigns.

The region will still be emerging from the full impacts of COVID-19 for two to three years, says Nadine.

“While supporting that recovery is the focus of the TEAM group and all of us in Marlborough, we should not lose sight of the opportunities to build a ‘new normal.’”

Nadine says she is confident the move will be supported by councillors and the entire community.

“TEAM has adopted a final scenario of ‘Reimagining Marlborough’ and I think we have a real chance to build in environmental and societal improvements in the way we do things.

“As for supporting the local economy, much of the answer lies in us helping where we can through our own local spending.

“Of course, we want local employers to hire Marlborough people as much as possible.

There is a wealth of talent right on our doorstep,” she says.

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT LTD | MREINZ

For the latest information about Council services during the Covid-19 response please go to

We currently have a high demand for available rental properties!

www.marlborough.govt.nz

OUR TEAM ARE WORKING FROM HOME. The Summit Property Management team are currently working from home and seeking properties for our list of waiting tenants. We can carry out live video property appraisals and provide information on our services, plus your first two months of management is on us! We are also able to do safe on-site inspections of our properties.

Visit summitrentals.co.nz for information and get in touch today.

Advert

TUESDAY 12 May 2020

9

10

TUESDAY 12 May 2020

Feature

Call to action to support local businesses Local businesses are looking for community support in the wake of the pandemic that closed them for weeks.

At the heart of the Marlborough community is the affection we all share for the region we call home and there is no better time to show some love for our local businesses by ensuring we shop locally.

The heart motif is a visual reminder to put our money where our hearts are; the place our families live and work, where our children go to school – a place we are all proud to call home.

As restrictions are gradually lifted from Thursday, more businesses are opening their doors or offering special delivery and click and collect services via websites and social media.

No matter what service you’re looking for or what you want to buy, we are lucky enough to enjoy an extensive range of top-class businesses right on our doorstep.

Let’s make the most of it.

At a time when cleanliness and sanitation are on everyone’s minds, the team at SteamCleanz are on hand to help put minds at rest.

From smaller at home jobs to bigger commercial tasks, the team will happily help locals protect what they hold dear at home and at work.

Perhaps more than ever, our homes are our safe havens and in these uncertain times, it’s reassuring to find that Nadia Thomas and Dianna Schulz at Summit are still on hand to provide the same professional service they pride themselves on.

In a quickly changing market they can help.

We are lucky enough in Marlborough to have a variety of businesses and services that have been built up over decades, they have been here for their clients and now is the time to repay that loyalty.

Since 2017, Adele Leask and husband Steve at OnFire Instal-

Cycleworld owner Brendon Clemett. Photo: Matt Brown. lations have been helping home and business owners with their domestic and commercial needs.

As temperatures lend a chill to the air, the experienced duo can help make your place warm and cosy for winter.

Heaven’s Above on Maxwell Road

is always warm and welcoming and offers an enticing meld of confidential spiritual guidance and therapies as well as a beautiful gift shop that’s been helping customers since 2005.

Looking after ourselves is important and so is keeping fit. As

lockdown restrictions ease, we can again travel further afield for exercise – great news for cyclists and no one understands that more than Brendon and Ange Clemett at Cycle World.

The couple are well known community supporters, donating bikes for raffles and school fundraisers.

Now they need the community to support them and shop local.

“It’s keeping our local economy going, the more they support us, the more we can support them.

“We are a family shop and our kids are involved in the sport, so it's not just about business but family and passion.

“We have got a bit going on around here, we have awesome recreational places that we can use, the new cycle paths will enable our business to grow so we can give back to the community.

See for yourself just how genuinely passionate this pair are about all things cycle related at their new premises on 2 Main Street.

STEAMCLEANZ - Roger Nicholls

CERISE - Theresa Smith

As the largest private cleaning company in Marlborough, SteamCleanz offers a range of highly recommended commercial and domestic cleaning services right across the region.

From a desk in entranceway of her beautifully stocked shop, Cerise owner Theresa Smith has been helping customers find the perfect purchase.

At a time when cleaning and sanitising matters more than ever, customers can be sure of peace of mind in these uncertain times, seven days a week with a range of adaptable hours to suit clients. SteamCleanz offers a specialised service for homes, education sites (preschools, primary schools, and colleges) as well as commercial buildings. A name synonymous with quality, the company enjoys an excellent reputation built on decades of experience.

The local business is at the forefront of innovation when it comes to eco-friendly cleaning services. Fast, efficient, and always available, the caring team offers a 100 per cent satisfaction guarantee on all their work. Owner and manager Roger Nicholls rightly takes pride in a team who always put their customers first; happy to help at any time with one-off cleans or a regular contract commitment.

For a professional cleaning service, turn to the specialists and get a free estimate online at steamcleanz.co.nz or by calling 03 573 8294 and help protect what matters.

Throughout alert level 3, shoppers were able to call on her expertise - choosing from an array of jewellery, scarves, bags, wall décor, clocks, photo frames, lamps, glass and tableware, cushions and throws. “We are lucky that we deal with a lot of great New Zealand companies.

They are really good at communicating and they have good stock of products that we need,” explains Theresa.

From Living Light candles, handmade in Golden Bay to iconic beauty brand, Linden Leaves Natural Skincare from Christchurch, the store’s alluring range is enticing both loyal customers and newcomers. The Cerise website is very popular, and clients have been quick to make the most of the convenient click and collect service.

Cerise is ready to open its doors again at alert level 2, and, as always, is sure to captivate with something different, unique and special.

Trading hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5.30pm - Saturday 10am to 2.30pm.

Feature

HEAVENS ABOVE - Darlene Keenan

To Cycle World owners Brendon and Ange, biking isn't so much a business but a lifestyle they live and breathe- and it shows.

HEAVENS SPIRITUAL GUIDANCE AND GIFT SHOP Life can be difficult at times so you have to know how to treat yourself, especially after those testing moments... ...There are many ways to meet your physical, emotional and spiritual needs if you would like to discover it you should visit “Heavens”, the spiritual guidance and gift shop.

“There is a lot of trauma in our community, all on different levels but I see the future very bright as long as people our mindful of the COVID rules we’ll get over all these challenges”. This is how Darlene Keenan sees the situation.

The owner of the spiritual wellbeing store Heavens has been in the community for 15 years, supporting people in need. She offers different therapies which includes personal guidance and healing, hands-on healing, counselling and readings (passed, present and future). At Heavens, you will also find a wide range of crystals, spiritual books, personal gifts.

Darlene and 3 others qualified therapists are happy to welcome you at the store located on 11 Maxwell Road, Blenheim. As massages and all healing therapies are really busy, booking is essential. Call 03-579 1032. Opening hours 10am – 4pm.

GEAR

OUR BRANDS COURSES

11

CYCLEWORLD - Brendon & Ange

The experienced local professionals have owned the popular local business since 2016 and are genuinely passionate about the broad range of services they offer.

From an extensive range of bikes for all ages to maintenance, repair and suspension tuning, their new premises on 2 Main Street offers a convenient hub of expertise all under one roof.

Choose from an array of stock and big names in bikes like Specialized, Giant and evinci, helmets, clothing, gear and even nutrition, confident that any help and advice you need is on hand in store.

With plenty of space, browsing in store is a real pleasure. With all repairs done on site, the highly reputable team can talk you through the process and advise on the best course of action.

Of course, they also love to talk about biking in general, so be sure to call in and discover firsthand what makes the Cycle World Team first in their field of expertise.

GEAR

TUESDAY 12 May 2020

LOCAL TRAILS

BIKES

BIKES WORKSHOP

HIRE

SUMMIT REAL ESTATE - Picton & Blenheim Real Estate today In times of uncertainty, it’s reassuring to know that Summit can still offer clients the same professional and reliable service they are renowned for.

Nadine Thomas and Dianna Schulz and their teams in Picton and Blenheim have been making their mark on the real estate industry for years. Their names are synonymous with trust and a level of unparalleled expertise. Passionate and driven, these dedicated agents have the skills and drive to help their clients navigate a changed real estate world.

Buying and selling is not an easy process, so in this current climate, it’s even more vital that you have an agent that understands the market and more importantly, your needs.

Whether you are searching for peace and serenity in beautiful Picton, or the ease of town life in Blenheim and surrounds, Summit salespeople have a wealth of expertise to help smooth the search Marlborough wide.

Summit salespeople are known for their impeccable knowledge of property management, subdivision, investment, finance, selling and finding real estate, to appraising property, negotiating, and understanding the power of a great team can help you reach your goals.

Listing or selling, the Summit team give you the certainty you need in a quickly changing market.

ONFIRE INSTALLATIONS

- Steve & Adele Leask

As temperatures drop, it’s time to look at ways to warm up your home or office this winter; and a fireplace offers a practical and attractive way to ensure your place is cosy and warm.

Getting a fire requires professional help for installation, cleaning, and repairs. For all those services you can lean on local family-run business OnFire Installation. No job is too small or too big for the friendly Blenheim team who cover all of Marlborough.

Since 2017, Adele Leask and her husband Steve have been offering a full domestic and commercial work service, from planning through to completion. The knowledgeable team can also help answer key questions ensuring you make the right decision for your home and family. From the right model to the right price, they will support you every step of the way with a professionalism that’s earned them an enviable reputation.

So, if you need to install a new fireplace, to clean your chimney or simply need some expert guidance, call OnFire Installations on 02108231468 - they’re always happy to help.

12

TUESDAY 12 May 2020

Feature

Hot auto tips for warmer weather 11x2 $185 +gst

You may think you have an exceptionally reliable car, however vehicles don't stay that way on their own. As with any piece of equipment or machinery, maintain and care for your vehicle and it will generally return the favour.

with the fundamentals like fluids, oil and water. High temperatures can also be hard on your battery – get it checked to ensure your car will last the distance.

• Check the condition and air pressure in all tyres, including the spare, to make sure they are roadworthy.

Weather is heating up Remember, heat is a tyre’s biggest - so is your car! enemy.

If you have a minor problem with • Replace ragged wiper blades, and your vehicle now, there’s a much make sure the wash reservoir tank is higher probability that it will devel- full and you’ve added proper cleanop into something more in warmer ing agents – not dishwashing liquid. temperatures.

• Check all your lights are workA car engine usually operates at ing. With longer daylight hours you around 95°C, depending on the may not use your lights very much, make and model. When that same so that blown bulb can go unnoJacks Tyres staff,with from left,family, Mark Scott, Hatfield vehicle is loaded your ticed –Rhyss until you need and it. Wayne Pattie. and camping gear, and is • Make sure your sun visors are dofriends crawling its way up a steep hill in ing the job; glare from the sun, ei30°C plus heat (if we're that lucky!), ther directly or from other vehicles, then this will be the time that prob- can blind you temporarily. lems may occur, so let's tackle ve- • If you are towing, ensure your hicle maintenance beforehand and towbar and braking capability is up prevent a breakdown. to the load you are hauling. Because of the strain towing can place on YOUR LOCAL REFERENCE Simple checks to keep your car, it’s vital your cooling and you safe,only saving youoftime As the point contact lubrication between systems you and as-conarethe in top and money: dition. phalt, tyres play a crucial role in ensuring your car is Consider a pre-trip inspection by safe to be driven, which thereforeDo means thatan they you have a trained technician; repairs can be should be Ask maintained conscientiously. more costly on the road. them emergency kit?

Overall conditions, pressure, tyre tread depth some to check things like the air condi- In warmer weatherare many New the points be checked tioning,ofcooling system,that driveneed belts, toZealanders take regularly. off into the back hoses and clamps, along At Jacks Tyres brakes, they take tyreand safety seriously and beyond, to escape thethey hustle

11x2 $185 +gst

JACKS TYRES & PERFORMANCE:

11x2 $185 +gst

11x2 $185 +gst

are committed to keeping you on the road.

11x2 $185 +gst

Being fully experienced, reliable, to make a permanent commitlocal, with great values are the ment to the Marlborough region most important qualities for Jack so invested in a property at 9 Main Mclauchlan who opened is tyre Street and went from a one person shop 20 years ago in Nelson. “We operation to three now. “Between are a 100% owned family com- the 3 local staff they have 95 years pany, As a husband and wife team in the tyre industry” he laughs. our own son and daughter work Experience and quality service are for us and consider our staff mem- definitely what makes Jacks Tyres bers are an extension of our fami- the best choice. To meet customly. We all have strong family values ers’ needs in the busy times, the and that is what we are all about” Blenheim team is backed up by he says. That is the reason why the Nelson staff. “We send one more Getting your car business checked isbefore theguys roadfrequently this summer Richmond based proudhitting or two over means from you will see less of this... to provide local staff, who uphold Nelson to assist them” explains local values, have local knowledge Mclauchlan. and are also NZQA trained and Catering to a range of drivers from qualified. throughout New Zealand, the Supplying any brand of tyre and team can handle everything from doing everything from tyres, the smallest to the biggest tyres. wheel alignments, mags and bat- “Continuously check your motor teries, Jacks Tyres has built a7x3vehicle is a key for keeping yourstrong reputation over the years. self safe so we welcome people to “After dealing with a lot of $185 peo- +gst come in to check tyres pressure ple from Blenheim in our Nel- and tyre conditions. We give them son store we decided the move to free advice and guidelines” says Blenheim was inevitable” explains Mclauchlan. So call Jacks Tyres Mclauchlan. today and find out what they can So four years ago, Jack and his wife do for you! opened there second store, and af- Jacks Tyres 9 Main Street Blenheter only a couple of years decided im. 03 578 1255

11x2 $185 +gst

News

TUESDAY 12 May 2020

13

Fate of Blenheim store hangs in balance Chloe Ranford Local Democracy Reporter The fate of Blenheim’s Smiths City hangs in the balance as the retail giant announces a restructure.

The furniture and electronics retailer has not yet identified which stores will close or how many staff members would be affected.

Bosses are due to decide after talks with 465 staff and the business’s building landlords.

Blenheim’s Smiths City building is the biggest in the Marlborough District Council’s portfolio, at 1800-square metres.

A Smiths City spokesman would not comment following the company’s announcement last week that its postpandemic restructure would likely cause some stores and employees to face the axe.

Council chief executive Mark Wheeler says while it was not appropriate to discuss individual tenancies, the council was providing tailored “generous relief ” to its leaseholders.

He says each business faces different challenges, with some needing extra stor-

Charles Riley of the Lions’ Club of Blenheim will be delivering telephone directories to households and commercial properties within the residential area of Blenheim. As the directories will no longer have a plastic covering, residents should check their letter boxes regularly in case of rain. Club members have safety procedures in place to help protect against COVID-19.

Photo: Supplied.

Smiths City look set to close some stores in a restructure. Photo: Chloe Ranford/ LDR age space, while others could keep working.

“The council is well aware that the economic impacts of the COVID-19 lockdown are very challenging for some businesses,” he says.

A council spokesman could not confirm if Blenheim’s Smiths City was one of the businesses receiving relief, due to privacy reasons.

Smiths City has been open for online sales of essential items at alert level four, but

sales had not been enough to make up for the significant impact on its business, staff say.

It is expected trading will open up slightly under alert level two.

Smiths City was founded in Christchurch in 1918 by Henry Cooper Smith, whose business the City Market auctioned grain, livestock and general goods.

It later specialised in new and used furniture and hardware.

Its website says the store has 29 outlets across New Zealand.

Last week the council announced a new $865,000 boost to Marlborough’s businesses by providing incentives such as free parking and al fresco dining in town centres. The package will go before councillors for approval on Thursday.

14

Sport

TUESDAY 12 May 2020

Sporting door begins to open peter@marlboroughmedia.co.nz

The prospect of seeing some action at Marlborough’s sporting venues before the end of June came a step closer to reality last week with the announcement of alert level two guidelines.

The Government have given the green light to the resumption of contact team sports under level two, providing certain tracing and hygiene measures are followed. Sport NZ issued a level two guideline for sporting codes on Thursday, clarifying what needs to happen if they want to resume when that status is reached.

Although training and competitive sport at community level can resume, Sport NZ’s message to the codes is “don’t rush back” until all protocols are in place, suggesting they must return “in a controlled manner”.

Gatherings must be restricted to a maximum of 100 people at a “single field or court”, citing that “a gathering includes spectators but not players, officials or support staff ”.

All venues and sporting facilities, including clubrooms and gyms, will also be able to open under level two, with coaching and personal training set to resume. All recreational boating and waterbased activities have also been given the green light, although “risky activities” are discouraged.

FOOTBALL Andrea Smith-Scott, general manager at Marlborough Football said her organisation was “really pleased with the announcement”.

“There are obviously a lot of new health and safety requirements we will be working through over the next few weeks, and other

N

S TA L L

ERVIC

AI

M

E SIG N

I

D

PPLY SU

E

STEM SY

N TAI

N

Reporter

S

parties that we need to consult before we can confirm a season date - for example, the council and other sporting codes to work in with for summer code crossover etc.”

Andrea said Marlborough Football will be opening up for trainings first. “It may not be exactly when the country goes in to alert level 2 but it will be close to that time.

“We need to make sure we have all contact tracing in place and we are confident we can give the Government a list of all people who will be on the fields at one time before trainings can commence, so our field booking process and team player registrations must be 100 percent.

“We will be giving at least four weeks of training lead-in time before the season starts, to give clubs time to re-confirm teams, players to adjust to regular physical activity again and for the association to have time to organise and implement new guidelines and produce draws.

She said no definite starting date had been suggested yet, but they were hoping for a mid to lateJune start.

“All skills programmes (football and futsal skills centres) will also re-start in level 2, again with new requirements.”

They are working through those at the moment, including discussions with Stadium 2000, the futsal venue. Registrations will be called for when health and safety protocols are in place.

Andrea added, “I want our members to rest assured that we are not going to be jumping back into this lightly.

“We take the health and safety of our players very seriously so things will be very different - no changing rooms open, no club-

Peter Jones

Marlborough football will be a step closer to starting at level two. room bar open – just to name a few.

“But we know we have a great supportive football community here in Marlborough who will all play their part in making this happen and making it a safe environment for all involved.”

RUGBY Tasman rugby chief executive Tony Lewis says his organisation has firm plans in place for a resumption of play.

The TRU propose a “rugby festival” of “controlled environment, pre-season games” for division one club teams, behind closed doors at both Lansdowne and Trafalgar Parks on June 6. This initiative is designed to trial the various return-to-play protocols required by the Government, before re-starting the division one rugby competition on June 13. Both dates are dependent on the Government moving to alert level 2 later this week.

The TRU put their proposal to its board on Monday night for signoff and will present it to the club delegates tonight.

Whether the division one competition will involve cross-over

matches with Nelson-based sides [Tasman Trophy] or just be three rounds of sub-union play, with semifinals and a final, has yet to be decided. A decision as to whether the first round of competition is played behind closed doors at Lansdowne and Trafalgar will also be made at the delegates meeting.

The TRU are concentrating on getting premier rugby up and running at the moment, with staff members currently looking at how division two and women’s rugby can be reactivated.

“We are looking at starting them pretty close to the same dates as premier but the first round may have to be played behind closed doors … we will work with the clubs and see what that looks like,” said Tony.

“With regards to JAB and age group, we are thinking that we will let this term pass through to the keeper and we will look at running all schoolboy, schoolgirl and JAB rugby in term three and also the term three holiday. That would give us a nine-week programme and also give the clubs a chance to get the teams organised.

“We want to trial all the testing and tracing procedures around senior rugby first due to the greater numbers at junior level.”

The shape of the 2020 University of Canterbury secondary schools First XV competition has yet to be decided, the TRU currently working with the Canterbury Rugby Union to come up with a workable format - especially given the complication of interregional travel.

Tony said he was very happy that a return to rugby was beginning to take shape. “I can’t wait to see the kids back playing rugby … it’s something for everyone to enjoy and good for our mental health.”

HOCKEY Hockey Marlborough administrator George Nation said that, following a discussion on Friday with all associations, they had identified key areas that they will need to address in the prepareto-play phase.

They are: hygiene and cleanliness, contract tracing, mass gatherings, hospitality and return-to-play protocols such as training versus competition, hockey specific rules and length of season.

“We are working closely with the other winter team sports … to ensure that we are aligned across the codes so that we can represent strongly as a sector in the return to play post COVID-19,” George said.

“Once we have our contract tracing sorted (which will be via QR code for everyone entering and exiting) and hygiene/cleanliness procedures in place we will be able to begin training.

“From there we will be able to work out teams, draws, start date etc, which will be further down the track after Queen’s Birthday Weekend.”

Sport

TUESDAY 12 May 2020

15

Sport NZ announces $25 million relief Peter Jones

Financial help is at hand for sporting clubs and regional organisations battling to stay afloat in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sport NZ has created a $25 million package to provide further short-term relief for organisations at all levels of sport and active recreation.

The funds have been made available through savings achieved from the reprioritisation of Sport NZ’s work programme in the wake of COVID-19, as well as the drawing down on cash reserves.

Thursday’s announcement follows an initial package of support for Sport NZ and High Performance Sport NZ partners announced in early April.

The second tranche of support announced last week has a focus on providing relief for struggling local and regional sport and recreation organisations. This relief will be provided via a $15m Community Resilience Fund, which opened on Monday, May 11.

“Play, active recreation and sport have a key role in main-

taining individual health and wellbeing, bringing our communities together and keeping these communities strong,” says Sport NZ CEO Peter Miskimmin.

“Clubs and regional organisations are the heartbeat of our sector but have been among the hardest hit by COVID-19, particularly through the loss of Class 4 gaming revenue and membership fees and they need support now more than ever,” he said. The Sport NZ Community Resilience Fund will be administered through New Zealand’s 14 regional

sports trusts. Eligible organisations can apply for a maximum of $1000 for clubs and $40,000 for regional bodies.

Also included in Sport NZ’s $25 million relief package are: a partner support fund ($6 million) to help Sport NZ and HPSNZ investment partners maintain critical roles and business functions which are at risk; an exceptional system support fund ($1 million) to protect key national organisations who are not normal recipients of Sport NZ investment and a physical activity fund ($3 million) to promote play,

active recreation and sport opportunities to those who most need it (e.g. people who are less active, disabled or live in high deprivation areas).

Further details on these three funds will be announced over the coming weeks.

More information on new $25 million short-term relief package and Sport NZ’s wider response to COVID-19 is available at sportnz.org.nz.

Funding applications can be made on the Sport Tasman website http://www.sporttasman.org.nz/funding/funding.

Download the Marlborough App free at

16

Sport

TUESDAY 12 May 2020

Nixon’s cricketing kindness rewarded Peter Jones

A selfless act of kindness has seen nine-year-old Nixon Herd named the Central District Cricket Association’s Supporter of the Year.

Nixon, formerly from Marlborough but now based in Christchurch with parents Keri and Grant Herd, auctioned his treasured autographed Cricket World Cup cricket bats to raise funds to help a gravely ill, six-year-old school friend travel to the USA to receive cancer therapy for a rare form of the disease.

Nixon’s willingness to put others before himself was recognised in last week’s 2019/20 CDCA seasonal awards, prompting CD CEO Pete de Wet to say, “Nixon is a passionate young cricket fan and aspiring cricketer whose selfless generosity assisted a young girl who sadly did not have long to live.

“He put himself out there and did all he could to help the team behind Nora Guise, inspiring us all with his commitment and empathy.”

Nixon’s connection with CD cricket began when he was just four, initially meeting the team at a Stags game in Nelson. The team’s media manager put him in contact with White Fern Sophie Devine, the pair meeting up at an international fixture in Nelson.

As Keri explains, the pair had plenty in common. “Nixon had

Nixon Herd in his room, which is decorated with CD memorabilia, including Ross Taylor’s bat, a prized possession. Photo: Supplied. been diagnosed with type-one diabetes, an autoimmune condition that Sophie also has, and she was amazing with him, they had a chat about testing and all things T1.

“Since then Nixon has been at every possible Stags game, which was recently made a bit harder when we moved to Christchurch in September, however his love for the Stags has only grown.

“His favourite is Ross Taylor, who he aspires to be like, not only because he’s a great player and plays all forms [of cricket] but in Nixon’s words ‘he’s a really nice guy who cares about people’.”

Last year Nixon and his Weedons Anacondas cricket got to meet Ross after being asked to appear

on WhatNow TV with Nora, a fellow pupil at his new school, Clearview Primary, who had been diagnosed with hepatoblastoma, cancer of the liver that occurs in 1 in 1 million.

“Nora and her family were raising funds to get her to Texas for CAR T-Cell therapy,” explained Keri.

“When we told Nixon we had had an email from his principal asking for help with donations of items that could be auctioned at a fundraiser that was being organised by the school, Nixon returned from his room with a cricket bat that he had won in 2015 during the World Cup. It was signed by the Black Caps and was his pride and joy but he said to us, ‘I love my bat but not

as much as Nora’s parents would love her’.

“So with that he made a video explaining what he was up too and we loaded the bat onto trademe.

There was a bidding war and Nixon’s bat sold for $3500. He also auctioned a Scotland bat and a 12th Man experience donated by the Canterbury Kings.

“All up Nixon raised around $4000, a huge effort for a then eight-year-old. The money raised from the auction and from many other people meant Nora’s family were able to leave for Texas on November 8.

“Ross Taylor heard about Nora’s situation and Nixon and made a video for him that was shown on What Now. He asked Nixon to come along to a training with his friends and there Ross gave him one of his own bats which was absolutely a highlight in Nixon’s life.

“On February 1 Nixon headed out to bat with one goal and that was to hit a six for Nora and he did, then later that morning we found out that Nora had passed away and he was heartbroken, not for himself, his main concern was for Nora’s mum and if she was going to be okay.”

Nixon plays for the Weedons Cricket Club and has had a top season, scoring his first half century (52*) in a warm-up match for the year seven Canterbury Country team, as a year four student with his own smaller version

of Ross’s bat.

He also took 7-7 with the ball in one of the last games of the season.

“His love for cricket is incredible,” said Keri. “It is made stronger by the input of the Stags and also the time put into him and support of Marlborough cricket’s ‘Artha’ (Prabodha Arthavidu) and also the Wairau Cricket Club for allowing him to play to his ability rather than his age.”

Living in Christchurch, Nixon is well aware that if he is to play rep cricket in the lower grades it will have to be for Canterbury teams, rather than his beloved CD, however he has long term plans, his mother reported with a smile.

“He has told us that he will go and live with family friends in Blenheim or move to Napier and live with Josh Clarkson or Lance [Hamilton, CD High Performance manager] so he can play for CD and then the Stags once he is in high school. He has it all planned out.”

A couple of other players with Marlborough connections were also recognised at the CD awards, which were held on-line.

Wicketkeeper batsman Ma’ara Ave was named Central Districts A player of the year, while Saffron Wilson, based in Nelson but a member of the well-known cricketing family from Marlborough, was voted CD under-19 women’s player of the year.

ki) CD A Player of the Year – Ma’ara Ave (Marlborough) Hawke Cup Player of the Year — Akash Gill (Whanganui) Chapple Cup Player of the Tournament — Arana Noema-Barnett (Manawatū) CD U19 Player of the Year (Men) — Jordan Gard (Taranaki) CD U19 Player of the Year (Women)

— Saffron Wilson (Nelson) CD U17 Player of the Year — Curtis Heaphy (Manawatū) CD Umpire of the Year — Glen Walklin (Hawke’s Bay) Scorer Recognition Award — Duncan Mitchell (Manawatū) and Bev Baker (Hawke’s Bay) CD Supporter of the Year — Nixon Herd

CENTRAL DISTRICTS CRICKET AWARDS 2019/20 Central Stags Dream11 Super Smash Player of the Year — Kieran Noema-Barnett (Hawke’s Bay) The Ford Trophy Player of the Year — George Worker (Manawatū) Plunket Shield Player of the Year — Willem Ludick (Nelson) Players’ Player of the Year — Dane Cleaver (Manawatū)

Player of the Year — Dane Cleaver (Manawatū) Central Hinds Dream11 Super Smash Player of the Year — Jess Watkin (Whanganui) Hallyburton Johnstone Shield Player of the Year — Hannah Rowe (Manawatū) Emerging Player of Year — Ashtuti Kumar (Manawatū)

Think Ahead Anga Whakamua Study online now Elevate your career by retraining or adding to your skill set.

Book a career conversation and we will work with you to discuss your goals, study options and how to fit study around your commitments.

Learn more at nmit.ac.nz/think-ahead

Players’ Player of the Year — Natalie Dodd (Taranaki) Player of the Year — Jess Watkin (Whanganui) Distinguished Achievement Award — Ross Taylor (100 Tests, 100 T20is, 100 NZ caps in all formats, NZ Test runs record) Special Award — Kate Baxter (Tarana-

Sport

TUESDAY 12 May 2020

17

‘Big Al’ at the heart of rugby’s golden era Peter Jones

Tributes have been flowing over the past week as Marlborough’s sporting fraternity come to grips with the loss of one of this province’s sporting icons.

Alan Sutherland, an inspirational figure during the Red Devils’ 1973-74 Ranfurly Shield rugby reign and the most-capped All Black to be selected as a Marlborough player, died in South Africa last week. The 76-year-old’s death was not COVID-19 related.

The powerhouse loose forward and lock wore the silver fern on 64 occasions and toured South Africa twice, in 1970 and 1976.

Although he played many games for New Zealand, only 10 were tests, his inability to string a long run of test appearances together coming down to untimely injuries and the fact All Blacks captains Brian Lochore and Andy Leslie both played in his preferred position.

After his second tour to South Africa Alan decided to stay and resided in the republic ever since.

Although he enjoyed plenty of success in the black jersey, Marlburians will best remember Alan as a block-busting loose forward for the formidable Red Devils.

He donned the red jersey in 109 games, often crashing through defences with the ball clasped in

one of his bucket-sized hands.

However, as well as possessing a power game the man known to fans as ‘Big Al’ was also very fit and skilful, as his success with the national champion Marlborough sevens side suggests.

His influence on the fortunes of that team and the shield side could not be underestimated, Alan’s presence and experience at the top level helping build the confidence that allowed the side to lift the Log o’ Wood from Canterbury in at Lancaster Park in July 1973.

Richard May, halfback in the 7374 Shield side, described him as “a bloody terrific player”.

“For a guy who only took [rugby] up at 17 he did pretty well.

“He had great physical strength and was an expert at scoring from five yard scrums. When we lost the Shield Alan didn’t play because he broke his thumb, but if he had played we would probably have won that game … we had about nine five yard scrums in the first half and I reckon he would have scored at least twice.

“He used to go really low with his head close to the ground and just bullock over.”

Richard said Alan was also very fit, recalling an occasion when he, Alan and David Neal [Red Devils’ flanker] were training by running around Waterlea racecourse. “We

Alan Sutherland charges through the Nelson Bays’ defence in 1973.

Photo: Supplied. did a few laps then decided to see how fast we could do one lap. David beat Alan by about two yards but they had covered the mile in just over five minutes.”

Also part of rugby folklore is the time Alan shore 50 sheep in the morning then fronted up for a key Shield defence against Nelson Bays in the afternoon, a situation unheard of at the top level nowadays. Richard said an intense will to win was another reason Alan went so far. “He just hated being beaten and that rubbed off on the team. He used to give us go-forward. There wasn’t much he couldn’t do. He turned to goalkicking and was good at that, he was good in the lineout … a very skilled allround player. Put it this way - if you had him in your team you had a big chance of winning.”

Injuries dogged Alan’s interna-

tional career. He played in the first test of the 1971 Lions series, interestingly just four days after turning out for Marlborough against the tourists, then broke his leg in a Blenheim charity match, ruling him out of the rest of the series.

Richard recalls another unfortunate occasion, in a Seddon Shield game against Nelson Bays in 1974, when Alan broke his thumb, ruling him out of the Shield defences.

“He had come back from Britain with a pair of shorts that had pockets in them. Some Nelson guy put one on him and he went to retaliate, but he caught his thumb in the pocket and broke it. That might have cost us the Shield.”

Following the 1976 All Blacks tour to South he set up home in

the republic, playing professionally for Rhodesia and then Witwatersrand University, both as a player-coach.

After four years on the rugby scene he was offered an opportunity to go farming and bought a farm 160km inland from Durban where he spent the past 40 years breeding racehorses, some achieving notable success on the track.

Alan was one of a trio of talented brothers, his older brother Ramon, captain of the Ranfurly Shield team, and 1976 Olympic Games rowing medallist Ivan.

Ivan said news of Alan’s death had come as a shock. “He had had a recent operation for bowel cancer but we thought he was recovering well. He has had top care over there … it’s just all so sad.”

Alan is survived by wife Vera and his four children, Karen, Natalie, Tarryn and Greg. A memorial service in Blenheim is planned when the COVID-19 situation relents.

Alan Richard Sutherland (1944-2020) All Black #670 - 1968-76 (All Black tests 10 – All Black non-test games 54) Captained the All Blacks three times.

Total All Black points 151 (12 in tests) NZ Sevens - 1973 NZ Juniors - 1966 Marlborough - 1962-76 (109 appearances) First class tries - 102

T h e c om p a n y b eh i n d

ONE DAY. TWO BUILDERS. FREE OF CHARGE. G i v i n g b a c k to th e h e r oe s i n ou r c om m u n i ty

www.ggcon st r uc t io n. co. n z @ge o rge g ut h r ie c o ns t r uc ti o n

Classifieds

Classifieds DEATH

DEATH

MOORES

BROWNLEE

Diana June &

CROSSLEY Neil Frederic

DEATH

MCDERMID Geoffrey Ronald (Geoff)

LIKE US ON Notice to all Advertisers: By placing your advertisement you agree with the terms and conditions of the Marlborough Weekly Ltd. Namely, payment by the 20th of the following month, or in the event of non payment, the recovery of any debt and its costs will be charged to the customer.

This includes all costs and commissions paid to a debt recovery service. Should you require any further information please phone the newspaper on 928 4121.

Peacefully passed away on the 3rd May 2020 in his 94th year, at Ashwood Retirement Village Blenheim, after a lengthy but patient struggle with dementia.

Much loved husband of Ailsa (deceased), father and father-in-law to Alister (Waipu), Ruth and Bruce Macdonald, Craig and Kathie (Blenheim), much loved grandfather to Antonia, Jack and Olivia; James and Jo and Oliver; Scott and Anna, Sarah and George, and Kate and Richard and his 6 great grandchildren. The family would very much like to thank and acknowledge the special staff in the Oaks ward who so faithfully attended to Geoff over numerous years. At Geoff’s request a private cremation will be held and later, his internment at the family cemetery in Sawyers Bay Dunedin, returning to the city he never really left. Messages c/- McDermid Families 76 Hammond Road RD 1 Blenheim, or www. cloudybayfunerals.co.nz.

CLOUDY BAY FUNERAL SERVICES BLENHEIM F.D.A.N.Z.

PERSONAL

Diana passed away at the Ashwood Retirement Village, Blenheim on 2 May 2020. As per Di’s wishes a private cremation has been held. Her family wish to express their sincere thanks to the neighbours and friends for the friendship and support shown to her, especially in recent times.

Neil passed away at Marlborough Hospice, Blenheim on 17/12/2019. As per Neil’s wishes a private cremation has been held. His family wish to express their sincere thanks to neighbours and friends for the friendship and support shown to him especially in recent times.

We also wish to thank all the nursing staff at Ashwood Retirement Village for their loving care. In lieu of flowers a donation to St John’s Ambulance, PO Box 467, Blenheim 7240 would be appreciated. Messages to www.cloudybayfunerals.co.nz.

‘May your memories bring you peace’ CLOUDY BAY FUNERAL SERVICES BLENHEIM F.D.A.N.Z.

DEATH

PRESTON David Wayne

Died peacefully at home on Sunday May 3, 2020.

Cherished husband of Cherie, brother of Alan and Bev, brother-in-law of Peter and Trudi, uncle of his nieces and nephews. A private cremation has taken place.

Respectfully cared for by

Advertise your personal notice here. Ph 928 4121

FDANZ Tel 03 578 4719. www.sowmans.co.nz

FOR SALE

SITUATIONS VACANT

Advertise your wanted notice here. Ph 928 4121

Advertise your situations vacant here. Ph 928 4121

Sylvia Rose

Died peacefully at Springlands Lifestyle Village on Saturday May 2, 2020. Cherished wife of the late Robert. Dearly loved mother and mother-in-law of Louise and Ray Patchett, Mark and Janet Brownlee. Adored grandmother of John and Amanda, Nan-nan of her great grandchildren. Messages may be sent to 6 Birchwood Avenue, Blenheim 7201.

A private cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at a later date.

Respectfully cared for by

FDANZ Tel 03 578 4719. www.sowmans.co.nz

DEATH

WOOD

Valerie Clemens (Val) Died peacefully at home in Springfield, on Monday April 6, 2020. Aged 75 years. Dearly loved wife and best friend of Bryan, her devoted husband since August 14, 1971. Only child of Miriam (nee Adams) and Norman Douglas of Blenheim. Missed by her relatives and friends. For those who wish, you are welcome to leave a tribute for Val at www.sowmans.co.nz and clicking on ‘Hugs from Home’. Messages may be sent to PO Box 56, Springfield, Canterbury 7649. A private interment took place on Wednesday May 6 at Fairhall Cemetery, Blenheim. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date.

Respectfully cared for by

CLASSIFIED DEADLINE - 5PM FRIDAY

PH 928 4121

summa@marlboroughmedia.co.nz

Your

Weekly Puzzles

Puzzle 2254 1

2

© Gemini Crosswords 2012 All rights reserved

3

4

5

9

6

7

8

19

20

10

11

12

13

14

16

17

15

18

21

22

23

25

26

27

28

Clues

Across 1 Transitory (7) 5 Tolerate (7) 9 Lie heavy upon (7) 10 Brutish (7) 11 Banish (5) 12 Exaggerate (9) 13 Ruthless self-interest (3,3,3) 15 Inexperienced (5) 16 A celestial body (5) 18 Caught in the act (3-6) 21 Right of possession (9) 24 Middle East republic (5) 25 Place of refuge (7) 26 State of unrest (7) 27 Arrange (7) 28 Feign (7)

Down 1 Go ahead (7) 2 Young tree (7) 3 Graceless (9) 4 Zest (5) 5 Covered with water (9) 6 Desert watering place (5) 7 Living (7) 8 Henry VIII’s court painter (7) 14 Little-known competitor (4,5) 15 Victorian British premier (9) 16 Thwarted (7) 17 Social conduct (7) 19 Long-lasting (7) 20 Cul-de-sac (4,3) 22 Proportion (5) 23 To erect (3,2)

SuDoKu 8

9 1 7

24

428 Hard

2 9 5

4 6

4

2 1

3 4 9 2 6 1

3 1 4

9 Answers next week

7 FDANZ Tel 03 578 4719. www.sowmans.co.nz

4 7 8 3 5 6 2 9 1

1 2 5 8 7 9 4 3 6

6 9 3 1 2 4 5 7 8

3 1 9 5 6 8 7 4 2

8 5 6 2 4 7 9 1 3

7 4 2 9 3 1 8 6 5

9 3 7 6 8 5 1 2 4

5 6 1 4 9 2 3 8 7

2 8 4 7 1 3 6 5 9

Puzzle 2253

SITUATIONS VACANT

21

TUESDAY 12 May 2020

SuDoKu 428 Easy

TUESDAY 12 May 2020

Last weeks solutions

18

C L I P P E R

U B Y M P R R O D O U C O U T P P L E R X E N T S R S T A

I S U A R V P E Y T O O F F D G U R A R N D

M T

B A G R E S Y C B O N A C E C I T E

S R T U E M B P L E E I N C O I N G

G P E P R I S O D D I C E S R C A F R C B E

I P E S A A I S A L T I L A C E N M E N T M C O M B L O U L A R I O I E N D N I A T E N

22

Trades & Services

TUESDAY 12 May 2020

TUESDAY 12 May 2020

Trades&Services ADVERTISING

AIR CONDITIONING

BUILDER

THE HEAT PUMP, AIR CONDITIONING & VENTILATION SPECIALISTS

Qualified Licenced Builder No job too big or small If you need it built, I can get it done!

Painting also included

MARLBOROUGH’S AUTHORISED DEALER

COMPUTER

Craig Burney

Burney Builders

1 Freswick St, Blenheim Ph 578 0030 www.martella.co.nz

021 748 927

ELECTRICAL

ELECTRICAL

burneybuilders1@gmail.com

Your reliable sparkY

For all your electrical needs We service all commercial kitchen & laundry equipment Local agent for Starline Dishwashers

For domestic, commercial & industrial work requiring a qualified & experienced electrician…

Don’t waste Call Geoff Don’t Don’t waste waste your weekend, Ph: 579 4445 0212 734 298 your your weekend, weekend, Green Acres can MAINTENANCE Green Green Acres Acres take care ofcan it.can Don’t waste www.cmelectrical.co.nz

LAWNS

Ryan Lawnmowing • Renwick • Blenheim • Picton

022 322 6515 ryan.oconnell0@gmail.com

Free Quotes Gold Card Discounts

take take care care ofof it.it.

Don’t Don’t waste waste your weekend, • Lawn &weekend, Garden your your weekend, can • Green Lawn • Lawn & Acres Garden & Garden Maintainence Green Green Acres Acres can can Maintainence Maintainence take care of it.

• Regular Service take take care ofService it. of it.

• Regular •care Regular Service

19

PH 928 4121

hello@marlboroughmedia.co.nz

CARPET

Need newAND flooring LOCALLY OWNED OPERATED

CARPET

COMPUTER

in Blenheim Marlborough? right here or in Marlborough Need New Flooring?

Call Nathan Birtles.

Call Nathan Birtles to come to you

• 100% locally owned and operated • Huge range of carpet, laminate, vinyl and vinyl planking • Fly Buys and finance options to suit*

BOOK AN IN-HOME CONSULTATION *see website for details

0508 227 738

harrisonscarpet.co.nz

FLOORING

GATES

LABOUR HIRE

PAINTER/DECORATOR

PAINT & PANEL

Tasman Flooring Carpet & Vinyl Installation Free Measure & Quote Restretching Repairs Floor Preparation 36 years experience

Phone Andy

022 369 3150 PAINTER

Merv Scott ecorating Ltd D PAI I NG INTING & DECORAT

Residential & Commercial Exterior, Interior Finishing Airless Spraying • Repainting • Wallpapering • Renovations • Decorating Brush Application • Maintenance • Finishing

•• Winter Lawn &Garden Garden tidy up

• Winter Garden Garden tidy up tidy up •Maintainence End of Lease •••Winter Lawn •& Lawn Garden & Garden •of End Lease of Lease •End Regular lawns & maintenance Maintainence Maintainence • Regular • Regular lawns lawns & maintenance & maintenance tidy up up up tidy ••tidy Regular Service •• Free Regular • Regular Service Service Free Quotes Quotes • Free Quotes

• End Lease • End of• of Lease End of Lease tidy upup tidy up tidy

Find out more or visit: Find out call more call or visit: Find out more call or visit:

0800 0800 803 803 200 200 0800 803 200

Ph: 021 669 666 Office: 573 7944

Find outout more Find out call more or visit: call or visit: Find more call or visit:

www.greenacres.co.nz www.greenacres.co.nz 0800 0800 803 803 200200

www.greenacres.co.nz 0800 803 200

www.greenacres.co.nz www.greenacres.co.nz

PEST CONTROL

Creating a Pest Free Environment Residential & Commercial Pest Control

Roger Abernethy Qualified Technician Urban Pest Management (3) PMANZ Ant Specialist

(03) 572 7268

abernethypestcontrol.co.nz

www.greenacres.co.nz

PEST CONTROL

WINTER G IS COMIN

PLUMBING

SOLAR

WASH

TREE SERVICES

SOLAR MADE EASY

MARLBOROUGH

Use the Marlborough Sun to lower your power bills and pay off the system on your rates*

• House Washing • Commercial Building Washing • Roof Washing • Gutter & Driveway Cleaning • Moss & Mould Treatments

*terms and conditions apply

SP

www.igeneratesolar.co.nz 0800 745 400

AL ROOF MOLD AND MOSS REMOVAL

ECI

0221 326 947 brad@washrite.co.nz

20

TUESDAY 12 May 2020

Advert